Tailored Education
Designed for Grades 9-12, our honors courses challenge students to master more in-depth content with a high level of rigor in both requirements and assessments. Honors courses include a cumulative exam, the semester final, where students are assessed on content presented throughout the semester.
Each course is 1 credit, NCAA-eligible, and consists of two semester classes.
Honors Courses
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English Language ArtsEnglish Language Arts 9English Language arts 10
English Language Arts 9
In English Language Arts 9 Honors, students are challenged to master more in-depth content, tied to appropriate academic standards, in the same period as a traditional course, with a high level of rigor in both requirements and assessments. English Language Arts 9 utilizes works of fiction and nonfiction from classic to modern times to introduce students to key literary elements. Students develop skills in literary analysis and interpretation by reading and examining plot, setting, character, narrator, voice, tone, mood, symbolism, irony, and other literary elements. In addition, students examine form, style, and persuasion in nonfiction works. In this course, students strengthen their vocabulary, grammar skills, and use of mechanics. They also focus on mastering the stages of the writing process and further developing their research and presentation skills.
American LiteratureEnglish Language Arts 10
In English Language Arts 10 Honors, students are challenged to master more in-depth content, tied to appropriate academic standards, in the same period as a traditional course, with a high level of rigor in both requirements and assessments. In English Language Arts 10, students focus on literature, grammar, and composition. They examine words and their meanings and apply this information to other concepts in the course. Students analyze the different elements of a story, including plot, setting, character, narrator, and voice. Additionally, throughout the course, students study various parts of speech, readings, and poetry. English Language Arts 10 also presents students with many different types and styles of writing in order to provide a thorough examination of language and literature. Students apply these styles to their own writing as well.
British LiteratureAmerican Literature
In American Literature Honors, students are challenged to master more in-depth content, tied to appropriate academic standards, in the same period as a traditional course, with a high level of rigor in both requirements and assessments. In American Literature, students explore various cultural periods of American literature. They examine numerous aspects of Romanticism, literature from multiple historical eras of the United States, and contributions made by significant American leaders. In addition to discovering multiple genres and investigating numerous periods of writing, students also explore the basics of literature, writing, and grammar.
British Literature
In British Literature Honors, students are challenged to master more in-depth content, tied to appropriate academic standards, in the same period as a traditional course, with a high level of rigor in both requirements and assessments. British Literature provides students with a survey of literature in this genre. Students explore the Anglo-Saxon and medieval eras, the English Renaissance, and the Restoration and Enlightenment periods. They analyze how authors from this region have traditionally constructed texts and developed prominent and long-lasting literature. In this course, students examine a variety of styles and use the vocabulary that is characteristic of the literature pieces they are reading. This course offers students numerous chances to discuss, analyze, synthesize, and evaluate the texts they read through a wide range of writing and thinking exercises.
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MathematicsGeometryAlgebra I
Geometry
In Geometry Honors, students are challenged to master more in-depth content, tied to appropriate academic standards, in the same period as a traditional course, with a high level of rigor in both requirements and assessments. In Geometry, students explore the relationships that exist within geometric figures, such as triangles, circles, and quadrilaterals. Students analyze the relationships and use mathematical postulates and theorems to write proofs. The explored relationships are also used to solve mathematical and real-world problems and to perform geometric constructions. The students are introduced to the concept of probability and to parabolas.
Algebra IIAlgebra I
In Algebra I Honors, students are challenged to master more in-depth content, tied to appropriate academic standards, in the same period as a traditional course, with a high level of rigor in both requirements and assessments. In Algebra I, students explore roots, function patterns, graphs, equations, and inequalities. They will also transform and compare functions. Students will describe and translate graphic, algebraic, numeric, and verbal representations of relations and use those relationships to solve problems.
Pre-CalculusAlgebra II
In Algebra II Honors, students are challenged to master more in-depth content, tied to appropriate academic standards, in the same period as a traditional course, with a high level of rigor in both requirements and assessments. In Algebra II, students analyze situations verbally, numerically, graphically, and symbolically. Students solve equations and inequalities. They extend their knowledge of algebraic expressions, absolute value, functions, and graphs. This course prepares students for more difficult mathematical concepts and content.
Pre-Calculus
In Pre-Calculus Honors, students are challenged to master more in-depth content, tied to appropriate academic standards, in the same period as a traditional course, with a high level of rigor in both requirements and assessments. In Pre-Calculus, students develop a deeper and more thorough understanding of functions and graphs. Graphs that students study range from polynomial and rational to exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric. Some exponential and logarithmic topics discussed in this course are change of base formulas, properties of logs, growth and decay, and logistic growth models.
