Courses Guide

Explore the classes usually offered in high school and learn how to effectively utilize them.

Course Planning

Choosing the right courses in high school is crucial for college admissions and personal growth. It's important to challenge yourself with a rigorous course load while also exploring subjects that interest you. Consider taking a mix of core academic classes, electives, and advanced courses like AP or IB to demonstrate your commitment to learning and prepare for college-level work.

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Legend

🔴 Graduation Requirement
🟡 Honors Replacements are Available
🟢 AP Course Replacements are Available
🔵 Elective

📚 English

🔴 🟡

English 1

Grade: 9

Focuses on reading, writing and literary analysis.

Skills:

  • Reading comprehension
  • Writing skills
  • Literary analysis
🔴 🟡

English 2

Grade: 10

Builds on the skills developed in English 1, with a focus on more complex texts and writing techniques.

Skills:

  • Advanced reading comprehension
  • Essay writing
  • Research skills
🔴 🟡 🟢

English 3

Grade: 11

Continues to build on the skills developed in previous English courses, with an emphasis on critical thinking and advanced writing.

Skills:

  • Critical analysis
  • Argumentative writing
  • Oral communication
🔴 🟡 🟢

English 4

Grade: 12

Builds on the skills developed in previous English courses, with an emphasis on critical thinking and advanced writing.

Skills:

  • Understand purposes
  • Research skills
  • Academic Discussions

🔢 Mathematics

🔴 🟡

Algebra 1

Grade: 9

Focuses on algebraic concepts and problem-solving.

Skills:

  • Algebraic manipulation
  • Equation solving
  • Graphing linear functions
🔴 🟡

Geometry

Grade: 10

Builds on the skills developed in Algebra 1, with a focus on geometric concepts and proofs.

Skills:

  • Geometric reasoning
  • Proof writing
  • Coordinate geometry
🔴 🟡

Algebra 2

Grade: 11

Continues to build on the skills developed in Algebra 1, with an emphasis on more advanced algebraic concepts.

Skills:

  • Algebraic manipulation
  • Equation solving
  • Graphing quadratic functions
🔴 🟡 🟢

Pre-Calculus

Grade: 12

Builds on the skills developed in previous mathematics courses, with an emphasis on preparing students for calculus.

Skills:

  • Function analysis
  • Trigonometric concepts
  • Limits and continuity

AP vs Honors Level Courses

🟡 Honors Courses

  • Difficulty: More challenging than standard courses, but less than AP. Do it when it is not your career focus
  • College Credit: No college credit, but can enhance college applications compared to standard courses
  • Workload: Increased workload compared to standard courses, but less than AP
  • Focus: Emphasis on deeper understanding of subject matter and doing normal coursework
  • GPA: It usually has .5 higher than standard courses (Ex: An A in a standard is 4 and in honors can be 4.5)

🟢 AP Courses

  • Difficulty: Most rigorous, with college-level material and significant time commitment
  • College Credit: Potential to earn college credit with a high AP exam score and save tons of money on tuition.
  • Workload: Heavier workload with more in-depth assignments and projects
  • Focus: Emphasis on critical thinking, analysis, and application of knowledge
  • GPA: It usually has 1 higher than standard courses (Ex: An A in a standard is 4 and in AP can be 5)

Typical College Recommendations

Though requirements vary by institution, most colleges look for a strong foundation in core subjects, particularly in mathematics and science.

📚 English

4 Years

Because both high school and all colleges require 4 years, its a win win!

➗ Mathematics

4 Years

Even if you have taken math in middle school that counts toward high school, taking all 4 years of high school can be stronger.

🔬 Science

3 Years

*Prestigious colleges usually require 4 years

Taking lab science courses can provide hands-on experience and strengthen your application.

🌎 Social Studies

3 Years

*Prestigious colleges usually require 4 years

If you career pathway is not in social studies, taking only 3 is sufficient if you make up for it in taking better subjects

🗣️ Foreign Language

2 Years

*Prestigious colleges usually require 3 or 4 years

*Sometimes courses like French or Chinese aren't offered for all 4 years, so taking until it is offered will be noticed by colleges

🎨 Electives

It changes quite frequently based on school offerings.

Taking each year can show your dedication to your career

Taking different types of electives can demonstrate that you are well-rounded and have tried various fields of study

Ready to Plan Your Future?

Understanding your course options is only the first step. Build a four-year plan that matches your goals and interests.

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