Forsyth High School Course Guide

2020-2021
​

Panther Graduation Requirements 

Subject Area Units of Credit

English 4.0

Math 3.0

Science 3.0

Social Studies 3.0

Physical Education 1.0

Fine Art 1.0

Practical Art 1.0

Health 0.5

Personal Finance 0.5

Electives 8.0

Total Credits Required: 25

*All students must take the End of Course examinations in English II, Algebra I, Biology, and
Government. All students must PASS the US and MO Constitution tests.

To earn the advanced diploma students shall meet the above requirements as
well as:
● Students must earn ​28​ credits (7 credits are possible each regular school year)
● Science credits must come from- physical science, biology, chemistry, or physics
● Math credits must include Algebra I and above (Geometry, Alg II, Alg III, College
Algebra, Trig, or Calc) 4 yrs of math is encouraged
● 2 credits of foreign language (must be in the same language)
● 2 credits of advanced electives from English, Social Studies, Math, Science, or
Foreign Language
● Maintain a 3.0 or higher GPA in English, Social Studies, Math and Science
 Communication Arts

Course Title: English I

Credit: 1
Grade: 9 Prerequisites: None

Course Description: English I will introduce students to the world of English by focusing on
literature, grammar, and writing. Students will have opportunities to increase comprehension and
analyze the different types of literature by reading a variety of fiction and non-fiction materials.
Students will explore the grammatical elements of the parts of speech, the parts of the sentence,
and phrases. Finally, throughout the year students will work to improve writing skills by working
on writings, paragraphs, and research papers.

*Honors English I covers the same material, but at an accelerated pace and in more depth.
Students are held to a higher expectation regarding quality of work.

Course Title: English II

Credit: 1
Grade: 10 Prerequisites: English I

Course Description: In English II, the topics of grammar and parts of speech, sentences, and
phrases are covered. Poetry and Shakespeare will be read and discussed along with novels from
the genres of historical, gothic horror, contemporary, classic, and dystopian. The procedures and
processes for researching and supporting a topic/idea are explored.

*Honors English II covers the same material, but at an accelerated pace and in more depth.
Students are held to a higher expectation regarding quality of work

Course Title: English III

Credit: 1
Grade: 11 Prerequisites: English II

In English III, students will explore American literature starting from earliest settlers through the
decades to today. We will travel the timeline of America looking at the different genre including
short stories, novels, poetry, plays, non-fiction, informational texts, historical documents and
speeches. We will be working together to increase the student’s skills in reading, writing,
researching, analyzing and communicating in a variety of different methods.

*Honors English III covers the same material, but at an accelerated pace and in more depth.
Students are held to a higher expectation regarding quality of work
Course Title: English IV
Credit: 1
Grade: 12 Prerequisites: English III

The purpose of this course is to prepare senior students for college level reading comprehension
and writing. Students will learn how to locate, evaluate, and organize information as well as to
communicate and defend that information. The emphasis in writing will explore different ways
that writers generate and express ideas for various purposes to various kinds of audiences.
Students will learn how to write in MLA and APA format.

 Course Title: Mythology

Credit: 1/2
Grade: 12 Prerequisites: English I, II, III

Course Description: Mythology is a semester long course in which students will get an overview
of Greco-Roman Mythology. The course will cover information from how the myths began to why
they ended. The focus will be on the gods, heroes, monsters, and tales that make up the body of
this historical/literary world. This class is designed to be a college preparatory course and is
writing intensive.

 Course Title: Creative Writing

Credit: 1/2
Grade: 12 Prerequisites: English I, II, III

Course Description: Creative Writing is a semester long course in which students will work to
produce various types of writing. Students will learn about and write their own descriptive
critique, short story, poetry packet, political cartoon, scrapbook page, Greco-Roman myth, and
journal entries. Students will culminate a portfolio of all writings at the end of the semester.

 Course Title: Contemporary Literature

Credit: ½
Grade: 12 Prerequisites: English III
Course Description: This course is designed to enable students to accurately analyze and interpret
literature and improve reading comprehension skills. Through key concepts of literary analysis,
students will be challenged by works in contemporary literature to evaluate conventions of literary
style, apply key literary terms and concepts to their literary analysis, develop skills in utilizing
literary synthesis and application to their reading, improve non-fiction reading for understanding,
and by incorporating fictional literature from more modern authors, student engagement will
expand student literary appreciation.
Course Title: Written Communications
Credit: 1/2
Grade: 12 Prerequisites: English III

This senior level course is designed to prepare students for success as an effective communicator
once they have graduated from high school. The aim of this course is to prepare students for any
venue they may pursue after high school. Reading and writing are essential elements of this
course. Students will learn how to be an effective communicator on paper, electronically, etc. as
well as sound professional for communications in the workplace.

