Electives and CTE
Through an integrated curriculum, sequential career paths, and technology-assisted instruction, students will prepare for higher education and the world of work. Paramount High School strives to develop Career Pathways that build relationships through rigorous and relevant courses.
Career Pathways encourage students to explore career opportunities, develop job readiness, and build technical skills. Students will participate in hands-on learning experiences that will include collaboration with local businesses and community partnerships. Students will have the skills to be able to make adjustments in this ever changing world of work.
Paramount High School has the following pathways:
- Architectural Design
- Engineering Design (PLTW)
- Design, Visual, and Media Arts
- Food Service and Hospitality
- Patient Care
- Entrepreneurship
- Information and Communication Technologies
- Biomedical Science
- Education, Child Development, & Family Services
- Sports Medicine
- Esports Game Design
MEDIA SUPPORT AND SERVICES PATHWAY
MEDIA SUPPORT AND SERVICES PATHWAY |
|
COURSE |
GRADE |
Introduction to Media Design [*] |
9 |
Film & Video Production 1 [*] |
10-12 |
Film & Video Production 2 [*] |
11-12 |
Graphic Design 1 [*] |
10-12 |
Advanced Graphic Design [*] |
11-12 |
Advanced Graphic Design Internship [*] |
12 |
Photography 1 [*] |
10-12 |
Photography 2 [*] |
11-12 |
Broadcast Journalism [*] |
10-12 |
[*] College Prep |
Upon completing Introduction to Media Design, students can choose the elective related to their career interest.
INTRODUCTION TO MEDIA DESIGN
Open to grade 9
Prerequisite: None
One Year- 10 credits
(College Prep)
Introduction to Media Design is a course that explores historical to the rapidly changing trends in the global field of design. Through two and three dimensional design projects students develop problem solving skills, artistic perception, critical thinking, and self reflection. Learning the main industry computer software, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, and Adobe Dream Weaver will provide students with the professional environment and responsibilities of those in the field of media design. *This class fulfills the A-G College Requirement for “g” College-Preparatory Elective requirement.
FILM & VIDEO PRODUCTION 1
Open to grades 10, 11, and 12
Prerequisite: None, Completion of Introduction to Media Design preferred
One Year- 10 credits
(College Prep)
This course trains students in the basics of visual storytelling through the creation of storyboards, script writing, basic shot types, camera movements, lighting, audio, and techniques of editing. Students learn the skills necessary for jobs as a producer, director, art director, set design, camera operator, script supervisor, and editor.
*This class fulfills the A-G College Requirement for “f” Visual & Performing Art Credit.
FILM & VIDEO PRODUCTION 2
Open to grades 10, 11, and 12
Prerequisite: Completion of Film & Video Production 1 with a grade of “C“ or better
One Year- 10 credits
(College Prep)
This project-based, hands-on film and television course provides students with an understanding of the fundamentals of pre and post production. This includes the techniques and the aesthetics of shooting, lighting, and editing. Students will conceive, shoot and edit several small projects that are then screened, reviewed and critiqued. Relationships between video, film, computer graphics and audio are explored. The course exposes students to the basics of visual storytelling through the creation of storyboards, script writing, basic shot types, camera movements, lighting, audio and editing techniques.
*This class fulfills the A-G College Requirement for “f” Visual & Performing Art Credit.
GRAPHIC DESIGN 1
Open to grades 10, 11, and 12
Prerequisite: None, Completion of Introduction to Media Design preferred
One Year- 10 credits
(College Prep)
This course trains students for entry-level positions as graphic designers—or graphic artists. Students will be taught how to plan, analyze, and create visual solutions to communications problems. They will learn effective ways to get messages across in print, electronic, and film media using a variety of methods such as color, type, illustration, photography, animation, and various print and layout techniques. Students will be taught the basics in overall layout and production design of media such as magazines, newspapers, journals, corporate reports, and other publications. Students will produce promotional displays, packaging, and marketing brochures for products and services, and design distinctive logos for products.
*This class fulfills the A-G College Requirement for “f” Visual & Performing Art Credit.
ADVANCED GRAPHIC DESIGN
Open to grades 11 and 12
Prerequisite: Completion of Graphic Design with a grade of “C” or better
One Year- 10 credits
(College Prep)
Advanced Graphic Design is a 180-hour course that explores the historical to the rapidly changing trends in the field of graphic design. Through design projects, and research projects, students develop problem solving skills, artistic perception, critical thinking, and self-reflection. With the awareness of design solutions throughout history in various cultures students will understand the impact of the arts and design on human experiences. Students will also learn methods and theory such as elements and principles of design to enhance their artistic vision and style. Design critiques and presentations will provide opportunities for students to grow as design artists. All experiences will focus on developing perception and application of the elements of art and principles of design through contemporary design applications and modern digital publishing design.
