2009-2010 CURRICULUM LIST

ROCK FALLS TOWNSHIP HIGH SCHOOL

 

 

The following credits are required to graduate from Rock Falls High School.  Beginning with the Class of 2010, the number of credits required for graduation will increase from 20 1/2 credits to 22 credits.  Beginning with the Class of 2012, the number of English credits required for graduation will increase from 3 to 4:

 

Course:                                        Classes of 2010     Class of 2012

                                                            & 2011               & beyond

 

English                                                  3 1/2                            4                                 

 

Mathematics                                         3                                  3         

 

Science                                                2                                  2

                                               

Social Studies                                       2                                  2

           

Consumer Education                             1/2                               1/2

 

Driver’s Education                                1/2                               1/2

 

Health                                                  1/2                               1/2

             

Physical Education                                3                                  3

 

Music, Art, Foreign Lang.,

  or Vocational Educ.                            1                                 1         

 

Electives                                               6__                              5 1/2

 

TOTALS                                             22                                22

 

 

 

 

 

Any need for a variation from a required course will be handled on an individual basis.


ART DEPARTMENT

 

Title:  ART 2D 1

Grade Level:  9, 10, 11, 12    Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Fee:  $20.00

Prerequisite:  None.

Content:  The focus of this class is to introduce students to the idea of 2 dimensional art; art which is flat in nature such as paintings, drawing, or printmaking.  This course would be appropriate for both the beginning and experienced artist.  Students will be taken through a variety of studio projects to introduce them to a variety of 2 dimensional media and techniques.  Students will be encouraged to expand upon basic ideas to include his/her own interests and ideas.  Concepts, techniques and media will be taught in such a manner that students who put forth effort, regardless of skill level will have success in creating one of a kind, interesting artwork.  In addition to studio projects, reading, quizzes, research projects and other classroom activities will be part of the course curriculum.  It is recommended that students take this course in conjunction with Art 3D 1.  It is also recommended that students interested in art take this course their freshman year

 

Title:  ART 3D 1

Grade Level:  9, 10, 11, 12    Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Fee:  $20.00

Prerequisite:  None.

Content:  The focus of this class is to introduce students to the idea of 3 dimensional art, better known as sculpture.  Sculpture includes a variety of end products such as pottery, jewelry, architecture and any other form of creative expression; which can be viewed from multiple angles.  This course would be appropriate for both the beginning and experienced artist.  During the course students will be introduced to a variety of sculptural media such as clay, metal and found objects to create artwork.  Concepts and techniques will be taught in such a manner that students who put forth effort, regardless of skill level will have success.  In addition to creating artworks, students can expect course work such as quizzes, reading, research projects and a variety of other classroom activities.  It is recommended that students take this course in conjunction with Art 2D 1.  It is also recommended that students with an interest in art take this course their freshman year. 

 

Title:  ART 2D 2

Grade Level:  9, 10, 11, 12    Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Fee:  $20.00

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Art 2D 1.

Content:  Students taking Art 2D 2 can expect to continue their studies of 2 dimensional art.  In addition to continuing to study drafting and painting materials, students will begin to look closer at established art throughout history.  Students can expect to study a variety of styles of art from early man to recent times.  Through the study of art history, students will begin to create works of art to communicate ideas and concepts of importance to them.  The intention of this course is to begin to show a connection between art history and student concerns today such as love, class, and politics.  Students can expect continued study in media and technique and instructor will begin more direct instruction of traditional drafting and painting skills.  Course curriculum will also consist of reading, writing and other classroom activities. 

 

Title:  ART 3D 2

Grade Level:  9, 10, 11, 12    Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Art 3D 1.

Fee:  $20.00

Content:  Students enrolled in Art 3D 2 will continue to study sculptural art and its related media.  In addition to continuing to study sculptural techniques like carving and casting, students will begin to look closer at established art throughout history.  Students can expect to study a variety of styles of art from early man to recent times.  Through the study of art history students will begin to create works of art to communicate ideas and concepts of importance to them.  The intention of this course is to begin to show a connection between art history and student concerns today such as money, family and social issues. Students can expect continued study in media and techniques and instructor will begin more direct instruction on traditional sculpting techniques and skills.  Course curriculum will also consist of reading, writing, and other classroom activities.

 

Title:  ART 2D 3

Grade Level:  10, 11, 12        Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Art 2D 2.

Fee:  $20.00

Content:  It is the intention of Art 2D 3 to educate students on the role of art today in western society through the study of fine art, new technologies in art (such as computers and photography), commercial art/graphic design and other related studies.  Students will begin to work with drawing/painting and printmaking media in a more independent, self-guided manner.  Projects and tasks will be more open-ended, allowing for personal growth.  A higher level of skill is required to create the more in-depth, research-driven projects of the curriculum.  Students will also begin to explore their own personal style and will continue to learn how to successfully evaluate artwork.  Students should expect a variety of other classroom activities besides studio projects.  Students can also expect to work closely with the instructor and fellow classmates on both independent and group projects.  Student may take this course up to two times for credit.  Students interested in continuing their art education should speak with the instructor about taking Advanced Placement Studio Art upon successful completion of this course.

 


Title:  ART 3D 3

Grade Level:  10, 11, 12        Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Art 3D 2.

Fee:  $20.00

Content:  It is the intention of Art 3D 3 to educate students on the role of sculpture in western society today through the study of architecture, fine art, commercial art, and other related studies.  Students will begin to work with sculptural media such as clay and metal in a more independent, self-guided manner.  Projects and tasks will be more open-ended, allowing for personal growth.  A higher level of skill is required to create the more in-depth, research-driven projects in the curriculum.  Students will also begin to explore their own personal style and will continue to learn how to successfully evaluate artwork.  Students should expect a variety of classroom activities besides studio projects.  Students can also expect to work closely with instructor and classmates on both independent and group projects.  Students may take this course up to two times for credit.  Students interested in continuing their art education should speak with the instructor about taking Advanced Placement studio art upon successful completion of this course.

 

Title:  COMPUTER GRAPHICS

Grade Level:  10, 11, 12        Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Fee:  $20.00

Content:  A hands-on computer graphics course which will offer interested students an opportunity to further develop their computer graphics skills and learn a more complicated art graphics program and investigate it's applications as it relates to the study and production of art.  Students will solve a variety of problems and create a variety of artwork using a computer graphics program.  

 

Title:  VISUAL COMMUNICATIONS (YEARBOOK) (1)

Grade Level:  10, 11, 12        Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Content:  Better known as the “yearbook class,” Visual Communications is a two-part semesterized course meant to expose the “non-art” student to the basic principles of good design.  The course will focus on a number of print media, including the Cavalcade yearbook, as well as other forms of printed materials like the business card, newsletter, photographic composition and package design.  Students will be taught using the latest layout design software.  Students successfully completing this course will be better prepared to communicate visually in and out of the school setting.

 

Title:  VISUAL COMMUNICATIONS (YEARBOOK) (2)

Grade Level:  10, 11, 12        Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Visual Communications (1).

Content: Building upon the first semester of Visual Communications, students will continue to use and explore current layout software to create a variety of publications.  While continuing to develop the RFHS yearbook, students will explore a variety of more complex printed materials such as concert posters, fliers, magazine advertisements, and some web design.  Through the study of these and other publications, students will explore more deeply into certain design elements and their effects on viewers.

 

Title:  ADVANCED COMPUTER GRAPHICS

Grade Level:  10, 11, 12        Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Art 2D 1 and Computer Graphics with a “C” or better.

Fee:  $20.00

Content:  Advanced Computer Graphics is a one-semester course open to art students who have successfully completed Computer Graphics with a grade of "C" or above.  Advanced Computer Graphics is a hands-on course in which students work with the computer as another art medium.  Students learn to combine their knowledge of Adobe Photoshop 5.5 learned in Computer Graphics with the study of the additional graphics programs of Adobe Photoshop CS, Adobe Illustrator CS, and Adobe InDesign CS.  Students learn to use all three programs together to create professional looking graphic arts projects. 

 

Title:  ADVANCED PLACEMENT STUDIO ART

Grade Level:  11, 12              Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Art 2D 1 and Art 3D 1, two additional semesters of art classes with a “B” average or above, Junior or Senior status, and consent of the AP Studio Art Instructor.  (Class may be repeated for a second year.)

Fee:  $20.00

Content:  The purpose of this class is to prepare students for the AP Studio Art Exam (portfolio) given by the College Board.  Students will spend the year developing ideas and executing work for inclusion in the portfolio, learning to take slides of their work, and writing two short essays to accompany the portfolio.  

 

 

 

BUSINESS EDUCATION DEPARTMENT

 

Title:  INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS

Grade Level:  9, 10, 11, 12*              Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Content:  This course is open to any student who is interested in a beginning level computer course. It is an introduction to the basics of Microsoft Office. Software applications include Word, Excel, Power Point, and Publisher. Instruction will include learning to manipulate menus, commands, and shortcuts to create basic business documents such as reports, letters, tables, flyers, newsletters, spreadsheets, slide show presentations, and desktop published documents. Students will use some draw tools and clipart to enhance documents. Short projects will be incorporated that may include Internet research. Students will also be introduced to basic computer terminology, a brief overview of how computer hardware works, and a review of keyboarding skills to improve speed and accuracy.

 

This class articulates with Sauk Valley College OAS 103. This means that if you complete Introduction to Computers with  an “A” or “B,” you may bypass OAS 103 and move directly into a more advanced course at Sauk.

 

*Needs instructor’s permission.

 

Title: BUSINESS WEB DESIGN

Grade Level: 10-12                           Credit:1/2          Length of Course: One semester

Prerequisite:  sophomore, junior, or senior standing - keyboarding skills helpful

Content: This course is designed to teach students about the fundamentals of Web Sites and Web Page Design. The purpose of this course is for students to develop the skills and understanding necessary to plan and create Web sites, especially for use in the business world as they apply to business operations. Concepts addressed will include the 1) Web Environment: accessing sites, types of sites, and web tools;  2) Design Principles: accuracy, writing text, color, and technical/legal/ethical issues; 3) Successful Website Development: goals, audience, content, structure, navigation, typography, images, file formats; hyperlinks; 4) Multimedia elements: animation, audio, video, interactive; 5) Promoting and Maintaining: testing, publishing and promoting. Students will also learn fundamental HTML coding and authoring skills. A variety of software (already in place) will be used as a means to create the web pages. Students will work in a hands-on environment completing project-based exercises applicable to the business world.

