High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

86
Ventura Unified School District 255 W. Stanley Ave. Suite 100 Ventura, CA 93001 (805) 641-5000 “High School Course Directory” 2013-14 School Year Buena High School El Camino High School Foothill Technology High School Pacific Continuation High School Ventura High School

Transcript of High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

Page 1: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

Ventura Unified School District 255 W. Stanley Ave.

Suite 100

Ventura, CA 93001

(805) 641-5000

“High School Course Directory”

2013-14 School Year

Buena High School

El Camino High School

Foothill Technology High School

Pacific Continuation High School

Ventura High School

Page 2: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified
Page 3: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

Table of Contents

Introduction 1 Course Descriptions………………………. 9

List of High Schools…………………… 1

Board of Education…………………….. 1 Applied Arts – Agriculture…………… 10

District Administration………………… 1

Applied Arts – Business……………….. 11

How to Use this Guide…………………. 2 Applied Arts – Home Economics……… 16

Class Selections………………………... 2

Prerequisites……………………………. 2 Applied Arts – Industrial Technology…. 18

Program Change Policy……………….. 2

Level Changes in a Subject Area and

Dropping a Class………………………. 2

English/Language Arts……………… … 22

English Language Development (ELD)

Program………………………………… 26

Message for Parents………………………. 3

Earning Credit Toward High School

Graduation…………………………....... 3

English Learner (EL) Program Success

Pathways……………………………….. 27

Work Experience………………………. 3

English Learner Development (ELD)

Courses…………………………...……. 28

High School Graduation Requirements…... 4 English and Strategic Reading (ESR)….. 31

California High School Exit

Examination (CAHSEE)………………. 4

English/Language Arts Electives………. 35

Testing Program…………………………... 5 Fine Arts – Drama and Music…………. 38

State Level……………………………... 5

Testing for College…………………….. 5 Fine Arts – Visual……………………… 42

Health Science………………………….. 47

Career Assessments……………………. 6

History/Social Science…………………. 48

Extracurricular and Co-Curricular

Activities/Athletics……………………. 6

Mathematics……………………………. 54

Non-Departmental……………………… 61

Planning for University/College

Admission………………………………… 7

Scholarship Requirements…………….. 8 Physical Education…………………….. 65

Regional Occupational Program (ROP).. 8

Science…………………………………. 67

World Languages………………………. 74

Ventura High School – Pathways………… 82

Four-Year Planning Worksheet…………... 83

Page 4: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

1

Introduction

This High School Course Directory is updated each year and distributed to students when they

register for high school. This directory should provide up-to-date information for parents and

students to use in planning a high school program effectively. All courses may not be offered every

year at each high school listed. The High School Course Directory contains necessary information

relating to all high schools in Ventura Unified School District.

Buena High School (Bulldogs) 5670 Telegraph Road, Ventura, CA 93003

Telephone: (805) 289-1826

Principal: Jesus Vaca

www.venturausd.org/buena.htm

El Camino High School at Ventura College (Eagles)

61 Day Road, Ventura, CA 93003

Telephone: (805) 289-7955

Principal: Cheryl Burns

www.venturausd.org/elcamino.htm

Foothill Technology High School (Dragons) 100 Day Road, Ventura, CA 93003

Telephone: (805) 289-0023

Principal: Joe Bova

www.venturausd.org/foothilltech.htm

Pacific High School (Sharks) 501 College Drive, Ventura, CA 93003

Telephone: (805) 289-7950

Principal: Barbara Boggio

www.venturausd.org/pacific.htm

Ventura High School (Cougars) Two North Catalina St., Ventura, CA 93001

Telephone: (805) 641-5116

Principal: Val Wyatt

www.venturausd.org/ventura.htm

As students select courses for the coming year, it is important to understand that the master schedule

or course offerings are developed based on those selections. Therefore, serious consideration of

choices is a necessity. Developing a plan of study is a combined effort of students, parents, teachers,

counselors and administrators; however, the prime responsibility rests with the student and

parent(s).

Parents and students are encouraged to review this document as part of the course selections process.

Counselors will be happy to assist parents and students in interpreting information contained in this

document during high school registration.

Board of Education

John Walker, President

Mary Haffner, Vice President

Barbara J. Fitzgerald, Member

Velma Lomax, Member

Debbie Golden, Member

District Administration

Dr. Trudy Tuttle Arriaga, Superintendent

Kathy Asher, Assistant Superintendent

Paul Jablonowski, Assistant Superintendent

Joseph Richards, Jr., Assistant Superintendent

Page 5: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

2

How to Use this Guide

This registration guide provides students and parents with information to assist in the student’s

program choices. Students should discuss course selections with their parents, teachers and counselor

before registering. Students are encouraged to enroll in courses that challenge them and provide the

best possible preparation for the future in terms of employment and further education.

Class Selections

Please carefully read this entire registration guide before selecting classes. All students must enroll in

a full academic day. Students should select their required classes first, and then list electives,

including two (2) alternate elective choices. In the event some electives are filled or an insufficient

number of students enroll in a class, students will be enrolled in their alternate choice(s) in the order

listed, if available. Courses are listed by department and program areas. Each course is described by

content and prerequisites. Students must receive prior approval from their school counselor to take a

class off site, including inter-district community college and on-line classes.

Prerequisites

Prerequisites are listed in this Course Directory to help students and parents make the best educational

decision possible. Students must meet the prerequisites to enroll in certain courses. Both semesters of

a prerequisite for a course must be successfully completed and, if required, the stated grade earned.

Program Change Policy

Student initiated requests for class changes are considered only during the first 10 days (15 days at

Foothill Technology High School due to their block schedule) of the semester, are subject to space

availability, and are granted for the following specific reasons:

A. Fulfill graduation requirement

B. Ability level misplacement

C. Completion in summer school

D. Minimum competency preparation

Level Changes in a Subject Area and Dropping a Class

A. Level changes in a subject area except Honors and AP courses can be made during the first

ten weeks of a semester with teacher recommendation, parent and counselor approval.

B. Level changes for Honors and AP courses will not be considered until the 10th

week of the

semester.

C. A student will be allowed to drop a class without penalty of an “F” grade until the 30th

school day of the semester.

D. A student who drops a class between 31st and the 60

th school day with a passing grade will

receive a Withdrawal (“W”) on their transcript next to the class that is dropped. A student

who drops a class between the 31st and 60

th school day and is earning an “F” grade will

receive an “F” on their transcript. Prior to dropping a class, the parent/guardian, teacher,

student, and counselor shall confer to agree the drop is in the best interest of the student.

DROPPING A CLASS BETWEEN THE 31st AND 60

th DAY OF THE SEMESTER

REQUIRES ADMINISTRATIVE APPROVAL.

The administration may, due to increased/decreased enrollment and staff changes, balance course

sections by transferring students from one class and/or teacher to another. Every effort will be made

to ensure a smooth transition. Requests for a teacher change will not be granted.

Page 6: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

3

Message for Parents

Parents are the key element in helping students to be successful in school. This is true both during the

school year and during summer/vacation time. We urge you to:

1. Become familiar with using the online student information service (Q ParentConnect).

Parents can review assignments, grades and attendance online and communicate concerns

with the teacher via email.

2. Stress the importance of attending school each day. Please schedule medical appointments

and family vacations outside of the school day and calendar.

3. Set aside a time and place every day for your student to study, read, write, and/or practice.

Distractions such as television and stereo should be limited.

4. Encourage your student to read the daily newspaper, magazines and/or books.

5. Review Progress Reports, Quarter and Semester Report Cards.

6. Schedule conferences with teachers early each grading period if you have any concerns

regarding your child’s progress.

7. If a problem does arise with the homework, call your son/daughter’s teacher as soon as

possible and seek assistance.

8. Help your son/daughter study before a test or quiz.

9. If you find your son/daughter never seems to have homework, check their agenda. If you

find it lacking entries, this may be the reason. In high school there should be homework

everyday in at least two of his/her classes.

10. Encourage your son/daughter to join and participate in their high schools student clubs and

organizations.

Earning Credit Toward High School Graduation

Credit toward graduation is given for all subjects taken in the 9th

, 10th

, 11th

, and 12th

grade except

those courses repeated to raise the academic grade. Algebra 1, Geometry and World Language may

be taken in middle school to satisfy the college entrance requirement, but is not counted in the credits

toward graduation. Students enrolled in band, choir, leadership, reading, physical education, athletics,

or yearbook may receive credit for each year of successful participation. Students will earn five units

of credit for each semester course completed with the grade of “A”, “B”, “C”, or “D.” No credit is

earned if the student receives a grade of “F.” Credit may also be earned through participation in the

Regional Occupation Program (ROP), Work Experience, College Courses, Adult Education, and

approved on-line courses. Any courses taken before the completion of 8th

Grade, does not count

towards High School Graduation.

Work Experience

The requirements to enroll in Work Experience include:

1. Students must be enrolled in the 11th

grade or higher with at least a 2.0 GPA.

2. No independent contracting or consulting.

3. Direct supervision on the job. Students cannot work alone.

4. Worker’s Compensation coverage.

5. A legally paid job at minimum wage or higher.

6. Verification of work hours by check stubs.

7. Social Security deducted from your wages.

8. A job at a non-residential business, open to public access, at a stationary location (no jobs

within a home).

Page 7: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

4

High School Graduation Requirements

Subject Area Credits

English/Language Arts 40

Mathematics 30

Social Science

Geography

World History/Cultures

United States History

American Government

Economics

Total

5

10

10

5

5

35

Science

Life/Biological Science

Physical Science

Total

10

10

20

World Language or Fine Arts (visual or performing) 10

Health 5

Physical Education 20

Applied Arts 10

Non-departmental/Electives 60

Total Credits Required

230

Credits: For each semester course offering that is completed successfully, five (5) credits of required or elective credits

are earned. To obtain credits an ”A”, “B”, “C” or “D” grade is required. An “F” or a “W” grade receives no credit

towards graduation. Special courses may be offered on a “pass/fail” and credits earned apply toward graduation.

Students occasionally desire to repeat a given academic course to raise their grades. With approval from the counselor,

assistant principal, or principal, a student may repeat a course. Both grades will remain on the transcript. The higher of

the two grades will be used to compute the student’s GPA. Credit, however, will be given for the course only once.

Mathematics - All students must complete Algebra 1 with a passing grade in order to earn a

High School Diploma. Any student who has completed Algebra 1 in seventh or eighth grade

and earned a passing grade will have completed the Algebra 1 High School Graduation

requirement; however, high school credits will not be earned.

The final responsibility for meeting graduation requirements rests with the student and his/her

parents(s)/guardian(s).

Foothill Technology High School requires 75 hours of community service for graduation.

California High School Exit Examination (CAHSEE)

In addition to the course requirements, each student completing grade 12 shall successfully pass the state

exit examination in English Language Arts and Mathematics as a condition of high school graduation

(BP/AR 6146.1). The CAHSEE is given for the first time in the second semester of the 10th

grade, twice

in the 11th

grade and three times in the 12th

grade.

Page 8: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

5

Testing Program

State Level

Students in the 9th, 10

th, and 11

th grade participate in the required STAR statewide testing programs. Students

must pass the California High School Exit Exam (CAHSEE) in English/Language Arts and Mathematics in

order to graduate. Students must also complete all District Graduation Requirements to receive a diploma.

Testing for College

Students planning to attend college should prepare for required entrance exams. Two preparatory pre-entrance

exams are also available to students. “PLAN” is taken during the sophomore year as a preparation for the ACT

and sophomores may also take the PSAT for practice. The PSAT-NMSQT, administered in the fall of the

junior year, is used to identify National Merit Scholar Finalists and serves as a preparation for the SAT

Reasoning Test. The final stage of pre-college testing involves the actual taking of the ACT and/or SAT in the

spring of the junior year. Most four-year colleges require one of these tests for admission and may base

scholarship eligibility on the results. Some colleges require or recommend one or more SAT Subject Tests (see

SAT Subject Tests below). These tests are taken at the end of the subject of choice and/or by the end of 11th

grade. GRADE TEST MONTH CONTENTS

10th PLAN and/or PSAT October (offered only once

during the year) Curriculum Based

English

Math

Reading

Scientific Reasoning

11th

PSAT-NMSQT October (offered only once

during the year) Critical Reading

Writing

Math

11th ACT, SAT Reasoning and

SAT Subject Exams

February-June Same formats as the PLAN (ACT) and

PSAT (SAT)

12th ACT, SAT Reasoning October, November,

December Same formats as the PLAN (ACT) and

PSAT (SAT)

10th

-12th

SAT Subject Tests

These are high school-

level tests, reflecting high

school curricula.

SAT Subject Tests are

generally offered 6 times in

any given school year.

There are 20 Subject Tests

across five general subject

areas: history, mathematics,

science, English and

foreign languages.

Beginning with students applying for the fall

2012 term, SAT Subject Tests may be required or

recommended by the college you are applying to.

Some colleges require or recommended one or

more SAT Subject Tests as part of the

application. Many colleges that don’t require or

recommend Subject Tests will still consider them

when reviewing your application. To find out if

the colleges or universities that you’re interested

in require or recommend SAT Subject Tests go

to the following website.

www.sat.collegeboard.org/about-tests/sat-

subject-tests/why-take-the-test

- Click why take the SAT Subject Tests

- Click how to choose what tests to take

- Click college search

9th

-12th

Advanced Placement

(AP)

The approximate cost for

each AP Exam is

approximately $86. Fee

waivers and/or

scholarships are

available for students.

May -American Government

-Biology

-Calculus - AB, BC

-Computer Science

-Economics

-English - 11th

/ 12th

-Environmental Science

-German Language

-Physics B

-Spanish – Language or Literature

-Statistics

-Studio Art

-U.S. History

Page 9: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

6

Career Assessment

Career assessments and interest inventories are integrated into the curriculum. Students are given the

opportunity to investigate careers based on their indicated interests, aptitudes and abilities. The

ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery) is offered to 11th

and 12th

grade students.

This is a free, comprehensive assessment that helps students develop a better understanding of their

interest, aptitudes and abilities. This test is provided, administered and interpreted by representatives

from our Armed Services. However, it is available to ANY interested student and does not carry any

military commitment.

Extracurricular and Co-Curricular Activities/Athletics

A very important part of a student’s positive attitude toward high school is due to his/her participation

in student activities. All students are encouraged to find an activity or club that is of interest to

him/her. This will help students become involved in the high school environment and assist the

student in making new friends. Toward meeting this goal, each high school sponsors many co-

curricular activities for both boys and girls. Students with an interest in competitive sports are

encouraged to participate in tryouts for the sport(s) of their choice. For students at El Camino High

School or Foothill Technology High School they have the opportunity to participate in athletics at

their boundary school (it is the student’s responsibility to contact the boundary school for tryout

schedules). Questions regarding these activities should be directed to each school’s Athletic Director

or the student’s Counselor. To be eligible to participate in extracurricular and co-curricular activities,

students must demonstrate satisfactory educational progress in the previous grading period including

but not limited to: 1) Maintenance of a minimum of a 2.0 grade point average on a 4.0 scale, 2)

Maintenance of minimum progress toward meeting high school graduation requirements. All students

are allowed ONE probationary period, equal to one quarter in length, beginning with the final grades

earned in the 8th

grade. If at the end of the probationary quarter, the student has not achieved a 2.0

GPA and has not passed a minimum of four (4) core classes during the quarter grading period, s/he

shall be ineligible for the subsequent quarter until s/he achieves 2.0 GPA and passes a minimum of

four (4) core classes.

Co-Curricular Activities:

Band, Cheerleading, Dance/drill Team, Forensics (Speech), Music, Drama, Journalism, Student

Newspaper, Yearbook, ASB Leadership

Athletics:

Sport

Baseball

Basketball

Cross Country

Football

Golf

Soccer

Softball

Swimming

Participants

Boys

Boys/Girls

Boys/Girls

Boys/Girls

Boys/Girls

Boys/Girls

Girls

Boys/Girls

Season

Spring

Winter

Fall

Fall

Spring

Winter

Spring

Spring

Sport

Tennis

Tennis

Track/Field

Volleyball

Volleyball

Water Polo

Water Polo

Wrestling

Participants

Girls

Boys

Boys/Girls

Girls

Boys

Boys

Girls

Boys/Girls

Season

Fall

Spring

Spring

Fall

Spring

Fall

Spring

Winter

Page 10: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

7

Planning for University/College Admission UC/CSU Minimum Entrance Requirements (“a-g” subject requirements)

Subject Requirement: To satisfy the Subject Requirement, students must complete the high school

courses listed below with a “C” grade or better. These courses are known as the “a–g” subjects.

Students must take 15 yearlong classes to fulfill the requirements – seven of which must be taken in the

last two years of high school. To be acceptable to UC/CSU, the courses must appear on a list certified

by the high school principal as meeting the “a-g” subject requirements. For more information please

access the UC website: www.universityofcalifornia.edu or the CSU website: www.calstate.edu

Subjects University of California

California

State

University

Private

Colleges

Community

College

a. Social Science a. 2 years of history required

including:

- 1 year of U.S. History or

½ year of U.S. History and

½ year of American

government

- 1 year of World History

a. (Same

as UC)

Admissions

requirements

will vary at

each private

college or

university

No subject

Requirement

18 years old, or a high school

graduate; or passed the California

High school Proficiency Exam

b. English b. 4 years of college prep English

or higher

b. (Same

as UC)

No subject

Requirement

c. Mathematics c. 3 years required including:

- Algebra 1

- Geometry

- Algebra 2

(4 years recommended)

c. (Same

as UC)

Check the

individual

college

catalogues

for specific

requirements

No subject Requirement –

Completion of Algebra 2 is

highly recommended

d. Science d. 2 years required including:

- 1 year of a biological science

- 1 year of a physical science

(3 years recommended)

d. (Same

as UC)

College prep

subjects are

recommended

No subject

Requirement

e. Foreign Language

e. 2 years of the same language

(3 years recommended)

e. (Same

as UC)

Use the

UC/CSU

requirements

as a guide

No subject

Requirement

f. Visual and

Performing Art

f. 1 year of the same course of a

Visual & Performing Art

f. (Same

as UC)

Use the

UC/CSU

requirements

as a guide

No subject

Requirement

g. Elective Courses g. 1 year of advanced course work

in math, English, science, foreign

language, social science, history,

visual and performing arts.

g. (Same

as UC)

Required Testing SAT Reasoning or ACT with

writing. AND SAT Subject Tests

may be required or recommended

by the college you are applying to.

A.P. & Honors courses are

recommended.

ACT &/or

SAT

Reasoning

(See

individual

college

catalogues or

websites for

requirements)

Matriculation process of

assessment, orientation,

counseling

**It is recommended that all high school students follow the “a-g” requirements when selecting classes.

**The final responsibility for meeting college admission rests with the student and his/her parents(s)/guardian(s).

Page 11: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

8

Scholarship Requirements

The eligibility of high school graduates for admission to a UC/CSU is determined by a combination of the

student’s grade point average (G.P.A.) in the “a-g” subject requirements and the total score on either

the SAT Reasoning or ACT tests. Additionally, all UC’s require the two SAT Subject Exams, which are

college assessment tests. A Community College Course on the IGETC list will receive honors credit.

Applications for the SAT Reasoning and Subject Exams are available at www.collegeboard.com for

SATs, www.act.org for ACT, or in the Media Center. Students will receive an additional grade point for

advanced placement or honors courses taken during high school in courses considered 11th

and 12th

grade

level (see “a-g subject requirements). An “A” will be worth 5 points, a “B” 4 points, and a “C” 3 points.

“D” grades may need to be repeated; see your counselor.

Regional Occupational Program (ROP) Ventura County Schools offers a countywide occupational training program for all high school juniors

and seniors in Ventura County. The ROP training is designed for student desiring marketable, entry-level

skills after high school graduation. Most of the classes are offered at Ventura County School’s Camarillo

Airport facility. However, many classes are offered at other sites in the community and transportation is

provided for most courses (check with your counselor for the exact location of each class). The

counseling staff selects students on a first to apply/first-selected basis. In addition, a student’s prior

attendance record may be a consideration for selection.

Students in the majority of ROP classes will be placed with an employer for further training and

supervised practical experience. During this phase of training, students will have an opportunity to apply

skills they have learned in the classroom. Students will be exposed to the realism of the work

environment in an industry related to their training. Employers indicate that this phase of training is an

essential part of preparing students for employment. Experience has demonstrated that a student’s chance

of obtaining gainful employment is greatly increased by the internship phase of the program.

Because the ROP is a career preparation program, students are not paid while enrolled in class. (Students

receive high school elective credit and on-the-job experience). However, “Cooperative” courses combine

paid employment with weekly classroom instruction to give advanced training to students that have

attained employment.

Listed below are some classes offered by the Regional Occupational Program:

Auto Body/Collision Repair Floral Design

Auto Painting/Refinishing Graphic Design

Auto Service Health Careers

Banking and Finance Medical Assistant

Computer Business and Software Network Technology “Netprep”

Computer Repair and Maintenance Nursing Assistant I & II

Dental Assistant Screen Printing

Diversified Occupations Web Design

Fashion/Retail Merchandising Welding and Manufacturing

In order to register for a ROP class students must see their assigned high school counselor.

Page 12: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

9

Course

Descriptions

Page 13: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

10

Applied Arts – Agriculture

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Environmental

Horticulture

#6531 – S1

#6532 – S2

9 – 10

Year

10 Credits

VHS This is an introductory hands-on course in basic gardening and horticultural

practices. Students will learn the green industry and methods to reduce

global warming and improve the environment. This course replaces

Landscape/Garden/Design.