*This class fulfills the A-G College Requirement for “f” Visual & Performing Art Credit.
ADVANCED GRAPHIC DESIGN INTERNSHIP
Open to grades 11 and 12
Prerequisite: Completion of Graphic Design and Advanced Graphic Design with a grade of “C” or better (Recommended)
One Year- 10 credits
(College Prep)
Students will develop industry digital design skills through course work and work experiences at local businesses/with industry experts, and through work orders that are created school-wide and district-wide. The students enrolled in Advanced Graphic Design Internship will develop a digital portfolio that includes all of their designs, projects, and fulfilling work orders, to highlight to a panel of professionals who provide feedback to students as they exit the program at the end of the school year. Students will develop knowledge and skills in the areas of group collaboration, project management, organization, and product development, and work order fulfillment/delivery based on the specific requests of school, district, and community clients. Concurrently, students will learn theories, artistic processes, technologies, and methodologies from across multiple graphic media, and will develop their foundational and interdisciplinary technical art design skills using the Adobe Creative Cloud tool suite: InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere Pro, and/or After Effects. Fostering and improving upon these foundational graphic design skills will help students become well-rounded digital media content creators and interns in various business-models and real-world settings. Students will be guided through artistic processes and will engage in a variety of perspectives to analyze, share, assess and critique their peers’ work in order to fulfill the needs of business owners and clients whom they serve as interns.
*This class fulfills the A-G College Requirement for “g” College-Preparatory Elective Credit.
PHOTOGRAPHY 1
Open to grades 10, 11, and 12
Prerequisite: None, Completion of Introduction to Media Design preferred
One Year- 10 credits
(College Prep)
In Photography 1 students are taught the terminologies and techniques and Principles of Design of photographic production. Students will study the sensory, formal, expressive and aesthetic properties of photography and will examine the history and development of photography including basic darkroom procedures. Included in this course is an analysis of a variety of photographers and their impact on society. The major portion of the class is dedicated to Digital photography and the variety of computer programs to enhance the photos. Programs covered included Photoshop, Corel and PageMaker.
*This class fulfills the A-G College Requirement for “f” Visual & Performing Art Credit.
PHOTOGRAPHY 2
Open to grades 11 and 12
Prerequisite: Completion of Photography 1
One Year- 10 credits
(College Prep)
Photography 2 is an intermediate level course which builds on the fundamentals mastered in Photo 1, and explores the use of technology, lighting, editing, deeper exploration in photo history and the art of photography. Photo 2 is a classroom based course which will give the student an extensive overview of the intermediate principles of photography, as well as the equipment used. The student will express themselves through photography by completing various assignments in a challenging and creative atmosphere. The student will acquire an appreciation of the contributions of photography to modern society. Education in Photo 2 will develop a lifelong interest in photography, as well as develop a professional portfolio of work that reflects knowledge of job acquisition skills and employer expectations for retaining a job.
*This class fulfills the A-G College Requirement for “f” Visual & Performing Art Credit.
BROADCAST JOURNALISM
Open to grades 10, 11, and 12
Prerequisite: Teacher’s Approval (Required)
One Year – 10 Credits
(College Prep)
The course emphasizes improving students’ visual arts and communication skills through broadcasting media. Students will participate in and produce television broadcasts. Activities include live broadcasts, commercials, interviews, documentaries, and public service announcements (PSAs). Activities will also include: scripting, storyboarding, editing, time and resource management and use of video/audio equipment and software. Students will also explore ethics of broadcasting, create a video reflection of the school year and prepare a comprehensive portfolio of work.
*This class fulfills the A-G College Requirement for “f” Visual & Performing Art Credit.
PATIENT CARE PATHWAY
PATIENT CARE PATHWAY |
|
COURSE |
GRADE |
Introduction to Medical Technology [*] |
9 |
Health Career Academy Foundation [*] |
10 |
Health Career Academy Exploration [*] |
11 |
Health Career Academy Internship [*] |
12 |
Sports Medicine 1 [*] |
10-12 |
Sports Medicine 2 [*] |
11-12 |
[*] College Prep |
INTRODUCTION TO MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY
Open to grade 9
Prerequisite: None
One Year- 10 credits
(College Prep)
This introductory level class is a stepping stone toward the foundations students will use for the Health Career Academies. This course revolves around the use and skills of technology. Students will learn and enhance their knowledge of word processing and desktop publishing as it applies to medical concepts. Students will build background into medical careers, disease and illnesses, anatomy, and medical terminology. Students will also use hands-on learning through the software being used in medical front offices today: Medisoft. This course is designed with the learner in mind, and has projects that are aligned with state standards.
