Harrison High School is excited about the new Digital Learning Act and will once again be offering Distance Learning Classes. We are very proud to extend these opportunities to our students. During the 2015-2016 school year, we have more than 75 students taking 20 different classes. Some of the classes are for college credit, some are for AP credit, some are for regular classes and some are for credit recovery.
We are offering distance learning courses through Virtual Arkansas and Arkansas Tech University. This is an excellent opportunity for students to earn both college and high school credit will still in high school. What makes it even more exciting for us to offer these courses is that these courses are tuition-free. They only require either a textbook purchase or rental, which can often be under $50.00 per course.
We are informing you of this opportunity early because this program is based on a first-come, first-served basis, and our paperwork as a school district must be submitted no later than March 2nd. Due to the fact that these courses are based on a first-come, first-served basis, we hope to register as many Harrison High School students as possible, but we cannot guarantee placement.
Before enrolling a student in these courses, we ask parents to visit with their child to determine whether the student is ready to put forth the amount of effort to take a college-level course. In addition, since this is a distance learning course, the course will be computer-based, and your child will be using this platform daily. The college professor will meet with the students weekly to discuss concepts and the course, but the professor will be off-campus and will be instructing through a computer delivery system. We had students that completed a course this past year, so we feel it is a good opportunity, but we want parents and students to know going in that these courses do differ than having a teacher in front of the student daily. There will be, however, a facilitator in the room while students are taking these courses to help with any technical problems or to coordinate activities with the college professor.
If you believe your child would benefit from these courses, please contact Mr. Rance King, one of our counselors. We will know if your child has been selected later on this semester, and we will give you information on how to obtain a textbook and inform you of any other matters about the courses then.
Arkansas Virtual High School
Online classes for 2016-2017
Classes are offered on a first come-first serve basis. Seating is limited. Cost is only the book.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT 534040 AP CALCULUS AB MAY BE OFFERED FOR WEIGHTED CREDIT
TERM: YEAR CREDIT: 1 This course will focus on Functions, Graphs, and Limits; Asymptotic and unbounded behavior; Continuity as a property of functions; the concept of the derivative; Derivative at a point; Derivative as a function; Second derivatives; Applications of derivatives; Computation of derivatives; Interpretations and properties of definite integrals; Applications of integrals; Fundamental Theorem of Calculus; Techniques of anti-differentiation; Applications of anti-differentiation; Numerical approximations to definite integrals. This course is considered a fifth high school math course and should be taken after successful completion of Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II and Pre-Calculus with Trigonometry.
517030 AP ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND COMPOSITION MAY BE OFFERED FOR WEIGHTED CREDIT
TERM: YEAR CREDIT: 1 This AP course in English Language and Composition engages students in becoming skilled readers of NONFICTION prose written in a variety of periods, disciplines, and rhetorical contexts and in becoming skilled writers who compose for a variety of purposes. This course emphasizes the development and use of critical thinking skills. Both their writing and their reading should make students aware of the interactions among a writer's purposes, audience expectations, and subjects as well as the way generic conventions and the resources of language contribute to effectiveness in writing. The college composition course for which the AP English Language and Composition course substitutes is one of the most varied in the curriculum.
517040 AP ENGLISH LITERATURE AND COMPOSITION MAY BE OFFERED FOR WEIGHTED CREDIT
TERM: YEAR CREDIT: 1 This course is designed to comply with the curricular requirements described in the AP English Course Description. This course emphasizes the development and use of critical thinking skills. Students will be reading at an accelerated pace and writing on a weekly basis. American and British poetry and literature will be the emphasis of study throughout the course. Students must be willing to sacrifice several hours a week to this course in order to succeed. This course is designed to introduce students to the rigor and expectations of the college level English course.
570020 AP UNITED STATES HISTORY MAY BE OFFERED FOR WEIGHTED CREDIT
TERM: YEAR CREDIT: 1 This challenging course is designed to provide a college-level experience and prepare students for the AP exam in early May. Over two 18 week semesters, the students are engaged in a wide variety of activities, with substantial emphasis on interpreting documents, writing analytical essays, and mastering factual content. Woven into the chronology of the course are the key themes of American History. Issues of American identity, diversity, religion and culture are examined. Economic transformations, the development of politic institutions and reform movements are evaluated. War, slavery, and demographic changes are assessed. Globalization and environmental issues are analyzed. These themes appear consistently in the course as the student journeys through broader course topics such as colonial and antebellum life, civil war and reconstruction, the gilded age and on to modern America.
572010 AP UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT & POLITICS MAY BE OFFERED FOR WEIGHTED CREDIT TERM: YEAR CREDIT: 1 This is a college level course designed to give the student an analytical perspective of government and politics in America. Course content will begin with foundations of United States Government, progress into an analysis of political beliefs and why Americans behave as they do and the impact of the media. This course includes an intensive focus on the four government institutions, followed by a study of civil rights and civil liberties in America, their evolution through judicial interpretation and the evolving role of the 14th amendment on American’s civil rights and liberties. The course will culminate with a breakdown of how public policy is created and the linkages between the political process, political parties, interest groups and elections. The course requires familiarity with the various institutions groups belies, and ideas that constitute U.S. politics. Students will gain knowledge through a variety of theoretical perspectives and explanations.
571020 AP WORLD HISTORY MAY BE OFFERED FOR WEIGHTED CREDIT
TERM: YEAR CREDIT: 1 The AP World History course will develop students' knowledge and understanding of global historical events, processes and interactions between civilizations and societies. Students will prepare for the rigors of college coursework, and the AP World History Exam. The AP World History course uses a skills-based thematic approach organized by historical periods with reoccurring themes. Historical thinking skills are taught throughout the course using the context and content of world history themes and overlapping, approximate time periods. This is only available to juniors and seniors this year.
