KCS Virtual High School

Courses Offered 2021-2022

Language Arts

To satisfy graduation requirements, each student must complete four courses of Language Arts: English 1, English 2, English 3, and English 4. Each of these core courses addresses four curriculum content strands: Language, Reading, Writing, and Speaking and Listening. 

All Honors courses should substantially exceed the content standards, learning expectations, and performance indicators approved by the State Board of Education.  Additionally, an honors course shall include a minimum of five of the nine components from the Tennessee Department of Education Framework of Standards for Honors Courses.

English I:

In English 1, students will build upon the skills developed in the middle school English Language Arts. The focus is on close reading of informational and literary texts of appropriate grade level complexity. Based upon their reading, the students will engage in class discussion and written assignments to present analysis to develop an argument, or to write a real or imagined narrative. While reading and writing, students will analyze the author’s point of view, evidence, assumptions, and style. Within their own writing, students will develop focus, organization, style, and grammatical fluency. Vocabulary study will focus on morphology, etymology, and context, and the words will come from the texts which the students read. Assessment will focus on the students’ ability to read appropriately complex text and cite evidence to support analysis or claims from that text. Language skills will be assessed in the context of their writing, as well as through authentic workplace tasks, such as editing a draft.  

English I Honors:

English I Honors consists of the English I standards.  However, the curriculum modules reflect the Tennessee Department of Education framework for extension.

English 2: 

In English 2, students build upon the skills developed in English 1. The focus is on the close reading of informational and literary texts of appropriate grade level complexity. Based upon their reading, the students engage in class discussions and written assignments to present analysis to develop an argument, or to write a real or imagined narrative. While reading and writing, students analyze the author’s point of view, evidence, assumptions, and style.  Within their own writing, students will develop focus, organization, style, and grammatical fluency. Vocabulary study focuses on morphology, etymology, and context, and the words come from the texts that students read. Assessment will focus on the students’ ability to read appropriately complex text and cite evidence to support analysis or claims from that text. Language skills are assessed in the context of their writing, as well as through authentic workplace tasks, such as editing a draft.  

English 2 Honors:

English 2 Honors consists of the English 2 standards.  However, the curriculum modules reflect the Tennessee Department of Education framework for extension.

English 3:

Students in English 3 work on college and career-ready reading and writing skills while also reading and analyzing foundational works in American literature. Through analyzing how multiple authors present similar subjects, students learn about varying perspectives, bias, and audience. They also become proficient at identifying and evaluation reasoning within documents of historical, literary, information, and legal natures. Throughout the course, they will conduct short and long-term research projects, following both their lines of inquiry and some teacher-directed lines of inquiry. While the foundational skills for composition should be established in the earlier grades, students in English 3 work to refine their writing style in fluency and sophistication.

English 4:

Students in English 4 work on college and career-ready reading and writing skills while also reading and analyzing foundational works in world literature. Through analyzing how multiple authors present similar subjects, students learn about varying perspectives, bias, and audience. They also become proficient at identifying and evaluation reasoning within documents of historical, literary, information, and legal natures. Throughout the course, they will conduct short and long-term research projects, following both their lines of inquiry and some teacher-directed lines of inquiry. While the foundational skills for composition should be established in the earlier grades, students in English 4 work to refine their writing style in fluency and sophistication. They also develop their speaking and listening skills through speeches and presentations.

Advanced Placement (AP) Language and Composition:

AP Language and Composition is a course for students who have successfully completed Honors English 2 or have demonstrated competency in composition and rhetorical skills. The curriculum emphasizes analysis, research, and composition as students become skilled readers of prose written in a variety of periods, disciplines, and rhetorical contexts. Students will be expected to think critically and analytically and be able to express themselves effectively. College level outside reading is required. The course is designed to help develop the cognitive and communicative skills necessary to do well on the AP English Language and Composition Test, the culmination of the course.

Advanced Placement (AP) Literature and Composition:

AP Literature and Composition is a course for students who have successfully completed Advanced Placement English 3 or demonstrated competency in composition and literary analysis skills. Students must be highly motivated and have above average writing and analytical skills. The curriculum is an in-depth study of American, British, and World literature with expectations commensurate with the first year of college English. Outside readings are required. The course is designed to help develop the cognitive and communicative skills necessary to do well on the AP English Literature and Composition Test, the culmination of the course.

Creative Writing:

In Creative Writing, students will be given the opportunity to develop a creative outlet through additional writing experiences in fiction and nonfiction.  Creative writing allows students to promote self-expression, to explore various writing styles, and to strive for variety in diction, sentence structure, and format. 

Advanced Creative Writing:

Students will continue to pursue the art of creative writing, concentrating especially on poetry, short stories, non-fiction, and screenwriting in Advanced Creative Writing. Works of great authors are examined and modeled, with a view to enhancing the students’ own work. The class is conducted as a workshop with both teacher- and peer-conferencing, an important part of the process, the end result being a significant portfolio of student work. 

Speech and Communication: 

Students will explore a variety of speaking situations (informative, small group, persuasive, and special event speaking) and different types of communication (interpersonal, small group, and public communication) using a variety of digital media (text, audio, and visual) through formal and informal settings while taking Speech and Communication.  The student will develop the skills to generate ideas, research topics, organize information, and create and evaluate oral presentations.  

English Language Learners (ELL):

ELL is an English course designed for students who are classified as active ELLs.  Based on the student’s level of English proficiency as determined by a standardized, state-approved ESL Test, students are provided English instruction specifically designed for second language learners. This course is available in grades 9-12. Students may substitute ESL for up to two units of English credit. Additional credit earned in ELL may be used as elective credit at the same rate as other courses in the student’s school. Only a Certified ESL teacher can teach this course.

