Course Offerings and Descriptions 

Course Selection and Request for Changes

Students will select courses for the next school year during the spring semester. Factors to be considered in selecting courses are the: requirements for graduation, purpose of the course; or possible prerequisite for other courses.

Advanced Classes Entry Criteria

The Dean of Academics identifies students for honors courses based on the student’s academic performance and his/her teachers’ recommendations.  Freshmen are scheduled into honors courses based on their eighth grade teacher’s recommendation, their eighth grade report cards, and the results of their high school placement test.  Antonian teachers recommend to the Academic Dean students for honors courses based on a student’s potential for success at the next higher level as demonstrated by his/her attitude toward learning and academic performance. 

Students who fail to maintain high academic performance in an honors curriculum are subject to be removed from the honors course and placed at the college preparatory level.  Teachers will review freshmen performance after the first quarter and at the end of the first semester to make recommendations for proper placement to the Dean of Academics.  Teachers of the upper three classes will review student performance at the end of the first semester to make recommendations to the Dean of Academics for adjustments to a student’s schedule.   Generally, students who perform at or below an 80 in an honors curriculum are better suited to study the college preparatory curriculum and are in jeopardy of being removed from honors course.

Honors placement for the following year is made during the 4^th quarter.  The Dean of Academics will designate a specific time and method for teachers to make recommendations.  Generally, students in honors courses must have a current semester average of 88 or higher to be favorably considered for an honors course the following year.   Generally, students who carry a 98 average or higher in college preparatory courses will be favorably considered for placement into honors courses.

The Dean of Academics will discuss with a student any adjustments to his/her schedule due to performance and, as appropriate, notify parents prior to implementation.

College Course Work – Concurrent High School/College Credit

A high school student may earn dual credit toward high school graduation and college credit through successful completion of approved college courses. A student will be awarded credit toward graduation only if he/she obtains prior approval from the school personnel (or is enrolled in a college course on the high school campus specifically identified as dual credit, see paragraph above).

A student who meets the following criteria is eligible to apply for the opportunity to earn high school credit through college course:

The student must have completed his/her freshman year in high school.

The student must have an overall average for all courses of at least 80, or the student must have an average of at least 80 in the last course taken in the general subject-area of the college-level course.

 The student must have successfully completed prerequisite courses as identified by Antonian.

The student must have acceptable scores on college placement exams. (3 or above)

 Correspondence Courses

A high school student may earn two credits toward graduation through correspondence courses. A student will be awarded credit toward graduation only if he obtains approval from the Dean of Academics prior to course enrollment. All grades earned will be entered on the transcript and included in the grade point average.

 Course Offerings

The listings on subsequent pages lists all the high school course offerings with grade placement, credit, prerequisites and some basic information on each course. This information serves as a brief overview of student requirements for high school graduation.

 Theology

 Religion I

This course will discuss a general introduction and overview of the Catholic faith.

Religion II

This course will present a complete overview of Catholic Church History.

Religion III

This course will cover Scripture - Old and New Testament.

Religion IV

This course will cover Catholic Ethics and Morality.

English Language Arts    

 English I             1 credit

 This course concentrates on the fundamental language skills of reading, writing, listening, speaking, and viewing/representing in an effort to build a foundation for student success in advanced high school English classes. Students practice both reading and writing as a process. Students perform an array of reading strategies as they work to become proficient in understanding and responding appropriately to a variety of texts. In terms of writing, students work on development of ideas, voice, fluency, and logical presentation of material. Although direct language instruction occurs in this class, students often work with grammar and usage in their own drafts in efforts to produce error free texts. A study of the short story, poetry, drama, the epic, and the novel, along with practice in literary analysis, is introduced early in the course and sustained through the year. Research skills are taught incrementally.

 English II                   1 credit

This course emphasizes continuing development of language and composition skills. Included within the study is identification of literary themes and forms, the use of effective reading strategies, and the on-going development of speaking/listening and viewing/ representing skills. Through use of multiple writing experiences, the students work on development of ideas, voice, fluency, logical presentation of material, and the practice of appropriate conventions of language. Composition assignments include expository, descriptive, narrative, and persuasive forms. In addition to process pieces, students perform in-class writings of various lengths. Readings for this level are both historic and contemporary, including short stories, essays, novels, dramas, non-fiction, and poetry. The required research project is a career exploration study, which offers students the opportunity to gain relevant life skills.