 

Title:  COMPUTER CONCEPTS (1)

Grade Level:  10, 11, 12                    Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Intro to Computers or permission of Instructor.

Content:  NEW! Software Update – Microsoft Office 2007

This project-based course, provides students with practical and interactive experience mastering fundamental computer skills essential for any career in the business world or just for improving computer knowledge and skills. Learn advanced manipulations in Microsoft Word and Excel to create useful and dynamic documents for school or work. Learn to create, format, and enhance with a creative mind! Design many different kinds of word processing documents with enhanced features including color and clipart. Create numerical spreadsheets for calculating and enhance the appearance of the spreadsheet to your desire.  This course is designed for students who are planning a career in any area of business, enrolling in college, or wishing to learn more about computer software applications. These computer skills will help you attain high performance in school and work. 

 


Title:  COMPUTER CONCEPTS (2)

Grade Level:  10, 11, 12                    Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  Student must be proficient in keyboarding skills.

Content:  NEW! Software Update – Microsoft Office 2007

This project-based course, provides students with practical and interactive experience mastering fundamental computer skills essential for any career in the business world or just for improving computer knowledge and skills. Learn advanced manipulations in Microsoft Power Point and Database Management to create useful and dynamic documents for school or work. Learn to create, format, and enhance with a creative mind! Design many different slide show presentations with text, color, clipart, animation and sound. Learn to create filing systems for entering records and keeping track of information. Projects with database management might include designing recipe files, client files, or an inventory system for your most valuable possessions. This course is designed for students who are planning a career in any area of business, enrolling in college, or wishing to learn more about computer software applications. These computer skills will help you attain high performance in school and work.

 

These classes articulate with CIS 109 at Sauk Valley College. This means that if you complete both Computer Concepts (1) and (2) with an “A” or “B,” you may bypass CIS 109 and move directly into a more advanced course at Sauk.

 

Title:  ACCOUNTING 1

Grade Level:  11, 12                          Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  Junior or Senior status, preferably with an “A” – “B” average.

Content:  This course is for the student who wishes to learn the accounting/bookkeeping operations of a business, who is considering a career in business.  College-bound business students as well as vocational students will find the course very useful. Accounting is the “language of business” and emphasis is placed on students’ understanding of terminology and the steps in the accounting cycle which include journalizing, posting, cash control, preparing financial statements, adjusting and closing accounts to complete a business’s financial cycle. Students will learn about the flow of dollars coming in and going out of a business and the record keeping system that must be in place. These principles are taught through manual (written)  and computer methods. Students will learn the accounting cycle, how to interpret and analyze journals, ledgers, financial forms, payroll accounting and an overall understanding of how businesses operate. Workbooks and simulation practice sets are used to give students a “hands-on” opportunity to apply what they have learned. Since ALL business college majors are required to take college accounting, high school accounting can better prepare students to be successful in their major toward a business career. Students completing this course with an “A” or a “B” may articulate with Course ACC 100 Basic Accounting at Sauk Valley Community College.

 


 

Title:  BUSINESS LAW

Grade Level:  11, 12                          Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  Junior or Senior status with an overall “C” average.

Content:  This course provides students with an excellent foundation in understanding the basics in business law.  Students will study the sources of law, where laws come from, the difference between civil and criminal laws, and learn about the law as it applies to them as consumers.  They will also learn to understand their legal rights and responsibilities as well as what it takes to form a legally binding contract. There may also be speakers who bring real-life scenarios to the classroom or field trips to visit a court of law. 

 

With this foundation, students are ready to consider the contract, which is the heart of both business law and personal law.

 

Title:  MARKETING

Grade Level:  11, 12                          Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  Junior or Senior status.

Content:  This is a good elective for students who are interested in a career in business.

Marketing introduces students to the fundamentals of developing and marketing a business through entrepreneurship. They will examine all the major steps involved in starting a new business, including the marketing, financing, managing, and legal aspects. Students will be provided with knowledge needed to realistically evaluate their potential as a business owner. Throughout the course students will complete the project of  "building a business plan" and learn what it takes to get an entrepreneurial venture off to a good start. Concepts covered will include entrepreneurship, market economies, business plans, market research and target markets, the marketing mix (4 P's of marketing - product, price, place, and promotion), types of business ownership, business locations, planning finances, managing operations and employees, and business risks. Real-life examples will be used. This course may also include lessons from local entrepreneurs in our community.

 

 

 

DRIVER EDUCATION DEPARTMENT

 

Title:  DRIVER EDUCATION

Grade Level:  10 (some grade 9)        Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  State law requires students to pass 8 academic classes the previous 2 semesters to be eligible to enroll in Driver Education.  At least 4 of these must be high school level courses.

Fee:  $50.00 + $20.00 to the Secretary of State

Content:  The classroom phase of Driver Education is required of all students for graduation from a high school in Illinois.  No student will be enrolled in Driver Education under 15-1/2 years of age.  A student will be enrolled in the classroom phase of Driver Education during the first semester if his/her 16th birthday falls between October 1 and March 31, or during the second semester if the birthday falls on or after April 1, and before September 30.  The classroom phase of Driver Education must be successfully completed before you can enroll in Behind the Wheel.   At the start of each semester the instructor will calculate the maximum number of days a student can miss and still meet the 30-hour requirement.  If a student exceeds the calculated number of days he/she will be dropped from this course.

 

Should the class size become excessively large, students with the latest birthdates, which fall prior to August 1, shall be denied enrollment until summer or the fall semester.  Enrollment shall be offered in chronological order with the earliest birthdates first.

 

Selection of students for the Behind the Wheel phase of Driver Education will be determined by the age of the student.  The oldest students will have first choice.  Enrollment in the Behind-the-Wheel phase of Driver Education is optional; however, a driver’s license may not be issued to any person before age 18 years unless they have successfully completed both the classroom and Behind-the-Wheel phase of the Driver Education program. 

 

The ultimate objective of Driver Education is to provide educational experiences, which will provide the student with the skill, knowledge and proper attitude necessary for the efficient and safe operation of a motor vehicle.  In recognition of the importance of proper attitudes toward driving, any student who is in violation of any driving regulation while enrolled in Driver Education will be reported to the proper authorities, immediately dropped from the class, and required to repeat the phase of the class during the following school year.

                                                                                                           

The cost of the learner’s permit is $20.00, which is paid to the Secretary of State’s office.  An additional $50.00 fee is required for the Behind-the Wheel phase and shall be paid prior to enrollment.  State law prohibits charging the $50.00 fee to students who qualify for free lunch.

 

 

 

ENGLISH DEPARTMENT

 

Title:  ENGLISH 1-A

Grade Level:  9                                  Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  Selection by previous English teacher and/or by invitation only.

Content:  This course is a two-semester, writing-intensive program for outstanding freshman students.  Students are selected on the basis of criteria established by the English Department chairman, based upon teacher recommendations and past school performance.  Students receive more concentrated instruction and a higher level of material than students in a regular English I program.  Literature, vocabulary, English usage, and writing are stressed with a research paper written second semester and approximately twelve book reviews.

 

The following two one-semester courses are required for all freshmen that are not selected for English I-A or Fundamental English.  Each course is graded separately; each carries one-half credit.  A student who fails one of the semesters will repeat only that semester to receive credit:

 

Title:  ENGLISH 1-L

Grade Level:  9                                  Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Content:  English I-L is a writing-intensive course in poetry, drama, English usage, composition, and vocabulary development.  Students will read and discuss plays and poetry in many forms.  There will be two required book reviews each quarter (four for the semester).

 

Title:  ENGLISH 1-G

Grade Level:  9                                  Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Content:  English I-G is a writing-intensive course in short fiction, non-fiction, a novel, English usage, composition, and vocabulary development.  There will be instruction in library skills, and there will be two required book reviews each quarter (four for the semester).  

 

Title:  FUNDAMENTAL ENGLISH 1

Grade Level:  9                                  Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  Selection by previous English teacher.

Content:  This is a full-year, writing-intensive course stressing the basic fundamentals of English usage:  punctuation, use of complete sentences, and paragraph development.  There will also be instruction in reading, with the aim of raising the student's reading levels to a level appropriate to high school work.  Literature will be geared to the reading levels of the students.

 

Title:  ENGLISH 2-L

Grade Level:  10                                Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of English 1.

Content:  English 2-L is a writing-intensive course that stresses reading, writing, vocabulary development, and problems of English usage.  Students will read and study short stories, poetry, and drama.  There will also be at least six required essays and four book reports for the semester.

 


Title:  ENGLISH 2-G

Grade Level:  10                                Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of English 1.

Content:  English 2-G is a writing-intensive course that stresses reading, writing, spelling, vocabulary development, and problems of English usage.  Students will read short stories and a novel.  Students will also write at least three required essays, two book reports for the semester, and a research paper.

 

Title:  FUNDAMENTAL ENGLISH 2-G & L

Grade Level:  10                                Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  By invitation only.

Content:  Fundamental English 2 is a full-year, writing-intensive course for selected sophomores who are experiencing difficulties mastering the fundamentals of English.  The course will include instruction in reading and English usage geared to the abilities of the students.  In addition, students will develop everyday English skills in areas such as newspapers, maps, and directories.  Students will also write essays and do book reports throughout each semester.  The goal of the class is to prepare students for successful completion of the required junior English courses.

 

Title:  WORLD STUDIES-ENGLISH

Grade Level:  10                                Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of English 1-A or teacher recommendation.  Enrolling in this class requires enrolling in World Studies-History at the same time.