 CourseTitle: Dual Credit English

HS Credit: 1 College Credit: 6
Grade: 12 Prerequisites: English III and 18 on English ACT

Course Description: ​In the course of College English I (ENG 110), we cover the topics of
critical reading and writing skills. The emphasis in reading has students locating,
evaluating, and synthesizing information in an analytical and ethical manner. The
emphasis in writing develops students' understanding of the ways writers generate and
express ideas of different purposes to various kinds of audiences across a range of
context, including social, academic, and professional. Students work on argumentation,
rhetorical analysis, and editing for clarity, style, and conventions

In the course of College English II (ENG 210), we cover the topics of writing and research
of various disciplinary fields of study; experience with integrating and applying academic
forms to specific problems and situations. Includes the study of ways knowledge is made
and expressed in various disciplines.
*Each semester of dual credit through MSU will cost $70 per credit hour. The total per semester
will be $210. Students on free/reduced lunch have the cost of the course waived. All students will
be responsible for purchasing the required text material.
 Math
 Course Title: Pre-Algebra
Credit: 1
Grade: 9 Prerequisites: none

In Pre-Algebra, students will learn a basic introduction to Algebraic functions. Topics covered will
include positive and negative numbers, rational numbers, solving equations, geometric figures,
ratio, proportion, and percent, problem solving, equations and inequalities, the coordinate plane,
and area and volume. This course will prepare students to take Informal Geometry, and then
Informal Algebra I.

 Course Title: Informal Geometry

Credit: 1
Grade: 10 Prerequisites: Pre-Algebra

Course Description: In this course students will learn about the language of geometry (basic
definitions, rules, and properties). Students will apply the language of geometry to solving
problems. Topics covered will include parallel and perpendicular lines, congruence, triangle
relationships, quadrilaterals, similarity, proportions, right triangles, trigonometry, transformations,
symmetry, measurement with 2-D and 3-D figures, and probability.

 Course Title: Informal Algebra I

Credit: 1
Grade: 11 Prerequisites: Inf. Geometry

Informal Algebra I is designed for students who have previously taken pre-algebra and informal
geometry. This course covers the content of formal Algebra I, but with more hands-on applications
and with the goal of preparing students for the math portion of the ACT. This course will not
cover the Algebra I content as in depth as formal Algebra I.

 Course Title: Formal Algebra I

Credit: 1
Grade: 9 Prerequisites: 8th grade teacher
recommendation

Algebra I is designed to prepare students for continued studies in mathematics and the sciences.
As a foundational mathematics course for students on the college track, Algebra I offers a solid
foundation of application and theory. Contents include numbers and operations; problem solving
using algebraic formulas; solving and interpreting functions; graphing linear, quadratic, and
exponential equations; and understanding and calculating data and probability.
 Course Title: Formal Geometry
Credit: 1
Grade: 10 – 11 Prerequisites: Algebra I

Course Description: In this course students will learn at an excelled pace about the language of
geometry (basic definitions, rules, and properties). Students will apply the language of geometry to
solving problems. Topics covered will include parallel and perpendicular lines, congruence,
triangle relationships, quadrilaterals, similarity, proportions, right triangles, trigonometry,
transformations, symmetry, measurement with 2-D and 3-D figures, and probability.

 Course Title: Applied Algebra *NEW*

Credit: 1
Grade: 11-12 Prerequisites: Algebra I

Course Description: Applied Algebra is designed to be a 3rd math credit for juniors after taking
geometry, or a 4th credit for seniors after taking informal algebra I. This course focuses on
reinforcing algebraic concepts, procedures, and formulas utilizing practical and real life
applications.

 Course Title: Algebra II

Credit: 1
Grade: 11 – 12 Prerequisites: Algebra I & Formal Geometry
Course Description: Algebra II lays the groundwork for upper level math and will help to prepare
students for math courses in college. Topics included will be quadratic functions and factoring,
polynomials and polynomial functions, rational exponents and radical functions, exponential and
logarithmic functions, rational functions, data analysis and statistics, and quadratic relations and
conic sections.

 Course Title: Algebra III

Credit: 1
Grade: 12 Prerequisites: Geometry, Algebra II
Course Description: In the course of Algebra III, we cover the topics of polynomial functions;
logarithmic functions; systems of inequalities; and sequences and probability. We also discuss
mathematical relevancy and application. This course is for students who want to take a 4th year of
math, but do not wish to take a dual credit math course. This course will prepare students for
college algebra.
 Course Title: College Algebra (Math 130)
Credit: ½
Grade: 11 – 12 Prerequisites: Algebra II and 3.0 GPA
This is a standard course in college level algebra. Topics include properties of functions;
polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic functions and their graphs; and conic sections. MTH
130 is currently an online course through OTC with the supervision of a math teacher at Forsyth.
* Note: Not all colleges will allow this course to transfer as a math credit. Be sure to check with the
college that you are interested in attending. The cost of this course is $180.

