Course Catalog

Welcome to the DHS course catalog. All potential course offerings are listed alphabetically below, or you may use the listings to the right to search by department or subject. Please Note: In any given year, whether a course is offered depends on the number of requests received for that course.

ACADEMIC SUPPORT | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 19991

Grades: 9, 10

Prerequisites: Special Education or teacher recommendation

Description: This course is designed to provide 9th and 10th grade students with academic support, content specific literacy instruction, organizational assistance and study skills.

ADVANCED ACADEMIC SUPPORT | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 19992

Grades: 9, 10

Prerequisites: Special Education or teacher recommendation

Description: This course is designed to provide 11th and 12th grade students with academic support, content specific literacy instruction, organizational assistance and study skills.

ADVANCED ACTING/ PERFORMANCE | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 50551

Grades: 11, 12

Prerequisites: Theatre Arts and Audition

Description: This course is open to junior and senior acting students by audition only. It is designed for the serious acting student, and the emphasis is working as a team to develop acting skills. The academic is integrated with the practical, as students delve into advanced acting theory, audition techniques, scene and character work, play study, acting styles, comedy, forum theatre, devised work, and theatre history. Students are required to see all school plays. Students may take the class for two years; each year will offer new areas of study, as it is taught on a two‐year informational rotation.

ADVANCED CREATIVE ART‐ COMPREHENSIVE | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 51541

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Creative Art‐Comprehensive

Description: Students will build on the foundations from Creative Art, with an emphasis on developing the professional skills associated for a career in the Visual Arts and Design field. This class will allow students to continue to develop skills, knowledge, and technique in a chosen art field while at the same time guide students through the process of researching a career as a visual or design artist. Students will create visual and design projects, research creative careers, develop websites and portfolios, and work with local artists and gallery owners to build a foundation for a career in the Visual and Design Arts.

ADVISORY | Credits: 0.1 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 221511

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: All DHS students are assigned to an Advisory, during which students work on their ICAP (Independent Career and Academic Plan) as well as engage in activities that develop and support school culture and community. Ideally, students have the same Advisor for all 4 years of high school who assist students with their ICAP, graduation, and post-secondary planning.

AEROSPACE ENGINEERING | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 210131

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: Aerospace Engineering is a fall semester course that explores flight vehicles and systems, covering space flight (spacecraft, rockets, satellites) and atmospheric flight (airplanes, helicopters, missiles) and the application of these concepts to other fields of engineering, such as automotive aerodynamics and materials engineering. The physics of space travel and science of life in space will also be explored. Students wishing to enroll in Durango Aerospace for the first time are encouraged to take this course in the fall.

AGRIBUSINESS MANAGEMENT | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 182010

Grades: 11, 12

Prerequisites: Intro to Agriculture and FFA membership

Description: This course covers the basic concepts of starting your own business related to agriculture. Students will create a business plan, research business concerns, learn about basic financial planning and analysis, sources of funding, how to apply for funding, and setting up and marketing a business. Businesses studied included tack shops, feed stores, raising rodeo bulls, raising and training horses, starting a florist shop, and raising exotic fish (Japanese Koi). Students are encouraged to be both creative and rigorous in designing their business and analyzing profitability. Students will acquire skills applicable in any entrepreneurial venture.

AGRIBUSINESS ‐ WORKPLACE EXPERIENCE | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 182480

Grades: 11, 12

Prerequisites: Intro to Agriculture and FFA membership

Description: This course is designed for juniors and seniors to complete a supervised practical experience in the agricultural industry only. It consists of onsite observation and training in an agribusiness specific to the agricultural area of study of that student. The class will aid in confirming current educational and career goals and in obtaining hands-on experience. The student will be responsible for keeping a record book of daily site activities and expenses. Student must be able to document a minimum of 60 on-site hours and schedule a minimum of one on-site instructor visit per trimester. Daily sign-in with instructor is required before leaving campus for site experience.

AGRICULTURAL ENTEREPRENEURSHIP | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 182020

Grades: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Intro to Agriculture and FFA membership

Description: This course emphasizes basic economic concepts, basic financial concepts, and functions of business, business technology, and career preparation. Students will be exposed to various aspects of the agribusiness world. Such topics to be discussed are: marketing, management, economics, accounting, finance, business law, and entrepreneurship. Students will also be exposed to various careers in agribusiness. Furthermore, students are introduced to the steps and research necessary to create their own business. Projects include preparing a Business Plan, business cards, and making a Power Point presentation of their business to community members. Students will also serve as the development and management of the on-going and developing school based enterprises in the agricultural education program.

AGRICULTURAL LEADERSHIP | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 182030

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Intro to Agriculture and FFA membership

Description: Students in this class provide leadership and are responsible for the implementation of the FFA plan of activities, as well as the business administration and management of the DHS school farm. Students enrolled in this course will receive credit based on their work outside of school hours to accomplish FFA plan of activities and to provide care and maintenance of the school farm, and its related enterprises. Students will maintain a record book where they maintain a record of their time before school, after school and on weekends. Their record books will document their work to plan and implement FFA service project (2 per semester), FFA activities and travel plans (3‐4 per semester.) Students will also complete daily maintenance activities related to the school chickens, rabbits, attached and independent greenhouses, and garden plots. In addition these students will advise business decisions and manage the finances of the FFA Chapter with the supervision of the Teacher/ Advisor.

AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE 1 | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 51630

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Special Education or teacher recommendation

Description: Designed to introduce students to American Sign Language, American Sign Language I courses enable students to communicate with deaf persons through finger spelling, signed words, and gestures. Course topics may include the culture of and issues facing deaf people.

ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 30530

Grades: 11, 12

Prerequisites: Biology

Description: Anatomy and Physiology is an upper level science course for juniors and seniors who plan to attend college and specialize in science, medicine, or related fields. A detailed study of the structures and functions of the human body begins with a review of cell physiology and biochemistry, then advances into studies of histology and selected body systems. Students must master the use of the microscopes and other technologies, complete an independent research project and carry out an expanded, detailed mammalian dissection.

AP ART ‐ HISTORY OF ART | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 51530

Grades: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: None

Description: Students will complete a detailed and intensive college level survey of art history from Pre-History through the contemporary art world. Art of the non-European tradition is covered. Emphasis will be placed on understanding art within the context of social, political, and economic conditions throughout human history. Critical thinking, visual analysis, interpretive writing, and test-taking skills will also be emphasized.

AP BIOLOGY | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 30560

Grades: 10, 11,12

Prerequisites: Biology, Chemistry (can be taken concurrently)

Description: AP Biology is an introductory college level course organized around the four Big Ideas including: 1. Evolution 2. Cellular processes and energy 3. Genetics and information transfer 4. Biological Interactions. This course is designed to enable you to develop advanced inquiry and reasoning skills, such as designing a plan for collecting data, analyzing data, applying mathematical routines, and connecting concepts in and across domains. The result will be readiness for the study of advanced topics in subsequent college courses. This course requires that 25 percent of the instructional time will be spent in hands-on laboratory work, with an emphasis on inquiry based investigations that provide students with opportunities to apply the seven science practices. There are strong reading, writing, math and reasoning components. Time is required each day outside of class to work on AP Biology content.

AP CALCULUS AB | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 21240

Grades: 41193

Prerequisites: Precalculus

Description: Calculus is the study of functions and their behavior. Topics studied include limits, continuity, derivatives, mean value theorems, anti-derivatives and the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus. These will give the student powerful tools for understanding the behavior of functions, and will also provide students with the ability to solve problems in which the important quantities are in a state of continuous change.

AP CALCULUS BC | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 21250

Grades: 12

Prerequisites: AP Calculus AB

Description: This course is an extension of AP Calculus AB. Topics to be learned will be: parametric, polar and vector functions, techniques of anti-differentiation: partial fractions, trig substitution, integration by parts, improper integrals, applications of definite integrals, further study of differential equations, Euler's Method, and a study of sequences and series, including Taylor series and MacLaurin series.

AP CHEMISTRY | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 31060

Grades: 11, 12

Prerequisites: Biology and Chemistry (or teacher recommendation for missing prerequisites)

Description: AP Chemistry is designed to be the equivalent of the general chemistry course usually taken during the first college year. Students will attain a depth of understanding of fundamentals and a competence in dealing with chemical problems.

AP COMPUTER SCIENCE A | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 101570
Grades: 9, 10, 11 12
Prerequisites: Mathematics I or Algebra I
Description: AP Computer Science A is a full year course using the Java programming language to learn Object Oriented Programming. The goals of AP Computer Science A are to: design, implement, and analyze solutions to problems; use and implement commonly used algorithms; use standard data structures; develop and select appropriate algorithms and data structures to solve new problems; write solutions fluently in an object-oriented paradigm; write, run, test, and debug solutions in the Java programming language, utilizing standard Java library classes and interfaces from the AP Java subset; read and understand programs consisting of several classes and interacting objects; read and understand a description of the design and development process leading to such a program; understand the ethical and social implications of computer use.

AP COMPUTER SCIENCE PRINCIPLES | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 101571

Grades: 9, 10, 11 12

Prerequisites: Mathematics I or Algebra I

Description: AP Computer Science Principles introduces students to the foundational concepts of computer science and challenges them to explore how computing and technology can impact the world. With a unique focus on creative problem solving and real-world applications, AP Computer Science Principles prepares students for college and career. Whether it's 3-D animation, engineering, music, app development, medicine, visual design, robotics, or political analysis, computer science is the engine that powers the technology, productivity, and innovation that drives the world. The course will develop leaders in computer science fields and attract and engage students.

AP ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND COMPOSITION | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 10050

Grades: 11

Prerequisites: Letter of commitment.