Content:  This is a full-year, one-credit, writing-intensive class for sophomore students who wish to be academically challenged.  The course blends World Literature with World History, giving students insight into relationships between the two areas.  Assignments involve reading, writing, and speaking, and some assignments will offer students opportunities to use their artistic talents, if they so choose.  The class is taught in conjunction with World Studies – History and takes the place of English 2.

 

JUNIOR ENGLISH

 

In the junior year, the student must choose from one of the following combinations:  (1) American Studies–English, (2) College-Prep American Literature and Speech Communications, or (3) American Literature and Speech Communications.  Juniors who wish to take additional English courses as electives may take the courses listed as Junior/Senior electives.  (A student cannot receive credit for more than one of the following:  American Studies–English, College-Prep American Literature, and American Literature.) 

 


Title:  COLLEGE-PREP AMERICAN LITERATURE (Previously College-Prep Literature 2)

Grade Level:  11                                Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of English 2.

Content:  In this course students study the major American writers; it includes a college-preparatory vocabulary program.  The purpose of this course is to give students the kind of reading background expected of a college freshman.  Essays will be included.

 

Title:  AMERICAN LITERATURE

Grade Level:  11                                Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of English 2.

Content:  This is a course in American Literature stressing best-known and most popular writers.  The aim will be to expose students to the best traditions of American literature, to enhance their vocabularies, and to prepare essays based on the readings.

 

Title:  AMERICAN STUDIES-ENGLISH

Grade Level:  11                                Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of World Studies-English or teacher recommendation.  Enrolling in this class requires enrolling in American Studies-History at the same time.

Content:  American Studies-English is a full-year, writing-intensive course for students who wish to be challenged academically.  Students will have ample opportunities to collectively and individually explore the underlying aspects of our American experience.

 

Students will be selected for this course on the basis of their past performance in advanced classes, their achievement test scores, and teacher recommendation.

 

Title:  SPEECH

Grade Level:  11                                Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of English 1 and English 2.

Content:  Students will receive instruction and practice in organizing, preparing and presenting informal speeches; and listening to and participating in the criticism of both formal and informal speeches.  Students will also receive continued instruction and practice in essay writing.

 

Senior English

 

The senior requirement is one-half credit.  College-prep students are urged to take Advanced Composition/Grammar and one additional elective to fulfill the requirement.  Most four-year colleges require four years of high school English.  In addition, the English department urges the college-prep students to take Shakespeare.  Students who have completed American Studies-English are urged to take British Literature during their senior year.  General students may select a one-semester junior/senior elective to fulfill the senior requirement.  These students may also wish to take an additional elective, but only one is required.

 

Junior/Senior Electives:

 

Title:  BRITISH LITERATURE (Previously College-Prep Literature 1)

Grade Level:  11, 12                          Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of English 2.

Content:  In this course students study the major English writers and complete a college-preparatory vocabulary program.  The purpose of this course is to give students the kind of reading background expected of a college freshman.  Major readings may include Beowulf, The Canterbury Tales, Hamlet, and various poems and other writings from the Anglo-Saxons through the Modern World.  Essays and book reports will be included.

 

Title:  ADVANCED COMPOSITION (SAUK ENGLISH 101)

Grade Level:  11, 12                          Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of English 2.

Content:  A basic course in essay writing with emphasis on exposition, this one-semester course stresses knowledge and application of the rhetorical modes.  English 101 presupposes competence in grammar, usage, and mechanics.  This course focuses on the writing process (pre-writing, writing, editing, and revising) and the essay (purpose, modes of support, organization, style, and Standard American English).  Students must be accepted to Sauk Valley Community College to take this course.

 

Title:  MASS MEDIA

Grade Level:  11, 12                          Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of English 2.

Content:  In this course students will study the influences of the various mass media on our daily lives.  These media include TV, radio, mass-circulation magazines, mass advertising, and others.  The emphasis in this course will be on studying the media, rather than learning to work within them.  Students will create various projects and make several oral presentations.  A field trip to local media may be included.  This class may not be accepted as a college-prep English credit by some universities.

 

Title:  ADVANCED SPEECH (SAUK SPEECH 131)

Grade Level:  11, 12                          Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of English 2 and Speech Communications.

Content:  Advanced Speech is a one-semester course for juniors and seniors who have successfully completed English II and Communications II.  This course provides instruction in the group communication process, as well as further instruction in the finer points of public speaking.


Title:  CREATIVE WRITING

Grade Level:  11, 12                          Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of English 2.

Content:  This course is offered to students who are interested in learning the various forms of self-expression.  The forms of poetry, short stories, journals, and descriptive prose will be explored.  Reviews and comments will be offered by peers, as well as by the teacher.

 

Title:  SUPERNATURAL

Grade Level:  11, 12                          Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of English 2.

Content:  This course will focus on the supernatural literature that deals with those forces above and beyond the visible and observable universe.  The course includes classic works like Dracula and Frankenstein, as well as a modern supernatural novel.  Students will study vocabulary and complete a major project as well. 

 

Title:  MYSTERY

Grade Level:  11, 12                          Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of English 2.

Content:  Class reading and discussion will center on the mystery and detective story, early and modern, with major emphasis on the modern mystery.  Various types of mystery novels will be read.  This course will appeal to students who wish to read fully in one of the most popular types of modern writing.  Students will also study vocabulary and complete a major project.  

 

Title:  CONTEMPORARY LITERATURE

Grade Level:  11, 12                          Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of English 2.

Content:  This course will expose students to various types of modern literature, 1950 to the present including novels, short stories, and poetry.  Course selections may include The Catcher in the Rye, The Contender, The House on Mango Street, and Z for Zachariah, as well as other multicultural authors and poets.  Students will complete several class projects and in-class essays. 

 

Title:  SHAKESPEARE

Grade Level:  11, 12                          Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of English 2.

Content:  Shakespeare is a one-semester class for students who have successfully completed English II.  The class will study examples of the types of plays Shakespeare wrote, including the tragedies, histories, and comedies.  When possible, the class will view and discuss filmed and videotaped performances of the plays.  A variety of written and oral projects are a major part of the curriculum, with a field trip to a professional Shakespearean show.

 


FAMILY & CONSUMER SCIENCES DEPARTMENT

 

Title:  ORIENTATION TO HOME ECONOMICS-FOODS

Grade Level:  9, 10, 11, 12                Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  Open to all levels of students.

Fee:  $20.00

Content:  This class will cover units in basic food preparation and cooking principles.  Students will learn measuring techniques, cooking terms, tools, and sanitation and safety rules.  They will then apply these principles to prepare milk and egg dishes, quick breads, desserts, casseroles, cookies, sandwiches, and complete a breakfast meal.

 

Title:  FOODS & NUTRITION I

Grade Level:  9, 10, 11, 12                Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  Passing Orientation to Home Economics-Foods course or permission of the department head.

Fee:  $20.00

Content:  This class will examine the three courses of a meal.  Students will prepare appetizers, soups and salads for the first course.  They will prepare meat dishes, side dishes, and bread for the second course.  They will also prepare desserts for the third course.  At the end of the semester students will apply knowledge learned to prepare a three-course meal.

 

Title:  FOODS & NUTRITION 2

Grade Level:  12                    Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  For Senior students only who have passed Orientation to Home Economics-Foods and Foods & Nutrition 1.

Fee:  $10.00

Content:  This class will examine national and international foods.  Students will learn the history, geography, natural resources, and customs of various regions of the United States and other countries throughout the world.  They will use this information to complete projects and to make meals that represent each region and country.

 

Title:  INTERIOR DECORATION

Grade Level:  10, 11, 12                    Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  For Sophomore, Junior and Senior students only.

Content:  This class examines the types of housing, drawing and using floor plans, furniture arrangement for an apartment, and interior decoration principles as used to design a home.  Students will draw a floor plan for a house and use principles learned during the semester to arrange furniture and decide interior decoration for each room within that home.  This class is very hands-on and project-based.

 


Title:  CHILDHOOD STUDIES

Grade Level:  10, 11, 12                    Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  For Sophomore, Junior and Senior students only. 

Content:  Students will explore the role and responsibilities of parenthood and examine the birth process from pregnancy through delivery.  Students will learn the basic physical, social, emotional and intellectual development from birth to age six.  Students will also observe and plan activities for preschool children who will visit during the semester.  Students will participate in a 48-hour simulation with Baby Think it Over.  This course is a prerequisite for Child & Day Care at WACC.

 

 

 

FOREIGN LANGUAGE DEPARTMENT

 

Title:  FRENCH 1

Grade Level:  9, 10, 11                      Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  None – not open to Seniors.

Content:  At the end of the first year of French, the student should be able to understand and converse in French on limited topics of daily conversation.  Students should be able to write everything he/she has learned to speak.  There will be included in the first year an introduction to French culture, i.e., to people, places, and things that a person from France would be able to identify and consider as important.  A certain amount of emphasis will be placed on grammar in order that the student has a comprehension of sentence construction in French.

 

Title:  FRENCH 2

Grade Level:  10, 11, 12                    Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  At least a “C” average in French 1.

Content:  At the end of the second year of French, the student should be able to understand and converse in French on limited topics of daily conversation.  The student should be able to read and understand articles written in French that make use of vocabulary he knows.  He should be able to write everything he has learned to speak.  There will be a continuation of the study of French culture, i.e., people, places, and things that a person from France would be able to identify and consider important.  Grammar will be stressed in order that the student has a comprehension of sentence construction.

 

Title:  FRENCH 3

Grade Level:  11, 12                          Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  At least a “C” average in French 2.

Content:  At the end of three years of French, the student should be able to understand and converse in French on topics of daily conversation.  The student should be able to read, understand, and discuss informally ideas of articles in French, making use of the vocabulary that he knows.  There will be a continuation of the study of French culture, i.e., people, places, and things that a person from France would be able to identify and consider important.  An emphasis will be placed on grammar so the student has an understanding of sentence construction in French.

 

Title:  FRENCH 4

Grade Level:  12                                Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  At least a “C” average in French 3.