 
Course Title: Trigonometry
Credit: ½
Grade: 11 – 12 Prerequisites: Geometry, Algebra II,
In the course of Trigonometry, we cover the topics of basic trigonometric functions; right triangles;
radian measure and circular functions; trigonometric identities; inverse trigonometric functions;
oblique triangles; and vectors.

 Course Title: Pre-Calculus

Credit: 1
Grade: 12 Prerequisites: Geometry, Algebra II
This course is designed to prepare students for calculus. Topics include polynomial, rational,
radical, exponential, logarithmic and trigonometric functions, analytic trigonometry, vectors and
limits. This is an upper level math course that should be taken by students who want to pursue
math/science related fields after high school.
 Science
 Course Title: Physical Science
Credit: 1
Grade: 9 Prerequisites: None
In physical science, students will develop a background in science that will help them to be
successful in their future. Topics covered will include the stages of matter, atomic theory,
chemical bonds, balancing chemical equations, the periodic table, magnetism, electricity, genetics,
evolution, modern cell theory, physics, and simple machines.

 Course Title: Biology I

Credit: 1
Grade: 10 Prerequisites: physical sci
This course includes a study of living organisms and vital processes. Themes that will be covered
in this course include scientific skills, ecology, biochemistry, cellular processes, genetics,
evolution, classification of organisms, as well as plant and human body systems. The course
includes laboratory experiments designed to reinforce course content.

 Course Title:Biology II
Credit: 1
Grade: 11 – 12 Prerequisites: Biology I
Biology II covers the basics of human anatomy and physiology including anatomical terminology,
basic biochemistry, cells and tissues, and the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous,
endocrine, cardiovascular, lymphatic/immune, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive
systems. This course introduces the common human disease processes. Students will leave
prepared for anatomy and physiology courses in post-high school health care programs.

 Course Title: Chemistry

Credit: 1
Grade: 11 – 12 Prerequisite: Physical Science & Algebra I
In the course of Chemistry , we cover the topics the periodic table; atomic mass; element
symbols; atomic models and its components. We also discuss mole mass relationships;
property of matter; balancing equations; different chemical reactions; solutions and their
properties; and chemical nomenclature. Also, this course covers the procedures and techniques
of proper laboratory behavior and skills.

 Course Title: Earth Science

Credit: 1
Grade: 11 – 12 Prerequisites: Biology
In the course of ​Earth Science​, we cover the topics of all aspects and components concerning the
ecology, ecosystem and bionetwork of Missouri’s rivers, streams and lakes. We also discuss the
invertebrates in Missouri water systems and the geology and topography of Missouri’s landforms.
 Social Studies
 Course Title: American History
Credit: 1
Grade: 10 Prerequisites: None
The purpose of this course is to empower students to understand the economic, political and social
development of the United States within the time frame of our history from Reconstruction to the
present. This will be done by examining connections to the past in order to prepare for their future
as participating members of a democratic society. Students will use knowledge pertaining to
history, geography, economics, political processes, religion, ethics, diverse cultures, and
humanities to solve problems in the “real world.” Topics covered will include the Development of
the Industrial United States, Emergence of the Modern United States, the Modern United States in
Prosperity and Depression, World War II, Postwar United States, and more.

 Course Title: World History

Credit: 1
Grade: 10 Prerequisites: American History
Course Description: This course will provide students with knowledge of the World’s History and
will include political, social, and cultural change as well as the emergence of world religions,
global trade, and the causes and global consequences of war. Topics covered will include, but are
not limited to the age of revolution, the English, American, and French Revolution, Napoleon’s
empire, the age of industry, democracy and reform, reaction and nationalism, World War I, World
War II, the Cold War, and the contemporary world.

 Course Title: Government

Credit: 1
Grade: 11-12 Prerequisites: World History

This course will provide students with knowledge of the American system of government and will
include studies of the foundations, structure, and role of the government in their lives as well as
their role in American government and society. Topics covered will include state and local
government, basic principles of American government, structure of government, historical
foundations, civic participation, congressional and presidential elections, the legislative branch
and lawmaking process, the presidency and executive branch, and the supreme court and
individual rights. Students must pass the MO and US Constitution exams.
 Course Title: Missouri History (Fall)
Credit: 1
Grade: 11 - 12 Prerequisites: None

Students will learn about the economic, political, and social development of Missouri within the
context of our history. This will be done by examining connections to the past in order to prepare
for their future as participating members of a democratic society. Students will use knowledge
pertaining to history, geography, economics, political processes, religion, ethics, diverse cultures,
and humanities to solve problems in the “real world.”

