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Read
my article: Making the Most of Extracurricular
Activities
To
help you prepare your child's high school transcript, here
is a list of elective course descriptions used by a local
public school. Generally, public schools and colleges will
not accept these courses as meeting the requirements of high
school math, science, history, and English but they can be
used as credits for electives. If in doubt, check with the
school.
Note: 1 credit = .5 unit or 1 semester of
work, 2 credits = 1 unit or 2 semesters of work.
Course
descriptions and credit values vary from school to school.
The descriptions below are given as examples only. As
the
“principal” of your homeschool, you have the
ability to create your own course and assign your own credit
values.
Accounting
I (2 semesters, 2 credits): Basic principles of accounting
(analyzing daily transactions, journalizing, posting, financial
statement preparation) applicable to sole proprietorships,
partnerships, and corporate forms of business ownership. Personal
and business banking practices are also included. Practical
application of accounting principles is given through the
use of computer software. Personal income tax preparation
is also presented.
Adult
& Family Living (2 semesters, 2 credits): A study
of the life and activities of the family. A realistic picture
of what it means to be a family member with emphasis on the
areas of preparation for marriage, the roles of husband/wife,
child care and development, and special emphasis on experiences
that bond the family together such as developing traditions,
fostering family time with conversation, balancing work, family,
and celebration of holidays.
Aerobics (1
semester, 1 credit): Designed to increase physical fitness
level. Activities include high & low impact aerobics,
step aerobics, walking, stair climbing, abdominal workouts,
and muscle conditioning.
Agriscience
I & II (2 semesters, 2 credits): Introduce students
to the broad scope of agriculture and agricultural related
industries. Provides students with the necessary skills, information,
and opportunities to experience a variety of occupational
and educational clusters. This course includes orientation
to Animal sciences, agricultural power and technology, animal
science, and plant science. Livestock project recommended.
Animal
Science I (2 semesters, 2 credits): Curriculum provides
information, knowledge, and skills associated with careers
related to animal production and animal science. Provides
laboratory, lecture, and competitive activities through the
FFA to students interested in veterinary medicine, livestock
production and nutrition, genetics, and laboratory techniques.
Art
I (2 semesters, 2 credits): Foundational course covers
two dimensional work such as drawing and design, color mechanics,
and painting. Second semester covers three dimensional work
in pottery, sculpture, and mixed media.
Art
II (2 semesters, 2 credits): Students will prepare
a complete portfolio showing a mastery of basic techniques
in 2D and 3D assignments.
Art II 2D (1 semester, 1
credit): Basic techniques of drawing and painting through
the elements and principles of design. Watercolor techniques
will be introduced as well as the introduction of mixed media
techniques.
Art
II 3D (1 semester, 1 credit): Basic techniques in
hand-built pottery such as coil, slab, throwing and glazing.
Paper, wood and wire sculpture techniques along with fiber
designs introduced.
Art
III 2D (1 semester, 1 credit): Concentrates on areas
of applied design using various techniques of drawing, painting,
mixed media and printmaking.
Art
III 3D(1 semester, 1 credit): Concentrates on 3D
projects in advanced pottery techniques, found-object assemblages,
3D canvases, and fiber arts. Emphasis on imagery and recycling.
Art
III Studio Art (AP) (2 semesters, 2 credits): Portfolio
of work in drawing required at the end of the year to demonstrate:
“Quality” -6 actual pieces that will be matted,
“Concentration” - Slides of 16 pieces of artwork
developed on a chosen subject and “Breadth” -
Slides of 20 pieces of artwork showing a variety of technique,
interests, and assignments.
Art
IV Studio Art (AP) (2 semesters, 2 credits): Portfolio
of work in drawing, painting, and three-dimensional pieces
required at the end of the year to demonstrate: “Quality”
-4 actual pieces of artwork which show the student’s
very best ability, “Concentration” - Slides of
16 pieces of artwork developed around a specific subject and
“Breadth” - Slides of 20 pieces of artwork including
8 drawings, 8 works on color and design, 2-4 works of sculpture,
pottery or 3D projects.
Art
History (AP) (2 semesters, 2 credits): A full-year,
introductory college course in history of art (primarily Western
art with some attention to the art of other cultures). The
student will examine the history of art including basic information
about artists, schools, and movements. The curriculum deals
with chronological periods, specific dates along with the
subjects, styles, and techniques of particular works of art.
Astronomy
(1 or 2 semesters, 1 or 2 credits): Students will learn to
identify the major stars and constellations by study and observation.