Content:  At the end of the fourth year of French, the student should be able to read, understand, and discuss informally ideas of articles in French that make use of the vocabulary that he knows.  There will be a continuation of the study of French culture, i.e., people, places, and things that a person from France would be able to identify and consider important.  An emphasis will be placed on grammar so the student has a comprehension of sentence construction.

 

Title:  SPANISH 1

Grade Level:  9, 10, 11                      Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  None – not open to Seniors.

Content:  Spanish 1 is an exploratory language-learning experience.  Its objective is the progressive development of skill in listening, speaking, reading and writing the language.  Inter-cultural differences and similarities are treated informally.

 

Title:  SPANISH 2

Grade Level:  10, 11, 12                    Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  At least a “C” average in Spanish 1.

Content:  Spanish 2 is a continuation of the objective of Spanish 1 with emphasis on increased facility in the use of the spoken and written language.

 

Title:  SPANISH 3

Grade Level:  11, 12                          Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  At least a “C” average in Spanish 2.

Content:  Spanish 3 is a continuation of the objective of progressive development of skills in understanding, speaking, reading and writing.  Greater emphasis is placed on reading and writing than in Spanish 1 and 2.

 

Title:  SPANISH 4

Grade Level:  12                                Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  At least a “C” average in Spanish 3.

Content:  Spanish 4 is a continuation of the objective of progressive development of skill in understanding, speaking, reading, and writing.  A great deal of time is spent reviewing and reinforcing previously learned skills.

 


Title:  INDEPENDENT STUDY IN FRENCH OR SPANISH

Grade Level:  9, 10, 11, 12                Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  At least a “C” average in previous course and consent of instructor.

Content:  Students may not elect Independent Study in French or Spanish without consent of the instructor.  They must sign up for the regular sections of Spanish or French.  Only those students who have signed up for the regular sections and who have irreconcilable course scheduling conflicts will be given the instructor's consent to study independently for credit.

 

 

 

INDUSTRIAL EDUCATION DEPARTMENT

 

Title:  INTRODUCTION TO DRAFTING

Grade Level:  9, 10                            Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  Students need to have completed or be enrolled in Algebra 1.  Maximum of 20 students per class.

Fee:  $20.00

Content:  Introduction to Drafting is a semester class that provides a basic introduction to mechanical drafting.  Course content will include the proper use and care of drafting equipment, using a measuring scale, geometric construction, basic math, isometric drawings, oblique drawings, perspective drawings, and orthographic drawings.  The exercises in this class will be utilized in all other classes offered in the Industrial Arts Department. 

 

Title:  INTRODUCTION TO WOOD PRODUCTION

Grade Level:  9, 10                            Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  Basic math skills.  Maximum of 20 students per class.

Fee:  $20.00

Content:  Introduction to Wood Production is a semester class designed to give the students the basic skills and knowledge needed to use hand tools, power equipment, woodworking machines, and materials associated with woodworking in a safe manner.  Students will be required to construct at least four projects using the different tools and machines in the lab area. 

 

Title:  INTRODUCTION TO MACHINING AND METALS

Grade Level:  9, 10                            Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  Basic math skills. Maximum of 20 students per class.

Fee:  $20.00

Content:  Introduction to Machining and Metals is a semester class that provides an introduction to metalworking for the home and industry.  Skills will be developed in the area of machining, sheet-metal work, and foundry.  Students will get hands-on experience with layout work, precision measurement, precision machining on lathes and mills, casting hot metal in the foundry and various sheet-metal working operations.  Skills learned in this class will be utilized in many other classes offered in the Industrial Arts Department. 

 

Title:  FUNDAMENTALS OF CONSTRUCTION

Grade Level:  10, 11, 12                    Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  Sophomore status and successful completion of Introduction to Wood Production.  Maximum of 15 students per class.

Content:  Fundamentals of Construction is a semester course designed to provide learning experiences related to the erection, installation, maintenance and repair of buildings and related structures.  Planned learning activities will allow students to become knowledgeable of fundamental principles and methods to develop technical skills related to masonry, carpentry, electrical wiring, plumbing, heating, ventilation, air conditioning and finished work.  Instruction will include safety principles and practices, recognition of standard tools and materials, building concepts and procedures, local, state, and national codes, cost estimating and blueprint reading.

 

Title:  METALS 1

Grade Level:  10, 11, 12                    Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  Sophomore, Junior or Senior status and successful completion of Introduction to Machining and Metals, or approval of instructor and/or department head.  Maximum of 20 students per class.

Fee:  $20.00

Content:  This course offers the student an opportunity to further develop skills in machining, sheet-metal work, and foundry work.  Machining will include work on the lathe, milling machine, shaper, surface grinder, drill press and band saw.  Students will get hands on experience with cutting threads on lathe, using a taper attachment, indexing head, circular milling attachment, and dial indicator.  Casting made in the foundry may be used in the machining area.  Safety, blueprint reading and precision measurement are also presented.  A $20.00 shop card will be required to cover the cost of materials for the course.  Students will be required to provide a pair of safety glasses for their own protection, and a notebook will be examined and graded as a course requirement.

 

Title:  WOODWORKING 1 (WOODS 1)

Grade Level:  10, 11, 12                    Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  Sophomore, Junior or Senior status and successful completion of Introduction to Wood Production, or approval of instructor and/or department head.  Maximum of 20 students per class.

Fee:  $20.00

Content:  This course is intended as an introduction to machine woodworking.  It is designed to develop an understanding of the various machines and their use and to develop the applied skills necessary for safe and effective use of power tools.  An understanding of and appreciation for good design and construction is also intended.  Projects will be made with the student providing or purchasing from the school the materials needed.  A $20.00 shop card will be required at the beginning of the course.  Additional materials will be paid for by the student as the year progresses.  Students will also be required to provide safety glasses for their own protection while working in the shop area. 

 

Title:  WOODWORKING 2 (WOODS 2)

Grade Level:  11, 12                          Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  Junior or Senior status and successful completion of Woods 1, or approval of instructor and/or department head.  Maximum of 20 students per class.

Fee:  $20.00

Content:  This class is designed for the advanced woodworking student.  Much emphasis will be placed on further enrichment of the applied skills and safety learned in Woods 1. The major topic of this course will deal with advanced cabinetry, and to create an understanding of and an appreciation for good design and the different types of construction. A $20.00 shop card will be required at the beginning of the course.  Additional materials will be paid for by the student as the year progresses.  Students will be required to construct at least two projects using different tools and machines in lab area.

 

Title:  WOODWORKING 3 (WOODS 3)

Grade Level:  12                                Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  Senior status and successful completion of Woods 2, or approval of instructor and/or department head.  Maximum of 20 students per class.

Fee:  Students are responsible for all financial obligations for projects constructed.

Content:  This is a course in Advanced Machine Woodworking for those students who have done well in Woods 2, and wish to increase their skills and further their knowledge at Woodworking, particularly along the lines of furniture construction.  This course is designed for more advanced independent study. Students are required to construct projects with a higher degree of accuracy and difficulty, and emphasis on advanced design to challenge their skills.

 

Title:  INTRODUCTION TO POWER MECHANICS

Grade Level:  10, 11, 12                    Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  Sophomore, Junior or Senior status and successful completion of Introduction to Machining and Metals (recommended), or approval of instructor and/or department head.  Maximum of 15 students per class.

Fee:  $20.00

Content:  Power Mechanics deal with the basic fundamentals of two- and four-cycle small gas engines.  Hands on experience in the shop will emphasis carburetion, ignition, and over-haul.  Also, various other experiments on horsepower, valve timing, and shop manuals.  Each student will be required to supply a small engine and safety glasses.  The student is required to purchase a $20.00 shop card to cover costs of materials for the course.  A notebook will be examined and graded as part of the course requirement. 

 


Title:  WELDING 1

Grade Level:  10, 11, 12                    Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  Sophomore, Junior or Senior status and successful completion of Introduction to Machining and Metals, or approval of instructor and/or department head.  Maximum of 20 students per class.

Fee:  $20.00

Content:  The Welding course is designed to teach the student about welding and how to perform basic joining operations.  The 18-week course is designed to develop safety in the basic skills of oxy-acetylene welding and cutting, electric arc welding, and inert gas welding.  The student is required to purchase a $20.00 shop card to cover the cost of the materials and equipment for the course.  Also, protective glasses, clothing and gloves will need to be supplied by the student.  Maximum enrollment - 20 students per class.  This class is a prerequisite for Welding and Fabrication at WACC.

 

Title:  WELDING 2

Grade Level:  10, 11, 12                    Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  Sophomore, Junior or Senior status and successful completion of

Welding 1.  Maximum of 20 students per class.

Fee:  $20.00

Content:  This course provides the student with the understanding and experiences related to welding safety, gas metal arc welding (Mig), shielded metal arc welding (Stick), gas tungsten arc welding (Tig), oxyacetylene welding/cutting, and plasma cutting.  Planned learning activities will allow the student to become knowledgeable of welding fundamentals and provide training to develop the manual skills necessary to make high quality welds in all positions using the previous welding methods mentioned.  A $20.00 shop card, safety glasses, protective clothing, and gloves will also be required.

 

 

 

MATHEMATICS DEPARTMENT

 

Title:  ALGEBRA 1 (or may take Algebra 1-A & 1-B)

Grade Level:  9, 10, 11, 12                Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  Recommendation of previous instructor or placement test score.

Content:  This course provides students with a solid Algebra 1 course covering all the topics required to meet testing and curriculum guidelines.  The text reinforces material from previous math courses, and prepares students for future math study.  It provides a wealth of exercises and a spiraling approach to give students multiple ways to practice the same skill.  Numerous examples incorporate reasoning and problem solving – allowing students to see how skills apply to situations in their everyday lives.

 

Chapter topics include:  *Tools of Algebra, *Functions and Their Graphs, *Algebraic Concepts and Simple Equations, *Equations and Inequalities, *Graphing and Writing Linear Equations, *Systems of Equations and Inequalities, *Quadratic Equations and Functions, *Exponents and Exponential Functions, *Right Triangles and Radical Expressions, *Polynomials, *Rational Expressions and Functions.

