Additional Electives

Elective Course
Suggested Grade Level: 11-12
Prerequisites: Teacher recommendation AND have scored a 3, 4, or 5 on teh AP Seminar exam.
Max. G.P.A.: 4.0 Credits: 1.0
Course Description: AP Research allows students to deeply explore an academic topic, problem, or issue of individual interest. Through this exploration, students design, plan, and conduct a year-long research based investigation to address a research question. In the AP Research course, students further their skills acquired in the AP Seminar course by understanding research methodology; employing ethical research practices; and accessing, analyzing, and synthesizing information as they address a research question.  Students explore their skill development, document their processes, and curate the artifacts of the development of their scholarly work in a portfolio. The course culminates in an academic paper of approximately 4000-5000 words (accompanied by a performance or exhibition of product where applicable) and a presentation with an oral defense. College credit is earned with a qualifying score on an AP exam.  College credit is earned with a qualifying score on an AP exam.

*Students may qualify for an AP Capstone Diploma by successfully completing both AP Seminar and AP Research (offered 2019-2020 school year); score a 3 or better on both AP Seminar and AP Research Exams.; and have a score of 3 or better on 4 other AP Exams of the student's choice.
*Students may qualify for an AP Seminar and Research Certificate by successfully completing both AP Seminar and AP Research and score a 3 or better on both AP Seminar and AP Research Exams.

Broadcasting - OTVX

Suggested Grade Level: 10-12
Prerequisite: Application and teacher recommendation, INTRODUCTION TO MEDIA ARTS course strongly recommended
Max. G.P.A.: 4.0 Credits: 1.0
Course Description: Students will learn the ethics of news gathering as they research news and apply a variety of methods, including interviewing. These methods will be utilized for students to broadcast topics relating to sports, features, weather, and current events, to the school and community. Students will explore the technological aspect of broadcasting, by working with Adobe Suite Software, Premiere, and Photoshop using the digital camera, editing tape, layering graphics, sound, and videos, and other techniques. In addition, the nature of public speaking will be examined, while stressing the importance of cooperation, organization, and meeting deadlines.

Mass Media

Suggested Grade Level 9-10
Prerequisite: None
Max. G.P.A.: 4.0 Credits: 1.0
Course Description: In this course, students will be taking a look at media's impact on society.  We will analyze texts of media ranging from movies, television, internet, music, news, etc. When analyzing these texts, we will consider how they have influenced society and what role they play in popular culture today. Students can expect to identify how a text effectively communicates an idea, evaluate information to form an independent opinion, and determine what makes a piece of media significant enough to resonate with the masses.

Yearbook Production: L'Histoire

Suggested Grade Level: 11 - 12
Prerequisite: Application and teacher recommendation
Max. G.P.A.: 4.0 Credits: 1.0
Course Description: The yearbook staff organizes the book, prepares page layouts, takes and develops photographs, writes copy, designs the cover, sells advertising, and keeps financial records of all sales. All of these skills are taught through the guidance of an adviser and several student editors. Students learn the importance of cooperation, organization, and meeting deadlines.

Forensic Science

Suggested Grade Level: 11-12
Prerequisites: Biology 1
Max. G.P.A.: 4.0 Credits: 1.0
Course Description: This course is a problem-based inquiry course dealing with Forensic sciences. Forensic science is the study of scientific principles, laboratory, and field methods that are used to solve crimes. Forensics provides impartial scientific evidence for use in the courts of law and in criminal investigations. Forensic science relies on multiple fields of science including biology, chemistry and anatomy. This course requires students to be detail oriented with good lab skills. Forensic science will investigate evidence and analyze crime scenes using inquiry-based investigations. A mature attitude is needed. This course will also explore pursuing a career in the areas of forensics, including the police force, psychology, and many others.

Astronomy

Suggested Grade Level: 10 -12
Prerequisites: Biology 1; Teacher Recommendation; Completion of Geometry or Advanced Geometry
Max. G.P.A.: 4.0 Credits: 1.0
Course Description:  This course focuses on the study of basic astronomical principles, stars, planets, and galaxies.  This course takes an in-depth look at the physical and chemical nature of the universe as well as the many matter-energy relationships that exist throughout space. An in-depth look at our galaxy and solar system will help students understand other concepts such as evolution, gravity, physical states, etc. This course explores areas of biology, chemistry and physics and encourages the development of scientific and technical skills that will be beneficial in numerous careers. In addition to astronomy, other atmospherically related sciences will also be explored.

Marine Biology

Suggested Grade Level: 11-12
Prerequisites:  Biology 1; Teacher Recommendation
Max. G.P.A.: 4.0 Credits: 1.0
Course Description:  This course addresses key concepts related to marine science, including ocean zones, seawater, habitats, and marine taxonomy.

