iCampus Virtual Learning School

1. Attendance & Participation Requirements
Students enrolled in our alternative education virtual program must:

• Log in and actively participate in coursework at least five days per week.
• Complete a minimum of one class or its equivalent per month to demonstrate progress.
• Communicate with their assigned mentor at least once per week (via phone, email, or virtual meeting).
• Attend any required in-person or virtual meetings as directed by school staff.

Failure to meet these expectations may result in intervention, probation, or withdrawal from the program.

2. Involuntary Withdrawal (Administrative Drop)

• A student may be withdrawn from the program if they meet any of the following conditions:
• Non-Attendance: No logins or coursework activity for 10 consecutive school days without prior approval.
• Lack of Progress: Failure to complete at least 100% of coursework or the equivalent of a full class over a one-month period.
• No Mentor Communication: Failure to respond to outreach from a mentor for three weeks.
• State Testing Non-Compliance: All students must participate in required state assessments (MSTEP, NWEA, SAT, etc.). Failure to attend testing may result in withdrawal.
• Violation of School Policies: Engaging in academic dishonesty, cyberbullying, or misconduct related to school equipment may result in removal.

3. Voluntary Withdrawal (Student/Parent Request)

Students wishing to withdraw from the program must:

• Submit a withdrawal request to school administration.
• Return any school-issued devices or materials (if applicable).

4. Intervention & Reinstatement Process

Before a student is officially withdrawn, staff will make multiple attempts to re-engage the student:

• Contact via phone, email, text, Edmentum message, and parent/guardian outreach.
• If unresponsive, a final warning letter will be sent, requesting that the parent and student come in and sign an academic contract.
  • According to the academic contract, students must stay in contact weekly with their mentor and complete at least one class or its equivalent per month.
  • Both parent and student must come in, read, and sign the academic probation letter.
• If there is no response within 14 days of receiving the warning letter, the student will be withdrawn, removed from Edmentum, and dropped from PowerSchool.
• If a withdrawn student wishes to re-enroll, they must wait until the next semester and complete new enrollment paperwork.
   

5. Special Circumstances
Students experiencing extenuating circumstances (medical issues, homelessness, family emergencies, etc.) should notify school staff as soon as possible. Accommodations may be made based on documentation provided and approval from the administrator..
 

Clintondale iCampus Virtual Learning School
Middle School Courses

2024-2025 Course Descriptions

Middle School Core Courses: 

English 6A/B
This course provides a strong foundation in grammar and the writing process. It emphasizes simple but useful composition and language mechanics strategies with multiple opportunities for modeling practical, real-world writing situations that will enable students to improve their written communication skills quickly. Through a variety of grade-appropriate reading selections, students develop a clear understanding of key literary genres and their distinguishing characteristics.

English 7A/B
English 7 Integrates the study of writing and literature through the examination of a variety of genres. Students identify the elements of composition in the reading selections to understand their function and effect on the reader. Practice is provided in narrative and expository writing. Topics include comparison and contrast, persuasion, and cause and effect essays, as well as descriptive and figurative language. Lessons are supplemented with vocabulary development, grammar, and syntax exercises, along with an introduction to verbal phrases and research tools.

English 8A/B
Extends the skills developed in English 7 through detailed study of parts of sentences and paragraphs to understand their importance to good writing. Students also acquire study skills such as time management and improved test-taking strategies. Other topics include punctuation, word choice, syntax, varying of sentence structure, subordination and coordination, detail and elaboration, effective use of reference materials, and proofreading.

Math 6 A/B
This semester-long middle school course will provide students with a deep understanding and mastery of the objectives that will prepare them for algebra. It is aligned to Common Core State Standards, and is based on best practices in the teaching of mathematics and the disciplines of STEM learning. Students will develop 21st century skills as they master ratios and proportional relationships; the number system; and number visualization. The course is highly engaging while being easy for teachers to customize and manage.

Math 7 A/B
Math 7 builds on material learned in earlier grades, including fractions, decimals, and percentages and introduces students to concepts they will continue to use throughout their study of mathematics. Among these are surface area, volume, and probability. Real-world applications facilitate understanding, and students are provided multiple opportunities to master these skills through practice problems within lessons, homework drills, and graded assignments. 

Math 8 A/B
This course is designed to enable all students at the middle school level to develop a deep understanding of math objectives and leaves students ready for algebra. The first semester covers objectives in transformations, linear equations, systems of equations, and functions. The second semester focuses on scientific notation, roots, the Pythagorean Theorem and volume, and statistics and probability. The course is based on the Common Core State Standards Initiative and on a modern understanding of student learning in mathematics.

Science 6 A/B
This inquiry- and lab-based course is designed to support modern science curriculum and teaching practices. It robustly meets NGSS learning standards associated with a sixth-grade integrated science course (NGSS Appendix K: Modified Conceptual Progression Model, p. 19), focusing on basic physical science, Earth and space science, and ecosystems. Content topics include structure and properties of matter, forces and motion, the Earth and space, the history of the Earth, the interdependence of ecosystems, and weather and climate.
Each lesson includes one or more inquiry-based activities that can be performed online within the context of the lesson. In addition, the course includes a significant number of hands-on lab activities. Approximately 40% of student time in this course is devoted to true lab experiences, as defined by the National Research Council (2006, p. 3).