PREREQUISITE(S): None

Floral Design

(ROP)

#9251 – S1

#9252 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

11 - 12

Year

10 Credits

10th

grade

students

with

teacher

approval

VHS

This is a one-year course for students interested in exploring the vast career

area of horticulture. Students will learn about floral design and floral shop

management, on campus as well as through an eight week internship at a

local floral shop. Students will build a wide variety of large and small floral

designs, learn about financial record keeping, and develop customer service

skills. Students will learn about leadership through the Future Farmers of

America (FFA) Organization. Upon completion of the course work and

internship, students will receive a Certificate of Completion from Ventura

County ROP and can participate in a ROP graduation ceremony.

PREREQUISITE(S): Introduction to Agriculture desirable.

Landscape Design

(ROP)

#9721 – S1

#9722 – S2

11 – 12

Year

VHS This is a one-year course for students interested in the billion dollar industry

called Landscape Horticulture. This is an introductory hands-on study

course in basic gardening and horticultural practices. Students will learn

about Landscape design concepts and will complete landscape maintenance

and installation projects as well as the care and use of the following: tools,

plant nutrition, soils, plant identification, nursery plant production,

greenhouse production, landscape maintenance and installation, irrigation

systems, interior plant design, sports field maintenance, financial record

keeping, and developing customer service skills. Students will learn about

leadership through the Future Farmers of America (FFA) organization.

Upon completion of the course work and internship students will receive a

Certificate of Completion from Ventura County ROP and can participate in

an ROP graduation ceremony.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Introduction to

Agriculture Science

#6511 – S1

#6512 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 12

Year

10 Credits

PHS

VHS

This course is an introductory course in agriculture. Topics such as animal

science, crop science, soil science and food production will be covered.

Students in this course will participate in activities associated with the

Future Farmers of America (FFA) and will do several lab projects where

they will also learn record keeping in association with these projects. This

course can be used to satisfy the Applied Arts graduation requirement.

PREREQUISITE(S): None

Page 14: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

11

Applied Arts – Business

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Accounting

#4654

Not repeatable for

credit

10 - 12

Semester

5 Credits

BHS

Students will learn to establish and maintain a set of accounting records for

a business. Topics covered include the accounting cycle – including the use

of journals, ledgers, and worksheets, preparation of income statements and

balance sheets and the specialized accounting function of payroll. In

addition to the accounting processes, this course includes banking activities,

the use of the 10-key calculator or 10-key pad and computer application of

financial information using Excel. This course is recommended for students

majoring in business and/or interested in starting their own business.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

This course is also listed in the Mathematics Section

Advanced Word

Processing

#4634

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 12

Semester

5 Credits

BHS

VHS

ECHS

This word processing course is designed to enhance computer keyboard

skills and knowledge of workplace documents. Exercises focus on

increasing speed and accuracy to achieve marketable skills. Students learn

desktop publishing and presentation software techniques using Microsoft

Word and PowerPoint. On-the-job simulations are used to expand

workplace applications of keyboarding.

PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Keyboarding/35 wpm.

Broadcast

Journalism I

#4861 – S1

#4862 – S2

10 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

This course will allow students to enter college journalism programs with

the required skills, and be more competitive in these programs. Students

will move from novice to experienced broadcast journalists. They will learn

all aspects of the broadcast journalism, from technical skills to on-air talent

to distribution.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Broadcast

Journalism II

#4871 – S1

#4872 – S2

11 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

This second year course will allow students to enter college journalism

programs with the required skills, and be more competitive in these

programs. Students will gain more experience with broadcast journalism

and electronic media. Students will build on the skills they mastered in

Broadcast Journalism I.

PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Broadcast Journalism I.

Business

Simulations 1

#4574

Not repeatable for

credit

11 - 12

Semester

5 Credits

BHS

Students have the unique opportunity in this course to learn management

and supervision skills by applying to manage one of 15 different businesses

within a simulated community. Students learn to carry out typical daily

activities of running their own business while interacting with all of the

other businesses. Microsoft Office computer skills, cash management,

banking, payroll, hiring practices, business forms, sales, record keeping,

communication techniques, community awareness, and volunteerism are all

encountered in this management training exercise.

PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Keyboarding or Advanced

Word Processing.

Page 15: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

12

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Computer

Applications

#4524

9 - 12

Semester

5 Credits

BHS

ECHS

PHS

VHS

This course is recommended for students who need to master today’s

powerful computer applications for career and college purposes. Units of

instruction include learning Microsoft Office: presentations in PowerPoint,

spreadsheets in Excel, desktop publishing, making a website, and learning to

research the web for investigations of academic and business purposes.

PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Keyboarding.

Computer Graphics

#4544

Not repeatable for

credit

10 - 12

Semester

5 Credits

BHS

VHS

This course will teach the student graphic design skills, digital imaging,

computer illustration, color theory, and rendering of 3D graphics. Projects

will include designing and rendering from desktop publishing to advanced

levels in 3D graphics. Programs used and taught: Photoshop, Image Ready,

Painter, Illustrator, Bryce 5, Fireworks, and Flash.

PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Computer Applications and

instructor’s approval.

AP Computer

Science A

#4551 – S1

#4552 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

10 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

VHS

This yearlong class is a first semester college course. This course is

designed to enable the students to code fluently in a well-structured fashion

using Java language. The student will design and implement computer

based solutions in several application areas. This course prepares the

student for the Computer Science A Advanced Placement Exam. Course

credits can be applied to satisfy the Applied Art Requirement. Students

enrolled in this course are strongly encouraged to take the Advanced

Placement Examination provided by the College Board.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Algebra 2 and/or

Instructor’s approval.

AP Computer

Science AB

#4561 – S1

#4562 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

11 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

This course is designed to be a follow-up to the Computer Science A (AP)

curriculum for those students who took that course at the 10th

or 11th

grade

level. Students will cover the same material in greater depth as well as

cover new, advanced topics not studied in the “A” course. These topics

involve advanced data structures such as stacks, queues and binary trees.

Students enrolled in this course are strongly encouraged to take the

Advanced Placement Examination provided by the College Board.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): “B” or higher grade in Computer Science A (AP)

and/or Instructor’s approval.

Digital Animation

#6151 – S1

#6152 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

10 – 12

Year

10 Credits

FTHS In this course each student will be introduced to the world of animation

through studying the history of animation, its modes of delivery, current

uses, and possible uses for the future. Students will create projects for

personal and artistic purposes as well as creating visual animations and

interactive tools for teachers to use in their teaching lessons. This course is

offered every other year, rotating with Digital Art and Design.

PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Art 1.

Page 16: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

13

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Digital Art and

Design

(Graphic Arts and

Multi-Media)

#4721 - S1

#4722 - S2

Not repeatable for

credit

10 – 12 FTHS This course is an introduction to the use of digital media. Students will

learn the fundamentals of composition and design. Students will develop

portfolios of their work including digital graphics, desktop publishing,

multimedia projects, basic animation, introduction to digital photography

and digital video. The class is structured around exercises designed to teach

the elements and principles of design and projects where students will apply

what they have learned. This course is offered every other year, rotating

with Digital Animation

PREREQUISITE(S): “B” or higher grade in Education in the Digital

Age 1 and the ability to be self-directed.

Economics of

Business

Ownership

#4584

Not repeatable for

credit

12

Semester

5 Credits

BHS

Economics from a “business” and “consumer” point of view is offered in

this class for seniors. All of the Economic Content Standards are addressed

in this course. There are individual and group critical thinking activities,

projects, reports, workbook assignments, and presentations. It is a class

sponsored by Junior Achievement, as a local business consultant

periodically leads the students in learning activities. Guest speakers and

current events enhance the understanding and awareness of local and global

events. This course does not meet the NCAA Clearinghouse Eligibility

Standards.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Education in the

Digital Age

#4701 – S1

#4702 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 12

Year

10 Credits

FTHS

This course is designed for the student with minimal knowledge of or access

to computer systems and provides students with academic proficiency in

system management, basic hardware and software programs. Students learn

keyboarding skills, Internet communication and research tools, basic word

processing, basic multimedia presentation, basic spreadsheet and charting,

and basic data base creation. Students use planning and graphical

organization software and create basic web pages. Digital portfolios will

also be set up during this class and issues of acceptable and ethical use of

computer systems will be discussed. The history and development of the

personal computer and the Internet will also be explored. (This course is a

Graduation Requirement for all Foothill Technology High School

Students).

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Page 17: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

14

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

IC3 Internet &

Computing Core

Certification

#4731 – S1

#4732 – S2

10 – 12

Year

10 credits

ECHS

This course covers not only understanding computing fundamentals, but

also knowledge of applications and proper Internet protocols. This course

also prepares students for three certification exams – Computing

Fundamentals, Key Applications, and Living Online. Knowledge gained

from this class will enable students to prepare for college and job market.

Students will be able to: Identify categories of computers; understand

computer hardware and do minor maintenance and repair; make wise

purchasing decisions; use main, maintain, and repair application software

and problems; set up and maintain a small network; understand and use the

Internet as well as utilize antivirus software; understand the use of

computers in a commerce situation; protect their computer systems from

environmental conditions and hacking.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): Education in the Digital Age I.

Introduction to

Business

#4604

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 10

Semester

5 Credits

BHS

ECHS

Reading, writing, and group presentation skills (including PowerPoint) will

be enhanced with this introductory business class. Many practical business

skills are covered such as banking, saving, investing, verbal and written

communication. A “team” entrepreneurship simulations is the culminating

activity after writing a business plan involving marketing, management, and

operation aspects of business.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Introduction to

Programming

#4534

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 12

Semester

5 Credits

BHS

VHS

This course will introduce the Java programming language to students. This

is a beginning course in programming and no previous programming

experience is required. Sun Microsystem’s latest version of Java 2 will be

used which is the language currently used by programmers worldwide.

Students will be introduced to well-known algorithms and data structures.

The course is designed to be an introductory course but at the same time

prepare the student for the Advanced Placement Computer Science course.

PREREQUISITE(S): “B” or higher grade in Algebra 1 or instructor’s

approval.

Keyboarding

#4501 – S1

#4502 – S2

$4504 - SM

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 12

Semester

5 Credits

BHS

ECHS

PHS

VHS

Students will explore, evaluate, and prepare for practical skills through the

application of basic keyboarding and 10-key knowledge. Students will

reinforce their basic academic and critical thinking skills by applying

theoretical concepts to practical tasks. Upon completion the student will be

skilled at touch-keying and familiar with basic computer operations: be able

to format a report, business letters, demonstrate proper computer techniques,

and accurately proofread their work and key at acceptable speed. This

course is strongly recommended for all students to fulfill technology

requirement.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Page 18: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

15

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Money

Management

#4591 – S1

#4592 – S2

#4594 - SM

Not repeatable for

credit

12

Semester/

Year

5 or 10

Credits

BHS

ECHS

PHS

VHS

Math concepts are stressed in each unit, which helps prepare juniors and

seniors for when they are on their own. This course covers career

exploration and application of that “income” in budgeting, paying and

preparing taxes, check writing and use of credit, investments and wise

choices as a consumer. The purchase of vehicles, insurance, appliances and

other products are discussed. Writing a resume, cover letter, job application

and proper interview techniques are part of the class portfolio. Travel and

vacation planning is presented by groups using PowerPoint and turning in

an individual written report. Math credit may be earned for passing this

course.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

*This course is also listed in the Mathematics Section

Web Design

#4664 – S1

#4674 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 12

Semester/

Year

5 or 10

Credits

BHS

FTHS

VHS

Semester 1 students will learn the fundamentals of web page design, web

site development and site maintenance. Students learn file/folder

management with Adobe Web Development software; naming and

organization schemes; basics of web design and layout; basic HTML code;

integration of CSS/JavaScript/Applets; evaluation and constructive critique

skills; and basic graphic development with Adobe Photoshop. Students

create a digital portfolio of their assignments and projects throughout the

semester for display and presentation.

Semester 2 students continue to develop their knowledge of concepts

relating to web page design and development. Students will also create

basic animations and interactive web sites using Flash, a professional level

animation program. Basic action scripting in Flash is also included.

Students integrate their knowledge of the above programs with their skills in

Photoshop as they continue development of complex web graphics and

layouts using Fireworks. Students continuously create web-based projects

utilizing new skills and add these to their digital portfolio.

PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Keyboarding or Computer

Applications. “B” or higher grade in Education in the Digital Age I

(FTHS) or Instructor’s approval.

Page 19: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

16

Applied Arts - Home Economics

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Child Development

#5542

Not repeatable for

credit

11 - 12

Semester

5 Credits

BHS

ECHS

PHS

VHS

The student will learn about family planning, prenatal development,

labor and delivery. The care of the baby includes feeding, bathing,

dressing and other daily routines. Children’s health and parent’s health

are also included. Students will cover the value of discipline, play, and

preschool, and include the mental, emotional, physical, and social

growth and development of the child from birth to age five. Students

will develop skills that will be utilized in careers dealing with children.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Clothing 1A

#5504

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 12

Semester

5 Credits

BHS

Students will learn basic clothing techniques by constructing a very basic

garment learning proper pattern selection, line selection, cutting, pattern

layout, and construction technique. The majority of class time is spent in

actual clothing construction.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Clothing 1

#5501 – S1

#5502 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

ECHS

Students will concentrate on constructing suitable and well-fitting

garments, utilizing the latest construction techniques. The majority of

class time is spent in actual clothing construction.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Clothing 2

#5511 – S1

#5512 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

10 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

In clothing , the student will further develop the basic skills acquired in

Clothing 1: cutting, fitting, and techniques utilized in the construction of

the individual garment. During the year the student will concentrate on

tailoring principles as they construct garments such as suits, coats and

tailored dresses.

PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Clothing 1 or Teacher

Approval.

Foods and

Nutrition

#5521 – S1

#5522 – S2

#5524 - SM

10 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

ECHS

VHS

Students will learn the basic fundamentals of food planning, preparation

and presentation and the care of food by participation in research,

projects and hands-on training in the kitchen. Students learn a variety of

cooking techniques, terms, measurement, safety and sanitation rules,

nutritional values of foods and health benefits of good eating. Proper use

of kitchen equipment and appliances and time management concepts are

discussed and practiced. Nutrition and balance are stressed as students

plan and create meals during class time.

PREREQUISITE(S): “B” or higher grade in Foods 1A.

Life Skills

#5531 – S1

#5532 – S2

9 – 12

Semester/Year

5 or 10

Credits

ECHS This course will focus on personal development and the attainment of

skills that will prepare students to meet life’s challenges. Topics will

include communication and interpersonal skills, decision-making and

critical thinking skills, coping and self-management skills, thinking long

term and goal setting, developing negotiation skills, adjusting to change

and personal responsibility. Students will learn skills to maintain a

higher awareness of both themselves and the world around them.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Page 20: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

17

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Culinary Arts 1

(ROP)

#9701 – S1

#9702 – S2

11 – 12

Year

20 Credits

VHS The Culinary Arts class is a year-long, one hour vocational course with

primary emphasis placed on developing and providing skills and

competencies in the food and hospitality industry. The program provides

students with measurable outcomes through training and catering utilizing

state-of-art equipment. Approximately 70% of the course is devoted to

hands-on experience in the kitchen; the other 30% of the course is spent on

classroom instruction relating to the theory and fundamentals of a food

establishment. Students have the opportunity to do an internship and

receive a certificate of completion during their second semester. This

course meets for two periods for a total of twenty credits.

PREREQUISITE(S): Completion of Foods 1 and 2 with a “C” or higher

grade and the Instructor’s approval.

Culinary Arts 2

(ROP)

#9741 – S1

#9742 – S2

11 – 12

Year

20 Credits

VHS The Culinary Arts class is a year-long, two hour vocational course with

primary emphasis placed on developing and providing skills and

competencies in the food and hospitality industry. The program provides

students with measurable outcomes through training and catering utilizing

state-of-art equipment. Approximately 70% of the course is devoted to

hands-on experience in the kitchen; the other 30% of the course is spent on

classroom instruction relating to the theory and fundamentals of a food

establishment. Students have the opportunity to do an internship and

receive a certificate of completion during their second semester. This

course meets for two periods for a total of twenty credits.

PREREQUISITE(S): Completion of Foods and Nutrition and/or

Culinary Arts 1 with a “C” or higher grade and the Instructor’s approval.

Marriage and the

Family

#5541

Not repeatable for

credit

11 - 12

Semester

5 Credits

BHS

ECHS

PHS

VHS

The skills, knowledge and attitudes taught in this course will enable students

to understand goals and decision making, values and functions of families,

management of conflicts and crisis, changing roles and responsibilities,

communication skills, establishment and maintenance of relationships in

dating and marriage and preparation for marriage or single living.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Page 21: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

18

Applied Arts - Industrial Technology

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Auto Mechanics 1

#5001 – S1

#5002 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

VHS

Semester One – Auto Engines and Small Engines

This is a non- sequential one semester course covering the principles of

operation, construction and identification of automotive engines and related

systems such as fuel, ignition, charging and starting. The course consists of

teacher demonstration, class discussion and related lab work. During the

semester the student will have the opportunity for experience in

disassembly, assembly and identification of automotive engines and related

systems.

Semester Two – Auto Components

This is a non-sequential one semester course covering the principles of

operation and identification of automotive systems such as brakes,

suspension, steering and transmission. The course consists of teacher

demonstration, class discussion and related lab work. During the semester

the student will have the opportunity for experience in disassembly,

assembly and identification of automotive systems and their components.

Emphasis is on theory and identification of automotive system components.

Students will receive certification in Mechanical Safety at completion.

Students will be prepared for Ventura County Community College District

Automotive Fundamentals class.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Auto Mechanics 2

#5011 – S1

#5012 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

10 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

VHS

This course helps the student develop the basic skills, knowledge and

experience which will allow the student to qualify for entering jobs within

the automotive service industry, such as lubrication, light service mechanic,

new car “get ready” mechanic. The course is approximately seventy percent

hands on practice and thirty percent theory and discussion. Students will

receive Mechanical Safety and Pollution Prevention Certificates upon

completion of course work. Students will be prepared for Ventura County

Community College District Automotive Fundamentals class upon

satisfactory completion.

PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or better grade in Auto 1 and Instructor’s

approval.

Automotive

Technology

#5041 – S1

#5042 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

10 - 12

Year

20 Credits

BHS

VHS

This class meets for two periods per day for two semesters, giving the

student a total of 20 credits per year.. It is a vocational course, with primary

emphasis placed on providing the students with salable skill in automotive

servicing. Approximately seventy percent of the course is devoted to

manipulative experience in the shop area; the other thirty percent issued for

classroom instruction relating to the theory and fundamentals of each

automotive component. Students are required to participate in an offsite

internship allowing for real world practice in the second semester. Students

will be introduced to common business practices, such as invoicing,

estimating, job training/search, and information retrieval. Students may be

able to receive college credit for this class through articulation agreements

with Ventura County Community College District. Students will receive

mechanical Safety and Pollution Prevention Certificates through SP2.org.

PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Auto Mechanics and

Instructor’s approval.

Page 22: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

19

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Cabinet and

Millwork

#5211 – S1

#5212 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 12

Year

20 Credits

BHS

This course meets for two periods per day for two semesters, giving the

student a total of twenty credits. It is designed to instruct students in the use

and operation of a woodworking and cabinet shop. Students will receive

instruction in furniture making, cabinetry, wood and wood by-products and

materials used in the construction of furniture. This course provides

advanced instruction to individuals and as teams to design and implement

production projects, which includes computer assisted design (CAD), cost

analysis, material selection, construction, marketing, and distribution of

singular and mass production products. Students integrate other disciplines,

including mathematics, English, science, business, and art. The students

have the opportunity to do an internship and receive a certificate of

completion.

PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Wood 1 or 1A.

Drafting 1A

#5054

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 12

Semester

5 Credits

BHS

This course is intended to give each student a basic understanding of

technical drawing. Individual experiences include: sketching techniques,

proper lettering, drawing layout, single and multi-view drawings and an

introduction to architecture.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Drafting 1

#5051 – S1

#5052 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

VHS

This course will introduce the student to the fundamentals of architecture,

technical drawing and design concepts through board drafting. Other areas

of study will include sketching techniques, lettering, pictorial drawings, and

introduction to AutoCAD. This course and sequential courses will lead to a

better understanding of the fields of architecture, engineering,

interior/exterior design and construction technology.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Drafting 2

#5061 – S1

#5062 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

10 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

Advanced work is given in the areas established in Drafting 1. Emphasis is

placed on detailing, pictorial illustration, and architecture which include

remodeling, additions, new construction, and development of AutoCAD

skills.

PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Drafting 1 or a “B” or

higher grade in Drafting 1A.

Page 23: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

20

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Drafting 3

#5071 – S1

#5072 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

11 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

Students enrolling in this class will choose from the following topics in the

area(s) that they are most interested upon arriving in class. Architecture

Projects: The student will do advanced plan drawing, designing residences

and commercial buildings. Emphasis will be placed on details and

completeness of plans. Architectural rendering and model making are

possibilities. Technical Drawing: Students will draw complete drawings

of actual machine parts. Emphasis is placed on following commercial

drafting room practices. Those electing to do illustration will draw

isometric drawings of manufactured products. Computer Aided Drafting:

Students will operate a microcomputer system with special graphic and

drafting capabilities.