Journalism 1:

In Journalism 1, students will have the opportunity to improve the skills necessary in journalistic writing for both print and broadcast media.  Curriculum includes the history and elements of journalistic style and the application of journalistic techniques to the development of a publication. Students who wish to take this course must be highly motivated, work well with peers, and be responsible in following through with assignments as the work culminates in a publication.  Prerequisites: Students may have to demonstrate ability to write well; may be required to apply for this course; and may be required to receive teacher recommendation. Publications include the newspaper, the literary magazine, and/or the annual. 

Journalism 2:

In Journalism 2, students continue to explore and refine the skills necessary for journalistic writing and digital publishing. In addition to being actively engaged in communication skills, students explore the topics of ethics in journalism particularly paying close attention to plagiarism.  Prerequisites: Successful completion of Journalism 1.  Additionally, students may have to demonstrate ability to write well; may be required to apply for this course; and may be required to receive teacher recommendation. Publications include the newspaper, the literary magazine, and/or the annual. Can be taken for multiple credits.

Mathematics

To satisfy graduation requirements, each student must complete a math course each year he or she is enrolled in high school. Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2 and one math course above Algebra 2 are required for graduation.   Students with a qualifying IEP may participate in extended seat time (2 year) courses in Algebra and Geometry to complete the four math requirements.

Algebra I:

The fundamental purpose of Algebra I is to formalize and extend the mathematics that students learned in the middle grades. Because it is built on the middle grades’ standards, this is a more ambitious version of Algebra 1 than has generally been offered. The critical areas deepen and extend understanding of linear and exponential relationships by contrasting them with each other and by applying linear models to data that exhibit a linear trend, and students engage in methods for analyzing, solving, and using quadratic functions. The Mathematical Practice Standards apply throughout each course and, together with the content standards, prescribe that students experience mathematics as a coherent, useful, and logical subject that makes use of their ability to make sense of problem situations.  Successful completion of this sequence prepares students for Geometry. 

Honors Algebra I:

Honors Algebra is designed for students who did exceptionally well in the 8th grade mathematics. Course content covers the topics of Algebra 1 in greater depth and at a faster pace, thus providing time for enrichment through the study of additional performance objectives.

Geometry:

The fundamental purpose of the course in Geometry is to formalize and extend students’ geometric experiences from the middle grades. Students explore more complex geometric situations and deepen their explanations of geometric relationships, moving towards formal mathematical arguments. Important differences exist between this Geometry course and the historical approach taken in Geometry classes. For example, transformations are emphasized early in this course. Close attention should be paid to the introductory content for the Geometry conceptual category found in the high school CCSS. The Mathematical Practice Standards apply throughout each course and, together with the content standards, prescribe that students experience mathematics as a coherent, useful, and logical subject that makes use of their ability to make sense of problem situations. Successful completion of Geometry prepares a student for further work in Algebra 2.  Prerequisite: Algebra I with a grade of “C” or better is recommended.

Honors Geometry:

In Honors Geometry, standards found in Geometry are covered more in-depth with emphasis placed on problem solving, writing skills (especially in writing of proofs) and algebraic applications. Additional enrichment objectives are covered as time permits. Successful completion of this Honors Geometry prepares a student for further work in algebra, usually Honors Algebra 2. Prerequisite: Algebra 1 in the 8th grade or Honors Algebra 1 in the 9th grade or Departmental Recommendation.

Algebra 2:

Building on their work with linear, quadratic and exponential functions, students extend their repertoire of functions to include polynomial, rational, and radical functions in Algebra 2. Students work closely with the expressions that define the functions, and continue to expand and hone their abilities to model situations and to solve equations, including solving quadratic equations over the set of complex numbers and solving exponential equations using the properties of logarithms. The Mathematical Practice Standards apply throughout each course and, together with the content standards, prescribe that students experience mathematics as a coherent, useful, and logical subject that makes use of their ability to make sense of problem situations. Satisfactory completion of this course prepares students for entry into Pre-Calculus, Statistics, Applied Mathematical Concepts, or Bridge Math. Prerequisites: Algebra I and Geometry credit with a grade of “C” or better is recommended.

Honors Algebra 2:

Honors Algebra 2 provides a rigorous preparation for Honors Pre-Calculus. An emphasis is placed on algebraic proof and provides an enriched version of Algebra 2 through the study of additional objectives and topics. Successful completion of this course prepares students for entry into Pre-Calculus or Honors Pre-Calculus or Advanced Placement Statistics. Prerequisites: Algebra 1 and Honors Geometry credit with an “A” or “B” average grades or Departmental Recommendation.

Pre-Calculus:

Pre-Calculus develops the topics essential for success in Calculus. Content includes a study of algebraic, transcendental, and trigonometric functions, as well as their compositions and inverses, vectors, polar graphing, complex numbers, conic sections, and sequences and series. Students who complete this course successfully will have a strong background for a first-year Calculus sequence. Prerequisites: Algebra 1, Geometry, and Algebra 2 with an “A” or “B” average grades recommended.

Honors Pre-Calculus:

The faster pace of Honors Pre-Calculus provides the time to enrich the content of Pre-Calculus through the study of additional objectives and topics. Successful completion of this course provides the student with the necessary prerequisites for Advanced Placement Calculus. Prerequisites: Geometry (Honors) and Algebra 2 (Honors) with an “A” or “B” average or Departmental Recommendation.

Calculus:

Calculus is designed for students who have a thorough knowledge of college preparatory mathematics. Course content includes the study of limits; derivatives; integration; applications; exponential, logarithmic and trigonometric functions. Prerequisites: Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2 and Pre-Calculus.