Science 7 A/B
This inquiry- and lab-based course is designed to support modern science curriculum and teaching practices. It robustly meets NGSS learning standards associated with a seventh-grade integrated science course (NGSS Appendix K: Modified Conceptual Progression Model, p. 19), focusing on cells, the life cycle, nutrition, chemical reactions, force fields, and energy. Content topics include cells and human body systems, the life cycle, nutrition and energy, chemical reactions, force fields, and energy.
Each lesson includes one or more inquiry-based activities that can be performed online within the context of the lesson. In addition, the course includes a significant number of hands-on lab activities. Approximately 40% of student time in this course is devoted to true lab experiences, as defined by the National Research Council (2006, p. 3).

Science 8 A/B
This inquiry- and lab-based course is designed to support modern science curriculum and teaching practices. It robustly meets NGSS learning standards associated with an eighth-grade integrated science course (NGSS Appendix K: Modified Conceptual Progression Model, p. 19). Content topics include genes and adaptations, evolution, energy and the Earth, the Earth’s changing climate, waves, and technology and human impacts on the Earth.
Each lesson includes one or more inquiry-based activities that can be performed online within the context of the lesson. In addition, the course includes a significant number of hands-on lab activities. Approximately 40% of student time in this course is devoted to true lab experiences, as defined by the National Research Council (2006, p. 3).

Social Studies 6 A/B
 Human Geography: Our Global Identity Modern humans have been roaming the earth for about 200,000 years. How do the places we live influence the way we live? How do geography, weather, and location relate to our customs and lifestyles? In Human Geography: Our Global Identity, you will explore the diverse ways that different people have physically influenced the world around them and how they, in turn, are changed by their surroundings. Discover how beliefs and ideas spread through time, shaping and changing the cultures they encounter. In this course, you’ll gain tremendous insight into human geography and begin to better understand the important relationship between humans and their environments.

Social Studies 7 A/B
In Middle School World History, learners will study major historical world events from early human societies through to the present day. Multimedia tools including custom videos as well as videos from the BBC, custom maps, and interactive timelines will help engage learners as they complete this year-long course. They will explore the development of early humans and early civilizations. They will be introduced to the origins of major world religions, such as Hinduism and Buddhism. Also, learners will study the medieval period. Historical thinking and geography skills will be taught and utilized throughout the course. 

Social Studies 8 A/B
In Middle School U.S. History, learners will explore historical American events with the help of innovative videos, timelines, and interactive maps and images. The course covers colonial America through the Reconstruction period. Learners will develop historical thinking and geography skills, which they will use throughout the course to heighten their understanding of the material. Specific topics of study include the U.S. Constitution, the administrations of George Washington and John Adams, the War of 1812, and the Civil War.

Middle School Electives:

Middle School Exploring Business

Are you interested in business, leading people, or making decisions to help a business be successful? While there are many different career choices in the field of business, in this course, you’ll discover options such as management, human resources, business operations, information management, and accounting. Explore the skills you’ll need, common tasks, the technology used, and characteristics of various business careers.

Fitness 

Fitness Basics 1
This course provides students with a basic understanding of fitness and nutrition. Students will learn about exercise safety, team and individual sports, nutrition, and the importance of staying active throughout their lifetime. Students conduct fitness assessments, set goals, develop their own fitness program, and participate in weekly physical activity.

Fitness Basics 2
This course provides students with a basic understanding of fitness and nutrition. Students will learn about exercise safety, team and individual sports, nutrition, and the importance of staying active throughout their lifetime. Students conduct fitness assessments and participate in weekly physical activity.

Middle School Exploring Music
What comes to mind when you hear the word ‘music’? Do you think about your favorite band or artist? Do you think about instruments and scales and chords? The word ‘music’ means something different to everyone. This is why in Exploring Music there is a little bit of something for everyone! You will learn about how we hear music and how music affects our lives. You will explore important elements of music like rhythm, pitch, and harmony, as well as different musical genres. You will discover more about your singing voice and musical instruments and composition while taking in the history and culture of music over the years. Tune up your understanding and appreciation for all things music by signing up for this course! 

Career Explorations  

Middle School Career Exploration 1
How do you pick a career path when you’re not sure what’s even out there? This course allows you to begin exploring options in fields such as teaching, business, government, hospitality, health science, IT, and more! You’ll align your interests, wants, and needs to career possibilities, including the required education for each. Let’s find a pathway that works for you.

Middle School Career Exploration 2
Imagine that it’s 20 years from now. What career do you see yourself in? What do you imagine that you’ll be doing? Will you be fighting forest fires or engineering the next rocket into space? With all the careers available, it can be difficult to narrow them down. In Middle School Career Exploration 2 we’ll explore more careers and see what it takes to succeed. You’ll learn more about what steps are needed to prepare for your career and how to compare the pros and cons of different career choices. Finally, you’ll get the chance to try out parts of different careers to see if you’re a perfect fit!