Advanced Placement (AP) Environmental Science

Elective course
Suggested Grade Level: 10-12
Prerequisites: Successfully completing one year each of life science, physical science and algebra 1. Complete Application Process
Max G.P.A.: 5.0 Credits: 1.0
Course Description: The AP Environmental Science course is designed to be the equivalent of a one semester, introductory college course in environmental science, through which students engage with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world. The course requires that students identify and analyze natural and human-made environmental problems, evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and examine alternative solutions for resolving or preventing them. Environmental Science is interdisciplinary, embracing topics from geology, biology, environmental studies, environmental science, chemistry, and geography. College credit is earned with a qualifying score on an AP exam. Students must meet eligibility requirements and must take the A.P. exam in May to receive the weighted GPA and the Advanced Placement Course Title on the transcript.

Advanced Placement (AP) Psychology

Suggested Grade Level: 10-12
Prerequisite: A in US History/World History/Government & Civics/Psychology OR B (or higher) in AP US History/AP World/AP Human Geography; Social Studies teacher recommendation  
Max G.P.A.: 5.0 Credits: 1.0
Course Description: The purpose of the AP course in Psychology is to introduce the systematic and scientific study of the behavior and mental processes of human beings and other animals. Included is a consideration the psychological facts, principles and phenomena associated with each of the major sub-fields within psychology and the methods psychologists use in their science and practice. Students also learn about the ethics and methods psychologists use in their science and practice.  Major course topics include: Scientific Foundations of Psychology; Biological Bases of Behavior; Sensation & Perception; Learning; Cognitive Psychology; Developmental Psychology; Motivation, Emotion, & Personality; Clinical Psychology; Social Psychology. 

History through Film

Suggested Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite: None
Max G.P.A.: 4.0 Credits: 1.0
Course Description: This is an in-depth History elective that will examine key elements of U.S. History through Hollywood feature films and historical literature as historical evidence. Students will view movies and read various pieces of literature on various topics and participate in Socratic seminar discussions. Students will write essays comparing film evidence to information in more traditional sources (e.g... articles, film reviews and critical commentaries). The course is based around several broad questions: Is film/literature a legitimate historical source? To what extent is film/literature evidence legitimate? What determines the legitimacy or illegitimacy of film/literature evidence? Is film/literature evidence ever better than traditional historical sources? Can Hollywood films/literature be used to teach history?

Law and Justice 

Suggested Grade Level: 11-12
Prerequisite:  A or B in Integrated Social Studies or A.P. Human Geography
Max G.P.A.: 4.0 Credits: 1.0
Course Description: The major goal of this course is to provide a broad overview of the field of forensic psychology and an introduction to the people and procedures of the criminal justice system. Forensic Psychology will address the application of psychological research, methods, and expertise that come before the legal system. Some topics may include insanity, competency, jury-selection, expert-testimony, decision-making, dangerousness, interrogations, and the general nature of criminals. The topics of the study of Criminal Justice will include the history of the criminal justice system in America, prevention and causes of crime, modern police procedures and personnel, victims’ rights and the rights of the accused, correction including prison, parole and probation, a comparison between criminal and civil law procedures, and studies concerning the costs of crime.

Advanced Placement (AP) United States Government and Politics 

Suggested Grade Level: 11-12
Prerequisite: “A” in US History and Teacher Recommendation
Max G.P.A.: 5.0 Credits: 1.0
Course Description: This course provides an analytical perspective on government and politics in the United States. The course involves both the study of general concepts used to interpret U.S. politics and the analysis of specific case studies. It also requires familiarity with the various institutions, groups, beliefs, and ideas that constitute U.S. political reality. Topics include: public policy, civil rights and civil liberties, institutions of National Government, and political beliefs and behaviors. Students must produce a proficient writing piece to pass this class. To receive weighted credit, students must take the AP Exam.

Associated Student Body (ASB) Leadership - Student Government 

Suggested Grade Level: 9-12
Prerequisite: Election or Appointment to ASB Office
Max. G.P.A.: 4.0 Credits: 1.0
Course Description: Students learn the techniques and procedures of the democratic process. Students will develop a working knowledge of parliamentary procedure, public speaking, and elements of public leadership. These skills are practiced and refined through the day-to-day participation and design of various school related activities and events. Election or appointment to a designated ASB Office requires enrollment in this course.

JCTC Sociology (SOC 101 – 3 hours)

Offered at OCHS as part of the JCTC Junior CORE Program
Suggested Grade Level: 11
Prerequisite: None
Max. GPA: 4.0 Credits: 1.0 semester long course
Course Description: Sociology 101 fulfills part of the requirements of core curriculum. The purpose of this curriculum is to help students develop a number of skills and perspectives that can be used throughout their lives. Core courses should help students understand the history, contemporary society, and the future responsibilities to their society and other societies of the world. Students completing core courses should come out of them with greater sense of justice, improvement in their critical judgment, and a sense of how to continue to apply humanistic values in a world characterized by rapid change.

Other Electives

Cabinet Making Technology (1st Semester)

Suggested Grade Level: 10-12
Prerequisite: None
Max. GPA: 4.0 Credits: 1.0 semester long course
Course Description: This course is an overview of the cabinet and store fixture industries. Emphasis will be placed on the design and construction of face frame as well as frameless (32mm) systems. Each student will plan and build a vanity, kitchen cabinet, or store fixture which utilizes contemporary casework techniques.