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ScienceBiologyChemistry
Biology
In Biology Honors, students are challenged to master more in-depth content, tied to appropriate academic standards, in the same period as a traditional course, with a high level of rigor in both requirements and assessments. Biology follows the adventures of two Lincoln High School students, Zeke and Chloe, as they explore the fascinating world of the biological sciences. As members of the BioLINC Club, organized by their teacher Mr. Quinn, they attend field trips and conduct laboratory activities to learn more about topics in Biology. Students begin by exploring the foundations of biology, the chemistry of life, and the structure and function of cells. Then, they dive into the basics of cellular energy, including photosynthesis and cellular respiration. Next, cellular development and reproduction are explored, including mitosis and meiosis. The principles of heredity and the manipulation and testing of DNA are also examined. Semester one concludes with a look at the history of life, including the fossil record and geologic time scale. During semester two, students investigate the principles of evolution and how populations change over time. Students continue by studying the basics of ecology and how organisms are intertwined within communities. The ecosystems within the biosphere are explored, as well as the impacts humans have on Earth’s environment. Next, the classification system used to categorize organisms on Earth is explored, and the behaviors of animals are studied. Finally, the course culminates with a look at how organisms maintain homeostasis and how human body systems work.
PhysicsChemistry
In Chemistry Honors, students are challenged to master more in-depth content, tied to appropriate academic standards, in the same period as a traditional course, with a high level of rigor in both requirements and assessments. Chemistry takes students on a journey with Elena Gilbert, a crime scene investigation intern, who applies the fundamentals of chemistry to CheMYSTERY crime scene investigations at the conclusion of each topic. The journey begins with an exploration of scientific practices, laboratory safety guidelines, and measurement skills. Next, students work through the properties of matter, atomic theory and structure, and quantum mechanics. The history and organization of the periodic table precedes exploring the basics of chemical bonding, rules for naming compounds, proper construction of chemical formulas, and methods of chemical quantification. Semester one concludes by investigating the types of chemical reactions and balancing chemical equations. During semester two, students begin with conducting stoichiometric calculations, studying the behavior of gases, and investigating the nature of solutions. Next, the world of thermochemistry is explored, as well as the concept of equilibrium. Students continue into an investigation of acids, bases, and salts and the concept of oxidation-reduction reactions. The course culminates with a look at specialty areas of chemistry, including nuclear chemistry, organic chemistry, biochemistry, and electrochemistry. As a prerequisite to Chemistry, students must have completed Algebra I with a passing grade of C or better.
Earth SciencePhysics
In Physics Honors, students are challenged to master more in-depth content, tied to appropriate academic standards, in the same period as a traditional course, with a high level of rigor in both requirements and assessments. Students enrolled in Physics advance their knowledge and understanding of concepts in previous general science courses. In this course, students examine classical mechanics while learning to calculate concepts in one-dimensional, two-dimensional, and circular motion. Students explore work and energy in addition to the concepts of waves, sound, light, optics, and electromagnetism. The course concludes with an analysis of nuclear physics and a debate on quantum physics. This course requires students to use fundamental algebra and analytical skills to solve problems and analyze situations. As a prerequisite to Physics, students must have completed Algebra I and must possess basic spreadsheet, word processing, and presentation software knowledge. While the completion of Trigonometry is not required, a pre-or corequisite of Trigonometry will allow students to be better prepared for calculations involving dynamics, vectors, and kinematics.
Anatomy and PhysiologyEarth Science
In Earth Science Honors, students are challenged to master more in-depth content, tied to appropriate academic standards, in the same period as a traditional course, with a high level of rigor in both requirements and assessments. In Earth Science, students discover the theories about how Earth first formed. They explore Earth’s history and the different geologic processes that continually take effect and help to shape the planet. Students debate the ways in which human impacts affect the Earth's climate, and they view Earth as a body within the solar system and universe. They also review Earth's renewable and finite resources. The course concludes with a virtual tour of Earth's atmosphere and oceans.
Physical ScienceAnatomy and Physiology
In Anatomy and Physiology Honors, students are challenged to master more in-depth content, tied to appropriate academic standards, in the same period as a traditional course, with a high level of rigor in both requirements and assessments. The Anatomy and Physiology course allows students to discover the fascinating dynamics of the human body. Students begin by exploring the history of anatomy, essential anatomical terminology, and the hierarchical organization of the human body. Next, students are introduced to basic biochemistry and cellular processes, which includes a virtual tour of the cell. Students also investigate the structure, function, hierarchy, and diseases associated with each organ system. Completion of one full year of high school Biology is required in order to understand the numerous biological concepts presented in this course.