Description: Following the College Board's suggested curriculum designed to parallel college-level English courses, AP English Language and Composition courses expose students to prose written in a variety of periods, disciplines, and rhetorical contexts. These courses emphasize the interaction of authorial purpose, intended audience, and the subject at hand, and through them, students learn to develop stylistic flexibility as they write compositions covering a variety of subjects that are intended for various purposes. The AP English Language and Composition course aligns to an introductory college-level rhetoric and writing curriculum, which requires students to develop evidence-based analytic and argumentative essays that proceed through several stages or drafts. Students evaluate, synthesize, and cite research to support their arguments. Throughout the course, students develop a personal style by making appropriate grammatical choices. Additionally, students read and analyze the rhetorical elements and their effects in non-fiction texts, including graphic images as forms of text, from many disciplines and historical periods.

AP ENGLISH LITERATURE AND COMPOSITION | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 10060

Grades: 12

Prerequisites: Letter of commitment.

Description: An AP Literature and Composition course engages students in the careful reading and critical analysis of imaginative literature. Through the close reading of selected texts, students deepen their understanding of the ways writers use language to provide both meaning and pleasure for readers. As they read, students consider a work's structure, style, and themes, as well as such smaller-scale elements as the use of figurative language, imagery, symbolism, and tone.

AP ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 32070

Grades: 9

Prerequisites: Letter of Commitment

Description: The goal of the AP Environmental Science 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. Environmental science is interdisciplinary; it embraces a wide variety of topics from different areas of study. Yet there are several major unifying constructs, or themes, that cut across the many topics included in the study of environmental science.

AP HUMAN GEOGRAPHY | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 40040

Grades: 9

Prerequisites:

Description: Following the College Board's suggested curriculum designed to parallel college-level Human Geography courses, AP Human Geography introduces students to the systematic study of patterns and processes that have shaped the ways in which humans understand, use, and alter the earth's surface. Students use spatial concepts and landscape analysis to examine human social organization and its environmental consequences and also learn about the methods and tools geographers use in their science and practice.

AP PSYCHOLOGY | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 42540

Grades: 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: Psychology is the scientific study of human behavior. This course will enable students to better understand human behavior and develop respect for individuals through the study of behavior. Areas of study will include human development, theories of learning and personality, emotions, motivation, and other topics of interest.

AP PHYSICS 1 | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 31550

Grades: 11, 12

Prerequisites: Biology, Algebra 2, and Precalculus concurrent enrollment recommended (teacher recommendation required for missing prerequisites)

Description: AP Physics 1 is an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course. Students cultivate their understanding of Physics through inquiry-based investigations as they explore topics such as Newtonian mechanics (including rotational motion), work, energy, and power, mechanical waves and sound, and introductory simple circuits. The rigor of AP Physics differs qualitatively from our general physics course with respect to the textbook used, the topics covered, and laboratory work done by students.

AP SPANISH | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 61120

Grades: 11, 12

Prerequisites: Spanish 3

Description: Designed by the College Board to parallel third-year college-level courses in Spanish Composition and Conversation, AP Spanish Language courses build upon prior knowledge and develop students' ability to understand others and express themselves (in Spanish) accurately, coherently, and fluently in both formal and informal situations. Students will develop a vocabulary large enough to understand literary texts, magazine/newspaper articles, films and television productions, and so on.

AP STATISTICS | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 22030

Grades: 11, 12

Prerequisites: Math 3

Description: AP Statistics emphasizes statistical sampling techniques and ways of describing the data collected, including ways to determine whether or not the data is clustered in a meaningful way. Also included will be normal probability distributions, hypothesis testing, confidence intervals, and a study of probability. This course is a common requirement for many college majors---not just math.

AP U.S. HISTORY | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 41040

Grades: 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: This course is designed to give highly capable and motivated students the opportunity to pursue college level studies, incorporating reading, critical thinking, independent work, writing, and four AP historical thinking skills and seven AP themes. We will begin the study in 1400s and end in 2000. Students will study the political, diplomatic, economic, social, and intellectual development of the United States.

AP WORLD HISTORY | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 40519

Grades: 10

Prerequisites:

Description: This course focus on the development of Western history, culture, institutions, philosophy, etc. from the European Renaissance, the Protestant Reformation, and the Scientific Revolution to the postmodern Western world of today. Other regions of the world will be examined when relevant and as time allows. The honors course utilizes the inquiry method of studying history. This method relies on the students learning how to interpret resources on their own and, ultimately, to interpret history for themselves.

AQUATIC SYSTEMS MANAGEMENT | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 183061

Grades: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: Areas of training in this class involve the care of fish and aquatic plant life, which is a developing industry worldwide. The history of aquaculture and how it pertains to the world will be studies. Aquaculture anatomy and physiology will also be studied. This class will cover aquaculture disease and parasites as well as fish biology and reproduction. Marketing of aqua cultural products will be explored. Knowledge and skills gained in this class will provide opportunities for advanced study at the college level or entry level employment in fisheries, water quality, and care of natural streams and lakes.

ART AND TECHNOLOGY | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 51691

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: None

Description: This course is for students interested in using the latest technologies to create art. This course uses a STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, math) based curriculum and is a great art course for any student who enjoys math and science. The course will introduce students to a variety of digital mediums such as computer programming, 3D printing, digital projection, video, and Arduino sensors/electronics. This art course emphasizes 2D/3D design and creative thinking. Each student will produce a digital portfolio of work that explores the student’s interests in digital art.

ART PORTFOLIO | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 51700

Grades: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: An Advanced class of any studio, i.e. Drawing-Advanced, Painting-Advanced, Watercolor-Advanced, Ceramics-Advanced, Digital Photo-Advanced or Teacher approval

Description: This course is intended for highly motivated, independent students who are seriously interested in the study of art. This course is not limited to students interested in painting and drawing only. Students can pursue studies within other studio courses such as ceramics, photography, painting, drawing, fashion design, jewelry and/or sculpture. Emphasis will be placed on the use of elements and principles to develop a body of work that addresses a personal visual interest or theme. Each student will be expected to produce a certain amount of art and develop both a traditional and digital portfolio. Portfolios will be formally presented at the end of the semester.

ATHLETIC TRAINING | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 140621

Grades: 11, 12

Prerequisites: None

Description: This course provides students with the knowledge and skills to understand and perform therapeutic tasks that would be designated by an athletic or fitness trainer. Topics covered may include taping and bandaging, proper use of protective padding, treatment modalities, anatomy and physiology, and medical terminology. Students may learn to measure cardiorespiratory endurance, muscular strength and endurance, flexibility, body composition, and blood pressure. More advanced topics may include injury assessment, the phases of healing, and the use of exercise and equipment to help in the reconditioning of injured athletes.

AUDIO/VISUAL PRODUCTION | Credits: .5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 11051

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Journalism

This semester course introduces students to video storytelling, digital reporting and broadcast television. As members of El Diablo Broadcasting, students will synthesize the various aspects of television production and formally present a mastery of the medium. News literacy, new values and the social role of media will be examined and used as the students make content decisions. El Diablo Broadcasting gives students the real-time experience of a deadline driven television and radio newsroom. Students rotate through newsroom jobs such as director, switch operator, editor, writer, producer, anchor, reporter and videographer. Students learn to write news and feature scripts, shoot and edit video to tell a story, organize and produce a newscast/podcast, work together as a broadcast news team to air live and taped broadcasts to the community. Students may take this course more than once for credit with instructor approval.

AVID 1 | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 220032

Grades: 9

Prerequisites: Application & interview

Description: AVID, Advancement Via Individual Determination, is a college readiness program to increase student learning and performance. It is designed to ensure preparedness for college and career by developing the habits and behaviors needed to succeed in rigorous curriculum. Students learn effective note-taking, assignment organization, critical reading, effective class discussion, and other college-readiness skills.

AVID 2 | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 220033

Grades: 10

Prerequisites: Application and interview

AVID 3 | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 220034

Grades: 11

Prerequisites: Application and interview

AVID 4 | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 220035

Grades: 12

Prerequisites: Application and interview

Description: AVID, Advancement Via Individual Determination, is a college readiness program to increase student learning and performance. It is designed to ensure preparedness for college and career by developing the habits and behaviors needed to succeed in rigorous curriculum. Along with continued critical reading, effective class discussion, and other college-readiness skills practice, students will have support in completing their college application essays, paperwork, and scholarships during the class.

BEGINNING SONGWRITING | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 51191

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Ability to play an instrument (piano or guitar)

Description: This course is designed to give the students an opportunity to study techniques of effective songwriting. The important elements of a song, formats of a song and songwriting structure will be taught. Students will first analyze songwriting structure of favorite songs and then progress to creating their own compositions in any contemporary style.

BIOLOGY | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 30510

Grades: 10

Prerequisites: Integrated Science

Description: Biology is an exciting, comprehensive study of the living world. Students who take Biology will be involved in a variety of laboratory experiences and students will learn about ecology, cell physiology, evolution, and molecular genetics. Students will be expected to take part in an extensive mammalian dissection and analysis. Student participation in discussions, labs and projects concerning human influences and current biological topics will be an important part of this course.

BRIDGE | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 220541

Grades: 11, 12

Prerequisites: NHS student OR successful completion of AVID 1, 2 or 3

Description: Bridge is a class where students work within the 9th and 10th grade AVID classroom to support the academic program and address student needs during the tutorial process.

CABINETMAKING | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 170070

Grades: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Woodworking

Description: With the knowledge and abilities acquired from Woodworking, students further their woodworking skills and confidence. Students will demonstrate the designing and construction of higher skill level projects throughout this course. Old and new techniques in woodworking will be utilized during the lab time. Practice in areas of design and the drawing of plans will be extended and deepened, beyond the introductory level.

CALCULUS 3 | Credits: 1.0 | Terms: 2 | Course #:

Grades: 11, 12

Prerequisites: AP Calculus BC

Description: This course is an extension of AP Calculus AB and BC and takes key concepts of calculus into three dimensions. Topics to be covered include vector, polar, and parametric functions in two and three dimensions, curves and surfaces in two and three dimensions, multivariable functions and their graphs, partial derivatives, analytic geometry, double and triple integrals, line integrals and applications, vector field properties, and crucial theorems of vector calculus.