 Course Title: World Geography (Spring)

Credit: 1
Grade: 11 - 12 Prerequisites: None

In the course of World Geography, we cover the topics involving the physical and human aspects
of geography. Topics include: tools of geography and a look at the earth’s changing surface,
weather, climate, vegetation, and the oceans. The student will leave this course with knowledge of
major political and physical features of the world.

 Course Title: Contemporary Issues (Spring)

Credit: ½
Grade: 11 – 12 Prerequisites: None

Students will research, discuss, debate, and formulate opinions on a series of historical and
currently relevant issues in the United States and the world from 1945 - present. Students will stay
up to date on current events actively viewing CNN Student News and maintaining a journal with
responses.

 Course Title: Innovation and Invention in History (Fall) *NEW*

Credit: ½
Grade: 11 – 12 Prerequisites: None

Innovation and Invention will explore the history of various subjects in science, technology, and
engineering. Topics for the course will include communication, transportation, energy,
military/defense, space, and agriculture among others. Direction for the course will be determined
using student input and interest.
 Course Title: Psychology (Fall)
Credit: ½
Grade: 11 – 12 Prerequisites: None

This course focuses on individual behavior and explores why an individual thinks, feels, and
reacts to certain stimuli. Students will examine how the brain works, altered states of
consciousness, and classical conditioning. Other topics covered could include memory,
motivation, psychological disorders, social cognition, social interaction, and serial killers case
studies.

 Course Title: Sociology (Spring)

Credit: ½
Grade: 11 – 12 Prerequisites: None

This is an introductory course into the science of group influence on human behavior. What is
culture, and why is it important? What influences a child? Why do people commit crime? What
makes class distinction and class inequality? Why are education and religion important? These
topics are examined and discussed, along with socialization, deviance and self control, racial and
ethnic relations, and cults.

Health / Physical Education

 Course Title: Health (Required)
Credit: ½
Grade: 9-12 Prerequisites: None

This course is required by the state of Missouri for graduation. In Health, students will explore the
three areas of health (mental, social, physical) and learn to balance them. Topics covered will
include, but are not limited to, healthy and balanced eating, proper exercise and activity levels,
body systems, and sexual health education.

 Course Title: Physical Education

Credit: 1
Grade: 9 - 12 Prerequisites: None
Students in this course will acquire a respect and understanding for rules and strategies for a
variety of team sports. In addition, the student will learn the importance of sportsmanship to
facilitate the performance and effectiveness of the team. The student will actively participate in
and acquire proficiency, skills, and knowledge in team sports and other fitness related activities.
Class activities may include basketball, baseball/softball, volleyball, pickleball, flag football,
ultimate frisbee, and overall fitness related activities.

 Course Title: Lifetime Cardio

Credit: 1
Grade: 9 – 12 Prerequisites: None

This is a physical education course in which the focus will be cardiovascular related with an
emphasis on lifetime fitness. Students will be expected to participate in all daily activities.
Throughout the course activities such as walking, running, aerobics, kickboxing, zumba, yoga, and
more will take place. Students will eventually plan and be responsible for their own fitness unit.

 Course Title: Weight Lifting

Credit: ½-1
Grade: 10 – 12 Prerequisites:

Weight Lifting will focus on the development of aerobic and anaerobic conditioning and fitness.
Students will participate in both individualized and group outcome-based workouts. This class
includes, but is not limited to, the use of weight training, plyometrics, and cardiovascular training.
*This year we are going to try to have an all girls weights hour in which the focus and class
experience will be the same as other weights hours.

 Course Title: Advanced Team Sports

Credit: ½-1
Grade: 10 – 12 Prerequisites: Coach’s permission

This is an ADVANCED physical education course. Students taking this course will be admitted
only with a coach’s permission. Students in this course will be held to a high standard and are
expected to fully participate in daily activities with a high degree of athleticism. There will be an
emphasis on strength and conditioning, as well as skill work in various team sports.

Fine Arts
 Course Title: Art Foundations
Credit: 1
Grade: 9 - 12 Prerequisites: None
Course Description: In the course of Art Foundations students will be introduced to different
media and artistic styles. Students will learn and practice the fundamental skills needed for
successful art making. This will be the prerequisite for any other art class if students have not
taken Art I in previous years.

 Course Title: Drawing

Credit: 1/2
Grade: 10 – 12 Prerequisite: Art I or Foundations

Course Description: In the drawing course, students will learn and develop different drawing
techniques. Students will also learn how to incorporate and utilize drawing into different medias
and styles of art.

 Course Title: Painting

Credit: 1/2
Grade: 10 - 12 Prerequisites: Art I / Found

Course Description: In this course, painting students will learn and develop different painting
techniques. They will use a variety of types of paint and will be taught to create multiple styles of
art.