PREREQUISITE(S): “B” or higher grade in Drafting 2 and Instructor’s

approval.

Drafting 4

#5081 – S1

#5082 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

This course is intended for the advanced student who wishes to explore in

detail a specific drafting interest in technical illustration, machine design,

and architecture. Students share with the instructor a major part of the

course planning as related to their individual situation. They will also take

an active role in instructing other students in the use of drafting techniques.

PREREQUISITE(S): “B” or higher grade in Drafting 2 and Instructor’s

approval.

Furniture Making

and Design

#5171 – S1

#5172 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

This course is designed to give the student a good working knowledge and

skill base for producing cabinet and millwork. This includes:

understanding wood characteristics, safety and machine operations, project

design, drafting, blue print reading and material estimation, material flow

and handling, lay-out and procedure planning, and finish technology. The

student will be required to build a small cabinet, personal projects and

possibly projects from outside sources.

PREREQUISITE(S): Strong interest in woodworking.

Metal 1A

#5094

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 12

Semester/

Year

5 – 10

Credits

BHS

This course is for the student with little or no previous experience in metal

work. After receiving basic instructions in foundry work, forging, heat

treating, oxyacetylene cutting, arc welding, machining, art sheet and bench

metal, suitable projects will be assigned covering these areas. This course

also provides suitable background for prospective engineers, dentists,

mechanics, surgeons, draftsmen, home craftsmen and home-builders.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Metal 1

#5091 – S1

#5092 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

VHS

This career path course is aligned and coordinated with Ventura College for

an easy transition to VC. This metal shop course is designed for the student

with minimal previous experience in metal work. The student will receive

basic instruction in forging, acetylene welding lathe and mill operation,

sheet metal layout and fabrication and plan reading.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Page 24: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

21

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Metal 2

#5101 – S1

#5102 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

10 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

VHS

This career path course is aligned and coordinated with Ventura College for

an easy but advanced transition into welding and is recommended for

students pursuing careers as welders. Emphasis is placed on advanced

acetylene welding set up and proper use. Secondly is the introduction of

electric arc and MIG welding with emphasis on fabrication and receiving a

certificate of competency and placement as a classified welder.

PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Metal 1.

Metal 3

#5111 – S1

#5112 – S2

11 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

VHS

This course is for the individual who has discovered an interest and wishes

to gain additional experience in one or more areas. Processes of increased

difficulty, based upon previous experience, include machining, and

assembling of parts, oxyacetylene and electric arc-welding, tig and mig

welding. Industrial information is made available to the student.

PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Metal 2.

Wood 1

#5121 – S1

#5122 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

VHS

This career path course is for the student with minimal experience in wood

shop. It covers safety planning and design, instruction in woodworking with

machine tool operation, wood finishing processes and related operations.

Career opportunities within the carpentry industry is discussed and

researched.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Wood 2

#5131 – S1

#5132 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

10 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

VHS

This advanced career path prepares students for employment within related

industries. Covered topics are safety, wood turning lathe, wood finishing in

industry, advanced machine tools used professionally and preparation for

employment. Certificate of competency as a trained machine use operator is

received upon completion.

PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Wood 1.

Wood 3

#5141 – S1

#5142 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

10 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

This course emphasizes greater depth in study of woodworking methods and

practices and relates them to a vocational interest. Individualized interests

and needs will determine the direction of the work to be accomplished.

Emphasis will be placed on quality.

PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Wood 2.

Wood 4

#5151 – S1

#5152 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

11 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

This course emphasizes greater depth in study of woodworking methods and

practices and relates them to a vocational interest. Individualized interests

and needs will determine the direction of the work to be accomplished.

Emphasis will be placed on quality.

PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Wood 3.

Page 25: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

22

English/Language Arts

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

English 9

#1011 – S1

#1012 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

9

Year

10 Credits

ECHS

PHS

This course focuses on increasing reading, writing, speaking/listening and

study skills. Students will read and understand a variety of texts, including

non-fiction texts, workplace documents and other literature. Students will

write in a variety of genres, including narratives, expository and literary

analysis essays. Students will study vocabulary, grammar and will also

deliver narrative presentations.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): Prior grades in English, counselor and teacher

recommendations and CST Test Scores.

English 9 P

#1031 – S1

#1032 – S2

#1037 – S1 SDAIE

#1038 – S2 SDAIE

Not repeatable for

credit

9

Year

10 Credits

BHS

ECHS

FTHS

VHS

In this college preparatory class, skills in listening, reading, speaking and

writing will be maintained and expanded with an emphasis on expository

writing, grammar and literature. Students will read and understand grade-

level appropriate material and analyze the organizational patterns,

arguments and positions advanced. Students write coherent and focused

essays that convey a well-defined perspective and tightly reasoned argument

as they progress through the stages of the writing process.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): Prior grades in English, counselor and teacher

recommendations and CST Test Scores.

English 9 H

#1041 – S1

#1042 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

9

Year

10 Credits

BHS

FTHS

VHS

This course provides an accelerated, unified program of instruction in

language, literature, and composition, engaging the student in appropriate

practice in listening, reading, speaking, writing, and related thinking. In

addition to meeting the standards set for other 9th

grade English classes, the

student will be expected to write papers and complete projects which reflect,

not only the various literary works used in class, but the relevance and

importance of these works. Summer reading is a required.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): Prior grades in English, Scored Advanced on CA

Standards Eng./Lang Arts Test, or passed a District Level Assessment.

English 10

#1061 – S1

#1062 – S2

#1067 – S1 SDAIE

#1068 – S2 SDAIE

Not repeatable for

credit

10

Year

10 Credits

ECHS

PHS

This course has a world and multicultural approach to the study of world

literature. Students will apply their knowledge of word origins to

determine the meaning of new words encountered in reading materials and

use those words accurately. Classroom instruction will help students

improve their skills in spelling, vocabulary, grammar and mechanics in

writing compositions, and interpreting literature. Classroom work and

assessments will be driven by the English Language Arts Content Standards.

PREREQUISITE(S): Prior grades in English, counselor and teacher

recommendations and CST Test Scores.

Page 26: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

23

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

English 10 P

#1071 – S1

#1072 – S2

#1077 – S1 SDAIE

#1078 – S2 SDAIE

Not repeatable for

credit

10

Year

10 Credits

BHS

ECHS

FTHS

VHS

This course has a world and multicultural approach to the study of world

literature. It is designed for self-motivated students and offers an enriched

curriculum in reading and writing. Instruction will enable students to focus

on expanding and refining expository writing and literary analysis and

application of listening, speaking and writing skills previously learned.

Students will also be required to do more outside reading and more outside

class preparation and study. Classroom work and assessments will be

driven by the English Language Arts Content Standards.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): Prior grades in English, counselor and teacher

recommendations and CST Test Scores.

English 10 H

#1081 – S1

#1082 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

10

Year

10 Credits

BHS

FTHS

VHS

This course has a world and multicultural approach to the study of world

literature. It includes considerably more reading, writing and speaking than

required in other 10th grade English classes. The objectives of this course

are to further develop effective writing skills as demonstrated in multi-

paragraph composition, and to further develop advanced critical reading

skills and increase the development of oral communication skills. Training

in research techniques and the preparation of research papers is provided.

Summer reading is required.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): Prior grades in English, counselor and teacher

recommendations and CST Test Scores.

English 11

#1111 – S1

#1112 – S2

#1117 – S1 SDAIE

#1118 – S2 SDAIE

Not repeatable for

credit

11

Year

10 Credits

ECHS

PHS

This course centers upon reading American literature and the development

of listening and speaking skills. Also included is an emphasis on reflective

and persuasive composition along with responses to literature. Instruction

on vocabulary and English conventions is provided as well as research

techniques and the preparation of an historical investigative report.

PREREQUISITE(S): Prior grades in English, counselor and teacher

recommendations.

English 11 P

#1121 – S1

#1122 – S2

#1127 – S1 SDAIE

#1128 – S2 SDAIE

Not repeatable for

credit

11

Year

10 Credits

BHS

ECHS

FTHS

VHS

Students will study American writers, poets, and dramatists, within the

framework of a literature-based writing program. Student’s ability to think

critically will be developed and assessed through frequent writing and

speaking assignments. The content of this course follows the English

Language Arts Contents Standards and introduces the students to literary

interpretations of experience and values in the United States, reinforces

expository writing skills and introduces the research paper.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): Prior grades in English, counselor and teacher

recommendation.

Page 27: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

24

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

AP English

Language and

Composition

#1131 – S1

#1132 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

11

Year

10 Credits

BHS

FTHS

VHS

This course encourage students to become skilled readers of prose written in

a variety of time periods, and skilled writers who compose for a variety of

purposes and forms, as well as addressing the 11th

grade English Language

Arts Content Standards. The course focuses on preparation for the

Advanced Placement Exam. Students enrolled in this course are strongly

encouraged to take the Advanced Placement Examination provided by the

College Board. Summer reading is required.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): Completion of English 10 P or 10 H with an A or

B, and/or teacher recommendation.

English 12

#1161 – S1

#1162 – S2

#1167 – S1 SDAIE

#1168 – S2 SDAIE

Not repeatable for

credit

12

Year

10 Credits

ECHS

PHS

This course reinforces and extends previously learned skills through

instruction centered on British literature. This course also builds efficiency

in reading, spelling, vocabulary, basic sentence structure, punctuation, and

study skills. It is also designed to improve composition skills with an

emphasis on writing essays with attention to principles of effective

exposition and mechanics.

PREREQUISITE(S): Prior grades in English, counselor and teacher

recommendations.

English 12 P

#1171 – S1

#1172 – S2

#1177 – S1 SDAIE

#1178 – S2 SDAIE

Not repeatable for

credit

12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

ECHS

FTHS

VHS

This is an accelerated course for those students who are planning on

furthering their education after graduation. This course will focus on

interpretation of British and world literature, composition and critical

thinking skills necessary for college success. Frequent writing and careful

revision of analytical themes provide valuable college preparation.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): Prior grades in English, counselor and teacher

recommendations.

English 12 P –

Expository

Reading and

Writing Course

(ERWC)

#1171ERW – S1

#1172ERW – S2

12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

ECHS

VHS

The Expository Reading and Writing Course (ERWC) is to prepare college-

bound 12th

grade students for the literacy demands of higher education.

Through a sequence of fourteen rigorous instructional modules, students in

this yearlong, rhetoric-based course develop advanced proficiency in

expository, analytical, and argumentative reading and writing. The

cornerstone of the course – the assignment template – presents a process for

helping students read, comprehend, and respond to nonfiction and literary

texts.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): None

Page 28: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

25

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

AP English

Literature and

Composition

#1181 – S1

#1182 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

FTHS

VHS

Designed to meet academic English requirements of the University of

California and the California State University systems, this course provides

an accelerated study of British and World literature. Writing instruction

emphasizes superior command of organization and logic, together with a

feeling for style. Frequent writing and careful revision of analytical themes

provide valuable college preparation for academically talented or mentally

gifted students. Students enrolled in this course are strongly encouraged to

take the Advanced Placement Examination provided by the College Board.

Summer reading is required.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): Completion of English 11 P or 11 AP with an A

or B, and/or teacher recommendation.

Page 29: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

26

English Language Development (ELD) Program

English Course Placement Guide

*ELD Placement Level Course Name Grade(s) Credits

VUSD Credits

Towards

Graduation

UC/CSU

“a – g”

Require-

ments

English Elective

Beginning and Low Early Intermediate ELD I Block 9 - 12 20 10 10

ELD English I (10)

ELD Reading & Writing I (10)

Mid to High Early Intermediate ELD II Block 9 - 12 20 10 10

ELD English II (10)

ELD Reading & Writing II (10)

Intermediate ELD III Block 9 - 12 20 10 10

ELD English III (10)

ELD Reading & Writing III (10)

Early Advanced/Advanced ELD IV Block 9 - 12 20 10 10 b**

Students at the Early Advanced/Advanced ELD English IV (10)

level have several course options. ELD Reading & Writing IV (10)

Placement will be based on the analysis of English 9 SDAIE 9 10 10 b***

multiple assessments. English 9 P 9 10 10 b

English 9 H 9 10 10 b

English 10 SDAIE 10 10 10 b***

English 10 P 10 10 10 b

English 10 H 10 10 10 b

English 11 SDAIE 11 10 10 b***

English 11 P 11 10 10 b

English 11 AP 11 10 10 b

CP Academy English 11 10 10 b

English 12 SDAIE 12 10 10 b***

English 12 P 12 10 10 b

English 12 AP 12 10 10 b

CP Academy English 12 10 10 b

*ELD Placement Level will be determined by results from state and local assessments, class work, teacher input, years enrolled

in U.S. schools, and foreign transcripts.

**A maximum of one ELD course at the EA/A level can be used to satisfy the UC/CSU English “b” requirement. (www.ucop.edu/a-gGuide/ag/a-g/english_reqs.html).

***English SDAIE courses follow the same course of study as their non-SDAIE counterparts and therefore satisfy the UC/CSU

English “b” requirement with no unit limitations.

Page 30: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

27

English Learner (EL) Program Success Pathways

Subjects Beginning Early

Intermediate

Intermediate Early Advanced/

Advanced

5th

Year Senior

English

Course

ELD I Block - ELD English I

- ELD Reading &

Writing I

ELD II Block - ELD English II

- ELD Reading &

Writing II

ELD III Block - ELD English III

- ELD Reading &

Writing III

ELD IV Block - ELD English IV - ELD Reading & Writing IV

College Prep English:

ELM, Mainstream,

Honors/AP, Academy

Plus

Additional course

meeting UC/CSU or

VUSD graduation

requirements

Contracts based

on attendance,

behavior, and

grades in senior

year.

Available to

students who

could complete

graduation

requirements in

5th

year.

Continued after

first quarter for

students making

progress.

Treated as

intervention.

Documented on

AB 1802 sheets

in the fall.

History/

Social

Science

or Science

Course

Any of the available CP Science or History/Social Science courses

Science clusters: Health, Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science, Engineering,

Environmental Science, Physics, Physiology or Academy course

History/Social Science clusters: American History, Economics, Geography,

History, Psychology, Sociology taught in L1, SEI, ELM, Mainstream,

Honors/AP, Academy

Elective or

Spanish

Course

Elective or

Spanish for

Native

Speakers, AP

Spanish, or

other advanced

Spanish course

Elective or

Spanish for

Native

Speakers, AP

Spanish, or

other advanced

Spanish course

Elective or

Spanish for

Native

Speakers, AP

Spanish, or

other advanced

Spanish course

Elective or Spanish for

Native Speakers, AP

Spanish, or other

advanced Spanish

course

PE or

Fine/

Applied Art

Course

Physical

Education

Fine Art

Applied Art

Physical

Education

Fine Art

Applied Art

Physical

Education

Fine Art

Applied Art

Physical Education

Fine Art

Applied Art

Math

Course

Any of the available CP math courses:

Algebra 1B, Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2, Calculus, Trigonometry

Taught in L1, SDAIE, Mainstream, Honors/AP, Academy

Extended

Day

Interventions and/or additional courses

Summer

School

Students may need additional English or other courses for UC/CSU eligibility

or graduation requirements.

ELD – English Language Development CP – College Preparation AP – Advanced Placement

UC/CSU – University of California/California State University

L1 – Primary language instruction or support in student’s home language

SEI - Structured English Immersion (SDAIE Methodology with Primary Language Support)

ELM – English Language Mainstream (SDAIE Methodology)

In order to graduate from VUSD, students must meet the district graduation requirements and pass the California High

School Exit Exam (CAHSEE).

Students pursuing a Career Technical Education pathway or UC/CSU entrance must meet specific course sequence

requirements.

Page 31: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

28

English Learner Development (ELD) Courses

ELD 1, ELD 2, ELD 3, ELD 4

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

ELD 1 Block

ELD English 1

ELD Reading &

Writing 1

ELD English 1

#1401A – S1

#1402A – S2

ELD Reading &

Writing 1

#1401B – S1

#1402B – S2

9 - 12

Year

20 Credits 10 English

10 Elective

BHS

CDS

ECHS

PHS

VHS

English Language Development (ELD) I Block provides communication-

based, content-based, and literature-based activities delivered through

research-based instructional strategies appropriate for English learners in the

beginning and low early intermediate levels of language proficiency. The

content and pacing reflect that two classes, ELD English I and ELD Reading

and Writing I, must be taken concurrently. The student learning and

performance goals are based on the California ELD Standards for Grades 9-

12, Beginning and Early Intermediate Levels. The emphasis at this level is

on listening comprehension, oral production in English, vocabulary

development, and fluency. Instruction also includes academic vocabulary

for the content areas, and informational and functional reading skills based

on classroom and student experiences. Literature selections reflect the

culture and ethnicity of the students enrolled in the course. Students will

participate in writing lessons using the language experience approach and

shared and guided writing strategies which allow writing skills to develop in

a scaffolded environment. Students’ primary language skills will be

assessed to determine the amount of instruction needed in beginning literacy

skills such as phonemic awareness and decoding. In addition to mastering

literacy and English skills, students will become acquainted with United

States culture and traditions, knowledgeable of the school’s facilities and

procedures, aware of community organizations and services, and familiar

with bilingual/bicultural career opportunities.

PREREQUISITES: None

PLACEMENT: Determination of placement will be based on results from

CST, CELDT, and local assessments, class work, teacher input, years

enrolled in U.S. schools, and foreign transcripts.

Page 32: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

29

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

ELD 2 Block

ELD English 2

ELD Reading &

Writing 2

ELD English 2

#1411A – S1

#1412A – S2

ELD Reading &

Writing 2

#1411B – S1

#1412B – S2

.

9 - 12

Year

20 Credits 10 English

10 Elective

BHS

ECHS

PHS

VHS

English Language Development (ELD) II Block continues the development

of listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in English with increased

focus on reading and writing. Instruction is delivered through research-

based instructional strategies appropriate for English learners in the mid to

high early intermediate levels of language proficiency. The content and

pacing reflect that two classes, ELD English II and ELD Reading and

Writing II, must be taken concurrently. The student learning and

performance goals for the course are based on the California ELD Standards

for Grades 9-12, Early Intermediate and Intermediate Levels. Students

begin to understand and use language and information in a wide range of

situations. Control of basic grammar is evident but may be inconsistent.

Reading comprehension skills include interpreting reading passages,

developing critical and evaluative reading skills, and applying their reading

ability to solve problems. Instruction also includes academic vocabulary for

the content areas, and informational and functional reading skills. Fluency

practice continues as the rigor of the academic language increases. In

addition, emphasis is placed on summary writing, note–taking strategies,

generating questions, answering questions, narrative text structure, and

strategies for reading content-area textbooks. Students continue to explore

bilingual/bicultural career opportunities.

PREREQUISITES: None

PLACEMENT: Determination of placement will be based on results from

CST, CELDT, and local assessments, class work, teacher input, years

enrolled in U.S. schools, and foreign transcripts.

ELD 3 Block

ELD English 3

ELD Reading &

Writing 3

ELD English 3

#1421A – S1

#1422A – S2

ELD Reading &

Writing 3

#1421B – S1

#1422B – S2

9 - 12

Year

20 Credits 10 English

10 Elective

BHS

ECHS

PHS

VHS

English Language Development (ELD) III Block is an intensive course of

academic English instruction that is delivered through research-based

instructional strategies appropriate for English learners in the intermediate

level of language proficiency. The content and pacing reflect that two

classes, ELD English III and ELD Reading and Writing III, must be taken

concurrently. The student learning and performance goals for the course are

based on the California ELD Standards for Grades 9-12, Intermediate and

Early Advanced Levels and the California Language Arts Standards

assessed on the CAHSEE. Emphasis is placed on the reading and writing

processes and students learn the distinctions among the various reading and

writing genres. Students communicate ideas and information orally and in

writing with increased confidence and for different audiences and purposes.

Instruction continues to assist students in developing appropriate academic

language and learning strategies. Students continue to explore

bilingual/bicultural career opportunities.

PREREQUISITES: None

PLACEMENT: Determination of placement will be based on results from

CST, CELDT, and local assessments, class work, teacher input, years

enrolled in U.S. schools, and foreign transcripts.

Page 33: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

30

ELD 4 Block

ELD English 4

ELD Reading &

Writing 4

ELD English 4

#1431A – S1

#1432A – S2

ELD Reading &

Writing 3

#1431B – S1

#1432B – S2

9 - 12

Year 20 Credits

10 English

10 Elective

BHS

ECHS

PHS

VHS

English Language Development (ELD) IV Block is an intensive course of

academic and university preparatory English instruction that is delivered

through research-based instructional strategies appropriate for English

learners in the early advanced and advanced levels of language proficiency.

The content and pacing reflect that two classes, ELD English IV and ELD

Reading and Writing IV, must be taken concurrently. The student learning

and performance goals for the course are based on the California English

Language Arts State Standards, Grades 9-12, California ELD Standards for

Grades 9-12, Early Advanced and Advanced Levels, and the California

Language Arts Standards assessed on the CAHSEE. This course is designed

to engage English learners in higher-level speaking, reading, writing,

listening, and evaluating exercises using a variety of readings in essays,

novels, short stories, drama, and expository genres. Speeches and writing

will include the use of reflection, supported claims and assertions, primary

and secondary sources, and point of view. The elements of composition

(grammar, usage, and mechanics) and the conventions of the English

language will be taught through the study of models, text exercises,

students’ writing, and outside reading. In order to ensure that students will

be successful in all college preparatory content classes, the following

research supported cognitive strategies will be explicitly taught during this

course: predicting, activating, inferring, monitoring-clarifying, questioning,

searching-selecting, summarizing, visualizing-organizing, analyzing

author’s craft and purpose, and self-monitoring while reading (McEwan,

2007; Harvey, 2000; Zimmerman and Keene, 1997; Pressley, 2000). This

course prepares students to succeed in either college preparatory grade level

mainstream or SDAIE English. In addition, students will continue to

explore bilingual/bicultural career opportunities.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITES: None

PLACEMENT: Determination of placement will be based on results from

CST, CELDT, and local assessments, class work, teacher input, years

enrolled in U.S. schools, and foreign transcripts.