CARPENTRY | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 170030

Grades: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Woodworking or Instructor approval

Description: Basic residential and commercial construction processes and skills learned in the Construction I class will be applied to simulated business oriented projects. Planning, designing, figuring bills of materials, bidding and shop-job site safety will be addressed. Students will have the opportunity to meet with local contractors to learn even more of what is required to become an employee of a contractor or to own a business in the trade.

CERAMICS | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 51591

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: None

Description: This course focuses on the basic techniques of working with clay. Students will learn hand building and wheel throwing along with glazing and decorative methods through various projects. After the foundational techniques of clay work are explored, students will move towards designing a self-directed project. Each project will use sketchbooks to create ideas for projects. The student as the artist, will explore and utilize the sketchbook as a planning tool and record of the development of their forms. Production and decoration of projects will be based on the elements of art and principles of design. Students will participate in oral presentations and critiques to develop the skills of assessing and appreciating art work of others as well as their own.

CERAMICS ‐ ADVANCED | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 51592

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Ceramics

Description: Students in this course will continue their studies in ceramics by building on the foundation started in Ceramics. Projects will become more complex as students explore hand building, wheel throwing, special glazing, and finishing techniques. Projects will be problem solving and inquiry based so students can choose the solution and direction for the assignment. The elements of art and principles of design will be stressed as the basis of creating each clay form. Students will utilize a variety of critique methods to improve upon their work and their ability to communicate about their work. Students will also be required to create and present a digital portfolio of their work.

CHEMISTRY | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2| Course #: 31010

Grades: 11, 12

Prerequisites: Biology, Geometry 2/Algebra 1B, (Math 2) and concurrent enrollment in Algebra 2 recommended

Description: Students will learn fundamental concepts of chemistry through both a theoretical and laboratory approach. Topics of study include Atomic Theory, Quantum Theory, chemical reactions, the mole and molarity, conservation of matter and energy, and thermochemistry. This course is designed to prepare students for chemistry in college.

CHILD AND ADOLESCENT DEVELOPMENT | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 170030

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: None

Description: The purpose of this course is to acquire knowledge and understanding of child and adolescent development necessary for strengthening the well-being of children and families. Content focuses on perspectives of human development, research and theories, understanding and nurturing development, and challenges to development.

CHINESE 1 | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 64010

Grades: 9, 10, 11 12

Prerequisites:

Description: Designed to introduce students to Chinese language and culture, Chinese I courses emphasize basic syntax, simple vocabulary, written characters, and spoken tones so that students can read, write, speak, and understand the language at a basic level within predictable areas of need, using customary courtesies and conventions. Chinese culture is introduced through the art, literature, customs, and history of Chinese-speaking people.

COLLEGE ALGEBRA READINESS AND SKILLS | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 20572

Grades: 12

Prerequisites: Math 1, Math 2, Math 3

Description: This course develops algebraic skills necessary for manipulating expressions and solving equations. Topics in the course include radicals, complex numbers, polynomials, factoring, rational expressions, quadratic equations, absolute value equations and inequalities, systems of linear equations, related applications, and math learning strategies. This course prepares students for College Algebra.

COLOURS | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 51111

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Audition/teacher recommendation

Description: Colours is a select choir of students who are highly motivated to excel in vocal performance. This group will perform at the high school at least once each trimester, in addition to singing throughout the community and at festivals. The program material will include music from all styles including contemporary, pop, classical, and jazz.

CONCERT CHOIR | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 51101

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: Concert Choir is open to all men and women who like to sing. This group will perform at the high school at least once each semester, as well as throughout the community and at various Colorado festivals. The program material will include music from all styles, including major choral works, madrigals, jazz, pop, and classical.

CREATIVE ART ‐ COMPREHENSIVE | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 51540

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: None

Description: Students will explore a wide variety of media and processes, art history, the elements of art and the principles of design. This course is recommended for all students who are considering any further study of art at the high school level, as it lays the foundation for all of the two and three dimensional art classes. Students will participate in oral presentations and critiques to develop the skills of assessing and appreciating art work of others as well as their own.

CREATIVE ART ‐ SCULPTURE | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 51580

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: None

Description: This course will introduce students to the development of three-dimensional forms through the use of basic materials, tools and construction methods. Many different media will be used for completing projects within the course. While exploring and developing the three-dimensional forms, the student will discover how to draw the viewer's eye to all parts of their constructed forms by using the artist's tools for communication: the elements of art and principles of design. Students will also participate in oral presentations and critiques to develop the skills of assessing and appreciating art work of others as well as their own.

CREATIVE WRITING | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 11040

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: The chief emphasis of the class is to foster free, creative, and imaginative expression in all forms of writing such as poetry, short story, drama, journals, letters and editorials. Students will share their writing and help one another in acquiring techniques and skills in writing.

CULINARY NUTRITION | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 186056

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: None

Description: The purpose of this course is to develop lifelong, healthy individuals with an understanding of healthy and nutritious preparation techniques utilizing various resources and skills. Emphasis is placed on implementing healthy nutritional choices, preparing nutrient-dense seasonal foods, sports nutrition, exploring careers related to culinary nutrition, and practicing wise consumer decisions.

DANCE FITNESS | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 80055

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: Dance Fitness provides students with experiences in one or several dance forms - both traditional and modern - and incorporates elements of lifetime fitness.

DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 51671

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: None

Description: This course is for anyone interested in learning the basics of digital photography. Students will use their digital cameras to take pictures and modify the images using Adobe Photoshop. This is an art course that emphasizes better picture taking, 2-D design and creative image making. Each student will produce a portfolio of work that explores their interests in photography.

DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY ‐ ADVANCED | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 51672

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Digital Photography

Description: This course is for students that have completed Digital Photography and want to continue improving their digital photography skills and producing creative photographs. Students will learn additional techniques for editing (including learning Adobe Lightroom), manipulating and finishing their photographs and produce a portfolio of work that addresses a focused interest in photography. Students who are seriously interested in photography are encouraged to repeat this course for credit.

DRAFTING | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 211070

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: A beginning drafting course that teaches the fundamentals of drafting and mechanical drawing. This course is designed to introduce concepts and practices of the discipline of architecture and pre-engineering.

DRAWING | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 51561

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: None

Description: This class will teach students how to draw what they see, how to create the illusion of light and shadow, how to use linear perspective and how to render accurate proportions. A wide variety of techniques and media will be explored including graphite pencils, charcoal, pastels, pen and ink, and colored pencils. Students will participate in oral presentations and critiques to develop the skills of assessing and appreciating art work of others as well as their own.

DRAWING ‐ ADVANCED | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 51562

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Drawing

Description: Students will engage in visual problem solving, striving to reach new levels of understanding and expand imaginative thought. Students will build on the foundations from Beginning Drawing, with more emphasis on self-expression and use of advanced techniques. Students will utilize a variety of critique methods to improve upon their ability to communicate about their work and will be required to create and present a digital portfolio of their work from the class.

DURANGO AEROSPACE | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 221061

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Application & interview

Description: Durango Aerospace is a spring semester course in which students take part in a rigorous aerospace industry simulation while exploring such topics as astrophysics, sustainable agriculture, technical writing, psychology, architecture, graphic design, automation and marketing. Students will apply their learning to create the annual qualifying proposal, which is submitted to NASA judges. Because the request for proposal is different each year, this course may be repeated for credit.

ECONOMICS | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 42010

Grades: 9, 10

Prerequisites: None

Description: Students will examine the concepts related to macroeconomics as well as explore Financial Intelligence (FI), arguably the most important skill one needs for independence. Students will navigate their way through markets, credit and mortgage products. They will explore the concepts of Supply and Demand and their influence on daily life. They will evaluate the role of the United States as a leader in economic development around the world.

ENGLISH 1 | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 10091

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Special Education or teacher recommendation

Description: English 1 is a transition - based class, focusing on reading, writing, and speaking skills needed to communicate and access community resources. Students will learn to identify and give meaning to different community and safety signs. Students will also apply different reading, writing, and/or speaking techniques learned in this course to communicate with community members and access services within the community.

ENGLISH 2 | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 10092

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Special Education or teacher recommendation

Description: English 2 is a transition - based class, focusing on building essential skills in reading, for a variety of purposes, comprehending functional vocabulary, learning different forms of informational writing and how to use writing strategies in a functional manner. Students will also apply different reading, writing, and/or speaking techniques learned in this course to communicate with community members and access services within the community.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNER 1 | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 100891

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Teacher placement - score of 1 or 2 on the WAPT.

Description: The ELL classes have been designed specifically to meet the learning needs of students whose home language is something other than English. Systematic, direct instruction, and a multi-sensory approach will be used. Students will learn the English phonetic system, the application of this system to words, both spoken and written, and they will develop academic English. All students in this class will be required to participate in the state-mandated Colorado English Language Proficiency Assessment (CELA) that is given in January of each academic year.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNER 2 | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 100892

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Teacher placement - score of 2 or 3 WAPT.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNER 3 | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 100893

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Teacher placement - score of 4 or 5 on the WAPT.

FASHION DESIGN & ILLUSTRATION | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 51564

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: None

Description: This course is an exciting introduction to the world of fashion. Students start by exploring the history of fashion up to the contemporary designers setting the trends for todays styles. Students then learn the elements of basic fashion illustration and sewing techniques to develop garments and accessories of their own design which are featured in an end of semester fashion show. Students will participate in oral presentations and critiques to develop the skills of assessing and appreciating art work of others as well as their own.

FOREST & FIRE ECOLOGY | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 185041

Grades: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Introduction to Agriculture

Description: Forest & Fire Ecology is tailored to students interested in careers in forestry or fire science. It is an introduction to forest ecology, forest management, forest health, watersheds and wildfire behavior. Students will use the Project Learning Tree and National Fire Sciences Lab curriculum.

FRENCH 1 | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 61210

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: In the course, French is taught through a variety of traditional and non-traditional teaching strategies. Communication is at the heart of language study! Games, role-playing, and story-telling activities will be integrated into daily lessons to encourage and enhance communication skills. Students will have ample opportunities to interact in French!! Lessons and activities will be designed to focus on listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in the target language.