 Course Title: 3 Dimensional Studies

Credit: 1
Grade: 10 - 12 Prerequisites: Art I / Found

Course Description: In 3D Studies, students will learn to plan and construct various 3 dimensional
artworks. Students will become efficient in using a wide array of sculptural, ceramic, and mixed
medias. Students will become familiar with working in different spaces and with a multitude of
tools.

 Course Title: Advanced Art

Credit: 1
Grade: 11 - 12 Prerequisites: Art I & Art II
Course Description: In Advanced Art, students are given the opportunity to create their own series
of artwork to show and sell at a public gallery. Students will practice being professional artists
through developing their own themes, choosing their own materials, and developing their personal
styles. Students taking this course must have done well in prerequisite art classes. They should be
serious about enhancing their art and possibly pursuing a career in this field.

  Course Title: High School Band

Credit: 1
Grade: 9 – 12 Prerequisites: None

This class is a continuation of study of instrumental music for students who have completed 6th
grade band. There will be an emphasis on marching band in the Fall, and in the Spring the band
will focus on concert, jazz, and pep band literature. Band students will be expected to perform in
parades, show competitions, football and basketball games, concerts, and festivals. Students will
increase in knowledge in music reading, rhythm accuracy, staff notations, and sight-reading.

 Course Title: Music Appreciation

Credit: 1
Grade: 9 – 12 Prerequisites: None

Music Appreciation is for students who wish to fulfill their fine art credit, but
do now wish to be in a performance class. The purpose of the class is to create an awareness and
appreciation for music expression. Emphasis will be on studying elements of music and studying
different styles of music. The class will study different periods in music history. Students will be
required to listen to all styles of music and analyze the characteristics they hear. Students will be
expected to recognize various composers from each time period.

 Course Title: Shake, Rattle, & Roll Percussion: Drumming Around the World
Credit: 1
Grade: 9 – 12 Prerequisites: None
This class requires NO previous experience on any musical instrument and is open to ALL
students in grades 9-12. Students will learn the basics of playing percussion instruments from the
United States, as well as Africa, Brazil, Guatemala, Cuba, and Latin America in general. Basic
sticking patterns and techniques will be taught and put into practices using different grooves
throughout the world.

 Course Title: Beginning Ukulele

Credit: 1
Grade: 9 – 12 Prerequisites: None
Course Description: This class introduces the basic playing techniques of the Ukulele. No prior
experience on the instrument is required. All students will be taught from square one. Ukuleles
will be provided for the class, but students are welcome to bring their own if they have one. This
is open to all grade levels and will count as a fine art credit. Try out this new class option!

 Course Title: Select Choir

Credit: 1
Grade: 9 – 12 Prerequisites: Tryouts
In select choir, students will increase in the technical knowledge of music reading in such areas as
tonal and rhythmic elements, features of staff notations, and sight singing. The student will learn to
use correct choral techniques such as breath control, placement of tone, diction, and voice
projection. Students will be graded upon daily participation, written assignments, and singing
performances. Students will be expected to attend various performances in and out of school.

 Course Title: Theatre Arts

Credit: 1
Grade: 10-12 Prerequisites: English I
Theatre Arts is an introductory course to theatre with a fine arts emphasis. Students learn blocking
language and the parts of a stage before they can begin acting. Acting techniques will require
students to memorize selections from scripts that will be performed in class. Students will also
receive introductory knowledge of set and costume design. During the first semester, a full-length
play is cast, blocked, rehearsed, and acted out in a nightly performance on the stage in the
Performing Arts Center. This play takes up most of the semester; however, during this time,
students must keep up with their syllabus. Throughout each semester, this involves reading and
writing about various plays, creating characters, creating set designs, blocking parts of scripts,
performing “improve,” and many other projects that prepare the students for their final at the end
of the second semester.
 Practical Arts
 Course Title: FACS I
Credit: 1
Grade: 9 - 12 Prerequisites: none

This course is an instructional program that prepares individuals for basic aspects of living. FACS
I will instruct students in nutrition, food preparation, housing issues that include budgeting and
creative situation decorating, relationships, child development and resource management.

Course Title: Housing & Human Environments (Spring)

Credit: ½
Grade: 9 - 12 Prerequisite: none

This course is an instructional program that describes the study of the behavioral, social,
economic, functional, and aesthetic aspects of housing, interiors, and other build environments.
This includes instruction in analyzing, planning, designing, furnishing, and equipping residential
work and leisure spaces to meet user needs and the study of related public policies.

 Course Title: Family and Individual Health (Fall)

Credit: 1/2
Grade: 9 - 12 Prerequisites: None

In the course of Family and Individual Health, it is designed to prepare individuals to understand
the related aspects of health and wellness with special emphasis on nutrition, emotional health
and physical health; the relationship of the health of an individual to the wellness of the family;
the prevention of illness; and the basic care of the ill, including the elderly, the young child and
individuals with disabilities.