*This class fulfills the A-G College Requirement for “g” College-Preparatory Elective requirement.
HEALTH CAREER ACADEMY FOUNDATION
Open to grade 10
Prerequisite: Completion of Introduction to Medical Technology with a “C” or better is strongly recommended.
One Year- 10 credits
(College Prep)
This is an introductory course designed to give an overview of the various components of medical professionals’ responsibilities. One of the goals of the Health Career Pathway is to have the student learn to translate real-life situations into a caring, confidential, and safe medical environment. Units of instruction include the history of medicine, different types of healthcare, professional workplace behavior, ethical and legal aspects of the healthcare setting, medical terminology, medical abbreviations, anatomy and physiology, CPR certification, and infection control. This course aligns with and/or incorporates the California Career Technical Education Standards, National Healthcare Foundation Standards, National Health Career Content Standards, and LACOROP Expected School-wide Learning Results, State Language Arts, Math Standards, and the California High School Exit Exam.
*This class fulfills the A-G College Requirement for “g” College-Preparatory Elective requirement.
HEALTH CAREER ACADEMY EXPLORATION
Open to grade 11
Prerequisite: Completion of Health Careers Academy - Foundations. Completion with a “C” or better is strongly recommended.
One Year- 10 credits
(College Prep)
The goal of this course is to expose the students to the diverse career opportunities available in the healthcare field, increase, and reinforce related academic skills. Upon graduation, the students will be prepared academically as well as vocationally for skilled entry-level jobs and/or entrance into higher levels of education including colleges and universities. Units of instruction include medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, CPR certification, First Aid certification, infection control, socioeconomics of the healthcare industry, communication, documentation, ethics, confidentiality, patient care skills and procedures. Students will be able to incorporate knowledge and skills acquired in the classroom while working in a health care environment.
*This class fulfills the A-G College Requirement for “g” College-Preparatory Elective requirement.
HEALTH CAREER ACADEMY INTERNSHIP
Open to grade 12
Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation- Completion of HCA Exploration with a “C” or better.
One Year- 10 credits
(College Prep)
HCA Internship is a capstone course for the Therapeutic Services Pathway. Students will learn the necessary academic skills, knowledge, and technical information for placement in a medical office for Internship. Students will be able to incorporate knowledge and skills acquired in the classroom while working in a health care environment. This module trains students to assist in the treatment and examination of the patient, including the administration of medications, injections, sterilization techniques, equipment care, performing laboratory tests, phlebotomy, and EKGs. Upon successful completion of the program the student may be eligible to receive a vocational certificate allowing them to obtain employment in the health care sector.
*This class fulfills the A-G College Requirement for “g” College-Preparatory Elective requirement.
SPORTS MEDICINE 1
Open to grades 10, 11, and 12
Prerequisite: None
One Year- 10 credits
(College Prep)
This course covers Human Anatomy and Physiology by examining how systems of the body through physical activity and inactivity.
Students will learn the prevention, evaluation, treatment, rehabilitation of illness, disease, and injuries, by interacting with high school athletes.
*This class fulfills the A-G College Requirement for “g” College-Preparatory Elective requirement.
SPORTS MEDICINE 2
Open to grades 11 and 12
Prerequisite: Completion of Sports Medicine 1.
One Year- 10 credits
(College Prep)
Sports Medicine 2 serves as a capstone course in the CTE Patient Care Pathway providing students with the opportunity to build on the concepts and skills developed in Sports Medicine 1. This course develops the advanced skills for understanding functional anatomy and kinesiology and prevention, evaluation, treatment, and rehabilitation of illness, disease, and injury. Emphasis is placed on the scope of practice of an athletic trainer aide and students acquire fundamental concepts and skills of training room development, assessment of environmental factors that lead to injury, introduction to rehabilitation and modalities, risk management, and the basics of training and conditioning techniques. Career Ready Practice Standards are integrated throughout the course allowing students to develop their problem-solving, collaboration, communication, and critical thinking skills through scenario evaluation and project based learning experiences. Internship opportunities are incorporated in the course to provide students with the opportunity to apply their skills in a real-world setting.
*This class fulfills the A-G College Requirement for “g” College-Preparatory Elective requirement.