 

Title:  ALGEBRA 1A & 1B (or may take Algebra 1)

Grade Level:  9, 10, 11, 12                Credit:  2        Length of Course:  Two years

Prerequisite:  Recommendation of previous instructor or placement test score.

Content:  This course provides students with a solid Algebra 1 course covering all the topics required to meet testing and curriculum guidelines.  The text reinforces material from previous math courses, and prepares students for future math study.  It provides a wealth of exercises and a spiraling approach to give students multiple ways to practice the same skill.  Numerous examples incorporate reasoning and problem solving – allowing students to see how skills apply to situations in their everyday lives.

 

Chapter topics include:  *Tools of Algebra, *Functions and Their Graphs, *Algebraic Concepts and Simple Equations, *Equations and Inequalities, *Graphing and Writing Linear Equations, *Systems of Equations and Inequalities, *Quadratic Equations and Functions, *Exponents and Exponential Functions, *Right Triangles and Radical Expressions, *Polynomials, *Rational Expressions and Functions.

 

Title:  GEOMETRY

Grade Level:  9, 10, 11, 12                Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  Recommendation of previous instructor, or successful completion of Algebra 1 or Algebra 1-A & 1-B, with a “C” or above each semester, or placement test score.

Content:  This course provides students with a complete formal geometry course – covering all the topics required to meet testing and curriculum guidelines.  The text builds and connects synthetic coordinate and transformational approaches.  Algebra skills are reviewed at point-of-use, ensuring students maintain these skills.  Algebra integration within coordinate geometry topics, plus probability and statistics connections, are found throughout.

 

Chapter topics include, *Tools for Geometry, *Investigating Geometric Figures, *Transformations: Shapes in Motion, *Triangle Relationships, *Measuring in the Plane, *Measuring in Space, *Reasoning and Parallel Lines, *Proving Triangles Congruent, *Quadrilaterals, *Right Triangle Trigonometry, *Chords, Secants, and Tangents.

 

Title:  ADVANCED ALGEBRA

Grade Level:  10, 11, 12                    Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Geometry, with a “C” or above each semester.

Content:  This course provides a strong Algebra 2 course and readies students for advanced math and pre-calculus courses.  The text covers key topics in trigonometry and maintains Algebra 1 skills as new key concepts are presented.  Building on the function theme established in the Algebra 1 text, Advanced Algebra organizes content around functions and models real-world situations using functions.  Probability and data analysis topics are also introduced.  Throughout the course, graphing calculators are used to empower students to connect symbolic representations with concrete examples.

 

Chapter topics include:  *Models, Functions and Permutations, *Linear Relationships and Functions, *Matrices, *Linear Systems, *Quadratic Equations and Functions, *Polynomials and Polynomial Functions, *Exponential and Logarithmic Functions, *Rational Functions, *Periodic Functions and Trigonometry, *Quadratic Relations, *Probability and Statistics, *Sequences and Series.

 

Title:  PRE-CALCULUS

Grade Level:  11, 12                          Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Advanced Algebra, with a “C” or above each semester.

Content:  This course, intended for a graphing calculator required pre-calculus course, shows students when and how to use concepts, and promotes real understanding not just rote memorization.  In addition, the graphing calculator is used as a tool to help explain ideas rather than merely to find answers.  The textbook makes use of real world data in presenting a balanced algebraic and graphical approach to understanding pre-calculus concepts.  The result is a thorough preparation for a calculus course. 

 

Chapter topics include: *Functions and Graphs, *Polynomial, Power and Rational Functions, * Exponential, Logistic and Logarithmic Functions, *Trigonometric Functions, *Analytic Trigonometry, *Vectors, Parametric Equations, and Polar Equations, *Systems and Matrices, *Analytic Geometry in Two and Three Dimensions, *Discrete Mathematics, *An Introduction to Calculus: Limits, Derivatives, and Integrals.

 

Title:  CALCULUS (SAUK MATH 203 & 204)

Grade Level:  12                    Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Pre-Calculus and recommendation of previous instructor.

Content:  This course serves as a comprehensive teaching and learning resource to introduce calculus to a wider variety of high school students.  It also embraces the best aspects of reform by integrating the latest technological tools and by emphasizing real-life data, practical applications, and mathematical models.

 

Chapter topics include: *Preparation for Calculus, *Limits and Their Properties, *Differentiation, *Applications of Differentiation, *Integration, *Logarithmic, Exponential, and Other Transcendental Functions, *Applications of Integration, *Integration Techniques, L'Hopital's Rule, and Improper Integrals, *Infinite Series, Conics, Parametric Equations, and Polar Coordinates.

 

 

 

MUSIC DEPARTMENT

 

Title:  BAND

Grade Level:  9, 10, 11, 12                Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Fee:  $50.00

Content:  Membership in the Rock Falls High School Band is available to any student who possesses a genuine desire to excel in music.  All students who have had prior instrumental training are invited and encouraged to join the band.  Any student who has no prior band experience but is interested in learning an instrument should meet with the director prior to signing up.

 

All students enrolled in band participate in Concert Band, Marching Band and Pep Band.  Opportunities are also provided to students who wish to participate in IMEA, Solo & Ensemble Festival, NCIC Music Festival, and traveling music tours.  Emphasis is placed on learning and improving music fundamentals:  Tone, counting, reading music, listening skills, and music theory and history.  The Rock Falls High School Band program strives to develop each student’s overall musical ability within the context of the band setting, and help each individual achieve personal success and progress.

 

Attendance at all performances and rehearsals outside the school day are mandatory and fall within the parameters of grade evaluation.  During first quarter, the band rehearses on Wednesday evenings and performs at all home football games.  Additional performances may include concerts, basketball games, festivals, and community service performances.  A schedule is given on the first day of classes, and every effort is made to inform parents and students of any changes or additions as far in advance as possible.

 

Title:  CHOIR

Grade Level:  9, 10, 11, 12                Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Content:  Membership in the Rock Falls High School Choir is open to any student who possesses a genuine desire to excel in music.  All students who want to participate in a musical ensemble are encouraged to join choir.

 

Emphasis is placed on learning and improving music fundamentals:  Tone, proper vocal technique, diction, reading music, counting, listening, and music theory and history.  All different types of literature are rehearsed and performed.

 

Attendance at all performances and events scheduled outside the school day are mandatory and fall within the parameters of grade evaluation.  In general, the choir performs at two concerts per year.  Students who desire to further their musical skills are offered additional performance opportunities, such as IMEA, NCIC, and Solo & Ensemble Festival.

 

 

 


PHYSICAL EDUCATION DEPARTMENT

 

Title:  PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Grade Level:  9, 10, 11, 12                Credit:  3        Length of Course:  Three years

Prerequisite:  P.E. must be taken for one semester per year during the Freshman and Sophomore years (total 2 semesters) and two semesters per year during the Junior and Senior years (total 4 semesters), for a total of 6 semesters.

Content:  Physical Education is designed to help develop the students physically, mentally, and contribute to the student’s emotional and social well being through participation.  Some activities offered are basketball, badminton, mush ball, archery, golf, recreational games, volleyball, jogging, running, flag-football, speed-a-way, soccer, conditioning, fitness tests, bowling, and track and field, to mention a few. The adopted uniform for boys and girls are gray shirts/sweatshirts and black shorts/sweatpants.

 

Students may be excused from Physical Education for the following reasons only:

1.         Under the direction of a physician or school nurse in the case of short-term duration or an emergency.  NOTE:  A student must be in P.E. class at least 12 full weeks to receive credit.

2.         An 11th or 12th grade student and a member in good standing of an athletic team, cheerleader, or dance team, or a member of the marching band participating in drum-line or flags.

3.         An 11th or 12th grade student who, in order to be granted admission to an institution of higher learning, must complete a specific academic course not included in existing minimum graduation requirements, and his/her current schedule of classes will not permit enrollment in this class.

4.         An 11th or 12th grade student who lacks sufficient course credits in one or more specific courses in order to meet state and local graduation requirements. 

 

Title:  HEALTH

Grade Level:  9, 10                            Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  Students are required to enroll in one semester of Health during the four years of high school, preferably during the Freshman or Sophomore years.

Content:  The course is an introduction course designed to help the student cope with health problems that will be encountered in life.  The following topics will be covered:  human ecology and health, human growth and development, prevention and control of disease, public and environmental health, consumer health, safety and disaster survival, mental health and illness, personal health habits, alcohol, drug abuse and use, tobacco, nutrition, dental health, conflict resolution, wellness and bullying.

 

 

 


SCIENCE DEPARTMENT

 

Title:  BIOLOGY 1

Grade Level:  9                                  Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Content:  Biology 1 is a required course for freshmen, designed to meet the needs of a wide range of abilities.  The students will be exposed to a wealth of functional information of the plants and animals and the many processes and principles involved in their life activities.  Areas stressed include vertebrate biology, invertebrate biology, botany and ecology.

 

Title:  BIOLOGY 2

Grade Level:  11, 12                          Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Biology 1 and Environmental Geo Science or Chemistry 1, with a grade of “C” or better.

Content:  Biology 2 is an elective for junior and senior students who received a "C" grade or better in Biology 1.  Course of instruction is offered for those who are preparing for college, biological related jobs or fields of study and for those who have a special interest in the life sciences.  Areas stressed include microbiology, genetics and anatomy/physiology.

 

Title:  CHEMISTRY 1

Grade Level:  10, 11, 12                    Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Algebra I, with a grade of “C” or better.

Content:  Chemistry 1 presents the fundamental background in inorganic and environmental chemistry.  One unit of credit is granted for the successful completion of the course.

 

Title:  CHEMISTRY 2

Grade Level:  11, 12                          Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Chemistry 1.

Content:  This course of study is designed for those students who have successfully completed Chemistry 1 with a grade of "C" or the consent of the instructor.  The course presents a wide array of topics to be discussed within the areas of nuclear chemistry, organic, and biochemistry.

 

Title:  ENVIRONMENTAL GEO SCIENCE (E/G SCIENCE)

Grade Level:  10                                Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Biology 1 and Sophomore status.