 Course Title: Child Development

Credit: 1
Grade: 10 - 12 Prerequisites:

This course involves the study of the intellectual, social, emotional, and biological
development of children and the planning and design of related human services. Includes
instruction in parent-child relations; Parenting practices; special needs of children; parental and
environmental influences on child development; external support services; and related public
policy issues.
 Course Title: Nutrition and Wellness
Credit: ½ (Spring)
Grade: 11-12 Prerequisites:

Nutrition and Wellness is designed to prepare individuals to understand the principles of nutrition;
the relationship of nutrition to health and wellness; the selection, preparation and care of food;
meal management to meet individual and family food needs and patterns of living; food
economics and ecology; optimal use of the food dollar; understanding and promoting nutritional
knowledge and application of related math and science skills

 Course Title: Advanced Child Development (Fall)

Credit: ½
Grade: 11 - 12 Prerequisites:

This course involves the study of the intellectual, social, emotional, and biological
development of children and the planning and design of related human services. Includes
instruction in parent-child relations; Parenting practices; special needs of children; parental and
environmental influences on child development; external support services; and related public
policy issues.

 Course Title: Computer Applications

Credit: ½
Grade: 9-12 Prerequisites: None

Students will learn to create/access, organize, analyze and communicate information using the
computer. This course is designed to teach students how to effectively participate in and contribute
to a technology oriented society. This course will cover fundamental computer concepts as they
relate to personal use of computers, computers in the workplace, and computers in society.
Students will apply knowledge of a computer’s operating system to access, organize, and manage
programs and information. Students will work with word documents, spreadsheets, electronic
communications, and reports/presentations.

 Course Title: Computer Applications (Dual-Credit)

Credit: ½ College Credit: 3
Grade: 9-12 Prerequisites: Computer Apps
Students learn and apply techniques that support critical and creative thinking when solving individual and
public policy problems using information technology. Case studies with applied, real-world examples are
used throughout. Instructional methods include lecture, discussion, demonstration, guided practice, and
technology-supported collaboration. This course is offered through Missouri State University
*To earn college credit, the cost of this course is $210. You may take the course without earning
college credit as well, in which case there will be no payment.
 Course Title: Intro to Computer Science
Credit: 1
Grade: 10-12 Prerequisites: Algebra I (or teacher recommendation)

This is an interactive introductory course for students brand new to programming that teaches the
foundations of computer science using the Python language. This course will also teach students
how to think computationally and solve complex problems. This course is offered through the
Amazon Future Engineer program.

 Course Title: Computer Science Programming I (Fall)

Credit: ½
Grade: 10 -12 Prerequisites: Computer Applications

Computer Science Principles will focus on computational thinking and the tools needed to
analyze, study, and work with large data sets to draw conclusions from trends. This course is
interdisciplinary as students explore how computer software and other technology can be used to
solve problems. It will focus on the ethical implications of technology alongside the mechanical
components. Students will learn Scratch and Processing programming languages. This course is
offered through the Amazon Future Engineer program.

 Course Title: Web Design (Spring)

Credit: ½
Grade: 10-12 Prerequisites: Computer Applications

Web design is designed to provide students with the knowledge and experience to develop
business/marketing websites. Students will learn the basics of web site design, graphics, and
animation in a real production environment. Web pages and web sites will be developed utilizing a
variety of software tools including Adobe Dreamweaver, Photoshop, and Flash.

 Course Title: Ag I
Credit: 1
Grade: 9-12 Prerequisites: none

Course Description: Ag Science I is designed to be a broad spectrum agricultural class covering

many different topics related to soil science, animal science, and the FFA. Along with animal
reproduction and management, the class will spend time covering animal health, breed
identification, feeds and feeding, FFA history, parliamentary procedure, and the science of soils.
Students will be required to memorize and recite the FFA creed. Towards the end of the year,
students will learn how to arc weld and use the oxy/acetylene torch. This is dependent on the
willingness of the class to follow safety procedures.
 Course Title: Ag II
Credit: 1
Grade: 10-12 Prerequisites: Ag I

Course Description: Agriculture Science II is designed to be a Natural Resource based class.

Topics covered will include Wildlife Management and Forestry. Along with these topics, the
course will also incorporate record book and shop activities. Much of the curriculum in this class
can be learned during outdoor lab activities. Participation in outdoor activities is required.

 Course Title: Ag Power

Credit: 1
Grade: 11-12 Prerequisites: Ag II

Course Description: Ag Power will include learning about basic electricity, hydraulics and small
gas engines. Each student will be required to completely disassemble and reassemble a small gas
engine provided for them. Tool identification and uses will be covered as well as AC and DC
power.

