THOMAS DOWNEY HIGH SCHOOL
A Modesto City School
PROGRAMMING GUIDE &
COURSE DESCRIPTION
CATALOG
2015-2016
TABLE OF CONTENTS
MCS Website: mcs4kids.com
2
Administrative Team……………
2
Counseling Staff………..………..
2
Round-Up.....…………………….
2
MCS Requirements………………..
3
How To Choose Classes………….
3
Changing a Class…………………
4
P.E. Requirements…………………
5
Health Center Information….…..
5
Renaissance……………….……..
5
Bell Schedule………………………
6
Club Advisors……………………
6
Graduation Requirements…………….…..…
7
College Preparation …………………………
7
University of California & California State
University Entrance A-G Requirements……..
8
CSU Eligibility Index………………………….
8
Eligibility in the Local Context (ELC)………..
9
UC Entrance Requirements………………….
9, 10
NCAA Eligibility………………………..…….
10
Extra Curricular Eligibility……………………
11
A-G Approved Courses Offered 2015-16….
12
College Planning Calendar ………………….
13
Sample 4-Year Academic Plan ………………
14
Academic Planning Worksheet……………..
14
Class Designations …………………………..
15
Course Descriptions
A Modesto City School
Agriculture………………………...
15
Business……………………………
16
English……………………………..
16
Foreign Language…………………..
18
Health…………………………...…
20
Math……………………………….
20
Physical Education…………………
23
Practical Arts……………………...
24
Science………………………….…
26
Social Science……………………..
27
Visual and Performing Arts……….
28
Other Electives……………………
31
ROP……………………………….
32
1
MODESTO CITY SCHOOLS WEBSITE
ADMINISTRATIVE TEAM
Richard Baum, Principal
Justin Krone, Associate Principal
Curriculum and Instruction
Mary Lomax, Assistant Principal
Pupil Services
Chris Chilles, Assistant Principal
Student Supervision
Ossiel Ramirez, Administrator of
Student and Family Support Services
COUNSELING STAFF
Leah Verderame
Academic Counselor
576-4241
Christine Hammell
College Counselor
569-2979
Michelle Luz
Academic Counselor
576-4236
Jana Osgood
Academic Counselor
576-4245
Tish Nuno-Traverso
Academic Counselor
576-4242
Please see your student’s schedule for their
assigned counselor in the fall of 2016.
Or for more information please contact the
Counseling Office at 576-4245.
ROUND-UP
An Orientation Day called Round-Up is planned for sometime around the beginning of August at Downey.
You should receive a packet in the mail describing it. Administrators, counseling staff, and others will be
on hand to provide information about student programs, district, and site procedures.
On that day, you will visit a series of stations with the forms you received in your packet. You may
purchase your Student Body card, yearbook, PE clothes, etc. at the stations. At the final station, you will
pick up your new class schedule and a map of the school. You should visit your classrooms and familiarize
yourself with the course at that time. Downey High’s student clubs and organizations will have information
and materials available during Round-Up day. DON’T MISS OUT!
2
THOMAS DOWNEY HIGH SCHOOL
To Students and Parents:
Please read this Programming Guide carefully. It will help
you to select your classes for the next year and the three
years following.
1.
2.
3.
4.
All ninth grade students must take six (6) classes. Ninth
grade students are required to take a course in: English,
Mathematics, Science, World Geography/Health and
Physical Education. Some students will also be assigned
a support class in one or more subject areas. In addition,
you may select one (1) elective and two (2) alternative
electives. Please mark your choices #1, #2, and #3, in
order of your preference.
Students will receive an official ballot on which they are
to mark selections. Please be sure to print student’s full
legal name on the front page and both student and
parent should sign the back.
If students are enrolled in an 8th class, they must remain
in that class for the entire quarter/semester. Classes will
meet from 7:55 am to 2:55 pm. Late buses are available
at 3:30PM and 5:00PM.
To receive credit for activities such as athletics,
students must sign up for an optional period. Students in
competitive sports must also take a freshman P.E. class.
HOW TO CHOOSE CLASSES
CHOOSE YOUR CLASSES WISELY. THERE IS LITTLE, IF
ANY, OPPORTUNITY TO CHANGE YOUR MIND AFTER YOUR
BALLOT IS TURNED INTO THE HIGH SCHOOL. IF YOU
DON’T WANT TO TAKE A CLASS, DO NOT CHOOSE IT ON
YOUR BALLOT.
When choosing courses to take for your freshman year,
you must consider the following factors:
Required Courses – All freshmen will have English, Math,
Science, Physical Education, and World Geography/
Health. (Check the Graduation Sample Programs)
College Preparation – If you plan to go to a state college
or university, you must have College Prep (CP) classes or
higher all four years in high school. If you plan to go to a
community college, these courses will be very helpful.
Additional information: Entering high school is a significant step for both students and parents. Getting started
and continuing on the right track is very important. We
encourage you to contact your counselor for assistance
with any problems or questions you might have.
MCS BOARD POLICY
Levels of
Course Offerings
Students are responsible for completing all courses assigned
to them on their official schedule of classes. Students can
be removed from assigned classes only by the principal or
his designee.
Students who do not pick up their schedules in August or
attend the first day of school will be dropped from their
assigned courses and must re-enroll on the first day they
return to school.
Unless specifically designated as quarter or semester classes,
all courses are a full year long.
MCS GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
In order to receive a diploma of graduation, a student must
complete the following graduation requirements:
Pass 230 units
Pass required courses
A Modesto City School
PRE–ADVANCED PLACEMENT (Pre-AP) – Students enrolled in
Pre-AP classes should have an excellent ability in reading
comprehension and writing. The wide range and complexity of
materials and concepts offers the more able student the
opportunity to understand the rich history of the various
disciplines. Students in advanced courses will be expected to
read assigned literature, complete research papers, make oral
presentations, design special projects, and work independently
and in groups. The level is approved by the University of
California for entrance upon graduation.
COLLEGE PREPARATORY (CP) – Students enrolled in college
prep classes should have a strong ability in reading comprehension and writing. It is highly recommended that the students in
these classes have better than average study and organizational
skills. The students in college prep classes will be expected to
read assigned literature, complete written reports, and make
oral presentations, design special projects, work independently
and in groups. (College Prep classes are approved by the
University of California for entrance upon graduation.)
3
MODESTO CITY SCHOOL’S REGISTRATION
PROCEDURES FOR CHANGING ASSIGNED COURSES – GRADES 9 - 12
Students are responsible for completing every course assigned to their official schedule of classes.
Courses chosen at the time of registration will be assigned to the student’s official schedule of
classes.
CLASS CHANGE PROCEDURES
All requests for class change will be made using the ‘Petition for Class Change’ form.
Parents, students or teachers can initiate changes. However, unless all information, including
signatures is complete, forms will not be processed.
Semester Class:
A student may request to change one class for a dissimilar class ( example: from Algebra to
Art or from Algebra to General Math, but not from Algebra to Algebra) with no penalty or
restriction within the first 20 instructional days of a semester provided:
1. The student submits compelling reasons for the change.
2. The counselor approves the change into a new class.
3. The student shall be required to obtain the approval of a parent and the Associate
Principal, Curriculum and Instruction or Assistant Principal, Pupil Personnel Services.
4. Students going from one class to a dissimilar class will not transfer a grade from
previous class (example: a student going from Algebra to Art will start Art class without
a previous grade).
After the deadline date to drop a course:
1. Students shall not drop courses unless, in the judgment of the Assistant Principal, Pupil
Personnel Services, or the Associate Principal, Curriculum and Instruction, there are
serious extenuating circumstances.
2. Students shall obtain parent approval.
3. Drops after the 20th day will result in a semester grade of “F”.
Quarter Classes (e.g. PE):
1. A student may change one class for a dissimilar class within the first 10 days of a
quarter under the same provisions as listed under #1 of the semester class.
2. A student may not change a quarter class after the 10th school day.
3. Drops after the 10th day will result in a quarter grade of “F”.
Appeal Procedures:
Students may be allowed to appeal the decision of the Associate Principal, Curriculum and
Instruction and/or Assistant Principal, Pupil Personnel Services.
4
THOMAS DOWNEY HIGH SCHOOL
PHYSICAL EDUCATION DRESS REQUIREMENTS
1.
All students are expected to provide neat and clean
gym clothes at the beginning of each week.
2.
All students are expected to wear gym clothes for all
activity classes, unless other arrangements are
specified.
3.
Recommended dress for physical education classes will
consist of the following items:
a.
Trunk-type gym shorts
recommended)
b.
A standard white crew T-shirt with sleeves.
c.
White athletic socks (stripes are permissible).
d.
Tennis shoes with a lace or Velcro-type closing
are necessary. Sandals, slip-ons, heels, or shoes
with buckles are not allowed (wide, flat rubbersoled tennis shoes are recommended).
e.
Sweat suits are recommended during cold weather (standard solid color cotton blend is preferable).
f.
4.
5.
(the school color is
Leotards and tights may be used for dance and
gymnastic classes.
All physical education clothing must be permanently
marked for identification (student’s last name and first
initial). The name should be written below the left
shoulder on all T-shirts and sweatshirts. Leotards should
be marked on the inside. The name should be written on
the middle of the left thigh when using shorts, sweat
pants, and tights.
Students will not be allowed to participate in a physical
education class if they are not properly dressed.
HEALTH CENTER INFORMATION
Emergency Cards
Students will only be released from school to the parent,
guardian, or person(s) listed on the registration card (with
proper ID). Please keep information on the registration card
current. If you work outside Modesto proper, please leave the
name and number of a local person whom we may contact.
Call 576-4211 to update or change your home or work
telephone number or that of the designated person(s) on the
registration card.
Immunizations
Your child’s immunizations must be up-to-date before he or
she can be enrolled in school. If additional immunizations are
needed, they may be obtained from your physician or from the
Health Services Agency Immunization Department.
The
Immunization Department is located at 820 Scenic Drive. A
fee of $10.00 is charged for each immunization and
appointments are not necessary – please call 558-4818 for
more information and clinic hours. No one will be denied
immunization due to inability to pay. If you don’t know if
your child’s
immunizations are up-to-date, please call the
school Health Center 576-4254.
receive prescription or over-the-counter medication during
school hours. This includes asthma inhalers and Epipens.
Medications must be sent to school in the original
prescription container. Medication cannot be brought to
school and kept in lockers, purses or pockets.
Also,
medication must be checked in at the nurse’s office.
Students may carry asthma inhalers or Epipens on their
person if their parent/guardian has completed the “School
Inhaler Procedures” or “Epipen Procedures” form and the
student has demonstrated to the school nurse the ability to
properly use the inhaler or Epipen.
Sports Physical
A physical examination is strongly recommended for each
freshman prior to the beginning of the school year. Any
student planning to participate in a sports program or
become a cheerleader must have a physical. A physical
examination may be obtained from your private physician or
at the sports physical screening provided by Modesto City
Schools. The P.E. Department will notify students of the date
and location of the clinics. Also, watch for the date in the
sports section of The Modesto Bee.
Health Problems
If your child has any health problems the school needs to be
aware of, such as diabetes, heart problems, seizures,
asthma, allergies requiring Epipen, ADHD, etc., please notify
the school Health Center staff at 576-4254 to ensure your
child is safe and successful in school.
RENAISSANCE
Our commitment to excellence under Renaissance has given
recognition to thousands of individuals including students, staff, and
community members. It will continue to touch thousands more in
the future. The purpose of the Renaissance Program is to recognize
and reward those students who are achieving academic excellence
with tangible incentives and rewards. This fast growing program has
brought honors and recognition for Thomas Downey High School
on a national and state level and is highly regarded by the City of
Modesto. Renaissance involves the merging of our business
community with our educational system. Working together in a
commitment to promoting academic excellence will benefit the
entire community.
Students receive recognition for the following reasons:
Silver Card - Straight A’s
Blue Card
- A’s & B’s or a 3.5 GPA or higher
White Card - Increase GPA by 0.5 or better
from previous grading period
Gold Card
- Perfect attendance for the grading period
Incentives given are tee shirts, pins, food coupons, discounts at local
merchants, special guest speakers, talent shows, and a tremendously
fun Spring awards day called “Day on the Green”.
Renaissance also honors and recognizes two Downey teachers each
year as Teachers of Excellence where they are recognized at the
Senior Scholarship Assembly and Graduation.
Medication
You are required to complete a special form that must be
signed by you and your physician in order for your child to
A Modesto City School
5
HIGH SCHOOL BELL SCHEDULE
REGULAR SCHEDULE
Period
From
To
Period
From
To
1
2
3
4th Lunch
5
6
7
8
7:55
8:50
9:45
10:40
11:21
12:16
1:11
2:06
8:44
9:39
10:34
11:15
12:10
1:05
2:00
2:55
1
2
3
4
5th Lunch
6
7
8
7:55
8:50
9:45
10:40
11:35
12:16
1:11
2:06
8:44
9:39
10:34
11:29
12:10
1:05
2:00
2:55
MINIMUM DAY and EARLY RELEASE SCHEDULE
Period
1
2
3
4th Lunch
5
6
7
8
From
7:55
8:38
9:21
10:04
11:21
12:16
1:11
2:06
To
8:32
9:15
9:58
10:15
12:10
1:05
2:00
2:55
Period
1
2
3
4
5th Lunch
6
7
8
From
7:55
8:38
9:21
10:40
11:35
12:16
1:11
2:06
To
8:32
9:15
9:58
11:29
12:10
1:05
2:00
2:55
TDHS CLUB ADVISORS 2015-2016
The following list is subject to change:
Club
Advisor, Room
Ag Mechanics
Anime Club
AVID
Band Club
Black Student Union (BSU)
Choir Club
Classical Music
Color Guard
Creative Writing
CSF
Dance Club
Disc Golf Club
Drama Club
Environmental Club
FBLA-Future Business Leaders of America
FCA-Fellowship of Christian Athletes
FFA-Future Farmers of America
FHA/HERO
GSA
Hispanic Youth Lead. Council (HYLC)
ICC
Instrumentalists Club
Interact Club
Key Club
Knights/Christ
Library Club
Link Crew
Medical Biotech
Navy Seal
NKLB
PHAST
Pura Vida Club—Autism Awareness
Renaissance
Mike Schilperoort, Rm 103
Deborah Grochau, Rm 95
Caren Brady, Rm 65
Joanne Neuffer, Rm 20
TBD
Joanne Neuffer, Rm 20
Diana Taylor, Rm 85
Joanne Neuffer, Rm 20
Kendall Graham, Rm 54
K.Durham Rm 75
Ginger Sharp, Dance Room
Jeff Wengel, Rm 200A
Michael Johnson, Rm 21
Joel Ward, Rm 52
Tony Ippolito, Rm 81
Tony Ippolito, Rm 81
Susan Beatty Rm 101
Chris May, Rm 30
Alexander Adams, Rm 200B
Luis Flores, Rm 64
Luis Flores, Rm 64
Joanne Neuffer, Rm 20
Castro & Green, Rm 33
Luis Flores, Rm 64
Gerry Castleberry, Rm 301
Dan Stemig, Librarian
Bill Roe, Student Center
Elizabeth Jesberg, Rm 79
Chris Chilles
Annette Green, Rm 34
Michael Johnson, Rm 201
Brandon Fromm, Rm 72
Bill Roe, Student Center
6
Club
Advisor, Room
Science
Snow Club
Support our Vets
Video Game Club
Visual Media
Yearbook
Dan Harris, Rm 84
Carlos Garrido, Rm 132
Kermit Albritton, Rm 96
Brad Beltz, Rm 78
Tim Vesey, Rm 210
Rene Guevara, Rm 211
Class Advisors
Activities Director
Bill Roe, Student Center
ASB (Associated Student Body) Mike Johnson, Rm 22
2016 (Seniors)
Scott Underwood, Rm 133
2017 (Juniors)
Angela Hensley
2018 (Sophomores)
Kermit Albritton, Rm 96
2019 (Freshmen)
Philip Schmidt, Rm 113
THOMAS DOWNEY HIGH SCHOOL
COURSE REQUIREMENTS
GRADUATING CLASSES OF 2016-2019
COLLEGE PREPARATION
College Preparation Program
Students planning to enroll in a college or
university should make an appointment to see a
college counselor to discuss programming to
meet California State University and University
of California entrance requirements (A-G).
(Including the successful completion of Algebra or Secondary Math 1)
Junior College Entrance Requirements
Graduation from high school, passing the
California High School Proficiency Examination,
or reaching the minimum age of 18 years are
the only requirements for junior college
admission. There are no subject or grade
requirements. However, the better preparation
a student has in high school, the better the
chances for success at junior college.
OR
CSU (California State
Entrance Requirements
Eight (8) Quarters
University)
Students qualify for regular admission as a
first-time freshman if they:
1. are a high school graduate,
2. have a qualifiable eligibility index (see
following CSU Eligibility Index), and have
completed, with grades of C or better, each
of the courses in the comprehensive pattern
of
*c o lle ge
p rep a ra to ry
su bje c t
requirements (see “Subject Requirement”).
PROFICIENCY AND STATE
A Modesto City School
7
UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA & CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS
The chart below shows the subject requirements for admission to the University of California and California
State University systems. (referred to as “a-g”) All courses must be CP, Pre AP or AP level and be on the
UC a-g course list. Students must earn “C” grades or better and make up deficiencies in summer school or
during the regular school year.
a-g Subject Requirements
Years Required
a. HISTORY/SOCIAL SCIENCE
Two(2) years required, including one year of world history, cultures, and geography and one year
of U.S. History or one-half year of U.S. History and one-half year of Civics or American
Government.
b. ENGLISH
Four (4) years of college-preparatory English that includes frequent and regular writing and
reading of classic and modern literature.
c. MATHEMATICS
Three (3) years of college preparatory mathematics that includes the topics covered in
elementary and advanced algebra and two-and three-dimensional geometry.
d. LABORATORY SCIENCE
Two (2) years laboratory science providing fundamental knowledge in at least two of these three
disciplines: biology, chemistry, and physics.
e. LANGUAGE OTHER THAN
ENGLISH
Two (2) years of the same language other than English
f. VISUAL AND PERFORMING
ARTS
One year including dance, drama/theatre, music or visual art.
g. COLLEGE PREPARATORY
ELECTIVES
In addition to those courses required in “a-f” above one year (two semesters) of college
preparatory electives are required, chosen from advanced visual and performing arts, history,
social science, English, advanced mathematics, laboratory science, and language other than
English.
ELIGIBILITY INDEX TABLE FOR CALIFORNIA HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES
OR RESIDENTS OF CALIFORNIA
CSU Eligibility Index
In addition, a student must
qualify on the eligibility index.
This eligibility index is the
combination of high school
grade point
average (GPA)
and test scores on either the
American College Test (ACT) or
the Scholastic Aptitude Test
(SAT). The grade point average
is based on grades earned during the final three years of high
school (excluding physical education) and bonus points for
each C or better in approved
honors courses. Up to eight
semesters of honors courses
taken in the last two years of
high school can be accepted.
CSU may offer early, provisional admission based on work
completed through the junior
year of high school and planned
for the senior year.
8
The CSU Eligibility Index is subject to change due to
revisions to the SAT test.
THOMAS DOWNEY HIGH SCHOOL
CSU SYSTEMWIDE TESTS REQUIRED OF MOST NEW STUDENTS
The English Placement Test (EPT) and the Entry Level
Mathematics (ELM) are required of all incoming students PRIOR
to enrolling in college classes unless students are exempt from
the test(s). These are not admission tests, but a way to
determine whether students are prepared for college work
and, if not, to counsel students regarding how to strengthen
their preparation. Students might be exempt from one or both
of the tests if they have scored well on other specified tests or
completed appropriate courses.
The CSU English Placement Test (EPT) is designed to assess
the level of reading and writing skills of students entering the
California State University. The CSU EPT must be completed
by all non-exempt entering undergraduates prior to
enrollment in any course, including remedial courses. Students
who score 147 or above on the EPT will be placed in collegelevel composition classes. Specific policies regarding retesting
and placement will be determined by the campus. Exemptions
from the test are given only to those who present proof of one
of the following
 An Early Assessment Program (EAP) Status of Standard
Exceeded and Standard Met
 Completion of a qualifying English community college
course that satisfies the CSU General Education
requirement (Area A2), provided such a course was
completed with a grade of C or better
 A qualifying score on the National Standardized Tests:
 SAT: 500 or more on the Critical Reading section;
 ACT: 22 or more on the English Test;
 AP: 3 ore more on either the Language & Composition or
Literature & Composition exam.
UC ELIGIBILITY IN THE LOCAL CONTEXT
Under the Eligibility in the Local Context (ELC) pathway, the top 9% of the state's high school graduates are
eligible for admission to the UC’s nine undergraduate
campus. If you rank in the top 9 percent of students in
your California high school class — and your high school
participates in the ELC program — you may be eligible
for ELC designation.
Identifying the top 9 percent of students is based on
GPA in UC-approved coursework completed in the
10th and 11th grades. To be considered for ELC, you
must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and completed the
following 11 UC approved "a-g" courses prior to the start
of your senior year:
 History/social science
1 year
 English
2 years
 Mathematics
2 years
 Laboratory science
1 year
 Language other than English 1 year
 College-preparatory elective 4 year long
(chosen from the subjects listed above or another course
approved by the university)
After you enter your coursework and grades in the UC
application, we'll compare your GPA to the historic top
GPA for your school. If you meet or exceed that GPA,
you'll be designated ELC and it will be noted on your UC
application. Visit http://admission.universityofcalifornia.edu/freshman/
california-residents/index.html for further review and explanation.
A Modesto City School
 A score of “Conditional” on the CSU EAP taken in grade 11,
provided successful completion of the Expository Reading
and Writing Course or AP English Literature.
The CSU Entry Level Mathematics (ELM) Exam is designed to
assess and measure the level of mathematics skills acquired
through three years of rigorous college preparatory mathmatics coursework (Algebra I and II, and Geometry) of students
entering the California State University (CSU). The CSU ELM
must be completed by all non-exempt entering undergraduates prior to enrollment in any course, including remedial courses. Students who score 50 or above on the ELM will be
placed in college-level mathematics classes. Specific policies
regarding retesting and placement will be determined by the
campus. Exemptions from the test are given only to those
students who can present proof of one of the following:
 A score of 23 or above on the ACT Mathematics Test.
 A score of 3 or above on the Advanced Placement Mathematics Examination (AB or BC).
 A score of 3 or above on the Advanced Placement Statistics
examination.
 A score of “Exempt” on the CSU EAP taken in grade 11.
 A score of “Conditional” on the CSU EAP taken in grade 11,
provided the successful completion of a CSU approved 12th
grade math course that has Algebra II as a prerequisite.
The EPT and ELM tests should be taken at the earliest opportunity after admission to a California State University. To
register for the test, visit www.ets.org/csu/registration
UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA
ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS
Subject Requirement
To satisfy the Subject Requirements, students must complete
high school courses with a grade point average defined by the
Scholarship Requirement. This sequence of courses is also
known as the "a-g" requirements.
Students must take 15 units of high school courses to fulfill
the Subject Requirements, and at least 7 of the 15 units must
be taken in the last two years of high school. (A unit is equal
to an academic year or two semesters of study.)
Applicants from California High Schools: To satisfy the "a-g"
requirements, the courses must appear on the school's
UC-approved certified course list. The lists are also available
on the World Wide Web at www.ucop.edu/doorways/list.
Grade Point Average
To determine your eligibility, the University calculates your
GPA in the "a-g" subjects by assigning point values to the
grades you earn, totaling the points and dividing the total by
the number of "a-g" courses. Points are assigned as follows:
A=4 points, B=3 points, C=2 points, D=1 point, and F=0 points.
(Pluses and minuses are not calculated in the grade point
average.) Only the grades you earn in "a-g" subjects in the
10th and 11th grades - including summer sessions - are used to
calculate your preliminary GPA. Courses you took in ninth
grade can be used to meet the Subject Requirement if you
earned a grade of C or better, but they will not be used to
calculate your GPA.
9
UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA
ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS continued
Advanced Placement Courses: The University assigns extra
points for up to eight semesters of University-certified Advanced Placement courses taken in the last three years of high
school: A=5 points, B=4 points, C=3 points. No more than two
yearlong UC-approved honors level courses taken in the 10th
grade may be given extra points. A grade of D in an honors or
advanced placement course does not earn extra points.
The courses must be in the following "a-g" subjects: history/
social science, English, advanced mathematics, laboratory
science, language other than
English, and visual and
performing arts. Also, they must be certified as Advanced
Placement courses by the University.
D and F Grades: If you have earned a D or F in an "a-g" course,
you must
repeat the course with a grade of C or better.
The original D or F grade will not be included in the GPA calculation, and the new grade will be used. If you repeat a
course in which you initially earned a grade of C, the second
grade will not be used.
Test Score Total
If you took the SAT Exam: The University uses your highest
scores in critical reading, math and writing from a single
sitting.
ACT
If you took the ACT plus its Writing exam:
The University takes your highest math, reading, science and
combined English/writing score from a single sitting and
converts them to equivalent SAT scores (see link to concordance table).
www.act.org/aap/concordance/estimate.html
NCAA ELIGIBILITY
Students planning to enroll in college as a freshman and want
to participate in Division I or Division II athletics, must be certified by the NCAA Initial Eligibility Clearinghouse. The Clearinghouse ensures consistent interpretation of NCAA initial eligibility requirements for all prospective student athletes at all
member institutions.
Students should start this process no later than the spring of
their junior year in high school. It is the student's responsibility
to make sure the Clearinghouse has the following documents it
needs to certify:


A completed and signed student release form and fee

ACT or SAT scores (Student is responsible for requesting
their test scores be sent directly to the Clearinghouse.)
An official transcript mailed directly from every high
school attended.
Visit www.ncaa.org for more comprehensive review and explanation
NCAA Divisions I and II initial eligibility require 16 core
courses. See list below.
► Beginning August 1, 2016, NCAA Division I will require 10
core courses to be completed prior to the seventh semester
(seven of the 10 must be a combination of English, math or
natural or physical science that meet the distribution requirements below). These 10 courses become "locked in" at the start
of the seventh semester and cannot be retaken for GPA
improvement.
DIVISION I - 16 Core Courses
4 years of English.
3 years of mathematics (Algebra I or higher).
2 years of natural/physical science (1 year of lab if offered
by high school).
1 year of additional English, mathematics or natural/
physical science.
2 years of social science.
4 years of additional courses (from any area above, foreign
language or comparative religion/philosophy).
DIVISION II - 16 Core Courses
3 years of English.
2 years of mathematics (Algebra I or higher).
2 years of natural/physical science (1 year of lab if offered
by high school).
3 years of additional English, mathematics or natural/
physical science.
2 years of social science.
4 years of additional courses (from any area above, foreign
language or comparative religion/philosophy).
FINANCIAL AID AND SCHOLARSHIPS
A college education is more important than ever. However
during recent years, education costs have steadily risen. The
good news is…financial aid is available. The primary goal of
financial aid is to make student access to education opportunities possible by removing financial barriers which would exclude financially needy, but otherwise eligible, students from
specific schools and programs. Financial aid is available through
private, public, state, and federal student aid programs.
Students should also apply directly for any scholarships sponsored by individuals, organizations, and institutions for which
they might qualify. For additional sources of scholarships and
financial assistance see your college counselor.
10
THOMAS DOWNEY HIGH SCHOOL
English
Thomas
Downey High
School
CA State University
Entrance
Requirements
University of CA
Entrance
Requirements
Graduation
Requirements
(all classes must be CP level
or higher; grade MUST be C
or higher)
4 Years
4 Years
(all classes must be CP level
or higher; grade MUST be C
or higher)
4 Years
3 Years
through Algebra
3 Years
Algebra
Geometry
Advanced Algebra
3 Years
(4 years recommended)
Algebra
Geometry
Advanced Algebra
2 Years
1 year life science
1 year physical science or
2 years integrated science
2 years
1 year life science (Biology or
Anatomy)
1 year physical science
(Chemistry or Senior Year
Physics)
2 Years
World History
U.S. History
Government
2 Years
(3 years recommended)
2 Years
2 Years
(3 years recommended)
in the same language
in the same language
1 Year
(visual or performing arts)
1 Year
(visual or performing arts)
Not Required, Not Included in
GPA
Not Required, Not Included in
GPA
Not Required, Not Included in
GPA
Not Required, Not Included in
GPA
Not Required, Not Included in
GPA
Not Required, Not Included in
GPA
1 Year
College Prep (CP) electives in
History, English, Math, Foreign
Language, Science and Fine Arts
1 Year
College Prep (CP) electives in
History, English, Math, Foreign
Language, Science and Fine Arts
15 Full Year Courses
(more for competitive
campuses)
15 Full Year Courses (more for
competitive campuses) NOTE:
You must complete 11 of the
15 courses by end of junior year
Math
Laboratory Science
Social Studies
Foreign Language
Visual Performing
Art
3.5 years
World Geo./Religions
World History
U.S. History
Government/Economics
1 Year
In Career Tech (ROP)
OR
In a Foreign Language
OR
In a Visual Performing Art
Practical Art
1 semester
P.E.
2 Years
Health
1 Semester
Electives
65 Credits
Total Credits
230 Credits
2 Years
World History
U.S. History
Government
Seniors (Class of 2016) must fulfill the Computer Literacy proficiency and meet all
graduation requirements in order to receive a Thomas Downey High Diploma.
A Modesto City School
11
12
THOMAS DOWNEY HIGH SCHOOL