English, Math, Science and Social Science designated as “Specially Designed Academic Instruction

in English” SDAIE) prepare English Learner students to master the same content standards as non-

SDAIE courses. In addition, SDAIE instruction addresses the California English Language

Development standards. SDAIE courses are designed for English Learners at the Intermediate ELD

proficiency level and above. SDAIE instructional strategies include explicit focus on academic

vocabulary, scaffolded lessons, frequent checking for understanding and student engagement

activities. All SDAIE college preparatory (P) courses are approved to meet UC a-g requirements.

Page 34: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

31

English and Strategic Reading (ESR)

ESR 1

English and Strategic Reading (ESR) 1

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

ESR 1 Block

ESR English 1

ESR Reading 1

ESR English 1

#1001ESR – S1

#1002ESR – S2

ESR Reading 1

#1001RDG – S1

#1002RDG – S2

9 - 12

Year

20 Credits

10 English

10 Elective

BHS

ECHS

PHS

VHS

English and Strategic Reading 1 (ESR 1) serves the striving reader and

writer who is performing in the Lexile Reading range of BR–700 (reading

comprehension levels of Grades 1–3). The ESR 1 course and materials are

aligned to the grades 9-12 English language arts standards while addressing

the level of the text, reading strategies, decoding, fluency, writing,

vocabulary, language, and conventions necessary for the students in this

class to achieve. Student and teacher materials, instruction, scaffolding,

activities, and assessment practices target the specific literacy needs for

these developing adolescent readers and are focused to accelerate reading

growth by gaining 2-3 grade levels per year. Students will read a variety of

classical and contemporary texts addressing the reading text styles of

literary, informational, persuasive, and functional. Writing modes include

reflective essay, autobiography, position paper, research report, literary

research report, persuasive essay, literary analysis, and short story. Students

will learn the writing traits of focus and unity, voice and style, development

of ideas, organization, and written conventions. In addition, each unit

includes three extended reading selections which allow students to be in

small groups based on their specific Lexile level. Students will participate

in reading reflections, comprehension and writing activities, and group

discussion for each leveled library book. Teachers will monitor student

learning regularly in order to quickly address learning needs. Students are

administered three cluster assessments within each unit and reflect upon

their learning successes and needs and each unit includes a unit test and a

writing project which is scored by a writing rubric and peer review.

CORE TEXT: Hampton-Brown Edge Fundamentals

PREREQUISITES: None

PLACEMENT: Student performance history will be reviewed to screen

for potential enrollment. Students screened will receive the following

assessment tools: Edge placement test, fluency assessment, Scholastic

Reading Inventory (Lexile level test) and a writing sample. Results of

these assessments coupled with student performance history will be

analyzed to determine final placement in this course.

Page 35: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

32

English and Strategic Reading (ESR)

ESR 2

English and Strategic Reading (ESR) 2

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

ESR 2 Block

ESR English 2

ESR Reading 2

ESR English 2

#1051ESR – S1

#1052ESR – S2

ESR Reading 2

#1051RDG – S1

#1052RDG – S2

9 - 12

Year

20 Credits 10 English

10 Elective

BHS

ECHS

PHS

VHS

English and Strategic Reading 2 (ESR 2) serves the striving reader and

writer who is performing in the Lexile Reading range of 500–950 (reading

comprehension levels of Grades 3–5). The ESR 2 course and materials are

aligned to the grades 9-12 English language arts standards while addressing

the level of the text, reading strategies, decoding, fluency, writing,

vocabulary, language, and conventions necessary for the students in this

class to achieve. Student and teacher materials, instruction, scaffolding,

activities, and assessment practices target the specific literacy needs for

these developing adolescent readers and are focused to accelerate reading

growth by gaining 2-3 grade levels per year. Students will read a variety of

classical and contemporary texts addressing the reading text styles of

literary, informational, persuasive, and functional. Writing modes include

reflective essay, autobiography, position paper, research report, literary

research report, persuasive essay, literary analysis, and short story. Students

will learn the writing traits of focus and unity, voice and style, development

of ideas, organization, and written conventions. In addition, each unit

includes three extended reading selections which allow students to be in

small groups based on their specific Lexile level. Students will participate

in reading reflections, comprehension and writing activities, and group

discussion for each leveled library book. Teachers will monitor student

learning regularly in order to quickly address learning needs. Students are

administered three cluster assessments within each unit and reflect upon

their learning successes and needs and each unit includes a unit test and a

writing project which is scored by a writing rubric and peer review.

CORE TEXT: Hampton-Brown Edge Level A

PREREQUISITES: None

PLACEMENT: Student performance history will be reviewed to screen

for potential enrollment. Students screened will receive the following

assessment tools: Edge placement test, fluency assessment, Scholastic

Reading Inventory (Lexile level test) and a writing sample. Results of

these assessments coupled with student performance history will be

analyzed to determine final placement in this course.

Page 36: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

33

English and Strategic Reading (ESR)

ESR 3

English and Strategic Reading (ESR) 3

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

ESR 3 Block

ESR English 3

ESR Reading 3

ESR English 3

#1101ESR – S1

#1102ESR – S2

ESR Reading 3

#1101RDG – S1

#1102RDG – S2

9 - 12

Year

20 Credits 10 English

10 Elective

BHS

ECHS

PHS

VHS

English and Strategic Reading 3 (ESR 3) serves the striving reader and

writer who is performing in the Lexile Reading range of 750–1075 (reading

comprehension levels of Grades 5–7). The ESR 3 course and materials are

aligned to the grades 9-12 English language arts standards while addressing

the level of the text, reading strategies, decoding, fluency, writing,

vocabulary, language, and conventions necessary for the students in this

class to achieve. Student and teacher materials, instruction, scaffolding,

activities, and assessment practices target the specific literacy needs for

these developing adolescent readers and are focused to accelerate reading

growth by gaining 2-3 grade levels per year. Students will read a variety of

classical and contemporary texts addressing the reading text styles of

literary, informational, persuasive, and functional. Writing modes include

reflective essay, autobiography, position paper, research report, literary

research report, persuasive essay, literary analysis, and short story. Students

will learn the writing traits of focus and unity, voice and style, development

of ideas, organization, and written conventions. In addition, each unit

includes three extended reading selections which allow students to be in

small groups based on their specific Lexile level. Students will participate

in reading reflections, comprehension and writing activities, and group

discussion for each leveled library book. Teachers will monitor student

learning regularly in order to quickly address learning needs. Students are

administered three cluster assessments within each unit and reflect upon

their learning successes and needs and each unit includes a unit test and a

writing project which is scored by a writing rubric and peer review.

CORE TEXT: Hampton-Brown Edge Level B

PREREQUISITES: None

PLACEMENT: Student performance history will be reviewed to screen

for potential enrollment. Students screened will receive the following

assessment tools: Edge placement test, fluency assessment, Scholastic

Reading Inventory (Lexile level test) and a writing sample. Results of

these assessments coupled with student performance history will be

analyzed to determine final placement in this course.

Page 37: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

34

English and Strategic Reading (ESR)

ESR 4

English and Strategic Reading (ESR) 4

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

ESR English 4

ESR English 4

#1151ESR – S1

#1152ESR – S2

ESR Reading 4

#1151RDG—S1

#1152RDG—S2

10 - 12

Year

10 Credits English

and 10

elective

credits for

10th

graders

BHS

ECHS

PHS

VHS

English and Strategic Reading 4 (ESR 4) serves the striving reader and

writer who is performing in the Lexile Reading range of 950–1150 (reading

comprehension levels of Grades 7–9). The ESR 4 course and materials are

aligned to the grades 9-12 English language arts standards while addressing

the level of the text, reading strategies, decoding, fluency, writing,

vocabulary, language, and conventions necessary for the students in this

class to achieve. Student and teacher materials, instruction, scaffolding,

activities, and assessment practices target the specific literacy needs for

these developing adolescent readers and are focused to accelerate reading

growth by gaining 2-3 grade levels per year. Students will read a variety of

classical and contemporary texts addressing the reading text styles of

literary, informational, persuasive, and functional. Writing modes include

reflective essay, autobiography, position paper, research report, literary

research report, persuasive essay, literary analysis, and short story. Students

will learn the writing traits of focus and unity, voice and style, development

of ideas, organization, and written conventions. In addition, each unit

includes three extended reading selections which allow students to be in

small groups based on their specific Lexile level. Students will participate

in reading reflections, comprehension and writing activities, and group

discussion for each leveled library book. Teachers will monitor student

learning regularly in order to quickly address learning needs. Students are

administered three cluster assessments within each unit and reflect upon

their learning successes and needs and each unit includes a unit test and a

writing project which is scored by a writing rubric and peer review.

CORE TEXT: Hampton-Brown Edge Level C

PREREQUISITES: None

PLACEMENT: Student performance history will be reviewed to screen

for potential enrollment. Students screened will receive the following

assessment tools: Edge placement test, fluency assessment, Scholastic

Reading Inventory (Lexile level test) and a writing sample. Results of

these assessments coupled with student performance history will be

analyzed to determine final placement in this course.

Page 38: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

35

English/Language Arts - Electives

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Creative Writing 1

#1251 – S1

#1252 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

10 - 12

Semester/

Year

5 or 10

Credits

BHS

ECHS

PHS

VHS

Students will work on improving their skills as writers through various

extensive reading and writing projects. An emphasis will be placed on

learning about the writing process and practicing with various literary

techniques, styles, and genres. Students will be keeping a portfolio of their

pieces, as well as sharing and assessing their own and other’s work.

UC/CSU Accepted- must be taken for both semesters to fulfill the UC/CSU

requirement.

PREREQUISITE(S): Prior grades in English, counselor and teacher

recommendations and CST Test Scores.

English/Language

Arts Intervention

#1004 - SM

9 - 12

Semester

5 Credits

BHS

This course is designed for those students who are below grade level in

reading. A special emphasis will include vocabulary development, basic

reading and writing skills and preparation for the California High School

Exit Examination (CAHSEE).

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Fantasy Literature

#1494 - SM

10 - 12

Semester

5 Credits

ECHS This course explores the dream of escape from current reality through

literature. Fantasy Literature delves into the human desires of love,

freedom, power, acceptance, happiness, and understanding. This course

compares and contrasts the classic fantasy writers with those of the present.

PREREQUISITE(S): Teacher and counselor approval.

Creative Writing

B/Films

#1244 – SM

10 - 12

Semester

5 Credits

BHS

PHS

This course is intended to introduce students to film as an art form that

parallels the literature on which it is often based. It is designed to introduce

students to the basic parts of story construction. Films will be selected for

genres and themes that are frequent topics of short stories and novels.

PREREQUISITE(S): Teacher and counselor approval.

Journalism 1*

#1311 – S1

#1312 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

10 - 12

Semester/

Year

5 or 10

Credits

BHS

ECHS

FTHS

VHS

Journalism 1 is an introduction to Journalism where students develop their

writing skills by writing news, sports, features, entertainment, and viewpoint

articles. They develop the ability to determine what format, style, and voice

is appropriate for each type of writing. The journalism class writes, edits,

and produces the school newspaper and the school website. There is also an

opportunity for experience in photography, graphics, computerized lay-out

and the possibilities of field trips to national journalism conferences.

UC/CSU Accepted – must be taken for both semesters to fulfill the

UC/CSU requirement.

PREREQUISITE(S): A or A- in English and Instructor’s approval. Also

a letter of recommendation from the student’s English teacher and

another teacher who knows the student.

Page 39: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

36

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Journalism 2*

#1321 – S1

#1322 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

11 - 12

Semester/

Year

5 or 10

Credits

BHS

VHS

FTHS

Students in journalism further develop their writing skills by writing news,

sports, features, entertainment, and viewpoint articles. They develop the

ability to determine what format, style, and voice is appropriate for each

type of writing. The journalism class writes, edits, and produces the school

newspaper. There is also an opportunity for experience in photography,

graphics, and computerized lay-out.

UC/CSU Accepted – must be taken for both semesters to fulfill the

UC/CSU requirement.

PREREQUISITE(S): A grade of an “A” or “B” in Journalism I with the

instructor’s approval.

Journalism 3*

#1331 – S1

#1332 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

11 - 12

Semester/

Year

5 or 10

Credits

BHS

FTHS

VHS

Students in journalism further develop their writing skills by writing news,

sports, features, entertainment, and viewpoint articles. They develop the

ability to determine what format, style, and voice is appropriate for each

type of writing. The journalism class writes, edits, and produces the school

newspaper. There is also an opportunity for experience in photography,

graphics, and computerized lay-out.

UC/CSU Accepted – must be taken for both semesters to fulfill the

UC/CSU requirement.

PREREQUISITE(S): A grade of an “A” or “B” in Journalism 2 with the

instructor’s approval.

Journalism 4*

# 1341 - S1

# 1342 - S2

Not repeatable for

credit

12

Year

10 Credits

FTHS

VHS

Journalism 4 students typically are seniors who have demonstrated a high

level of interest and commitment to journalism and the school’s newspaper

publication. These students are usually serving in the highest editorial

leadership positions and hold the most responsibility for day-to-day

management of staff and the publication

PREREQUISITE(S): A grade of an “A” or “B” in Journalism 3with the

instructor’s approval.

*For all classes in journalism, new students are not admitted at the 2nd

semester.

Page 40: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

37

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Speech 1

#1351 – S1

#1352 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 12

Semester/

Year

5 or 10

Credits

BHS

ECHS

FTHS

Speech will build the student’s poise, confidence and research skills.

During the semester each student will practice giving four basic types of

speeches: to inform, to convince, to demonstrate, and to entertain. Student

research will emphasize current social issues. The ability to think quickly

and concisely will be practiced throughout the course through impromptu

speeches.

UC/CSU Accepted – must be taken for both semesters to fulfill the

UC/CSU requirement.

PREREQUISITE(S): Prior grades in English, counselor and teacher

recommendations.

Speech 2

(Forensics)

#1361 – S1

#1362 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 12

Year

10 Credits

FTHS

This course is designed for the student who wishes to be involved in

competitive speech activities. Students must be highly motivated and

willing to work independently in a workshop-like atmosphere. Although

intended for the student who has completed Speech 1, this course is open to

incoming freshmen with a recommendation from their middle school

English, speech or dram teacher.

UC/CSU Accepted – must be taken for both semesters to fulfill the

UC/CSU requirement.

PREREQUISITE(S): Prior grades in English, counselor and teacher

recommendations.

Reading 1

#1334

#1334A – S1

#1334B – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 12

Semester/

Year

5 or 10

Credits

BHS

ECHS

PHS

This course provides a complete review of basic reading skills with special

emphasis on vocabulary development and reading comprehension. Students

will practice strategies to help them better summarize and analyze both

fiction and non-fiction passages. The objectives in this course are for the

student to be better prepared for success in regular high school subjects and

to improve their skills in reading.

PREREQUISITE(S): Prior grades in English, counselor and teacher

recommendations.

Power Reading

#1344 - SM

9 – 12

Semester

5 Credits

ECHS This course is designed for students with average or above average reading

skills. Power Reading offers students an opportunity to pursue a deeper

understanding of novels of their choice. Students will evaluate and analyze

the works of different authors through Reader’s Logs, Reader’s Responses

and essays. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the representations

and communication that the authors are portraying to the audience. Novels

must be approved by the instructor to receive credit.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Page 41: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

38

Fine Arts - Drama and Music

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Belle Voci

(Advanced Choir)

#7027 – S1

#7028 – S2

10 – 12

Semester

5 Credits

BHS This course will develop student competency in vocal performance.

Students will be able to read a piece of music, identify the major

components of a piece of music, understand music terminology and

expressive notation and properly identify and perform a musical expression.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): Instructor’s approval/Audition.

Chamber

Winds/Wind

Ensemble/Wind

#7051 – S1

#7052 – S2

9 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

VHS

This course is an instrumental performing ensemble that emphasizes concert

literature and instrumental technique. Music literature covers styles from

Baroque to Modern and ranges from grade 5 to grade 6 literature. Both solo

and ensemble playing are a requirement. Wind Ensemble performs at

concerts and festivals. Concurrent enrollment in Marching Band is

preferred, but not required. An audition should be arranged prior to the

beginning of the school year.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): Instructor approval/Audition.

Concert Band

#7011 – S1

#7012 – S2

9 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

VHS

This course is an instrumental performing ensemble that emphasizes concert

literature and instrumental technique. Music literature covers styles from

Baroque to Modern and ranges from grade 3 to grade 5 music. Both solo

and ensemble playing are a requirement. The Concert Band performs at

concerts and festivals. Concurrent enrollment in Marching Band is

preferred, but not required.

UC/CSU Accepted after of completion of 2nd

Year

PREREQUISITE(S): Instrumental experience preferred.

Concert Choir

#7021 – S1

#7022 – S2

9 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

VHS

This course is open to all students who enjoy, or would like to learn how to

sing. The choir will prepare and perform vocal literature from many

different genres based on the strengths of the ensemble. Solo singing is

encouraged, but not required. The emphasis of this class will be on

fundamental voice production (a must for any stage work) and the basics of

musicianship. This is a performing ensemble and will perform at concerts

and festivals. Students of exceptional ability will have further opportunities

to excel.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Concert Percussion

Ensemble

(Drumline)

#7001 – S1

#7002 – S2

9 - 12

Semester

or Year

5 or 10

Credits

BHS

VHS

This course is a comprehensive study of instrumental music involving

musical interpretation, music history, and music performance within the

context of the contemporary Concert Percussion Ensemble. Individually,

students gain knowledge on instrumental expertise, music theory, music

appreciation and analysis, composition, and music expression. Students

explore select percussion ensemble literature including orchestral

transcriptions that span music history and periods. In the process of this

exploration, students use skills in critical thinking, musical analysis, musical

interpretation, and sight reading.

PREREQUISITE(S): Instructor approval/Audition.

Page 42: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

39

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Drama 1

#6371 – S1

#6372 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

ECHS

VHS

This course is designed to introduce students to the many facets of theatre.

Students will learn more about themselves and many ways to communicate

ideas and feelings as well as skills necessary to act, direct, stage-manage and

produce a theatrical production. .Students will engage in activities such as

theatre games, poetry readings, improvisations, pantomimes, monologues,

short acting scenes and, if time permits, they will have a chance to audition

and perform a one act plan. Students will apply theatre history and literature

as they relate to our culture and to society today.

UC/CSU Accepted (not at ECHS)

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Drama 2

#6381 – S1

#6382 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

10 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

ECHS

FTHS

VHS

This course provides more involved experiences for students who have

successfully completed Drama 1. Experiences include enhancement of

learned theatre skills, acting, directing, and interpreting dramatic literature

and scripts. Students will audition and complete a production from

beginning to end, including all facets of production. Further study of the

history of the theatre and its impact on culture will also be provided.

UC/CSU Accepted (not at ECHS)

PREREQUISITE(S): Instructor’s approval.

Jazz Band

#7061 – S1

#7062 – S2

9 - 12

Semester

or Year

5 or 10

Credits

BHS

VHS

This course is designed for the more advanced instrumental student. With a

focus on the basics of jazz style and improvisation, this class is a performing

ensemble. There will be concert as well as festival performances for this

group. In addition, this ensemble is in demand by the community for

performance dates. The Jazz Band consists of players for the trumpet,

trombone, saxophone, piano, bass, guitar, and drums.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): Instructor’s approval.

Marching Band

#2761 – S1

#2762 – S2

9 - 12

Semester

5 Credits

BHS

VHS

This course offers all eligible students the opportunity to participate in a

musical activity. This is a performing ensemble. Representing Buena and

the Ventura community, the marching band performs at football games,

parades, field show competitions, and some community events. Class

meetings occur outside of the regular school day. Attendance at two-week

Band Camp is required, unless excused by the Instructor. Concurrent

enrollment in Concert Band or Wind Ensemble is encouraged, but not

required.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Page 43: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

40

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Marching Band

(Color guard)

#7172 – S2

9 - 12

Semester

5 Credits

BHS

VHS

This course is a movement intensive study relative to contemporary

marching band music and popular music. This involves musical

interpretation, music history, dance expression and techniques within the

context of the contemporary Marching Band. Individually, students gain

knowledge of dance techniques, fine and gross motor skills, music

appreciation and analysis, composition, and musical experiences. In the

process of this exploration, students use skills in critical thinking, musical

analysis, musical interpretation, and physical skills. There are a number of

ensemble performances per semester, with on-going opportunities for

additional performances.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Global String

Ensemble

#7121 – S1

#7122 – S2

9 – 12

Year

10 Credits

VHS A string and brass ensemble which studies and performs traditional and

modern Mexican music. This course will include performances for special

occasions on and off campus.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Music Theory AP

#7034

11 – 12

Semester

5 Credits

BHS This course will develop the students competency in the ability to compose

a piece of Western Music, identify the major components of a piece of

music, understand all music terminology and expressive notation, analyze

and critique a performance of a musical piece and properly identify and

perform a musical expression. Students enrolled in this course are strongly

encouraged to take the Advanced Placement Examination provided by the

college Board.