CONCURRENT CREDIT COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
ARKANSAS TECH UNIVERSITY FALL 2015
ALL OF THE COURSES ARE FOR CONCURRENT CREDIT. A 3 CREDIT HOUR COLLEGE COURSE EQUALS ONE HIGH SCHOOL CREDIT.
Classes are available to high school students who meet the admission requirements and prerequisites for Virtual Arkansas and ATU, as well as prerequisites for the specific course. Cost for you is only the textbook. Seating is limited.
519930 COMPOSITION I - CONCURRENT CREDIT ENGLISH 11
TERM: FALL CREDIT – COLLEGE: 3 HIGH SCHOOL: 1 A review of grammar, introduction to research methods, and practice in writing exposition using reading to provide ideas and patterns. Note: A grade of C or better must be earned to satisfy the general education requirement of English/Communication. Prerequisites: ACT scores of 19 in Reading and English or comparable Compass or PLAN scores; English 10.
519940 COMPOSITION I - CONCURRENT CREDIT ENGLISH 12
TERM: FALL CREDIT – COLLEGE: 3 HIGH SCHOOL: 1 A review of grammar, introduction to research methods, and practice in writing exposition using reading to provide ideas and patterns. *Note: A grade of C or better must be earned to satisfy the general education requirement of English/Communication. Prerequisites: ACT scores of 19 in Reading and English, or comparable Compass or PLAN scores; English 10.
539900 COLLEGE ALGEBRA - CONCURRENT CREDIT BEYOND ALGEBRA II
TERM: FALL CREDIT - COLLEGE: 3 HIGH SCHOOL: 1 Exponents and radicals, introduction to quadratic equations, systems of equations involving quadratics, ratio, proportion, variation, progressions, the binomial theorem, inequalities, logarithms, and partial fractions. Note: A grade of C of better must be earned in this course if being used to satisfy the general education mathematics requirement. Prerequisites: Algebra II, Geometry, ACT Math score of 19, ACT Reading score of 19 (or comparable Compass, or PLAN scores).
579910 WORLD CIVILIZATION I - CONCURRENT CREDIT WORLD HISTORY
TERM: FALL CREDIT - COLLEGE: 3 HIGH SCHOOL: 1 The history of humanity from prehistoric times to the sixteenth century. Prerequisites: ACT scores of 19 in Reading and English or comparable Compass or PLAN scores.
579920 AMERICAN HISTORY I - CONCURRENT CREDIT AMERICAN HISTORY
TERM: FALL CREDIT - COLLEGE: 3 HIGH SCHOOL: 1 The study of the development of the American nation to the Civil War and Reconstruction Era. Prerequisites: ACT scores of 19 in Reading and English or comparable Compass or PLAN scores. ARKANSAS TECH UNIVERSITY SPRING 2016 ALL OF THE COURSES ARE FOR CONCURRENT CREDIT. A 3 CREDIT HOUR COLLEGE COURSE EQUALS ONE HIGH SCHOOL CREDIT
514000 SPEECH - CONCURRENT CREDIT ORAL COMMUNICATION
TERM: SPRING CREDIT – COLLEGE: 3 HIGH SCHOOL: 1 Fundamentals of composition, delivery, and logical reasoning. Effective utilization of basic visual aids will be included. Prerequisites: English 10; ACT scores of 19 in Reading and English or comparable Compass or PLAN scores.
519930 COMPOSTION II- CONCURRENT CREDIT ENGLISH 11
TERM: SPRING CREDIT – COLLEGE: 3 HIGH SCHOOL: 1 A continuation of Composition I with readings in poetry, fiction, and drama. Prerequisites: A grade of “C” or better must be earned in Composition I; ACT scores of 19 in Reading and English or comparable Compass or PLAN scores. Note: A grade of C or better must be earned in each of the two composition courses used to satisfy the general education requirement of English/Communication.
519940 COMPOSITION II - CONCURRENT CREDIT ENGLISH 12
TERM: SPRING CREDIT - COLLEGE: 3 HIGH SCHOOL: 1 A continuation of Composition I with readings in poetry, fiction, and drama. Prerequisites: A grade of “C” or better must be earned in Composition I; ACT scores of 19 in Reading and English or comparable Compass or PLAN scores. Note: A grade of C or better must be earned in each of the two composition courses used to satisfy the general education requirement of English/Communication.
539900 COLLEGE ALGEBRA - CONCURRENT CREDIT BEYOND ALGEBRA II
TERM: SPRING CREDIT - COLLEGE: 3 HIGH SCHOOL: 1 Exponents and radicals, introduction to quadratic equations, systems of equations involving quadratics, ratio, proportion, variation, progressions, the binomial theorem, inequalities, logarithms, and partial fractions. Note: A grade of C of better must be earned in this course if being used to satisfy the general education mathematics requirement. Prerequisites: Algebra II, Geometry, ACT Math score of 19, ACT Reading score of 19 (or comparable Compass, or PLAN scores).
579910 WORLD CIVILIZATION II - CONCURRENT CREDIT WORLD HISTORY
TERM: SPRING CREDIT - COLLEGE: 3 HIGH SCHOOL: 1 The history of humanity from the sixteenth century to the present. Prerequisites: ACT scores of 19 in Reading and English or comparable Compass or PLAN scores.
579920 AMERICAN HISTORY II - CONCURRENT CREDIT AMERICAN HISTORY
TERM: SPRING CREDIT - COLLEGE: 3 HIGH SCHOOL: 1 The study of the development of the American nation since the Civil War and Reconstruction Era. Prerequisites: ACT scores of 19 in Reading and English or comparable Compass or PLAN scores. Regular classes online. Cost is only the book. Seating is limited.