English III                  1 credit

This yearlong course presents advanced work in composition and in reading. Students practice both reading and writing as a process. The course provides and overview of American literature from the Colonial Period to the Contemporary Period, allowing students to examine samples of traditional and multi-ethnic selections that represent this country's cultural diversity. As students read such pieces, they are asked to focus on comprehension, analysis, and evaluation. Students hone their writing skills as they practice developing their ideas in depth, an effective use of voice, fluency, logical presentation of material, and appropriate conventions of language. In addition to process pieces, students also perform in-class, timed writings. The major research project for English III centers around aspects of American literature, history, or culture. The skills of listening/ speaking and viewing/representing are addressed in the fabric of the course.

English III AP       1 credit

English III H/AP engages students in becoming skilled readers of a variety of prose selections and skilled writers who compose for a variety of purposes. Students become adept at identifying and analyzing the various rhetorical features used in writing as the features contribute to purpose and meaning. The course provides an overview of American literature, including samples of traditional and multi-ethnic selections. Fused with the study of literature is the refinement of composition skills, usage skills, and research skills. Practice in listening/speaking and viewing/representing occurs throughout the course. This course of study is equivalent to an introductory college English course and is available to the student interested in taking the Advanced Placement Examination in English Language and Composition.

 English IV                  1 credit

 This course continues an emphasis on advanced reading strategies and composition techniques integrated with a study of selected British and other world literature. Using the writing process, students work on refining their skills in composition and on developing mature grammatical and stylistic features. In addition, students are expected to demonstrate writing proficiency in various kinds of discourse including exposition and persuasion. Students also review and refine research skills through a variety of research projects. Multiple in-class writings require students to practice thinking skills, organizational skills, and communication skills. Opportunities for practice of listening/speaking and viewing/representing are inherent in the course.

 English IV AP            1 credit

 English IV AP engages students in close reading and written analysis of imaginative literature. Students become adept at identifying and analyzing varied literary techniques as the techniques contribute to purpose and meaning of a selection. Selected writings from the literature of other countries, with an emphasis on British literature from various time periods, serve as the basis for reading and for writing literary analysis. Fused with the study of literature is the continued refinement of composition skills, usage skills, and research skills. Opportunities for practice of listening/speaking and viewing/representing are inherent in the course. This course of study is equivalent to an introductory college English course and is available to the student interested in taking the Advanced Placement Examination in English Language and Composition and/or English Literature and Composition.

 Journalism I/DP    1 credit

 Desktop Publishing provides students with writing and design techniques through the study of technology. Using the knowledge acquired in this course, students will be able to analyze documents, research, and evaluate the hardware and software necessary to produce a product. Students will use desktop publishing as a tool for journalistic writing, appropriate and effective communication, information acquisition, problem-solving, and design techniques. A fee will be charged for necessary supplies. This course is recommended prior to applying for a position on the newspaper or yearbook staff. ♦ This year-long course will meet the technology applications requirement for graduation.

Journalism II – Newspaper1 credit

Journalism -Newspaper courses are designed for students to continue their exploration of the mass media through publication of the high school newspaper. The publication of the newspaper provides students with a public forum to display their opinions, writing, photography, and layout skills. Students will use technology to prepare and manage the newspaper, and are encouraged to develop their interpersonal people skills while working as a publication team. This class

requires work outside of class to complete assignments. Publications' photographers must supply their own camera equipment. Students must have the recommendation of the publications teacher to enroll in Journalism - Newspaper. Production of the newspaper may require 3 to 8 hours of after-school activities per week.

 Journalism II- Yearbook            1 credit

Journalism - Yearbook course, students implement basic journalistic goals of informing and entertaining an audience through the production of the high school yearbook. Students continue to develop their interviewing, writing, design, photography skills, and are encouraged to develop their interpersonal people skills while working as a publication team. Students will use technology to prepare and manage the yearbook. This class requires work outside of class to complete assignments. Publications' photographers must supply their own camera equipment. Students must have the recommendation of the publications teacher to enroll in Journalism - Yearbook. Production of the yearbook may require 3 to 8 hours of after-school activities per week.

