Hernando eSchool High School Course Descriptions
English
English I (*)
This course will help you develop your language arts skills by reading, writing, listening, viewing, and speaking. You will learn to use the English language to help you successfully express yourself. Students will choose an independent reading selection from an approved list for this course.
English II (*)
In English II, you will encounter new vocabulary, refine the grammar and mechanics of your writing, and engage in thought-provoking projects. Throughout this course, you will discover how the human experience is the foundation of the best stories, plays, poems, films, and articles.
English III (*)
In this course students will acquire the language, reading, writing, and speaking/listening skills necessary for success in college, career, and beyond. Become a critical reader and thinker as you dive deeply into the texts presented throughout this course. You will learn how to effectively research and integrate your findings, as well as citing your sources.
English IV (*)
Students will read a variety of literature from classic to contemporary and will write personal, expository, and analytic papers, college essays, and research papers. Students will also work to improve grammar and vocabulary.
Mathematics
Algebra I (*)
Algebra I emphasizes the importance of algebra in everyday life through hundreds of real-world examples. Assessments are designed to ensure that your understanding goes beyond rote memorization of steps and procedures. Upon successful course completion, you will have a strong foundation in Algebra I and will be prepared for other higher level math courses.
Algebra IA
In Algebra 1-A, you will focus on the Algebra 1 benchmarks related to linear functions. The lessons are designed to help you develop fundamental algebraic skills for problem-solving in the real world. To fulfill the Algebra 1 requirement for high school graduation, you must finish this sequence by completing Algebra 1-B or Algebra 1.
Algebra IB
In Algebra 1-B, you will focus on the Algebra 1 benchmarks related to exponential and quadratic functions as well as data and statistics. The lessons are designed to help you develop fundamental algebraic skills for problem-solving in the real world.
Algebra II (*)
Starting with a review of basic algebra, students will learn about polynomials, quadratic equations, exponential and logarithmic relations, and probability and statistics. Throughout the course, these mathematical concepts are applied to everyday occurrences in order to gain a better understanding of how the world around us functions.
Geometry (*)
Geometry exists everywhere in the world around you. We use it to build bridges, design maps, and even create perspective in paintings. Throughout this course, students will use problem solving and real world application to gain the knowledge and understanding of geometric concepts and their practical uses.
Math for College Algebra
In Mathematics for College Algebra, you will acquire skills needed for success in college-level mathematics. You will integrate critical-thinking skills, problem-solving skills, and mathematics skills as you explore expressions, equations, and functions. Within this exploration, you will interpret the viability of solutions to real-world problems at the level of algebra required for entry into college-level courses.
Math for College Liberal Arts
Mathematics for College Liberal Arts gives you the opportunity to explore a range of mathematical concepts and fields, all while connecting ideas to their application in our world. Major topics in this course include linear and exponential functions, geometry in the real world, analysis of data and probability, and the use of functions as models. Logic and theory as they apply to the practical use of mathematical concepts are introduced, giving you an understanding of how the principles of higher-level math connect to everyday life.
Science
Earth-Space Science (*)
This laboratory course focuses on the study of space and the geologic and atmospheric forces that shape our world. Through experimentation and investigation, you will explore the Earth’s cycles, including the geosphere, hydrosphere, cryosphere, atmosphere, and carbon cycle.
Physical Science (*)
This course will help students build a foundation for studying physical sciences. Students will also learn basic physics and chemistry, as you explore this interactive course. Topics include forces and motion, energy through waves, electricity and magnetism, the matter around us, chemical bonding, and reactions.
Biology I (*)
Explore the structure, function, diversity, and evolution of living matter by taking an in-depth look at the fundamental characteristics of living organisms. You will have the opportunity to perform hands-on lab activities and develop relationships through collaborative learning.
Anatomy and Physiology (*)
Explore the human body and learn how you can help your body cope with many different situations. You will study the structure, location, and function of various systems within the human body and how these systems interact.
Environmental Science (*)
Environmental Science discusses the environmental challenges that impact our future, such as land use, pollution, climate change, and loss of biodiversity. This course is centered around achieving global sustainability to meet the needs of a growing human population, while also maintaining natural resources and protecting Earth's various systems. The short- and long-term consequences of our actions on human health and the environment are also a course focus. In addition, this course creates a call to action for students by teaching them how to protect the world's biodiversity and resources by adjusting the way they live, work, play, and govern in the future.