PREREQUISITE(S): Completion of two years of musical study with a

grade of “C” or higher or admission by a test.

Oral Interpretation

#6411 – S1

#6412 – S2

9 – 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

FTHS

VHS

This course will help students develop an appreciation for theatre and skills

in the oral interpretation of dramatic literature, especially through the

medium of readers’ theatre and performance before a community audience.

Assessment criteria have been adapted from the California State Standards

in Visual Performing Arts and include: Individual and group projects with

rubric evaluation, individual written self-evaluation and individual and

group performance before a community audience.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Spectrum of Music

(Music Theory)

#7114

9 - 12

Semester

5 Credits

BHS This course will provide the students with a general knowledge of Western

music and its impact on society. Students will identify the major

components of a piece of music, understand music terminology and

expressive notation, analyze and critique a performance of a musical piece

and recognize the connection between music and the world.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Page 44: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

41

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Stagecraft

#6391 – S1

#6392 – S2

#6397 – S1 SDAIE

#6398 – S2 SDAIE

9 - 12

Semester

or Year

5 or 10

Credits

BHS

VHS

This course is a class designed for students interested in the in-depth study

of the areas of set design, set building, lighting design, sound design, stage

management, costume design, and make-up design. Practical, hands-on

experience in each of these areas is available through completion of class

projects and study. Creative students interested in the behind-the-scenes

action of the theatre are encouraged to take this course.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): Instructor’s approval.

String Ensemble

#7041 – S1

#7042 – S2

9 – 12

Semester

or Year

5 or 10

Credits

BHS

VHS

This course is a comprehensive study of string instrumental music involving

musical interpretation, music history, and music performance within the

context of both the modern and historical string orchestra for the developing

player. String Ensemble is open to all students with at least a minimal prior

instrumental instruction. Individually students gain knowledge on

instrumental expertise, music theory, music appreciation and analysis,

composition, and music expression.

PREREQUISITE(S): Instructor’s approval.

String Orchestra

#7041 – S1

#7042 – S2

9 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

VHS

This course is an instrumental performing ensemble involving string

instruments. The course is open to students playing the violin, viola, cello

and string bass. The String Orchestra emphasizes concert literature and

instrumental technique. Music literature covers styles from Baroque to

Modern. Both solo and ensemble playing are a requirement. The String

Orchestra performs at concerts and festivals.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): Instructor’s approval.

Symphonic Band

#7101 – S1

#7102 – S2

9 – 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

VHS

In this course students will develop competency performing with a single

instrument of the student’s choice. Students will develop the ability to

sight-read a piece of music, identify major components of a piece of music,

understand all music terminology and expressive notation, analyze and

critique a performance of musical piece and successfully perform a piece of

music from varied eras and genres.

PREREQUISITE(S): Instructor’s approval.

Symphonic

Orchestra

#7091 – S1

#7092 – S2

9 – 12

Semester

or Year

5 or 10

Credits

BHS This course will develop the student’s competency in the performance of a

single instrument of the student’s choice. Students will learn to sight-read a

piece of music, identify the major components of a piece of music,

understand all music terminology and expressive notation, successful

performance of music from varied eras and genres, and understand the place

of music in our history.

PREREQUISITE(S): Audition process and Instructor’s approval.

Page 45: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

42

Fine Arts - Visual

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Art 1A

#6004

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 12

Semester

5 Credits

BHS

ECHS

This course is the 1st Semester of the Art I – Introduction to Art as described

below.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Art 1 –

Introduction to Art

#6001 – S1

#6002 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

ECHS

FTHS

PHS

VHS

This course is designed to introduce students to the basic elements of art

(line, symmetry, value, positive/negative space, composition). Sequential

studies are developed involving projects that are designed to help the

students learn to “see” in visual art terms. Basic concepts include the

elements of design, color, drawing and painting. This program includes

studies in art history, art appreciation and critical valuing.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Art 2 – Drawing

and Painting

#6011 – S1

#6012 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

10 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

ECHS

FTHS

PHS

VHS

This course stresses the study of observational drawing and painting,

covering life studies including anatomy to still lives to landscapes.

Materials include pencil, pen, charcoal, pastels, acrylic paints, collage, and

mixed media. Students are required to keep a sketchbook with weekly

assignments, and organize their work into a portfolio. Portraiture is

emphasized both realistically and expressively.

UC/CSU Accepted (not at ECHS)

PREREQUISITE(S): A “C” or higher grade in Art 1 or Instructor’s

approval.

Art 3 – Portfolio

#6021 – S1

#6022 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

11 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

FTHS

VHS

This course is an in-depth course of study for students who are seriously

considering a career in the arts, or who truly enjoy the art and want to

continue their studies. Students are required to keep a weekly sketchbook

and visit a gallery/museum with a report each semester and keep an

organized portfolio. Class field trips are arranged when applicable.

Students will be an integral part of the student art show in May, learning

how to frame work, set a show, and host a reception. Students will be

introduced to acrylic paint and painting on canvases and problem solving

inquire. Art history continues to be interwoven.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): A “C” or higher grade in Art 2 and/or Instructor’s

approval.

Page 46: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

43

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

AP Studio Art: 2D

Design

#6031 – S1

#6032 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

11 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

VHS

FTHS

Art 3 AP students follow the course outline for Art 3 – Portfolio, but in

addition students complete an AP portfolio in either 3-D or drawing. This

requirement consists of 24 slides ($15 fee) taken by the instructor and five

original pieces. Extra-work on the student’s own time is expected in order

to complete the AP exam requirements. In order to receive AP credit

students must take the AP Test. Those students who do not take the AP Test

receive honors credit.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Art 2 and Instructor’s

approval.

Art 4

#6121 – S1

#6122 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

Art 4 students continue their exploration into various mediums. Whereas

assignments continue to be teacher driven, it is anticipated that students will

develop a personal orientation in their work. Art 4 students will also keep

sketchbooks, develop portfolios and visit galleries. Field trips will be a part

of each semester and these students will be the key players in arranging the

art show. Career possibilities are examined and assistance is given to

college applications. Students will be involved in painting self-portraits,

expressive figures, landscapes and still lives.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Art 3 and Instructor’s

approval.

AP Studio Art:

Drawing

#6041 – S1

#6042 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

VHS

FTHS

This course is identical to Art 4 with the addition of the preparation of 24

slides and five original works for the AP exam.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): “B” or higher grade in Art 3 or 3 AP and

Instructor’s approval.

Page 47: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

44

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Art Appreciation

#6181 – S1

#6182 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 12

Semester/

Year

5 or 10

Credits

BHS

ECHS

This course will provide a survey of the major visual art developments from

cave painting to contemporary forms of expressions. Multi-cultural studies

are also introduced. Methods and materials used by artists will be explored

and students will develop skills in perception and aesthetics, relating past

historical eras to the present. Students will examine the progress of art

expression in the context of discoveries in literature, music, and science

providing links between art and society on many levels. Guest lecturers will

be utilized wherever possible. There will be some hands-on art

assignments.

UC/CSU Accepted (not at ECHS)

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Advanced Digital

Photography

#6141 – S1

#6142 – S2

10 - 12

Year

10 Credits

FTHS

VHS

This course is designed for the student who desires to continue building

their photography skills and personal photography portfolio. Work will

balance between teacher assigned and personally designed projects. Each

student will write project proposals for instructor approval and complete the

projects independently.

PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Art 1 and Digital

Photography and instructor’s approval.

Digital

Photography

#6131 – S1

#6132 – S2

#6134

Not repeatable for

credit

10 - 12

Semester/

Year

5 or 10

Credits

BHS

FTHS

VHS

This is an introductory photography course designed to help the student use

photography as a form of expression. A variety of styles and categories of

photography will be examined as well as the use and modification of

different lighting styles. Students will be using Adobe Photoshop to

enhance, edit, and manipulate their images. Although it is not required,

owning a digital camera for personal use in the class will help the student.

Cameras are available for checkout, but there is a limited supply. The class

is designed as a digital class; however, the option of using traditional

camera is available.

PREREQUISITE(S): Technology Literacy 1 and Art 1 are

recommended.

Page 48: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

45

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Multicultural Art

#6081 – S1

#6082 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 12

Year

10 Credits

VHS

This course will introduce various cultures around the world as seen through

their rich art contribution. Students will explore 2 and 3 dimensional forms

that include painting and sculpture. Materials explored include projects that

use plaster, clay, dyes, painting, inks, yarns and natural materials. Art

appreciation and history are woven into the course as a base for

understanding each culture. Written work employs the Internet and library

for occasional research papers.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): One year of Visual Arts or Instructor approval.

Computer literacy skills recommended.

Sculptural Arts

#6104 – SM

10 – 12

Semester

5 Credits

VHS Students will study different sculpting techniques used by different cultures

throughout history. Students will be exposed to and learn the following:

Knowledge of Art History, Understanding of Art and its role in society,

Personal growth through journals, Craftsmanship and tool safety, Sculpture

techniques.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Sculptural Arts

#6101 – S1

#6102 – S2

10-12

Year

10 Credits

VHS Students will study different sculpting techniques used by different cultures

throughout history. Students will be exposed to and learn the following:

Knowledge of Art History, Understanding of Art and its role in society,

Personal growth through journals, Craftsmanship and tool safety, Sculpture

techniques.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): One year of Visual Arts or Instructor approval.

Computer literacy skills recommended.

Three-Dimensional

Art

#6050

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 12

Semester

5 Credits

BHS

This course is planned to investigate 3-D creative models, color wheels,

color mixing and color schemes, paper mache construction, acrylic plastic,

plaster carving and possibly a project with clay. Self-directed projects may

be done by researching techniques and providing your own materials

purchased outside school. There will be use of some power tools and

instruction in safety involved.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Page 49: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

46

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Three-Dimensional

Art 1

#6071 – S1

#6072 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

The first semester of this course parallels the Three-Dimensional Art 1A:

Sculpture and Crafts Course. During the second semester of this course

activities include projects on a more sophisticated level. The emphasis will

be on ceramics (clay) and the preparation of ceramics, hand-building

techniques, and decoration will be covered. There is an emphasis on

imaginative design and a high degree of craftsmanship on all projects.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Quilt making and

Design

#6191 – S1

#6192 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 12

Year

10 Credits

ECHS

Students will learn basic sewing techniques and the use of quilting

equipment to design and construct quilts. After students have gained

knowledge of fabrics, color and design, they will make their own quilts.

Students will learn and apply the basic principles of quilt construction:

patchwork, layering, quilting, appliqué, labeling and binding. Students will

also understand the historical contributions and cultural dimensions of

quilting and know how to value a quilt.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Visual Performing

Arts

#6341 – S1

#6342 – S2

9 - 12

Semester/

Year

5 or 10

Credits

ECHS

This is a survey course for students to develop an understanding and

appreciation for the theory and practice of the visual and performing arts.

The art disciplines may include dance, music, theater, visual and textile arts.

Students will learn to understand and appreciate the arts in historical and

cultural contexts. Each art discipline contains a distinct body of k

knowledge and skills that enable students to understand and appreciate their

world.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Visual

Communications 1

(VisCom)

#6301 – S1

#6302 – S2

9 - 12

Semester/

Year

5 or 10

Credits

BHS

VHS

This course is designed to give students experience and training in recording

and editing digital video with the goal towards the end of completing video

projects. It is an introductory course that acquaints the student with various

forms of modern presentation media: video production, multi-image slide

shows, video, videotape editing, computer graphics, audio mixing, and A.V.

computer programming. Students receive instruction and make movies

using Adobe Photoshop, Premiere, After Effects or Apple’s Final cut Pro

Software. Students learn how to handle and use digital video cameras,

firewire drives, and mini-DV cassettes. Students also learn to brainstorm,

storyboard, write copy, and work collaboratively as part of the movie or

news making process.

PREREQUISITE(S): Education in the Digital Age I (required) and

Education in the Digital Age II recommended for FTHS.

Visual

Communications 2

(VisCom)

#6311 – S1

#6312 – S2

11 - 12

Semester/

Year

5 or 10

Credits

BHS This course is primarily centered on the studio production of Buena High

School’s news program and the production of a segment of MS-NBC’s

“Education Showcase” that airs nationwide. Opportunities to intern in local

cable TV studios will be available to top students in this course.

Participation in activities outside of regular class hours is required.

PREREQUISITE(S): “B” or higher grade in VisCom 1 and other

exceptional students that have obtained outside experience in video

production (with instructor’s approval).

Page 50: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

47

Health Science

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Health Science

#7504

#7514 SDAIE

#7504S—Spanish

(VHS only)

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 12

Semester

5 Credits

BHS

ECHS

FTHS

PHS

VHS

The purpose of this course will be to introduce a number of health related

topics to the students and demonstrate their importance in his/her daily life.

Students will be introduced to two major concepts: their health is largely a

matter of their own responsibility and the choices they make about their own

lifestyle during their teenage years will have important long term effects on

their health. Six units will include personal health, physical fitness,

nutrition, communication skills/mental and emotional health, drug

information, and family life education. Additionally, students will learn to

improve their communication, social, and study skills.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Page 51: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

48

History/Social Science

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Geography

#1804

Not repeatable for

credit

9

Semester

5 Credits

ECHS

PHS

This course is designed to discuss the relationships between geography,

history, economics, politics, culture, and current world developments. In

addition, this one semester course is designed to show students what a

pivotal role geography plays in our lives. Physical and cultural geography

will be emphasized along with the five themes of geography – location,

place, human-environment interactions, movement, and regions.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Geography

#1814

#1824 – SDAIE

#1814S- Spanish

(VHS only)

Not repeatable for

credit

9

Semester

5 Credits

BHS

ECHS

FTHS

PHS

VHS

This course is designed to familiarize students with the nature of geography,

the explanation of geographic terms, and the description of geographic tools

and methodologies. The relationships between geography, history,

economics, politics, culture, and current world developments will be

explored. Physical and cultural geography will be emphasized along with

the development of the relationship between the physical environment and

the way people live, think, behave, and work.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

World History,

Cultures, and

Geography

#1525 – S1

#1526 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

10

Year

10 Credits

BHS

ECHS

PHS

This course will cover the major turning points that shaped the modern

world: The foundations of democratic ideals in the ancient world,

democratic revolutions and cultural changes in Europe, then continuing into

the late 18th

century through the present, including the cause and course of

the two world wars. Students will trace the rise of democratic ideas and

develop an understanding of the historical roots of current world issues,

especially as they pertain to international relations. Students will consider

multiple accounts of events in order to understand international relations

from a variety of perspectives.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

World History,

Cultures, and

Geography P

#1531 – S1

#1532 – S2

#1537 – S1 SDAIE

#1538 – S2 SDAIE

Not repeatable for

credit

10

Year

10 Credits

BHS

ECHS

FTHS

PHS

VHS

This course will cover the major turning points that shaped the modern

world: The foundations of democratic ideals in the ancient world,

democratic revolutions and cultural changes in Europe, then continuing into

the late 18th

century and through to the present, including the cause and

course of the two world wars. Students will trace the rise of democratic

ideas and develop an understanding of the historical roots of current world

issues, especially as they pertain to international relations. Students will

consider multiple accounts of events in order to understand international

relations from a variety of perspectives.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Page 52: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

49

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

World History,

Cultures, and

Geography H

#1551 – S1

#1552 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

10

Year

10 Credits

ECHS

FTHS

VHS

This course will cover the major turning points that shaped the modern

world: The foundations of democratic ideals in the ancient world,

democratic revolutions and cultural changes in Europe, then continuing into

the late 18th

century through the present, including the cause and course of

the two world wars. Students will trace the rise of democratic ideas and

develop an understanding of the historical roots of current world issues,

especially as they pertain to international relations. Students will consider

multiple accounts of events in order to understand international relations

from a variety of perspectives. Summer reading required.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): Prior “A” or “B” grades in History/Social Science

classes, teacher recommendations, and completion of an

application/evaluation process.

AP European

History

#1791 – S1

#1792 – S2

10 – 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

AP European History is a college-level survey course that introduces

students to the political, cultural, social and intellectual heritage of Europe

from the late medieval period (1450) to the present. This course is an

introduction to the period of events, ideas and developments that have

created the modern world; specifically, the 1400’s to modern times. The

themes that AP European History will focus on will be social structure,

“body politic”, technology, gender roles/family, war, religion, and culture.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): Prior grades in World History, Cultures, and

Geography, United States History and Geography, counselor and teacher

recommendations.

United States

History and

Geography

#1571 – S1

#1572 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

11

Year

10 Credits

BHS

ECHS

PHS

Following a review of the nation’s beginnings and impact of the

Enlightenment on the U. S. democratic ideals, students will learn that the

United States has served as a model for other nations and that the rights and

freedoms we enjoy are not accidents, but the results of a defined set of

political principles that are not always basic to citizens of other countries.

Students will understand that our rights under the U. S. Constitution

comprise a precious inheritance that depends on an educated citizenry for

their preservation and protection.

PREREQUISITE(S): Prior grades in World History, Cultures, and

Geography, counselor and teacher recommendations.

United States

History and

Geography P

#1581 – S1

#1582 – S2

#1587 – S1 SDAIE

#1588 – S2 SDAIE

Not repeatable for

credit

11

Year

10 Credits

BHS

ECHS

FTHS

PHS

VHS

Following a review of the nation’s beginnings and impact of the

Enlightenment on the U. S. democratic ideals, students will learn that United

States has served as a model for other nations and that the rights and

freedoms we enjoy are not accidents, but the results of a defined set of

political principles that are not always basic to citizens of other countries.

Students will understand that our rights under the U.S. Constitution

comprise a precious inheritance that depends on an educated citizenry for

their preservation and protection.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): Prior grades in World History, Cultures, and

Geography, counselor and teacher recommendations.

Page 53: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

50

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

AP United States

History

#1591 – S1

#1592 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

11

Year

10 Credits

BHS

FTHS

VHS

This course is designed to provide students with the analytic skills and

factual knowledge necessary to deal critically with the problems and

materials in U.S. History. This course prepares students for intermediate

and advanced college courses by making demands upon them equivalent to

those made by full-year introductory college courses. Students will develop

the skills necessary to arrive at conclusions on the basis of an informed

judgment and to present reasons and evidence clearly and persuasively in

essay format Students enrolled in this course are strongly encouraged to

take the Advanced Placement Examination provided by the College Board.

Summer reading required.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): Prior grades of “A” or “B” in World History,

Cultures, and Geography, counselor and teacher recommendations.

Economics

#1614

#1619 SDAIE

Not repeatable for

credit

12

Semester

5 Credits

BHS

ECHS

FTHS

PHS

VHS

This course is designed to cover the California Economic Standards in a

way that is accessible for the all students. Students will understand common

economic terms and concepts and economic reasoning. Students will

analyze the elements of the U.S. market economy in a global setting, the

influence of the U.S. government on the American economy and the

elements of the U.S. labor market. Students will study issues of

international trade, and explain how the U.S. economy affects and is

affected by economic forces beyond its borders.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Economics H

#1594

Not repeatable for

credit

12

Semester

5 Credits

FTHS

Students in this course will study economic concepts, applying tools

(graphs, statistics, equations) from other subject areas to the understanding

of operations and institutions of economic systems. Studied in an historic

context are the basic economic principles of micro and macroeconomics,

international economics, comparative economics systems, measurement,

and methods. Students will understand common economic terms and

concepts and economic reasoning and they will analyze the elements of the

United States market economy in a global setting. This course will integrate

a grade level project, participation in and completion of the grade level

project is required to pass this course.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): Prior grades in United States History and

Geography, counselor and teacher recommendations.

Economics B

#1618 – SM

Not repeatable for

credit

12

Semester

5 Credits

ECHS This course is designed to cover the California Economics Standards in a

way that is accessible for Independent Study students. Students will

understand common economic terms and concepts. An emphasis will be

placed on the similarities, differences and roles of local, state, federal and

global economies.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Page 54: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

51

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

AP Economics

#1624

Not repeatable for

credit

12

Semester

5 Credits

BHS

VHS

Students in this course will rigorously study the economic concepts,

applying the tools (graphs, statistics, equations) from other subject areas to

the understanding of operations and institutions of economic systems.

Studied in an historic context are the basic economic principles of micro and

macroeconomics, international economics, comparative economics systems,

measurement, and methods. Students will understand common economic

terms and concepts and economic reasoning and they will analyze the

elements of the United States market economy in a global setting. Students

enrolled in this course are strongly encouraged to take the Advanced

Placement Examination provided by the College Board.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): Prior grades of “A” or “B” in United States History

and Geography, counselor and teacher recommendations.

American

Democracy

#1634

Not repeatable for

credit

12

Semester

5 Credits

ECHS

PHS

In this course students will pursue a deeper understanding of the institutions

of American government. They compare systems of government in the

world today and analyze the history and changing interpretations of the

Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the current state of the legislative,

executive and judiciary branches of government. An emphasis is placed on

analyzing the relationship among federal, state, and local governments, with

particular attention paid to important historical documents such as the

Federalist Papers. This course should be viewed as the culmination of the

civic literacy strand that prepares students to vote, to reflect on the

responsibilities of citizenship, and to participate in community activities.