 Social Studies

 World Geography            1 credit

 In this course, students analyze the relationships between people, places, and environments. Students use problem solving and decision-making skills to ask and answer geographic questions as well as to determine the geographic factors which have influenced past and present events. A significant portion of the course will center around physical processes, places, and regions, the environment, the political, economic and social processes that shape cultural patterns, human systems such as population distribution and urbanization patterns, and the economic conditions which have led to and reinforced the developed and developing world.

World History Studies 1 credit

The purpose of this required one-year course is to provide students with a thematic study of world history. Students study and answer questions surrounding major themes in history including environment, government, economics, belief systems, cooperation and conflict, and humanities. This approach allows students to make connections between historical and current events.

 

World History – AP1 credit

The purpose of the Advanced Placement World History course is to develop greater understanding of world processes and contacts, in interaction with different types of human societies. Building on a short summary of cultural and institutional world history prior to 1000 (AD), the course focuses primarily on the last 1000 years of global experience. Using a chronological approach, the curriculum uses six major themes as unifying threads, helping students to put what is particular about each time period or society into a larger framework. Knowledge of major developments that illustrate or link the six thematic areas and of major civilizations in Asia, sub-Saharan Africa, Europe, and the Americas is expected.

 United States History 1 credit

 This course is a required one-year study of the United States from 1877 to the present. This time span is divided into small units such as the Progressives, Civil Rights, and the Cold War. Within each unit several factors are considered: geographic, political, economic, social, and international events. Emphasis is placed on relating the effects of past events to the present. The course is enriched with various activities which help students learn social studies skills as well as historical content. These include computer technology, simulations, writing, role playing, decision-making, and authentic assessment.

 US History – AP       1 credit

 The United States History AP course is designed to provide students with the analytic skills and factual knowledge necessary to deal critically with the problems and historical resources of American history. Students will learn to assess historical materials to determine the relevance of those materials to a given problem, and to evaluate the reliability and importance of selected materials. Students will develop skills necessary to make informed judgments and to present reasons and evidence clearly and persuasively in essay format. This course of study is the equivalent of a college introductory course and is available to juniors or seniors interested in taking the AP examination in American history.

 US Government             ½ credit

 The primary objective of this one-semester curriculum is to prepare the student for decision-making within the framework of the American political system. The course begins with an overview of basic concepts found in all political systems, the philosophical background which led to our constitutional development, and the basic concepts found in the constitution. The executive, legislative, and judicial branches of the federal government, including current issues of interest such as foreign affairs, will be studied. In addition, students study the fields of civil rights and liberties, political parties and suffrage, the Texas Constitution, and state and local government. ♦ Prerequisite: U.S. and World History

 US Government – AP ½ credit

 The United States Government Advanced Placement course is designed to provide students with an analytical perspective on government and politics in the United States. This course involves both the study of general concepts used to interpret U.S. politics and the analysis of specific case studies. Students will also engage in an in-depth study of the various institutions, groups, beliefs and ideas that constitute the U.S. political system. Students are guided to use specific information critically to evaluate general propositions about government and politics, as well as to present basic data relevant to government and politics in sustained written arguments. This course of study is the equivalent of a college introductory course and is available to seniors interested in taking the Advanced Placement examination in U.S. Government.

Economics with Emphasis on the Free Enterprise ½ credit

 This one-semester course deals with the way that individuals and societies, particularly our society, have chosen to use scarce resources for the production of alternative goods. Students will learn how these scarce resources are distributed among the various peoples and groups in society. The course emphasizes the economic principles upon which the free enterprise system is based. Students will study the role government plays in this system and compare the American economic system to other types of economic systems. Students will also receive practical information in the field of consumer economics.

♦ Prerequisite: U.S. and World History

Economics – AP       ½ credit

 The Economics Advanced Placement course focuses on the concepts of macroeconomics by providing students an understanding of the principles of economics that apply to an economic system as a whole. Particular emphasis is placed on the study of national income and price determination. The course develops students' familiarity with economic performance measures, economic growth, and international economics. This course of study is the equivalent of a college introductory course and is available to seniors interested in taking the Advanced Placement examination in Economics.