FRENCH 2 | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 61220

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: French 1

Description: This course is a continuation of French 1. Students will continue to learn French through a variety of traditional and non-traditional teaching strategies. Students will be given vocabulary, functions, structures, and cultural information necessary to communicate in French about a variety of everyday situations designed to appeal to teenagers.

FRENCH 3 | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 61230

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: French 2

Description: In this course, students will continue to hone their listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in French. The students will explore the French language and culture through authentic readings, songs, films, and francophone realia. French 3 students will also deepen their knowledge of the fine points of advanced grammar through a variety of traditional and non-traditional teaching strategies. Key vocabulary and sentence structures are recycled so that students can attain mastery of the concepts.

FRENCH 4 | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 61240

Grades: 12

Prerequisites: French 1, 2, 3

Description: French 4 is intended for students in their fourth year of study of French. The students will embark on a meaningful study of six topical and cultural themes: Global Challenges, Science and Technology, Contemporary Life, Personal and Public Identities, Families and Communities, and Beauty and Aesthetics. These themes serve as springboards for practice of interpersonal, interpretive and presentational communicative skills within interesting and relevant contexts. The course guides the students to explore culture and events in both contemporary and historical settings and to examine products and practices of the target culture with regard to their perspectives. Reading, writing, speaking and listening skills are all emphasized throughout the various themes with the overall goal of rendering these skills more natural, accurate, and fluid.

FRESHMAN CHOIR | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 51102

Grades: 9

Prerequisites:

Description: Freshman Choir is open to all freshmen, both men and women who like to sing. This group will perform at the High School at least once each semester, as well as throughout the community and at various Colorado festivals. The program material will include music from all styles including contemporary, pop, classical, and jazz.

GENERAL BAND | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 51010

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: General Band is geared toward students playing Wind instruments. In General Band, students perform as a marching band in the fall and as a concert band throughout the rest of the year. Performances include, but are not limited to, concerts, marching and concert band contests in and out of state, solo and ensemble contests, parades and various athletic events. Students enrolled are eligible and encouraged to audition for various local, regional, and national honor bands.

GENERAL HORTICULTURE | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 180520

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Introduction to Agriculture

Description: Students will study plant life, including wild, garden, and greenhouse varieties. They will have the chance to see exotic and aquatic species in the school greenhouse, visit local greenhouses and gardens, and set up plant growing projects themselves. They will also study garden design, landscape design including water structures such as ponds and waterfalls, and explore careers in horticulture. Floral design including both dried and living arrangements will be included. The applications of modern scientific knowledge to plant culture will be discussed.

GREENHOUSE MANAGEMENT | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 180520

Grades: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Introduction to Agriculture

This is semester one of a year-long course to give sophomore, junior and senior students practical knowledge of the biology of plants. Areas covered include plant and soil science, plant cells, physiology, growth, reproduction, genetics, environmental factors, soils, soil management, and plant science technology. Students will also be involved in the FFA and maintain a Supervised Agriculture Experience program. Focus of this class is for students interested in working in an agriculture field; it will also be an opportunity for students who are interested in pursuing a college degree in agronomy, soil science, and environmental science. For credit, students must enroll in Landscape Design during semester two.

GUIDANCE ASSISTANT | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 220521

Grades: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: By application only

Description: Guidance Assistant provide students with the opportunity to work in the campus guidance office. Duties may include typing, filing, record-keeping, assisting students, answering the telephone, and making copies. Students may also act as guides to new students. This course emphasize appropriate work attitudes, human relations, and proper office procedures.

GUITAR | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 51080

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: This course is designed for beginning students who want to learn how to play the guitar. The class will cover chording, note reading, and tablature reading. Such guitar styles as blues, ballads, rock, folk, and jazz will be explored.

GUITAR ‐ ADVANCED | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 51081

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Guitar or teacher approval

Description: Guitar-Advanced is designed for the student who already has a basic knowledge of chords, strumming, tablature, scales, and beginning finger picking or lead playing. Each student will choose specific goals to be accomplished and may be required to purchase some of the materials necessary to reach these goals. More advanced rhythm, note reading, tablature, and bar chords will be covered. ature, and bar chords will be covered.

HEALTH EDUCATION | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 80511

Grades: 9

Prerequisites:

Description: Through the understanding of the information that comes from the class lessons in Health, our students will make educated decisions regarding their lifelong wellness. Students will become involved in the topics of health through research, interaction and discussion in the classroom. Research will be directed toward diseases of the human body and students will make use of the department’s new human performance lab to test and evaluate fitness levels among various groups.

HERITAGE LANGUAGE CLASS | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 061061

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: Native Spanish speakers will improve knowledge of their home language and learn to value their bilingual heritage.

Students will use classroom immersion in the heritage language to:

Build comprehensive language skills.
Build connections between students and family members through the oral histories project, in which students conduct interviews with family and community members.
Foster an appreciation for various genres of texts, including fiction, poetry, current events, and contemporary and traditional film and arts.
Cultivate a love and appreciation for world cultures.
Build a lifelong connection to the ideas, history and cultures of other languages.
Foster an appreciation for world cultural traditions, holidays, dance, food, music and art.
Nurture friendships by building strong classroom bonds.

HOSPITALITY AND TOURISM MARKETING | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 121590

Grades: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: Hospitality and Tourism Marketing courses introduce students to and help them refine marketing and management functions and tasks that can be applied in food service, lodging, tourism, and recreation careers. Students will: Analyze the theoretical marketing processes and the strategies of product development, pricing, promotion and distribution with a focus on hospitality and tourism marketing, demonstrate marketing competencies through the use of hospitality and tourism marketing role-plays, apply the marketing processes and strategies to business and the individual consumer, develop hands-on projects using marketing principles with emphasis on career opportunities in hospitality and tourism marketing, invite local and national guest speakers (via speakerphone or Skype) to our classroom to discuss marketing career opportunities in the greater 4 Corners region.

INDEPENDENT LIVING 1 | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 222061

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Special Education or teacher recommendation

Description: This a transition- based class that focuses on functional independent living skills, such as cooking, cleaning, shopping, budgeting, personal finances,accessing transportation, accessing community and other skills needed to live as independently as possible.

INDEPENDENT LIVING 2 | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 222062

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Special Education or teacher recommendation

Description: This is a transition-based class, focusing on functional skills needed in order to live as independently as possible. These skills include, cooking, laundry, home safety, and cleaning.

INTRODUCTION TO AGRICULTURE AND NATURAL RESOURCES | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 180010

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: Students will begin to establish a career path for high school and beyond. They will develop an individualized Supervised Agriculture Experience Program (SAEP) and be introduced to FFA, a co-curricular agricultural student leadership organization. Animal Science, Ag Business, parliamentary procedure, FFA, landscaping techniques, record keeping, public speaking skills, leadership qualities and career opportunities will be explored. Students will have the opportunity to start a record book enabling them to earn their FFA Greenhand Degree - SAEs may consist of livestock to show at the county fair, production agriculture or agriculturally related jobs. All information can be used in developing and presenting the FFA or SAE Career Portfolio.

INTRODUCTION TO BUSINESS AND MARKETING | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 120510

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: None

Description: Introduction to Business and Marketing gives students a chance to explore many aspects and careers within the world of business in a fun, engaging manner. Students will gain and learn to apply knowledge in the following areas: Focus on the operation of business in the United States, develop a basic understanding of the fundamentals of the economy, the business cycle, marketing, management, tools of business, the financial system, and social responsibility, understand and compete in a stock market game while also gaining a basic understanding of long-term investing, and develop and present a basic marketing plan for their own small business including logo, website, and facebook page.

INTRODUCTION TO EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 191531

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: None

Description: Provides an introduction to Early Childhood Education. Includes the eight key areas of professional knowledge: Child Growth and Development; Health, Nutrition and Safety; Developmentally Appropriate Practices; Guidance; Family and Community Relationships; Diversity; Professionalism; Administration and Supervision. This course focuses on childhood from birth to eight years old.

INTRODUCTION TO DRAMA | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 50530

Grades: 9, 10, 11 12

Prerequisites:

Description: Introduction To Drama is an exploratory course designed to integrate acting and technical skill; it is a prerequisite for other acting courses. In addition to developing vocal, movement, memorization, auditioning, and improvisational skills, students are introduced to basic Stanislavskian and other acting theory, character development and play criticism. Students are required to see the school play which is onstage during the semester.

INTRODUCTION TO ENGINEERING DESIGN | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2| Course #: 210061

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: Introduction to Engineering is a year-long class that introduces the basics of mechanical and structural engineering and robotics through extensive use of hands-on projects. Woven throughout the course are technical writing and drawing skills, statistical analysis of prototypes and quality control processes. Students will explore the various specialties within engineering, apply the engineering design process, and develop their collaboration and communication skills through group and individual projects.

INTRODUCTION TO JOURNALISM | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 111043

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: This course provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to produce the school newspaper, yearbook, literary magazine, or other printed publication. Students may gain experience in several components (writing, editing, layout, production, and so on) or may focus on a single aspect while producing the publication.

JAZZ ENSEMBLE | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 51051

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: This course is open to all students in grades 9-12 who have a desire to learn how to play a musical instrument. The purpose of this course is to enable students to develop fundamental basic skills on wind or percussion instruments through the refinement and performance of jazz band literature.

JAZZ ENSEMBLE‐ADVANCED | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 51052

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Jazz Ensemble or Teacher Recommendation

Description: Jazz Ensemble is an advanced, performance-oriented group that studies and plays a wide variety of musical styles, from traditional to contemporary, jazz, Latin, rock, funk, fusion, and beyond. Jazz theory and improvisation techniques will be studied in depth and utilized through rehearsal and performance. Performances include school concerts, community events and jazz band contests and festivals throughout the state. Basic instrumentation includes, but is not limited to 2 alto saxes, 2 tenor saxes, 1 baritone sax, 4 trumpets, 4 trombones, 1 bass trombone, piano/keys, guitar, vibes/percussion, bass, drum set.