Content:  This course is for sophomores who have successfully completed Biology 1.  Environmental Geo Science is designed to improve students general understanding of the physical science phenomena related to the earth upon which we live.  Areas of study include:  geology, oceanography, weather, astronomy, space science and ecology.

 


Title:  PHYSICS

Grade Level:  11, 12                          Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  One year of mathematics beyond Algebra I, and Junior or Senior status.

Content:  This course is designed for junior or senior students who have successfully completed one year of mathematics beyond Algebra I, or with the consent of the instructor.  The general topics covered are: laws of motion and energy, machines, heat and gas laws, astronomy, photography, optics, sound, electricity and magnetism, and nuclear physics. 

 

 

 

SOCIAL STUDIES DEPARTMENT

 

Title:  AREA STUDIES

Grade Level:  9, 10                            Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  Freshman or Sophomore status.

Content:  This is a survey course of the historical, political, economic, social, geographic and cultural factors of selected areas of the world.  The topic areas are selected from the following: Latin America, Europe, Russia, China, Southeast Asia, Africa and Middle East.  The emphasis is focused on the present conditions in the topic area.  Many aspects of government, geography, economics, sociology and current problems are used in studying each region.

 

Title:  CIVICS

Grade Level:  9, 10                            Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  Freshman or Sophomore status.

Content:  This is a required course that needs to be completed before graduation.  Civics will survey the structure and political processes of the Federal Government, the state of Illinois, its local government and the American Economic System.  The course also includes the development of the Constitution and our form of government, voting and elections, the foundations of citizenship, civil and criminal law, and the operation of the government.

 

Title:  WORLD GEOGRAPHY

Grade Level:  9, 10                            Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  Freshman or Sophomore status.

Content:  World Geography is a study of cultural activity of man around the world.  This elective course is designed to acquaint a student with the economics and geographics of the earth and the cultural advancement of the world's people through the use of the Five Themes of Geography.

 

By studying the different regions of the world, the students learn about the cultural activities of the people.  Videos, class projects and class discussions are used to help make comparisons between different groups.  Map skills and locations of important regions and physical features of the earth are used to help the student understand the importance of geography.

 

Title:  WORLD HISTORY

Grade Level:  10, 11, 12                    Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  Sophomore, Junior or Senior status.

Content:  This is an elective course that traces the developments leading to civilization and studies the civilizations that have contributed to world history.  The course focuses on Greek and Roman Civilizations, Feudalism, the Renaissance, the Reformation, the Rise of Nations, the Age of Revolutions, the Industrial Revolution, the World at War, Cold War and post Cold War.  The course develops an appreciation of the world's past and present promise, problems and development.  The course includes lecture, discussion, reports, and use of audio-visual materials.

 

Title:  WORLD STUDIES-HISTORY

Grade Level:  10                                Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  By invitation only.  Enrolling in this class requires enrolling in World Studies-English at the same time.

Content:  This is a full-year, one-credit, class for sophomore students who wish to be academically challenged.  Assignments involve reading, writing, and speaking, and some assignments will offer students opportunities to use their artistic talents, if they so choose.  This class is taught in conjunction with World Studies-English.

 

Title:  AMERICAN HISTORY

Grade Level:  11, 12                          Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  Junior or Senior status.

Content:  The state of Illinois requires this course for graduation from high school.  The course traces American History in a thematic approach through the following major periods:  Exploration, Colonization; Revolution and Independence; Jeffersonian and Jacksonian Democracy; Sectionalism; Civil War; Reconstruction; Industrialism, Populism and Progressivism; World Power; Prosperity and the 20’s; Great Depression and the New Deal; World War II; Cold War and Post Cold War.  The twentieth century is emphasized. Major political, economic, geographic, social and cultural events are emphasized throughout.  The course includes lectures, discussion, reports and use of audio-visual material.

 

Title:  AMERICAN STUDIES-HISTORY

Grade Level:  11                                Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  By invitation only.  Enrolling in this class requires enrolling in American Studies-English at the same time.

Content:  This course is primarily intended for those students who have been identified as gifted/talented.  The primary format of this course, which replaces Advanced American History, will be seminar in nature.  Students will have ample opportunities to collectively and individually explore the underlying aspects of our American experience.  Thematic areas that will be covered are: politics, social/cultural aspects, militarism, economics, religion and literary philosophy/interpretations.   

 

Students will be selected for this course on the basis of their past performance in advanced classes, their achievement test scores, staff and parental recommendations/assessments.

 

Title:  FUNDAMENTAL AMERICAN HISTORY

Grade Level:  11, 12                          Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  Junior or Senior status.

Content:  This course covers the same content areas as American History.

 

Title:  SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY

Grade Level:  11, 12                          Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  Junior or Senior status.

Content:  Social Psychology is designed to introduce the student to the major theories of personality development.  Throughout the course, the role of interpersonal relationships and societal pressures are stressed. The course content aims at an improved self-image, a betterment of interpersonal relationships and the development of and understanding of Psychological terminology.  Social Psychology is recommended for all students.

 

Title:  SOCIOLOGY

Grade Level:  11, 12                          Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  Junior or Senior status.

Content:  Sociology evaluates the roots of our culture, its current condition and future direction.  Attention is given to current problems facing today's students and to sub-groups found in our culture.  Additionally, the class develops sociological vocabulary and theories regarding man's group interaction.

 

Title:  CONSUMER EDUCATION

Grade Level:  11, 12                          Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  Junior or Senior status.

Content:  Consumer education is offered to comply with legislation to provide instruction in consumer education for all students.  As the American consumer faces many perplexing problems, it is our purpose to give the student an understanding of our economic system that will help her/him get the most from that system.  This purpose is accomplished through a study of the American economy and its operation, and of the major areas in which consumers need help in making wise decisions.  Some areas to be studied include: selecting a career; managing money; using credit; buying goods and services; evaluating advertising; purchasing cars, insurance and housing; and understanding laws, taxation, and government regulations and services in relation to the consumer.

 

Any student may request to take a proficiency examination offered by the State of Illinois.  If the student passes the test, she/he is exempt from taking the Consumer Education course.  Exemption status only is granted for successful completion of the test.  Credit for the Consumer Education course is not granted.

 

Title:  ECONOMICS

Grade Level:  11, 12                          Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  Junior or Senior status with required GPA of 3.0 and/or teacher recommendation.

Content:  Economics evaluates the decision-making techniques and challenges of our nation.  These decisions are seen on a personal, corporate, national and international scale.  Through the understanding of basic economic laws, the student will see the interrelationship of the world and our place in it.  The course is divided equally among Personal, Microeconomics and Macroeconomics.  Discussions will include the development of:  supply versus demand side theory, the role money plays in the economy, personal finance decisions, national income accounting, international trade and corporate business decisions.  Economics is offered to students who have shown an ability to succeed and are considering a college future.  Course content and methods will reflect a college preparatory curriculum.  Economics satisfies the State of Illinois mandate for Consumers Education and the school's social studies requirement and receives a weighted grade.

 

Title:  AMERICAN GOVERNMENT

Grade Level:  12                                Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  Senior status.

Content:  This is a required course designed to survey the structure and political processes of the Federal Government, the State of Illinois and its local governments.  The course also includes development of the Constitution and our form of government, principles of the Constitution, civil rights, political parties, voting, nomination and elections, public opinion and interest groups, and the operation of the government.  The course, through a Constitution test, meets the requirements of Illinois Public Law 195 for graduation from a state-supported institution.

 

Title:  FUNDAMENTAL AMERICAN GOVERNMENT

Grade Level:  12                                Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  Senior status.

Content:  This course covers the same content areas as American Government.

 

Title:  ADVANCED AMERICAN GOVERNMENT

Grade Level:  12                                Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Prerequisite:  Senior status with the required GPA of 3.0 and/or teacher recommendation.

Content:  This is a required course designed to survey the structure and political processes of the Federal Government, the State of Illinois and its local governments.  The course also includes development of the Constitution and our form of government, principles of the Constitution, civil rights, political parties, voting, nomination and elections, public opinion and interest groups, and the operation of the government.  The course through a Constitution test, meets the requirements of Illinois Public law 195 for graduation from a state-supported institution.

 

Title:  INDEPENDENT STUDY

Grade Level:  12                                Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  Senior status.

Content:  The Social Studies Department offers this advanced study on the Senior level.  This class is designed to provide the student the opportunity for advanced independent research in a relevant area under the direction of an instructor.  Application for this course may be made with any social studies instructor and is subject to approval by the Social Studies Department.  This class may not be substituted for regular senior social studies classes but must be taken in addition to these.  Credit can be arranged on a semester or yearly basis.

 

 

 

SPECIAL EDUCATION DEPARTMENT

 

The following courses are available for the special needs students in the field of learning disability.

  

Title:  ENGLISH I

Grade Level:  9, 10, 11, 12                Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Content:  This course is designed to provide the students with basic instruction in spelling, vocabulary, reading comprehension, grammar, composition, and a survey of classic and contemporary literature.  Students will have weekly spelling and vocabulary instruction.  They will read independently and report on one book per quarter.

 

Title:  ENGLISH II

Grade Level:  9, 10, 11, 12                Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of English I.

Content:  This course is designed to provide the students with intermediate instruction in spelling, vocabulary, reading comprehension, composition, a survey of classic and contemporary literature, and speech.  Students will have weekly spelling and vocabulary instruction.  They will have one quarter of speech designed to help with presentations and public speaking.  They will also read independently and report on one book each quarter.

 


Title:  ENGLISH III

Grade Level:  9, 10, 11, 12                Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of English II.

Content:  This course is designed to provide the students with advanced instruction in spelling, vocabulary, and reading comprehension.  “Real Life” English skills will be the focus of writing instruction.  Students will have weekly spelling and vocabulary instruction, and independently read and report on one book per quarter.

     

Title:  ENGLISH IV

Grade Level:  9, 10, 11, 12                Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of English III.