The fundamental concepts of astronomy will include an overall
introduction to astronomy, a brief history of astronomy, gravity
and space travel, and planetary orbits. A study of telescopes,
the nature of light and how astronomers use them to explore
the universe is included. Second semester includes a deeper
study into the theories and concepts of astronomy. Major topics
will include the structure and processes of the sun and the
characteristics and formation of various types of objects
which make up the solar system. Students will also learn the
classifications and life cycles of stars as well as techniques
used to measure their temperatures, distances and motions.
A student project is required.
Audio
Visual Productions (1 or 2 semesters, 1 or 2 credits)
Students will be responsible for producing and televising
the daily announcements and creating a video yearbook.
Botany(1
semester, 1 credit): Complete survey of the plant kingdom
starting with bacteria and ending with flowering plants. Students
will learn to identify plants as well as understand the structures
and functions of the various plant parts. Also examine the
role and economic importance of plants to man and the environment.
Business
& Computer Technology (2 semesters, 2 credits)
and Business & Computer Technology Internship
(2 semesters, 2 credits): Provides student with actual on-the-job
training and work responsibilities directly related to the
occupational objectives learned in the classroom. Curriculum
consists of: word processing, spreadsheets, desktop publishing,
presentation graphics, job interview, and various office procedures
needed in a workplace. Leadership, teamwork, and critical
thinking skills are used in the work experience.
Business
Law (1 semester, 1 credit): Help
student recognize legal problems and utilize professional
counsel. Instruction will include: law and society, enforcement
of the law, making contracts, using credit, contract of employment,
kinds of insurance, how to own or lease property, business
organizations, and will and estate planning.
Business
Management/Ownership (2 semesters, 2 credits) and
Business Management/Ownership Internship
(2 semesters, 2 credits): Provides student with actual on-the-job
training as in the field of management and the opening of
a business and work responsibilities directly related to the
occupational objectives learned in the classroom. Curriculum
consists of: management skills, leadership skills, marketing
research, finance, buying, merchandise control, and knowledge
of opening a business.
Business
Math (2 semesters, 2 credits): Designed to develop
competency in mathematics for consumer and business use. Topics
include budgeting, banking, credit, investing money, purchasing
of cards and housing, life and health insurance, salaries
and taxes, wise money management, and business careers.
Careers
- Employment Skills for the 21st Century (1 semester,
1 credit): Five units that progress logically from the first
steps of career planning to the adult responsibilities of
living on one’s own. These include: planning your
future, entering the world of work; developing your skills
and understanding; becoming a wise consumer; and meeting
your adult responsibilities.
Child
Development (1 semester, 1 credit):
Designed to provide basic knowledge of how children develop.
Attention is focused on skills needed for both parenting and
child-related careers. Using a theoretical framework, students
study physical, cognitive, social-emotional development through
observation, application and projects.
ComSci:
Advanced Computer Technology (1 semester, 1 credit):
Students will use the computer as a tool for in-depth concentration
to prepare for employment and for personal use. Advanced word
processing, advanced spreadsheet, advanced database and personal
information management will be covered in this course.
ComSci:
Computer Technology (1 semester, 1 credit): Students
will use the computer as a tool for learning, collaborating,
and communication. Students will learn computer skills that
can be applied to school work and personal use. Word processing,
spreadsheets, data base, and presentation applications will
be covered. Students will use the Internet, scanner, and digital
camera as tools to enrich work.
ComSci:
Desktop Publishing (1 semester, 1 credit): Introduce
student to activities that can be accomplished with desktop
publishing software packages. Student will design brochures,
flyers, pamphlets, logos, business cards, letterhead and other
documentation common to an office setting.
ComSci:
Multimedia (1 semester, 1 credit): Students will
use computer as a tool to plan and use presentation technology.
Students will complete projects using presentations, animation,
sound, hypermedia, and digital pictures. Additional media
may include newsletters, web pages, and video production.
ComSci:
Programming (1 or semesters, 1 or credits): Students
learn Visual Basic, Basic C, or C++.
Concert
Choir (2 semesters, 2 credits): Performance of a
wide variety of music, ranging from “pop” to
classical. Music theory and reading skills included. Students
will attend all rehearsals, performances,a nd competitions.
Concert
Band (2 semesters, 2 credits): Explores traditional
band repertoire with possibilities of learning a secondary
instrument.
Contemporary
Issues: 1 semester, 1 credit. The purpose of this
course is to broaden the mind of the student and generate
concern for humanity. to make students aware of what is happening
in the universe. Focus is on the various news media; people,
economics, politics, and social events.
Creative
Writing for Publication (2 semesters, 2 credits):
Students will have the opportunity to express themselves in
a variety of writing types. 75% of course will be spent in
creative writing of poetry, dialogue sketches, character sketches,
vignettes, and short stories, 25% of course spent learning
how the publication industry works and how to actually get
paid for your work.