♦ Prerequisite: U.S. History and World History

Mathematics

Algebra I                    1 credit

Algebra I begins the study of functions. Functions represent the systematic dependence of one quantity on another. Students use functions to represent and model problem situations and to analyze and interpret relationships. Students work in many situations to set up equations and inequalities and use a variety of methods to solve them. A variety of representations (concrete, numerical, algorithmic, and graphical), tools, and graphing calculators are used to model mathematical situations and solve meaningful problems. Coursework concentrates on foundations for functions, linear functions, and quadratic and other nonlinear functions. All ninth-grade students who did not take Algebra I in eighth grade will enroll in this course.

 Geometry                  1 credit

 Geometry consists of the study of geometric figures of zero, one, two, and three dimensions and the relationships having to do with size, shape, location, direction, and orientation of these figures. The students use a variety of representations, tools, and technology to solve meaningful problems by representing figures, transforming figures, analyzing relationships, and proving things about them. Topics will include congruency, similarity, dimensionality, and patterning of all geometric figures.

 Algebra II                  1 credit

 Algebra II continues the study of functions that began in Algebra I, utilizing a more sophisticated approach. Students use functions and equations as a means for analyzing and understanding a broad variety of relationships and as a useful tool for expressing generalizations. The course emphasizes the use of equations and functions to represent geometric curves and figures and the connections between algebra and geometry as tools of one to help solve problems in the other. Functions studied include quadratic and square root, rational, and exponential and logarithmic. Conic sections (non-functions) are also studied. Computers and graphing calculators will be used extensively.

♦ Prerequisite: Geometry

 Precalculus ½-1 credit

In Precalculus, students use functions, equations, and limits as useful tools for expressing  generalizations and as means for analyzing and understanding a broad variety of mathematical relationships. Functions are used to represent and connect ideas in geometry, probability, statistics, trigonometry, and calculus and to model physical situations. Topics include polynomial, rational, radical, exponential, logarithmic, trigonometric, and piecewise-defined functions, sequences and series, parametric representations of conic sections, and vectors. Computers and graphing calculators will be extensively integrated in the coursework. ♦ Prerequisite: Algebra II

 Calculus                     1 credit

The courses follow the AB or BC outline prescribed by the College Board and, as such, the Calculus AP test given in May for college placement is encouraged. Limits of functions, continuity, and derivatives are studied in detail. Both indefinite and definite integrals are explored, with applications to area and volume. The antiderivative, sequences and series and differential equations are also included along with analytic geometry. The student will study the line, vectors in a plane, the circle, conics, relations, functions and their graphs, the intersections of loci, non-linear inequalities in the plane, parametric equations, polar coordinated, and solid analytic geometry. Computers and graphing calculators will be used extensively. ♦ Prerequisite: Precalculus

 

Mathematical Models with Applications            1 credit

In this course, student use algebraic, graphical, and geometric reasoning to recognize patterns and structure, to model information, and to solve problems from various disciplines. Students use mathematical methods to model and solve real-life applied problems involving money, data, chance, patterns, music design, and science. Math models from algebra, geometry, probability, and statistics and connections among these are used to solve problems from a wide variety of advanced applications in both mathematical and non-mathematical situations. ♦ Prerequisite: Geometry

 Computer Science I 1 credit

 This course is a college preparatory course designed to allow students to study programming methodology and design, data structures, and algorithms. Students are provided the opportunity to enhance their problem-solving and logical-thinking skills. Computer applications studied include text processing, data analysis, data management, simulations, and graphics. The primary programming language used is Java. ♦ Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in or successful completion of Geometry or Algebra II.

 Web Mastering             1/2 credit

Students will learn how to design, create, and maintain web pages. Projects will incorporate HTML, FrontPage, Photoshop, digital camera, and scanner.

Journalism I / Desktop Publishing 1 credit

Desktop Publishing provides students with writing and design techniques through the study of technology. Using the knowledge acquired in this course, students will be able to analyze documents, research, and evaluate the hardware and software necessary to produce a product. Students will use desktop publishing as a tool for journalistic writing, appropriate and effective communication, information acquisition, problem-solving, and design techniques. A fee will be charged for necessary supplies. This course is recommended prior to applying for a position on the newspaper or yearbook staff.