Content:  This course is designed to provide the students with advanced instruction in spelling, vocabulary, and reading comprehension, as well as career knowledge.  Students will have weekly instruction in spelling and vocabulary and will be required to read three novels during the year and report on them.  This course will also introduce necessary steps in obtaining and keeping a job.  Writing skills will be practiced through report writing, applications, and resumes.

 

Title:  FUNDAMENTAL MATH CONCEPTS

Grade Level:  9, 10, 11, 12                Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Content:  This course briefly reviews the four basic operations with whole numbers.  The main focus of the course is on learning to apply the four operations to fractions and decimals.  Students develop more refined geometry skills, learning to calculate perimeter, area, and volume for a variety of shapes.  Rates, ratios, and probability are also introduced at this level. 

 

Title:  BASICS OF ALGEBRA I

Grade Level:  9, 10, 11, 12                Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  Recommendation of previous instructor or successful completion of Fundamental Math Concepts.

Content:  This course provides students with a basic Algebra 1 course covering all the topics required to meet testing and curriculum guidelines.  The text reinforces material from previous math courses, and prepares students for future math study.  It provides numerous exercises and a spiraling approach to give students multiple ways to practice the same skill.  Numerous examples incorporate reasoning and problem solving – allowing students to see how skills apply to situations in their everyday lives.

 

Title:  BASICS OF GEOMETRY

Grade Level: 10, 11, 12                     Credit: 1          Length of Course: One year

Prerequisite: Recommendation of previous instructor or successful completion of Basics of Algebra I or equivalent course.

Content: This course provides students with a basic geometry course covering all the topics required to meet testing and curriculum guidelines.  The course provides numerous exercises and review giving students multiple ways to practice the same skill.  Numerous examples and activities allow students to see how skills apply to situations in their everyday lives.

 

Title:  BIOLOGY

Grade Level:  9, 10, 11, 12                Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Content:  This course is designed to expose the student to a wealth of functional information of the plants and animals and the many processes and principles involved in their life activities.  This course is offered every other year

 

Title:  AMERICAN HISTORY

Grade Level:  9, 10, 11, 12                Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Content:  This course is designed to provide the student with a basic understanding of the United States history from the earliest settlements up to the present.  The course will include use of maps, study of presidents, and a chronology of important events.  Vocabulary words will be emphasized. 

 

Title:  AMERICAN GOVERNMENT

Grade Level:  9, 10, 11, 12                Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Content:  This course is designed to provide the student with a basic understanding of the United States system of government.  Students will be instructed in the following areas: early beginnings of the American government, the United States constitution, federal government, state and local governments, and the American judicial system.  Each student will be required to successfully pass a United States constitution test.

 

Title:  FUNDAMENTAL CIVICS

Grade Level:  9, 10, 11, 12                Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Content:  American Civics is a semester course for students with IEP's.  The course will provide students with information pertaining to the United States governmental system, economics and citizenship.  Students will be given information about national, state and local governments.  In addition, students will learn about the economic system in the United States, as well as in other countries.  The rights and responsibilities of citizens and the naturalization process are also featured in this course. 

 

Title:  CONSUMER EDUCATION

Grade Level:  9, 10, 11, 12                Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Content:  This course is designed to help develop the skills necessary to become a successful consumer.  The topics covered are:  finding and applying for a job, opening a checking account, obtaining credit and applying for a credit card, understanding your income taxes, budgeting, insurance, owning and operating a car, housing, investment opportunities, and consumer protection topics.

 

Any student may request to take a proficiency examination offered in February by the State of Illinois.  If the student passes the test she/he is exempt from taking the Consumer Education course.  Exemption status only is granted for successful completion of the test.  Credit for the Consumer Education course is not granted.

 

Title:  HEALTH

Grade Level:  9, 10, 11, 12                Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Content:  The course is an introductory course designed to help the student cope with health problems that will be encountered in life.  The following topics will be covered:  human ecology and health, human growth and development, prevention and control of disease, public and environmental health, consumer health, safety and disaster survival, mental health and illness, personal health habits, alcohol, drug abuse and use, tobacco, nutrition and dental health.

 

Title:  RESOURCE

Grade Level:  9, 10, 11, 12                Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  Must be an IEP student and have teacher recommendation.

Content:  The goal of the Resource program is to provide IEP students with skills needed for successful participation in their mainstream classes.  This is done through both tutorial assistance and instruction in study skills.

 

Title:  ENGLISH I (900)

Grade Level:  9, 10, 11, 12                Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Content:  This course is designed to provide students with basic instruction in spelling, vocabulary, grammar, composition, and comprehension in the study of a novel, plays and short stories.  Students will complete a daily journal assignment and independently read and report on one book report each quarter.  Students will also complete a Computer Awareness unit in the computer lab, which will introduce them to basic computer skills.

 

Title:  ENGLISH II (900)

Grade Level:  9, 10, 11, 12                Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of English I (900).

Content:  This course is designed to provide students with basic instruction in spelling, vocabulary, grammar, composition, and comprehension in the study of a novel, plays and short stories.  Students will complete a daily journal assignment and independently read and report on one book report each quarter.  Students will also complete a Computer Awareness unit in the computer lab, which will introduce them to basic computer skills.

 

Title:  ENGLISH III (902)

Grade Level:  9, 10, 11, 12                Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of English II (900).

Content:  This course is designed to provide students with intermediate instruction in spelling, vocabulary, grammar, composition, and comprehension in the study of a novel, plays, and short stories.  Students will complete a daily journal assignment and independently read and report on one book report each quarter.  Students will use the computer lab on a weekly basis for practice in word processing.

 

Title:  ENGLISH IV (902)

Grade Level:  9, 10, 11, 12                Credit:  1        Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of English III (902).

Content:  This course is designed to provide students with intermediate instruction in spelling, vocabulary, grammar, composition, and comprehension in the study of a novel, plays, and short stories.  Students will complete a daily journal assignment and independently read and report on one book report each quarter.  Students will use the computer lab on a weekly basis for practice in word processing.

 

Title:  VOCATIONAL ORIENTATION I

Grade Level:  9, 10, 11, 12                Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Content:  This course is designed to provide a brief assessment of the student's interests, strengths and lifestyle choices.  Students will then become familiarized with a variety of entry-level jobs.  Job seeking skills, including completing job applications, writing a business letter, resumes, and interviewing skills, will be presented.  Job keeping skills, including the importance of the correct attitudes, grooming, attendance and punctuality, following directions, completing tasks, asking for help, and interpersonal relationship skills will be taught.  Basic tax information, as it relates to completing a W-2, W-4 and 1040EZ form, will also be presented.

 

Title:  AMERICAN GOVERNMENT (921)

Grade Level:  9, 10, 11, 12                Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Content:  This course is designed to provide the student with a basic understanding of the United States system of government.  Students will be instructed in the following areas: early beginnings of the American government, the United States constitution, federal government, state and local governments, and the American judicial system.  Each student will be required to successfully pass a United States constitution test.

 

Title:  CONSUMER EDUCATION (922)

Grade Level:  9, 10, 11, 12                Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Content:  This course is designed to help develop the skills necessary to become a successful consumer.  The topics covered are:  finding and applying for a job, opening a checking account, obtaining credit and applying for a credit card, understanding your income taxes, budgeting, insurance, owning and operating a car, housing, investment opportunities, and consumer protection topics.

 

Any student may request to take a proficiency examination offered in February by the State of Illinois.  If the student passes the test she/he is exempt from taking the Consumer Education course.  Exemption status only is granted for successful completion of the test.  Credit for the Consumer Education course is not granted.

 


Title:  READING (923)

Grade Level:  9, 10, 11, 12                Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One semester

Content:  This course is designed to provide reading instruction and practice for word attack and critical thinking skills to improve the reading ability and comprehension of each individual student.

 

Title:  RESOURCE (929)

Grade Level:  9, 10, 11, 12                Credit:  1/2     Length of Course:  One year

Content:  The Resource program is a study program designed to help the students who are enrolled in mainstream classrooms.  Students will come to Resource to develop their study skills, basic skills, and self-esteem.  Teachers and instructional aides will give assistance with mainstream classes.

 

 

ROCK FALLS HIGH SCHOOL WORK PROGRAM

 

 

Title:  COOPERATIVE WORK TRAINING (CWT)

Grade Level:  11, 12              Credit:  1/2 – 1           Length of Course:  One semester, may be repeated

Content:  Rock Falls High School work program will be offered to junior or senior “at risk” students who are 16 years of age or older.  These students are in jeopardy of non-graduation.  Students are responsible for finding their own job and must have a good attendance record.  The job must have a supervisor who is willing to participate in the work program.

 

 

 

WHITESIDE AREA CAREER CENTER

 

A RFHS student will be allowed to participate at the Whiteside Area Career Center (WACC) with seven or less absences the semester prior to enrollment.  ALL CLASSES OFFERED THROUGH THE WACC COUNT FOR DUAL CREDIT THROUGH SAUK VALLEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE OR HIGHLAND COMMUNITY COLLEGE.

 

Title:  AUTO SERVICES 1 & 2

Grade Level:  11, 12              Credit:  2.50               Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  Junior or Senior status and successful completion of Introduction to Drafting or Introduction to Machining and Metals, or Power Mechanics.

Content:  Auto Services is a one-or two-year program offered to junior and senior students.  First-year students will be building basic repair skills such as lubrication, brakes, engine tune-up, suspension, fuel injection, computer controls, electrical systems, exhaust systems, transmissions and clutches, cooling systems, and heating and air conditioning.  Second-year students will learn engine rebuilding, differential operation, and engine diagnostics, and qualifying students can participate in work-based learning at various job sites in order to gain real world work experiences while going to school.  Employment opportunities include quick lube, independent garages, new car and truck dealerships, auto parts counter person, agricultural mechanic, diesel mechanic, and motorcycle-snowmobile-ATV mechanic.  Dual Credits:  7 HCC (AUTM 113 - 4, AUTM 120 - 3)

 

Title:  BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION TRADES 1 & 2

Grade Level:  11, 12              Credit:  2.50               Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  Junior or Senior status and successful completion of Introduction to Drafting or Wood Production, Woods I, or Fundamentals of Construction.