COMPUTER SCIENCE - ESSENTIALS OF COMPUTER PROGRAMMING
TERM: YEAR CREDIT: 1 Essentials of Computer Programming is a course for students with no formal computer programming experience. Students will spend the majority of time coding to solve real-world problems in a collaborative environment. The course focuses on developing computational thinking, refining problem-solving skills, and applying key programming concepts. Throughout the course, students will use developmentally appropriate and accurate terminology when communicating about technology. Essentials of Computer Programming does not require additional Arkansas Department of Education approval.
696000 ACT PREP
TERM: FALL AND SPRING CREDIT: .5 The goal of ACT Prep is for all students to achieve a composite score of at least "19" on the ACT, to be unconditionally admitted to their college or university of choice. Students may also improve their ACT scores and qualify for more financial assistance. To personalize the ACT focus area for students, after a school registers students for the ACT Prep course, Virtual Arkansas will contact the school regarding student placement. If a student has already taken the ACT, Virtual Arkansas will work with the school to place the student in the focus areas that may improve the student’s ACT score the next time the test is taken. Schools will have the flexibility to place a student in one focus area the first nine-weeks and in a different focus area for the second nine weeks. For example, a student may be enrolled in the Mathematics focus area the first nine-weeks and move into the Scientific Reasoning and Data Analysis focus area for the second nine-weeks. A student may also spend the entire semester in the English Reading and Grammar focus areas. Or a student may enroll in the English Grammar focus area the first nine-weeks and Scientific Reasoning and Data Analysis the second nine-weeks. To receive the ½ unit of credit, a student must remain in the course for the full semester. Students may earn up to 1 unit by completing all four focus areas, either in one semester or during the full academic year. The course is designed to comply with all the curricular requirements of the American College Testing Program (ACT)
410000 ENGLISH 9
TERM: YEAR CREDIT: 1 Students take a journey through important concepts–the Unknown, Equality, Identity, Opportunity, and Understanding–to learn the foundations of communication and analysis. In each unit of the course, students explore a variety of STEM-related literature, including genre fiction, poetry, non-fiction, and speeches. Through the study of this writing, students hone their own skills in communication and analysis. To facilitate engagement and academic responsibility, students are encouraged to make choices at different points in the course. Most notable is the novel unit, in which students must select their book from a list of titles available. This practice gives ownership to the student and places each learner in a position to develop a deeper appreciation of reading.
Prerequisite: only if repeating the course.
411000 ENGLISH 10
TERM: YEAR CREDIT: 1 English 10 is taught using a variety of literary works: novels, plays, non-fiction, poetry, and short stories. Within the study of literature, students will learn to write various modes of discourse. This will include writing analytical, evaluative and reflective essays. Speaking, the study of grammatical conventions and vocabulary development are an integral part of the course.
Prerequisite: only if repeating the course.
412000 ENGLISH 11
TERM: YEAR CREDIT: 1 In this English course, the writing and insights of authors throughout our history are collected in the fast-paced pages of The Virtual Times. Students gain an appreciation of American literature and the ways it reflects the times in which it was written. They discover how people thought and lived and wrote about their experiences. Students are also asked to observe, investigate, and report on stories of today. The goal is for students to be thorough, accurate, and compelling in their writing.
Prerequisite: only if repeating the course.
413000 ENGLISH 12
TERM: YEAR CREDIT: 1 Students explore the world of big ideas in English 12, where they choose which path they will travel first while exploring highly engaging thematic units. Each path guides students through a series of literary pieces, allowing students to analyze the political, social, economic, and cultural messages of the time as well as the relevance of the literary works to the world students live in today. Each path revolves around a central theme. The works in the course span a period of over 1000 years and have been written by authors who share common ideas but use a variety of literary genres to express their views. Whether it is the dramatic ending of a play or the colorful images in a verse of poetry, the words of these authors give students a new understanding of the world around them. As students travel down each path, they create authentic pieces that engage them in higher-level learning and provide them with a greater understanding of literature and its connection to the world.
Prerequisite: only if repeating the course.
430000 ALGEBRA I
TERM: YEAR CREDIT: 1 Algebra I is the foundation and the skills you’ll acquire in this course contain the basic knowledge you’ll need for all your high school math courses. Students will be using algebra to solve hundreds of real-world problems. There are hands-on labs to make the numbers, graphs and equations meaningful. Upon completion, students will possess the skills and strategies for solving real-world applications in sports, travel, business and health.
432000 ALGEBRA II
TERM: YEAR CREDIT: 1 This course builds on knowledge and skills gained from Algebra 1. Starting with a review of basic algebra, students will travel through systems of equations, factoring, radical and quadratic equations in the first segment. In the second segment, students will venture into the realms of polynomial functions, rational equations, exponential and logarithmic relations, landing at sequences and series. This course allows students to learn while having fun. Interactive examples help guide students’ journey through customized feedback and praise. Prerequisite: Algebra I and only if repeating the course.
431000 GEOMETRY
TERM: YEAR CREDIT: 1 Geometry has been used by man since the beginning of time. The ancient pyramids are based on geometrical design. Geometry is everywhere, not just in pyramids. Engineers use geometry to build highways and bridges. Artists use geometry to create perspective in their paintings, and mapmakers help travelers find things using the points located on a geometric grid. Throughout this course, students travel a mathematical highway illuminated by spatial relationships, reasoning, connections, and problem solving.
Prerequisite: Algebra I and only if repeating the course.