 Science

Biology I                     1 credit

 Biology I is the study of all living things. It is a lab-oriented course which emphasizes structure and function, growth and development, cells, tissues and organs, nucleic acids and genetics, biological evolution, taxonomy, and the relationships between living things and the environment.

 Anatomy/Physiology  1 credit

 Anatomy and Physiology is a college preparatory course designed to extend the student's knowledge and understanding of the human body in respect to its structure and function. A survey of each organ system is presented with initial emphasis upon its anatomy, followed by an in-depth study of its physiology. This course is lab-oriented and teaches proper dissection techniques as well as various physiological phenomena. This course is recommended for students pursuing an education in the medical sciences. ♦ Prerequisite: Biology I

 Chemistry I        1 credit

 Chemistry I is a lab-oriented course. Data gathering and data interpretation are emphasized. The following topics are studied: metric system, atomic structure, kinetic molecular theory, periodic classification of the elements, stoichiometry, solution reactions and bonding, nuclear chemistry, introduction to organic chemistry, oxidation reduction, and electro-chemistry. ♦ Prerequisite: Biology I, Algebra I, Geometry, and concurrent enrollment in Algebra II.

 Physics I                    1 credit

The major topics of study in this lab-oriented course are mechanics of particles and rigid bodies, thermodynamics, fluids, heat, wave motion, sound, light, electricity, magnetism, and electromagnetism. Some topics in modern physics are considered at the end of the year. Emphasis is placed upon the identification of fundamental quantities and the principles which are used to organize and comprehend physical events. ♦ Prerequisites: Chemistry I ♦ Prerequisites: Concurrent enrollment in Precalculus.

Chemistry AP       1 credit

 Comparable to a first-year college course, this course is an in-depth study of the principles and concepts in chemistry. Students are required to demonstrate an understanding of these principles through application in a laboratory situation. Content includes structure and bonding, stoichiometry, thermodynamics, kinetics, and quantitative analysis. This course is designed toward advanced placement for the college-bound student. ♦ Prerequisite: Chemistry I, Physics I, or concurrent enrollment strongly recommended.

Physics AP                 1 credit

 This course stresses application of mathematics to physical situations, principles of mechanics, and thermodynamics. Considerable emphasis is placed on laboratory investigation and student research. This course is designed toward advanced placement for the college bound student. Students who take the course will be prepared for the AP-B exam. ♦ Prerequisites: Physics I and Precalculus. Concurrent enrollment in Calculus recommended.

Languages Other Than English

 ♦ Spanish

Spanish I                   1 credit

This course introduces students to Spanish and develops their proficiency in speaking, listening, reading and writing in Spanish. At the end of Level I, students should be able to engage in simple conversations within the limitations of their knowledge of vocabulary and sentence structure. They will also become acquainted with cultures of the Spanish-speaking countries.

 Spanish II                  1 credit

 The four basic language skills introduced in Level I are further developed in Level II. Vocabulary is stressed while reading serves to reinforce the oral skill. Communication in the language remains the main goal; hence, classes are conducted in Spanish within practical limits. Conversational and reading materials are based upon Spanish and American life, thereby giving the student some insight into these cultures.

Spanish III                1 credit

Level III provides an enhanced understanding of the Spanish language and the life of the Spanish-speaking world. Continued emphasis is given to increased proficiency in speaking, listening, reading and writing. Classes are conducted in Spanish and emphasis is placed on reinforcement of the four basic skills and increased cultural awareness.

Spanish IV AP       1 credit

 Level IV pursues the study of the Spanish language through Spanish and Spanish American literature. This study is based on the College Board Advanced Placement Curriculum. Emphasis is placed on reading skills, oral and writing proficiency, and grammar. Classes are conducted in Spanish. Students are encouraged to take the AP Exam.

♦ Latin

Latin I                         1 credit

 The purpose of this course is to introduce the student to Latin and to develop skills in the reading and writing of the language. Emphasis is placed on reading comprehension, development of oral and written skills and vocabulary derivatives. Brief studies are made of the ancient Roman world, daily life, mythology, and history, including life, art, and architecture.