Advanced Placement (AP) Calculus AB

AP Calculus AP is devoted mainly to the topics in differential and integral calculus.  Students who study this course will be prepared to take the Advanced Placement AB Calculus Exam and seek college credit. The scope of this course follows the topics listed in the College Board Advanced Placement Mathematics Course Description. Prerequisites: Honors Pre-Calculus or Departmental Recommendation.

Advanced Placement (AP) Calculus BC:

AP Calculus BC is an extension of all the topics covered in AP Calculus AB with additional topics. Students who study this course will be prepared to take the Advanced Placement BC Calculus Exam and seek college credit. The scope of this course follows the topics listed in the College Board Advanced Placement Course Description. Prerequisites: AP Calculus AB or Departmental Recommendation.

Statistics:

Statistics is non-calculus in its orientation and designed to introduce students to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. The major themes in Statistics include: interpreting categorical and quantitative data, conditional probability and other rules of probability, using probability to make decisions, and making inferences and justifying conclusions. Statistics is intended for students interested in business, social sciences, education, and data analysis. Prerequisites: Algebra 2.

Advanced Placement (AP) Statistics:

AP Statistics is non-calculus in its orientation with a major focus on data analysis. Students who study this course will be prepared to take the AP Statistics Exam and seek college credit. This course follows the topics listed in the College Board Advanced Placement course description. Prerequisites: English 2 or Honors English 2 with a grade of “B” or better and Algebra 2 with a grade of “C” or better are recommended, and Departmental Recommendation.

Bridge Math:

Bridge Math is a 4th year senior level math credit course designed for students who need to refresh core mathematics skills prior to further study. It is recommended that students who have not scored at least a 19 on the ACT assessment (or equivalent assessment) take this course to be better prepared for post-secondary study. Prerequisite: Algebra 2.

Science

To satisfy graduation requirements, three (3) credits of science are required. One unit must be Biology; one must be Chemistry or Physics, and one additional lab science course. Physics (Algebra 2 based or above) may count for a fourth year of math. If Physics is used for a fourth year of math, it cannot count as science credit towards graduation.  Students who have a qualifying IEP must take Biology and two additional lab sciences.  Chemistry or physics is not required of a student who has an IEP but can be taken. Some eighth students may enter high school with an Honors Physical Science or a Biology credit.  These credits do count as credits towards the graduation requirement.  However, these students are strongly encouraged to take additional sciences in high school.

Biology 1:

The goal of Biology 1 is to develop an understanding of the diversity and unity in living things. Concepts covered include current and emerging technologies as well as interactions of organisms with their environment, chemical structure of organisms, transfer of energy in organisms, cell structure and function, continuity and change in living things, diversity of living things, and evidence of biological evolution.

Honors Biology 1:

Honors Biology 1 encompasses all of the standards of Biology but places increased emphasis on development of critical thinking skills. Prerequisites: Honors level is based upon a combination of standardized test scores, past performance in science, and teacher recommendations.

Honors Biology 2:

Honors Biology 2 takes the standards of Biology 2 to a much deeper level.  The course is fast paced and includes time for some enrichment topics. Prerequisites:  Biology 1, Chemistry 1 and Department Recommendation.

Advanced Placement (AP) Biology:

AP Biology is a first-year college level biology course, which follows the syllabus of the College Board’s Advanced Placement (AP) Program. The AP Biology curriculum is designed to prepare students to take the College Board AP Biology test given in May of each year. The course has been audited and approved by the College Board. For schools on block scheduling, Biology 2 Honors is intended to be the first semester course that will lead into AP Biology in the spring. This course offers accelerated and in-depth coverage of biology topics in the areas of molecular and cellular biology, genetics and evolution, and organismal and population biology. Some schools may elect to offer AP Biology as a stand-alone, one-semester course. Students may be required to complete a summer assignment and/or attend additional classroom or laboratory sessions beyond the regularly scheduled classes. Prerequisites: Biology 1 and Chemistry and Biology 2 (Honors)-based on individual school requirements.

Human Anatomy & Physiology:

Human Anatomy & Physiology is a study of the body’s structures and respective functions at the molecular/biochemical, cellular, tissue, organ, systemic, and organism levels. Students explore the body through laboratory investigations, models, diagrams, and/ or comparative studies of the anatomy of other organisms. Content includes the study of the structure and function of cells, tissues, organs, and body systems. Some schools may offer this course as dual credit in coordination with a local cooperating institution of higher education. Prerequisites: Biology 1 is required; Chemistry 1 is recommended.

Honors Human Anatomy & Physiology:

Honors Human Anatomy & Physiology takes the standards of Human Anatomy & Physiology to a much deeper level.  The course is fast paced and includes time for some enrichment topics. Prerequisites:  Biology 1 is required, Chemistry 1 is recommended and teacher recommendation.

Environmental Science:

Environmental Science provides students with an opportunity to develop an understanding of interrelationships in the natural world. In addition, it allows them to identify natural and man-made environmental problems and design and evaluate possible solutions for environmental problems. This course will also cover interactions and dynamics of ecosystems, unity and diversity of biological change, earth systems and human activity, and the interdependence of science, engineering and society. Environmental Science can be used as a semester one course previous to AP Environmental Science. Prerequisites: Algebra 1 and Biology recommended.

Honors Environmental Science:

Honors Environmental Science takes the standards of Environmental Science to a much deeper level.  The course is fast paced and includes time for some enrichment topics. Prerequisites:  Algebra I and Biology are recommended and teacher recommendation.