ENGINEERING/ARCHITECTURE PATHWAY
ENGINEERING/ARCHITECTURE PATHWAY |
|
COURSE |
GRADE |
Honors PLTW Introduction to Engineering Design (IED) [*] |
9 |
Honors PLTW Principles of Engineering (POE) [*][H] |
10-12 |
Honors PLTW Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) [*][H] |
10-12 |
Honors PLTW Engineering Design and Development (EDD) [*][H] |
10-12 |
Computer Assisted Drafting and Design (CADD) [*] |
10-12 |
Honors PLTW Civil Engineering and Architecture [*] [H] |
10-12 |
[*] College Prep |
[H] Honors |
HONORS PLTW INTRODUCTION TO ENGINEERING DESIGN
Open to grade 9
Prerequisite: Algebra 1
One Year – 10 credits
(College Prep)
IED is a high school level course that is appropriate for 9th or 10th grade students who are interested in design and engineering. The major focus of the IED course is to expose students to design process, research and analysis, teamwork, communication methods, global and human impacts, engineering standards, and technical documentation. IED gives students the opportunity to develop skills and understanding of course concepts through activity-, project- and problem-based (APPB) learning. Used in combination with a teaming approach, APPB- learning challenges students to continually hone their interpersonal skills, creative abilities and understanding of the design process. It also allows students to develop strategies to enable and direct their own learning, which is the ultimate goal of education.
*This class meets one year of the A-G College Requirement for “d” Science requirement.
HONORS PLTW PRINCIPLES OF ENGINEERING (POE)
Open to grades 10, 11, and 12
Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra 1 and IED preferred. Concurrent enrollment in Geometry or higher math course.
One Year – 10 credits
(College Prep)
Designed for 10th or 11th grade students, this survey course exposes students to major concepts they will encounter in a post-secondary engineering course of study. Throughout the course, students will explore various technology systems and manufacturing processes to learn how engineers and technicians use math, science and technology problem solving processes to benefit people. They will also develop problem-solving skills and apply their knowledge of research and design to create solutions to various challenges, document their work and communicate solutions. The course also includes concerns about social and political consequences of technological change.
*This class meets one year of the A-G College Requirement for “d” Science requirement.
COMPUTER ASSISTED DRAFTING AND DESIGN (CADD)
Open to grades 10, 11, and 12
Prerequisite: Completion of IED preferred.
One Year – 10 credits
(College Prep)
Engineering/Design CADD provides learning opportunities for students interested in preparing for careers in engineering, manufacturing and design industries. Students will also develop skills useful in the fields of architecture and construction. Students plan, prepare and interpret drawings and models through traditional drafting and Computer-Aided Drafting and Design (CADD) techniques. This course fosters the development of beginning design methodology founded on thoughtful, creative, ethical, sustainable and rigorous work practices.
*This class fulfills the A-G College Requirement for “g” College-Preparatory Elective requirement.
HONORS PLTW COMPUTER INTEGRATED MANUFACTURING (CIM)
Open to grades 10, 11, and 12
Prerequisite: Completion of POE.
One Year – 10 credits
(College Prep)
How are things made? What processes go into creating products? Is the process for making a water bottle the same as it is for a musical instrument? How do assembly lines work? How has automation changed the manufacturing? While students discover the answers to these questions, they’re learning about the history of manufacturing, robotics and automation, manufacturing processes, computer modeling, manufacturing equipment, and flexible manufacturing systems.
*This class meets one year of the A-G College Requirement for “d” Science requirement.
HONORS PLTW ENGINEERING DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT (EDD)
Open to grades 10, 11, and 12
Prerequisite: Completion of CIM. Concurrent enrollment in Geometry or higher mathematics course
One Year – 10 credits
(College Prep)
Designed for 12th grade students, this is an engineering research course in which students will work in teams to research, design, test, and construct a solution to an open-ended engineering problem. The product development life cycle and a design process are used to guide and help the team to reach a solution to the problem. The team presents and defends their solution to a panel of outside reviewers at the conclusion of the course. The EDD course allows students to apply all the skills and knowledge learned in previous Project Lead The Way courses. The use of 3D design software helps students design solutions to the problem their team has chosen. This course also engages students in time management and teamwork skills, a valuable set for students in the future.
*This class meets one year of the A-G College Requirement for “d” Science requirement.
HONORS PLTW CIVIL ENGINEERING AND ARCHITECTURE
Open to grades 10, 11, and 12
Prerequisite: Completion of CADD, Elementary Algebra (or equivalent), and PLTW Introduction to Engineering Design or PLTW Principles of Engineering (Required)
Co-requisites: Algebra 2 (Required)
One Year – 10 credits
(College Prep)
In Civil Engineering and Architecture, students are introduced to important aspects of building and site design and development. They apply math, science, and standard engineering practices to design both residential and commercial projects and document their work using 3D architectural design software. Through both individual and collaborative team activities and projects, students will solve problems as they practice common design and development protocols such as project management and peer review. Students will develop skills in engineering calculations, technical representation and documentation of design solutions according to accepted technical standards, and use of current 3D architectural design and modeling software to represent and communicate solutions.