480000 HEALTH AND WELLNESS
TERM: FALL AND SPRING CREDIT: .5 Each day hundreds of decisions are made, including important decisions that have a huge impact on personal life. Making good decisions is a whole lot easier for those who have the correct information before making those decisions. Being equipped with correct information will empower students to manage real issues, like quality nutrition, substance abuse, coping with stress, and sexual abstinence. Good health is both mental and physical. Making good decisions starts with knowing the facts, understanding the consequences, and having the confidence to choose well.
420000 BIOLOGY
TERM: YEAR CREDIT: 1 The Biology course guides students through the study of living and non-living systems and how they interact with one another. This course will be a unique opportunity for students to successfully complete Biology in an on-line, interactive environment. Students explore the world they live in by posing questions and seeking answers through scientific inquiry. Discovery takes place through observation and data collection. The students will be introduced to the structure, function, diversity, and evolution of living matter. This is a course with real relevance. It encourages curiosity and provides opportunity for students to work on hands on lab activities and develop relationships through collaboratively learning. Engaging in the study of biological science broadens the picture of the world around us. This is a high school biology course designed to meet common core standards.
421000 CHEMISTRY
TERM: YEAR CREDIT: 1 Chemistry is rigorous and students will be challenged. Students will need to have 6-10 hours per week designated for study to be successful. It is designed as an interactive, 21st century course. Topics include the composition, properties, and changes associated with matter and their applications. This course is designed to serve as a foundation for the study of Chemistry at the university level. The utilization of scientific inquiry, web 2.0 tools, interactive experiences, higher order thinking, collaborative projects, real world application through labs and a variety of assessments all aid the student in ultimately demonstrating a vast understanding of the importance of Chemistry in the world around them; enabling them to apply these properties to their everyday lives.
424020 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
TERM: YEAR CREDIT: 1 The Environmental Science course is designed to investigate the role of humans in their environment. Students develop a knowledge base about their biological and physical environment. This information leads to exploration of human dependence on, technological control over, and interactions with the environment. Emphasis is placed on sustaining resources and making informed choices concerning environmental issues. Some of the topics addressed in this course include energy and nutrient cycling through ecosystems, the biomes of the world, water resources and pollution, air pollution, land use and urbanization, energy resources and use, waste management, population growth, biodiversity, and sustainability.
423000 PHYSICAL SCIENCE
TERM: YEAR CREDIT: 1 This course is designed as an interactive, 21st century course focusing on basic physics and chemistry. Topics include forces and motion, energy through waves, electricity and magnetism, the matter around us, chemical bonding and reactions. This course is designed to serve as a foundation for the study of the physical sciences. The utilization of scientific inquiry, web 2.0 tools, interactive experiences, higher order thinking, collaborative projects, real world application through labs and a variety of assessments all aid the student in ultimately demonstrating a vast understanding of the importance of the physical and chemical properties of the world around them; enabling them to apply these properties to their everyday lives.
472000 CIVICS
TERM: FALL AND SPRING CREDIT: .5 In Grades K-8, students receive a strong foundation in civics and government. The focus of Civics is the application of civic virtues and democratic principles and investigation of problem solving in society. This course provides a study of the structure and functions of federal, state, and local government. Civics also examines constitutional principles, the concepts of rights and responsibilities, the role of political parties and interest groups, and the importance of civic participation in the democratic process.
474300 ECONOMICS
TERM: FALL AND SPRING CREDIT: .5 In Grades K-8, students receive a strong foundation in economics. One-semester Economics for Grades 9-12 emphasizes economic decision making. Students will explore the interrelationships among consumers, producers, resources, and labor as well as the interrelationships between national and global economies. Additionally, students will examine the relationship between individual choices and the direct influence of these choices on occupational goals and future earning potential.
474400 PSYCHOLOGY
TERM: FALL AND SPRING CREDIT: .5 Psychology is a social studies elective course that introduces students to the science of behavior and mental processes. It includes an overview of the history of psychology as well as an opportunity to study individual and social psychology and how the knowledge and methods of psychologists are applied to the solution of human problems. The content of this course includes human development; biological bases of behavior; sensation and perception; learning, memory, and cognition; behavior patterns; and psychological disorders and their treatments. This course focuses on practical everyday application of the content.
470000 UNITED STATES HISTORY SINCE 1890
TERM: YEAR CREDIT: 1 In Grades 5-8, students receive a strong foundation in United States History from pre-colonialism through the Progressive Era, allowing United States History Since 1890 to focus in greater depth on the effects of changing culture, technology, world economy, and environment, as well as the impact of global conflicts on contemporary society in the United States. The desired outcome of this course is for students to develop an understanding of the cause-and-effect relationship between past and present events, recognize patterns of interactions, and understand the impact of events in the United States within an interconnected world. United States History Since 1890 examines the emergence of the United States as a world power to the present. Students will examine the political, economic, geographic, social, and cultural development of the United States of America from the late nineteenth century into the twenty-first century. United States History Since 1890 references the eras and time periods from The National Center for History in the Schools.
471000 WORLD HISTORY SINCE 1450
TERM: YEAR CREDIT: 1 In Grade 6, students study world history from the beginnings of human civilization through 1500 CE, correlating civics/government, economics, and geography to the historic eras. World History 9-12 provides an in-depth study of the history of human society from Era 6: Emergence of First Global Age 1450-1770 to Era 9: Contemporary World since 1945. World History is designed to assist students in understanding the human condition, how people and countries of the world have become increasingly interconnected across time and space, and the ways different people view the same event or issue from a variety of perspectives. This course develops an understanding of the historical roots of current world issues, especially as they pertain to international/global relations. It requires an understanding of world cultures and civilizations, including an analysis of important ideas, social and cultural values, beliefs, and traditions. Knowledge of past achievements and failures of different peoples and nations provides citizens of the 21st century with a broader context within which to address the many issues facing our nation and the world. World History references the eras and time periods from The National Center for History in the Schools.