Middle School Exploring Health Science
Where do healthcare workers spend their days? What do they really do? From cruise ships to sports arenas, you can find healthcare workers in many places that you might not expect. Explore this field, including what it would be like to work in a medical lab. Learn what it takes to keep you and your patients safe, and begin to learn about the human body and basic first-aid.

Middle School Journalism: Tell Your Story
Are you someone who likes to get the story straight? Do you always want to know more? Who? What? When? Where? How? These are the details that make for a great story. Knowing how to find these key facts and then write them up in a way that makes it easy for others to read about it is the skill of a true journalist. In Middle School Journalism: Tell Your Story, you’ll learn how to ask the right questions, look for the details, and find the story in any situation. You’ll learn how to gather information effectively, organize ideas, format stories for media production, and edit your articles. Get ready to break that news!

Middle School Photography 1a: Introduction
Photographs are all around us, and each helps to tell a story. Now it’s time for you to create your story through photos you learn how to take in this course. Learn the basics of using a camera, lighting, and how to choose great subjects to create magazine-worthy photos and amaze your friends and family with your skills.

Middle School Photography 1b: Drawing with Light
Do you have vacation photos or pics of your pet that need a little editing? How about getting ready to add that new selfie you took to your social media platform? Taking photos is an art, and editing photos is a skill that many photographers seek to master. Explore how to manipulate angles and lighting, the purpose for different types of photo files, how to use different software to edit photos, and safe places you can store them. You’ll be well on your way to being an editing guru when you’re done with this course.

Middle School  Business and Information Technology
Business and Information Technology focuses on building a solid foundation of business and information technology knowledge. Topics include entrepreneurship, marketing, product design, digital citizenship, and computer basics. In addition, the course explains how to create a personal profile by evaluating personal values, interests, and aptitudes. It also explains how to create a career plan. Finally, it covers how to create an electronic portfolio and conduct a job search in a specific area of interest within the business and information technology industries. 
Lesson Activities, Unit Activities, and a Course Activity help students develop and apply durable skills such as critical thinking, written communication skills, and creativity. A Course Project focuses on helping students develop additional durable skills such as goal setting, planning, and entrepreneurship. Videos and interactive content included in the lessons keep students engaged and make technical concepts easy to understand. The end-of-semester test helps students reinforce their understanding of key concepts.

Middle School Earth and Space Science A & B
Middle School Earth and Space Science delivers instruction, practice, and review to help students develop scientific literacy, deepen conceptual understanding, and apply scientific practices. Students explore concepts including Earth's systems, engineering design, the nature of the universe, and the interaction between humans and the environment. 
The two-semester course is arranged in themed units, each with two to three lessons. In each unit, activities make complex ideas accessible to students as they discover the nature of science through focused content, interactive mini-investigations, multi-modal representations, and personalized feedback. Each lesson includes a variety of activities such as direct instruction, application of skills, performance tasks, and formative and summative assessments. Students engage with the subject matter in an interactive, feedback-rich environment as they progress through standards-aligned content and demonstrate their learning through computer- and teacher-scored assignments.

Middle School Life Science A & B
Middle School Life Science delivers instruction, practice, and review to help students develop scientific literacy, deepen conceptual understanding, and apply scientific practices. Students explore concepts including the relationship between structure and function, the flow of energy and matter through living systems, heredity, and the diversity of life.

The two-semester course is arranged in themed units, each with two to three lessons. In each unit, activities make complex ideas accessible to students as they discover the nature of science through focused content, interactive mini-investigations, multi-modal representations, and personalized feedback. Each lesson includes a variety of activities such as direct instruction, application of skills, performance tasks, and formative and summative assessments. Students engage with the subject matter in an interactive, feedback-rich environment as they progress through standards-aligned content and demonstrate their learning through computer- and teacher-scored assignments.
 

Clintondale iCampus Virtual Learning School
High School Courses

2024-2025 Course Descriptions

iCampus Virtual Learning School graduation requirements (20 credits) This includes the 18 credits required by the State of Michigan.

Michigan High School Graduation Requirements (18 Credits)

ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS (ELA) – 4 Credits
• Proficiency in State Content Standards for ELA (4 credits)

MATHEMATICS – 4 Credits
• Proficiency in State Content Standards for Mathematics (3 credits); and
• Proficiency in district-approved 4th Mathematics credit options (1 credit) (Students MUST
have a Math experience in their final year of high school.)

ONLINE LEARNING EXPERIENCE
• Course, Learning, or Integrated Learning Experience.

PERSONAL FINANCE – ½ Credit (Effective with students entering 8 th grade in 2024)
• Proficiency in State Content Standards for Personal Finance.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION & HEALTH – 1 Credit
• Proficiency in State Content Standards for Physical Education and Health (1 credit); or
• Proficiency with State Content Standards for Health (1/2 credit) and district-approved extra-
curricular activities involving physical activities (1/2 credit).

SCIENCE – 3 Credits
• Proficiency in State Content Standards for Science (3 credits); or
• Beginning with the Class of 2015: Proficiency in some State Content Standards for Science
(2 credits) and completion of a Department approved formal Career and Technical Education
(CTE) program (1 credit).