*This class meets one year of the A-G College Requirement for “d” Science requirement.
FOOD SERVICES AND HOSPITALITY PATHWAY
FOOD SERVICES AND HOSPITALITY PATHWAY |
|
COURSE |
GRADE |
Principles of Nutrition [*] |
9-11 |
Food Service and Hospitality [*] |
10-12 |
Food Service and Management [*] |
10-12 |
Baking and Pastry [*] |
11-12 |
[*] College Prep |
PRINCIPLES OF NUTRITION
Open to grades 9, 10, and 11
Prerequisite: None
One Year – 10 credits
(College Prep)
Principles of Nutrition is a course in the Food Service and Hospitality Pathway. This course trains students for jobs in careers in restaurant and retail food service: Culinary arts, Dietetic Aide, Catering, Institutional Food Service, Restaurant and retail food service occupations. Students will learn about the breadth of the industry and a wide range of occupations and career opportunities within the food service industry. Emphasis is placed on safety and sanitation regulations, proper food handling and emergency procedures. Students learn the correct use and care of the tools and equipment used in the industry. Instruction is given in nutrition and menu development, cooking techniques and baking. Food preparation and service may take place at the school site with opportunities to serve students or prepare and serve at local events. Eligible students may take the ServSafe certification exam. This course aligns with and incorporates the California Career Technical Education Model Curriculum Standards, Common Core Course Standards, Standards for Career Ready Practice, Anchor Standards and Pathway Standards as well as the National Restaurant Association Standards.
*This class fulfills the A-G College Requirement for “g” College-Preparatory Elective requirement.
FOOD SERVICES AND HOSPITALITY
Open to grades 10 and 11
Prerequisite: Completion of Principles of Nutrition.
One Year- 10 credits
(College Prep)
Food Services and Hospitality is the second course in the Food Service and Hospitality pathway. Students in this course will apply their knowledge of safety and food sanitation as they deepen their understanding about basic food cooking methods and principles. Students learn about the basics of food management including the importance of maintaining equipment, tools, supplies and the basics of food management including the importance of maintaining equipment, tools, supplies and the basics of costing and cost analysis in food production and service. Students will have an opportunity to explore career options as chefs, dietitians, caterers and restaurateurs. This course aligns with and incorporates the California Career Technical Education Model Curriculum Standards, Standards for Career Ready Practice, Anchor Standards and Pathway Standards.
*This class fulfills the A-G College Requirement for “g” College-Preparatory Elective requirement.
FOOD SERVICE AND MANAGEMENT
Open to grades 11 and 12
Prerequisite: Completion of Food Services and Hospitality.
One Year- 10 credits
(College Prep)
Food Service Management is the capstone course in the sequence of courses within Food Service and Hospitality Pathway. In this course, students will analyze the food service industry from the perspective of a systems operation and practice designing and executing new menus, station organization, work schedules, and kitchen work flow system design. Students apply their knowledge of fundamental culinary skills through palate development and develop ingredient unit conversion skills using percents, ratios, yield tests and recipe scaling. Throughout this course, students learn advanced kitchen safety and sanitation skills and concepts, preparing them to take the ServSafe Management exam by the end of the year. Through the analysis of case studies, research projects, and real world problem-solving scenarios, students develop the leadership skills required to participate effectively in the Food Service and Hospitality industry and/or enroll into a postsecondary culinary arts program.
*This class fulfills the A-G College Requirement for “g” College-Preparatory Elective requirement.
BAKING AND PASTRY
Open to grades 11 and 12
Prerequisite: Successful completion of the previous Food Services and Hospitality classes
One Year – 10 credits
(College Prep)
Baking and Pastry is designed as an elective course for students in the Food Service and Hospitality Pathway. The course is part of a sequence of courses that successfully prepares students for a career in the Food Service and Hospitality industry with a concentrated focus designed to explore the specialized field of baking and pastry. Students will participate in a hands-on course of study that builds upon the previous years of coursework. Students will participate in both individual and group tasks that explore the preparation and production of baking and pastry items designed to meet baking and pastry industry standards. In a lab-based environment, students learn and demonstrate culinary arts skills to prepare specific baking and pastry dishes such as frozen desserts, pies, pastries, tarts, soufflés, and chocolate using unique ingredients and techniques that showcase the art and design of baking and pastry foods.
*This class fulfills the A-G College Requirement for “g” College-Preparatory Elective requirement.