We are offering distance learning courses through Virtual Arkansas and Arkansas Tech University. This is an excellent opportunity for students to earn both college and high school credit will still in high school. What makes it even more exciting for us to offer these courses is that these courses are tuition-free. They only require either a textbook purchase or rental, which can often be under $50.00 per course.
We are informing you of this opportunity early because this program is based on a first-come, first-served basis, and our paperwork as a school district must be submitted no later than March 2nd. Due to the fact that these courses are based on a first-come, first-served basis, we hope to register as many Harrison High School students as possible, but we cannot guarantee placement.
Before enrolling a student in these courses, we ask parents to visit with their child to determine whether the student is ready to put forth the amount of effort to take a college-level course. In addition, since this is a distance learning course, the course will be computer-based, and your child will be using this platform daily. The college professor will meet with the students weekly to discuss concepts and the course, but the professor will be off-campus and will be instructing through a computer delivery system. We had students that completed a course this past year, so we feel it is a good opportunity, but we want parents and students to know going in that these courses do differ than having a teacher in front of the student daily. There will be, however, a facilitator in the room while students are taking these courses to help with any technical problems or to coordinate activities with the college professor.
If you believe your child would benefit from these courses, please contact Mr. Rance King, one of our counselors. We will know if your child has been selected later on this semester, and we will give you information on how to obtain a textbook and inform you of any other matters about the courses then.
Arkansas Virtual High School
Online classes for 2016-2017
Classes are offered on a first come-first serve basis. Seating is limited. Cost is only the book.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT 534040 AP CALCULUS AB MAY BE OFFERED FOR WEIGHTED CREDIT
TERM: YEAR CREDIT: 1 This course will focus on Functions, Graphs, and Limits; Asymptotic and unbounded behavior; Continuity as a property of functions; the concept of the derivative; Derivative at a point; Derivative as a function; Second derivatives; Applications of derivatives; Computation of derivatives; Interpretations and properties of definite integrals; Applications of integrals; Fundamental Theorem of Calculus; Techniques of anti-differentiation; Applications of anti-differentiation; Numerical approximations to definite integrals. This course is considered a fifth high school math course and should be taken after successful completion of Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II and Pre-Calculus with Trigonometry.
517030 AP ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND COMPOSITION MAY BE OFFERED FOR WEIGHTED CREDIT
TERM: YEAR CREDIT: 1 This AP course in English Language and Composition engages students in becoming skilled readers of NONFICTION prose written in a variety of periods, disciplines, and rhetorical contexts and in becoming skilled writers who compose for a variety of purposes. This course emphasizes the development and use of critical thinking skills. Both their writing and their reading should make students aware of the interactions among a writer's purposes, audience expectations, and subjects as well as the way generic conventions and the resources of language contribute to effectiveness in writing. The college composition course for which the AP English Language and Composition course substitutes is one of the most varied in the curriculum.
517040 AP ENGLISH LITERATURE AND COMPOSITION MAY BE OFFERED FOR WEIGHTED CREDIT
TERM: YEAR CREDIT: 1 This course is designed to comply with the curricular requirements described in the AP English Course Description. This course emphasizes the development and use of critical thinking skills. Students will be reading at an accelerated pace and writing on a weekly basis. American and British poetry and literature will be the emphasis of study throughout the course. Students must be willing to sacrifice several hours a week to this course in order to succeed. This course is designed to introduce students to the rigor and expectations of the college level English course.
570020 AP UNITED STATES HISTORY MAY BE OFFERED FOR WEIGHTED CREDIT
TERM: YEAR CREDIT: 1 This challenging course is designed to provide a college-level experience and prepare students for the AP exam in early May. Over two 18 week semesters, the students are engaged in a wide variety of activities, with substantial emphasis on interpreting documents, writing analytical essays, and mastering factual content. Woven into the chronology of the course are the key themes of American History. Issues of American identity, diversity, religion and culture are examined. Economic transformations, the development of politic institutions and reform movements are evaluated. War, slavery, and demographic changes are assessed. Globalization and environmental issues are analyzed. These themes appear consistently in the course as the student journeys through broader course topics such as colonial and antebellum life, civil war and reconstruction, the gilded age and on to modern America.
572010 AP UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT & POLITICS MAY BE OFFERED FOR WEIGHTED CREDIT TERM: YEAR CREDIT: 1 This is a college level course designed to give the student an analytical perspective of government and politics in America. Course content will begin with foundations of United States Government, progress into an analysis of political beliefs and why Americans behave as they do and the impact of the media. This course includes an intensive focus on the four government institutions, followed by a study of civil rights and civil liberties in America, their evolution through judicial interpretation and the evolving role of the 14th amendment on American’s civil rights and liberties. The course will culminate with a breakdown of how public policy is created and the linkages between the political process, political parties, interest groups and elections. The course requires familiarity with the various institutions groups belies, and ideas that constitute U.S. politics. Students will gain knowledge through a variety of theoretical perspectives and explanations.
571020 AP WORLD HISTORY MAY BE OFFERED FOR WEIGHTED CREDIT
TERM: YEAR CREDIT: 1 The AP World History course will develop students' knowledge and understanding of global historical events, processes and interactions between civilizations and societies. Students will prepare for the rigors of college coursework, and the AP World History Exam. The AP World History course uses a skills-based thematic approach organized by historical periods with reoccurring themes. Historical thinking skills are taught throughout the course using the context and content of world history themes and overlapping, approximate time periods. This is only available to juniors and seniors this year.