SOCIAL STUDIES – 3 Credits
• Proficiency in State Content Standards for Social Studies (3 credits).

VISUAL, PERFORMING, AND APPLIED ARTS – 1 Credit
• Proficiency in State Content Standards for Visual, Performing, and Applied Arts (1 credit).

WORLD LANGUAGE – 2 Credits (Effective with students entering 3rd Grade in 2006)
• Formal coursework or an equivalent learning experience in Grades K-12 (2 credits); or
• Formal coursework or an equivalent learning experience in Grades K-12 (1 credit) and
completion of a Department approved formal Career and Technical Education program or an
additional visual, performing, and applied arts credit (1 credit).

Electives - 2 Credits

English: All Required 

English 9 A
English is the study of the creation and analysis of literature written in the English language. In English 9A, you will study a variety of techniques to improve your reading comprehension and writing skills. The instruction covers many types of writing: creative, descriptive, expository, narrative, and persuasive. In English 9A, you will read and analyze literature in different genres as well as practice skills related to good study habits. You will sharpen your writing skills as you evaluate literary works with regard to literary technique, form, and theme. 

English 9 B
English is the study of the creation and analysis of literature written in the English language. In English 9B, you will study a variety of techniques to improve your reading comprehension and writing skills. The instruction covers many types of writing: creative, descriptive, expository, narrative, and persuasive. In English 9B, you will read and analyze Shakespeare’s play Romeo and Juliet, as well as read speeches and essays to evaluate their arguments. 

English 10 A
In English 10A you will explore the different literary devices used in short stories, such as subject, theme, mood, plot, and narration. You will read and analyze a variety of literary works to learn more about a particular literary device. In English 10A, you will also study a variety of techniques to improve your reading comprehension, writing skills, and grammar and mechanics.

English 10 B
In English 10B you will explore characteristics of different genres of fiction, such as realistic fiction, historical fiction, and science fiction, and analyze historical context, theme, and genre in Franz Kafka’s novella The Metamorphosis. In English 10B, you will also study a variety of techniques to improve your reading comprehension, writing skills, and grammar and mechanics. 

English 11 A
In English 11A you will study a variety of techniques to improve your reading comprehension and writing skills. The instruction covers many types of writing: creative, descriptive, expository, narrative, and persuasive. In English 11A, you will read and analyze different genres in literature with an emphasis on American literary movements over time. 

English 11 B
In English 11B you will study a variety of techniques to improve your reading comprehension and writing skills. The instruction covers many types of writing: creative, descriptive, and narrative. In English 11B, you will read and analyze a variety of literary genres with an emphasis on modern American literature and literary movements. 

English 12 A
In English 12A you will explore the relation between British history and literature from the Anglo-Saxon period through the neoclassical era, including the works of Shakespeare. In English 12A you will also study a variety of techniques to improve your reading comprehension, writing skills, and grammar and mechanics. The instruction covers many types of writing: creative, descriptive, expository, narrative, and persuasive. 

English 12 B
In English 12B you will explore the relation between British history and literature from the romantic period to the modern era. In English 12B you will also study a variety of techniques to improve your reading comprehension, writing skills, and grammar and mechanics. The instruction covers many types of writing: creative, descriptive, expository, narrative, and persuasive. 

Math: Required

Algebra 1 A
Algebra is a branch of mathematics that uses symbols in place of numbers to describe and generalize relationships. In Algebra 1A, you will explore relationships between mathematical quantities, how to reason with equations and inequalities, graphing, functions, and mathematical modeling. You will build on your knowledge of variables, exponents, expressions, and algebraic terminology by applying algebra to real-world situations

Algebra 1 B
In Algebra 1A you worked with expressions containing monomials and binomials. In Algebra 1B you’ll extend these ideas to factor and perform operations on polynomial expressions containing more than two terms. In Algebra 1B you’ll solve quadratic equations. In quadratic equations, the highest power on a variable is 2. You’ll study the parabola, a conic section defined by a quadratic equation. You’ll build your graphing skills by analyzing and plotting different types of functions: absolute value functions, piecewise functions, exponential functions, and logarithmic functions. Finally, you’ll study statistics as you interpret the shapes of data distributions and delve into correlation and causation.

Algebra 2 A
 In Algebra 2A, you will perform operations and identify restrictions on rational expressions (expressions that contain rational numbers as coefficients). You will also analyze and graph polynomial functions. Algebra 2A will introduce you to a new concept, complex numbers. Complex numbers rely on an imaginary unit, i, where i 2 = -1. You will plot complex numbers in the complex number plane and solve quadratic equations in the complex number system.

Algebra 2 B
In Algebra 2B, you will begin with trigonometry, which is the study of how the sides and angles of a triangle are related. You will examine trigonometric functions and graphs in the context of the unit circle. You will extend your understanding of lines by classifying systems of linear equations. In prior courses, you solved inequalities by graphing. 