JEWELRY | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 51660

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: In this course students learn how to design and produce highly crafted and aesthetically pleasing jewelry. Students will explore various materials, tools and techniques with regard to metal, clay and glass fusing. After students explore basic skills in the various media students will start to design their own groupings of jewelry pieces. Stringing, mounting and fasioning our own findings will allow for final presentation of student's pieces.

JOURNALISM | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 111010

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: Students in this class are responsible for the publication and distribution of the monthly student newspaper, El Diablo. Students learn reporting, editing, researching and layout skills, as well as photography, advertising and production. Students are required to do high quality work on a strict deadline.

JOURNALISM AND BROADCASTING | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 111480

Grades: 11, 12

Prerequisites: Journalism and Audio/Visual and/or Publications Broadcasting

Description: In this year long course students will be the lead editors and producers on the El Diablo media team. They will run the real-world, student-run newsroom that produces content for the student news magazine, online student site, and broadcast network. Student will coordinate efforts to organize, edit, design and produce news, feature, and opinion packages. Students will also become responsible and proficient in their use of social media and their civic duty to identify and analyze fair, balanced and true information. Students will specialize and achieve mastery in specific areas a mangers or editors in their field of choice. Media literacy, law, ethics and professional and ethical presentation and communication will be cornerstones of study. Students may take this course more than once for credit with instructor approval.

JOURNALISM AND BROADCASTING WORKPLACE EXPERIENCE | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 11148

Grades: 11, 12

Prerequisites: Journalism and Audio/Visual and/or Publications Broadcasting

Description: This semester course provides students an opportunity to gain workplace experience at the Durango Herald, KDUR, KSUT, Durango Magazine, The Telegraph, or the Fort Lewis College Publication. Students must apply and interview with the particular place of work.

JOURNALISM LEADERSHIP | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 111011

Grades: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: El Diablo Editors Only or Teacher Approval

Description: Students in this class provide leadership and are responsible for the publication of the monthly student newspaper, El Diablo.

LANDSCAPE DESIGN | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 180541

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Greenhouse Management

Description: This course is the follow up to Greenhouse Management on the Plant Science pathway. It is designed to introduce students to the opportunities in the landscape industry. Students will be exposed to the design aspect of landscaping and preparing their own landscape design. Students will also be exposed to various types of landscape construction and maintenance, nursery operation and landscape management practices, which will prepare them to select appropriate plant materials and to design, install and maintain interior and exterior plantings and hardscapes. Equipment and facilities maintenance is also covered and students will be involved in preparing and installing their own irrigation system. Finally, students might be given the opportunity to do an internship with a local landscape company in Durango. Throughout, the focus will be on the many careers in the landscape industry. Since this class is part of a complete agriculture program, students enrolled in the course are also members of FFA and have the opportunity for a supervised agricultural experience (SAE).

LANGUAGE ARTS 1 | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 10011

Grades: 9

Prerequisites:

Description: Language Arts 1 combines the reading of short stories, novels, poems, and drama with writing in varied genres and the applied study of grammar and vocabulary to assist students in building essential skills. Through reading, writing, grammar, and vocabulary study, skills in speaking and listening, study and research, and critical reading and thinking are strengthened.

LANGUAGE ARTS 1 ‐ HONORS | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 10019

Grades: 9

Prerequisites:

Description: This course is designed for students who have already demonstrated proficient and advanced skills in English and who are motivated to challenge and improve their skills. It focuses on studying various literature (short stories, poetry, drama, and novels), writing skills, vocabulary, and grammar. Through these studies, students will learn and apply techniques for literary analysis and oral

communication.

LANGUAGE ARTS 2 | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 10021

Grades: 10

Prerequisites: Language Arts 1

Description: Language Arts 2 will focus on building the essential skills in reading and comprehending literature in vocabulary, writing, critical thinking, speaking, listening, and research skills. Quality literary selections will aid in the development of literary appreciation. A comprehensive writing program will review the personal narrative essay and develop skills in various genres including the formal essay and the persuasive essay.

LANGUAGE ARTS 2 ‐ HONORS | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 10029

Grades: 10

Prerequisites: Language Arts 1 or Language Arts 1 Honors

Description: This course will include an in-depth study of grammar, writing and literature. Grammar study will strengthen understanding of the English language, which will be applied to improve writing and speaking skills. Students will refine their ability to write coherent compositions. They will also learn new sentence structures and stylistic devices, as well as the requirements of formal persuasive writing and narrative writing. Through the study of literature, students will learn skills involved in literary analysis.

LANGUAGE ARTS 3 | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 10031

Grades: 11

Prerequisites: Language Arts 2

Description: Language Arts 3 combines the reading of short stories, novels, drama, and non-fiction and the writing of literary analyses, persuasive and personal narrative essays, as well as short research papers. Through reading, writing, grammar, and vocabulary study, skills in speaking and listening, study and research and critical reading and thinking are strengthened. The class also integrates speaking, listening, critical thinking, and research. College credit is available for this course.

LANGUAGE ARTS 4 | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 10041

Grades: 12

Prerequisites: Language Arts 3

Description: Courses blend composition and literature into a cohesive whole as students write critical and comparative analyses of selected literature, continuing to develop their language arts skills. Typically, students primarily write multi-paragraph essays, but they may also write one or more major research papers. This course is available for college credit.

LANGUAGE ARTS LAB | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 10093

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Special Education or teacher recommendation

Description: This course is designed to provide students with functional literacy skills in order to live as independently as possible.

LANGUAGE ARTS SUPPORT | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 19991

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Special Education or teacher recommendation

Description: This course is designed to provide 9th and 10th grade students with academic support, content specific literacy instruction, organizational assistance and study skills.

LEGAL SYSTEMS | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 41650

Grades: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: This course explores teenagers’ rights and responsibilities in our current society, as well as civil rights and the basic elements of the judicial system. Students will learn from guest speakers, hands on activities, field trips, and community involvement.

LIBRARY ASSISTANT | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 220531

Grades: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: The student assists the library staff with various functions such as checking in and checking out of materials, processing new materials, shelving and other tasks. The student will also learn other library skills such as reading promotion and cataloging.

LIFE DRAWING | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 51563

Grades: 9, 10, 11 12

Prerequisites: None

Description: This course is for the student who is interested in figure drawing. Students will learn how to accurately draw portraits and figures from various viewpoints. A variety of media such as graphite, pastel, charcoal and ink will be used. Students will work from live models as well as other resources. Students will participate in oral presentations and critiques to develop the skills of assessing and appreciating art work of others as well as their own.

LIFETIME RECREATION SPORTS | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 80020

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: None

Description: Lifetime Recreation Sports provides students with knowledge, experience, and an opportunity to develop skills in more than one recreational/team sport. Some of the sports include, but are not limited to: tennis, basketball, Frisbee golf, badminton, fishing, archery, pickle ball, and indoor climbing.

MARKETING IN ACTION | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 121991

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: Marketing in Action is a rigorous introduction to Marketing, International Business, Management, Entrepreneurship and Finance. Using technology and traditional Marketing techniques, students will research and produce an 18-30 page academic paper and presentation for the class. Students have the option of becoming DECA members and presenting their project at the DECA State Leadership Conference, held annually in late February at the Broadmoor Hotel in Colorado Springs. Here they will compete against students from around the state, with a chance to advance to the DECA International Career Development Conference (locations vary annually). Additional fees apply for DECA members.

MARKETING WORK EXPERIENCE | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 121980

Grades: 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: Student must be concurrently enrolled in Marketing Work Experience Class in order to enroll in MWE internship. Students will: earn school credits for working under the supervision of an experienced supervisor and instructor/coordinator, document work hours in order to earn the proper amount of credit, arrange for employer evaluations of job performance, become eligible for optional early release from school to work in a paid position locally.

MATHEMATICS I | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 20611

Grades: 9

Prerequisites: Successful completion of 8th grade mathematics

Description: Mathematics I is a year-long course focusing on geometry. The first semester of the course emphasizes transformational geometry and congruence. Students will experiment with transformations in the plane and understand congruence in terms of rigid motion. In addition, students prove geometric theorems and make geometric constructions. Second semester emphasizes properties of dilations and similarity. Students will be expected to prove theorems related to similarity of shapes and understand that similarity is foundational to trigonometry. Students will apply properties of dilation, similarity, trigonometric functions, and the Pythagorean Theorem to solve real world problems. In addition, students will solve problems using area, surface area, and volume formulas.

MATHEMATICS I SUPPORT | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 20614

Grades: 9

Prerequisites: Teacher recommendation

Description: This course is designed to provide students with additional support for their Mathematics I class. Students will receive direct instruction for the skills and concepts necessary to achieve competency in the Colorado Academic Standards and Mathematics I.

MATHEMATICS II | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 20612

Grades: 10

Prerequisites: Mathematics I

Description: Mathematics II is an in-depth study of linear, quadratic, and exponential functions. Algebraic concepts include rate of change, domain, range, transformations, and multiple representations of functions. Multiple representations include: graphs, tables, equations, and situations. Significant skills addressed are: equation solving, graphing functions, factoring, completing the square, quadratic formula, and properties of exponents. Logarithms and logarithmic functions will be introduced.

MATHEMATICS II SUPPORT | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 20615

Grades: 10

Prerequisites: Teacher recommendation

Description: This course is designed to provide students with additional support for Mathematics II. Students will receive direct instruction for the skills and concepts necessary to achieve competency in the Colorado Academic Standards and Mathematics II.

MATHEMATICS III | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 20613

Grades: 11

Prerequisites: Mathematics II

Description: Mathematics III is a year‐long course that will continue the work of Mathematics 2 with the use of real data and modeling using families of functions. This course emphasizes modeling real situations using arithmetic and geometric sequences, linear, exponential, power, root, logarithmic, polynomial, rational, and trigonometric functions. Students will expand on knowledge of quadratics by studying the four conic sections. Students will revisit logarithmic functions as inverse to exponential functions and practice properties of exponents and logarithms as part of the work of the course. Geometric concepts include coordinate geometry and the study of circles and their properties. Students will also complete a unit of study on statistical methods that take variability into account and support informed decisions through quantitative studies designed to answer specific questions.