CONCURRENT CREDIT COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
ARKANSAS TECH UNIVERSITY FALL 2015
ALL OF THE COURSES ARE FOR CONCURRENT CREDIT. A 3 CREDIT HOUR COLLEGE COURSE EQUALS ONE HIGH SCHOOL CREDIT.
Classes are available to high school students who meet the admission requirements and prerequisites for Virtual Arkansas and ATU, as well as prerequisites for the specific course. Cost for you is only the textbook. Seating is limited.
519930 COMPOSITION I - CONCURRENT CREDIT ENGLISH 11
TERM: FALL CREDIT – COLLEGE: 3 HIGH SCHOOL: 1 A review of grammar, introduction to research methods, and practice in writing exposition using reading to provide ideas and patterns. Note: A grade of C or better must be earned to satisfy the general education requirement of English/Communication. Prerequisites: ACT scores of 19 in Reading and English or comparable Compass or PLAN scores; English 10.
519940 COMPOSITION I - CONCURRENT CREDIT ENGLISH 12
TERM: FALL CREDIT – COLLEGE: 3 HIGH SCHOOL: 1 A review of grammar, introduction to research methods, and practice in writing exposition using reading to provide ideas and patterns. *Note: A grade of C or better must be earned to satisfy the general education requirement of English/Communication. Prerequisites: ACT scores of 19 in Reading and English, or comparable Compass or PLAN scores; English 10.
539900 COLLEGE ALGEBRA - CONCURRENT CREDIT BEYOND ALGEBRA II
TERM: FALL CREDIT - COLLEGE: 3 HIGH SCHOOL: 1 Exponents and radicals, introduction to quadratic equations, systems of equations involving quadratics, ratio, proportion, variation, progressions, the binomial theorem, inequalities, logarithms, and partial fractions. Note: A grade of C of better must be earned in this course if being used to satisfy the general education mathematics requirement. Prerequisites: Algebra II, Geometry, ACT Math score of 19, ACT Reading score of 19 (or comparable Compass, or PLAN scores).
579910 WORLD CIVILIZATION I - CONCURRENT CREDIT WORLD HISTORY
TERM: FALL CREDIT - COLLEGE: 3 HIGH SCHOOL: 1 The history of humanity from prehistoric times to the sixteenth century. Prerequisites: ACT scores of 19 in Reading and English or comparable Compass or PLAN scores.
579920 AMERICAN HISTORY I - CONCURRENT CREDIT AMERICAN HISTORY
TERM: FALL CREDIT - COLLEGE: 3 HIGH SCHOOL: 1 The study of the development of the American nation to the Civil War and Reconstruction Era. Prerequisites: ACT scores of 19 in Reading and English or comparable Compass or PLAN scores. ARKANSAS TECH UNIVERSITY SPRING 2016 ALL OF THE COURSES ARE FOR CONCURRENT CREDIT. A 3 CREDIT HOUR COLLEGE COURSE EQUALS ONE HIGH SCHOOL CREDIT
514000 SPEECH - CONCURRENT CREDIT ORAL COMMUNICATION
TERM: SPRING CREDIT – COLLEGE: 3 HIGH SCHOOL: 1 Fundamentals of composition, delivery, and logical reasoning. Effective utilization of basic visual aids will be included. Prerequisites: English 10; ACT scores of 19 in Reading and English or comparable Compass or PLAN scores.
519930 COMPOSTION II- CONCURRENT CREDIT ENGLISH 11
TERM: SPRING CREDIT – COLLEGE: 3 HIGH SCHOOL: 1 A continuation of Composition I with readings in poetry, fiction, and drama. Prerequisites: A grade of “C” or better must be earned in Composition I; ACT scores of 19 in Reading and English or comparable Compass or PLAN scores. Note: A grade of C or better must be earned in each of the two composition courses used to satisfy the general education requirement of English/Communication.
519940 COMPOSITION II - CONCURRENT CREDIT ENGLISH 12
TERM: SPRING CREDIT - COLLEGE: 3 HIGH SCHOOL: 1 A continuation of Composition I with readings in poetry, fiction, and drama. Prerequisites: A grade of “C” or better must be earned in Composition I; ACT scores of 19 in Reading and English or comparable Compass or PLAN scores. Note: A grade of C or better must be earned in each of the two composition courses used to satisfy the general education requirement of English/Communication.
539900 COLLEGE ALGEBRA - CONCURRENT CREDIT BEYOND ALGEBRA II
TERM: SPRING CREDIT - COLLEGE: 3 HIGH SCHOOL: 1 Exponents and radicals, introduction to quadratic equations, systems of equations involving quadratics, ratio, proportion, variation, progressions, the binomial theorem, inequalities, logarithms, and partial fractions. Note: A grade of C of better must be earned in this course if being used to satisfy the general education mathematics requirement. Prerequisites: Algebra II, Geometry, ACT Math score of 19, ACT Reading score of 19 (or comparable Compass, or PLAN scores).
579910 WORLD CIVILIZATION II - CONCURRENT CREDIT WORLD HISTORY
TERM: SPRING CREDIT - COLLEGE: 3 HIGH SCHOOL: 1 The history of humanity from the sixteenth century to the present. Prerequisites: ACT scores of 19 in Reading and English or comparable Compass or PLAN scores.
579920 AMERICAN HISTORY II - CONCURRENT CREDIT AMERICAN HISTORY
TERM: SPRING CREDIT - COLLEGE: 3 HIGH SCHOOL: 1 The study of the development of the American nation since the Civil War and Reconstruction Era. Prerequisites: ACT scores of 19 in Reading and English or comparable Compass or PLAN scores. Regular classes online. Cost is only the book. Seating is limited.