Geometry A
Geometry is a branch of mathematics that uses logic and formal thinking to establish mathematical relationships between points, lines, surfaces, and solids. In Geometry A, you will explore rigid and non-rigid transformations of figures in the coordinate plane and use them to establish congruence and similarity of triangles and other shapes. You will also prove theorems about lines, angles, triangles, and parallelograms, and build geometric constructions using both basic tools and modern technology. In conclusion, you will apply your knowledge of triangles as you investigate the mathematics of trigonometry. 

Geometry B
In Geometry B, you will review the volume formulas for some common solid figures as you extend your knowledge of two dimensional shapes to three-dimensional shapes. You will also transition from primarily Euclidean geometry to analytical geometry—a segment of geometry focused on numerical measurements and coordinate algebra. You will use analytical geometry and observations to investigate the properties of circles and constructions related to circles. Geometry B closes with a study of independent and conditional probability and how you can use probability models to represent situations arising in everyday life. 

Math Electives: Select two of the following.

Consumer Mathematics
In this course, you will learn practical applications of math. You will learn how to plan a budget, manage bank accounts, and figure the cost of a good or service. You will also learn about taxes, payroll deductions, and how to invest and borrow money. This course will help you make informed decisions about buying or renting a home or car and teach you how to protect your purchases and investments with insurance. Finally, you will study economics, or the science of the creation, distribution, and consumption of goods and services. You’ll see how economics affects you as an individual and how it affects the country as a whole. 

Personal Financial Mathematics A
Financial Mathematics, Semester A, is a single-semester course designed to introduce you to the basics of financial algebra. This course includes lessons that focus on planning for expenses and developing financial goals. You’ll learn to use algebraic expressions that model growth that’s due to interest. You’ll also describe investments in terms of their cost, risks, and returns. 

Personal Financial Mathematics B
Financial Mathematics, Semester B, is a single-semester course designed to provide insight into some advanced concepts of financial algebra. In this course, you’ll see how businesses achieve profits through proper financial planning. You’ll examine the benefits and consequences of using credit cards and taking out loans. You’ll also describe the procedures for filing taxes and identify taxes levied on various investments. 

Science: Required 

Biology A
Biology is a science dedicated to studying all forms of life on Earth. You are probably familiar with life on a large scale, but do you know what makes up life? This course will teach you about the smallest building block of life—the cell. You will learn what makes a cell, how cells are built and their functions, as well as how mutations in cells can cause them to change genetically. 

Biology B
Biology is a science dedicated to studying all forms of life on Earth. You are probably familiar with a number of plants and animals, but do you know what makes them different from each other? This course will show you how scientists categorize various types of life, as well as the structure of plants and animals. You will also learn about how ecosystems support different life forms, and how the systems change to cater to the life forms that live within them. 

Chemistry A
In Chemistry A, you will learn some of the “basics” of chemistry: the atomic and molecular structures that result in different chemical properties and the concepts and tools that will enable you to predict chemical properties and chemical reactions. 

Chemistry B
In Chemistry B, you will learn about key types of chemical relationships and reactions, including solutions, reversible reactions, acid-base reactions, thermochemical systems, and electrochemical systems. You will use your knowledge to analyze new situations and make qualitative and quantitative predictions. Finally, you will extend your chemical knowledge into the areas of nuclear chemistry, organic chemistry, and biochemistry. 

Science Electives: Select  two of the following:

Earth Space Science A
Earth and Space Science A begins with space. You will observe the phases of the Moon and use scientific evidence to understand how Earth, the Sun, and the Moon interact. You’ll also examine other celestial objects in our solar system. This course describes the history of Earth through the study of energy flow, weathering and erosion, the rock cycle, and tectonic plate movements. You will apply an understanding of the three states of matter to explain the water cycle and other systems on Earth. 

Earth Space Science B
Earth and Space Science B explains how convection shapes the weather, climate, and movement of ocean currents on Earth. The course takes an in-depth look at climate change and the greenhouse effect in Earth’s atmosphere. It draws attention to severe weather events and describes how technology plays a role in keeping communities safe. It also explores how the growing human population poses challenges for the distribution of Earth’s natural resources today and in the future.

Environmental Science A
In Environmental Science, Semester A, you will learn about the importance of environmental science as an interdisciplinary field. You will describe abiotic and biotic factors of an ecosystem. You will describe the importance of biodiversity for the survival of organisms and the importance of the food chain and the food web in the ecosystem. You will learn about ecological interactions and succession. You will discuss the effects of climate change and explore different types of adaptation. Further, you will describe the steps of the water cycle, and discuss how carbon, oxygen, nitrogen, and phosphorus cycle in the global environment.

Environmental Science B
In Environmental Science, Semester B, you will learn about the factors that affect populations. You will explore human population growth and its implications. You will describe the factors that lead to unequal distribution of natural resources on Earth. You will discuss waste management. You will describe different forms of pollution, and explore ways to control pollution. You will explore various nonrenewable and renewable energy sources. Further, you will learn about benefits of environmental policies and identify factors that affect sustainable development. 

Social Studies: Required 

Economics
Economics is a social science that examines how goods and services are created, consumed, and exchanged. This course covers basic economic problems such as scarcity, choice, and effective use of resources. It also covers topics on a larger scale such as market structures and international trade. It particularly focuses on the US economy and analyzes the role of the government and the Federal Reserve System.  