Content:  Building and Construction Trades is a one-or two-year program offered to junior and senior students.  This course provides experiences related to the construction and maintenance of residential buildings and related fixtures.  During the year, students will spend 80% of their time at a job site constructing a residential house, and 20% in the classroom.  Instruction will include safety principles, framing, plumbing, wiring, roofing, installing insulation, dry wall, painting, pouring concrete, landscaping, estimating materials, blueprint reading, hanging cabinets, siding, hanging doors, heating and air conditioning, masonry, and finish work.  Second-year students are provided the opportunity to advance their skills in the construction trade.  Dual Credits:  8 HCC (MTEC 245 – 3, MTEC 240 – 3, DRAF 110 – 2)

 

Title:  EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION 1 & 2

Grade Level:  11, 12              Credit:  2.50               Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  Junior or Senior status and successful completion of Childhood Studies.

Content:  Child and Day Care Services is a one-or-two-year program offered to junior and senior students.  The program provides preparation and a practicum for students who are interested in teaching children, such as preschool teachers, teachers' aides, elementary teachers and social workers.  Daily activities in the classroom may include videos, readings, and projects to teach children.  Students will work on a weekly basis with the children in the laboratory preschool and will observe their behaviors on a regular basis.  The practicum includes preschool, kindergarten, elementary grades and learning disabilities.  Each student will develop a portfolio and complete a six-week work-based learning experience.  Second-year students will receive additional training from a work-based learning program.  Dual Credits:  9 – 12 SVCC (ECE 110 – 3-6, ECE 114 – 3, ECE 115 – 3)

 

Title:  COMMERCIAL FOOD SERVICE 1 & 2

Grade Level:  12                    Credit:  2.50               Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Orientation to Home Economics Foods.

Content:  Commercial Food Service is a one-or two-year program open to juniors and seniors.  This course is designed to prepare the student for restaurant management and positions including:  Chef, Management/Owner, Server, Cook’s Assistant, and Quality Control.  Students explore Restaurant Management, run a Catering Service, earn the Illinois Food Service Sanitation Managers Certification (1 college credit), as well as complete general studies in all aspects of the profession.  Occupational skills taught include care and use of commercial equipment, food preparation, customer service, management, and nutrition.  Hands-on experiences include food prep labs, caterings, and internship placement.  Workplace skills such as job searching, resume writing, and career portfolio preparation are also taught in this program.  Students also earn IDDBA (International Deli, Dairy, Bakery Association) certification and are placed in a work-based learning experience to gain hands-on experience.  Dual Credits:  6 HCC (HOSP 190 – 2, HOSP 191 – 4)

 

Title:  COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY 1 & 2

Grade Level:  11, 12              Credit:  2.50               Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  Junior or Senior status and successful completion of Intro to Computers, Computer Concepts, or permission of instructor.

Content:  Computer Technology is a one-or-two-year program offered to junior and senior students who want to work with the repair and networking of computers.  Students entering this program will learn the essentials of repairing, maintaining, and networking of computers for both home and small business environments.  The latest methods of networking and configuring operating systems will be used in the class.  Second-year students will continue with courses exploring Microsoft Workstation Operating Systems, Server Operating Systems, and Linux Distributions.  Qualified students will acquire the skills to potentially pass the CompTIA, A+, Network+, Linux+, and/or Microsoft Certified Professional Certification.  Dual Credits:  12 SVCC (CIS 168, CIS 169, CIS 151, CIS 299, CIS 250)

 

Title:  CRIMINAL JUSTICE 1 & 2

Grade Level:  11, 12              Credit:  2.50               Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  Junior or Senior status and successful completion of Business Law.

Content:  Criminal justice is a one- or two-year program designed to train students in various aspects of law enforcement, criminal justice, and the legal system.  Students will receive instruction in skills needed for a careers in associated fields, e.g. police officers, prosecuting and defense attorneys, probation and parole officers, crime scene investigators, correctional officers, etc.  Major objectives of the program include history of law enforcement, constitutional law, Illinois law, courts and the legal system, communication and dispatch operators, report writing and records, criminal investigations, search and seizure, community relations, patrol functions, traffic investigations, corrections, private security operations, criminology, and other related areas.  Computers and role-play scenarios are used to enhance the student’s learning experiences and provide an introduction to practical experiences which might be expected in the field.  Community activities will include field trips, internships, and job shadowing experiences.  The development of employability and transition skills is included in the course as a basic component of the program.  Dual Credits:  9 SVCC (CJS 101 – 3, CJS 120 – 3, CJS 299 – 3 [CJS 299 may be repeated])


Title:  DIGITAL MEDIA ARTS 1 & 2

Grade Level:  11, 12              Credit:  2.50               Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  No prerequisite.

Content:  Digital Media Arts is a one-or-two-year program offered to junior and senior students.  The classes are for visual and creative thinkers as well as computer geeks interested in cutting edge digital and media arts.  The program offers the latest trends, techniques and technologies in the ever-evolving multimedia field.  The wide variety of curriculum provides opportunities to build skills for future success in careers as an illustrator, a desktop publisher, a photographer, a graphic artist, a digital video editor, in video studio staging, a film maker, a computer animator, a sound engineer, a camera operator, a web designer, or other positions in the exciting and growing recording, entertainment and digital media arts field.

 

Students work at their own pace and get “hands-on” experience using state-of-the-art software, sound equipment, cameras, printers and broadcasting equipment in our sound and lighting studios.

 

All classes begin each fall and spring semester and you will take two classes per semester.  All classes are dual-credit classes.  You will receive high school and college credit at no cost to the student.  Students completing a selection of five classes will receive a Certificate in Graphic Design and students completing an additional three elective classes will receive an Advanced Certificate in Digital Media Arts from Sauk Valley Community College.  Students not able to complete the certificates while attending WACC are invited to enroll at Sauk Valley Community College after high school to finish the certificate requirements in they so choose.

 

The courses offered are ART 100-Media Arts, ART 103-Digital Photography, ART 105-Motion Graphics, ART 107-Digital Drawing, ART 231-Graphic Design, ART 234-Multimedia, ART 236-Film and Video, ART 237-Image and Sound Recording, ART 238-Interactive Media Design, ART 299-Topics and Issues.

 

Title:  DRAFTING/COMPUTER AIDED DESIGN 1 & 2

Grade Level:  11, 12              Credit:  2.50               Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  Junior or Senior status and successful completion of Introduction to Drafting.

Content:  Drafting/Computer-Aided Design is a one-or-two-year program offered to junior and senior students.  An emphasis in mechanical design (CAD), architectural design (CAD), or computer graphics may be chosen by the student.  Second-year students gain further exposure to the use of AutoCAD and any unit specific to Mechanical, Architectural and 3D Studio training.  Dual Credits:  15 SVCC (DFT 208 – 3, IND 116 – 3, DFT 121 – 2, DFT 210 – 2, IND 250 – 2)

 


Title:  HEALTH OCCUPATIONS 1 & 2

Grade Level:  12                    Credit:  2.50               Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  Junior or Senior status.  Recommend Chemistry and BIOLOGY 2.

Content:  Health Occupations is a one-year program offered to junior or senior students that are interested in pursuing a career in the medical field  Upon completion of the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) requirements, the students will be eligible to take the State Certified Nursing Assistant exam at the end of the school year.  The students must meet the following criteria to be successful in Health Occupations 1:  1) Achieve a C or better each quarter throughout the year on the coursework; 2) Be competent at the 21 skills in the laboratory and at the clinical site; 3) Have excellent attendance throughout the school year; and 4) Pass the criminal background check.  Students must have an outstanding work ethic, be self-motivated, and take initiative to be successful in Health Occupations.  Are you ready for the challenge?  Dual Credits:  8 SVCC (NRS 101 – 4, NRS 103 – 4)

 

Health Occupations 2 is offered to senior students who have successfully completed the Health Occupations 1 course, received their CNA certificate, and displayed an outstanding work ethic in Health Occupations 1.  Partnerships are offered three days per week; students change clinical sites each quarter and classroom/coursework is offered the other two days per week.  Clinical sites include, but are not limited to, hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, etc.  Students can practice in different areas of the medical field, such as Maternal-Child Nursing, Geriatrics, Emergency Nursing, Radiology, Dental Medicine, or Veterinary Science.  Make a difference as a health care provider!  Students interested in participating in the work-based learning program should see their WACC Instructor regarding criteria.  Dual Credits:  6 SVCC (NRS 116 – 3, NRS 132 – 3)

 

Title:  MACHINE & MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY 1 & 2

Grade Level:  11, 12              Credit:  2.50               Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  Junior or Senior status and successful completion of Introduction to Drafting, Introduction to Machining and Metals, Metals 1, and Algebra I.

Content:  Machine & Manufacturing Technology is a one-or-two-year program offered to junior and senior students.  The first year provides skills for entry into machine shop and metal working occupations.  Students learn machine skills through the making of tools such as center punch, plumb bob, hammer, parallel bars, vise clamp, gavel, and more.  The second-year students further refine first year skills while learning advanced techniques and machining processes.  Curriculum includes machine grinding techniques, lathe and mill operations, EDM and CNC programming, blueprint reading, and heat treatment.  Dual Credits:  7 SVCC (IND 125 – 4, IND 116 – 3)

 

Title:  WELDING AND FABRICATION 1 & 2

Grade Level:  12                    Credit:  2.50               Length of Course:  One year

Prerequisite:  Junior or Senior status and successful completion of Introduction to Drafting, Introduction to Machining and Metals, and Welding 1.

Content:  Welding and Fabrication is a one-or-two-year program offered to junior and senior students.  Welding and metal fabrication techniques will be taught through hands-on experience.  Topics include various types of welding, machine operations, welding blueprints and metallurgy principles.  The second year will provide the student with the opportunity to obtain advanced training on components of welding and metal fabrication.  Dual Credits:  9 SVCC (IND 125 – 4, IND 116 – 3, IND 299 – 2)