▫
▫
▫
▫
▫
▫
▫
▫
▫
▫
▫
▫
____ ____□ Statistics or AP Statistics
____ ____□ Secondary Math 3
____ ____□ Secondary Math 2
____ ____□ Secondary Math 1
____ ____□ AP Calculus BC
____ ____□ AP Calculus AB
____ ____□ Pre-AP Pre-Calculus
____ ____□ Pre-Calculus
____ ____□ Finite Math
____ ____□ Pre-AP Adv. Algebra
____ ____□ Adv. Algebra
Art 1-2
Ceramics 1-2
Dance 1-4/Dance Production
Drama 1-8
Drawing and Painting
Drawing/Painting Watercolors
Graphic Design 1-2
Guitar 1-4
History & Art of Floral Design
History & Art of Floral Design ROP
Music of the 20th Century
Oral Interpretation/Perf. Arts
▫
▫
▫
▫
▫
▫
▫
▫
▫
▫
▫
▫
Photography
Sculptural Design
Studio Art (AP)
Theater Stagecraft 1-2
Video Arts & Production 1-2
Choir 1-8
Band 1-8/Jazz Band/Orchestra 1-8
Advanced Treble Clef 3-8
Intermediate Treble Clef Choir 1-8
Concert Choir 1-8
Bass Clef Choir
Piano
1 year required
Other A-G classes taken on this sheet can also
count as a CP elective in this box, provided the
minimum college entrance requirements have
been met in a-f boxes
____ ____□ Speech/Adv. Speech
____ ____□ Psychology (CP or AP)
____ ____□ Pre-AP Physics
____ ____□ Journalism 1-2
____ ____□ Integrated Ag Science 1-2
____ ____□ CP Earth Science
____ ____□ AVID Senior Seminar
____ ____□ Animal Science 3-4
1 year required
G -Elective
One from Life Science
____ ____□ Integrated Ag. Science 3-4
____ ____□ Biology (CP)
____ ____□ Pre-AP Biology
____ ____□ Biology (AP)
____ ____□ Advanced Biology
____ ____□ Integrated Ag. Biology
____ ____□ Anatomy and Physiology
One from Physical Science
____ ____□ Chemistry (CP)
____ ____□ Pre-AP Chemistry
____ ____□ Chemistry (AP)
____ ____□ Physics (AP)
To help you complete this worksheet/checklist, you will need a printout of your transcript from the counseling office.
You must be enrolled in CP Courses.
You must earn C’s or better in all required A-G courses. D’s & F’s in a required course must be repeated!
You must complete 11 of the 15 courses by the end of your junior year.
_____ ___□ Spanish I/French I
____ ____□ Spanish II/French II
____ ____□ Spanish III/French III
____ ____□ Spanish IV/French IV
____ ____□ Spanish for Span Spk 3
____ ____□ Spanish for Span Spk 4
____ ____□ Spanish for Span Spk 5
____ ____□ Spanish Language (AP)
____ ____□ Spanish Literature (AP)
____ ____□ American Sign Language I
____ ____□ American Sign Language II
2 years required / 3 years recommended
E-Language Other than English
____ ____□ U.S. Govt/Econ (AP)
____ ____□ U.S. Govt/Econ (CP)
____ ____□ U.S. History (AP)
____ ____□ U.S. History (CP)
____ ____□ Pre-AP AP Geometry
____ ____□ Geometry
____ ____□ Algebra
D-Laboratory Science
2 years required, 3 years recommended
C-Mathematics
Name______________
ID# _______________
Date_______________
Grade______________
College_____________
3 years required, 4 years recommended
F-Visual & Performing Arts
____ ____□ English 1-2 (CP)
____ ____□ Pre-AP English 1-2
____ ____□ English 3-4 (CP)
____ ____□ Pre-AP English 3-4
____ ____□ English 5-6 (CP)
____ ____□ English Language (AP)
____ ____□ English 7-8 (CP)
____ ____□ English Literature (AP)
____ ____□ Expository Reading and
__________Writing Course
____ ____□ World History (CP)
____ ____□ European History (AP)
B-English
4 years required
2 years Required
The following courses meet requirements for admission to the University of California
and the California State University systems.
UC / CSU Approved “A—G” Course List
A-History / Social Science
So far, are
you on track
for A-G?
Yes or No
COLLEGE PLANNING CALENDAR
September
August
Freshman
 Review your high school course
 Reduce your list to 5 to 10
plans.
 Make plans to take PSAT.
 Request SAT I, ACT, SAT II
 Begin your high school years by
getting in the habit of doing your
best in all courses.
 Take the PSAT
October
 Explore the resources available  Check for any college fairs in
to you in your guidance office,
school library, or career
center.
your area.
 Take the PSAT
colleges.
registration forms.
 Work on your application essays.
 Take the SAT 1, II and ACT, if
necessary.
 Ask teachers to write
recommendations.
spend time on identifying the
following:
Goals and values
Academic interests and abilities
Activities and outside interests
Personality and relationships
with others
Possible career interests
 Continue to do your best in all
your courses.
 Begin to explore college
 Take the SAT I, II and ACT, if
possibilities.
 Continue to do your best in all
your courses.
 Give your counselor the school
 PSAT scores reports will be
returned.
 Make plans to visit colleges
during your school vacations.
March
goals.
 Talk to your counselor about
 Eventually, you will be required to
the possibility of taking SAT II
take admission tests that measure
tests.
skills in various areas. One of the  Consider taking AP exams
things you can do now in an effort
next year.
to be in the best position to
succeed is to develop good
reading habits throughout your
high school years. Those students
who do so will find they have
higher scores.
 Register for the SAT II tests, if
appropriate.
report forms.
UC application due Nov. 30th.
File CSU application.
Scholarship application is due.
Begin applying for scholarships.
 Complete all your applications.
 Take the SAT I, II and ACT, if
necessary.
 Pay attention to all deadlines.
 Apply to community colleges.
 Start exploring financial aid
 Attend a financial aid workshop
possibilities.
 Talk to your counselor about
the possibility of taking SAT II
tests.
with your parents and submit your
FAFSA.
 Explore all possible scholarship
opportunities.
 Be sure to get your FAFSA/GPA
Verification Form sent by March 2.
 Register for the SAT I, II and/or
 Respond to all requests from
ACT tests, if appropriate.
 Consider taking AP exams next
year.
 If you have not done so already
 Take the SAT I either now or in
May.
colleges for additional information.
send in your FAFSA and GPA
verification form.
 Consider taking AP exams.
 Continue to do your best in all
your courses
 FAFSA due March 2nd.
 Fine-tune your list of college
possibilities.
 Begin writing to colleges and
universities you are interested in
about programs they offer and
to request information on
scholarships.
 Take the SAT I, if you did not in
April
May
A Modesto City School
necessary.