US Government
 In US Government, you will learn about the principles and events that led to the founding of the United States in the eighteenth century; examine how the operations of the US government are spread among three branches of government and distributed between the national, state, and Federal levels of government; explore the role of the individual citizen in the operations of the government; and, finally, apply these concepts to understanding the concrete areas of foreign, domestic, and economic policy. You’ll explore timelines to gain an understanding of how events link to each other and to the structures of government that exist today, and you’ll analyze historical documents for a firsthand sense of how government structures were designed. You’ll also gather evidence from relevant documents and historical texts to develop credible explanations of how and why the government exists as it does. You’ll then use that evidence to express viewpoints on the operations of government by writing essays and creating presentations about topics of relevance to modern US citizens. 

 U.S. History A
 In US History A, you will learn about the process of historical inquiry, review the events and principles behind the founding of the United States, and then apply historical inquiry to analyze societal issues, trends, and events from the Civil War through the Great Depression. You’ll explore timelines to gain an understanding of how events link to each other, and you’ll analyze historical documents for a firsthand sense of how events unfolded. You’ll also gather evidence from relevant documents and historical texts in order to develop credible explanations of events in US history. You’ll then use that evidence to evaluate change and continuity over time by writing essays and creating presentations about broad periods of historical development.  

U.S. History B
In US History B, you will apply historical inquiry to analyze societal issues, trends, and events of US history from World War II to the present, including the Cold War, Civil Rights and other social movements, the Vietnam War, modern presidencies, and responses to global terrorism. You’ll explore timelines to gain an understanding of how events link to each other, and you’ll analyze historical documents for a firsthand sense of how events unfolded. You’ll also gather evidence from relevant documents and historical texts in order to develop credible explanations of events in US history. You’ll then use that evidence to evaluate change and continuity overtime.

Michigan -World History, and Geography  A 
World History, Semester A, provides learners with a cohesive and connected learning experience. Research strongly supports the use of connections to increase learner achievement. The majority of lessons focus on a particular period in world history, analyzing the events, people, and social trends involved in how we view that period. Some lessons instruct students on the process of historical inquiry and apply that process to high-level themes across the entire arc of world history. Course also looks at Geography in relation to Historical Events. 

Michigan -World History, and Geography  B
World History, Semester B, provides learners with a cohesive and connected learning experience. Research strongly supports the use of connections to increase learner achievement. The majority of lessons focus on a particular period in world history, analyzing the events, people, and social trends involved in how we view that period. Some lessons instruct students on the process of historical inquiry and apply that process to high-level themes across the entire arc of world history.  Course also looks at Geography in relation to Historical Events. 

Health/PE Courses: Required

Health
Everyone needs to take care of their body, but we aren’t necessarily born with the knowledge of how to go about it. It’s important to invest time and energy into understanding what it means to be healthy. There are many activities you can engage in which are dangerous for your long-term health, so you need to know how to identify and avoid these activities. This course will guide you through lifestyle choices you will make which will ultimately impact your life in meaningful ways. 
Physical Education
By definition, physical education is instruction in exercise and physical activity. It teaches you how to maintain your personal fitness, how to measure different aspects of physical fitness, and how to avoid injury while exercising. It’s all about getting active and setting your body in motion. By measuring health and fitness with objective data, it’s possible to improve your health in a methodical way. Exercise helps you feel good about yourself and helps you sidestep the health problems that often accompany poor levels of fitness. 

Language: Required

Spanish 1 A 
In Spanish 1A, you'll be introduced to several common situations in which people communicate, such as exchanging names and greetings, describing people by physical and personality traits, and describing family members and aspects of your social life. You'll start with basic sentence structures and grammatical tools, and you'll learn to communicate by listening, speaking, reading, and writing in Spanish as you internalize new vocabulary and grammar. You'll also learn about some regions of the Spanish speaking world where the central characters of each unit are visiting. 

Spanish 1 B 
In Spanish 1B, you'll be introduced to several common situations in which people describe how to earn, save, and manage money, modes of urban transportation, various seasons and the associated weather conditions, food, clothes, and activities. You’ll also describe various art forms, plays, concerts, and movies. You’ll discuss health and well-being and travel and tourism. You'll build on what you learned in the Spanish 1B course to communicate by listening, speaking, reading, and writing in Spanish as you internalize new vocabulary and grammar. 

Spanish 2 A 
In Spanish 2A, you'll be reintroduced to Spanish in common situations, beginning with describing classes, school friends, teachers, and school supplies. You’ll discuss different styles of dressing, housing and neighborhoods, and learn about relationships between family members and friends, students and teachers, and employees and employers. You’ll also describe daily personal routines and schedules, household chores and family responsibilities. Finally, you’ll discuss different types of cuisine, dining establishments, and dining etiquette. You'll also learn about some regions of the Spanish speaking world where the central characters of each unit are visiting. 