 Course Title: Ag Construction

Credit: 1
Grade: 11-12 Prerequisites: Ag II

Course Description: This is a lab based course sharing time with in class activities. Upon
completion of knowledge assessments (test based), students will go to the shop to practice skills
used in the classroom. Once shop tools and tool functions are understood, students will be
required to build a project to completion.

 Course Title: Ag Processing

Credit: 1/2
Grade: 11-12 Prerequisites: Ag II

Course Description: Ag Processing students will learn a multitude of skills. Along with learning
about the Meats Evaluation Career Development event, students will be taught how to prepare,
identify, grade, and finish meat products from beef, pork, and lamb.
 Course Title: Wildlife Management
Credit: 1/2
Grade: 11-12 Prerequisites: Ag II

Course Description: The course of Wildlife Management is designed for students to be

outside as much as possible. Students will evaluate habitat for a number of species including
mammals, birds, and aquatic animals. Carrying Capacity and Conservation will also be
studied in depth. Food plot establishment and management will also be widely covered.

 Course Title: Greenhouse Management

Credit: 1/2
Grade: 11-12 Prerequisites: Ag II

Course Description: The Greenhouse Management class will learn all of the parts involved in
cultivating and marketing plants in a greenhouse. This will involve identification and growing of
many different varieties of vegetable plants and bedding plants. All operations and controls
involved in running a successful greenhouse will be covered in depth, as well as the tools required
to run a successful business using a greenhouse or similar structure.

 Course Title: Advanced Plant Science

Credit: 1/2
Grade: 11-12 Prerequisites: Ag II

Course Description: Advanced Plant Science will be offered as our last course required for the 3 to
1 science credit. This class will cover plant and seed identification of the most common 125 plants
in Missouri. Taxonomy, life cycles and disorders will be a major part of the curriculum. Fertilizer
recommendations and balancing, understanding soil tests, and herbicide and pesticide
recommendations will also be included.
 Electives
 Course Title: Journalism
Credit: 1
Grade: 10-12
Prerequisites: Approval by Instructor Only—Must fill out application

Students will learn various aspects of written and broadcast journalism. They will produce quality
articles and broadcasts to be viewed publicly. This course will include after-school coverage of
events and students will have the responsibility of proper care of the school’s equipment when it is
in their possession. It is our goal to produce news that represents the many student achievements
that sometimes go unnoticed. We will do our best to spread this coverage to all aspects of student
life from sports, to clubs, to student interest stories.

 Course Title: Publications

Credit: 1
Grade: 10-12
Prerequisites: Approval by Instructor Only—Must fill out application

Students will learn various aspects of desktop publishing and production of a quality yearbook.
This course will include after-school coverage of events and students will have the responsibility
of proper care of the school’s equipment when it is in their possession. It is our goal to produce a
book that is not only a quality memory book for our student body but also is respected in the
region as quality work

 Course Title: A+ Tutoring

Credit: ½
Grade: 11-12 Prerequisites: A+ Student in Good Standing

Students must complete 50 hours of tutoring. Students will be placed by the A+ Coordinator in an
elementary or a junior high classroom to complete these hours. Students will be responsible for
logging their time each day and will write a summary reflection at the end of the semester.
Completing these hours in addition to meeting 95% attendance, a 2.5 GPA, and scoring at least
proficient on the Algebra I EOC (or scoring above an 18 on the math portion of the ACT) qualifies
the student to be eligible for the A+ scholarship at participating Missouri colleges.
 Course Title: Personal Finance (REQUIRED)
Credit: ½
Grade: 11 - 12 Prerequisites: None

In this course, required by Missouri for graduation, students will learn money management skills
and the financial planning process. This class will emphasize setting financial goals, successful
careers, budgeting, types of insurance, the time value of money, how credit works and
understanding financial risk. Students engage in activities designed to make a connection between
classroom knowledge and real-life situations.

Course Title: Freshman Enrichment

Credit: 1
Grade: 9

Course Description: In Freshman Enrichment, class time will be devoted to learning study skills,
critical-thinking, organization, and coping techniques. Students will have the opportunity to
complete assigned work from other classes. This is a course to help students with the transition to
high school, and placement is determined by administration.

 Course Title: ROTC I

Credit: 1
Grade: 9 - 12 Prerequisites: None

ROTC I is designed to provide an introduction to both leadership and citizenship. It also exposes
new cadets to personal growth and responsibility and establishes a foundation in military
structure and tradition. Additionally, cadets participate in a healthy physical education program
and are first exposed to the teamwork required in organized drill.