December
January
Senior
& next three years.
course plans.
 Begin writing high school resume  Ask your counselor about
– keep track of all extrataking the PSAT.
curricular activities, academic
awards, community involvement,
etc..
 Continue to evaluate your
February
Junior
 Develop course plans for this year  Review your high school
 As you look ahead to college,
November
Sophomore
March.
 Take AP exams, if appropriate.
 Plan your summer college visits.
 Take the SAT II tests, if
 Take the SAT II tests, if
recommended, in any subjects
you will not see again.
 Find a summer job, or take a
summer enrichment course.
recommended, in any subjects
you will not see again.
 Find a job to continue saving for
college, or take a summer
enrichment course.
 Admission decisions arrive
 Financial aid awards should arrive
soon.
 Revisit any colleges, if necessary.
 Apply to community colleges, if you
have not already done so.
 May 1, deadline to accept an
admission from a UC campus.
 Notify colleges of your plans
 Take AP exams, if appropriate.
 Be sure to accept your financial aid
award.
GRADUATION!
 If attending a 4 year college or
university in the fall, submit a final
official transcript to the campus
you will attend.
 Find a job in an effort to meet your
expected contribution to the cost
of college.
13
SAMPLE FOUR-YEAR ACADEMIC PLAN
SUBJECT AREA
9TH GRADE
10TH GRADE
11TH GRADE
12 GRADE
ENGLISH (40)
English (10)
English (10)
English (10)
English (10)
MATHEMATICS (20)
ALGEBRA or SECONDARY MATH I (10)
*Credit will be granted for Algebra taken in
7th/8th grade with a C or better.
Math (10)
Math (10)
Math (10)
SOCIAL SCIENCE (35)
World Geography /
World Religions (5)
World History (10)
US History (10)
US Government (5)
Economics (5)
SCIENCE (20)
Earth Science (10)
Biology (10)
PHYSICAL EDUCATION (20)
PE (10)
PE (10)
VISUAL & PERFORMING ART (10)
*Foreign Language may also fulfill
this requirement for graduation
Visual/Perf. Art Elective or
Foreign Language (10)
Elective (5)
Elective (10)
Elective (10)
Elective (10)
Elective (10)
Elective (10)
Elective (10)
(60)
(60)
(60)
PRACTICAL ART (5)
Practical Art Elective (5)
HEALTH (5)
Health (5)
ELECTIVES (65)
TOTAL CREDITS NEEDED FOR GRADUATION
(230)
(60)
In order to receive a diploma of graduation from Downey High School students must:
1. Pass a minimum of 230 units.
3. Meet the District Computer Literacy requirement.
2. Pass required core courses.
4. Pass the California State High School Exit Exam.
ACADEMIC PLANNING WORKSHEET
SUBJECT AREA
9TH GRADE
10TH GRADE
11TH GRADE
12 GRADE
ENGLISH (40)
MATHEMATICS (20)
ALGEBRA or
SECONDARY MATH I (10)
SOCIAL SCIENCE (35)
SCIENCE (20)
PHYSICAL EDUCATION (20)
VISUAL & PERFORMING ART(10)
PRACTICAL ART (5)
HEALTH (5)
ELECTIVES (65)
TOTAL CREDITS NEEDED FOR
GRADUATION (230)
14
THOMAS DOWNEY HIGH SCHOOL
CLASS DESIGNATIONS
The information below is designed to clarify
placement procedures in all core academic
classes (English, math, science, and social
science) for high school students.
CLASS DESIGNATIONS
The following class designations reflect the
level of academic rigor in core academic classes of English, math, science, and social science:
College
Preparatory-level
classes:
College Preparatory classes are designed for
students preparing for entrance into a two or
four-year college or university. These classes
meet the requirements for college or
university entrance. Placement in College
Prep classes are determined by teacher
recommendation and relevant academic
information.
Success Skills classes: These classes are
designed for students who are performing
below grade level and who need additional
time for skills development in order to have
the best chance of success graduating with a
high school diploma.
Advanced Placement (Pre-AP and AP) level classes: These are advanced classes
that are designed to provide advanced or
accelerated instruction for students wishing
to gain college credit while in high school.
College credit is determined by the results of
AP examinations. The Pre-AP designated
classes are freshman and sophomore classes
that prepare students to enroll in AP courses.
Students do not earn college credit in Pre-AP
classes. Placement in Pre-AP or AP classes is
determined by the course prerequisites and
teacher recommendation.
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
AGRICULTURE
AGRICULTURAL MECHANICS 1-2
Course # AGR00100 Grade Level: 9-10
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description:
Students will use a classroom and
laboratory-type situation to cover the principles and
applications of agricultural mechanics.
Work habits and
attitudes will be stressed with emphasis on careers in
agriculture. Areas of instruction will include: safety, tools,
measurement, drawing, woods, welding concrete, metal work/
sheet metal, electricity, rope, and plumbing. Recommended
Prerequisites: None
AGRICULTURAL MECHANICS 3-4
Course #: AGR00900 Grade Level: 10, 11
Duration: 1 Year
*MEETS CSU ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS ONLY
Course Description: Students will use a classroom and
laboratory-type situation to cover the principles, care of, and
maintenance of small gas and diesel engines. Work habits and
attitudes will be stressed with emphasis on careers in
agriculture. Areas of instruction will include: use of equipment
manuals, equipment maintenance, and types of engines, oxyacetylene welding, arc welding, measurement, drawing,
safety,
and
project
construction.
Recommended
Prerequisites: Agricultural Mechanics 1-2
AGRICULTURAL MECHANICS 5-6
Course #: AGR01000 Grade Level: 11, 12
Duration: 1 Year
*MEETS CSU ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS ONLY
Course Description: Students will use a classroom and
laboratory-type situation to cover the principles of surveying,
power hydraulics, equipment maintenance, oxy-acetylene
welding, arc welding, MIG and TIG welding.
Project
construction will emphasize project drawing, measurement
and cost analysis. Work habits and attitudes will be stressed
with emphasis on careers in agriculture.
Recommended Prerequisites: Agricultural Mechanics 3-4
INDIVIDUAL STUDIES FOR AGRICULTURE
Course #: AGR01200 Grade Level: 11-12
A Modesto City School
Duration: 2-4 Semesters
*MEETS CSU ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS ONLY
Course Description: Vocational Education in Agriculture is
organized instruction which prepares individuals for
employment in agriculture and may also prepare them for
advanced training, leading to an agricultural career requiring
education at a postsecondary level. This course is an
individualized program of study for junior and senior students
with definite career goals or interest. The course of study will
reflect the student’s areas of interest. Participation in FFA
leadership activities will reinforce the learning process of
these students. Recommended Prerequisites: None
INTEGRATED AGRICULTURE SCIENCE 1-2
COLLEGE PREPARATORY
* meets A-G college entrance requirements
Course # AGR01400 Grade Level: 9
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description:
Agriculture Education is organized
instruction which prepares individuals for employment in
agriculture and may also prepare them for advanced training,
leading to an agricultural career requiring education at a
postsecondary level. It is recommended that a student be
involved in a Supervised Occupational Program and in FFA
activities that deal with plants and/or animal science. This
course will emphasize the Modesto City Schools requirement
of Physical Science. (This course uses extensive laboratory
work to emphasize observation and hypothesis techniques.)
Recommended Prerequisites: None
INTEGRATED AGRICULTURE SCIENCE 3-4
COLLEGE PREPARATORY
* meets A-G college entrance requirements
Course # AGR01500 Grade Level: 10-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description:
Agriculture Education is organized
instruction which prepares individuals for employment in
agriculture and may also prepare them for advanced training,
leading to an agricultural career requiring education at a
postsecondary level. It is recommended that a student be
involved in a Supervised Occupational Program and in FFA
activities that deal with animals and/or plants.
Recommended Prerequisites: Integrated Agriculture Science
1-2 with a “C” or higher.
15
INTEGRATED AGRICULTURAL BIOLOGY
* meets A-G college entrance requirements
Course # AGR00401 Grade Level: 11-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: Ag Biology is a one year, laboratory
science course designed for the college-bound student with
career interests in agriculture. Using agriculture as the
learning vehicle, the course emphasizes the principles, central
concepts and interrelationships among the following topics:
the molecular and cellular aspects of life, the chemical and
structural basis of life, energetics of life, growth and
reproduction in plants and animals, evolution of modern plants
and animals, animal behavior, ecological relationships among
plants, animals, humans and the environment, nutrition in
animals, health and diseases in animals, and the similarities
between animals and humans. The course is centered around
an extensive laboratory component in order to connect the big
ideas of life science with agricultural applications, earth and
physical science principles, and other curricular areas,
including written and oral reporting skills. Recommended
Prerequisites: Integrated Ag Science 1-2, 3-4 or Biology
BUSINESS
BUSINESS LAW
Course # BUS06100 Grade Level: 10-12 (or permission of
instructor)
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: This course is designed to help the
student develop an awareness and understanding of legal
information used by the consumer in conducting everyday
activities.
Topics covered include contracts, warranties,
rights of both employers and employees, credit, and making
decisions regarding the outcome of actual court cases
involving both criminal and civil law.
Recommended
Prerequisites: None
COMPUTER LITERACY 1-2
* meets graduation requirement thru Class of 2016
Course #COM07401, COM07402
Grade Level: 9-12
Duration: Year/Semester
Course Description: A semester long course in which students
learn about computers; terminology, use, capabilities and
limitations; and use computer application software tools for
word processing, data base, spread sheet, presentation
software and internet access. Students learn how to use a
software package, are then asked to replicate a document,
modify a document, and create an original document. District
prepared supplements and recommended tests are used to
assist the teacher and students with the instructional portion
of the use of the software packages. Students completing the
course should be able to use a computer for completion of
tasks required by other instructors. Recommended
Prerequisites: None
VIRTUAL BUSINESS
Course # BUS05200 Recommended Grade Level: 11-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: A Virtual Business is a simulated business
that is set up and run by students to prepare them for working
in a real business environment. With the guidance of a teacher
(“consultant”) and real-world business partners, the students
determine the nature of their business, its products and
16
services, its management and structure, and engage in the
daily operations of running a business. Emphasis is placed on
using current business software, communications, and the
Internet for business transactions. This simulation takes the
teacher outside the traditional instructional paradigm and
places the students on the front lines of the business world.
Recommended Prerequisites: Computer 1-2 or Teacher
Recommendation
ENGLISH
PRE-ADVANCED PLACEMENT/GATE ENGLISH 1-2
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # ENG10000 Grade Level: 9
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: This pre-university course is designed for
highly motivated students performing at or above grade level
in language arts. The curriculum supports the California
Language Arts Content Standards and is geared for students
who plan to attend a four-year college or university
immediately after high school graduation.
This course
requires students to read extensively from District-approved
and advanced placement literature lists to meet or exceed
content area standards in writing, to work independently, and
to demonstrate higher-level critical thinking skills in their
written and oral work. The focus of the course is critical
analysis in preparation for the international AP English
Language and Literature Composition courses in the junior and
senior years. Recommended Prerequisites: Recommendation
of 8th grade English teacher and completion of summer
reading/writing assignments.
PRE-ADVANCED PLACEMENT/GATE ENGLISH 3-4
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course #ENG10700 Grade Level: 10
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: This pre-university course is designed for
highly motivated students performing at or above grade level
in language arts. The curriculum supports the California
Language Arts Content Standards and is geared for students
who plan to attend a four-year college or university
immediately after high school graduation.
This course
requires students to read extensively from District-approved
and advanced placement literature lists, to meet or exceed
content area standards in writing, to work independently, and
to demonstrate high –level critical thinking skills in their
written and oral work. The focus of the course is critical
analysis in preparation for the international A/P English
Language and Literature Composition courses in the junior and
senior years. Recommended Prerequisites: Pre-AP English 12 or CP1-2 with “C” or higher, teacher recommendation, and
completion of summer reading/writing assignments.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT ENGLISH LANGUAGE & COMPOSITION
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # ENG11400 Grade Level 11th
Duration : 1 year
Course Description: This is a college level course designed
for highly motivated students performing above grade level in
language arts as active, critical readers with sophisticated
writing skills. The curriculum supports the California Language
Arts Content standards and is geared for students who plan to
attend a four-year college or university immediately after high
THOMAS DOWNEY HIGH SCHOOL
school graduation. This course requires students to read
extensively from district-approved and advanced placement
literature lists, to meet or exceed content area standards in
writing, to work independently, and to demonstrate higherlevel critical thinking skills in their written and oral work. The
focus of the course is critical rhetorical analysis in preparation
for the international AP English Language and Composition
exam. Recommended Prerequisites: Pre-AP English 3-4 or
CP English 3-4 with “C” or higher, teacher recommendation,
and completion of summer reading/writing assignments.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT ENGLISH LITERATURE AND
COMPOSITION
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course #: ENG12200 Grade Level: 12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: This course is designed for highly
motivated students performing above grade level in language
arts. It is a college-level course that engages students in the
“careful reading and critical analysis of imaginative
literature.” This class will explore mature, adult-level,
thought-provoking works of high literary value which
encompass a variety of genres, time periods, and language
styles. All students are expected to “read deliberately and
thoroughly, taking time to understand a work’s complexity, to
absorb its richness of meaning, and to analyze how that
meaning is embodied in literary form. In short, students in an
Advanced Placement English Literature course should read
actively. The works taught require careful deliberative
reading, and the approach to analyzing and interpreting them
involves students in learning how to make careful observations
of textual detail, establish connections among their
observations, and draw from those connections a series of
inferences leading to an interpretive conclusion about the
work’s meaning and value.”
Quality writing is a must and “should be an integral part of an
Advanced Placement English Literature and Composition
course.” Writing assignments will “focus on the critical
analysis of literature and include expository, analytical, and
argumentative essays. Critical essays make up the bulk of
student writing.” The approaches to writing will vary, from
notebook response to in-depth reaction papers. Most
assignments will be relatively brief, but thorough. In essence,
the goal of this course is “to increase students’ ability to
explain clearly, cogently, even elegantly, what they
understand about literary works and why they interpret them
as they do. To that end, writing instruction will include
attention to developing and organizing ideas in clear,
coherent, and persuasive language.” Moreover, writing is a
shared experience as students work together to develop and
revise their critical-thinking skills. Students in this class are
expected to take the Advanced Placement examination.
(Language borrowed from AP Course Description, English, May 199899. The College Board.)
Recommended Prerequisites: AP English Language and
Composition or CP English 5-6 with a “C” or higher, teacher
recommendation, or a 3 or higher on the AP Language Test,
completion of summer reading/writing assignments.
Summer Project: Read 2-4 novels and complete related
assignments as directed by instructor.
EXPOSITORY READING AND WRITING COURSE
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # ENG16500 Grade Level: 12
Duration: 1 Year
A Modesto City School
Course Description: The goal of the Expository Reading and
Writing Course is to prepare college-bound seniors 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.
Modules also provide instruction in research methods and
documentation conventions. Students will be expected to
increase their awareness of the rhetorical strategies employed
by authors and to apply those strategies in their own writing.
They will read closely to examine the relationship between an
author’s argument or theme and his or her audience and
purpose; to analyze the impact of structural and rhetorical
strategies; and to examine the social, political, and
philosophical assumptions that underlie the text. By the end
of the course, students will be expected to use this process
independently when reading unfamiliar texts and writing in
response to them. Course texts include contemporary essays,
newspaper and magazine articles, editorials, reports,
biographies, memos, assorted public documents, and other
nonfiction texts. The course materials also include modules
on two full-length works (one novel and one work of
nonfiction). Written assignments and holistic scoring guides
conclude each unit.
COLLEGE PREPARATORY ENGLISH 1-2
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course #ENG10200 Grade Level: 9
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description:
This course is designed for highly
motivated students performing at or above grade level in
language arts. The curriculum of this course is geared for
students who plan to attend a four-year college or university
immediately after high school graduation.
This course
requires students to read extensively from District-approved
literature lists, to write research papers as well as other
compositions, to work independently, and to demonstrate
higher-level critical thinking skills in their written and oral
work. The course is a literature-based comprehensive English
course, built around twelve thematic or skills-based units, in
each of which are embedded critical reading, composition and
grammar instruction, listening and speaking skills, and
vocabulary development strategies. Students who perform
poorly in this course will have their placement reviewed.
Recommended Prerequisites: Recommendation of 8th grade
English teacher pending on-site high school assessment.
COLLEGE PREPARATORY ENGLISH 3-4
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # ENG10900 Grade Level: 10
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description:
This course is designed for highly
motivated students performing at or above grade level in
language arts.
This course requires students to read
extensively from District approved literature lists, to write
research papers as well as other compositions, to work
independently, and to demonstrate higher-level critical
thinking skills in their written and oral work. This course is a
literature-based comprehensive English course, built around
twelve thematic or skills-based units, in each of which are
embedded critical reading, composition and grammar
instruction, listening and speaking skills, and vocabulary
17
ENGLISH continued...
development strategies.
Recommended Prerequisites:
Recommendation of 9th grade English teacher, CST score of
basic or above.
COLLEGE PREPARATORY ENGLISH 5-6
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # ENG11600 Grade Level: 11th
Duration: 1 year
Course Description: This course is designed for the highly
motivated students performing at or above grade level in
language arts. The curriculum supports the California
Language Arts Content Standards and is geared for students
who plan to attend a four year college or university
immediately after high school graduation. This course requires
students to read extensively from district-approved literature
lists, to meet or exceed content are standards in writing to
work independently , and to demonstrate higher-level critical
thinking skills in their written and oral work. Recommended
Prerequisites:
Recommendation of 10th grade English
teacher, CST score of basic or above.
COLLEGE PREPARATORY ENGLISH 7-8
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # ENG12400 Grade Level: 12
Duration: One Year
Course Description: This course is designed for highly
motivated students performing at or above grade level in
language arts. The curriculum supports the California
Language Arts Content Standards and is geared for students
who plan to attend a four-year college or university
immediately after high school graduation. This course requires
students to read extensively from district-approved literature
lists, to meet or exceed content area standards in writing, to
work independently, and to demonstrate higher-level critical
thinking skills in their written and oral work. Recommended
Prerequisites: Recommendation of 11th grade English teacher,
CST score of basic or above.
SUCCESS SKILLS
Course # ELE62300 Grade Level: 9-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: This course is designed to help students
be successful in school by integrating Success Skills into the
curriculum. Major units include Tutorials, Time Management,
Writing Skills, Study Skills, Listening Skills, Textbook/Content
Area Reading Strategies, Test-taking Skills, Note-taking,
Memory Techniques, Choosing College & Careers, Life Skills,
and School Culture. Recommended Prerequisites: None
READ 180 AND READ 180 SUPPORT (2 HR BLOCK)
Course # ENG12700 & 12710 Grade Level: 9
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: The course is designed as a one-year
intervention with the goal of bringing students to grade level
or above in reading through direct instruction program
designed to improve word attack skills, increase
comprehension and fluency, and build vocabulary. Instruction
will also include strategies for reading and writing in the
content areas, note taking, and related study skills for
academic success. Recommended Prerequisites: This course
18
is required for students who are reading at least two grade
levels below 9th grade level, or who have scored below the
30th percentile in a standardized test of reading ability.
Teacher recommendation is also a factor in placing students in
this course.
nonfiction texts. The course materials also include modules
on two full-length works (one novel and one work of
nonfiction). Written assessments and holistic scoring guides
conclude each unit.
ACADEMIC LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT 9
ACADEMIC LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT 10
ACADEMIC LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT 11
Course # ENG13430 Grade Level: 9
Course # ENG14430 Grade Level: 10
Course # ENG15340 Grade Level: 11
Duration: 1 Year
Placement: Placement will be based on 1) years enrolled in
U.S. schools, 2) results from CST, CELDT, and 3) district
assessments.
Course Description: Objectives of this course are to further
develop effective writing skills as demonstrated in multiparagraph composition, to further develop advanced critical
reading skills and increase the development of oral
communication skills to gaining proficiency and language
acquisition. Special emphasis will include building academic
Tier 2 and 3 vocabulary words, word analysis, reading
comprehension, writing strategies and applications plus
developing their oral skills through speech.
Prerequisites:
English Language Learner not in need of accelerated
intervention.
FOREIGN LANGUAGE
AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE I
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # FOR26500 Grade Level: 9-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: This introductory course, open to all
students who wish to learn a manual, natural language is
intended to develop limited facility in each of the following
areas: reading, writing, listening, thinking, signing,
computing. Major emphasis is on the development of the
ability to sign fluently with accurate hand shape, placement,
palm orientation and movement as well as basic facial markers
and visual gestural communication skills, while fostering an
appreciation for American Sign Language and Deaf culture.
Recommended Prerequisites: None
AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE II
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # FOR26600 Grade Level 10-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: This course is designed for students who
have successfully completed ASL Level I. Students will develop
communication skills with emphasis on ability to sign fluently,
using accurate hand shape, placement, palm orientation,
movement, basic ASL grammar principles and facial markers.
Students will acquire knowledge and appreciation of American
Sign Language and Deaf Culture. Recommended