COMPUTER SCIENCE - ESSENTIALS OF COMPUTER PROGRAMMING
TERM: YEAR CREDIT: 1 Essentials of Computer Programming is a course for students with no formal computer programming experience. Students will spend the majority of time coding to solve real-world problems in a collaborative environment. The course focuses on developing computational thinking, refining problem-solving skills, and applying key programming concepts. Throughout the course, students will use developmentally appropriate and accurate terminology when communicating about technology. Essentials of Computer Programming does not require additional Arkansas Department of Education approval.
696000 ACT PREP
TERM: FALL AND SPRING CREDIT: .5 The goal of ACT Prep is for all students to achieve a composite score of at least "19" on the ACT, to be unconditionally admitted to their college or university of choice. Students may also improve their ACT scores and qualify for more financial assistance. To personalize the ACT focus area for students, after a school registers students for the ACT Prep course, Virtual Arkansas will contact the school regarding student placement. If a student has already taken the ACT, Virtual Arkansas will work with the school to place the student in the focus areas that may improve the student’s ACT score the next time the test is taken. Schools will have the flexibility to place a student in one focus area the first nine-weeks and in a different focus area for the second nine weeks. For example, a student may be enrolled in the Mathematics focus area the first nine-weeks and move into the Scientific Reasoning and Data Analysis focus area for the second nine-weeks. A student may also spend the entire semester in the English Reading and Grammar focus areas. Or a student may enroll in the English Grammar focus area the first nine-weeks and Scientific Reasoning and Data Analysis the second nine-weeks. To receive the ½ unit of credit, a student must remain in the course for the full semester. Students may earn up to 1 unit by completing all four focus areas, either in one semester or during the full academic year. The course is designed to comply with all the curricular requirements of the American College Testing Program (ACT)
410000 ENGLISH 9
TERM: YEAR CREDIT: 1 Students take a journey through important concepts–the Unknown, Equality, Identity, Opportunity, and Understanding–to learn the foundations of communication and analysis. In each unit of the course, students explore a variety of STEM-related literature, including genre fiction, poetry, non-fiction, and speeches. Through the study of this writing, students hone their own skills in communication and analysis. To facilitate engagement and academic responsibility, students are encouraged to make choices at different points in the course. Most notable is the novel unit, in which students must select their book from a list of titles available. This practice gives ownership to the student and places each learner in a position to develop a deeper appreciation of reading.
Prerequisite: only if repeating the course.
411000 ENGLISH 10
TERM: YEAR CREDIT: 1 English 10 is taught using a variety of literary works: novels, plays, non-fiction, poetry, and short stories. Within the study of literature, students will learn to write various modes of discourse. This will include writing analytical, evaluative and reflective essays. Speaking, the study of grammatical conventions and vocabulary development are an integral part of the course.
Prerequisite: only if repeating the course.
412000 ENGLISH 11
TERM: YEAR CREDIT: 1 In this English course, the writing and insights of authors throughout our history are collected in the fast-paced pages of The Virtual Times. Students gain an appreciation of American literature and the ways it reflects the times in which it was written. They discover how people thought and lived and wrote about their experiences. Students are also asked to observe, investigate, and report on stories of today. The goal is for students to be thorough, accurate, and compelling in their writing.
Prerequisite: only if repeating the course.
413000 ENGLISH 12
TERM: YEAR CREDIT: 1 Students explore the world of big ideas in English 12, where they choose which path they will travel first while exploring highly engaging thematic units. Each path guides students through a series of literary pieces, allowing students to analyze the political, social, economic, and cultural messages of the time as well as the relevance of the literary works to the world students live in today. Each path revolves around a central theme. The works in the course span a period of over 1000 years and have been written by authors who share common ideas but use a variety of literary genres to express their views. Whether it is the dramatic ending of a play or the colorful images in a verse of poetry, the words of these authors give students a new understanding of the world around them. As students travel down each path, they create authentic pieces that engage them in higher-level learning and provide them with a greater understanding of literature and its connection to the world.
Prerequisite: only if repeating the course.
430000 ALGEBRA I
TERM: YEAR CREDIT: 1 Algebra I is the foundation and the skills you’ll acquire in this course contain the basic knowledge you’ll need for all your high school math courses. Students will be using algebra to solve hundreds of real-world problems. There are hands-on labs to make the numbers, graphs and equations meaningful. Upon completion, students will possess the skills and strategies for solving real-world applications in sports, travel, business and health.
432000 ALGEBRA II
TERM: YEAR CREDIT: 1 This course builds on knowledge and skills gained from Algebra 1. Starting with a review of basic algebra, students will travel through systems of equations, factoring, radical and quadratic equations in the first segment. In the second segment, students will venture into the realms of polynomial functions, rational equations, exponential and logarithmic relations, landing at sequences and series. This course allows students to learn while having fun. Interactive examples help guide students’ journey through customized feedback and praise. Prerequisite: Algebra I and only if repeating the course.
431000 GEOMETRY
TERM: YEAR CREDIT: 1 Geometry has been used by man since the beginning of time. The ancient pyramids are based on geometrical design. Geometry is everywhere, not just in pyramids. Engineers use geometry to build highways and bridges. Artists use geometry to create perspective in their paintings, and mapmakers help travelers find things using the points located on a geometric grid. Throughout this course, students travel a mathematical highway illuminated by spatial relationships, reasoning, connections, and problem solving.
Prerequisite: Algebra I and only if repeating the course.
480000 HEALTH AND WELLNESS
TERM: FALL AND SPRING CREDIT: .5 Each day hundreds of decisions are made, including important decisions that have a huge impact on personal life. Making good decisions is a whole lot easier for those who have the correct information before making those decisions. Being equipped with correct information will empower students to manage real issues, like quality nutrition, substance abuse, coping with stress, and sexual abstinence. Good health is both mental and physical. Making good decisions starts with knowing the facts, understanding the consequences, and having the confidence to choose well.