Advanced Placement (AP) Environmental Science:

AP Environmental Science is a first-year college level environment science course that follows the syllabus of the College Board’s Advanced Placement (AP) Program. The AP Environmental Science course is designed to prepare students to take the College Board AP Environmental Science test given in May of each year. The course has been audited and approved by the College Board. The goal of this course is to provide students with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world, to identify and analyze environmental problems both natural and human-made, to evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and to examine alternative solutions for resolving or preventing them. Students may be required to complete a summer assignment and/or attend additional classroom or laboratory sessions beyond the regularly scheduled classes. Prerequisites: Biology 1, Chemistry 1 and teacher recommendation.

Physical Science:

The primary theme for Physical Science is the study of matter and energy. The course is designed to introduce students to the concepts of forces and motion, chemical and physical properties of matter, the ways in which matter and energy interact, the forms and properties of energy, and other basic concepts in chemistry and physics. Prerequisites: The fundamental level of this course is based upon a combination of standardized test scores, past performance in science, teacher recommendations, and established enrollment limits.

Chemistry I:

The goal of Chemistry 1 is to develop an understanding of the relevance of chemistry as it relates to standards of living, career choices, and current issues in science and technology. Course content includes laboratory techniques and safety, properties and structures of matter in its various states, chemical calculations and quantitative relationships, chemical bonding and molecular structure, chemical reactions, solutions, gas laws, and acids and bases. The ability to make mathematical computations using fractions, decimals, ratios and proportions, and exponents is required. Honors Chemistry is designed to meet the needs of the more academically able student and will include a basic study of nuclear principles and organic chemistry. Prerequisite: Algebra 1and a combination of standardized test scores, past performance in science and mathematics, and teacher recommendation. 

Honors Chemistry I:

Honors Chemistry I takes the standards of Chemistry I to a much deeper level.  The course is fast paced and includes time for some enrichment topics.  Prerequisites: Algebra I, a combination of standardized test scores, past performance in science, and teacher recommendation.

Honors Chemistry 2 and Advanced Placement (AP) Chemistry:

AP Chemistry is a first-year college level chemistry course that follows the syllabus of the College Board’s Advanced Placement (AP) Program. The AP Chemistry curriculum is designed to prepare students to take the College Board AP Chemistry test given in May of each year. This course has been audited and approved by the College Board. For schools on block scheduling, Honors Chemistry 2 is intended to be the first semester course that will lead into AP Chemistry in the spring. This course offers accelerated and in-depth coverage of chemistry topics in the areas of structure and states of matter, kinetic theory, chemical reactions including kinetics, and the concepts of thermodynamics. Students may be required to complete a summer assignment and/or attend additional classroom or laboratory sessions beyond the regularly scheduled classes. Prerequisites: Chemistry 1, Algebra 1 and 2 required; current enrollment in Advanced Math is strongly suggested; Chemistry 2. Or Honors Chemistry 2.

Physics:

Physics is the study of the interrelationships between matter and energy. Topics of study include force, motion, momentum, energy, heat, light, sound, electricity and magnetism, and atomic and nuclear physics. Prerequisites: Algebra 1; Biology and Chemistry recommended.

Honors Physics:

Honors Physics is designed to meet the needs of the more academically able student.  It consists of the same standards as Physics but is taught at a faster pace and goes more in-depth in order to include time for enrichment topics.  The Honors level prerequisite is based upon a combination of standardized test scores, past performance in science and math, and teacher recommendations. Current enrollment in Algebra 2 or an advanced math is recommended for students in the honors course.

Advanced Placement (AP) Physics 1:

AP Physics 1 is equivalent to a first semester college course in algebra-based physics. This course covers Newtonian mechanics (including rotational dynamics and angular momentum); work, energy and power; and mechanical waves and sound. It also introduces electric circuits. Prerequisites: Geometry and currently taking Algebra 2 or equivalent course.

 
Social Studies

To satisfy graduation requirements for Social Studies, students must earn one credit in World History and Geography, one credit in United States History and Geography, one-half credit in United States Government and Civics, and one-half credit in Economics for a total of three credits in Social Studies. One-half credit in Personal Finance remains a graduation requirement. Additionally, successful completion of the Tennessee Civics Assessment (minimum 70%) is required for graduation.

World History and Geography:

In World History and Geography, students will study the rise of the nation-state in Europe, the origins and consequences of the Industrial Revolution, political reform in Western Europe, imperialism across the world, and the economic and political roots of the modern world. Students will explain the causes and consequences of the great military and economic events of the past century, including the World Wars, The Great Depression, The Cold War, and Russian and Chinese Revolutions. Students will study the rise of nationalism and the continuing persistence of political, ethnic, and religious conflict in many parts of the world. Students will explore geographic influences on history, with attention to political boundaries that developed with the evolution of nations from 1750 to the present and the subsequent human geographic issues that dominate the global community. Additionally, students will examine aspects of technical geography and how these innovations continuously impact geopolitics in the contemporary world. This course is a continuation of the 6th and 7th grade survey courses of world history and geography and is designed to help students think like historians, focusing on historical concepts in order to build a foundational understanding of the world. Appropriate primary sources have been embedded in the standards in order to deepen the understanding of world history and geography. Special emphasis will be placed on the contemporary world and its impact on students today. 