This course is structured with an emphasis on individualized instruction.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

American

Democracy P

#1644

#1649 SDAIE

Not repeatable for

credit

12

Semester

5 Credits

BHS

ECHS

FTHS

PHS

VHS

In this course students will pursue a deeper understanding of the institutions

of American government. They compare systems of government in the

world today and analyze the history and changing interpretations of the

Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the current state of the legislative,

executive and judiciary branches of government. An emphasis is placed on

analyzing the relationship among federal, state, and local governments, with

particular attention paid to important historical documents such as the

Federalist Papers. This course should be viewed as the culmination of the

civic literacy strand that prepares students to vote, to reflect on the

responsibilities of citizenship, and to participate in community activities.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Page 55: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

52

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

AP United States

Government and

Politics

#1654

Not repeatable for

credit

12

Semester

5 Credits

BHS

FTHS

VHS

AP Government is a rigorous course which is designed to equip students

with the analytical skills to successfully compete at the college level. The

course begins with constitutional underpinnings, the importance of a

Federalist system and how separation of powers and checks and balances

enhances a republic. Students will also study the importance of political

parties, the influence of the media on elections, and voting laws and voting

behavior of American citizens. There is a large emphasis in the course on

the four basic institutions of government: Congress, the President, the

Supreme Court and the Federal Bureaucracy. Students will also learn how

to analyze court cases and understand the deliberative process in

determining our civil liberties. Students enrolled in this course are strongly

encouraged to take the Advanced Placement Examination provided by the

College Board.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): Prior grade of “A” or “B” in United States History

and Geography, and counselor or teacher recommendations.

California History

#1844

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 12

Semester

5 Credits

VHS

This course will explore the differences between northern and southern

California, share current events that affect California and do research

creating individual projects. In addition, this course will study the history of

Ventura County while concentrating on the Oxnard and Ventura areas.

PREREQUISITE(S): None

Criminal Justice

#1674

Not repeatable for

credit

11 - 12

Semester

5 Credits

BHS

ECHS

VHS

This is a survey that studies various aspects of the criminal justice system

including; the history of crime, criminal behavior, issues in the law

including search and seizure and due process, court proceedings, the role of

police in society, corrections, and controversies surrounding the death

penalty. The course includes participation in mock trial, field trips,

miscellaneous guest speakers, various projects, and group work. This

course contains mature content and is not recommended for all students.

PREREQUISITE(S): Must be 16 years old and high degree of interest.

Introduction to

Philosophy

#1894

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 12

Semester

5 Credits

BHS

ECHS

This introductory course will provide a brief and challenging study of the

various major topics in the study of philosophy, including logic, a history of

philosophic thought, major philosophers, ethics and ethical theory, and

concluding with a discussion of contemporary issues.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

History and

Appreciation of

American Music

#1871 – S1

#1872 – S2

11 - 12

Year

10 Credits

ECHS

VHS

This course is an enjoyable and interesting way to expose students to new

cultures as well as to teach a social history of America through music. The

goals of this course are: Cultural awareness; teaching history through

musical expression; helping students understand that artistic expression is

directly influenced by events in society.

PREREQUISITE(S): U.S. History or concurrently enrolled in U.S. History.

Page 56: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

53

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Psychology

#1691 – S1

#1692 – S2

#1694 - SM

Not repeatable for

credit

11 - 12

Semester/

Year

5 - 10

Credits

BHS

ECHS

FTHS

PHS

VHS

This general psychology course is designed to provide students an in-depth

understanding of the study of human behavior. In an effort to understand

why people do what they do, emphasis will be placed on the principles of

learning, the influences of heredity and environment on personalities and

behavior, and the problems of mental health in society. The course also

emphasizes the development of the individual and attempts to help the

student understand himself/herself in relation to other people. This includes

the study of problems arising in dating, marriage, and human relations.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

AP Psychology

#1851 – S1

#1852 – S2

11 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

FTHS

VHS

Psychology AP is the equivalent of an introductory college course in

Psychology. It is designed to introduce students to the systematic and

scientific study of the behavior and mental processes of human beings.

UC/CSU Accepted PREREQUISITE(S): Students must be willing to accept the challenge of

a rigorous curriculum and show an interest in the course material.

Sociology

#1714 - SM

Not repeatable for

credit

11 - 12

Semester

5 Credits

BHS

ECHS

Students are introduced to sociological concepts, theories and procedures.

Students will study how people interact with one another and learn about

relationships within and between social groups. The primary focus of this

class is on gaining an understanding of why we behave as we do using

social theory and applies it to present day cases. Students will study

different cultures, group pressures towards conformity, deviant behavior and

mass media. Special emphasis will be given to a study of prejudice and

discrimination in contemporary America.

UC/CSU Accepted (not at ECHS)

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

History Seminar

#1761 – S1

#1762 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

12

Semester/

Year

5 - 10

Credits

VHS

This course is designed to capitalize on the interest of college-bound seniors

and improve their research skills. Under the guidance of an instructor,

students will select a subject (World or United States History) or focus area,

develop research questions, locate sources and write a MINI university style

paper. California and local history will be encouraged. The students will

meet once a week during a zero or seventh period to discuss their projects.

Field trips to the UCSB library, the Ventura County Museum of History and

Art, and other local history sites are planned. This course does NOT replace

the World History (10th

Grade) or United States History (11th

Grade)

requirement.

PREREQUISITE(S): Instructor’s approval.

Page 57: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

54

Mathematics

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Math Intervention

#2054 - SM

9 – 12

Semester

5 Credits

BHS

ECHS

PHS

VHS

Math Intervention is for elective credit only and is designed to provide

students who are struggling with mathematics additional support and

guidance. Teachers help each student design an individual action plan to

identify and address those specific areas where the student needs assistance.

PREREQUISITE(S): Teacher recommendation.

California Standards Test: N/A

Algebra 1A

#2051A – S1

#2051B – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

9

Year

10 Credits

ECHS

PHS

VHS

Algebra 1A is the first year of a two-year Algebra 1 course. Algebra 1 is

spread out over a term of two years instead of one and is taught at a reduced

pace with a variety of instructional strategies that allows for topic

reinforcement and additional practice. Successful completion of Algebra

1A and 1B satisfies the California Graduation requirement for Algebra 1.

California Standards Test: General Math

Algebra 1B

#2052A – S1

#2052B – S2

#2058A – S1 SDAIE

#2058B – S2 SDAIE

Not repeatable for

credit

9 – 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

9th

grade

only

ECHS

PHS

VHS

Algebra 1B is the second year of a two-year Algebra 1 course and is taken

after the successful completion of Algebra 1A. This course is taught at a

reduced pace and with a variety of instructional strategies that allow for

topic reinforcement and additional practice. Successful completion of

Algebra 1A and 1B satisfies the California Graduation requirement for

Algebra 1.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Algebra 1A or teacher

recommendation.

California Standards Test: Algebra 1

Algebra 1A/1B

Block

#2051BLK – S1

#2052BLK – S2

9 – 10

Year

20 Credits

ECHS

Algebra 1A/1B Block is taken during a two-period block class (Algebra 1A

- Semester 1 and Algebra 1B – Semester 2). The content of the curriculum

is aligned to the Algebra 1 Content Standards. Successful completion of

Algebra 1A and 1B satisfies the California Graduation requirement for

Algebra 1.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): Teacher or Counselor recommendation.

California Standards Test: Algebra 1

Page 58: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

55

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Algebra 1

#2051 – S1

#2052 – S2

#2057 – S1 SDAIE

#2058 – S2 SDAIE

#2057S – Spanish

#2058S – Spanish

(Spanish course only

available at VHS)

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

ECHS

FTHS

PHS

VHS

Through the study of algebra, a student develops an understanding of the

symbolic language of mathematics and the sciences. In addition, algebraic

skills and concepts are developed and used in a wide variety of problem-

solving situations.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Algebra Readiness and

teacher approval.

California Standards Test: Algebra 1

Math Topics

#2491 – S1

#2492 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

11 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

ECHS

PHS

VHS

This course will help students obtain the necessary skills to prepare for the

CAHSEE, CST and College/University Entrance Exams.

PREREQUISITE(S): Teacher/counselor recommendation

California Standards Test: Not Applicable

Algebra/Geometry

Concepts

#2241 –S1

#2242 - S2

Not repeatable for

credit

10 – 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

VHS

ECHS

Algebra/Geometry Concepts is for the student that has completed Algebra

1 but has not met the prerequisite for Geometry. This course will review

Algebra 1 topics, revisit prerequisite Geometry skills and introduce topics

from Geometry.

PREREQUISITE(S): Teacher/counselor recommendation

California Standards Test: Integrated Math 1

Focus on Geometry

#2201 – S1

#2202 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

10 – 12

Year

10 Credits

ECHS

PHS

Focus on Geometry is as activity-based course, which is for students who

want to learn geometry in a different way. The state geometry standards

will be taught with a discovery approach that will use some technology

(Geometer Sketchpad) and prepares students to take other additional

advanced college preparatory math classes.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): Teacher or counselor recommendation.

California Standards Test: Geometry

Geometry

#2061 – S1

#2062 – S2

#2067 – S1 SDAIE

#2068 – S2 SDAIE

Not repeatable for

credit

9 – 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

ECHS

FTHS

PHS

VHS

Geometry develops skills and concepts that are useful to all students.

Aside from learning these skills and concepts, students will develop their

ability to construct formal, logical arguments and proofs in geometric

settings and problems.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Algebra 1 or teacher

approval.

California Standards Test: Geometry

Page 59: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

56

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Geometry H

#2071 – S1

#2072 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

9 – 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

FTHS

VHS

Geometry H is designed to meet the needs of the more accelerated learner

in mathematics and is the beginning course in the honors math program.

Enriched plane and solid geometry is covered as well as an introduction to

trigonometry during second semester

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): A grade of an “A” in Algebra 1 and teacher

recommendation.

California Standards Test: Geometry

Intermediate

Algebra

#2221 – S1

#2222 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

10 – 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

ECHS

FTHS

VHS

Intermediate Algebra is for the student that has completed both Algebra 1

and Geometry but is not prepared to take Algebra 2. The course will

review some key Algebra 1 standards before covering key Algebra 2

standards. Students that master this course will gain experience in various

content areas, including systems of equations, logarithmic and exponential

functions, the binomial theorem and the complex number system. More

advanced Algebra 2 standards will be taught in the companion course,

College Algebra/Trig.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Algebra 1 or Algebra 1B

and Geometry or Focus on Geometry.

California Standards Test: Algebra 2

Algebra 2

#2081 – S1

#2082 – S2

#2087 – S1 SDAIE

#2088 – S2 SDAIE

Not repeatable for

credit

9 – 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

ECHS

FTHS

PHS

VHS

Algebra 2 expands the mathematical content of Algebra 1 and Geometry.

Students will gain experience with algebraic solutions of problems in

various content areas, including the solution of systems of quadratic

equations, logarithmic and exponential functions, the binomial theorem,

and the complex number system.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Algebra 1 and Geometry

or teacher approval.

California Standards Test: Algebra 2

Algebra 2 H

#2091 – S1

#2092 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

9 – 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

FTHS

VHS

Algebra 2 H is the second course in the honors math sequence. The focus

of this course is advanced Algebra and students entering this course will be

expected to demonstrate creativity, imagination and have the ability to

apply Algebra in various situations. The course will emphasize the logical

deductive nature of Algebra and will develop probability, linear algebra

and analytical geometry. Implementation of current technology, such as

graphing calculators and computer-assisted instruction, will be used in the

development of the skills and concepts.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): “B” or higher grade in Geometry H; teacher

approval or a grade of an “A” in Geometry and teacher’s approval.

California Standards Test: Algebra 2

Page 60: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

57

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

College Algebra/

Trigonometry

#2171 – S1

#2172 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

11 – 12

Year

10 Credits

VHS College Algebra/Trigonometry is designed to be a bridge between Algebra

2 and Pre-calculus. In the first semester students will be exposed to

specific Algebra 2 standards that emphasize the higher level skills required

for Pre-calculus. In the second semester students will be introduced to

Trigonometry. A graphing calculator is suggested for this class.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Algebra 2 or Intermediate

Algebra or teacher recommendation.

California Standards Test: High School Summative Exam

Introduction to

Statistics

#2161 – S2

#2162 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

10 – 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

VHS

Introduction to Statistics will cover key elements of an introductory

statistics course: collecting, representing, and analyzing data obtained

from real sources; sampling of a population to ascertain its characteristics.

Students will use computer applications, graphing calculator, and current

events to fit models to data, make inferences, and test hypotheses.

Students will get out of the classroom in order to see the relevance of

statistical methods in the real world, in authentic settings.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Algebra 2

California Standards Test: High School Summative Exam

Trigonometry/Pre-

Calculus

#2101 – S1

#2102 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

10 – 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

FTHS

PHS

VHS

Trigonometry/Pre-Calculus is designed to prepare students for a course in

Calculus. To develop an appreciation of the methods and usefulness of

trigonometry, the major topics covered are inequalities, functions and

relations, the line, conic sections, transcendental functions, and polar

coordinates. Mastery in this course prepares the student for Calculus AB.

A graphing calculator is suggested for this class.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Algebra 2 or teacher

recommendation.

California Standards Test: High School Summative Exam

Page 61: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

58

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Trigonometry/Pre-

Calculus H

#2111 – S1

#2112 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

10 – 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

FTHS

VHS

Trigonometry/Pre-Calculus H is the same as Trigonometry/Pre-Calculus;

however, it is presented at an accelerated rate. This course prepares the

advanced student for a course in Calculus BC. Function mappings,

mathematical induction, trigonometric identities, limits, and an

introduction to calculus will be covered. A graphing calculator is

suggested for this class.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): A grade of an “A” in Algebra 2 or “B” or higher

grade in Algebra 2 H or teacher recommendation.

California Standards Test: High School Summative Exam

AP Calculus AB

#2141 – S1

#2142 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

11 – 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

FTHS

VHS

Calculus AB (AP) is the first of two choices in the culmination of the

honors math program. The student will learn to differentiate and integrate

algebraic, trigonometric, logarithmic and exponential functions.

Applications include tangents and normals to curves, maximum and

minimum, related rate, area, and volume problems. A graphing calculator

is required for this class. Students enrolled in this course are strongly

encouraged to take the Advanced Placement Examination provided by the

College Board.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Trigonometry/Pre-

Calculus and teacher approval.

California Standards Test: High School Summative Exam

AP Calculus BC

#2151 – S1

#2152 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

11 – 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

FTHS

VHS

Calculus BC (AP) is the second of two choices in the culmination of the

honors math program. The student will learn to differentiate all algebraic,

trigonometric, logarithmic, and exponential functions. The students will

also learn several of the standard forms and procedures for integration.

Applications include tangents and normals to curves, maximum and

minimum, areas, volumes, fluid pressure, polar curves, length of a path,

sequences, convergence, power series, and first order, linear differential

equations. A graphing calculator is required for this class. Students

enrolled in this course are strongly encouraged to take the Advanced

Placement Examination provided by the College Board.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): “B” or higher grade in Trigonometry/Pre-

Calculus H and teacher approval.

California Standards Test: High School Summative Exam

Page 62: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

59

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Accounting

#4654 - SM

Not repeatable for

credit

10 - 12

Semester

5 Credits

BHS

Students will learn to establish and maintain a set of accounting records for

a business. Topics covered include the accounting cycle – including the

use of journals, ledgers, and worksheets, preparation of income statements

and balance sheets and the specialized accounting function of payroll. In

addition to the accounting processes, this course includes banking

activities, the use of the 10-key calculator or 10-key pad and computer

application of financial information using Excel. This course is

recommended for students majoring in business and/or interested in

starting their own business.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

*This course is also listed in the Applied Arts – Business Section

California Standards Test: N/A

Career/Consumer

Math

#2301 – S1

#2302 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

9 – 12

Year

10 Credits

ECHS Career/Consumer Math is designed to help students develop an ability to

use math skills necessary to successfully participate in the adult

community. Students will work with whole numbers, fractions, decimals,

ratios, proportions, percents, graphs and charts, and apply all these to

everyday living. The second semester will cover units on banking,

earning, borrowing, and investing money, budgeting income,

transportation, statistics, housing, taxes and insurance. It will also include

a review of mathematical concepts relating to organizing data, using

formulas, estimation, and recreational activities. An emphasis will be

placed on applications rather than drills in mathematics.

IS THIS COURSE BEING OFFERED?

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

California Standards Test: N/A

AP Computer

Science A

#4551 – S1

#4552 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

10 – 12

Year

10 Credits

VHS Computer Science A (AP) is a first semester college course. This course is

designed to enable the students to code fluently in a well-structured

fashion using Java Script. The student will design and implement

computer based solutions in several application areas. This course

prepares the student for the Computer Science A exam. Course credits can

be applied to Applied Art requirements. Students enrolled in this course

are strongly encouraged to take the Advanced Placement Examination

provided by the College Board.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): “B” or higher grade in Geometry Honors or a

“C” or higher grade in Algebra II and/or teacher approval.

California Standards Test: N/A

Page 63: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

60

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Money Management

#4591 – S1

#4592 – S2

#4594 - SM

Not repeatable for

credit

12

Semester/

Year

5 or 10

Credits

BHS

ECHS

VHS

Math concepts are stressed in each unit, which helps prepare seniors for

living on their own. This course covers career exploration and application

of “income” in budgeting, paying and preparing taxes, check writing and

use of credit, investments and wise choices as a consumer. The purchase

of vehicles, insurance, appliances and other products are discussed.

Writing a resume, cover letter, job application and proper interview

techniques are part of the class portfolio. Travel and vacation planning is

presented by student groups using PowerPoint and students also turn in an

individual written report. Math credit may be earned for passing this

course.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

*Also listed in the Applied Business Section

California Standards Test: N/A

Page 64: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

61

Non-Departmental

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

AVID

(Advancement Via

Individual

Determination)

#8541 – S1

#8542 – S2

#8541A – S1 9th

#8541B – S1 10th

#8541C – S1 11th

#8541D – S1 12th

#8542A – S2 9th

#8542B – S2 10th

#8542C – S2 11th

#8542D – S2 12th

9 - 12

Semester/

Year

5 or 10

Credits

BHS

FTHS

VHS

This course is an academic regularly scheduled college preparatory

elective class, to prepare students for 4-year college entrance and

eligibility immediately after high school. AVID students are typically

those “in the middle” who are often underserved, underrepresented in

colleges and universities, come from a lower socioeconomic family

background, or the first potential college student in their family. AVID

functions to ensure that the enrolled student will succeed in a rigorous

curriculum, enter the mainstream activities of the school, and become

an educated and responsible participant and leader in a democratic

society, all the while preparing for college.

Selection and enrollment in the AVID program is by application,

teacher recommendation and an interview process. Since space is

limited, enrollment is selective and based on overall desire of the

student to succeed and commit to the program. Students willing to

remain in the AVID program through all years of high school will be

given serious consideration.

PREREQUISITE(S): Selection is based on eligibility, application,

and interview.

AVID Peer

Tutoring

#8531 – S1

#8532 – S2

11 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

VHS

This course is designed to use peer tutors in grades 11 or 12 to enhance

the skills of AVID students by modeling and leading an effective

tutorial group, developing higher order questioning techniques,

reviewing methods for working with students’ writings, and providing

an opportunity for tutors to discuss and solve problems with students in

the academic subject(s) of their strength. AVID Tutors will also help

AVID students with organizational skills, and evaluate Cornell notes

and binder organization. This course is highly recommended for

students who want to pursue working in the teaching field. It also

provides valuable experience that can be included in the tutor’s Senior

essay when applying for a 4-year college or university, as many

university campuses ask about an applicant’s experiences in programs

such as AVID. Students who enroll in this class must agree to

attend and complete a 16-hour AVID tutor-training workshop held

on two separate weekends.

PREREQUISITE(S): AVID teacher or AVID coordinator

recommendation required and concurrently enrolled in at least one

Advanced Placement Class.

Career Exploration

#8691 - S1

#8692 - S2

10-12

Semester/Year

5 to 10

Credits

VHS This course will help students learn job-related skills while completing

a community service or internship job. It is the student’s responsibility

to acquire the position, complete 75 hours of service with satisfactory

evaluations, and participate in one hour per week of instruction in

Career Exploration at school. Complies with the State guidelines for

Exploratory Work Experience.

PREREQUISITE(S): Instructor’s approval.

Page 65: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

62

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Careers/Internship

#8544 - SM

9 – 12

Semester

5 Credits

BHS

ECHS

FTHS

PHS

VHS

This course is designed to allow students an opportunity to explore

some of the possibilities that the world of work offers through

exploratory work experience and related activities. Mentors will

acquaint students with the positive and negative aspects of their

profession. Students are expected to arrive at the assignment on time

and ready to work. Participation is required. Students must conduct

themselves in a professional manner while on assignment. The mentor

will evaluate the student’s performance and complete an evaluation

form at the end of each semester.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Community

College Classes

#8811 – S1

#8812 – S2

#8831 - Year

11 – 12

BHS

ECHS

PHS

VHS

High school student may apply for enrollment in Ventura College

courses that are not offered in the high school curriculum. To be

considered, the student should have a high school grade point average

of at least a 2.50 and be able to maintain a minimum day schedule on

the high school campus. This model is known as the Middle College

High School Concept. Additionally, students are able to earn dual

credit for courses taken at Ventura College while attending high school

For more information regarding this option the student should see their

counselor. A Community College Course on the IGETC list will

receive honors credit.

PREREQUISITE(S): Counselor’s approval.