MATHEMATICS III SUPPORT | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 20616

Grades: 11

Prerequisites: Teacher recommendation

Description: This course is designed to provide students with additional support for their Mathematics III class. Students will receive direct instruction for the skills and concepts necessary to achieve competency in the Colorado Academic Standards and Mathematics III.

MIDDLE EASTERN STUDIES | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 40651

Grades: 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: This course will examine the politics, culture, economics, geography, and religion of the Middle East region. The actions and events occurring in the Middle East become increasingly more and more relevant to our day-to-day lives. Therefore it is necessary for our students to understand the history and background of what is happening and some of the historical underpinnings that impact/affect those events.

MODERN U.S. HISTORY | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 41030

Grades: 11

Prerequisites:

Description: This course covers the social, political,religious, intellectual, technoloigcal and economic developments in (and characteristics of) U.S. history from 1865-present. Students will read, write, and speak about the causes and effects of pivotal events in U.S. history (ex. Industrialization, Great Depression) and the continuities and change in U.S. history (ex. restrictions and expansions of civil rights). Students will analyze varied perspectives on historical events and issues, as well take and defend positions on those events and issues.

MULTIFITNESS | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 80052

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: This course is designed for the serious student/student athlete who wishes to increase overall fitness and improve body composition (body fat %). Students will combine weight training, aerobic workouts, pilates, and plyometrics to improve speed, overall strength, endurance and core development. Flexibility will be developed through stretching activities.

MUSIC COMPOSITION & TECHNOLOGY | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 51192

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Previous musical experience

Description: Music Composition will cover basic music theory as applied to composition, including rhythm, harmony, musical forms and analysis. Students will explore the world of music technology from its origins in history to today’s state of the art software and computer applications. Students will learn about the physics of sound, sequencing, synthesizers, recording techniques and equipment, sound mixing, and music writing software. Projects throughout the trimester will demonstrate their knowledge of all of these different aspects of composition and technology.

MUSIC THEORY | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 51130

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: Music Theory examines the various elements of music, melody, harmony, rhythm, texture, form; and the ways in which these individual elements combine and interact to create a piece of music. This is an introductory course in the fundamentals of music, which involves learning major and minor scales, key signatures, intervals, and triads. It also includes the study of time signatures, various rhythms, and note values through rhythmic and melodic dictation.

OFFICE ASSISTANT | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 220511

Grades: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: By application only

Description: Office Assistant provide students with the opportunity to work in campus offices, developing skills related to clerical office work. Duties may include typing, filing, record‐keeping, receiving visitors, answering the telephone, and making copies. This course emphasize appropriate work attitudes, human relations, and proper office procedures.

ORCHESTRA | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 51040

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Prior musical experience on violin, viola, cello, or bass.

Description: This class is designed for all classical string instrumentalists. Advanced string orchestra literature from the Baroque to the 20th century will be covered. Activities will include several performances, participation in various festivals, contests and solo and ensemble. In addition to performances, students will be eligible to audition for various regional, state, and national honor orchestras.

OUTDOOR EDUCATION | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 80041

Grades: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: This is a rigorous and challenging course that engages students in many outdoor activities. The activities we participate in are seasonal and depend on facilities availability, weather and environmental conditions and include: hiking, backpacking, outdoor living, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, rafting, mountain biking, kayaking, rock climbing, and indoor climbing (on our new 18' X 24" climbing wall). Outdoor leadership, survival, and orienteering skills are all emphasized and practiced in each activity. A major project is required along with one overnight backpacking trip.

PAINTING | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 51571

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: None

Description: This introductory painting class will explore basic painting techniques in tempera, and acrylic. Students will complete several paintings which explore how to mix and use color, how to apply value realistically, how to communicate ideas and themes through visual images as well as exploring various cultures, art styles and master artists. Students will participate in oral presentations and critiques to develop the skills of assessing and appreciating art work of others as well as their own.

PAINTING ‐ ADVANCED | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 51572

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Painting or Watercolor

Description: Students will continue their painting studies through acrylic, oil and/or watercolor by building upon the foundations acquired in either Painting or Watercolor. The emphasis of Painting-Advanced is to develop self-expression and creative problem solving skills through the advanced use of materials and processes. At the same time, a strong focus will be placed on developing student ownership of their work throughout the entire creative process. Students will utilize a variety of critique methods to improve upon their work and their ability to communicate about their work. Students will also be required to create and present a digital portfolio of their work.

PARTICULAR TOPICS IN CARPENTRY | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 170050

Grades: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Cabinetmaking or instructor approval

Description: This class is designed to take students further with their skills and apply them to the designing and building of cabinets, furniture and other fine woodworking projects. Business oriented and simulated processes will be applied in this course.

PEER INFLUENCE | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 220542

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Teacher recommendation

Description: Peer Influence will provide students the opportunity to learn about disabilities, diversity, and acceptance. Students will support students with disabilities in their classes and assist them by helping them complete class assignments and participate in class. Students will receive assistance from the Exceptional Student Services staff. It is very important that students are willing to ask questions and give staff feedback to ensure a successful experience. You will be provided with the necessary materials and information for the specific student(s) and class(es) at that time.

PERCUSSION ENSEMBLE | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 51062

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: Percussion Ensemble course is intended to develop students’ technique for playing percussion instruments in a small ensemble group. The Percussion Ensemble course covers multiple genres and styles. There will be performances throughout the semester.

PERSONAL FINANCE LITERACY | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 21571

Grades: 12

Prerequisites:

Description: The focus of Personal Financial Literacy is the real-world application of computational skills to solve consumer based problems. You will gain budgeting, planning, and life skills while learning to use spreadsheets to manage data and solve problems. Basic arithmetic principles and processes are reviewed and practiced with topics such as banking, saving, investing, home expenses, taxes, budgeting, check writing, benefits/risks of credit cards, and insurance. This course will teach wise money management in these areas. This course is available for college credit.

PHILOSOPHY | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 43060

Grades: 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: This course introduces students to many major philosophers of Western and Eastern thought. Students will read and interpret philosophy and evaluate its significance for the modern world. Students will also learn strategies of logic and will learn to write personal expressions of philosophy. The course will require a great amount of reading and writing and will often rely on class discussion to help in the understanding of philosophic issues.

PHYSICS | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 31510

Grades: 11, 12

Prerequisites: Biology and Algebra 2 (concurrent enrollment)

Description: Physics is a study of the rules of nature; the way things connect together. The concepts of physics are presented in plain English and illustrated mathematically with equations. The equations of physics are guides to thinking, not just recipes for solving problems. The understanding of concepts comes first, followed by laboratory experiences where appropriate. Topics include kinematics, dynamics, energy, electricity. An understanding of the rules of physics elevates students? appreciation as they interact with the physical world.

PIANO/KEYBOARD | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 51071

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: Piano/Keyboard introduces students to the fundamentals of music and basic keyboard techniques such as scales, chords, and melodic lines. May also include more advanced keyboard techniques. Basic music theory will also be taught as it applies to notation for piano music.

PIANO/KEYBOARD‐ ADVANCED | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 51072

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Piano/Keyboarding

Description: Piano/Keyboard-Advanced is designed for the students who already have the basic knowledge of piano chords, scales, and beginning playing. More advanced rhythm, note reading, chords, and literature will be covered. Students will have to perform on a recital at the end of the semester.

PLANT SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 180521

Grades: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Introduction to Agriculture and Natural Resources

Description: This year long course introduces students to the principles of plant science as it relates to horticulture. It emphasizes the application of plant sciences to the propagation, improvement, culture, and utilization of horticultural plants. This course will introduce the area of ornamental horticulture and landscape technology. Through FFA membership students will expand their knowledge about life skills, including the promotion of cooperative attitudes among all people and of healthy life styles. By learning how to run an efficient meeting, students will also increase their ability to communicate effectively. Students will further develop their entrepreneurial skills through their Supervised Agricultural Experience.

PLAY PRODUCTION | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 50971

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: This course provides students with a way of earning credit for their hours that they put into the theatre. This course also acts as an independent study for the students to work with their mentor and really get advice on a one-one basis. The student also gets to explore many different aspects of theatre through actually performing/designing/teching for an audience.

PRECALCULUS | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 21100

Grades: 11, 12

Prerequisites: Successful completion of Mathematics III or Instructor Approval based on assessment of skills

Description: Precalculus is a thorough development of equations, functions, their graphs, domains, ranges, and composites of functions. Families of functions studied include: exponential, logarithmic, polynomial, rational, trigonometric. Relevant applications offer the opportunity to apply the learning of each of the family of functions. Trigonometry is the study of ratios based on similarity of right triangles using both degree and radian angle measure in the unit circle. Students study trigonometric equations and the applications of periodic functions in a wide variety of fields. The law of sines and the law of cosines are used to solve for unknowns in triangles.

PRINCIPLES OF ENGINEERING | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 210040

Grades: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Math 2 or Introduction to Engineering

Description: Principles of Engineering is a yearlong course that is more rigorous than Introduction to Engineering, incorporating force vector analysis, load calculations, performance predictions, etc. into more complex hands-on projects. Topics include architectural engineering, manufacturing processes, materials properties, 3D printing and hydraulics/pneumatics, as well as revisiting mechanical and structural engineering with added abstraction. Students may take this course without first taking Introduction to Engineering if they have successfully completed Math 2 or higher and have a strong interest in engineering.

PROSTART I | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 21004

Grades: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Culinary Nutrition

Description: ProStart is a two-year high school restaurant and foodservice management curriculum that blends classroom learning with mentored work experience. ProStart gives students the chance to explore career opportunities and gain the skills needed to operate and manage a foodservice operation by pairing classroom learning with on-the-job experience.