Spanish 2 B 
In Spanish 2B, you'll be reintroduced to Spanish in common situations, beginning with various professions and career plans for the future. You’ll discuss traveling to different regions and the flora and fauna found in each region and describe different types of trips, including road trips, camping, and ecotourism. You’ll also describe different hobbies, activities, and crafts that people enjoy. Finally, you’ll discuss different medical specialists, including dentists and veterinarians, and describe symptoms related to illness and injury. You'll also learn about some regions of the Spanish speaking world where the central characters of each unit are visiting. 

VPAA Courses: Select two of the following:

Art History and Appreciation
Art has played a significant role in every major civilization throughout the history of man. The emergence of different art forms often reflects the values that a civilization deems important: religion, labor, love, political change, or even commerce. 

Graphic Design and Illustration
Graphic Design and Illustration is a two-semester course that allows students to develop an understanding of the industry with a focus on topics such as the history of graphic design, types of digital images, graphic design tools, storing and manipulating images, design elements and principles, copyright laws, and printing images. The course is based on Career Technical Education (CTE) standards designed to help students develop the technical knowledge and skills needed for success in careers in the graphic design industry.

Music Appreciation
This one-semester elective course is intended as a practical, hands-on guide to help you understand, discuss, and appreciate music more knowledgeably. You will explore the history and evolution of music. You will also learn about the concepts and techniques in music and music listening. You will also learn about musical instruments, famous composers and artists, and key musical genres.  

Introduction to Fashion Design
This one-semester elective course is intended to introduce you to the basics of fashion design. In this course, you will explore the history of fashion, the components of fashion, the influences and contributions of some key fashion innovators, and the various steps involved in the production of a garment. 

Professional 

Photography A
This course will cover various topics in photography, such as history of photography, types of photography, types of camera, camera support equipment, types of camera lenses, exposure, lighting setups, rules of composition, color photography, storing and manipulating images, copyright laws and fair use, and printing photos.

Electives: Select four of the following:

Personal Health & Fitness
This combined health and PE course provides students with essential knowledge and decision-making skills for a healthy lifestyle. Students will analyze aspects of emotional, social, and physical health and how these realms of health influence each other. Students will apply principles of health and wellness to their own lives. In addition, they will study behavior change and set goals to work on throughout the course. Other topics of study include substance abuse, safety and injury prevention, environmental health, and consumer health.

Introduction to Philosophy
Introduction to Philosophy provides students an introduction to the field of philosophy and its great, timeless questions. This one-semester course is intended as a practical guide to help students understand the subject matter of philosophy, its main branches, and the major ideas and issues discussed in each branch. Students will explore the origin and evolution of philosophy as a discipline and learn about the times, lives, and intellectual contributions of essential philosophers.

Psychology 1: The Road to Self-Discovery
Have you ever wondered why you do the things you do? Have you asked yourself if self-knowledge is the key to self-improvement? Are you interested in how behavior changes as we age? Psychology can give you the answers! In Personal Psychology I: The Road to Self-Discovery, you will trace the development of personality and behavior from infancy through adulthood. You will come to learn more about perception and consciousness and better understand the role of sensation. Are you ready to explore the world of human behavior? Come explore all that psychology can offer to help you to truly understand the human experience.

Psychology 2: Living in a Complex World
Why do you sometimes remember song lyrics but can’t remember where you left your phone, your keys, or even your shoes? How does language affect the way we think? Why is your personality so different from (or so similar) your brother’s or sister’s personality? Personal Psychology II: Living in a Complex World will allow you to explore what makes you ‘you’. Why do some things motivate you more than others? How can you determine your IQ? If you’ve ever wanted to dive right into the depths of who you are and how you gotta be you, jump on board and start your exploration now!\

Accounting 1A
Accounting I examines how to make decisions about planning, organizing, and allocating resources using accounting procedures. Throughout the course, students focus on double-entry accounting; methods and principles of recording business transactions; the preparation of various documents used in recording revenues, expenses, assets, and liabilities; and the preparation of financial statements.
This course allows students to explore careers in accounting while learning skills applicable to any professional setting. Students will engage in project-based activities such as analyzing financial statements; implementing the accounts payable and accounts receivable process; and determining payroll expenses and taxes. Active learning ensures that students continually focus on the technical and interpersonal skills necessary to prepare them for the workplace. In addition, students will evaluate the roles and qualifications required for specific accounting careers so they can identify opportunities of interest to them.

Accounting I is a full-year intermediate Career and Technical Education course applicable to programs of study in the Finance or Business Management and Administration career clusters. This course is built to state and national CTE standards. Students who successfully complete the course will be prepared to pursue certifications such as Associate in Regulation and Compliance, Certified Management Accountant, or Certified Quality Auditor.

World Geography A/B
In an increasingly interconnected world, equipping students to develop a better understanding of our global neighbors is critical to ensuring that they are college and career ready. These semester-long courses empower students to increase their knowledge of the world in which they live and how its diverse geographies shape the international community. Semester A units begin with an overview of the physical world and the tools necessary to explore it effectively. Subsequent units survey each continent and its physical characteristics and engage students and encourage them to develop a global perspective.