Honors World History and Geography:

This course description for Honors World History and Geography is the same as the CP World History and Geography course and follows the same state standards and local curriculum but with increased rigor. Students will study the rise of the nation-state in Europe, the origins and consequences of the Industrial Revolution, political reform in Western Europe, imperialism across the world, and the economic and political roots of the modern world. Students will explain the causes and consequences of the great military and economic events of the past century, including the World Wars, The Great Depression, The Cold War, and Russian and Chinese Revolutions. Students will study the rise of nationalism and the continuing persistence of political, ethnic, and religious conflict in many parts of the world. Students will explore geographic influences on history, with attention to political boundaries that developed with the evolution of nations from 1750 to the present and the subsequent human geographic issues that dominate the global community. Additionally, students will examine aspects of technical geography and how these innovations continuously impact geopolitics in the contemporary world. The course is designed to prepare students for Advanced Placement coursework. This course is a continuation of the 6th and 7th grade survey courses of world history and geography and is designed to help students think like historians, focusing on historical concepts in order to build a foundational understanding of the world. Appropriate primary sources have been embedded in the standards in order to deepen the understanding of world history and geography. Special emphasis will be placed on the contemporary world and its impact on students today. 

Advanced Placement (AP) World History: Modern:

AP World History Modern begins in 1200 CE and continues to the present.  Students are asked to analyze primary and secondary sources, develop historical arguments, make historical connections, and utilize reasoning about comparison causation, and continuity and change over time. Students will explore events, individuals, developments, and processes in different times and places through six themes including humans and the environment, cultural developments and interactions, governance, economic systems, social interactions and organizations, and technology and innovation.  Prerequisite: Departmental Recommendation.

United States Government and Civics:

U.S. Government and Civics is a one-half credit course. Students will study the purposes, principles, and practices of American government as established by the United States Constitution. Students will learn the structure and processes of the government of the state of Tennessee and local governments. Students will recognize their rights and responsibilities as citizens as well as how to exercise these rights and responsibilities at the local, state, and national levels. This course can be used for compliance with T.C.A. § 49-6-1028, in which all districts must ensure that a project-based civics assessment is given at least once in grades 4–8 and once in grades 9–12. 

Advanced Placement (AP) United States Government and Politics:

AP U.S. Government and Politics provides a college-level, nonpartisan introduction to key political concepts, ideas, institutions, policies, interactions, roles, and behaviors that characterize the constitutional system and political culture of the United States. Students will study U.S. foundational documents, Supreme Court decisions, and other texts and visuals to gain an understanding of the relationships and interactions among political institutions, processes, and behaviors. They will also engage in disciplinary practices that require them to read and interpret data, make comparisons and applications, and develop evidence-based arguments. In addition, they will complete a political science research or applied civics project. The required project adds a civic component to the course, engaging students in exploring how they can affect, and are affected by, government and politics throughout their lives. The project might have students collect data on a teacher-approved political science topic, participate in a community service activity, or observe and report on the policymaking process of a governing body. Students should plan a presentation that relates their experiences or findings to what they are learning in the course.

Prerequisite: Departmental Recommendation.

Advanced Placement Comparative Government and Politics:

AP Comparative Government and Politics introduces students to fundamental concepts used by political scientists to study the processes and outcomes of politics in a variety of country settings. The course aims to illustrate the rich diversity of political life, to show available institutional alternatives, to explain differences in processes and policy outcomes, and to communicate to students the importance of global political and economic changes. Comparison assists both in identifying problems and in analyzing policymaking. Careful comparison of political systems produces useful knowledge about the institutions and policies countries have employed to address problems, or, indeed, what they have done to make things worse. Prerequisite: Departmental Recommendation.

United States History and Geography (Post-Reconstruction to the Present):

In United States History and Geography, students will examine the causes and consequences of the Industrial Revolution and the United States’ growing role in world diplomatic relations, including the Spanish-American War and World War I. Students will study the goals and accomplishments of the Progressive movement and the New Deal. Students will also learn about the various factors that led to our nation’s entry into World War II, as well as the consequences for American life. Students will explore the causes and course of the Cold War. Students will study the important social, cultural, economic, and political changes that have shaped the modern-day United States resulting from the Civil Rights Movement, The Cold War, and recent events and trends. Additionally, students will learn about the causes and consequences of contemporary issues impacting the world today. Students will continue to use skills for historical and geographical analysis as they examine United States history after Reconstruction, with special attention to Tennessee connections in history, geography, politics, and people. Students will continue to learn fundamental concepts in civics, economics, and geography within the context of United States history. The reading of primary source documents is a key feature of the United States history course. Specific primary sources have been embedded within the standards for depth and clarity. Finally, students will focus on current human and physical geographic issues important in the contemporary United States and global society. This course will place Tennessee history, government, and geography in context with United States history in order to illustrate the role our state has played in our nation’s history. This course is the second of a two-year survey of United States History and Geography, continuing from 8th grade’s study of United States History and Geography.  This course can be used for compliance with T.C.A. § 49-6-1028, in which all districts must ensure that a project-based civics assessment is given at least once in grades 4–8 and once in grades 9–12. 

Advanced Placement (AP) United States History:

The AP United States History course is designed to provide students with the analytic skills and factual knowledge necessary to deal critically with the problems and materials in United States history.  The program prepares students for intermediate and advanced college courses by making demands upon them equivalent to those made by full-year introductory college courses. Students should learn to assess historical materials-their relevance to a given interpretive problem, reliability, and importance- and to weigh the evidence and interpretations presented in historical scholarship. This AP United States History course will develop the skills necessary to arrive at conclusions on the basis of an informed judgment and to present reasons and evidence clearly and persuasively in essay format. Prerequisite: Departmental Recommendation.

Advanced Placement (AP) European History:

AP European History provides an in-depth study of the development of Western European history. The course is designed to increase the knowledge of European political, social, economic, and intellectual history of the nations of Western Europe. The student will gain a better understanding of the problems faced by people at a given time, relate these problems to the present, and attempt to find solutions. This course follows College Board guidelines and is taught at the college level. Prerequisite: Departmental Recommendation

Economics:

Economics is a one-half credit course. Students will examine the allocation of scarce resources and consider the economic reasoning used by consumers, producers, savers, investors, workers, and voters. Students will explore the concepts of scarcity, supply and demand, market structures, national economic performance, money and the role of financial institutions, economic stabilization, and trade. Finally, students will examine key economic philosophies and economists who have and continue to influence economic decision-making.