ENTREPRENEURSHIP PATHWAY
ENTREPRENEURSHIP PATHWAY |
|
COURSE |
GRADE |
Entrepreneurship & Innovation [*] |
11-12 |
Entrepreneurship 2 [*] |
10-12 |
Startup Tech: Introduction to Entrepreneurship and App Development [*] |
10-12 |
|
|
|
|
ENTREPRENEURSHIP & INNOVATION
Open to grades 10-12
Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra 1
One Year- 10 credits
(College Prep)
In this year-long course, students have the opportunity to create and fully develop their own product or service. Real entrepreneurs and business experts serve as volunteer coaches and mentors guiding student teams through the processes of developing hypotheses about a business concept, testing those hypotheses, adapting, and continually learning and improving. This cycle of experimentation is combined with foundational business content such as marketing and finance and principles and processes from the LEAN movement help students test their thinking. From concept to Minimum Viable Product to Pitch, students are hypothesizing, testing, adapting and learning. Lastly, Pitch Week helps to further fire the entrepreneurial spirit by putting student teams in front of actual investors so they can pitch their innovative idea to win funding and turn their wishful thinking into a reality.
*This class fulfills the A-G College Requirement for “g” College-Preparatory Elective requirement.
ENTRENEURSHIP 2
Open to grades 10-12
Prerequisite: Entrepreneurship 2
One Year- 10 credits
(College Prep)
This is an interdisciplinary course designed to teach students how to think and act like an entrepreneur and it follows the Entrepreneurship & Innovation course. Students learn the components of a quality business plan and develop their own plan throughout the covered units of study. The course will build on cross-curricular academic skills, by integrating inquiry-based learning and business tools that will enable students to analyze, create, develop, collaborate, write, listen, innovate and present small business ideas within a school environment. Concepts and skills are reinforced by a strong emphasis on hands-on experience. Applications to society, individuals, and the utilization of technology are included.
*This class fulfills the A-G College Requirement for “g” College-Preparatory Elective requirement.
STARTUP TECH: INTRODUCTION TO ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND APP DEVELOPMENT
Open to grades 10-12
Prerequisite: Entrepreneurship & Innovation (Required)
One Year- 10 credits
(College Prep)
As part of the Entrepreneurship Pathway, Startup Tech is a course with a focus on integrating technology with business. This course will guide students to identify ways to improve the world and to build marketable digital solutions. During this course, students will create an original app that addresses a community need, develop a corresponding original abbreviated business plan, as well as promotional marketing materials, and ultimately present in a Startup Showcase. Within the yearlong course, students will research, participate in various projects, present their findings to the class, and utilize experiential activities using MIT’s App Inventor. Throughout the yearlong course, students will be introduced to the mindset and skills that can help them achieve success in both Startup Tech and in life.
*This class fulfills the A-G College Requirement for “g” College-Preparatory Elective requirement.COMPUTER SCIENCE (PLTW) PATHWAY
COMPUTER SCIENCE (PLTW) PATHWAY |
|
COURSE |
GRADE |
Computer Science Essentials (PLTW) [*] |
9-12 |
Advanced Placement Computer Science Principles [*] [H] [AP] |
9-12 |
Honors PLTW Cybersecurity [*] [H] |
10-12 |
Advanced Placement Computer Science [*] [H] [AP] |
11-12 |
[*] College Prep |
[H] Honors |
[AP] Advanced Placement |
COMPUTER SCIENCE ESSENTIALS (PLTW)
Open to grades 9-12
Prerequisite: None
One Year- 10 credits
(College Prep)
Computer Science Essentials is the first course in the Information and Communication Technologies CTE Pathway. Computer Science Essentials introduces students to coding fundamentals through an approachable, block-based programming language where they will have early success in creating usable apps. As students sharpen their computational thinking skills, they will transition to programming environments that reinforce coding fundamentals by displaying block programming and text based programming side-by-side. Finally, students will learn the power of text-based programming as they are introduced to the Python® programming language. The course engages students in computational thinking practices and collaboration strategies, as well as industry standard tools authentic to how computer science professionals work. Students will learn about professional opportunities in computer science and how computing can be an integral part of all careers today.
*This class meets one year of the A-G College Requirement for “d” Science requirement.
AP COMPUTER SCIENCE PRINCIPLES
Open to grades 9-12
Prerequisite: High School Algebra (Required) and completion of Computer Science Essentials
One Year- 10 credits
(College Prep) / (Honors) / (Advanced Placement)
The AP Computer Science Principles course is designed to be equivalent to a first-semester introductory college computing course. In this course, students will develop computational thinking skills vital for success across all disciplines, such as using computational tools to analyze and study data and working with large data sets to analyze, visualize, and draw conclusions from trends. The course engages students in the creative aspects of the field by allowing them to develop computational artifacts based on their interests. Students will also develop effective communication and collaboration skills by working individually and collaboratively to solve problems, and will discuss and write about the impacts these solutions could have on their community, society, and the world.
