Blue Ridge Course Catalog

High School English Courses

English I
(1 Credit)
Introduces the elements of writing demonstrated in poems, short stories, plays, and essays. Grammar skills are enhanced by the study of sentence structure and style and by student composition of paragraphs and short essays. Topics include narration, exposition, description, argumentation, punctuation, usage, spelling, and sentence and paragraph structure.
(36 submissions, 4 exams)

English II
(1 Credit)
Focuses on using personal experiences, opinions, and interests as a foundation for writing. Skills acquired in English I are reinforced and polished. Literary models are provided to demonstrate paragraph unity and a more sophisticated word choice. A research paper is required for completion of course. Topics include grammar, sentence and paragraph structure, organizing compositions, and the research paper.
(36 submissions, 4 exams, 1 paper)

English III – American Literature
(1 Credit)
Surveys American authors and the historical development of literature in America. The course illustrates how the events in history and the cultural heritage of the times influenced the work of authors. The ability to analyze literary works is stressed. Topics include Puritanism, Deism, Neoclassicism, Romanticism, Transcendentalism, Realism, and Naturalism.
(36 submissions, 4 exams)

English IV – British Literature
(1 Credit)
Studies British literature in order of the historical time periods and shows the influence of cultural and historical change on the authors’ themes. Composition skills are expanded with an emphasis on analyzing literary works. Topics include Chaucer and the Middle Ages, Shakespeare, the Cavalier Poets, and the Romantic, Victorian and Modern eras.
(30 submissions, 4 exams)
*Requires Shakespeare's Henry V

World Literature
(1 credit)
Provides the student with a selection of the world's best and most well-known literature. Lesson notes supplement reading assignments and emphasize common themes found across cultures and historical timelines. Submissions use a combination of objective multiple choice and short answer questions, as well as subjective questions that require students to support their opinions. Finally, two full-length paper assignments ask students to apply their knowledge in essay form.
(23 submissions, 2 labs, 4 exams)
*Textbook Required
**Elective

Structure of Writing
(1/2 Credit)
Focuses on the fundamentals of grammar and usage to strengthen writing skills. Journal assignments and expository and narrative writing are required. Topics include vocabulary; spelling; coordination and subordination; simple, compound, and complex sentences; and the construction of clearly written paragraphs and essays.
(17 submissions, 2 exams)
* Elective

High School Math Courses

Consumer/Business Math
(1 Credit)
Focuses on reviewing and applying arithmetic skills utilized at home and in business. Students learn how to budget, spend, invest, and make everyday financial decisions. Topics include budgeting, computing income and property taxes, investing in the stock market, finding interest rates, analyzing statistics, and balancing financial accounts.
(33 submissions, 4 exams)

Pre-Algebra
(1 Credit)
Sharpens students’ arithmetic skills and illustrates abstract concepts by introducing linear equations, number patterns, the order of operations, linear inequalities, fractions, exponents, and factoring. Some basic components of geometry are discussed.
(36 submissions, 4 exams)

Algebra I
(1 Credit)
Leads the student through elementary algebra using the Saxon method. Students learn how to add, subtract, multiply and divide monomials. Other areas of discussion include integral equations, factoring, fractions, simultaneous equations, quadratic equations, the theory of exponents, and graphing.
(36 submissions, 4 exams)

Geometry
(1 Credit)
Introduces the principal concepts of geometric terms and processes, as well as problem solving and logic. Topics discussed are lines, planes, triangles, circles, theorems, constructions, the measurement of solid figures, coordinates, and proofs.
(36 submissions, 4 exams)

Algebra II
(1 Credit)
Extends the algebraic functions learned in Algebra I by bringing in concepts of linear, quadratic, and simultaneous equations; laws of exponents; progression; binomial theorems; and logarithms.
Prerequisite – Successful completion of Algebra I and at least one semester of Geometry
(36 submissions, 4 exams)

High School Science Courses

Physical Science
(1 Credit)
Provides an overview of the physical sciences, such as chemistry and physics, and natural resources, energy use, and the environment. Students are introduced to the standards of measurement (the SI system) and the natural laws that form the building blocks of all sciences.
(25 submissions, 4 exams)
*Textbook Required

Earth Science
(1 Credit)
Surveys basic physical sciences such as geology, biology, meteorology, oceanography, astronomy, botany, and physics and their impact on the earth and its processes. Students are guided to a better understanding of how the earth and the universe are structured.
(34 submissions, 6 labs, 4 exams)

Biology
(1 Credit)
Introduces students to the five kingdoms of living organisms and identifies their structure, function, classification, and inter-relationships, as well as their relationship to the environment. Additional topics of discussion include cellular reproduction and respiration, energy and metabolism, photosynthesis, human physiology, ecosystems, and vertebrates and invertebrates.
(36 submissions, 3 labs, 4 exams)