Social Studies
United States History (*)
Investigate the people, events, and ideas that have shaped the United States from the end of the Civil War through today while applying what you learn to real-world problems.
World History (*)
Join Ali and Soo-jin, our modern time travelers, as they journey through history. Discover the connections between world events and eras, from the Roman Empire through the Industrial Revolution, and explore development in our modern world, as well as the implications that historical events have on us today.
United States Government (*)
Explore the principles that inspired the Constitution and Bill of Rights and examine each branch of government, the election process, and how you can impact public policy. You will also discover how the United States interacts with other countries.
Economics (*)
Become a more informed consumer, producer, investor, and taxpayer and learn how your choices directly affect your future.
Economics and Personal Finance (*)
In Economics and Personal Finance, instructional time will emphasize eight areas:
(1) developing fundamental concepts of economics, such as, analyzing the trade-offs that individuals, businesses, and society must make because of scarcity;
(2) using microeconomic concepts to describe how individual consumers, businesses, and government make decisions in a market economy and understand the benefits of using the market to distribute goods;
(3) using macroeconomic concepts to understand the key indicators that measure the economy and how fiscal and monetary policy can be used to influence the economy and reduce the swings of the business cycle;
(4) exploring international trade, analyzing the gains countries could receive through trade and understanding the stages of economic development;
(5) exploring personal financial decisions, including understanding cognitive biases’ impact on decision-making and developing personal or family budgets to weigh the costs and benefits of purchasing goods and services;
(6) understanding how wages and salaries are earned, the types of taxes owed, evaluating post-secondary paths, career options, and planning for future through investment accounts and retirement plans;
(7) analyzing the benefits of saving now by earning interest, comparing various savings accounts and services offered by financial institutions, determining the advantages and disadvantages of credit accounts and loans, and comparing investment choices by analyzing rates of return, risk, diversification, and associated fees; and
(8) recognizing and mitigating risks that can result in lost income, health, or identity through insurance and other risk management strategies.
Foreign Language
Spanish I
During the first semester of this course students will travel and explore the cultures of Spain, Mexico, Costa Rica, and Colombia. During the 2nd semester, our journey will take us to Argentina, Cuba, Puerto Rico, and Ecuador. There are 8 modules in the course. Students will learn the basic greetings, phrases as well as new vocabulary and new grammar concepts. Emphasis will be on the acquisition of four skills: listening, speaking, reading and limited writing.
Spanish II
This course will consist of 10 modules. Within these modules, students will continue to explore Spanish culture around the world. The sentence structure will become much more complex, adding additional verb tenses and structures. Lastly, students will continue to dive deeper into the acquisition of listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
Performing Art Electives
Creative Photography
This course is designed to introduce students to the basics of Creative Photography. Beginning with the history of photography, highlighting developments that helped bring us where we are today, the course goes on to cover equipment and design elements and offers insight into photographing common subjects. In addition, composition techniques and lighting are covered, allowing students a better understanding of ways to effectively photograph their subjects.
Segment Two introduces students to important photographers, critiques, careers, and introduces them to laws and licensing that affect photographers. Students must have a digital camera (which can be a cellphone camera) and must be able to upload images to their computer to submit as attachments for grading.
Music of the World: History of Rock
Take your knowledge of rock music to the next level. Starting in the 1950's, we'll take a musical tour of the foundations of rock and roll. We'll look at how rock music affected social issues like racial unrest and the war protests of the 1960's. You will learn about the founding fathers, and mothers, of rock and roll and see the impact they've had on today’s music.
Theatre, Cinema, & Film Production
Explore the elements of theater and cinematic techniques used by those who create performance productions. As you progress through the course you will view the historical development of different genres and the reasons why they were used. You will also be exposed to a detailed view of film and theater backstage operations and asked to speculate on why a director chooses certain perspectives. This course can be used to meet a performing/fine arts requirement for high school graduation.
Two-Dimensional Studio Art
This course is designed to introduce students to the Design Elements: Line, Shape, Form, Value, Texture, Color, and Space through two dimensions (drawing and painting). Students explore each Element through background information combined with exercises and projects that allow students to develop their artistic skills. Segment One discusses media, Line, Shape, Form, Value, and Texture.