*This class meets one year of the A-G College Requirement for “d” Science requirement.
HONORS PLTW CYBERSECURITY
Open to grades 10-12
Prerequisite: Completion of AP Computer Science Principles
One Year- 10 credits
(College Prep)
Cybersecurity introduces the tools and concepts of cybersecurity and encourages students to create solutions that allow people to share computing resources while protecting privacy. Nationally, computational resources are vulnerable and frequently attacked; in Cybersecurity, students solve problems by understanding and closing these vulnerabilities. This course raises students’ knowledge of and commitment to ethical computing behavior. It also aims to develop students’ skills as consumers, friends, citizens, and employees who can effectively contribute to communities with a dependable cyber-infrastructure that moves and processes information safely.
*This class meets one year of the A-G College Requirement for “d” Science requirement.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT COMPUTER SCIENCE A
Open to grades 11 and 12
Prerequisite: Completion of CS1 or a senior. Completion of Honors PLTW Cybersecurity. Teacher approval required.
One Year - 10 Credits
(College Prep) / (Honors) / (Advanced Placement)
Students will learn how to program computers in the Java object-oriented language to prepare them for taking the AP Computer Science test.
*This class meets one year of the A-G College Requirement for “c” Mathematics requirement.
BIOMEDICAL SCIENCE PATHWAY
BIOMEDICAL SCIENCE PATHWAY |
|
COURSE |
GRADE |
Honors Principles of Biomedical Science [*][H] |
9 |
Honors Human Body Systems [*][H] |
10 |
Honors Medical Interventions [*][H] |
11 |
Honors Biomedical Innovation [*][H] |
12 |
[*] College Prep |
[H] Honors |
HONORS PRINCIPLES OF BIOMEDICAL SCIENCE
Open to grade 9
Prerequisites: Biology (Required) Concurrently enrolled in elementary Algebra or higher.
One Year- 10 credits
(College Prep) / (Honors)
In this course, students explore concepts of biology and medicine as they take on roles of different medical professionals to solve real-world problems. Over the course of the year, students are challenged in various scenarios including investigating a crime scene to solve a mystery, diagnosing and proposing treatment to patients in a family medical practice, to tracking down and containing a medical outbreak at a local hospital, stabilizing a patient during an emergency, and collaborating with others to design solutions to local and global medical problems.
*This class meets one year of the A-G College Requirement for “d” Science requirement.
HONORS PLTW HUMAN BODY SYSTEMS
Open to grade 10
Prerequisites: Completion of Honors PTLW Principles of Biomedical Science (Recommended) Completion of Biology (Required) Concurrently enrolled in elementary Algebra or higher.
One Year- 10 credits
(College Prep) / (Honors)
Students examine the interactions of human body systems as they explore identity, power, movement, protection, and homeostasis in the body. Exploring science in action, students build organs and tissues on a skeletal Manikin; use data acquisition software to monitor body functions such as muscle movement, reflex and voluntary action, and respiration; and take on the roles of biomedical professionals to solve real-world medical cases.
*This class meets one year of the A-G College Requirement for “d” Science requirement.
HONORS MEDICAL INTERVENTIONS
Open to grade 11
Prerequisites: Honors Human Body Systems
One Year- 10 credits
(College Prep) / (Honors)
Medical Interventions allows students to investigate the variety of interventions involved in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of disease as they follow the lives of a fictitious family. A “How-To” manual for maintaining overall health and homeostasis in the body, the course will explore how to prevent and fight infection, how to screen and evaluate the code in our DNA, how to prevent, diagnose, and treat cancer, and how to prevail when the organs of the body begin to fail. Through these scenarios students will be exposed to the wide range of interventions related to immunology, surgery, genetics, pharmacology, medical devices, and diagnostics. Each family case scenario will introduce multiple types of interventions, reinforce concepts learned in the previous two courses, and present new content. Interventions may range from simple diagnostic tests to treatment of complex diseases and disorders. These interventions will be showcased across the generations of the family and will provide a look at the past, present, and future of biomedical science. Lifestyle choices and preventive measures are emphasized throughout the course as well as the important role that scientific thinking and engineering design play in the development of interventions of the future. Students practice problem solving with structured activities and progress to open-ended projects and problems that require them to develop planning, documentation, communication, and other professional skills.
*This class meets one year of the A-G College Requirement for “d” Science requirement.