Prerequisites: ASL I or equivalent
THOMAS DOWNEY HIGH SCHOOL
FRENCH I
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # FOR20400 Grade Level: 9-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: This course is an entry level French
course. Students will acquire a basic understanding of culture
and through communication-based instruction they will
develop the ability to: greet and respond to greetings;
introduce and respond to introductions; engage in
conversations; express likes and dislikes; make requests;
obtain information; understand some ideas and familiar
details; begin to provide information. Students will develop
an understanding and appreciation of the culture.
Recommended Prerequisites: None
FRENCH II
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # FOR20500 Grade Level: 9-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: This course is designed for students who
have successfully completed French I. Students will expand
upon the knowledge gained in French I and will develop the
ability to: make requests; express their needs; understand
and express important ideas and some detail; describe and
compare; use and understand expressions indicating emotion.
Students will continue to gain understanding and appreciation
of the culture. Recommended Prerequisites: Successful
completion of French I. (Teacher recommendation or a grade
of C or better.)
FRENCH III
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # FOR20600 Grade Level 9 - 12
Duration: 1 year
Course Description: This course is designed for students who
have successfully completed French II. Students will expand
upon the knowledge gained in French II and will develop the
ability to: clarify and ask for and comprehend clarification;
express and understand opinions; narrate and understand
narration in the present, past, and future; identify, state, and
understand feelings and emotions. Students will increase their
understanding and appreciation of the culture. Recommended
Prerequisites: Successful completion of French II. (Teacher
recommendation or a grade of C or better.)
FRENCH IV
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # FOR20700 Grade Level 9 - 12
Duration: 1 year
Course Description: This course is designed for students who
have successfully completed French III. Students will develop
proficiency in the major communication skills and will acquire
knowledge and appreciation of the culture of the target
language. Recommended Prerequisites: French III
SPANISH I
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # FOR20000 Grade Level: 9-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: This course is an entry level Spanish
course. Students will acquire a basic understanding of culture
A Modesto City School
and through communication-based instruction they will
develop the ability to: greet and respond to greetings;
introduce and respond to introductions; engage in
conversations; express likes and dislikes; make requests;
obtain information; understand some ideas and familiar
details; begin to provide information. Students will develop
an understanding and appreciation of the culture.
Recommended Prerequisites: None
SPANISH II
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # FOR20100 Grade Level: 9-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: This course is designed for students who
have successfully completed Spanish I. Students will expand
upon the knowledge gained in Spanish I and will develop the
ability to: make requests; express their needs; understand
and express important ideas and some detail; describe and
compare; use and understand expressions indicating emotion.
Students will continue to gain understanding and appreciation
of the culture. Recommended Prerequisites: Successful
completion of Spanish I. (Teacher recommendation or a grade
of C or better.)
SPANISH III
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # FOR20200 Grade Level: 9-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: This course is designed for students who
have successfully completed Spanish II. Students will expand
upon the knowledge gained in Spanish II and will develop the
ability to: clarify and ask for and comprehend clarification;
express and understand opinions; narrate and understand
narration in the present, past, and future; identify, state, and
understand feelings and emotions. Students will increase their
understanding and appreciation of the culture. Recommended
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Spanish II. (Teacher
recommendation or a grade of C or better.)
SPANISH IV
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # FOR20300 Grade Level: 9-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: This course is designed for students who
have successfully completed Level III. Students will develop
excellence in the major communication skills and will acquire
knowledge and appreciation of the culture of the target
language. Recommended Prerequisites:
Successful
completion of Spanish III.
SPANISH FOR SPANISH SPEAKERS 3
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # FOR24500 Grade Level: 9-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: This is an entry level Spanish course for
native speakers of Spanish. The course is the first in a series of
three levels leading to the A.P. Spanish Language exam (Level
5). It addresses the language arts content standards of reading
and literary response and analysis, writing, writing
conventions, listening and speaking. It is designed to
strengthen communicative ability in Spanish in the
interpersonal, presentational and interpretative modes. Cross19
FOREIGN LANGUAGE continued...
cultural comparisons and cross-curricular connections are
integrated throughout the course. Recommended
Prerequisites: Good communicative skills in oral Spanish;
basic reading skills in English or Spanish.
SPANISH FOR SPANISH SPEAKERS 4
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # FOR24600 Grade Level: 9-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: This course is the second in a series of
three levels of Spanish for Spanish Speakers leading to the AP
Spanish Language exam (Level 5). It addresses the language
arts content standards of reading and literary response and
analysis, writing, writing conventions, listening and speaking.
It is designed to strengthen communicative ability in Spanish in
the interpersonal, presentational and interpretative modes.
Cross-cultural comparisons and cross-curricular connections
are integrated throughout the course. Recommended
Prerequisites: Completion of Spanish for Spanish Speakers 3
or teacher recommendation.
SPANISH FOR SPANISH SPEAKERS 5 (3RD YEAR)
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # FOR24710 Grade Level: 11-12, or permission of
instructor
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: This course will provide a standard of
Spanish literacy necessary for future university courses and
career paths. The course addresses the language arts content
standards of reading and literary response and analysis,
writing, writing conventions, listening and speaking. It is
designed to strengthen communicative ability in Spanish in the
interpersonal, presentational, and interpretative modes.
Cross-cultural comparisons and cross-curricular connections
are integrated throughout the course.
Recommended
Prerequisites: Completion of Spanish for Spanish Speakers 4
or teacher recommendation.
AP SPANISH LANGUAGE
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # FOR21800 Grade Level: 11-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: Advanced Placement Spanish is an
advanced Spanish course designed to prepare students to take
and pass the Advanced Placement Spanish language
examination.
This course covers the equivalent of a third
year college course in advanced Spanish writing and
conversation.
It encompasses aural/oral skills, reading
comprehension, grammar and composition. Recommended
Prerequisites: Spanish III with teacher recommendation, or
Spanish IV, or Pre-AP Spanish III.
AP SPANISH LITERATURE AND CULTURE
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # FOR24800 Grade Level: 11-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: AP Spanish Literature and Culture is the
second part of an intensive two-year course (initiated in
Spanish for Spanish Speakers VI/AP Spanish Language) designed
to prepare native Spanish speaking and other qualified
students to take and pass the Advanced Placement Spanish
20
Literature and Culture exam through the analysis and
appreciation of Spanish Literature and the historical and
cultural contexts in which the works were written. The
curriculum incorporates many of the elements of a collegelevel Spanish composition and literature program and covers
the authors and literary works included in the Advanced
Placement Spanish Literature examination. It will also discuss
historical and cultural factors that influenced these works.
Students are expected to engage with the literature in a
personal and analytical way, further develop critical thinking
skills and increase their mastery of the language. In contrast
to Spanish for Spanish Speakers VI/AP Spanish Language and
Culture and in preparation for the AP Literature exam, this
course will focus more strongly on literary analysis, writing
analytical essays and will include review of the entire
curriculum.
Recommended Prerequisites:
Spanish for
Spanish Speakers VI/AP Spanish Language teacher
recommendation.
HEALTH
HEALTH
* meets graduation requirement
Course # HEA60301/60302 Grade Level: 9
Duration: 1 Semester
Course Description: Health is a required course that includes
instruction in alcohol, tobacco, and drug education, family
life, AIDS, nutrition, first aid, disease, and mental and
emotional health. Recommended Prerequisites: None
MATHEMATICS
ADVANCED ALGEBRA
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # MAT36400 Grade Level: 9-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: Advanced Algebra is an intermediate
algebra course. Areas of emphasis are linear equations and
inequalities, matrices, quadratic equations, functions, and
series and sequences.
Recommended Prerequisites:
Geometry with a grade of “C” or higher.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT CALCULUS (AB)
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # MAT35700 Grade Level: 11-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: Advanced Placement Calculus is a full
year of work in calculus and related topics which is
comparable to a first semester course in a college or
university. Most of the class is devoted to topics in differential
and integral calculus. It is expected that students who take
this course will seek college credit by taking the AP Calculus
AB Test. Students should have thorough knowledge of college
preparatory mathematics including algebra, axiomatic
geometry, trigonometry, analytic geometry (rectangular and
polar coordinates, equations, and graphs, lines, and conics).
The typical student should have previously completed
successfully Algebra, Geometry, Advanced Algebra, and PreCalculus. Recommended Prerequisites: Pre-Calculus/Pre-AP
Pre-Calculus with a “C” or higher. *Course work of transfer
students will be evaluated for equivalency.
THOMAS DOWNEY HIGH SCHOOL
ADVANCED PLACEMENT CALCULUS (BC)
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # MAT39000 Grade Level: 12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: Advanced Placement Calculus course is a
full year of work in calculus and related topics which is
comparable to a second semester course in a college or
university. It is expected that students who take this course
will seek college credit by taking the AP Calculus BC test.
Topics covered in the course will include: Functions, Graphs,
and Limits, Derivatives, Integrals, and Polynomial
Approximations and Series. Prerequisite: AP Calculus (AB).
*Course work of transfer students will be evaluated for
equivalency.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT STATISTICS
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # MAT36000 Grade Level 11-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: AP Statistics is a course that includes
topics that prepare college bound students for mathematics in
both liberal arts majors and mathematics/engineering majors.
The course content includes descriptive statistics, probability,
probability distributions, estimates and sample sizes,
experimental designs, correlation and regression, and
statistical inference. Recommended Prerequisites: Advanced
Algebra with “C” or better. *Course work of transfer students
will be evaluated for equivalency.
FINANCIAL MATH
Course # MAT39310 Grade Level: 12th only
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: Financial Math is a course designed to
introduce students to the mathematics involved in daily life
and a basic look into finances involved with running a small
business. Personal finance units include bank accounts, credit,
and investment. Business applications include accounting,
marketing, inventory, and sales. Recommended
Prerequisites: 12th Grade only
FINITE MATH: COLLEGE ENTRANCE PREP MATH
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # MAT39900 Grade Level: 12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: This course will focus on higher level
math topics, such as matrices, linear programming, finance,
set theory, probability, statistics, game theory, and logic.
Recommended Prerequisites: Advanced Algebra, teacher
recommendation, conditionally exempt on EAP. *Course work
of transfer students will be evaluated for equivalency.
PRE-ADVANCED PLACEMENT GATE ADVANCED ALGEBRA
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # MAT36200 Grade Level: 9-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: Pre-AP/GATE Advanced Algebra is an
intermediate algebra course. Areas of emphasis are linear
equations and inequalities, matrices, quadratic equations,
functions, and series and sequences.
Recommended
Prerequisites: Pre-AP Geometry with a “C” or higher and
Algebra II Readiness Test 32 or higher.
A Modesto City School
PRE-ADVANCED PLACEMENT GATE PRE-CALCULUS
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # MAT35800 Grade Level: 10-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: Pre-Calculus is a College Preparatory
course for students who have successfully completed Advanced
Algebra. It prepares students for success in Calculus and higher
mathematics. Units of instruction include the graphing of
polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions,
trig functions and identities, vectors, polar equations and
limits.
Recommended Prerequisites:
Pre-AP Advanced
Algebra with “C” or higher.
PRE-CALCULUS
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # MAT35900 Grade Level: 10-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: Pre-Calculus is a College Preparatory
course for students who have successfully completed Advanced
Algebra. It prepares students for success in Calculus and higher
mathematics. Units of instruction include the graphing of
polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions,
trig functions and identities, vectors, polar equations and
limits. Recommended Prerequisites: Advanced Algebra with
“C” or higher.
PRE AP SECONDARY MATH I
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # MAT49111/49112 Recommended Grade Level: 9
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: For the high school Pre-AP Secondary
Math I course, instructional time should focus on six critical
areas: (1) extend understanding of numerical manipulation to
algebraic manipulation; (2) synthesize understanding of
functions; (3) deepen and extend understanding of linear
relationships; (4) apply linear models to data that exhibit a
linear trend; (5) establish criteria for congruence based on
rigid motions; and (6) apply the Pythagorean Theorem to the
coordinate plane. The scope of this course is limited to linear
and exponential expressions and equations as well as some
work with absolute value, step, and functions that are
piecewise-defined. Students will learn to think critically in a
mathematical way with an understanding that there are many
different ways to a solution and sometimes more than one
right answer in applied mathematics. The Mathematical
Practice Standards and Content Standards are connected in
instruction and prescribe that students experience
mathematics as a coherent, useful and logical subject that
makes use of their ability to make sense of problem situations.
Recommended Prerequisites: Successful completion of
Secondary Math I Honors Junior High and teacher
recommendation.
PRE AP SECONDARY MATH II
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # MAT49211/49212 Recommended Grade Level: 9-10
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: The focus of Pre AP Secondary Math II is
on quadratic expressions, equations, and functions; comparing
their characteristics and behavior to those of linear and
exponential relationships from Pre AP Secondary Math I as
organized into 6 critical areas, or units. The need for
extending the set of rational numbers arises and real and
21
MATHEMATICS continued...
complex numbers are introduced so that all quadratic
equations can be solved. The link between probability and
data is explored through conditional probability and counting
methods, including their use in making and evaluating
decisions. The study of similarity leads to an understanding of
right triangle trigonometry and connects to quadratics through
Pythagorean relationships. Finally Circles, with their quadratic
algebraic representations, round out the course. The
Mathematical Practice Standards apply throughout each course
and, together with the content standards, prescribe that
students experience mathematics as a coherent, useful, and
logical subject that makes use of their ability to make sense of
problem situations. The Standards for Mathematical Practice
complement the content standards so that students
increasingly engage with the subject matter as they grow in
mathematical maturity and expertise throughout the
elementary, middle, and high school years. Recommended
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Pre AP Secondary
Math I or Secondary Math 1 JH and teacher recommendation.
PRE AP SECONDARY MATH III
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # MAT49331/49332 Recommended Grade Level: 11
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: In the Pre AP Secondary Mathematics III
course students will integrate and apply the mathematics they
have learned from their earlier courses. This course includes
standards from the conceptual categories of Number and
quantity, Algebra, Functions, Geometry, and Statistics and
Probability. Standards that were limited in Secondary
Mathematics I and Secondary Mathematics II no longer have
those restrictions in Mathematics III. For the Pre-AP
Mathematics III course, instructional time should focus on four
critical areas: (1) apply methods from probability and statistics
to draw inferences and conclusions from data; (2) expand
understanding of functions to include polynomial, rational, and
radical functions; (3) expand right triangle trigonometry to
include general triangles; and (4) consolidate functions and
geometry to create models and solve contextual problems.
The Standards for Mathematical Practice complement the
content standards so that students increasingly engage with
the subject matter as they grow in mathematical maturity and
expertise throughout the elementary, middle, and high school
years. Recommended Prerequisites: Successful completion of
Pre AP Secondary Math II and teacher recommendation
SECONDARY MATH I
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # MAT49100 Recommended Grade Level: 9-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description:
For the high school Mathematics
Integrated I course, instructional time should focus on six
critical areas: (1) extend understanding of numerical
manipulation to algebraic manipulation; (2) synthesize
understanding of functions; (3) deepen and extend
understanding of linear relationships; (4) apply linear models
to data that exhibit a linear trend; (5) establish criteria for
congruence based on rigid motions; and (6) apply the
Pythagorean Theorem to the coordinate plane. The scope of
this course is limited to linear and exponential expressions and
equations as well as some work with absolute value, step, and
22
functions that are piecewise-defined. Students will learn to
think critically in a mathematical way with an understanding
that there are many different ways to a solution and
sometimes more than one right answer in applied
mathematics. The Mathematical Practice Standards and
Content Standards are connected in instruction and prescribe
that students experience mathematics as a coherent, useful
and logical subject that makes use of their ability to make
sense of problem situations. Recommended Prerequisites:
Successful completion of Math 8 and teacher recommendation.
SECONDARY MATH II
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # MAT49200 Recommended Grade Level: 10
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: The focus of the Secondary Math II
course is on quadratic expressions, equations, and functions;
comparing their characteristics and behavior to those of linear
and exponential relationships from Secondary Math I. This
course includes standards from the conceptual categories of
Number and Quantity, Algebra, Functions, Geometry, and
Statistics and Probability. For the Mathematics II course,
instructional time should focus on five critical areas: (1)
extend the laws of exponents to rational exponents; (2)
compare key characteristics of quadratic functions with those
of linear and exponential functions; (3) create and solve
equations and inequalities involving linear, exponential, and
quadratic expressions; (4) extend work with probability; and
(5) establish criteria for similarity of triangles based on
dilations and proportional reasoning. The Standards for
Mathematical Practice complement the content standards so
that students increasingly engage with the subject matter as
they grow in mathematical maturity and expertise throughout
the elementary, middle, and high school years. Recommended
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Secondary Math I and
teacher recommendation.
SECONDARY MATH III
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # MAT49300 Recommended Grade Level: 11-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: In the Secondary Mathematics III course
students will integrate and apply the mathematics they have
learned from their earlier courses. This course includes
standards from the conceptual categories of Number and
Quantity, Algebra, Functions, Geometry, and Statistics and
Probability. Standards that were limited in Secondary
Mathematics I and Secondary Mathematics II no longer have
those restrictions in Mathematics III. For the Mathematics III
course, instructional time should focus on four critical areas:
(1) apply methods from probability and statistics to draw
inferences and conclusions from data; (2) expand
understanding of functions to include polynomial, rational,
and radical functions; (3) expand right triangle trigonometry
to include general triangles; and (4) consolidate functions and
geometry to create models and solve contextual problems.
The Standards for Mathematical Practice complement the
content standards so that students increasingly engage with
the subject matter as they grow in mathematical maturity and
expertise throughout the elementary, middle, and high school
years. Recommended Prerequisites: Secondary Math II and
teacher recommendation.
THOMAS DOWNEY HIGH SCHOOL
MATH 180 COURSE II
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: No
Course # MAT95381/95382 Recommended Grade Level: 9
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: MATH 180 Course II is a math class
using a comprehensive system of curriculum, instruction, and
assessment, to equip struggling students with the knowledge,
reasoning, and confidence to be prepared for Secondary Math.
Math 180 Course II is built from a carefully sequenced and
paced progression of content. There are 9 blocks of
instruction featuring high-interest themes. The focused
content helps students make connections while learning to
think algebraically. Recommended Prerequisites: Students
placed in this course have scored below 700 on the Scholastic
Math Inventory (SMI) Quartile test.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
ADAPTED PE
Course # PE47101/PE47102 Grade Level: 9-12
Duration: 1 Quarter
Course Description:
This course offers the student the
opportunity to participate in organized physical activities.
This course studies the physical, emotional, intellectual, social
and health aspects of physical activities. Recommended
Prerequisites: IEP Team Approval
CARDIO FITNESS
Course # PE47301/PE47312 Grade Level: 9-12
Duration: 1 Quarter
Course Description:
An intermediate/advanced physical
education class that specializes in developing and
strengthening cardio fitness through activities ranging from
team sports to individual exercise.
Recommended Prerequisites: None
DANCE 1-2
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # PE45401/PE45402 Grade Level: 9-12
Duration: 2 Semesters
Course Description: Engagement in activities directed toward
the refinement and master of dance skill and vocabulary,
artistic perception, creative expression, historical and cultural
contest, aesthetic valuing, and the application and
performance of learned knowledge in composition and
technical mastery. Recommended Prerequisites: None
DANCE 3-4
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # PE45501/PE45502 Grade Level: 9-12
Duration: 2 Semesters
Course Description: Engagement in activities directed toward
the refinement and mastery of dance skill, vocabulary,
anatomy, artistic perception, creative expression, historical
and cultural context, aesthetic valuing, and the application
and performance of learned knowledge in composition and
technical mastery. Recommended Prerequisites: Dance 1-2,
Teacher approval.
A Modesto City School
ATHLETICS - (AFTER SCHOOL SPORTS PROGRAM)
Courses below; Grade Level: 9-12
Duration: 1 Quarter each
Course Description: This course offers the student the
opportunity to participate in organized athletic competition.
This course studies the physical, emotional, intellectual, social
and health aspects of athletic competition. Recommended
Prerequisites: None
Boys’ Sports Program:
Fall:

Varsity Football

Sophomore Football

Freshman Football

Water Polo

Varsity Soccer

Jr. Varsity Soccer

Cross Country
Winter:

Varsity Basketball

Sophomore Basketball

Freshman Basketball

Wrestling
Spring:

Varsity Baseball

Sophomore Baseball

Freshman Baseball

Track—Varsity & JV

Tennis

Swimming—Varsity & JV

Golf
Girls’ Sports Program:
Fall:

Golf

Varsity Water Polo

Varsity Volleyball

Frosh/Soph Volleyball

Tennis

Cross Country

Spiritleading
Winter:

Varsity Basketball

Frosh/Soph Basketball

Spiritleading
Spring:

Softball—Varsity & JV

Soccer—Varsity & JV

Swimming

Track & Field
DANCE PRODUCTION
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # PE45601/PE45602 Grade Level: 9-12
Duration: 2 Semesters
Course Description: Engagement in activities directed toward
the refinement and mastery of dance skill, artistic perception,
creative expression, historical and cultural context, aesthetic
valuing, and the application and performance of learned
knowledge in composition and technical mastery.
Recommended Prerequisites: Beginning Dance, Teacher
approval, audition
23
PHYSICAL EDUCATION, continued
GENERAL PE
Course # PE48001/PE48002 Grade Level: 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th
Duration: 1 Quarter
Course Description: The purpose of the General Physical
Education & Advanced Physical Education Class is to provide
the student with a variety of activities and experiences. The
class is designed to meet the needs of the student and allow
the student to develop a sense of well-being, self-esteem,
cooperation, and confidence throughout the school year. The
aim is to enable the student to become physically educated,
fit, able to enjoy a variety of physical activities and
committed to lifetime health and physical well-being. It is an
ongoing process of articulated and sequential development of
skills, talents, attitudes, and behaviors. Recommended
Prerequisites: None
TENNIS, BEGINNING
Course # PE46101/PE46102 Grade Level: 9-12
Duration: 1 Quarter
Course Description: This course is designed to introduce and
teach the 5 basic strokes of tennis, rules and strategies for
playing the game of tennis. Recommended Prerequisites:
None
WEIGHT TRAINING, BEGINNING
Course # PE45301/PE45302 Grade Level: 10-12
Duration: 1 Quarter
Course Description: This course is designed to teach the
student the basic skills and benefits of weight training.
Students will understand the way the cardio-muscular system
works; muscle system works, and how physical conditioning
takes place in the body. Terminology will be covered and
student will gain a knowledge of proper and safe use of
equipment. Recommended Prerequisites: None
WEIGHT TRAINING, ADVANCED
Course # PE47301/PE47302 Grade Level: 10-12
Duration: 1 Quarter
Course Description: This is a self-directed weight training
program. Students using the knowledge gained from basic
weight class and teacher direction will develop their own
workout programs for lifting five days-a-week. The dangers of
steroids usage to the human body will be included. Guidance
by the teacher will be given to each student toward setting
and accomplishing individual goals. Recommended
Prerequisites: Complete Beginning Weight Training
PRACTICAL ARTS
CONSTRUCTION/WOODWORKING TECHNOLOGY 1-2
Course # IND30700 Grade Level: 9-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: This is an introductory course to the
construction industry that will allow students to learn how to
use portable and stationary woodworking equipment in a
proper and safe manner. The student will learn about wood
properties, fastenings, finishes, and the proper use of hand
24
tools. Instructional training in areas such as plans and
blueprints, ordering material, work layout, woodworking
machines and related occupational information will be
presented. This is a beginning course in woodworking.
Recommended Prerequisites: None
CONSTRUCTION/WOODWORKING TECHNOLOGY 3-4
Course # IND30800 Grade Level: 10-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: This is an advanced course in
construction/woodworking technology. Additional instruction
will be provided in each of the beginning Construction/
Woodworking Technology 1-2 areas as well as advanced
training in hand tools, machinery, equipment, and
woodworking joinery. This course also introduces cabinet
construction, as well as drawer and door construction.
Recommended Prerequisites: Construction/Woodworking 1-2
FOODS AND NUTRITION 1-2
Course # HOM25200 Grade Level: 9-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: Students will be given guidelines for
good nutrition, food safety, and sanitation. They will learn
basic skills associated with reading and applying recipes,
including proper measuring and preparation techniques.
Students will also learn basic American regional foods as well
as ethnic foods from around the world.
Recommended
Prerequisites: None
FOODS AND NUTRITION 3-4
Course # HOM25300 Grade Level: 10-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: This course will give students in-depth,
hands-on experiences in nutrition, sanitation, safe food
handling, and meal planning. Students will apply advance
food preparation techniques and meal planning. Students will
compare food preparation techniques, meal etiquette, and
food traditions of different cultures. They will learn effective
leadership skills and learn how to organize and structure work
individually and in teams. In addition, students will also
identify pre-professional associations and careers in the food
and nutrition industries. Recommended Prerequisites: Foods
and Nutrition 1-2
GRAPHIC DESIGN 1-2 (see Visual & Performing Arts)
GRAPHIC COMMUNICATION 3-4
Course # IND33300 Grade Level: 10-12
Duration: 2 Semesters
Course
Description:
Course Description: Graphic
Communication 3-4 provides intermediate training in the
offset printing process and in the following areas of the
printing industry: job planning and layout, type composition
and
reproduction,
desktop/electronic
publishing,
proofreading, camera-ready copy preparation, line
photography, halftone photography, darkroom techniques,
plate preparation, offset inks, paper, press fundamentals, and
shop safety. Course content is structured through lecturelaboratory experiences as related to individual assigned
projects. The contents of this course can be linked to the
School to Career programs and can be used to develop career
pathways for students. Recommended Prerequisites: Graphic
Communication 1-2 Modesto Junior College 2 + 2 Articulation
THOMAS DOWNEY HIGH SCHOOL
GRAPHIC COMMUNICATION 5-6
Course # IND33500 Grade Level: 11-12
Duration: 2 Semesters
Course Description: Graphic Communication 5-6 provides
advanced training in the following areas of the Printing
Industry: orientation and laboratory safety, art and copy,
image generation/composition, photo conversion and
continuous tone photography, image carriers and transfer,
binding and finishing, economics and management, and career
selections. Course content is structured through lecturelaboratory experiences as related to individual assigned
projects. The contents of this course can be linked to the
School to Career programs and can be used to develop career
pathways for students. Recommended Prerequisites: Graphic
Communication 3-4
Modesto Junior College 2 + 2 Articulation
GRAPHIC COMMUNICATION 7-8
Course # IND33700 Grade Level: 12
Duration: 2 Semesters
Course Description: Graphic Communication 7-8 provides job
entry-level training in the areas of art and copy, desktop/
electronic publishing, image generation/composition, photoconversion and continuous tone photography, image carriers
and transfer, binding and finishing, and economics and
management. Course content is structured through lecturelaboratory-field trip experiences as related to individual and
group assigned projects. The contents of this course can be
linked to the School to Career programs and can be used to
develop career pathways for students. Recommended
Prerequisites: Graphic Communication 5-6
Modesto Junior College 2 + 2 Articulation
DESKTOP PUBLISHING/PHOTO JOURNALISM (The Realm)
Course # ENG15300 Recommended Grade Level: 10-12
Duration: 1 Year (May be repeated two additional years for credit)
Course Description: This course is designed to allow the
students to learn about the related fields of computer
technology and photography. This knowledge of design
techniques and photography will expose the students to the
components in producing newsletters, yearbooks, posters,
programs, or brochures. The students will 1) gain a basic
understanding of the principles of desktop publishing, 2)
recognize how graphic design contributes to the
communication process, 3) be able to design and produce a
high school yearbook incorporating desktop and photographic
techniques, 4) be prepared for entry-level work at a print
show, desktop publishing company, newspaper production
department or other company utilizing desktop publishing for
internal or external publications, 5) be able to take on
assignments and responsibilities that will allow them to meet
deadlines for publication, 6) receive the skills necessary to
produce photographs suitable for publication. Recommended
Prerequisites: None
JOURNALISM 3-4 (YEARBOOK)
Course # ENG27000 Grade Level: 10-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: Students registered in this course will
produce the school yearbook while gaining journalism
experience and some experience in the allied fields of photojournalism, art, pictorial essay construction merchandising,
bookkeeping, and editing. Recommended Prerequisites:
Permission of instructor.
A Modesto City School
SPEECH
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # ENG14500, Grade Level: 9-12 Ability Level: GATE-X-Y
Duration: 1 year
Course Description: This course provides an introduction to
the fundamentals of public speaking and debating; special
attention is given to the development of poise and self
confidence in front of an audience.
INFANT CARE 1-2
Course # HOM26400 Grade Level: 9-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: Students will learn and apply basic
knowledge and practical skills in the areas of child
development, care and guidance by observing and working
with infants and toddlers on a daily basis. Recommended
Prerequisites: None
PARENTING EDUCATION 1-2
Course # HOM26300 Grade Level: 9-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: Students learn and apply theoretical
knowledge and practical skills in the development, care and
guidance of children. Recommended Prerequisites: Cal Safe
State Program Required
AVID 9, 10, 11
Course # ELE87300, ELE87400, ELE87900 Grade Level 9-11
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: This course is an elective class for
students who are college bound. While concurrently enrolled
in a college prep course of study, students learn strategies to
enhance success. To ensure success in college prep course
work, students work individually, as well as in tutor led
collaborative groups.
Test-taking strategies, and self
awareness are stressed. In addition, the course includes
college motivational activities. Recommended Prerequisites:
Teacher recommendation.
AVID SENIOR SEMINAR
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # ELE74900 Grade Level: 12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: The AVID Senior Seminar is the
culmination of a student’s years in the AVID program. The
course involves substantial critical reading and writing,
preparation for external exams such as Advanced Placement
and International Baccalaureate, and weekly Socratic
seminars. Students enrolled in the Senior Seminar are required
to complete weekly timed writings, and analytical discourses
in subjects across the curriculum. In addition, students are
required to make oral presentations to the class on topics
related to college entrance, contemporary issues, and social
concerns. Recommended Prerequisites: Previous enrollment
in AVID lower-level courses for three years. Enrollment in at
least one honors, Advanced Placement, or International
Baccalaureate course.
25
SCIENCE
ADVANCED PLACEMENT BIOLOGY
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # SCI54600 Grade Level: 11-12
Duration: 1 year
Course Description: The AP Biology course is designed to be
the equivalent of a college introductory biology course usually
taken by biology majors during their first year. A. P. Biology
should include those topics regularly covered in a college
biology course for majors. The two main goals of A. P. Biology
are to help students develop a conceptual framework for
modern biology and to help students gain an appreciation of
science as a process. A. P. Biology is a course intended for
students who are able to do college-level work while still in
high school. In order to get college credit, students must
complete the course work and pass the College Board
Examination. The College Board Examination is very rigorous.
In order to best prepare students for the exam the course is
intense and fast paced. College level work is expected of
students and grading will reflect that expectation.
Recommended Prerequisites: CP Biology or Pre-AP Biology or
CP Chemistry or Pre-AP Chemistry with “C” or higher and
teacher recommendation. *Course work of transfer students
will be evaluated for equivalency.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT CHEMISTRY
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # SCI54700 Grade Level 11-12
Duration: 1 year
Course Description: The AP Chemistry course is designed to
be the equivalent of the general chemistry course usually
taken during the first college year. For some students, this
course enables them to undertake , as freshmen, second-year
work in the chemistry sequence at their institution or to
register in courses in other fields where general chemistry is a
prerequisite. For other students, the AP Chemistry course
fulfills the laboratory science requirement and frees time for
other courses. Recommended Prerequisites: CP Biology or
Pre-AP Biology or CP Chemistry or Pre-AP Chemistry with “C”
or higher and teacher recommendation.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT PHYSICS
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # SCI54800 Grade Level: 11-12
Duration: 1 year
Course Description: This is a college-level introductory
physics course that prepares the student to take the Advanced
Placement Physics examination. The topics covered include
mechanics, kinetic theory, thermo dynamics, electricity and
magnetism, and waves and optics. Recommended
Prerequisites: CP Biology or Pre-AP Biology or CP Chemistry or
Pre-AP Chemistry and Pre-Calculus with “C” or better and
teacher recommendation. *Course work of transfer students
will be evaluated for equivalency.
COLLEGE PREPARATORY CHEMISTRY
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # SCI53300 Grade Level: 11
Duration: 1 year
Course Description: This is a course designed for the college
bound student. This course utilizes mathematics to solve
chemical problems in organic and inorganic chemistry.
26
Students should have a strong background in Algebra. Many
laboratory experiments are done using chemicals to prepare
students for college laboratory work. Recommended
Prerequisites: CP Biology and Algebra with “C” or higher in
both. *Course work of transfer students will be evaluated for
equivalency.
COLLEGE PREPARATORY BIOLOGY
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # SCI53600 Grade Level: 10-11
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: This laboratory science course is
designed for the college-bound student as an introductory
course in biological science. This course is a standards-based
course that addresses biology from a molecular perspective. It
involves extensive laboratory work as well as the extensive use
of the scientific method through the collection of data and
observation. Recommended Prerequisites: CP Earth Science
with a “C” or higher and completion of or concurrent
enrollment in Algebra.
COLLEGE PREPARATORY EARTH SCIENCE
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # SCI52700 Grade Level: 9
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: This is a course that combines earth
science and physics. This course covers physical laws and
properties of the earth. Students will do extensive lab work
that involves making observations and constructing hypotheses
from data collected. Labs and activities are integral to the
course. Recommended Prerequisites: Pre-Algebra and/or
“C” or higher in Grade 8 physical science.
HUMAN ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOLGY
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # SCI55100 Grade Level: 11-12
Duration: 1 year
Course Description: This laboratory science course will cover
the structure and function of the human body. Students will
learn about all of the organ systems and how they work
together. This is an introductory level course designed for
students pursing a career in the medical or life science field.
It is a 2 + 2 course in which students will earn college credit at
MJC if they earn a “B” or better in the class. Recommended
Prerequisites: CP Biology with a “C” or higher and teacher
recommendation. *Course work of transfer students will be
evaluated for equivalency.
PHYSICS
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # SCI55200 Grade Level: 11-12
Duration: 1 year
Course Description: This is a standards based course in high
school physics. This course covers physical laws and physical
properties. The student should be a strong reader as well as be
enrolled in Algebra or higher. The course involves extensive
laboratory work that is directed by the use of the scientific
method. Recommended Prerequisites: Earth Science, Biology,
Chemistry *Course work of transfer students will be evaluated
for equivalency.
THOMAS DOWNEY HIGH SCHOOL
PRE-ADVANCED PLACEMENT CHEMISTRY
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # SCI53100 Grade Level 10-11
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: This is a course designed for the Gifted
and Talented student. This course utilizes mathematics
through logarithms to solve chemical problems in organic and
inorganic chemistry. Students should have a strong background
in Algebra and Trigonometry. Many laboratory experiments are
done using chemicals to prepare students for college
laboratory work.
Recommended Prerequisites: Pre AP
Physical Science and Algebra with “C” or higher OR Pre-AP
Biology with teacher recommendation.
PRE-ADVANCED PLACEMENT BIOLOGY
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # SCI54200 Grade Level : 10-11
Duration: 1 year
Course Description:
This laboratory science course is
designed for the Gifted and Talented student as an
introductory course in biological science. This course is a
standards based course that addresses biology from a
molecular perspective. It involves extensive laboratory work as
well as the extensive use of the scientific method through the
collection of data and observation. Students will do a research
project that involves individual problem-solving and
organizational skills. Recommended Prerequisites: Pre-AP
Physical Science and Algebra with “C” or better.
PRE-ADVANCED PLACEMENT PHYSICS
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # SCI52500 Grade Level: 9
Duration: 1 year
Course Description: This is a standards based introductory
course in high school physics. This course covers physical laws
and physical properties. This will provide students with the
knowledge to continue further study in science. The student
should be a strong reader as well as be enrolled in Algebra or
higher. The course involves extensive laboratory work that is
directed by the use of the scientific method. Recommended
Prerequisites: Junior High School H/G Physical Science and
Algebra with “C” or higher in both. *Course work of transfer
students will be evaluated for equivalency.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT EUROPEAN HISTORY