Community

Service/

Student Tutors

#8501 – S1

#8502 – S2

#8504 - SM

11 – 12

Semester/

Year

5 or 10

Credits**

BHS

ECHS

VHS

This course helps students develop skills, career awareness and self-

esteem. The integration of Community Service activities with the

curriculum enhances learning in all subject areas. Service

experiences can motivate students by letting them apply what they are

studying to local needs and problems and by showing them they can

make a contribution to their community. Students volunteer their

time at a non-profit organization such as Food Share, Red Cross,

hospitals, Meals-on-Wheels, Easter Seals, etc. The community

agency will provide students with meaningful tasks to perform and

ensure that there is a safe and supervised environment. The agency

will evaluate the student’s performance and complete an evaluation

form at the end of each semester. **

Credits will only be earned if student is supervised by a credentialed

person.

PREREQUISITE(S): Counselor’s approval.

May be taken for a maximum of 20 credits.

Directed Study

#D1254 – D9602

11 – 12

Semester/

Year

5 or 10

Credits

BHS

ECHS

PHS

VHS

These courses are designed for those students who intend to pursue an

advanced level of a particular subject area. Such enrollment implies

that the course involved for directed study is not offered as a class.

Students enrolled in directed study will pursue advanced study in an

independent manner under the direction of the teacher involved.

PREREQUISITE(S): Instructor’s approval.

Page 66: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

63

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Driver Education

#8311A

#8311B

#8311C

#8312A

#8312B

#8312C

9 - 12

6 Weeks

(30 hours)

2 Credits

BHS

This course is a classroom experience in which students study the

vehicle code, natural forces affecting the driver, causes and

consequences of traffic accidents and effects of drugs (including

alcohol) on the driver. Also, students will be prepared to take and pass

the permit test that is given at the DMV. It is hoped that every student

will acquire the knowledge and develop the attitudes that will help

him/her to be a safer driver of an automobile and a better pedestrian.

PREREQUISITE(S): Age requirement (15 years 6 months by the

end of the class).

Leadership (ASB)

#8431 – S1

#8432 – S2

9 – 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

ECHS

FTHS

PHS

VHS

This course combines classroom instruction with leadership practices

in a laboratory of practical school situations. It provides student

leaders with the opportunity to study the basic concepts of democratic

government; the meaning and techniques of leadership, parliamentary

procedures, and group processes; the principles of human behavior; the

objectives of education and many of school administration. It provides

practice in democratic leadership in actual school situations, in

planning and organizing assemblies, fundraising, meetings, social and

recreational events, rallies, elections, service activities, community,

and other events. If affords student leaders opportunities to develop

speaking and writing skills; to improve in human relations, poise, and

appearance; to work with peers of diverse backgrounds and attitudes,

to share responsibilities with adults, and to consider problems dealing

with income and expenditures.

PREREQUISITE(S): Instructor’s approval.

Library Assistant

#8391 – S1

#8392 – S2

11 - 12

Semester/

Year

5 or 10

Credits

BHS

VHS

Library assistants learn skills that prepare them for future jobs

requiring accuracy, attention to detail and customer service. Students

will provide counter service, copying, answer phones and patron

requests, stock shelves, deliver materials including call slips, use

various computer programs and understand the classification system

and material arrangement in a library. A total of 20 units may be

earned as an office, library, or teacher assistant.

PREREQUISITE(S): Librarian and counselor approval required

prior to registration.

Office Assistant -

Administration

#8401 – S1

#8402 – S2

11 - 12

Semester/

Year

5 or 10

Credits

BHS

ECHS

FTHS

PHS

VHS

Students who plan to pursue careers in the clerical, office or business

fields will find working in the Administrative Office in one of our high

schools a valuable and rewarding experience. Students may be

assigned to a particular office only once; however, they may work in

several offices during their time in high school. Keyboarding/typing is

recommended, but not essential in all offices. A total of 20 units may

be earned as an office, library, or teacher assistant.

PREREQUISITE(S): Office supervisor’s approval required prior to

registration.

Page 67: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

64

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Office Assistant –

Student Services

#8421 – S1

#8422 – S2

11 - 12

Semester/

Year

5 or 10

Credits

FTHS

BHS

Assistants learn skills which prepare them for future jobs requiring

accuracy, attention to detail and customer service. Students will work

as an integral member of the Student Services team.

PREREQUISITE(S): Office supervisor’s approval required prior to

registration.

Teacher Assistant

#8951 – S1

#8952 – S2

11 - 12

Semester/

Year

5 or 10 Credits

BHS

FTHS

PHS

VHS

ECHS

The Teacher Assistant will aid the instructor by leading small group

classes in the subject, offering individual assistance to students, and

performing other necessary instructional functions such as conducting

drills, presenting data, operating visual aids, distributing and collecting

papers, and updating files of teaching materials. Good knowledge of

subject, good attendance, promptness, efficiency, and the genuine

desire to help fellow students are measures of ability as a Teaching

Assistant. A total of 20 units may be earned as an office, library, or

teacher assistant.

PREREQUISITE(S): Instructor’s approval required prior to

registration.

Work Experience

#8611 – S1

#8612 – S2

11 - 12

Semester/

Year

5 or 10 Credits

BHS

ECHS

VHS

This course provides maturing experiences for students through

supervised part-time employment as a part of their total school

program. In this program students learn desirable work habits,

attitudes and responsibilities, as well as how to work for and with other

people. The emphasis of work experience is to link the academic core

curriculum with the world of work. It assists students to develop skills,

habits and attitudes conducive to job success and personal growth; and

to help them choose and prepare realistically and wisely for careers.

This program combines on-the-job components with one-hour per

week work related classroom instruction. This course may be used for

Applied Arts credit.

PREREQUISITE(S): Existing position with employer meeting state

requirements for issuance of a Work Permit. A minimum of a 2.0

GPA, positive attendance from the previous semester and approval of

counselor and Work Experience supervisor will be required in order

to be enrolled.

Yearbook

#1371 – S1

#1372 – S2

9 – 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

ECHS

FTHS

PHS

VHS

This class is designed to give students instruction in the many facets

such as writing, organizing, photographing and assembling in the

creative development and actual publishing experience of the school

annual. In addition, the responsibility for sales and publicity falls to a

specific member of the class. Characteristics of accuracy initiative,

cooperation, responsibility and thoroughness are needed.

PREREQUISITE(S): Instructor’s approval

Page 68: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

65

Physical Education

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Physical

Education 1

#2501 – S1

#2502 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

9

Year

10 Credits

BHS

FTHS

PHS

VHS

This is one of the two required yearlong courses in physical education,

which is taken in 9th

grade. This class builds on the foundation of

knowledge and skill ability learned in middle school in the areas of team

sports, social development and interaction, movement skills and

knowledge, physical fitness components and training, self-image and

personal development. A physical fitness test is administered yearly and

the results are sent to the State Department of Education every other year.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Physical

Education 2

#2511 – S1

#2512 – S2

10

Year

10 Credits

BHS

FTHS

PHS

VHS

This course is the second year of the two-year requirement and builds on

the foundation of knowledge and skill developed in Physical Education I.

This class will focus on improving individual skills, team sports,

individual sports, physical fitness components and training. Students will

be given the opportunity to achieve and maintain a health-enhancing level

of physical fitness and design and execute a physical fitness program that

relates to total wellness. In addition students will be able to understand the

relationship between nutrition and a healthy lifestyle.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Adaptive Physical

Education

#8061 – S1

#8062 – S2

9 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

This course is for students whose physical impairments prevent them from

participating in regular physical education classes. Diagnosis by a

licensed physician is required. Instruction is highly individualized and

prescriptive, based upon a recommendation by the student’s physician or

by the school nurse after consultation with the doctor.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Independent Study

Physical Education

#2791 – S1

#2792 – S2

9 - 12

Year

10 Credits

ECHS

FTHS

PHS

Students MUST complete a signed contract and accrue a minimum of 60

hours for 5 credits at an off-campus business or organization to be

arranged by the parent/student. The business or organization must have

insurance and adult leadership. Any and all fees are the responsibility of

the parent/student.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Dance and

Rhythmics

#2951 – S1

#2952 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 12

Year

10 Credits

FTHS

PHS

VHS

This is an introductory class in which all dancers are welcome. Many

different styles of dance will be introduced, such as hip hop, jazz, and

ballet.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Page 69: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

66

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Advanced Dance

#2961 – S1

#2962 – S2

9 - 12

Year

10 Credits

FTHS

VHS

This class may be used for physical education, fine arts, or elective credit.

Students are taught higher-level dances and how to create their own

choreography.

PREREQUISITE(S): Dance and Rhythmics or instructor’s approval.

Physical Education

#2711 – S1

#2712 – S2

9 – 10

Year

10 Credits

FTHS This on-campus class is designed for 9th

and 10th

grade students. The

curriculum is segmented into daily components so that students stay

motivated and challenged. The first semester focus is on individual health

fitness, exercise science and goal setting, rhythms/dance,

running/jogging/walking, line dancing, folk dancing, jump rope, adventure

games and activities, partner competitive challenges (combatives), and

recreational sports. The second semester focus in on individual health

fitness, Fitnessgram preparation and monthly fitness plan, aerobic dance

and studio fitness (yoga, Pilates, etc.), aquatics, team building/cooperative

games, and recreational sports.

Additionally students must have a permission slip that allows them to walk

to local community facilities including Arroyo Verde Park and Ventura

Community College.

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

*In all physical education classes students have the option of earning 2.5 credits per quarter.

Page 70: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

67

Science

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Agriculture

Biology

#3221 – S1

#3222 – S2

#3227 – S1 SDAIE

#3228 – S2 SDAIE

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 12

Year

10 Credits

PHS

VHS

Biology is the study of life and its interactions. The state standards will be

covered, which include, but are not limited to cell biology, genetics,

evolution, ecology, physiology, and investigative processes. Laboratory

experience and the continued development of critical thinking skills are

integrated. Students will also participate in projects and leadership

activities through the Future Farmers of America (FFA)

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Biology

#3061 – S1

#3062 – S2

#3067 – S1 SDAIE

#3068 – S2 SDAIE

#3061S—Spanish

#3062S—Spanish

(Spanish only

offered at VHS)

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

ECHS

FTHS

VHS

Biology is the study of life and its interactions. The state standards will be

covered, which include, but are not limited to cell biology, genetics,

evolution, ecology, physiology, and investigative processes. Laboratory

experience and the continued development of critical thinking skills are

integrated.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Biology H

#3231 – S1

#3232 – S2

9 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

VHS

This honors level course will cover the following topics: 1) molecular and

cellular make-up of organisms, 2) how cells harness and use energy, 3)

reproductive processes by which cells and organisms multiply, 4) how

heredity information is used to build cellular and organismal structure 5)

the nature of evolution by natural selection, and its position as the central

idea in Biology that explains the unity and diversity of living things.

Students will prepare lab reports to demonstrate knowledge of scientific

method and how it applies to content. Students will use models and

simulations to learn, practice and apply content knowledge to real-world

applications. Students will write research papers to relate current advances

in biological sciences to course content material.

UC/CSU Accepted PREREQUISITE(S): Scores on the California Science Standards Test

of proficient or above and teacher or counselor recommendation.

AP Biology

#3211 – S1

#3212 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

11 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

FTHS

VHS

Biology AP is an introductory college level course covering those topics

introduced in Biology and Biology Honors, but in greater detail. Students

will do extensive reading, experimentation, and analysis, gaining the

conceptual framework, knowledge, and skills necessary for biologically

related college majors and subsequent work in the rapidly growing fields

of health sciences, environmental engineering or research. Students

enrolled in this course are strongly encouraged to take the Advanced

Placement Examination provided by the College Board.

UC/CSU Accepted PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Biology and Chemistry or

Chemistry in the Community and teacher recommendation.

Page 71: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

68

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Chemistry in the

Community

#3071 – S1

#3072 – S2

#3077 – S1 SDAIE

#3078 – S2 SDAIE

Not repeatable for

credit

10 - 12

Year

10 Credits

ECHS

VHS

This course enhances science literacy in a course that follows the impact of

chemistry on society. This course was developed to help students realize

the role chemistry will plan in their personal and professional lives and to

use the principles of chemistry to think more intelligently about current

social issues involving science and technology. In addition, the concepts

in biology, environmental science, and even politics are intertwined with

chemistry.

UC/CSU Accepted PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Algebra I or a qualifying

score on a placement test.

Chemistry

#3081 – S1

#3082 – S2

#3087 – S1 SDAIE

#3088 – S2 SDAIE

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

ECHS

FTHS

VHS

Chemistry is the study of the substances in our world and the factors that

influence their behavior. Students will learn how different chemicals react

and the factors that influence their behavior. Special attention will be paid

to the principles of atomic structure, matter-energy relationships, the mole

concepts, thermo-dynamics, and chemical equilibrium.

UC/CSU Accepted PREREQUISITE(S): “B” or higher grade in Biology, and concurrent

enrollment in Algebra 2 or higher, teacher recommendation or a

qualifying score on a placement test.

Chemistry H

#3091 – S1

#3092 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

10 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

FTHS

VHS

This is an advanced first year course in high school level chemistry, with

supplemental material at the college level. Whenever possible, principles

are illustrated by references to evidence obtained through experiments.

Development of problem solving techniques will be featured. Topics

include principles of atomic structure, matter-energy relationships, the

mole concepts, thermodynamics, chemical rates, chemical equilibrium,

and acid/base chemistry.

UC/CSU Accepted PREREQUISITE(S): “B” or higher grade in Biology, and concurrent

enrollment in Algebra 2 or higher, teacher recommendation or a

qualifying score on a placement test.

AP Chemistry

#3101 – S1

#3102 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

11 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

VHS

AP Chemistry is a college level general chemistry course preparing

students to enroll in more advanced chemistry courses, meet chemistry

prerequisites, or reserve free time for other college majors. Students will

obtain an in-depth understanding of chemical fundamentals and the ability

to solve chemical problems. Students will develop the ability to think

clearly and express ideas orally and in writing, helping students qualify for

and succeed in any future endeavors. Students enrolled in this course are

strongly encouraged to take the Advanced Placement Examination

provided by the College Board.

UC/CSU Accepted PREREQUISITE(S): “B” or higher grade Chemistry or Chemistry

Honors and one year of Physics or Physics AP.

Page 72: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

69

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Earth Science

#3031 – S1

#3032 – S2

#3037 – S1 SDAIE

#3038 – S2 SDAIE

Not repeatable for

credit

9

Year

10 Credits

ECHS

PHS

This course is intended for 9th

grade students and satisfies the one-year

physical science requirement for graduation. The students will examine

the earth in terms of its place in the solar system and universe, the

materials for which earth is made, and the forces at work to change the

earth’s surface, oceans, and weather. The students will develop an

understanding and appreciation of the world and the natural forces at work

in order to make aware decisions regarding environmental policy.

PREREQUISITE(S): None

Earth Science P

#3011 – S1

#3012 – S2

#3017 – S1 SDAIE

#3018 – S2 SDAIE

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

ECHS

VHS

In this course students will learn how astronomy and our solar system

changes over time. Chemistry and physics will be explored and how it

applies to earth science. The importance of the solar energy cycle, ocean

currents and its effect on global weather will be investigated and

examined. This course will include a cumulative final examination, a

research project, fieldtrip and video reports.

UC/CSU Accepted PREREQUISITE(S): None

AP Environmental

Science

#3261 – S1

#3262 – S2

11 – 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

VHS

This course will reach different demographics and provide another

advanced level science course for students. It will cover seven content

areas: Earth systems and resources; the living world; population; land and

water use; energy resources and consumption; pollution; and global

change. Students will be provided with scientific principles, concepts, and

methodologies to understand the inter-relationships of the Natural World.

UC/CSU Accepted PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Algebra I and

Life/Biological Science and Physical/Chemistry Science (desired)

Food and Nutrition

Science

#3401 – S1

#3402 – S2

10 – 12

Year

10 Credits

VHS This course is needed as part of the Culinary Arts Pathway sequence at

Ventura High School. Students will study physical and chemical

properties, changes, reactions and interactions of foods in food

preparations and human consumption. The scientific method is

emphasized in lab procedures and write-ups as the chemical and biological

bases of nutrition and food preparation, processing and preservation are

studied. Students will develop laboratory, writing, reasoning skills, and

critical thinking through measuring, recording data, graphing, predicting

and evaluating lab results and writing lab reports. Physical science credit

will be earned for passing this course.

UC/CSU Accepted PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Biology and Algebra 1 or

teacher recommendation

Forensic Science P

#3301 – S1

#3302 – S2

11 – 12

Year

10 Credits

ECHS

FTHS

Forensic science is the application of science to law. Forensic science

applies the knowledge and technology of science to the definition and the

enforcement of law. This course is an ideal way for students to take their

natural curiosity to practice science as inquiry. Elective credit will be

earned for passing this course.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): Algebra 1 and Biology or Life Science and

completed or concurrent Chemistry P or Chemistry in the Community

with a “C” or higher grade.

Page 73: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

70

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Introduction to

Engineering

#3281 – S1

#3282 – S2

10 – 12

Year

10 Credits

Physical

Science or

Applied

Arts

BHS This course is an introductory course in engineering. Students will be

exposed to a complete high-tech engineering curriculum that focuses on

the fundamentals of modern engineering and technology. The course will

include group/partner and individual project assignments involving

research, design, problem solving and presentations. Students will learn

first-hand how math and science can be used to create and design cell

phones, digital video, electronic music, and much more.

Prerequisite: Algebra 2 (or current enrollment), one lab science course.

Life Science/

Human Biology

#3001 – S1

#3002 – S2

#3007 – S1 SDAIE

#3008 – S2 SDAIE

Not repeatable for

credit

10

Year

10 Credits

ECHS

PHS

Life Science is the study of life and its interactions. The state standards

will be covered, which include cell biology, genetics, evolution, ecology,

physiology, and the investigative processes.

PREREQUISITE(S): None

Marine Biology P

#3111 – S1

#3112 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

10 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

ECHS

VHS

This course is designed to provide students the opportunity to study the

marine and coastal environments. Students will become familiar with the

various interactions between the abiotic and biotic factors in an ocean

ecosystem. Student topics will include the importance of oceans,

oceanography, food webs, water column, tide pools, kelp forests, fish,

mammals, coral reefs, sea birds, bottom living, and our impact on the

oceans. Genetic typing with the Coastal Marine Bio labs Barcode of Life

Initiative (GIS Mapping included).

UC/CSU Accepted PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Biology or Teacher’s

approval.

Physics

(Conceptual)

#3137 – S1

#3138 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

9

Year

10 Credits

BHS

FTHS

This course is a non-mathematical study of the forces and relationships

that are the foundation of our physical world and indeed our entire

universe. Understanding these fundamental concepts will enhance the

student’s ability to succeed in later science courses. Topics include

motion, forces, energy, matter wave dynamics, sound, light, electricity,

magnetism, and atomic structure. Students will participate in many hands-

on activities and in-class presentations.

UC/CSU Accepted PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Algebra I or IA.

Page 74: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

71

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Physics

#3121 – S1

#3122 – S2

#3167 – S1 SDAIE

#3168 – S2 SDAIE

Not repeatable for

credit

10 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

FTHS

VHS

This is a laboratory science course that is available for students who have a

strong background in mathematics. It is designed to provide students with

firm background in the scientific method of reasoning and an appreciation

for scientific attitudes. The course includes the study of mechanics, heat,

electricity and magnetism, the energy of waves and modern physics.

UC/CSU Accepted PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Chemistry, Algebra 2 and

teacher recommendation.

AP Physics B

#3131 – S1

#3132 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

11 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

FTHS

VHS

This is a first year university level physical science course. The topics of

study include kinematics, dynamics, thermodynamics, acoustics, fluids,

light and optics, electricity and magnetism, quantum mechanics and

relativity. The course is designed for the advanced high school student

who is motivated toward achieving critical thinking and problem solving

skills necessary to be better prepared for success in highly rigorous

university courses, particularly in impacted programs such as engineering,

pre-med and computer science. Students enrolled in this course are

strongly encouraged to take the Advanced Placement Examination

provided by the College Board.

UC/CSU Accepted PREREQUISITE(S): “B” or higher grade in Chemistry, Algebra 2 and

teacher recommendation.

Physiology P

#3141 – S1

#3142 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

10 - 12

Year

10 Credits

ECHS

VHS

This main objective of this study of human physiology is to understand the

functions and parts of each major organ and each system of the human

body. The fundamental concepts of diffusion, molecular interaction, the

nature of protoplasm, cellular activities, tissue structure, and the function

and inter-relation of all other systems of the human body will be studied.

With these concepts the student can better understand specific problems of

disease and health as they occur in his/her lifetime and also can develop

insights that will help in future life science courses. Laboratory work is an

integral part of this course.

UC/CSU Accepted PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Physiology H

#3151 – S1

#3152 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

11 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

FTHS

VHS

The objective of this course is to acquaint the student with how the human

body is structured and how it functions. Subject areas covered include the

general body systems: circulatory, respiratory, digestive, urinary,

integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, endocrine and reproductive.

In addition, the sciences of genetics, embryology, cytology (cells), and

histology (tissues) are studied. Disease and health aspects of these topics

are included. Laboratory work is a part of this course and includes much

work with the microscope and other equipment.

UC/CSU Accepted PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Biology, Chemistry or

Chemistry in the Community and teacher recommendation.