PSYCHOLOGY | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 42540

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: None

Description: Psychology is the scientific study of behavior and mental processes. This semester-long course will focus on why humans think, feel, and behave the way they do. Major units of study included history of psychology, research methods, development (language, etc.), learning, how the brain works, altered states of consciousness, and psychological disorders.

PUBLIC SPEAKING | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 11510

Grades: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: Public Speaking courses enable students, through practice, to develop communication skills that can be used in a variety of speaking situations (such as small and large group discussions, delivery of lectures or speeches in front of audiences, and so on). Course topics may include (but are not limited to) research and organization, writing for verbal delivery, stylistic choices, visual and presentation skills, analysis and critique, and development of self-confidence.

PUBLICATION PRODUCTION | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 11104

Grades: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Journalism

Description: This semester course offers students the opportunity to be part of a real world, student-run newsroom that produces content for the student news magazine and online student site. Students will coordinate efforts to organize, edit, design and produce news, features, and opinion packages. Students will also become responsible and proficient in their use of social media and their civic duty to identify and analyze fair, balanced and true information. They will learn and practice advanced reporting, writing, editing, photography, design, and multimedia production. Students may specialize in specific area as reporters, managers, or editors. Media literacy, law ethics, and professional and ethical presentation and communication, will be cornerstones of study. Students may take this course more than once for credit with instruction approval.

ROBOTICS | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 210091

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: Robotics is a one-semester course in which students build, program, troubleshoot and maintain robotics systems. Students will learn to use a variety of robot languages to program using sensors, actuators, and motors in order to complete challenges based on national competitions. Lego and VEX robot systems are used in this course.

SAT PREP | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 220011

Grades: 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: This course helps students prepare for the SAT test by strengthening test-taking skills while reviewing high school math, science, reading and writing. The course also works in conjunction with the Counseling & Academic Advisement Department to help students with the college application process.

SCHOOL LEADERSHIP | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2| Course #: 221011

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Election or appointment to position

Description: This course gives the students hands-on school leadership experience. Presentations and discussions cover such topics as self-awareness, group process, communication skills, evaluations and parliamentary procedure. Students serve on various activity and service planning committees. Extensive time outside of the classroom is required for the implementation of planned activities. Students may also serve on adult school district committees, such as ex-officio representative on Durango 9-R School board and various school improvement committees.

SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT INSTRUCTION | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 192601

Grades: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Special Education or teacher recommendation

Description: This is an academic support class emphasizing social emotion supports using a variety of research based strategic supports.

SOCIAL MEDIA, ADVERTISING & PROFESSIONAL SALES | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 121652

Grades: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: none

Description: Social Media, Advertising & Professional Sales will explore the advertising and selling functions of marketing. Students will be able to analyze critique and create effective print, digital and multi-media advertisements. Upon successful completion, students will also be able to gain entry-level employment in a retail merchandising enterprise by mastering professional selling techniques. Students will understand the role merchandising plays in creating a successful customer experience, develop and demonstrate ethical sales techniques within the marketing process, examine how social media and retail merchandising have impacted 21st century consumer trends, learn the principles of advertising and how to use advertising techniques to increase awareness, profits and brand image, study and demonstrate advertising principles of media, copy, layout, and create a comprehensive advertising campaign for a local business as a final project.

SOCIOLOGY | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 42580

Grades: 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: This course will provide students with the opportunity to understand the interactions of humans through the study of group relations and issues in our society. The emphasis will be on human behavior within groups. Students will examine such issues as: the basis of culture, socialization, social structure, groups and formal organizations, deviance, social stratification, racial inequality, gender inequality, the family, and educational reforms.

SPANISH 1 | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 61010

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: During this course, students are exposed to the basic elements of the Spanish language. Through the use of practical vocabulary, the students are taught to converse about useful everyday topics. The emphasis is on oral language but students also learn the basic grammar, writing, reading, and culture.

SPANISH 2 | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 61020

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Spanish 1

Description: Spanish 2 builds upon the basic elements introduced in Spanish 1. Students will learn more advanced structure while continuing to build their vocabulary. Students will be actively involved in all aspects of learning the Spanish language including reading, writing, listening, speaking and culture.

SPANISH 3 | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 61030

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Spanish 2

Description:Spanish 3 will expand students knowledge of Hispanic culture as well as the Spanish language and extend proficiency in oral and written usage of the Spanish language. Students will learn to recount a sequence of events, discuss plans for a future event, and suggest alternatives rather than accept the option offered. Students will be able to handle basic elementary grammar accurately and will be able to use constructions to refer to past, present and future in listening, speaking, reading and writing activities.Spanish 3 will expand students’ skills in listening, speaking, reading and writing. The students will explore the Spanish language and culture though authentic readings, songs, and other curriculum material. Spanish 3 students will also deepen their knowledge of the fine points of advanced grammar through a variety of traditional and non-traditional teaching strategies. Key vocabulary and sentence structures are recycled so that students can obtain mastery of the concepts.

SPANISH 4 | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 61040

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Spanish 3

Description: Spanish 4 is designed for students in their junior year who wish to take AP Spanish their senior year and seniors who wish to continue with their Spanish studies but do not wish to take AP Spanish. Students will demonstrate mastery in basic concepts along with an in-depth study of the subjunctive mood and other advanced grammatical concepts. Much emphasis will be placed on conversational skills as well reading, writing, different Hispanic cultures, and listening comprehension.

SPANISH 1 FOR NATIVE SPEAKERS | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 61060

Grades: 9

Prerequisites: Native Spanish Speaker

Description: This course is designed for students who speak Spanish at home but lack some of the literacy skills they need for success in more advanced Spanish classes. Students will expand on grammatical structures and verb tenses, acquire academic vocabulary, study reading comprehension strategies, write a variety of academic genres and give several oral presentations.

SPANISH 2 FOR NATIVE SPEAKERS | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 61061

Grades: 10

Prerequisites: Native Spanish Speaker

SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT MARKETING | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 121630

Grades: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: None

Description: Sports and Entertainment Marketing courses introduce students to and help them refine marketing and management functions and tasks that can be applied in amateur or professional sports or sporting events, entertainment or entertainment events, and the sales or rental of supplies and equipment. Students will: Analyze the theoretical marketing processes and the strategies of product development, pricing, promotion and distribution with a focus on sports and entertainment marketing; demonstrate marketing competencies through the use of sports and entertainment marketing role-plays; apply the marketing processes and strategies to business and the individual consumer; develop hands-on projects using marketing principles with emphasis on career opportunities in sports and entertainment marketing; invite local and national guest speakers (via speakerphone or Skype) to our classroom to discuss marketing career opportunities on Broadway, Hollywood, the video game industry, the ski industry, the NFL, NHL, NBA, MLB.

STAGE DESIGN | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 50561

Grades: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Tech Theatre or Teacher approval

Description: Stage Design will focus on the design process for theatre lighting, set, costume, publicity artwork and sound, and will cycle through these topics over the course of a year. Students will focus on hands-on learning as they create their own designs for various productions. Students will create two-dimensional and three-dimensional set designs, learn to edit and mix sound, and design workable lighting plots. Computer skills, organizational competence, and artistic interest or ability will all contribute to a student?s success in the class. A student who repeats the course will have the opportunity to specialize in an area and develop a portfolio of work.

STUDIO‐ACTING PRODUCTION | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 50551

Grades: 11, 12

Prerequisites: Audition

Description: In Studio-Acting Production, advanced actors and technicians will work together to showcase their talents by mounting a full-scale main stage theatre production. Auditions for the play will take place at the beginning of each course, and all acting and tech work done in class will be geared toward mounting the play. During the last three weeks of rehearsal time, students will be required to attend rehearsals after school. Studio-Acting Production?s upperclassman play is the culmination of all of the skills taught through the years of theatrical study at DHS. And it is also REALLY fun!!!!

STUDIO‐TECH PRODUCTION | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 50563

Grades: 11, 12

Prerequisites: Teacher recommendation

Description: Studio-Tech Production develops experience and skill in technical theatrical production, concentrating on stagecraft (such as lighting, costuming, set construction, makeup, stage management, and so on) - in the context of an actual theater production. After school hours, evening, and weekend work are required including being present at all scheduled shows.

STUDY HALL | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 220060

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: Study Hall provides students with the opportunity and time to complete classroom assignments.

TEACHER ASSISTANT | Credits: 0.25 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 229951

Grades: 11, 12

Prerequisites: By application only

Description: Students are assigned to work with a teacher for one class period during the school day, assisting the teacher with tasks as needed.

TEAM SPORTS | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 80020

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: This course is designed to give students the basic skills, strategies, techniques, and rules in various sports activities. General overall fitness will be enhanced with one day each week dedicated to aerobic fitness. Weather and facility determine the order of units. Activities may include, but are not limited to, Tennis, Flag Football, Soccer, Softball, Ultimate Frisbee, Speedball, Basketball, Floor Hockey, Volleyball, Badminton, Matball.

TECH THEATER | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 50562

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: Tech Theater is a course geared toward the student who is interested in what goes on backstage. In addition to learning stagecraft technique, students will also be introduced to other tech specialties; among them are costuming, make-up, lighting, sound, props management, puppetry, and publicity. Each tech lab will use its skills during class time to help mount the theatre's current production. Because each show's technical requirements differ, a student who repeats the course will always be learning new skills. Advanced students who have taken the course before will have the opportunity to head up work crews and to design.

THEATER ARTS | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 50520

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Introduction to Drama

Description: This course is an intermediate acting class that affords the opportunity for students to study acting theories in greater depth and to expand their acting skills. Students will develop a one-act festival. Every student in the class will act and help produce a play. Scene work and acting skills are also a part of this class.