HIgh School Career Discovery
In this course, you will explore your own strengths, interests, and preferences and use that information to uncover the best career for you! You will explore 17 career clusters, learn about the skills needed to work in different industries, and choose a path to pursue. You’ll build a plan to get you from high school to your first day on the job, and craft a strong portfolio to land your perfect job. You’ve dreamed about your future career. Now it’s time to create a plan and turn that dream into a goal!

Business and Information Technology A
Business and Information Technology focuses on building a solid foundation of business and information technology knowledge. Topics include entrepreneurship, marketing, product design, digital citizenship, and computer basics. In addition, the course explains how to create a personal profile by evaluating personal values, interests, and aptitudes. It also explains how to create a career plan. Finally, it covers how to create an electronic portfolio and conduct a job search in a specific area of interest within the business and information technology industries. 
Lesson Activities, Unit Activities, and a Course Activity help students develop and apply durable skills such as critical thinking, written communication skills, and creativity. A Course Project focuses on helping students develop additional durable skills such as goal setting, planning, and entrepreneurship. Videos and interactive content included in the lessons keep students engaged and make technical concepts easy to understand. The end-of-semester test helps students reinforce their understanding of key concepts.

Mythology and Folklore
This one-semester course is intended for you to familiarize yourself with various myths, legends, and folklore from around the world. You will describe myths related to the creation of the world, the natural elements, and the destruction of the world. You will identify the main characters of various dynastic dramas, love myths, and epic legends and describe their journeys. 

Business Applications
Business Applications prepares students to succeed in the workplace. Students begin by establishing an awareness of the roles essential to an organization's success, and then work to develop an understanding of professional communications and leadership skills. In doing so, students gain proficiency with word processing, email, and presentation management software.
 
This course allows students to explore careers in business while learning skills applicable to any professional setting. Through a series of hands-on activities, students will create, analyze, and critique reports, letters, project plans, presentations, and other professional communications. Regular engagement in active learning ensures students can continually refine the skills necessary to prepare them for work. In addition, students will evaluate the qualifications required for specific careers so they can identify opportunities that are of interest to them.
Business Applications is an introductory level Career and Technical Education course applicable to programs of study in business, management, and administration; information technology; and other career clusters. This course is built to state and national standards. Students who successfully complete the course can go on to obtain the Microsoft® Office Specialist: Microsoft® Office Word certification.*
*Microsoft is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.
This updated course was originally created for Apex Courses and is now available in Courseware.

Nutrition and Wellness
This course will cover basic knowledge about nutrition and wellness such as basic concepts of nutrition, the digestive and metabolic processes, nutrient requirements, dietary guidelines, importance of physical fitness, community health issues, food managements, and careers in the field of nutrition and wellness.
 
Creative Writing
Creative Writing is an English elective course that focuses on the exploration of short fiction and poetry, culminating in a written portfolio that includes one revised short story and three to five polished poems. Students draft, revise, and polish fiction and poetry through writing exercises, developing familiarity with literary terms and facility with the writing process as they study elements of creative writing. 
Elements of fiction writing explored in this course include attention to specific detail, observation, character development, setting, plot, and point of view. In the poetry units, students learn about the use of sensory details and imagery, figurative language, and sound devices including rhyme, rhythm, and alliteration. They also explore poetic forms ranging from found poems and slam poetry to traditional sonnets and villanelles.
In addition to applying literary craft elements in guided creative writing exercises, students engage in critical reading activities designed to emphasize the writing craft of a diverse group of authors. Students study short stories by authors such as Bharati Mukherjee and Edgar Allan Poe, learning how to create believable characters and develop setting and plot. Likewise, students read poetry by canonical greats such as W. B. Yeats and Emily Dickinson as well as contemporary writers such as Pablo Neruda, Sherman Alexie, and Alice Notley. Studying the writing technique of a range of authors provides students with models and inspiration as they develop their own voices and refine their understanding of the literary craft. 

By taking the Creative Writing course, students find new approaches to reading and writing that can affect them on a personal level, as the skills they gain in each lesson directly benefit their own creative goals. Students who are already actively engaged writers and readers learn additional tools and insight into the craft of writing to help them further hone their skills and encourage their creative as well as academic growth. 
This course is built to state standards and informed by the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) standards.

Introduction to Astronomy
Introduction to Astronomy is a one-semester course that is designed to enable students to learn the basics of astronomy. The course begins with coverage of the history of astronomy from ancient times to modern times. Students then learn to identify the movements of the Sun, Moon, planets, and stars across the sky and to describe the formation of the solar system and the role of the Sun and Moon in the solar system. The course goes on to cover the causes of seasons on Earth and why Earth can sustain life. The course culminates in a study of the stars, galaxies, and the Milky Way, various theories of cosmology, and advantages and disadvantages of space exploration. The target audience for this course is high school students.

Sociology
In the Sociology course, students will explore the evolution of sociology as a distinct discipline while learning about sociological concepts and processes. They will learn how the individual relates to and impacts society. Students will also learn about the influence of culture, social structure, socialization, and social change on themselves and others. The course combines a variety of content types, including lessons, activities, and discussions to engage learners as the discover sociology as a subject and as a career.