Segment Two picks up where Segment One left off, addressing Color through watercolor and Space through linear perspective drawing. In addition, Segment Two covers careers and critiques and portraiture. Students taking this course must have access to the required art supplies—paper; pencils; erasers; ruler or straight edge; color pencils and/or markers; watercolor kit (and paper, if possible) — and a means to upload images to their computer to submit as attachments for grading.
Full Year Electives (1 credit)
Health Opportunities through Physical Education (HOPE)
Your path to lifelong fitness starts here. You’ll set a variety of goals that will guide you toward leading a healthy lifestyle. During your journey, you’ll perform daily physical activity, design a personal fitness plan that suits your interests, and keep track of your fitness progress. You’ll monitor your exercise and nutrition using a personalized wellness plan. You will create your own meal plans and learn about healthy eating to keep your body energized. The importance of first aid and disease prevention will also be covered in this course.
Semester Electives (1/2 credit)
Career Research and Decision Making
This course will show you how to prepare for, get accepted to and pay for college. You will explore different career and education pathways, study interview techniques and networking tips, create smart resumes, and learn how to plan for a successful future. Throughout the course you will be coached by Mawi Asgedom, a Harvard graduate and a student leadership expert who has trained more than 1 million students. Opportunity is knocking, are you ready?
Drivers Education and Traffic Safety
Develop safe driving skills by studying the Highway Transportation System, traffic signs, rules of the road, and how to make good choices behind the wheel. This course fulfills the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) required completion of the Traffic Law & Substance Abuse Education (TLSAE). As an added benefit for completing the course with FLVS, you will also be eligible to take the Florida Learner’s License (permit) exam online for FREE*!
Outdoor Education
Develop your skills in outdoor activities like boating and hunting, and learn about the benefits of physical activity while using proper safety procedures to experience wildlife and outdoor and extreme sports. By meeting all of the requirements of the course, you will be eligible to obtain a state of Florida Hunter Education Certificate and Florida Boating Safety Education ID Card.
Parenting Skills
Parenting involves more than having a child and providing food and shelter. Take this one-semester course to explore parenting roles and responsibilities, nurturing and protective environments for children, positive parenting strategies, and effective communication in parent/child relationships.
Peer Counseling I
Gain the skills to help you succeed in all areas of your life. You will learn how to take action, set goals, manage your time, and help your peers. This course is recommended for ELL (English Language Learner) students but open to all students.
Peer Counseling II
Increase your confidence and build your social skills as you learn how to conquer peer pressure, social anxiety, and the unnecessary risks that can derail your future. In this class you’ll discover how your teen brain really works, so you can make better decisions and achieve more.
Personal Finance and Money Management
Learn one of life’s most important lessons – making sound financial decisions! In this course, you will practice money management skills using real-life scenarios. This course teaches the skills and knowledge you need to become a wise consumer, saver, investor, user of credit, and planner. Topics include financial attitudes and behaviors, income and taxes, budgeting, buying goods and services, financial accounts, credit and loans, financial investing, and insuring and planning. Build your financial literacy skills to excel in today’s global workforce and society. And if you are still asking yourself, when will I ever use this information? The answer is every day for the rest of your adult life.
Personal Financial Literacy
The purpose of this course is to give students an overview of personal and family finance concepts including the American economic system, personal and family management of resources including income, money management, saving and investing, spending and credit, the role of financial institutions and the consumer, consumer information and taxation and financial planning.
Personal Fitness
Take it personally! Your health and fitness, that is. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, so this course is designed with you at the center of achieving a lifetime of overall health and physical fitness. Learn about why and how your body moves with the components of fitness, as well as how to set and reach goals to keep improving. Stay safe with injury and disease prevention and keeping your body free of harmful substances. Emotional health is important, too. You’ll learn skills like building resiliency, managing stress, and maintaining healthy relationships. Let’s get started on your personal journey!
Psychology
Where do thoughts and memories come from? What are emotions? And why do we behave the way we do? In Psychology I, you will begin to understand the human mind by exploring the research and theories of some of the most brilliant psychologists throughout history. In addition, learn psychological tips that you can use every day, like how to cope and reduce stress. This course provides elective credit only.
Social Media I
Explore your individual contribution and influential powers by identifying your digital imprint. In this course, you will examine the world through social media, where citizen journalism is the news, personal audiences are your critics and your supporters, and personal connection is subjective. This course provides elective credit only.
Key
(*) Honors/Advanced option offered for this course