 Course Title: ROTC II

Credit: 1
Grade: 10 – 12 Prerequisites: ROTC I

ROTC II is designed to continue the leadership and citizenship education from ROTC I. During
this course, students receive instruction in General Military Subjects with more structure and
tradition than in ROTC I. Cadets also receive an introduction to the exciting sport of
marksmanship. ROTC II begins a cadet’s orienteering training with map and compass. This unit
also provides additional experiences in personal growth and responsibility, as well as citizenship.
 Course Title: ROTC III
Credit: 1
Grade: 10 - 12 Prerequisites: ROTC II

ROTC III will advance the student’s knowledge of leadership. The class will expand their
knowledge and understanding in all aspects of leadership and provide leadership development
training. Students incorporate a “hands-on” approach to citizenship to include patriotism,
citizenship requirements, civic responsibilities, and national defense. This course provides
information and requires student involvement in physical fitness, social skills, written and oral
communication, and personal finance. Students will learn how to prepare for a career by writing
resumes, filling out job applications, and conducting job interviews. They will conduct a variety of
activities in public/civic service. Some of the general military subjects are land navigation,
customs, courtesies and traditions, marksmanship, military history, and drill and ceremonies.

 Course Title: ROTC IV

Credit: 1
Grade: 10 - 12 Prerequisites: ROTC III

This class will build on what was taught in the three previous leadership
education courses. It will provide students with the opportunity to apply the skills previously
learned. Students will be expected to conduct inspections, submit reports, set the appropriate
example, and provide guidance to younger students and peers to follow. Students in this class will
work together with the teacher(s) to effectively administer the leadership education program.

 Course Title: Drill and Ceremonies Competitive Team

Credit: 1
Grade: 9 - 12 Prerequisites: ROTC I or
Enrolled in II, III,
or IV
This course is an integral part of the Leadership Education program at
Forsyth High School and provides students an opportunity to be part of a precision drill team and
compete against other JROTC units in designated competitions. Within the drill and ceremonies
platoon are regulation, exhibition, and color guard units. Members of the drill team will
participate in several area parades and numerous color guard details throughout the year, to
include the summer months. Students will receive instruction in physical fitness, personal
responsibility, team-building skills, leadership, and, of course, drill and ceremonies.
 Course Title: Marksmanship
Credit: 1
Grade: 9 - 12 Prerequisites: ROTC; tryouts

This course is offered as part of the ROTC program. To take Marksmanship, students must be
enrolled in an ROTC course or have taken an ROTC course. Students will be selected for the
Marksmanship team after completing tryouts (if the number of students who come out exceeds the
maximum that can be on the team). Students will be expected to attend and participate in all
practices and events/competitions.

 Course Title: Spanish I

Credit: 1
Grade: 9 – 12 Prerequisites: None

Spanish I is the Introduction to Spanish and gives students a basic understanding of the
Spanish language through listening, speaking, reading and writing instruction. The
course also provides an understanding of the civilization, culture, and customs of
Spanish-speaking people. The course is designed for beginners.

 Course Title: Spanish II

Credit: 1
Grade: 10 – 12 Prerequisites: Spanish I

The second year in Introductory Spanish continues the introduction of the

grammatical structure in an attempt to give the student an understanding of and ability to use the
language. Besides the emphasis on language skills, the course continues to provide an
understanding of the civilization, culture, and customs of Spanish-speaking people.

 Course Title: Dual Credit Spanish

Credit: 1
Grade: 11 – 12 Prerequisites: Spanish I, II
SPN 101: ​This course is the first part of the introductory sequence in Spanish. Students acquire
Novice Mid-level proficiency in the interpersonal, interpretive, and presentational communicative
modes and begin to explore the cultural perspectives, products, and practices of Spanish-speaking
peoples.
SPN 102: Students continue the work of SPN 101. Students will reinforce Novice Mid-level
proficiency and gain Novice High-level competence in the description above.
*This course is offered through Missouri State University. Students earning college credit will owe
$270 per semester. This can also be taken without earning college credit for no payment.
 Course Title: Teacher’s Aide
Credit: 0
Grade: 12 Prerequisites: Teacher Permission

This is not for credit! As a teacher’s aide, you assist the teacher you are assigned to with
classroom responsibilities- organizing, copying, stapling, bulletin boards, etc. Each teacher may
only have 1 TA, and students may only TA once during the day.

 Course Title: Internship: Exposure, Exploration, & Experience

Credit: 1/2
Grade: 12 Prerequisites: On track for grad.

This is a semester course in which you will be placed at an internship site in the community.
Forsyth High School has partnered with local business/organizations in order to help prepare our
students for the working world after high school, as well as expose students to career options. The
different internship sites will have various jobs for students to learn and complete on site. Students
will be responsible for their own transportation to the internship site from school. Students will
complete an interview with the internship site before the semester begins to ensure the placement
is a good match for both entities.