Advanced Placement (AP) Micro-Economics:

The purpose of AP Micro-Economics is to give students a thorough understanding of the principles of economics that apply to the functions of individual decision makers, both consumers and producers, within the economic system. It places primary emphasis on the nature and functions of product markets and includes the study of factor markets and of the role of government in promoting greater efficiency and equity in the economy. Prerequisite: Departmental Recommendation.

Advanced Placement (AP) Macro-Economics:

The purpose of AP Macro-Economics is to give students a thorough understanding of the principles of economics that apply to an economic system as a whole. The course places particular emphasis on the study of national income and price-level determination, and also develops students’ familiarity with economic performance measures, the financial sector, stabilization policies, economic growth, and international economics. Prerequisite: Departmental Recommendation.

Personal Finance:

Personal Finance is a one-half credit course. 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. (This course is recommended for grade 12)

Tennessee History:

Students will examine the history of Tennessee, including the cultural, geographic, economic, and political influences upon that history. Students will discuss Tennessee’s indigenous peoples as well as the arrival of Euro-American settlers. Students will analyze and describe the foundation of the state of Tennessee. Students will identify and explain the origins, impact, and aftermath of the Civil War. Students will discuss the rise of a manufacturing economy. Finally, students will examine and discuss the Civil Rights Movement and Tennessee’s modern economy and society. 

This course follows the same organization as Section VI from the Tennessee Blue Book. Additionally, all United States History courses (i.e., 3rd grade, 4th grade, 5th grade, 8th grade, and United States History) can use the course standards to elaborate on Tennessee history. 

Film Studies:

Film Studies is an elective course open to Knox County Schools students. The curriculum for this course ranges from the history of modern cinema and techniques of film production to the influence of cinema in 20th Century American culture. It is also a supplement to United States and World History classes. Students will view numerous films, which represent every major cinematic genre from the Silent Era to Film School Generation, analyzing the parallels between each cinematic style and the events that shaped American history/culture across the 20th Century. Students will also explore the relationship between literature, literary components and storytelling to their onscreen translation. Finally, the students will leave this class with a refined appreciation for film-making as an art and as a medium which continues to emulate and redefine American culture.

Advanced Placement (AP) Psychology: 

AP Psychology is a one credit, semester-long course (equivalent to 90 days of instruction) and is designed to introduce students to the systematic and scientific study of the behavior and mental processes of human beings and other animals. Students are exposed to the psychological facts, principles, and phenomena associated with each of the major subfields within psychology. They also learn about the ethics and methods psychologists use in their science and practice. Prerequisite: Departmental Recommendation.

World Geography:

World Geography, different from World History and Geography, is an elective course ONLY.  Students will examine the global perspectives, basic concepts, and fundamental questions of geography. Students will explore where phenomena occur and reasons why phenomena occur in those locations. Students will focus on the ways through which all places on Earth are interconnected and how the human use of Earth's surface varies. Students will also explore various topics, including geographic skills and tools, physical processes, natural resources, cultural geography, political geography, population and migration, economic development and interdependence, and urbanization. 

Advanced Placement (AP) Human Geography:

The purpose of the AP Human Geography course is to introduce students to the systemic study of patterns and processes that have shaped human understanding, use, and alteration of Earth’s surface. Students learn to employ spatial concepts and landscape analysis to examine human socioeconomic organization and its environmental consequences. They also learn about the methods and tools geographers use in their research and applications. Prerequisite: Departmental Recommendation.

Contemporary Issues:

In Contemporary Issues, students will use inquiry skills to examine the issues that impact the contemporary world. Students will analyze the historical, cultural, economic, and geographic factors that have elevated certain issues to levels of concern in the United States and around the globe. Students will engage in research and problem solving in order to better understand and assess significant current issues. 

Leadership I:

Leadership I is a one-credit elective course. Students will begin a journey of self-discovery by identifying personal values, skills, strengths, and weaknesses, specifically as it pertains to becoming a leader.  This course will be centered around students’ inner journey to discover what type of leader the student currently is and will become by the end of the course.  With the knowledge of personal strengths and weaknesses, students  will learn how to apply the specific leadership characteristics in order to be successful in the following leadership courses and experiences. Service learning is also a major focus of the course. Students will have the opportunity to put their learning into practice through the planning of student-led service projects within the school and the community.  Note - this course is listed under social studies however, any certified secondary teacher can teach this course. 

World Languages

Students should progress through world language courses in sequence. Students must complete each level with a passing grade before enrolling in the next level. Each course offers one unit of credit. Two (2) sequential units of the same world language satisfy the requirement for graduation. Completion of two (2) sequential units of the same world language for high school credit meets the requirement for admission to most university programs; however, language study beyond the basic requirement will better prepare students for entry into a university program. 

Alphabetic Modern Languages:

Level 1: French & Spanish:

Level 1 Modern Languages are recommended for students in the ninth grade. The goal for Level 1 students is to perform at the Novice High proficiency level across the three modes of communication. Level 1 students demonstrate cultural and intercultural competency in the Novice range. Students must earn two sequential credits in the same language to meet graduation requirements.

Level 1 Honors: French & Spanish:

Students enrolled in a Level 1 Honors class perform at the Intermediate Low proficiency level. Enrolling in a Level 1 Honors world language class is the first step toward future success in upper level courses and the pursuit of the Seal of Biliteracy. Students must earn two sequential credits in the same language to meet graduation requirements.  Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation.