Page 75: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

72

Bioscience Academy (FTHS Only) – The Bioscience Academy is a specialized career path program within Foothill

Technology High School where students are accepted following an application and interview process. The main criterion

for acceptance into the Academy is a high degree of interest in a career in the biosciences. Students in the Academy must

participate in all job shadows and internship programs and are required to maintain a minimum overall Grade Point

Average (GPS) of 2.0. The following course is the first in a series of five specialized courses over a three-year period.

Certain courses will be open to non-Academy students for elective science credit and will be noted in the course

description when applicable.

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Bioscience Survey

#8751 – S1

#8752 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

10 - 11

Year

5 Credits (2.5 credits

for

semester 1

and

2.5 credits

for

semester 2)

FTHS

The objective of this course is to expose the student who is interested in a

career in the health science or biotechnology fields to the wide spectrum of

opportunities in these fields. Semester 1 – Students will engage in a series

of personality and interest inventory tests to learn about their personal

traits in order to realistically plan for their future. The organization of the

health science world will be studied as well as its development throughout

history. Then students will engage in researching many different career

options punctuated by weekly guest speakers from the medical field. This

study will be concluded by a field trip to a local hospital. Semester 2 –

Students will learn about the organization and history of the world of

biotechnology and to look at its many applications. Students will research

many different possible careers within this field and will have weekly

guest speakers. This semester will be concluded with a visit to a local

biotechnology laboratory.

UC/CSU Accepted PREREQUISITE(S): Application and interview are required for

acceptance into the Bioscience Academy

Medical

Technology

#3241 – S1

#3242 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

11 - 12

Year

10 Credits

FTHS

This is a rigorous laboratory course that examines the anatomy and

physiology of the human body and the methods employed by medical

professionals to respond to problems in the body in order to maintain

health. Students will be focusing on the physiological and structural

details of the body and then, for each body system, learn the scientific

background and procedural methods required to gather factual data,

evaluate that data and develop conclusions about the disease or condition

involved in that particular body system. Medical terminology will be

integrated into the students’ study as they work through each body system.

Students will gain physical and critical thinking skills as they apply their

knowledge of the body to many laboratory activities, medical case studies,

and real life scenarios to which they must respond.

UC/CSU Accepted PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Bioscience Survey or

Biology with instructor’s approval.

Biotechnology

Methods and

Application

#3251 – S1

#3252 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

11 - 12

Year

10 Credits

FTHS

Biotechnology is one of the courses needed to complete the Bioscience

Academy series at Foothill. This course is designed to give students an

introduction to the scientific concepts and laboratory research techniques

currently used in biotechnology. Students will develop laboratory skills,

critical thinking, and communication skills currently used in the

biotechnology industry.

UC/CSU Accepted PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Bioscience Survey or

Biology and Chemistry with instructor’s approval.

Page 76: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

73

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Bioethics

#1861 – S1

#1862 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

12

Year

10 Credits

FTHS

This is a culminating course for seniors in the Bioscience Academy at

Foothill Technology High School. The course will contextualize the

medical practices that the students have studied in their previous academy

courses. The goal of the Bioethics course is to provide students with the

social and ethical framework in which health care and medical research

professionals practice. Students will continually address contemporary

ethical dilemmas, leading to a bioethics committee simulation that will

make judgments on trial cases. Students will also write a research paper

on an epidemiological issue of their interest.

UC/CSU Accepted PREREQUISITE(S): Application and interview are required for

acceptance into the Bioscience Academy

Page 77: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

74

World Languages

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Chinese/Mandarin

1P

#4371 – S1

#4372 – S2

9 – 12 BHS

FTHS

Chinese/Mandarin 1P introduces students to the language and culture of

China. The goal is to develop basic listening, speaking, reading and writing

abilities in Mandarin/Chinese and to understand the customs and life of

modern China. The course objectives include the following: (1) Speaking:

students develop accurate pronunciation through the Pinyin system, good

communication in daily dialogues, and are able to describe daily activities

using a broad basic vocabulary. (2) Listening: students understand daily

conversation. (3) Reading: students are able to read over 150 Chinese

characters and short sentences.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

French 1P

#4001 – S1

#4002 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 12

Year

10 Credits

VHS

This course is a moderately-paced, multi-faceted introduction to the French

language and culture. It seeks to establish a strong base for early language

development through projects and approximately 20 minutes of reading a

night. The class encourages student interest in the French culture through

guest speakers, in-class presentations, music, and films. The course is not

designed for any “type” of students, but rather seeks to accommodate all

types and levels of learning. While the development and acquisition of oral

communication will be the focus of the course, students will also be

development French reading and writing skills. After the first few

introductory weeks and with the exception of some in-depth cultural

lessons, the class is taught almost entirely in French.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

French 2P

#4011 – S1

#4012 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

10 - 12

Year

10 Credits

VHS

French 2 is a dynamic continuation of French language. French language

development will be acquired through contextualized videoscènes and

listening activities, as well as comprehensible reading and listening. Class

instruction and interaction will occur primarily in French and students will

read 20 -30 minutes in French each night. Student interest in French

language acquisition will be enhanced by regular use of the foreign

language computer laboratory. Students will explore popular, current

French culture through contemporary French music videos as well as print,

radio, and online media. Literary and cultural themes will be enriched by

four films (Le Huitième Jour; Au Revoir, les Enfants; Le Trou; and Argent

de Poche) and the music of Jacques Brel, Yves Montand, Joe Dassin,

Francis Cabrel, Edith Piaf, and Charles Trenet.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): Teacher recommendation.

Page 78: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

75

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

French 3P or 3H

#4021 – S1

#4022 – S2

#4041 – S1 3H

#4042 – S2 3H

Not repeatable for

credit

10 - 12

Year

10 Credits

VHS

French 3 Honors is generally taught in combination with French 4 Honors.

The course curriculum seeks to strengthen French language acquisition

through a survey of French society, literature, music, and politics 1939 to

the present. Students will read and analyze four French literary texts in their

original French: Jacques Prévert’s collection of poems Paroles, Antoine de

St. Exupéry’s novel Le Petit Prince, Albert Camus’ novel l’Étranger, and

Eric Emmanuelle-Schmitt’s novel Oscar et la Dame Rose. Literary and

cultural themes will be enriched by four films (Les Enfants du Paradis, Les

Choristes, Une Pure Formalité, and Le Ballon Rouge) and the music of

Jacques Brel, Yves Montand, Joe Dassin, Francis Cabrel, Edith Piaf,

Corneille, and Jean-Jacques Goldman. Class instruction and interaction will

occur entirely in French.

UC/CSU Accepted PREREQUISITE(S): Teacher recommendation

French 4P or 4 H

#4031 – S1

#4032 – S2

#4051 – S1 4H

#4052 – S2 4H

Not repeatable for

credit

11 - 12

Year

10 Credits

VHS

French 4 Honors is generally taught in combination with French 3 Honors.

The course curriculum seeks to strengthen French language acquisition

through a survey of French society, literature, music, and politics from the

middle ages, across the revolution and Napoleonic France, to post-WW2

France, the end of colonization and the cold war. Students will read and

analyze a series of authentic texts in their original French including:

excerpts of Edmond Rostand’s play Cyrano de Bergerac, excerpts of

Alexandre Dumas’ Le Comte de Monte Cristo, La Déclaration des Droits

de l’Homme,Voltaires Candide, poetry by Victor Hugo, Charles Baudelaire,

Paul Verlaine, Artur Rimbaud, and short stories by Albert Camus, Sacha

Guitry, Prosper Merimée, Guy de Maupassant, and Joseph Kessel.

Literary, historical, and cultural themes will be enriched by four films

(Cyrano de Bergerac, Indochine, Est/Ouest,and Le Retour de Martin

Guerre) and the music of Jacques Brel, Yves Montand, Joe Dassin, Francis

Cabrel, Edith Piaf, and Charles Trenet. Class instruction and interaction

will occur entirely in French.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): Teacher recommendation.

Page 79: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

76

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

German 1P

#4201 – S1

#4202 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

VHS

This course is designed to develop a natural approach to develop the ability

to read, write, speak and understand German. Students internalize

vocabulary with actions and develop comprehension and verbal skills by

hearing, acting out, and telling stories. The teaching of the grammar and

vocabulary are done primarily within the context of introducing students to

the German culture.

UC/CSU Accepted PREREQUISITE(S): None.

German 2P

#4211 – S1

#4212 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

10 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

VHS

This course expands the basic audio-lingual skills, increases vocabulary,

masters more difficult structures and develops fluency and the ability to use

learned patterns in real life situations. Students will learn how to use a large

variety of expressions, phrases, and structures by working with materials of

high interest. Grammar is presented in a realistic and progressive sequence

with the ultimate goals of fluency, accuracy, and ease of expressing oneself

in German.

UC/CSU Accepted PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in German 1 and/or teacher

recommendation.

German 3P

#4221 – S1

#4222 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

10 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

VHS

This course continues the development of the student’s knowledge of

vocabulary and grammar from previous years. The emphasis is on

comprehending spoken and written German, reading from books,

magazines, etc., and on the ability to perform more extensive conversational

tasks. (In addition, students will focus on real-life tasks that will prepare

them to participate in our exchange with our partner school in Elmshorn,

Germany. Students, who desire to take part in the exchange, usually do so

after the junior year and/or after German 3 or 3H.)

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in German 2 and/or teacher

recommendation.

German 3H

#4251 – S1

#4252 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

11 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

VHS

This course is a designed for students who want to prepare for and take the

Advanced Placement Exam in German. Students will develop stronger

reading and writing skills through a variety of extra assignments. They will

learn more in-depth history, politics, current events, culture and other

aspects of Germany. (In addition, students will focus on real-life tasks that

will prepare them to participate in our exchange with our partner school in

Elmshorn, Germany. Students who desire to take part in the exchange,

usually do so after the junior year and/or after German 3 or 3H.)

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): A grade of an “A” in German 1 and 2 and/or teacher

recommendation.

Page 80: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

77

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

German 4P

#4231 – S1

#4232 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

11 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

VHS

Students will continue to develop both conversational and written language

skills. In addition, students will explore more advanced literature and some

samplings from the German cinema. This course will be especially useful to

the students who participated in the German student exchange program and

have returned to the United States ready to continue to broaden their

German language skills.

UC/CSU Accepted PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in German 3 and/or teacher

recommendation.

AP German

Language

#4261 – S1

#4262 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

This course is designed for the student who wants to prepare for, and take

the AP exam in German. The student will do all the work required in

German 4 with more in-depth reading and writing assignments. This course

will be especially useful to the students who participated in the German

student exchange program and have returned to the United States ready to

continue to broaden their German language skills. Students enrolled in this

course are strongly encouraged to take the Advanced Placement

Examination provided by the College Board.

UC/CSU Accepted PREREQUISITE(S): “B” or higher grade in German 3 or German 3

Honors and/or teacher recommendation.

Page 81: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

78

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Italian 1P

#4301 – S1

#4302 – S2

9 - 12

Year

10 Credits

VHS

This course is a moderately-paced, multi-faceted introduction to the Italian

language and culture. It seeks to establish a strong base for early language

development through projects and approximately 20 minutes of reading a

night. The class encourages student interest in the Italian culture through

guest speakers, in-class presentations, music, and films. The course is not

designed for any “type” of students, but rather seeks to accommodate all

types and levels of learning. While the development and acquisition of oral

communication will be the focus of the course, students will also be

developing Italian reading and writing skills. After the first few

introductory weeks and with the exception of some in-depth cultural

lessons, the class is taught almost entirely in Italian.

UC/CSU Accepted

PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Italian 2P

#4311 – S1

#4312 – S2

10 - 12

Year

10 Credits

VHS

This is a multi-faceted development of the Italian language and culture. It

seeks to establish a strong base for continued language development through

projects, weekly quizzes, exams and approximately 30 minutes of reading a

night. The class encourages student interest in the Italian culture through

guest speakers, in-class presentations, music, and films. The course is not

designed for any “type” of student, but rather seeks to accommodate all

types and levels of learning. While the development and acquisition of

conversational communication will be the focus of the course, students will

also be developing Italian reading and writing skills. The course assumes

knowledge of basic Italian conversation and explores further use of Italian

to discuss various tenses, moods, and modalities. The course is taught

almost entirely in Italian.

UC/CSU Accepted PREREQUISITE(S): Teacher recommendation.

Italian 3P

#4321 – S1

#4322 – S2

10 - 12

Year

10 Credits

VHS

This is course is an advanced exploration into Italian culture and language.

The class takes literary texts, songs, film and cultural elements from 20th

century Italy and contextualizes them in a study of the Italian perspective,

Italian history, and Italian language. Reading, writing and reflection are

core components of the course. Time is also spent exploring the role of

Italian emigration to the United States and the Italian-American culture. A

high level of language acquisition is expected as the course is taught almost

entirely in Italian.

Italian 4P

#4331 – S1

#4332 – S2

10 - 12

Year

10 Credits

VHS

Italian 4 will emphasize the use of Italian for active communication and help

students develop an Italian vocabulary and cultural proficiency sufficient to

reading online and paper press, literary texts, and writing non-technical text

without dependence on a dictionary, speaking coherently on a variety of

topics, expressing opinion resourcefully and with intermediate to advanced

proficiency. The study of the Italian-American experience is ongoing as is

the culturally porous nature of Italy as an intersection of Middle-Eastern and

Western cultures. Topics include, but are not limited to: music and the

theater, environmental issues, politics, cinema, and the arts. The class is run

almost entirely in Italian.

Page 82: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

79

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Spanish 1P

#4081 – S1

#4082 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

FTHS

VHS

This course aims to develop the students’ ability to understand, speak, read

and write Spanish within the limits of the material studied. The students

will develop the listening and speaking skills necessary for effective Spanish

communication. Cultural insights and appreciation of Spanish speaking

countries are acquired as an integral part of the language-learning

experience. An emphasis is on oral communication and practice at home is

regularly required.

UC/CSU Accepted PREREQUISITE(S): None.

Spanish 2P

#4091 – S1

#4092 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

10 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

FTHS

VHS

The aim of this course is to further develop the ability to read, write, speak

and understand Spanish. The course continues the study of functional

grammar and aims at greater fluency in writing and speaking within a basic

vocabulary. The course also provides the student with a general background

in the history and culture of Spanish speaking countries.

UC/CSU Accepted PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Spanish 1 and/or teacher

recommendation.

Spanish 3P

#4101 – S1

#4102 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

FTHS

VHS

This course emphasizes effective speaking, reading, writing, and listening

skills. The student is exposed to selections from literature, magazines and

newspapers. Oral work centers around student discussion of readings, skits

and original audio exercises, as well as review of the material learned in the

first two years.

UC/CSU Accepted PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Spanish 2 and/or teacher

recommendation.

AP Spanish

Language

#4121 – S1

#4122 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

FTHS

VHS

The Advanced Placement Program in Spanish is intended for those students

who have chosen to develop their proficiency in Spanish. This course

prepares the advanced student for the Advanced Placement Spanish

Language exam. Students who enroll should have an understanding of the

language and culture of Spanish-speaking peoples and should have attained

a reasonable proficiency in listening comprehension, speaking, reading and

writing. Students enrolled in this course are strongly encouraged to take the

Advanced Placement Examination provided by the College Board.

UC/CSU Accepted PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Spanish 3 and/or teacher

recommendation.

Page 83: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

80

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

AP Spanish

Literature

#4131 – S1

#4132 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

10 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

FTHS

VHS

The Advanced Placement Program in Spanish is intended for those students

who have chosen to develop their proficiency in Spanish. This course

prepares the advanced student for the Advanced Placement Spanish

Literature exam. Students will be required to read and analyze the major

works of various Spanish and Latin American authors. Extensive reading,

writing and literary analysis is required. Students enrolled in this course are

strongly encouraged to take the Advanced Placement Examination provided

by the College Board.

UC/CSU Accepted PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Spanish 3 and/or teacher

recommendation.

Spanish For Native

Speakers 3

#4161 – S1

#4162 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

9 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

FTHS

VHS

This course is for native speakers of Spanish who have needs different from

those of non-native learners of Spanish. The emphasis is on spelling,

vocabulary development, literature and writing, rather than oral

communication. The course is taught entirely in Spanish using texts and

supplementary materials selected by the instructor. Grammar will be taught

through actual usage not as an isolated skill.

UC/CSU Accepted PREREQUISITE(S): Must be a native speaker of Spanish or a

continuing Spanish 4 student and has teacher recommendation.

Spanish For Native

Speakers 4

#4181 – S1

#4182 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

10 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

VHS

This course is for native speakers of Spanish who have needs different from

those of non-native learners of Spanish. The course continues the work

from Spanish For Native Speakers 3. The focus is on literature and there is

extensive reading, writing, literary analysis, grammar, and presentations.

UC/CSU Accepted PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Spanish For Native

Speakers 3 or the instructor’s approval.

Spanish For

International

Careers

#4481 – S1

#4482 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

10 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

VHS

The emphasis on this course is those areas of business and jobs involved in

international commerce, international law, environmental regulation, and

global issues. Spanish for International Careers provides a career-oriented

and communication-based classroom curriculum delivered through in-class

instruction, computer and internet-based class assignments and

communicative activities, online research, and in-class community member

lectures. Its curriculum is appropriate to high-level Spanish language

learners, heritage and native speakers, and sophomores, juniors, or seniors

who have completed a TWI (Two Way Immersion Program). Students will

have the opportunity to participate in internships with locally-based

international corporations.

UC/CSU Accepted PREREQUISITE(S): “C” or higher grade in Spanish 3 and/or identified

high-level native Spanish speaker or heritage speaker.

Page 84: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

81

Bilingual Opportunities Pathway Program – BOPP (BHS and VHS Only) – The Bilingual Opportunities Pathway

Program provides Buena and Ventura High School students opportunities to maximize language and cultural skills

through new, advanced Spanish courses emphasizing career-world application of language skills. English Learners,

former English Learners, students from the District’s Two-Way Immersion Program, and other Spanish students will

come together in this unique program. Community and district partners, along with professional resources, will help

develop curriculum that meets the needs of our students for advanced academic language preparation and career planning.

Students will identify career interests to guide the emphasis of their Spanish language development. They will establish

relationships with bilingual mentors, visit career sites, develop bilingual career glossaries, practice interpretation and

translation skills, utilize technology resources, prepare professional portfolios and share their aspirations with community,

parent and student groups.

Course Title

Course Number

Grade

Length

Credit

School

Course Description and Prerequisite(s)

Spanish For

Careers in the

Community

#4491 – S1

#4492 – S2

Not repeatable for

credit

10 - 12

Year

10 Credits

BHS

VHS

This course provides a career-oriented and communication-based activities

course which is delivered through in-class instruction, language lab

supplement work, online research and communication, and community

participation (community site visits and in-class community member

presentations) appropriate to high-level Spanish speakers and learners.

Students will apply Spanish language abilities to local career opportunities

in law enforcement, healthcare, education, legal representation, hospitality,

technology, marketing and sales, real estate, financial services, government,

social services, and interpretation and/or translation.

PREREQUISITE(S): Placement Test, and one of the following: “C” or

higher grade in Spanish 3, Native Speakers 4, or teacher

recommendation.

Page 85: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

82

Ventura High School - Pathways

Ventura High School offers two pathways. The emphasis is on helping students succeed by having a

small, select group of teachers work closely with the students and giving them a meaningful

curriculum with a Career Technical Education focus. In each pathway, students attend three or four

of the core courses for this pathway per day, including English, Social Studies, and one or two

pathway specific courses each year. The remainder of the students’ day will be with the general VHS

population in classes such as Math, Physical Education, and Science or Elective. Pathway students

will be expected to complete 10 hours of community service in their sophomore year, 20 hours in

their junior year, and 30 hours during their senior year. During their senior year, students complete

internships and projects specific to their pathway.

Culinary and Hospitality Academy (VHS only) – The Culinary and Hospitality Academy is

designed for students who are considering a career in the culinary arts or other aspects of the

hospitality industry. Students will learn and practice the cooking, safety, and service skills necessary

to create everything from a family dinner to a banquet for hundreds. Instead of Chemistry, students

will take Food and Nutrition Science, where the labs all relate to food and cooking. Students will

experience many guest speakers, take field trips to professional kitchens, and work as interns in the

field.

Global Eco Management Specialist (GEMS) (VHS only) – This is a pathway for students interested

in environmental careers, community service, and learning GIS/GPS as a tool to monitor ecosystems.

During the course of this pathway, students may earn a certificate in GIS/GPS (Global Information

Systems/Global Positioning Systems), qualifying them as a skilled technician. Students will also take

Advanced Placement Environmental Science and be encouraged to work for a more sustainable future

through job shadowing, internships, and projects. The GEMS club takes numerous field trips to

museums, nature reserves, and overnight camping trips in diverse ecosystems.

Page 86: High School Course Directory for 2013-2014 - Ventura Unified

83

Four-Year Planning Worksheet

9

th Grade 10

th Grade

1st Semester 2

nd Semester 1

st Semester 2

nd Semester

Alternative Electives: Alternative Electives:

________________________________ _______________________________

________________________________ _______________________________

________________________________ _______________________________

11th

Grade 12th

Grade

1st Semester 2

nd Semester 1

st Semester 2

nd Semester

Alternative Electives: Alternative Electives:

________________________________ _______________________________

________________________________ _______________________________

________________________________ _______________________________

Are you meeting: _______Course and credit graduation requirements?

_______CAHSEE requirements?

_______Admission requirements for the university/college of your choice?

_______Requirements to prepare yourself for additional technical training?

_______Requirements to prepare yourself for an occupation?