Chemistry
(1 Credit)
Covers chemical theory, descriptive chemistry, and the changes in matter and its properties. Students learn how to classify the different states of matter as well as how atoms and compounds are structured. Additional areas of discussion include chemical energetics, measurements, bonding, stoichiometry, ionization, hydrocarbons, oxidation and reduction. Simple lab experiments are required.
(33 submissions, 14 labs, 4 exams)

Physics
(1 Credit)
Introduces students to the physics of motion, properties of matter, force, heat, vector, light, and sound. Students learn the history of physics from the discoveries of Galileo and Newton to modern-day physicists. The course focuses more on explanation than calculation and will prepare the student for introductory quantitative physics at the college level. Additional areas of discussion include gases and liquids, atoms, electricity, magnetism, and nuclear physics.
(24 submissions, 4 exams)

High School Social Studies/History Courses

American Government
(1 Credit)
Introduces students to a comprehensive survey of the operation and development of federal, state, county and city governments. The course examines all aspects of government: its statute making, diplomacy, labor policies, public finance, and the contrasts between national, state and local levels of government. Topics emphasize the branches of government, the checks and balance system of the national government, the separation of power, and the role of the government in promoting the interests of the people and involving itself in current topics. Other areas of discussion include the Constitution; civil rights and equality; the legislative, judicial and executive branches; the Federal Reserve System, and foreign policy.
(24 lessons, 5 submissions, 4 exams)

U.S. History
(1 Credit)
Examines the founding and development of the United States from the start of European exploration and settling of the original colonies to how they grew and became a powerful united nation. Topics covered include the pre-colonial cultures of Indigenous peoples, the arrival and impact of Europeans in  North America, the Revolutionary War, Manifest Destiny, the Civil War, the Industrial Revolution, the United States in the 20th Century, and the influence of immigration on American society and culture. Also incorporated are instruction in the development of economics, politics, society, and the culture of America.
(36 submissions, 16 submissions, 4 exams)

World History Before 1815
(1/2 Credit)
Provides an overview of human events from the first use of agriculture 15,000 years ago until the French Revolution in  1815. The focus is on major events, including the rise of civilizations, the growth of political powers, social and economic developments overtime. The course identifies the inventions, historical figures, and ideas of the past which influence the present and future. Topics include the foundations of ancient civilizations, the Renaissance, great Eastern powers, the age of exploration, the scientific revolution and the Enlightenment, and the French revolution. (20 submissions, 2 exams)  *If your state requires world history from the beginning to today, enroll in this course and then take World History Since 1815.

World History Since 1815
(1/2 Credit)
Provides an overview of world history from the end of the French revolution until present day.  The focus is on major events, including growth of imperialism and nationalism, the advancement of political powers, social and economic developments, and global growth and crisis.  The course identifies the inventions, historical figures, and ideas of the past which influence the present and future.  Topics include the Industrial Revolution, the African and Asian colonial experience, the rise of European nationalism, World Wars I &II, the Cold War, and the rise of Asian economies, post-colonial Africa, and the global war on terror.
(19 submissions, 2 exams)  *This course should be taken after World History Since 1815 is complete.

World History Since 1500
(1 Credit)
Provides and overview of human history from the Renaissance at the end of the Middle Ages until present day.  The focus is on major events, including the rise of civilization growth of imperialism and nationalism, the advancement of political powers, social and economic developments, and global growth and crisis. 
Topics included the Renaissance, the Enlightenment, the French Revolution, the Industrial Revolution, colonialism, imperialism, nationalism, and global growth and crisis.
(25 submission, 4 exams)
*If your state requires world history from 1500 to today, enroll this course.

Geography: An Introduction
(1 Credit)
Introduces terminology used in both physical and human geography and teaches students about different countries in the world, their languages, religions, political systems and economics. Landforms of mountains and major rivers will be discussed. Topics include the countries of North America, Latin America, Asia, Antarctica, Europe, Africa, and the Pacific.
(36 submissions, 4 exams)
*Requires World Atlas

Economics
(1 Credit)
Introduces students to how decisions are made in the four areas of production. Topics include saving, spending, and borrowing; the law of supply and demand, the Federal Reserve System; sources of money supply; and how the government plays a unique role in an open market economy.
(20 submissions, 4 exams)

Native American Studies I
(1/2 Credit)
Offers an overview of historical and cultural issues affecting Native American people and tribes today. The primary objective for this course is to enrich the knowledge and understanding of Native American people from a Native American perspective. For too long, the story of the Native American experience has been told from the viewpoint of the colonizer in American text books. In this course, we confront false images, stereotypes, inaccurate myths and distortions from a historical perspective. This course is designed for both Native American and non-Native American students so everyone can better understand human similarities and differences as well as recognize the contributions that Native American people and cultures have made to the world.
(18 submissions, 4 labs, 2 exams)

Native American Studies II
(1/2 Credit)
Offers an overview of contemporary, cultural issues affecting Native American people and tribes today.  The primary objective for this course is to enrich the knowledge and understanding of Native American people from Native American perspective.  In this course, we confront issues facing contemporary Native Americans, including world views, spirituality, language, health, socioeconomic, art, images in media, organizations, veterans, and modern day pow-wows.  This course is designed for both Native American and non-Native American students so everyone can better understand human similarities and differences as well as recognize the contributions that Native American people and cultures have made to the world.
(18 submissions, 4 labs, 2 exams)