Wood Finishing (2nd Semester)

Suggested Grade Level: 10-11
Prerequisite: None
Max. GPA: 4.0 Credits: 1.0 semester long course
Course Description: This course is an overview of contemporary spray finishing materials and processes for millwork assemblies. Each student will learn to set up and troubleshoot a variety of common finishing systems while experimenting with finishing materials and supplies.

Wood Product Manufacturing

Suggested Grade Level: 11-12
Prerequisite: None
Max. GPA: 4.0 Credits: 1.0
Course Description: This course is a continuation of woodworking with the emphasis being only on cabinet making. The student will be required to design and construct a medium to large piece of furniture that expresses a higher quality of workmanship and design. A great deal of emphasis will be placed on safety and operation of hand tools and machines as well as encouraging the student to be independent from the instructor and classmates.

Teacher / Office Aide

Elective
Suggested Grade Level: 12
Prerequisites: Teacher/Principal Approval; Must have at least a 2.5 cumulative GPA after Junior year; Must be on track for graduation
Max. G.P.A.: 4.0 Credit: 0 (THIS IS A NON-CREDIT COURSE) 
**May select ½ year or full year
Course Description: Students serve as a support within these various offices performing various duties when needed. Duties may include but are not limited to: copying, sorting, delivery, cleaning, inventory, mail, etc. At any time during the school year, this privilege may be suspended due to academic or behavior concerns.

Peer Tutoring

Elective
Prerequisites: Application and teacher recommendation
Grade Level: 10-12
Max. G.P.A.: 4.0 Credit: 0.5
** May take all year for 1.0 credit 
Course Description: Students serve as peer mentors to fellow students. At any time during the school year, this privilege may be suspended due to academic or behavior concerns.

Library Aide

Elective
Suggested Grade Level: 10-12
Prerequisites: Two Teacher Recommendation forms must be filled out. See library staff to pick up the form.Two students per period will be accepted.
MAX. G.P.A.: 4.0 Credit: 1.0 (all year course)
Course Description: Students will learn entry level skills necessary to work in a library and gain valuable research skills. Library Aides will be trained to: work the circulation desk, shelf read, shelve books, assist students with research, run the copiers, process new magazines, newspaper, books & repair computers and work with computers. In addition to daily responsibilities, students will contribute to assisting their peers in the library with technology programs and technology issues as they arise and have the opportunity to earn certifications for Google's G Suite applications. . Students will also participate in Student Technology Leadership Program (STLP). Students should have a love of books and/or computers/technology, be able to work independently, be self-motivated, be accurate and detail oriented, have an interest in helping others, be trustworthy and responsible, and have excellent behavior and attendance.

Child Care Lab 

Elective Course
Suggested Grade Level: 10-12
Prerequisites: TB Test as required by the state guidelines for anyone working in a daycare environment
Max. G.P.A.: 4.0 Credit: 1.0 Course
Description: This course is a hands-on lab experience in a daycare environment. Students will interact with children at various stages of human development. Activities include but are not limited to reading with children, playing with children, assisting teacher preparing lessons, etc.

Credit Recovery

Elective
Suggested Grade Level: 11-12
Prerequisites: Approval from Guidance Counselor
Max. G.P.A.: 0.0 Credit: 0.0
Course Description: This course is available for those students who have previously taken a course needed to meet graduation requirements and did not pass the course. Credit Recovery is located in a computer lab where students retake the course online through a school designated online program (Edgenuity). Once the needed course is completed, the grade/credit will be added to the student’s transcript.

BAHS Credit Recovery 

Suggested Grade Level: 11-12
Prerequisites: Approval from Guidance Counselor and principal at Buckner Alternative High School
Max. G.P.A.: 0.0 Credit: 0.0
Course Description: This course is available for those students who have previously taken courses needed to meet graduation requirements and did not pass those courses. BAHS Credit Recovery is located in a computer lab at Buckner Alternative High School where students retake the course online through a school designated online program. Once the needed course is completed, the grade/credit will be added to the student’s transcript. This is a more intensive credit recovery option.

Pathways to Careers

Elective Course
Suggested Grade Level: 12
Prerequisites: 2.25 GPA; Completed ILP; Identified Career Cluster; Have good attendance/discipline (confirmed by Counselor); Be a Senior on track for Graduation; Student Interview; Attend Mandatory Orientation Meeting; Have all paperwork turned into Instructor by set deadline.
****Must apply and sign contract.
*****Max. G.P.A.: 4.0 Credit: Maximum of 1.0 credit(Students on track to graduate and are in good standing with Attendance/Behavior may be allowed to leave for more than one period.)
Course Description: Pathways to Careers is a vocational education program for students who, through an arrangement between school and community based organizations, combine school-based instruction with on-the-job work experience related to their occupational training areas, and/or career interest (ILP). Students may earn wages while gaining valuable work experience in realistic settings. Employers emphasize technical knowledge, work habits and attitudes, and interpersonal skills. These skills give the students a head start in the labor market and experience in securing part-time jobs while continuing their education. In addition, employers provide periodic evaluations of the students’ work performance. At any time during the school year, this privilege may be suspended due to academic or behavior concerns.