Debate
(2 semesters, 2 credits): Emphasis is placed on communication
skills, research skills, small group theory,and a variety
of presentation technique which are taught and utilized. Competition
participation is expected.
Drama
(2 semesters, 2 credits): Intro to theatre includes a wide
assortment of dramatic activities and acting exercises. Acting
technique and fundamental elements of play production will
be explored.
Drama
II, III, IV (2-6 semesters, 2-6 credits): Drama II
includes a review of the Fundamentals of Drama I. The focus
will be geared to the development of performance techniques
as well as advancements in stage movement and characterization,
audition techniques, play analysis, and play production. Drama
III includes the exploration of character and the refinement
of acting technique. Drama IV includes advanced characterization
and scene analysis, specific types of plays, and an understanding
of acting styles and productions. Play production participation
required in all years.
Drivers
Education (1 semester, 1 credit)
Economics
(1 semester, 1 credit): An Introduction to the study of micro
and macro economics. Students learn practical applications
of the American business system.
Economics
(AP) (2 semesters, 2 credits): Microeconomics places
primary emphasis on the nature and functions of product markets,
and includes the study of factor markets and the role of government
in promoting greater efficiency and equity in the economy.
Macroeconomics places emphasis on the study of national income,
price levels, fiscal and monetary policy, and international
trade.
Family
& Consumer Science (2 semesters, 2 credits):
This course is a program involving community, employers, students
and the school. The development of work-related skills is
emphasized in classroom instruction. The employer provides
a laboratory where students may practice skills and develop
expertise in a real employment situation.
Family
& Consumer Science - Work (2 semesters, 2 credits):
Prerequisite - current enrollment in Family & Consumer
Science. Students must work in a family or consumer science
related occupation.
Foods
and Nutrition (1 semester, 1 credit): An in-depth
course designed to increase basic knowledge and skills in
nutrition, consumerism, menu planning, preparation, and preservation
of food. Attention is also focused on developing social and
entertainment skills.
Foreign
Language (2 to 8 semesters, 2 - 8 credits): Year
I include fundamentals of grammar and culture. Pronunciation
practice, dialogues, grammar, composition, and conversation.
Year 2 is a review of basic grammar plus intro of future and
past tenses. Includes selected readings, composition and conversation,
as well as cultural study. Year 3 includes language proficiency
and cultural awareness while reviewing and broadening their
grammar foundation. Oral and written activities. Year 4 is
culminating course which prepares student for AP exams.
General
Business (1 semester, 1 credit): An introduction
to economics, business, management, automation in industry,
career planning and training, consumer information, money
management, banking and loans, savings, stocks, bonds, insurance
needs, labor and government’s role in business.
History
of Native Americans (1 semester,
1 credit): A study and comparison of the various geographical
cultures, spiritual aspects, and lifestyles of the Native
American tribes of North America and the impact of the European
arrival on native peoples. Current issues facing the Native
American in contemporary society will also be examined.
Horticulture
I (2 semesters, 2 credits): Curriculum is concerned
with the culture of plants in greenhouses and other controlled
environments. Competencies are important in establishing,
maintaining, and managing ornamental horticulture enterprises.
Housing
& Interior Design (1 semester, 1 credit): The
focus of this course is to increase basic knowledge and develop
skills in living space and its design, home selection and
finance, housing exteriors and interiors, selection and purchase
of furnishings, and employment opportunities in the area of
housing and home furnishings.
Industrial
Arts I & II - Woods (1 or 2 semesters, 1 or 2
credits): Introduces student to the safe and proper uses of
woodworking equipment. Basic wood working techniques, joints
and design functions are also covered. During this class,
each student will complete four projects using the stationary
power tools. Semester 2 includes a continuation of all of
the above plus four more projects.
Industrial
Arts I - Drafting (1 semester, 1 credit): Introduces
the student to the tools, lines, lettering, and basic drawing
techniques found in the drafting field. The main emphasis
is on the machine parts area of drafting.
Industrial
Arts II - Drafting (2 semesters, 2 credits): Develop
advanced skills in drafting and mechanical design.
Internet
Language - Independent Study (1 or 2 semesters, 1
or 2 credits): Students will study independently to learn
various internet languages including HTML and Java in order
to create web pages for school. Students will also use various
multimedia tools in the web page design.
Introduction
to Law I (1 semester, 1 credit):
Designed to improve understanding of fundamentals principles
and values of our Constitution, laws, and legal systems. Includes
Introduction to Law and the Legal Systems, Criminal Law and
Juvenile Justice, Tort Law and numerous enrichment activities,
discussion of current events in law and a field trip to the
Oklahoma State Penitentiary (boys) and Eddie Warrior Correctional
Center (girls).