THE ART OF WELDING | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 132071

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: None

Description: The Art of Welding is a year-long exploratory project based course designed to familiarize the student with basic theory and welding techniques (Oxy-Acetylene, Arc, and MIG). The first semester will focus on the creative development of three-dimensional forms through the use of basic metal working skills, tools and welding methods. In the second semester, students' progress to TIG welding in anticipation of using their knowledge of welding and design to create a functional bicycle frame in steel. Students learn safe metal working and welding procedures that they can apply in a welding shop, in the construction trades, and in everyday living. Students receive instruction in all related areas of the welding trades and are introduced to project planning, welding symbols, and metallurgy. Included in the course is student instruction in reading and communication, with special emphasis on developing the necessary 21^st century skills of oral presentation, written critique, and general work readiness.

TRANSITION A | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #:

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Special Education or teacher recommendation

Description: This class is an introduction to accessing the community, job skill manners, and work experience preparation.

TRANSITION LAB | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 22151

Grades: 11, 12

Prerequisites: Special Education or teacher recommendation

Description: The class will assists students in being able to articulate the nature of their disability and advocate for ways that teachers can help them succeed. Students will be able to present their goals for after high school and the steps necessary to meet those goals. Field trips to local businesses will be a part of the exploration necessary to design a plan for post‐high school. We will cover the following topics: finding a career and being successful, job skills, choices after high school, how to pay for college, financial literacy (making a budget, etc.), saving and investing, independent living, citizenship, staying fit and healthy, managing the health care system, and working with the legal system.

US GOVERNMENT ‐ COMPREHENSIVE | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 41510

Grades: 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: This course will provide instruction in the government of the United States with a focus on participation in the political process. Concepts to be stressed will include: the foundations of U.S. government, political behavior and elections, the role of the United States in world affairs, individual liberties and civil rights, the structure of U.S. government, comparative government, economic systems, and civic participation. Students will also study the Constitution of the United States, its development and growth, and its importance to each individual. Students have an option to earn college credit through SCCC.

VETERINARY SCIENCE | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 181050

Grades: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Introduction to Agriculture

Description: This course is designed for students who are considering a career involving Veterinary Medicine, such as a veterinarian, veterinary technician, or any other type of animal care professional. Anatomy, physiology and medicine for dogs, cats, horses, farm animals, and exotics such as tropical birds and some zoo animals will be studied. The textbook includes many real life case studies which is the basis for this course.

VIDEO | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 110550

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: Students will explore the technical and creative aspects of video communications, incorporating both the technical and artistic aspects of video media. Topics covered in the course include the use of video equipment; film techniques, special effects, and editing in Final Cut Pro Students typically create two to three video presentations.

WATERCOLOR | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 51573

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: None

Description: This class will introduce students to the basic materials, tools, and techniques of watercolor and will give students an introduction to one of the most difficult mediums. Students will explore watercolor through studies in color mixing and theory, capturing realistic lighting and textures, the fundamentals of composition and the use of special effects. Students will participate in oral presentations and critiques to develop the skills of assessing and appreciating artwork of others as well as their own.

WEIGHT TRAINING | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 80090

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: This class offers an individual the opportunity to improve body composition and gain muscular strength and endurance, while learning the most effective, safe, and current exercises with one day each week dedicated to aerobic fitness. Individualized programs are created and utilized.

WELDING 1 | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 132071

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: Welding 1 is an exploratory course designed to familiarize the student with basic theory and welding techniques. Students will learn safe metal working and welding procedures to apply in a welding shop, the construction industry, and everyday living. Students receive instruction in all related areas of the welding trades. They are introduced to project plans, welding symbols, and metallurgy. Students will learn to weld using arc, oxyacetylene, and will learn to cut using oxygen and acetylene gases. Included in the course is instruction in reading and communication, with special emphasis on the necessary communication skills to get and keep a job.

WELDING 2 | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 132021

Grades: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Welding 1

Description: Welding 2 students receive review training of both arc and gas welding in addition to M.I.G. welding. Cutting methods with oxyacetylene and plasma are included in training. Students will do some new fabrication and repair of various components throughout the course. The focus is independent hands‐on welding and fabrication. Project plans, figuring a bill of materials, and customer relations are included in the curriculum. A portfolio is required, based on this project completion and skill experiences must be created for further development of career planning. The portfolio is a form of final assessment and it must be presented at the end of the trimester to the community.

WELDING 3 | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 130551

Grades: 11, 12

Prerequisites: Welding 2

Description: Welding 3 students expand their skills through training, including: identification and knowledge of equipment, metal properties, inspection and management of equipment/shop, supply distribution and ordering economics. A review of all the previous welding methods, and training on TIG welding is also a part of the curriculum. Estimating a bill of materials, developing project blue prints/project plans, and customer service on projects in the shop will be part of the course focus. Students are required to work hands on by completing an individual project or a community customer project. A portfolio is required, based on this project completion and skill experiences must be created for further development of career planning. The portfolio is a form of final assessment and it must be

presented at the end of the trimester to the community.

WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 185010

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Intro to Agriculture

This course discusses the biology and relationships among species of wild animals. We will study both Colorado game and exotic game systems. We will learn to identify different species, understand their place in their ecosystem, and apply that knowledge to game and population managements. Discussion will also include hunting and fishing regulations, water and water pollution, and career options in wildlife and natural resource management.

WINTERGUARD | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 80061

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Auditions

Description: Winter Guard emphasizes physical conditioning, fundamentals of movement, group precision, and public performance, often in conjunction with marching band performances.

WOMEN'S MULTIFITNESS | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 80054

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: We combine a variety of exercises to develop cardiovascular fitness, muscle tone, strength, agility, balance, flexibility, and improve body composition (body fat %), while learning the safest and latest techniques. Women’s health issues will also be discussed and integrated into the curriculum.

WOMEN'S WOODWORKING | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #:

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: This course is designed for women interesting in learning practical woodworking and home repair skills in the comfort of an all-female class. Female can enter the Woodworking class without any knowledge of woodworking. This class addresses introductory and basic concepts and skills. Female students will utilize tools and skills acquired during this course. They also will obtain confidence while constructing projects from drawings they created in class. Most importantly, female students will learn and demonstrate proper safety procedures while operating hand and power tools. By the end of this course, female students will have the knowledge and ability to create and construct wooden designs.

WOODWORKING | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 170060

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: Students can enter the Woodworking class without any knowledge of woodworking. This class addresses introductory and basic concepts and skills. Students will study history of woods and utilize tools and skills acquired during this course. Students will explore and appreciate the beauty and uses of some of the exotic woods. They also will obtain confidence while constructing projects from drawings they created in class. Most importantly, students will learn and demonstrate proper safety procedures while operating hand and power tools. By the end of this course, students will have the knowledge and ability to create and construct wooden designs.

WORK EXPERIENCE | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 221521

Grades: 11, 12

Prerequisites: Special Education or teacher recommendation

Description: The Exceptional Student Education Program offers supervised work experiences for students. Students of all abilities work in paid and non-paid jobs. Students learn various job skills, including how to apply for a job, the importance of dependability, and how to successfully interact with co-workers and employers. The Work Experience Coordinator and Job Coach are available, as needed, to help ensure success on the job and assist with transportation needs. Students learn self-confidence, financial responsibility and job skills as they become competent workers.

WORK EXPERIENCE LAB | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 229982

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Special Education or teacher recommendation

Description: Students are trained in the DHS Service Center in job skills, such as advertising, scheduling, developing initiative, asking for help, and reacting appropriately to advice/supervision. Actual work experience in running a small business which makes copies and dittos, repairs books, recycling and more is available. Students will learn computer skills for billing, accounting, and inventory. Students will learn supervisory skills by being in charge of two to three other students. Students will develop work attitudes and ethics which will be acceptable to a local business.

WORLD GEOGRAPHY | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 40010

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: This class is a study of human interaction with the physical environment. It involves looking at the earth through the themes of culture, place and environment. This course is a project based class that seeks to expose the student to the wide variety of culture, found on this globe. The physical elements are evaluated through the cultural experiences of each region.

WORLD HISTORY | Credits: 1 | Terms: 2 | Course #: 40510

Grades: 10

Prerequisites:

Description: This course studies the modern world. It focuses primarily on the development of Western history, culture, institutions, philosophy, etc. from the European Renaissance and the Protestant Reformation and the Scientific Revolution to the postmodern Western world of today. Other regions of the world will be examined when relevant and as time allows.

YEARBOOK | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 111042

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Introduction to Journalism

Description: Yearbook concentrates on using the skills necessary for applied writing and photography. Students collect information, write, and compose publications. The pace is fast and the learning curve is steep, requiring students to produce high quality work on firm deadlines. Due to the demands of the course, Intro to Journalism OR teacher approval is required.

YEARBOOK LEADERSHIP | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 111041

Grades: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: Toltec Editors Only or Teacher Approval

Description: Yearbook Leadership concentrates on student administration of the Yearbook class, which uses the skills necessary for applied writing and photography. Students collect information, write, and compose publications. The pace is fast and the learning curve is steep, requiring students to produce high quality work on firm deadlines.

YOGA/WALK/ CARDIO | Credits: 0.5 | Terms: 1 | Course #: 80051

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites:

Description: This course offers you the opportunity to learn basic yoga techniques three days per week while improving your cardiovascular endurance two days per week. Yoga benefits include: greater flexibility which can reduce incidents of injury, improved strength, balance, posture, the overall awareness of the body through relaxation and breathing activities, and increased immunity towards disease. The cardiovascular workouts include a variety of exercises that increase the heart rate. The class may do cardio-walking, and will also use the new cardio-exercise room, or other aerobic activities.

Durango School District 9-R is an equal opportunity educational institution and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, ancestry, creed, age, marital status, sexual orientation, genetic information, disability or need for special education services in admissions, access to treatment, or employment in educational programs or activities which it operates, or any other applicable status protected by federal, state or local law. For information regarding civil rights or grievance procedures, contact Laura Galido, Compliance Officer, Durango School District 9-R, 201 E 12th Street, Durango, CO 81301, (970) 247-5411, [email protected] or the Office for Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education, 1244 Spear Boulevard, Suite 310, Denver, CO 80204-3582, (303) 844-5695.