Physical Science
In Physical Science Honors, students are challenged to master more in-depth content, tied to appropriate academic standards, in the same period as a traditional course, with a high level of rigor in both requirements and assessments. Physical Science students are introduced to the principles of chemistry and physics so that they may develop a better understanding of atoms, chemical reactions, and nuclear interactions. Students explore the properties and states of matter and investigate chemical bonds and reactions. Students will investigate the development of the periodic table, an outline of modern atomic theory, and organic and nuclear chemistry. Additionally, students study Newton’s laws of motion while considering the interactions between motion, forces, energy, and thermodynamics. As a prerequisite to Physical Science, students must have completed Algebra I and must possess basic spreadsheet, word processing, and presentation software knowledge.
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Social StudiesEconomicsWorld History
Economics
In Economics Honors, students are challenged to master more in-depth content, tied to appropriate academic standards, in the same period as a traditional course, with a high level of rigor in both requirements and assessments. Economics presents an overview of microeconomics and macroeconomics. It discusses economic theories, economic systems, various economic concepts, and the global economy. Students will examine the economy of the United States in depth and compare it to other economies. Students will also explore personal banking and how to prepare for their financial future.
Civics and GovernmentWorld History
In World History Honors, students are challenged to master more in-depth content, tied to appropriate academic standards, in the same period as a traditional course, with a high level of rigor in both requirements and assessments. World History allows students to investigate significant events, people, and places from prehistoric to modern times. Studying world history allows students to consider the historical relevance of people, places, and events. In this wide-ranging course, students learn how the world and its inhabitants were shaped over time, and, in the process, gain a better understanding of the role that geography plays in world history.
World CulturesCivics and Government
In Civics and Government Honors, students are challenged to master more in-depth content, tied to appropriate academic standards, in the same period as a traditional course, with a high level of rigor in both requirements and assessments. Civics and Government offers students an introduction to the foundation of the democratic government of the U.S. and the basic principles of the judicial system. In this course, students explore what it means to be a citizen, as well as the structure of the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of the U.S. government. Students learn about how these branches work together. Students also look at the characteristics of state and local governments throughout the country to examine the organization and responsibilities of these branches. Students also explore the components of the American economy, including its foundations and how it interacts with other economies of the world.
World GeographyWorld Cultures
In World Cultures Honors, students are challenged to master more in-depth content, tied to appropriate academic standards, in the same period as a traditional course, with a high level of rigor in both requirements and assessments. World Cultures explains global geography, history, and culture to students. In this course, students study the major political powers of each era and discover how the world's earliest civilizations developed through the Age of Exploration to the Industrial Revolution. In the second half of the course, students examine a world at war, navigating the Great War, nationalist movements in Russia and Asia, World War II, the Cold War, Third World independence, and struggles for democracy. The course closes with discussions of current global issues such as terrorism, technology, economy, pollution, and renewable energy.
U.S. History IWorld Geography
In World Geography Honors, students are challenged to master more in-depth content, tied to appropriate academic standards, in the same period as a traditional course, with a high level of rigor in both requirements and assessments. In World Geography, students explore the principles and tools of geography while examining the world as geographers. Students gain cultural perspectives by exploring the physical and human geographic aspects of each continent and its regions. This enables students to analyze cultures throughout the world and examine how the global community impacts their lives.
U.S. History IIU.S. History I
In U.S. History I Honors, students are challenged to master more in-depth content, tied to appropriate academic standards, in the same period as a traditional course, with a high level of rigor in both requirements and assessments. In U.S. History I, students will explore United States history from the European settlement of North America through Reconstruction. Students investigate North America's colonization, the transition from British colonies to an independent United States, and the Civil War and reunification. The course offers numerous rigorous, interactive options for students to conduct an in-depth review of key events and concepts in U.S history.
U.S. History II
In U.S. History II Honors, students are challenged to master more in-depth content, tied to appropriate academic standards, in the same period as a traditional course, with a high level of rigor in both requirements and assessments. In United States History II students continue to study United States history by exploring important historical moments from the Reconstruction era through the end of World War II. Students learn about the industrialization of this growing nation and the economic and social changes it underwent as the nation transitioned from an agricultural society to an industrial society. Students also analyze the challenges the nation faced as it was forced to choose between isolation and involvement in international armed conflicts. This course guides students as they interpret the extraordinary changes the nation went through after the American Civil War and examine how those changes ultimately led to the United States’ emergence as an international power at the conclusion of World War II.