420000 BIOLOGY
TERM: YEAR CREDIT: 1 The Biology course guides students through the study of living and non-living systems and how they interact with one another. This course will be a unique opportunity for students to successfully complete Biology in an on-line, interactive environment. Students explore the world they live in by posing questions and seeking answers through scientific inquiry. Discovery takes place through observation and data collection. The students will be introduced to the structure, function, diversity, and evolution of living matter. This is a course with real relevance. It encourages curiosity and provides opportunity for students to work on hands on lab activities and develop relationships through collaboratively learning. Engaging in the study of biological science broadens the picture of the world around us. This is a high school biology course designed to meet common core standards.
421000 CHEMISTRY
TERM: YEAR CREDIT: 1 Chemistry is rigorous and students will be challenged. Students will need to have 6-10 hours per week designated for study to be successful. It is designed as an interactive, 21st century course. Topics include the composition, properties, and changes associated with matter and their applications. This course is designed to serve as a foundation for the study of Chemistry at the university level. The utilization of scientific inquiry, web 2.0 tools, interactive experiences, higher order thinking, collaborative projects, real world application through labs and a variety of assessments all aid the student in ultimately demonstrating a vast understanding of the importance of Chemistry in the world around them; enabling them to apply these properties to their everyday lives.
424020 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
TERM: YEAR CREDIT: 1 The Environmental Science course is designed to investigate the role of humans in their environment. Students develop a knowledge base about their biological and physical environment. This information leads to exploration of human dependence on, technological control over, and interactions with the environment. Emphasis is placed on sustaining resources and making informed choices concerning environmental issues. Some of the topics addressed in this course include energy and nutrient cycling through ecosystems, the biomes of the world, water resources and pollution, air pollution, land use and urbanization, energy resources and use, waste management, population growth, biodiversity, and sustainability.
423000 PHYSICAL SCIENCE
TERM: YEAR CREDIT: 1 This course is designed as an interactive, 21st century course focusing on basic physics and chemistry. Topics include forces and motion, energy through waves, electricity and magnetism, the matter around us, chemical bonding and reactions. This course is designed to serve as a foundation for the study of the physical sciences. The utilization of scientific inquiry, web 2.0 tools, interactive experiences, higher order thinking, collaborative projects, real world application through labs and a variety of assessments all aid the student in ultimately demonstrating a vast understanding of the importance of the physical and chemical properties of the world around them; enabling them to apply these properties to their everyday lives.
472000 CIVICS
TERM: FALL AND SPRING CREDIT: .5 In Grades K-8, students receive a strong foundation in civics and government. The focus of Civics is the application of civic virtues and democratic principles and investigation of problem solving in society. This course provides a study of the structure and functions of federal, state, and local government. Civics also examines constitutional principles, the concepts of rights and responsibilities, the role of political parties and interest groups, and the importance of civic participation in the democratic process.
474300 ECONOMICS
TERM: FALL AND SPRING CREDIT: .5 In Grades K-8, students receive a strong foundation in economics. One-semester Economics for Grades 9-12 emphasizes economic decision making. Students will explore the interrelationships among consumers, producers, resources, and labor as well as the interrelationships between national and global economies. Additionally, students will examine the relationship between individual choices and the direct influence of these choices on occupational goals and future earning potential.
474400 PSYCHOLOGY
TERM: FALL AND SPRING CREDIT: .5 Psychology is a social studies elective course that introduces students to the science of behavior and mental processes. It includes an overview of the history of psychology as well as an opportunity to study individual and social psychology and how the knowledge and methods of psychologists are applied to the solution of human problems. The content of this course includes human development; biological bases of behavior; sensation and perception; learning, memory, and cognition; behavior patterns; and psychological disorders and their treatments. This course focuses on practical everyday application of the content.
470000 UNITED STATES HISTORY SINCE 1890
TERM: YEAR CREDIT: 1 In Grades 5-8, students receive a strong foundation in United States History from pre-colonialism through the Progressive Era, allowing United States History Since 1890 to focus in greater depth on the effects of changing culture, technology, world economy, and environment, as well as the impact of global conflicts on contemporary society in the United States. The desired outcome of this course is for students to develop an understanding of the cause-and-effect relationship between past and present events, recognize patterns of interactions, and understand the impact of events in the United States within an interconnected world. United States History Since 1890 examines the emergence of the United States as a world power to the present. Students will examine the political, economic, geographic, social, and cultural development of the United States of America from the late nineteenth century into the twenty-first century. United States History Since 1890 references the eras and time periods from The National Center for History in the Schools.
471000 WORLD HISTORY SINCE 1450
TERM: YEAR CREDIT: 1 In Grade 6, students study world history from the beginnings of human civilization through 1500 CE, correlating civics/government, economics, and geography to the historic eras. World History 9-12 provides an in-depth study of the history of human society from Era 6: Emergence of First Global Age 1450-1770 to Era 9: Contemporary World since 1945. World History is designed to assist students in understanding the human condition, how people and countries of the world have become increasingly interconnected across time and space, and the ways different people view the same event or issue from a variety of perspectives. This course develops an understanding of the historical roots of current world issues, especially as they pertain to international/global relations. It requires an understanding of world cultures and civilizations, including an analysis of important ideas, social and cultural values, beliefs, and traditions. Knowledge of past achievements and failures of different peoples and nations provides citizens of the 21st century with a broader context within which to address the many issues facing our nation and the world. World History references the eras and time periods from The National Center for History in the Schools.