Social Issues
(1/2 Credit)
Designed to help students understand current issues.  Students will learn to form opinions on controversial topics in the news as of 2006.  The social issues described in this course have been around for centuries and will likely continue to present challenges to citizens and lawmakers in the future.  Topics include the media, civil liberties, gun control, crime and drugs, poverty, racism, women’s rights, immigration, abortion, stem cell research, education, and foreign policy and terrorism.  (15 submissions, 2 exams)

Career Education Courses

Career Exploration
(1/2 Credit)
This semester course provides students opportunities to set personal and career goals while developing employability skills. Students are guided through exercises that teach them about career clusters and paths, educational options after high school, and practical job-seeking strategies such as completing applications, composing effective resumes and cover letters, and navigating the interview process. Students conduct research throughout the course and present their findings in written and oral projects.
(17 submissions, 2 exams)

High School Fine Arts Courses

Art History
(1 Credit)
Introduces painting, sculpture, and architecture from ancient times to the 20th Century. By studying various forms of art from the historical periods, students develop an eye for technique. Topics include Greek and Roman art, Renaissance painting and sculpture, Baroque and Neoclassical art, Impressionism, Expressionism, and abstract art.
(31 submissions, 4 exams)
Health/Physical Education #09000000

Health
(1/2 Credit)
Teaches human anatomy and physiology and increases student awareness of healthy lifestyle choices and the importance of physical fitness. Topics discussed include nutrition; fitness fundamentals; mental and emotional well-being; the effects of drugs, alcohol, and tobacco; the environment; and public health and infectious diseases, as well as safety, accident prevention, and first aid.
(8 submissions, 2 exams)

High School Elective Courses

Service Learning
(1/2 credit, 1 credit)
Service learning is a way that students can provide service in the community on a voluntary basis to public, nonprofit, civic, charitable and governmental organizations. Students who participate in service learning can earn a ½ credit for 75 hours. Students may elect to earn a full credit for an additional 75 hours in a different experience.

Work Experience
(1/2 credit, 1 credit)
Work experience is a way students can earn credit by working on a job site and learning through experience. A student must have taken or currently be enrolled in Career Explorations to be eligible for work experience credit.  Students may earn a ½ credit by completing 75 hours in an 18 week period. Students may earn a full credit by repeating the same experience next semester.

Fine Arts
(1/2 credit, 1 credit)
Fine arts is the knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture. Students may earn a ½ credit through active participation in a fine arts program.

Physical Education
(1/2 Credit)
Students may earn one credit for participating in an organized sport or a physical education program.

Middle School Course Catalog

Middle School English Courses

English 7
(1 Credit)
Integrates the study of writing and literature through the examination of a variety of genres. Students will identify the elements of composition in the reading selections to understand their function and effect on the reader. Practice is provided in narrative and expository writing. Topics include comparison and contrast, persuasive, and cause and effect essays, as well as descriptive and figurative language. Lessons are supplemented with vocabulary development, grammar, and syntax exercises, along with an introduction to verbal phrases and research tools.
(36 submissions, 8 labs, 4 exams)

Reading 7
(1 Credit)
Improves students’ comprehension skills and introduces the elements of literature. Exercises accompanying reading selections develop habits of careful reading and analysis of both prose and poetry. Students define and learn to recognize and employ literary devices such as metaphors, similes, alliteration, dialogue, point of view, and personification. They are taught to distinguish between fact and opinion in non-fiction. The course provides opportunities for students to improve their own writing and to expand vocabulary.
(36 submissions, 4 exams)
*Textbook Required

English 8
(1 Credit)
Extends the skills developed in English 7 through detailed study of parts of sentences and paragraphs to understand their importance to good writing. Students will also acquire study skills such as time management and test-taking strategies. Other topics include punctuation, word choice, syntax, varying sentence structure, subordination and coordination, detail and elaboration, effective use of reference materials, and proofreading.
(36 submissions, 9 labs, 4 exams)

Reading 8
(1 Credit)
Reinforces and expands the reading skills developed in Reading 7. Emphasis in this course is on critical thinking and understanding the relationships that exist between people, ideas, and events. Readings are excerpts and short selections of fiction and non-fiction, including biographies, autobiographies, and personal essays. The more complex literary devices, such as irony, exaggeration and understatement, allusion, tone, and style are studied. Students continue vocabulary building with special attention to distinguishing between connotation and denotation.
(36 submissions, 4 exams)
*Textbook Required

Middle School Math Courses

Math 7V.2
(1 Credit)
Explores basic math concepts and their applications. Students will increase their skill with decimals, fractions, percents, and ratios. The course provides tools for problem solving and includes an introduction to algebra and geometry. Among the topics studied are discrete math and probability, surface area, equations, statistics, and data analysis.
(36 submissions, 4 exams)