HONORS BIOMEDICAL INNOVATION
Open to grade 12
Prerequisites: Honors Medical Intervention
One Year- 10 credits
(College Prep) / (Honors)
In this capstone course, students apply their knowledge and skills to answer questions or solve problems related to the biomedical sciences. Students design innovative solutions for the health challenges of the 21st century as they work through progressively challenging open-ended problems, addressing topics such as clinical medicine, physiology, biomedical engineering, and public health. They have the opportunity to work on an independent project and may work with a mentor or advisor from a university, hospital, physician’s office, or industry. Throughout the course, students are expected to present their work to an adult audience that may include representatives from the local business and healthcare community.
In the Biomedical Innovation course, students will be asked to apply what they have learned in the previous three courses to solve unique problems in science, medicine, and healthcare. Students will work systematically through required problems before completing optional directed problems or independent work. Each problem is staged as a mission – a unique set of tasks the students must work through to achieve their desired objective. Students are presented with each problem in a Mission File – a document that includes a case brief, a list of completion tasks, links to available resources, as well as a reflection section. Working through the missions not only exposes students to current issues in biomedical science, but it also provides skills-based instruction in research and experimentation – tools students will use to design innovative solutions to real-world problems. Students will use what they learn in these missions as they develop and implement their independent project at the end of the year. A teacher may use additional resources in the community – the guidance of other teachers in the school, the advice of scientists or biomedical professionals, or the knowledge presented in scientific literature to help students achieve each goal.
*This class meets one year of the A-G College Requirement for “d” Science requirement.
EDUCATION, CHILD DEVELOPMENT, & FAMILY SERVICES PATHWAY
EDUCATION, CHILD DEVELOPMENT, & FAMILY SERVICES PATHWAY |
|
COURSE |
GRADE |
Principles of Education [*] |
10-12 |
Experiences in Education * |
11-12 |
[*] College Prep |
PRINCIPLES OF EDUCATION
Open to grades 10, 11 & 12
Prerequisite: None
One Year- 10 credits
(College Prep)
The Principles of Education serves as the first course in the CTE Education Pathway. In this course, students will learn about the fundamentals in the field of education including early childhood development, educational theory, the history of education and curriculum & instruction best practices while performing a minimum of 25 hours of fieldwork observations.
*This class fulfills the A-G College Requirement for “g” College-Preparatory Elective requirement.
EXPERIENCES IN EDUCATION
Open to grades 11 & 12
Prerequisite: Principles of Education
One Year- 10 credits
(College Prep)
Experiences in Education is the capstone course in the CTE Education Pathway. In this course, students will learn about various career options and innovative practices in the field of education concluding with a full semester of work-based learning experience (internship) in their area/grade span of choice. Students are required to complete a minimum of 10 hours of elementary classroom field work, focusing on how the California Standards for the Teaching Profession are being implemented in the daily activities of elementary instruction. Students will submit a digital e-portfolio as their capstone project and requirement for college credits.
*This class fulfills the A-G College Requirement for “g” College-Preparatory Elective requirement.
ESPORTS GAMING PATHWAY
ESPORTS GAMING PATHWAY |
|
COURSE |
GRADE |
Esports Gaming Design 1 [*] |
10-11 |
Esports Game Design 2 [*] |
11-12 |
[*] College Prep |
ESPORTS GAMING DESIGN 1
Open to grades 10 & 11
Prerequisite: None
One Year- 10 credits
(College Prep)
ESports and Game Design 1 is an introductory level course designed to prepare students for a functional look into the video game industry. Students will learn the mindset of professional game designers, professional gamers, and the process in which a game design studio moves from a game idea to publication. The expected outcome of the class is that all students will have a broad understanding of how a typical video game design company operates, and how video games move from concept to marketing. Emphasis will be placed on game testing, quality of rules, interfaces, navigation, performance, play, artistry and longevity in design and structure.
*This class fulfills the A-G College Requirement for “g” College-Preparatory Elective requirement.
ESPORTS GAME DESIGN 2
Open to grades 11 & 12
Prerequisite: Esports Gaming Design 1
One Year- 10 credits
(College Prep)
ESports and Game Design 2 is the capstone course in the ESports and Game Design Pathway. The goal of this class is to prepare students to understand the competitive and business career aspects of the worldwide esports infrastructure. Students will be able to take the knowledge learned from ESports Gaming 1 and proceed onto career pathways in the esports gaming ecosystem. Students will have opportunities to participate in leagues and exposure to scholarships in this field. Students will also continue to gain knowledge in the game design and have opportunities to earn industry certifications in this field.
*This class fulfills the A-G College Requirement for “g” College-Preparatory Elective requirement.