Introduction
to Law II (1 semester, 1 credit): Covers family law,
housing law, alcohol, drugs, tobacco, and consumer law.
Introduction
to Publication (1 semester, 1 credit):
Introductory journalism course which includes historical perspectives
as well as instruction in the techniques of production for
newspaper, magazines, TV, radio, advertising, etc.
Instrumental
Music (2 semesters, 2 credits each): Courses include
Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Concert Band, Marching Band,
Jazz Ensemble, String Orchestra. Each course explores the
repertoire and improves technique.
Journalism (2 semesters, 2 credits): Offers
the student experience in various types of writing, editing,
and layout design. Students are responsible for publication
of the school yearbook or newspaper.
Keyboarding
(1 semester, 1 credit): Instruction include learning the keyboard
using the touch typing method, speed and accuracy mastery,
and developing skills by hands-on production of letters (personal
and business), tabulation and reports.
Literature
of the Old Testament (1 semester,
1 credit): A study of Biblical allusions in epic stories,
heroes, poetry, epigrams, fables, and riddles.
Marketing
Education (2 semesters, 2 credits) and Marketing
Education Internship (2 semesters, 2 credits): Provides
student with actual on-the-job training and work responsibilities
directly related to the occupational objectives learned in
the classroom. Curriculum includes marketing concept, advertising
and promotion, display, economics of marketing, human relations
of marketing, and selling.
Music
Theory (2 semesters, 2 credits): The study of elements
of music through sight-singing, reading, writing, music analysis,
playing, ear-training and music composition. Focus on the
development of fundamental aural, analytical and compositional
skills, while providing a solid foundation in intervals, scales,
chords, metric/rhythm patterns, in relation to the major-minor
tonal system.
Personal
Clothing Management (1 semester,
1 credit): Offers learning experiences in selecting, buying,
and constructing clothing. Focus on wardrobe planning, time
and money-saving techniques, clothing career and maintenance,
children’s clothing, and altering ready-to-wear. Designed
to encourage student creativity as well as build practical
skills.
Physical
Education (1 semester, 1 credit): A well rounded
study covering many different types of physical activity,
as well as contributing to the student’s mental and
social development. Includes basketball, softball, soccer,
volleyball, and other sports.
Physiology
- Sports Medicine (2 semesters, 2 credits): The students
will study the detailed anatomy, identification, treatment
and rehabilitation of injuries. Basic hands-on principles
of athletic training and sports medicine are covered. Incorporates
two college-level classes: Care and Prevention of Athletic
Injuries and First Aid.
Psychology (1
semester, 1 credit): A study of the individual’s
personality, behavior, and general makeup that has resulted
from environment and heredity. the learning processes,
types of behavior, emotions, mental health, and mental
illness are studied. The AP course (2 semesters, 2 credits)
exposes students to the psychological facts, principals,
and methodology associated with each of the major subfields
within psychology.
Recordkeeping (1
semester, 1 credit): Includes handling business funds of
a service business by keeping checking account records,
analyzing daily business transactions, computing sales
taxes, discounts, and payroll; interpreting business forms;
and some journalizing and posting. Recordkeeping activities
will also apply to student’s
personal financial records. Personal income tax preparation
is also presented.
Russian
History (1 semester, 1 credit): A study of the Russian
civilization with major emphasis on the formation of early
Russian state, the Czarist period, the Communist era, and
the transition from Communism to a democratic state.
Sociology (1
semester, 1 credit): Examines how people act, react, and
interact within society’s groups. Also studies the
social problems of adolescence through adulthood.
Theatre
Production (2 semesters, 2 credits): Students will
gain an appreciation and understanding of acting styles and
techniques with specific emphasis given to each semester’s
current production. Additional units will focus on directing
and auditioning. Participation in plays required.
Turnabout
Tutoring (1 or 2 semesters, 1 or 2 credits): Unique
opportunity to earn credit while helping others. After a training
period, tutors travel to elementary and middle schools one
hour each day to tutor selected students in reading or math.
Vocal
Music (2 semesters, 2 credits each): Courses include:
Solo Voice, Concert Choir, Acappela Choir, Chamber Choir.
Performance of music, music theory and reading skills included.
Students attend rehearsals, performances, and competitions.
Weightlifting
(1 semester, 1 credit): Designed to improve students physically
in preparation for all sports or for self-improvement. Includes
techniques and instruction in conditioning, strength training,
and power lifting.
Zoology
(1 semester, 1 credit): Deals with the external characteristics
of animals. Topics include: identification and classification
of animals starting with the lower level animals up to the
higher orders, animal behavior, living environments, and basic
comparative anatomy (mainly skeletal).
There
are many more courses you could choose from. Check out course
descriptions by doing a search online using the name of your
state + high school course description.
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