Level 2: French & Spanish:

The goal for Level 2 students is to perform at the Intermediate Low proficiency level across the three modes of communication and demonstrate cultural and intercultural competency in the Intermediate range. Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Level 1 of the same language.

Level 2 Honors: French, German, Spanish:

In addition to the Level 2 requirements, the goal for students enrolled in a Level 2 Honors class is to perform at the Intermediate Mid proficiency level. Enrolling in a Level 2 Honors world language class is a step toward future success in upper level courses and the pursuit of the Seal of Biliteracy.  Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation.

Level 3: French & Spanish:

Level 3 world language is recommended for any student planning to enter a career or attend a four-year college or university. The goal for Level 3 students is to perform at the beginning stages of the Intermediate Mid proficiency level across the three modes of communication and demonstrate cultural and intercultural competency in the Intermediate range.

Level 3 Honors: French & Spanish:

The Level 3 Honors program is highly recommended for students who intend to apply for the Seal of Biliteracy and/or enroll in advanced academic world language courses. In addition to Level 3 requirements, the goal for Level 3 Honors students is to perform at the Intermediate High proficiency level. Enrolling in a Level 3 Honors world language class is a step toward future success in upper level courses and the pursuit of the Seal of Biliteracy. Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation.

Level 4 Honors: French & Spanish:

Level 4 Honors is highly recommended for students who intend to apply for the Seal of Biliteracy and/or enroll in advanced academic world language courses. The goal for students enrolled in a Level 4 Honors class is to perform at the Advanced Low proficiency level. Students will demonstrate Advanced range cultural and intercultural competencies. Enrolling in a Level 4 Honors world language class is a step toward future success in upper level courses and the pursuit of the Seal of Biliteracy. Prerequisite:  Teacher recommendation.

Level 5 Honors: French & Spanish:

Level 5 Honors is recommended for students who intend to apply for the Seal of Biliteracy and/or enroll in advanced academic world language courses. The goal for students enrolled in a Level 5 Honors class is to perform at the Advanced Mid proficiency level. Students will demonstrate Advanced range cultural and intercultural competencies. Enrolling in a Level 5 Honors world language class is a step toward pursuing the Seal of Biliteracy. Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation.

Advanced Placement (AP): French & Spanish:

AP world language is recommended for students who demonstrate a minimum of Advanced Low proficiency in an alphabetic modern language and for students who intend to apply for the Honors Seal of Biliteracy. This course is for students who are motivated to intensely study the language in preparation for the Advanced Placement examination. This course should not be taught in combination with any other world language course. Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation.

Lifetime Wellness & Physical Education 

One unit of Lifetime Wellness is required for graduation and is usually taken during a student’s 9th grade year.  Students must complete one-half (½) credit in Physical Education. This requirement may be met by substituting a documented and equivalent time of physical activity in marching band, JROTC, cheerleading, interscholastic athletics, school sponsored intramural athletics, and other areas approved by the local board of education.

Physical Education 1:

Physical Education1 is a one-unit elective course. The goal of Physical Education 1 is to provide a variety of activities through four strands: Health Related Fitness; Individual Sports; Team Sports; and Basic Gymnastic Fundamentals. Each unit within the strand will be designed to teach the basic skills, rules and strategies necessary to understand and perform a variety of activities.

Advanced Physical Education:

Advanced Physical Education is a one-unit elective course. The goal of Advanced Physical Education is to provide progressive skills, techniques and strategies in various activities. Prerequisite: Physical Education 1.  Can be taken for multiple credits.

Lifetime Wellness:

Lifetime Wellness is a one-unit course required for graduation. The goal of Lifetime Wellness is for students to learn a lifelong process of making healthy choices to integrate the emotional, social, intellectual, and physical dimensions of self for a longer, more productive and higher quality of life. The course consists of the following state standards: Personal Wellness; Mental, Emotional and Social Health;   Safety and First Aid; Human Growth and Development; and Substance Use/Abuse. 

Family Life Education, HIV/AIDS Education, and Human Trafficking are included in the Wellness standards. These topics are mandated by State Law (Public Charter No. 565). Parents have the option to have their child exempted and placed in an alternate learning environment during the Family Life instruction. A parent may complete and return the “opt out” form sent home with each student before instruction begins. Parents are welcome to review the Family Life and HIV/AIDS education curriculum and materials by contacting their child’s teacher at the school.  Only Knox County Schools' staff and Knox County Health Department personnel will deliver this important and delicate curricular material. Family Life education is taught in 6th, 8th grades and Lifetime Wellness in high school.

Fine Arts:

Visual Arts:

Art I:

Art I is a survey course designed for students in grades 9-12 who are enrolling in a high school art course for the first time. Provides a variety of experiences that build on the concepts, techniques, and use of media introduced in the middle school program. Generally laboratory in nature, Art I explores and gives experience in two-dimensional (drawing, painting, printmaking) and three-dimensional (sculpture, ceramics, textiles) formats and integrates art history, design principles, and aesthetic criticism and response. There is no prerequisite for this class. This class may not be repeated.

Advanced Art:

Advanced Art studio classes are for students who have successfully completed Art I and, who, in the judgment of the instructor, show a sufficient level of interest and/or ability that would warrant continued study and making in the Visual Arts. Students in Advanced Art courses concentrate on a specific art medium: Sculpture, Painting, Ceramics, Drawing, Printmaking, Papermaking, or Photography. General Advanced Art includes 2-D and/or 3-D artmaking and study. Prerequisite is the successful completion of Art I and art teacher recommendation. These classes may be repeated.