Latin II                       1 credit

 Latin II is a continuation of Latin I. New grammar and concepts are introduced with an increased emphasis on reading, writing, speaking, and listening. The cultural emphasis is on the Roman Empire.

Latin III-IV AP       1-2 credits

Latin III emphasizes the works of major Latin authors with an introduction of Cicero. Latin IV introduces Virgil and The Aeneid. Both courses continue the development of the four skills of reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Students in Level IV will follow the College Board Advanced Placement curriculum and will have the option of taking the AP exam.

 Physical Education / Health

 ♦ Physical Education

Physical Education is offered each year of high school. A student is required to take physical education a minimum of three semesters and may earn a maximum of two credits toward graduation, including athletics.

Foundations of Personal Fitness             ½ credit to 2 credits

This course enables students to incorporate health and physical behaviors into their lifestyles. Emphasis will be on giving students knowledge and skills in the following areas: components of physical fitness, consumer issues, biomechanical and physiological principles, safety practices, lifestyle assessment, assessment of individual fitness levels, and design of a personal fitness program.

 Aerobic Activities             ½ credit

This course is a comprehensive study of components of physical fitness, biomechanical and physiological principles, assessment of individual fitness levels, and design of a personal fitness program. The students will be given the opportunity to enhance muscle strength and cardiovascular endurance with the objective of developing and demonstrating a lifetime commitment to physical well being.

♦ Prerequisite: Foundations of Personal Fitness

 Athletics                    ½ - 2 credits

 Athletics is offered each year of high school and includes choices from twenty different sports for both men and women. A student enrolled in athletics may earn a maximum of two credits toward graduation. Athletics is an instructional model designed to provide athletes with an authentic, in-depth sport experience. It is intended to move isolated skill practice into sequential, progressive, and realistic game situations with the primary objective of developing highly competitive team members. Taking responsibility for personal and social behavior, and respecting differences among people in sport settings are all inherent within the team model. Athletes are actively engaged in the sport of choice, working on skills for game play situations under the direction of their head coach. Students are placed in athletics as the result of student performance criteria conducted in pre-season tryout sessions and ultimate recommendation from the head coach. Students elected to participate must maintain academic eligibility as mandated by the University Interscholastic League.

♦ Dance

Dance I-II             ½-1½ credits

Dance I and II students will learn fundamental skills in these dance techniques: ballet, modern, jazz, tap, folk, character, and ethnic. In addition, course objectives will emphasize (1) creative expression through movement; (2) awareness of space, time, and energy in dance technique and improvisational studies; (3) development of self confidence through the use of the body as an expressive instrument; and (4) appreciation of dance as an art form. Students enrolled in Dance I will receive physical education credit. Students enrolled in Dance II will receive a P.E. credit in the fall and fine arts credit in the spring. Beginning with the class of 2007, Dance II will earn 1 fine arts credit with a P.E. waiver for the fall semester. See description of Dance II-IV in the Fine Arts section

 ♦ Health

 Health                        ½ credit

 In Health, students develop skills that will make them health-literate adults. Students gain a deeper understanding of the knowledge and behaviors they use to safeguard their health, particularly pertaining to health risks. Students are taught how to access accurate information that they can use to promote health for themselves and others. Students use problem-solving, research, goal-setting and communication skills to protect their health and that of the community.

Specific topics in the abstinence-based sex education curriculum include decision-making concerning dating, love, relationships, and marriage and family. Other issues addressed are the problems of teen pregnancy and parenthood, sexually transmitted diseases, sexual harassment and abuse, rape prevention and the failure rate of contraceptive methods when used either to prevent pregnancy or disease. Parents will have an opportunity to attend a preview night of the curriculum. Also, take-home assignments will provide avenues for parent/student communication.

Because of the sensitive nature of these topics and the information about lifelong choices, students should consider their goals and maturity level when choosing the best time to take this course. With parent permission, this course may be delayed until grade 11 or 12, taken by correspondence, or taken for dual college credit. The health requirement may also be met by successful completion of one credit of Health Science Technology Education, or students may take Anatomy and Physiology and receive credit for health upon successful completion of the health credit-by-exam.