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # SOC56900 Grade Level: 10
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: This course is designed to increase the
student’s understanding of European history from 1450 to the
present with the ultimate goal of having each student pass the
AP examination in May. It is expected that all students
enrolled in this course take the AP exam. An AP style exam
will be given to those students choosing not to take the AP
exam. All sections of the AP exam reflect college level
programs in terms of subject matter and approach. Thus,
students in class will need to demonstrate a knowledge of
basic chronology and of major events and trends from
approximately 1450 (the High Renaissance) to the present.
Students are expected to demonstrate the ability to analyze
historical evidence and express that understanding in writing.
Students are also expected to demonstrate an understanding
of some of the principal themes in European history, and the
ability to express that understanding in writing.
Recommended Prerequisites: Teacher recommendation.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT UNITED STATES HISTORY
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # SOC57400 Grade Level: 11
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: The Advanced Placement Program in
United States History is designed to provide students with the
analytic skills and factual knowledge necessary to deal
critically with the problems and materials in united States
History. The program prepares students for intermediate and
advanced college courses by making demands upon them
equivalent to those made by full-year introductory college
courses. Students should learn to assess historical materials—
their relevance to given
interpretive problem, their
reliability, and their importance—and to weigh the evidence
and interpretations presented in historical scholarship. An
advanced Placement United States History course should thus
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. This course
is designed for students who are capable and willing to
complete an intensive course survey of United States History
from the colonial period to modern times in preparation for
the Advanced Placement college exam.
Recommended
Prerequisites: AP European History or CP World History and
teacher recommendation.
SOCIAL SCIENCE
ADVANCED PLACEMENT PSYCHOLOGY
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # SOC54610 Grade Level: 11-12
Duration: 2 Semesters
Course Description: The AP Psychology course is designed to
introduce students to the systematic and scientific study of
the behavior and mental processes of human beings and other
animals. Students are exposed to the psychological facts,
principles, theories and phenomena associated with each of
the major subfields within psychology. They also learn ethics
and research methods used by psychologists in their applied
science and practice. Recommended Prerequisites: Teacher
recommendation.
A Modesto City School
ADVANCED PLACEMENT UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT AND
POLITICS
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # SOC57900 Grade Level: 12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: Advanced Placement United States
Government and Politics offers students an opportunity to
participate in an analytical study of government and politics.
The course is a study of state, district, and AP concepts and
analysis of specific governmental issues and examples. While
many approaches to the course are possible, through any
approach students should become acquainted with the variety
of theoretical perspectives, and explanations for various
behaviors and outcomes.
U. S. Government and Politics requires that students learn
facts and concepts, and understand typical political processes.
Students will be required to interpret and apply political
27
SOCIAL SCIENCE, continued
relationships between people and institutions and among
different institutions. In addition to studying government in
grade twelve, students master fundamental economic
concepts, compare economic systems, and study the principles
of micro and macro economics. Through the application of
graphs, statistics and equations, students further their
understanding of economic institutions.
Advanced Placement classes require extra time on the
student’s part for reading the materials, completion of a large
number of short and long written assignments, and research.
The Advanced Placement course does not include a specific
unit on state and local government; however, many of the
topics and concepts will be presented in a general study of the
pattern of intergovernmental relationships. Recommended
Prerequisites: AP U. S. History or CP U. S. History and teacher
recommendation. *Course work of transfer students will be
evaluated for equivalency.
Summer Project: Students should expect to complete a
summer project in preparation for their later studies. The
scope and type of the project shall be at the discretion of the
individual instructor.
COLLEGE PREPARATORY UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT AND
ECONOMICS
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # SOC58200 Grade Level: 12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: Students in grade twelve pursue a deeper
understanding of the institution of American government.
They compare systems of government in the world today and
analyze the life and changing interpretations of the
Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the current state of
legislative, executive and judiciary branches of the
government. In addition to studying government in grade
twelve, students master fundamental economic concepts,
compare economic systems, and study the principles of micro
and macro economics. Through the application of graphs,
statistics and equations, students further their understanding
of economic institutions. This course is intended for students
who read at or above grade level, can work independently,
and successfully complete a formal research project. Students
enrolled in this course plan to attend a four year college or
university. Recommended Prerequisites: CP U. S. History
with a grade of “C” or higher.
*Course work of transfer
students will be evaluated for equivalency.
COLLEGE PREPARATORY UNITED STATES HISTORY
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # SOC57600 Grade Level: 11
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: Students in grade eleven study the
major turning points in American History during the 20th
century. Following a review of the nation’s beginnings and
the impact of the Enlightenment on U.S. democratic ideals,
students study the development of the nation culturally,
economically, and politically. They 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 result
of a defined set of political principles that are not always
basic to citizens of other countries. This course is intended
for students who read at or above grade level, can work
independently and successfully complete a formal research
project. Students enrolled in this course plan to attend a four
28
year college or university. Recommended Prerequisites:
Completion of CP World History with a grade of “C” or higher.
COLLEGE PREPARATORY WORLD HISTORY
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # SOC5710 Grade Level: 10
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description:
Students in grade ten study major
turning points that shaped the modern world, from the late
18th century through the present, including the cause and
course of the two world wars. They 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. They extrapolate from the
American experience that democratic ideals are often
achieved at a high price, remain vulnerable are not practiced
everywhere in the world. Students develop an understanding
of current world issues and relate them to their historical,
geographic, political, economic, and cultural contexts.
Students consider multiple accounts of events in order to
understand international relations from a variety of
perspectives. This course is intended for students who read at
or above grade level, can work independently, and
successfully complete a formal research project.
Recommended Prerequisites: Completion of CP English 1-2
with a grade of “C” or higher and concurrent enrollment in CP
English 3-4 or Pre-AP English 3-4; meets District CST Incentive
Plan.
WORLD GEOGRAPHY AND WORLD RELIGIONS
Course # SOC56701 Grade Level: 9
Duration: 1 Semester
Course Description: Students in the ninth grade will examine
the five themes of geography and understand the impact that
geography has had on human development and events.
Students will also examine the geographic location, cultural
characteristics, historical development, major beliefs and
impact on world historic events of the six major world
religions – Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism,
and Sikhism.
This class is required for graduation.
Recommended Prerequisites: None
VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS
ART 1-2
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # ART02500 Grade Level: 9-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description:
Learn what the elements of art are.
Learn how to manipulate these elements creatively in
drawings, paintings, designs and sculptures. Discover where
artists acquire ideas and how to communicate these ideas
clearly to viewers by using the principles of art. Study
significant historical art periods and some of the contributing
artists. Become aware of the influence of many cultures on
our creative impressions. Learn about career opportunities in
the Visual Arts. Develop skills in evaluation and aesthetic
judgment.
A variety of studio projects using numerous
techniques and media are required. This is a prerequisite
course for all other art classes. This course meets the fine
arts entrance requirements for the University of California and
the California State University. Prerequisites: None
THOMAS DOWNEY HIGH SCHOOL
DRAWING AND PAINTING
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # ART02900 Grade Level 10-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: This course is an advanced art course
with emphasis on continued development and emphasis of
Drawing and Painting course study.
Recommended
Prerequisites:
Art 1-2
AP, STUDIO ART
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course: ART04100 Grade Level 11-12
Duration: 2 Semesters, can be repeated for credit
Course Description: The AP Studio Art program provides an
opportunity for the visually gifted to excel and receive
recognition on a national scale. It also makes it possible for
highly motivated high school students to do college level
work . AP Studio Art is not based on a written exam; instead
the student is asked to submit a portfolio of work. Portfolios
are evaluated by specially trained high school and university
art instructors. The portfolio is graded separately and then
combined into the final composite score. The sections include:
#1 Breadth which is a variety of experiences in using the
formal, technical, and expressive means available to an artist.
#2 Concentration is twelve pieces of artwork based on a
theme. #3 Quality is five actual works of art demonstrating
excellence in a work of art. Slides of art and actual artwork
will comprise the portfolio to be submitted. Recommended
Prerequisites: Art1-2, Pre-AP or IB Art, consent of instructor
HISTORY AND ART OF FLORAL DESIGN
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course #: ART69010 Grade Level: 10-12
Duration: 2 Semesters
Course Description: History and Art of Floral Design provides
an introduction to the artistic and creative approach to Floral
Design. This includes aesthetic valuing through a series of
projects in various media including tempera, paint, flowers,
glass and tile. Students will be introduced to the elements
and principles of visual art such as line, shape, form, color,
balance, and an emphasis using floral based projects to
explore the connections, relations and application of Floral
Design. Assignments will be based on abstract two and three
dimensional designs, color theory, and an analytical critique of
various Floral Art work using design vocabulary while
developing technical skills in Floral Art.
Recommended
Prerequisites: None
FLORAL DESIGN II
Course #: ART05500 Grade Level: 10-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: In Floriculture/Design, the students will
explore the floriculture industry on a more technical and
advanced level. Students will expand upon their creative
expression, aesthetic valuing, perceptions, and historical and
cultural context. The art elements and principles of design will
serve as a foundation for each unit covered. Recommended
Prerequisites: History and Art of Floral Design
GRAPHIC DESIGN 1-2
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # IND29010 Grade Level: 9-12
Duration: 1 Year
A Modesto City School
Course Description: The Graphic Design course will explore
the ever changing trends in the global field of design and its
application in print (two dimensional), product and
environmental (three dimensional). Students will understand
the impact of the arts and design throughout history and in
various cultures. This course is UC approved and is eligible for
“f” credit. Students will learn methods and theory such as
elements and principles of design to enhance their artistic
vision and style. Through two and three dimensional design
projects students will develop problem solving skills, artistic
perception, critical thinking, and self reflection. Art critiques
and presentations will provide opportunities for students to
grow as artists. Learning and using current versions of the
industry standard software Adobe PhotoShop, Adobe
Illustrator, Adobe InDesign, and Adobe Acrobat will provide
students with a professional environment and the associated
responsibilities as graphic designers. Graphic Design 1-2 also
includes the history and developments of major printing
process; application layout and design as it pertains to a
variety of substrates; environmental considerations and
restrictions; as well as the legal restrictions as they relate to
the field of Graphic Design and intellectual property as a
whole. Recommended Prerequisites: None
PHOTOGRAPHY 1-2
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # ART03600 Grade Level: 10-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description:
Learn aesthetics by examining and
discussing photographs taken by professionals, classmates, and
the student’s own works, during class critiques. Learn
techniques (how to take, develop, print, and finish
photographs) through handling of cameras, films, lenses,
exposures, filters, electronic flash, chemicals, formulas and
enlargers. Learn composition by concentrating on selective
focus, leading lines, depth, center of interest, value and
contrast. Experience a series of assignments including candid
photography, action photos, existing light pictures,
portraiture, multiple exposures, and close-up photography.
Students are not required to own a camera; 35mm cameras
can be checked out for classroom use. Recommended
Prerequisites: None.
VIDEO ARTS AND PRODUCTION 1-2
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # IND03800 Grade Level: 9 -12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: This course is designed to give students
the opportunity to use modern technology to express
themselves creatively by writing and directing their own short
films.
Students will learn every aspect of filmmaking
including screenwriting, directing talent, still and motion
picture acquisition, professional production and post
production software and techniques, linear and non-linear
editing, video camera techniques, television production,
studio based and field (location) video production, digital
storytelling, digital animation, and special effects. Students
will also gain career preparation skills by working in teams on
projects. This course also gives the student the opportunity
to acquire the technical knowledge and requisite skills needed
for successful entry level employment in the motion picture
industry, other media related occupations, and/or advanced
post secondary studies. The contents of this course can be
linked to the School to Career programs and can be used to
develop career pathways for students. Prerequisites: None
29
VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS, cont...
3D COMPUTER GRAPHICS AND ANIMATION
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Pending
Course # IND04311, # IND04312 Grade Level: 9-12
Duration: 2 semesters
Course Description: In this course, students will learn the
skills and techniques of professionals to create realistic 3D
graphics and animation for still photography, marketing, video
games, video production, and more using the latest in cuttingedge industry standard software including Autodesk 3D Studio
Max, Autodesk Mudbox, and Adobe Photoshop. Students will
learn about 3D modeling and animation, materials and
mapping, dynamic texturing and sculpting, real-time bump
mapping, graphic design, digital photography, particle systems
and special fx, lighting and cameras, rendering, character
modeling and animation, and facial modeling and animation.
Students will demonstrate and apply what they learn through a
series of creative and engaging projects. Students will also
learn how to apply math and science to graphics and
animation in a simulated environment. The course gives
students the opportunity to acquire greater technical
knowledge and requisite skills needed for successful entry
level employment as a: 3D Animator, 3D Modeler, 3D Lighting
Specialist, 3D Texture Arties, Game Level Designer, Special
Effects Artist, Video post Production Artist, Architect, or
Engineer. The contents of this course can also be linked to
the School-to-Career programs and can be used to develop
career pathways for students. Recommended Prerequisites:
None
DRAMA 1-2
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # ENG14800 Grade Level: 9-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: This course is designed to introduce
students to the art of acting and to develop a foundation in
the theater arts. The students will study acting through
exercises,
improvisation, movement, scene study and
analysis, character development and production. Students will
learn about the structure of drama styles of acting and the
history of theater. Through the reading of text books and a
variety of dramatic works, writing scripts, design
performance, and lectures students will have a basic
understanding of the history of theater and the acting
profession.
This course meets the Fine Arts entrance
requirement for the University of California and California
State University. Recommended Prerequisites: None
DRAMA 3-4
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # ENG15100 Grade Level: 10-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description:
This course is designed for students
who have successfully completed Drama 1-2 (or equivalent)
and wish to further their work in theater. The stress will be
on performance, through scene work, monologues, audition
preparation, improvisation, and competitive events. Directing
will also be emphasized.
Recommended Prerequisites:
Drama 1-2, or teacher recommendation.
30
DRAMA 5-6
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # ENG16600 Grade Level: 10-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: This course is designed for students who
have successfully completed Drama 3-4 (or equivalent) and
wish to further their work in theater. The stress will be on
performance, through scene work, monologues, audition
preparation, improvisation, and competitive events. Directing
will also be emphasized. Recommended Prerequisites: Drama
3-4, or teacher recommendation
DRAMA 7-8