Music:

General Music- Studio Concentration:

General music studio based classes provide students with a focus on creating and performing. Students in studio based classes may concentrate on performance of specific instruments (guitar, keyboard, steel drums, etc.) or small ensembles (rock band, plucked instruments, etc.). Classes may also be compositionally focused (music production, digital music, song writing, etc.). There is no prerequisite for these classes. These classes may be repeated.

General Music History:

Music History courses may be survey based beginning in the medieval era and ending in contemporary times or specific to a movement, culture, time period, place, or identity (i.e. gender, race, etc.) Students will examine and respond to the historical, cultural, and societal aspects of music-making. There is no prerequisite for this class. This class may not be repeated. 

Music Theory:

Music Theory is a course for students with a particular interest and aptitude in music. Emphasis is on an in-depth study of music fundamentals through ear training and reading and writing music. Musical analysis as well as simple rhythmic, melodic, and harmonic dictation will be explored. Prerequisite is music teacher recommendation. This class may not be repeated.

AP Music Theory:

This course “is an introductory college-level music theory course. Students cultivate their understanding of music theory through analyzing performed and notated music as they explore concepts like pitch, rhythm, form, and musical design” (AP Music Theory Course Overview). Prerequisite is music teacher recommendation. While students may retake the AP examination, this class may not be repeated. 

Career & Technical Education

Human Services:

Introduction to Human Studies:

Introduction to Human Studies is the Level 1 Course for the Human and Social Sciences and Dietetics and Nutrition programs of study within the Human Services Career Cluster. (Other courses available in the Human Services cluster follow this description.)  Human Services is a foundational course for students interested in becoming a public advocate, social worker, dietician, nutritionist, counselor, or community volunteer. Upon completion of this course, a proficient student will understand human needs, overview of social services, career investigation, mental health, and communication. Artifacts will be created for inclusion in a portfolio, which will continue to build throughout the program of study. Standards in this course are aligned with Tennessee State Standards for English Language & Literacy in Technical Subjects, as well as the Tennessee State States for Psychology and Sociology, and the National Standards for Family and Consumer Sciences Education, Second Edition.  

Credit: 1 - Grade Level 9   

Lifespan Development:

Lifespan Development builds basic knowledge in human growth and development. Upon completion of the course, proficient students will have knowledge of developmental theory, principles of growth, behavior of children from conception through adolescence, adult development and aging, and death and dying. Artifacts will be created for inclusion in a portfolio, which will continue to build throughout the program of study. Standards in the course are aligned with Tennessee State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in Technical Subjects, as well as Tennessee State Standards in Psychology and Sociology, and National Standards for Family and Consumer Sciences Education, Second Edition. 

Credit: 1 - Grade Level 10 

Family Studies (NIC):

Family Studies is an applied knowledge course that examines the diversity and evolving structure of the modern family. Upon completion of the course, proficient students will have knowledge of the demographic, historical, and social changes of interpersonal relationships, as well as parenting, and the effect of stressors on the family. Artifacts will be created for inclusion in a portfolio, which will continue to build throughout the program of study. Standards in the course are aligned with Tennessee State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in Technical Subjects, as well as Tennessee State Standards for Psychology, Sociology, U.S. Government and Civics, and U.S. History and Geography and the National Standards for Family and Consumer Sciences Education, Second Edition.  

Credit: 1 - Grade Level 11 

Office Management:

Computer Applications:

Computer Applications is a foundational course intended to teach students the computing fundamentals and concepts involved in the use of common software applications. Upon completion of this course, students will gain basic proficiency in word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and presentations. In addition, students will have engaged in key critical thinking skills and will have practiced ethical and appropriate behavior required for the responsible use of technology.

Credit: 1 - Grade Level: 8–12  

Business Communications:

Business Communications is the Level 2 course for the Business Management, Office Management, and HR Management Programs of Study within the Business Management & Administration Career Cluster. The course description is provided within the Business Management & Administration Career Cluster.

Business Management: 

Business Management can be found in the Business Management, Office Management, and Health Services Administration programs of study.  The course description is provided within the Business Management & Administration Career Cluster.

Business Management:

Introduction to Business and Marketing:

Introduction to Business & Marketing is an introductory course designed to give students an overview of the Business Management and Administration, Marketing, and Finance career clusters. The course helps students prepare for the growing complexities of the business world by examining basic principles of business, marketing, and finance in addition to exploring key aspects of leadership, ethical and social responsibilities, and careers. Students’ academic skills in communications, mathematics, and economics are reinforced with activities modeled in the context of business topics. Upon completion of this course, proficient students will be equipped with the foundational skills to succeed in any of the Business, Marketing, or Finance programs of study and will be prepared to make an informed decision regarding which pathways they would like to pursue in high school. Prerequisite(s): None.

Business Communications:

Business Communications is a course designed to develop students’ effective oral and electronic business communications skills. This course develops skills in multiple methods of communications, including social media, as well as electronic publishing, design, layout, composition, and video conferencing. Upon completion of this course, proficient students will be able to demonstrate successful styles and methods for professional business communications using the proper tools to deliver effective publications and presentations. Prerequisite: Introduction to Business and Marketing.

Business Management:

Business Management focuses on the development of the planning, organizing, leading, and controlling functions required for the production and delivery of goods and services. This applied knowledge course addresses the management role of utilizing the businesses’ resources of employees, equipment, and capital to achieve an organization’s goals. Students will participate in a continuing project throughout the course in which, individually or in teams, they will present recommendations to improve an existing business. Local business partnerships are encouraged to provide resources for faculty and students. Upon completion of this course, proficient students will be able to complete a full review of an existing business and offer recommendations for improvement as would a management consultant.  Prerequisite: Introduction to Business and Marketing.