Fine Arts

♦ Visual Arts

 Materials and equipment are provided for the course. The student is responsible for purchasing basic art supplies. This list is given to the student the first week of school. Additional materials charges occur when students choose to use special materials, or make their artwork larger than the materials provided. Only one state credit may be earned at the Art I level.

Art I - Two Dimensional Emphasis             ½-1 credit

 Art I is a basic course in design with a two-dimensional emphasis and provides a foundation for succeeding courses. No prior drawing skills are necessary because the elements and principles of design are emphasized through a variety of experiences and problems in design, drawing, painting, printmaking, electronic media, and sculpture. The course includes a survey of historical and cultural developments in art. Students develop skills in observing, problem-solving, manipulating art media, and evaluating art works. Preparation of a portfolio is required. One full credit (2 semesters) must be earned in Art I for entry into a Level II art course.

 ♦ Theatre Arts

 Students involved in theatre productions will be required to attend rehearsals or crew calls after school or in the evenings. The amount of time required will not exceed 8 hours per week from Monday through Thursday. Students may be expected to attend rehearsals or work days on Friday and Saturday. Specific rehearsal times will vary by school and the theatre arts teacher will provide a complete rehearsal schedule.

Theatre Arts I (Drama)            1 credit

 This is a course in the fundamentals of theatre production designed to acquaint the student with pantomime, improvisation, and the rudiments of acting, as well as the technical aspects of theatre such as sets, props, costumes, and makeup.

 ♦ Music

Possible costs include an instrument and accessories, instrument repairs, and uniform cleaning fees. Other required costs determined by the director may include shirts for marching band and concert uniforms, socks, and marching band shoes. Optional costs could include fees for region auditions, solo and ensemble contest, accompanist fees for solo and ensemble contest, trip costs, and private lessons.

 Band I-IV                   4 credits

 The high school band program provides four to five levels of band classes during the school day. Instructional priorities include instrumental technique, musicianship, critical listening, cultural growth, basic music theory, creative self-expression, rehearsal and concert etiquette, self-discipline, responsible citizenship, effective communication, problem solving, and production of quality products. The band year is divided into marching season and concert season. During marching season, students learn marching fundamentals, marching chart reading, how to play and march simultaneously, spatial awareness, kinesthetic awareness and movement memory. A variety of musical styles are performed. Physical conditioning is also emphasized. Students should be in good physical condition to participate. Concert season provides students an opportunity to continue musical growth and experience music literature. Individual, small, and large ensemble concepts and skills are emphasized. One or more levels of performing bands may be offered. Students are placed in each level by specific performance criteria including an audition. Performances during the concert season include 2-3 concerts. Students may also participate in a series of auditions related to the all state process as well as solo and ensemble contests.

 Choral Music I           1 credits

This course is designed to develop and refine music reading skills and to encourage artistic expression through choral singing. Rehearsals focus on choral techniques through proper vocal production. Theory and sight-reading techniques are also emphasized with continued development of the knowledge and skills in musicianship and performance. Students will sing literature from the Renaissance to popular and show choir music. This enables the students to gain an appreciation for different vocal styles, composers, form, periods, and cultures. Choir classes are ability-based and placement is determined by various performance criteria developed by the choral staff and may include an audition. A student with no prior experience may enroll in the program and will be place in the appropriate group by the director.

Attendance at after-school rehearsals and performances is a requirement for the performing choirs. Students will participate in two to three per year, and may participate in solo and ensemble contest, UIL concert and sight-reading contest, or a music festival.

Music Theory I           1 credits

For students who are interested in a serious, in-depth study of music, this course offers instruction in the analysis of music composition, scale construction, chord construction and progression, melodic construction, and analysis of published literature.

♦ Dance

Possible costs include costumes, practice apparel, camps, trips, individual entry fees, and other items specific to each school. Specific costs expectations vary from campus to campus and are available from dance instructor. Costs for the first year of drill team are the highest. Estimated costs range from $800-1200 for the first year. Students with established financial need should contact the director if there are concerns about being a member of the group. Students may be placed in a class, schedule permitting.

 Dance I                                  1 credit

Dance I in the fall students will earn PE credit. During the spring semester, students will earn fine arts credit. See Dance I course description in the physical education section for more informa