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # ENG17800 Grade Level: 10-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: This course is designed for students who
have successfully completed Drama 5-6 (or equivalent) and
wish to further their work in theater. The stress will be on
performance, through scene work, monologues, audition
preparation, improvisation, and research. Directing will also
be emphasized. Recommended Prerequisites: Drama 5-6, or
teacher recommendation
THEATRE STAGECRAFT PRACTICUM 3-8
Course # ENG15200 Grade Level: 10-12
Duration: 1 Semester
Course Description: This course is designed as a semester
practicum in theater arts for those who are interested in
further demonstrating elements of performance and
production skills. The emphasis is on preparation and
execution of the play for public performance. Students with
backgrounds in all aspects of theatre will receive experiences
in public performances. Recommended Prerequisites:
Theatre Stagecraft 1-2 or Drama 1-2, or teacher
recommendation.
ADVANCED TREBLE CLEF (Women’s) CHOIR “Knightengales”
* meets A-G college entrance requirements
Course #: MUS41300 Grade Level: 9-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: This choir emphasizes advanced
ensemble singing for sopranos and altos. Flexibility in musical
style and vocal technique is most important. This choir
performs frequently throughout the year. Recommended
Prerequisites: Must be able to sing in the soprano or alto
voice; teacher permission to enroll.
BASS CLEF (Men’s) CHOIR “KNIGHTS CHOIR”
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course #: MUS41400 Grade Level: 9-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: This choir is open to students grades 9-12
who like to sing. No experience is necessary. The class
includes rehearsal and performance of unison through fourpart music for tenor and bass voices. Recommended
Prerequisites: Must be able to sing in the tenor or bass voice.
THOMAS DOWNEY HIGH SCHOOL
CHOIR 1-8
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # MUS41000 Grade Level: 9-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: This course is a vocal music class for
mixed voice production, music theory, music appreciation, and
its practical application in rehearsal and performance of
choral literature. From this basic vocal music course, various
smaller ensembles are formed through audition.
Recommended Prerequisites: None.
CONCERT CHOIR “MADRIGALS”
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # MUS41100 Grade Level: 9-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: This course is designed to give vocal
students the unique experience of working on various areas of
vocal literature. The group will be chosen by audition.
Recommended Prerequisites: Permission of instructor
INTERMEDIATE TREBLE CLEF (Women’s) CHOIR “Gloriana”
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course #: MUS41200 Grade Level: 9-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: This class is for beginning and
intermediate singers, grades 9-12, and is open to sopranos and
altos. The class will cover unison through three-part harmony
and basic musicianship, offering a variety of musical styles
from classics through pops. The choir performs at concerts and
festivals. Treble Clef members may audition for Concert Choir,
Advanced Treble Clef Choir, and Chamber Choir after this
introductory choir experience. Recommended Prerequisites:
Must be able to sing in the soprano or alto voice.
BAND 1-8 Course # MUS40300
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
BAND 1-8 (PE) #MUS42801 / BAND 1-8 (MARCHING) #MUS42901
Grade Level: 9-12
Duration: 1 Year
Eligible for Physical Education Credits: 2.5 units (1 QTR) per year
Course Description: Marching Band includes the development
of marching and music techniques. Symphonic Band reviews
fundamentals, performs outstanding musical selections of
intermediate/advanced levels, and offers advanced technique
on a chosen instrument. Certain co-curricular school activities
will be required. Some of the activities include fall football
games and competitions, winter and spring concerts and
festivals.
Recommended Prerequisites:
Permission of
instructor; student must meet academic/participation
eligibility requirements first quarter.
COLOR GUARD 1-8
Course # MUS40700 Grade Level: 9-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: This course is an auxiliary visual unit to
the Marching Band. In the winter and spring, the class will
perform and compete as a separate unit. Flags, rifles, and
other visual props will be utilized. Dance performance will be
a large part of the class. Certain co-curricular activities will
be required. Recommended Prerequisites: Meet academic/
participation eligibility requirements during quarters in which
Physical Education credit is earned.
A Modesto City School
GUITAR 1-2, 3-4
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # MUS40011 Grade Level: 9-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: This course is open to students who
demonstrate an interest in learning to play the acoustical
guitar for self-enjoyment and as an aide in accompanying
themselves either in individual or group singing. The course
will include basic chords used on the guitar, tuning the
instrument, basic music theory as related to guitar, melodic
playing, barre chords, and tablature. Prerequisites: None
JAZZ BAND 1-8
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # MUS40500 Grade Level: 9-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: This year-length course is open to all
grade levels by audition only. It is designated to teach young
musicians to play in varied jazz idioms. It places an emphasis
on improvisation, as well as reading printed music.
Recommended Prerequisites:
Enrollment in Band 1-8 or
permission of instructor and audition.
ORCHESTRA 1-8
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
Course # MUS40800 Grade Level 9-12
Duration : 1 year
Course Description: This course is orchestral (ensemble)
training at an advanced level. The course includes drill on
fundamentals, advanced orchestra literature, sight-reading,
and rehearsal to improve general playing technique.
Outstanding orchestra literature of advanced grade will be
performed. The orchestra performs at concerts and festivals.
Recommended Prerequisites: Recommendation of instructor.
awareness are stressed. In addition, the course includes
college motivational activities. Recommended Prerequisites:
Teacher recommendation.
OTHER ELECTIVES
AVID 9, 10, 11 AND SENIOR SEMINAR (SEE PRACTICAL ARTS)
AVID TUTOR
Course # ELE62500 Grade Level: 11-12
Duration: 1 Year
Course Description: This course is designed for students to
assist AVID teachers at either the high school or junior high
school in working with AVID students in tutorials. To become
an AVID tutor, interested students must have good study skills,
a 2.5 or higher GPA, and the desire to help others to be
successful in a challenging environment. Recommended
Prerequisites: The student must be enrolled in Advanced
Algebra or above and be in CP or AP English.
CAREER EXPLORATION PAL: PEER ASSISTED LEARNING
PROGRAM
Course # ELE63700 Grade Level 10-12
Duration: 1 semester
31
OTHER ELECTIVES, continued
Course Description: This course is designed for students who
have an interest in working with special education students to
assist them in obtaining the highest quality of high school
experience possible. Prior to working with assigned students,
PALS will complete a one-day training on behavior
management, medical awareness, interpretation of I.E.P.
goals and objectives and record keeping.
PALS will attend classes with their assigned students, help
them find their way around campus, increase their
socialization with regular education students, and/or
participate in their community-based instruction programs.
Students may repeat the course for a total of 20 units in
combination with School Services. Prerequisites: Students
must submit an application and be screened by a teacher or
psychologist.
DRIVER EDUCATION
Course # ELE60101/ELE60102
Duration: 1 Quarter (held 8th period only)
Grade Level: Students on track for graduation and who are at
least 15 1/2 years of age at the time of course completion.
Course Description: Driver Education provides the student
with a knowledge of the Vehicle Code and other laws relating
to the operation of automobiles and responsibilities and
consequences that go with the privilege of driving. This
course acquaints students with safety rules and laws regarding
cars, motorcycles, and bicycles. The student will learn about
auto maintenance, consumerism, insurance, driving
techniques, and safety.
Recommended Prerequisites:
Students must have earned sufficient credits to be on-line for
graduation. Credits required: Freshman year: 1st semester:
30; 2nd semester: 60. Sophomore year, 1st semester: 90; 2nd
semester: 120. Junior year, 1st semester: 150; 2nd semester:
175. Senior year, 1st semester: 205; 2nd semester: 230.
SCHOOL SERVICE
Course # ELE87101/87102 Grade Level 11-12
Duration: 1 quarter
Course Description: Students who enroll in school service
may be provided the opportunity to meet with the public, file,
collate, duplicate and perform other clerical tasks. (This
course may be repeated for a maximum of 20 units.)
Recommended Prerequisites: None
TEACHING ASSISTANT
Course # ELE63501/63502 Grade Level 11-12
Duration: 1 semester
Course Description: This course is designed for students with
demonstrated competence in a subject area and who desire to
act as a tutor or instructional aide in a classroom setting.
Students will be assigned based on need and specific requests
from teachers. Students will be expected to prepare for
tutorial sessions and be willing to work with both individual
students and small groups. (Students may repeat the course
for a total of 20 units in combination with School Services).
Recommended Prerequisites: The student must demonstrate
high performance in the course to be tutored and must have at
least a 2.5 grade point average in the prior semester with no
F’s or U’s.
WORK EXPERIENCE EDUCATION
Course # WEX61100, 61500, 61600, 61700, 61800, 61900
Grade Level: 11-12
Duration: 2 to 8 Quarters
Course Description:
Students learn the academic skills
needed for career exploration, job search, job retention, and
consumerism. Work Experience Education is an educational
program which enables a student to participate in a planned
instructional program consisting of learning objectives
acquired at a job site and in the classroom. Recommended
Prerequisites: Must have paid employment.
ROP
School-to-Career Education
11th & 12th Grade Only
REGIONAL OCCUPATIONAL PROGRAMS (ROP)
Regional Occupational Programs (ROP) training courses are
offered in several areas including Business, Consumer/Home
Economics, Health Services and Industrial Technology. ROP
enables high school students and adults to develop marketable
occupational skills, abilities, attitudes, and work habits in
order to upgrade skills or obtain a job. The ROP reinforces
basic academic skills —-reading, writing, computation, verbal
communication, problem solving, and critical thinking. All
course studies are work-related and reflect the most current
developments in business and industry.
Students who
successfully complete a ROP course are prepared for entrylevel employment, advanced training and/or enrollment in a
community college, university, or technical school. Whether a
student plans to work full time, or part time and continue in
school, a ROP course teaches the skills to get and keep a
worthwhile job.
What about high school credit? Students who successfully
complete ROP are awarded credits applicable to graduation by
the school for each semester of ROP completed. Students are
eligible for 5 units of credit for each hour of instruction per
semester
How important is attendance? ALL STUDENTS are required
and expected to maintain a satisfactory attendance record.
High school students must be aware that truancies and
tardies will be handled according to Modesto City School
District policies.
ALL STUDENTS enrolled in ROP are
expected to adhere to the Modesto City School District
Student Conduct Code. Discipline problems will be handled
according to district policies.
What if class is canceled? Occasionally, an ROP class meeting
must be canceled. On these occasions, high school ROP
students must report to the home school Attendance Office.
32
THOMAS DOWNEY HIGH SCHOOL
Teachers will notify high school students in advance of
transportation cancellations, holidays, etc.
Transportation Provided for High School Students
Information concerning any transportation for high school
students, being provided to/from ROP courses is sent to high
school students prior to starting class in the fall. If entering
ROP mid-year, check with site Counseling Office for current
RO P
t r an s po rt at i on
sch edu le
or
ca l l
576 4096. Transportation is not provided to training sites with
the exception of local hospital areas.
Assessment Services and Classroom Assistance — ROP
students with barriers to successful completion of training
(i.e., physical/mental disabilities, limited English
proficiency, personal difficulties) are eligible for vocational
assessment services and extra assistance in the
classroom. ROP instructors or counselors should make
referrals to the Vocational Evaluation Center, c/o School-toCareer Education Office, 576-4024.
What about finals?
ROP instructors schedule a
comprehensive final examination/demonstration of skills,
abilities, and work habits according to the final examination
schedule of the district. Final examinations are required in
all ROP courses.
What about job placement assistance? ROP instructors
help all students to prepare resumes and to learn job-search
techniques. Upon satisfactory course completion, all ROP
students are provided Certificates of Proficiency.
Community Classroom and Cooperative Vocational Ed
Many ROP courses provide students opportunities to acquire
occupational skills through non-paid practical experience at
an actual business or industry site. After basic classroom
training, many students are placed at worksites throughout
the community and are trained by skilled employees.
Individualized plans for training are used among the
student, the employer, and the instructor. Students must
attend scheduled formal classroom instruction each week in
addition to their community classroom or cooperative
vocational education work station assignment.
Work
permits are required of all students ( under the age of 18)
in cooperative paid vocational education.
Our Partnerships — Curriculum, equipment and materials
for ROP courses are updated regularly with guidance from
industry-based advisory committees composed of local
business persons from specific occupational areas.
How do you benefit? Students receive college credit for
course work completed in high school. Students receive
advanced placement at Modesto Junior College/Columbia
College or Delta College skipping introductory college
courses.
AGRICULTURE
STRUCTURAL AG WELDING
Location: Thomas Downey High School
Description: This course covers electric, MIG, TIG, and oxyacetylene welding. The proper adjustment and use of
equipment will be practiced. Strong emphasis is placed on
the instruction and participation of project design, project
construction, and cost of materials. Participation in the
Future Farmers of America (FFA) will reinforce skill
development. Prerequisites: Ag Mechanics
A Modesto City School
HISTORY & ART OF FLORAL DESIGN ROP
Meets UC and CSU Entrance Requirements: Yes
* Meets Grad Requirements: Practical Arts/Visual &
Performing Arts
Location: Thomas Downey High School
Description: The History and Art of Floral Design provides an
introduction to artistic and creative perception including
aesthetic valuing through a series of projects in various media
including tempera, pencil, flowers, tile, and a variety of
papers. Students are also introduced to the elements and
principles of visual art design such as line, shape/form, color,
balance, and emphasis using a series of floral-based projects
to explore the connections, relations, and application to visual
arts design. Students will research and study floral trends to
understand and develop an appreciation for floral design
within historical and cultural, formal and casual, ceremonial
and traditional, including an understanding that floral designs
are affected by society, culture, history, politics, and
economic influence. Various assignments based on abstract
two and three dimensional designs, historical culture and
theory, color theory, and analytical critiques of various floral
art works using design vocabulary in conjunction with
development of technical skills in floral art will serve as a
foundation for more complex works such as multi-part floral
designs and creative expression through wedding
consultations.
ADVANCED FLORICULTURE ROP
* Meets Grad Requirements: Practical Arts/Visual &
Performing Arts
Location: Thomas Downey High School
Description: The advanced floral design class is designed to
give the student advanced design techniques including
wedding, sympathy and high-style floral design. This includes
everlasting flowers, oriental style of design, contemporary
design and techniques, and harvest and distribution. This
class also goes into greater detail of operating a retail flower
shop and covers careers and continuing education.
Recommended Prerequisites: History and Art of Floral
Design.
BUSINESS
COMPUTER PROGRAMMING I, II
Location: Modesto High School
Description: This course is offered as the first course in
computer programming. It is intended to train students in the
basic skills needed to operate a networked computer system
and to write programs using visual basic and htm The course
also introduces internet access, computer graphics, and web
page design. Qualified graduates of this course should be at
entry level for a number of jobs in the programming field, web
page design, and computer graphics. An advanced section is
available. Prerequisites: None recommended
MEDICAL OFFICE OCCUPATIONS 1-2, 3-4
Location: Thomas Downey High School
Description: This course will provide you with an opportunity
to learn about the many different careers in the Medical
Office Occupations field, and a solid start on your way to the
career of your choice. The introduction to Medical Office
Occupations course will provide you with the necessary
knowledge and skills to enter the field of medical
business. Medical Admissions Clerk training is included within
the introductory course. After completion of classroom work,
33
students will be placed in a hospital or medical office for
on-the-job experience. Recommended Prerequisites:
Keyboarding, and/or ROP Office Occupations, Hospital/
Health Occupations, or consent of instructor. Mature
juniors or seniors and parental consent.
LAUNCH YOUR OWN BUSINESS
Location: Enochs High School
Description: This course is tailored for future business
owners while preparing all students for the workforce of
tomorrow. Students will take creative ideas for products
and services and determine how to recognize opportunities
for business. During this course, students will look at
entrepreneurial trends, evaluate where to start or buy a
business, and assess global opportunities. Students learn to
research and plan the venture including marketing
strategies, sales force management, legal issues, developing
and maintaining human resources. Students will prepare a
competitive business plan and complete the course with an
introduction of successful business operation. Students may
also participate in cooperative vocational education,
(jobsite training).
Additionally, students have the
opportunity to participate in the vocational student
organization, DECA, an association of marketing students.
Prerequisites: None
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Location: Enochs High School
Description: This newly updated course provides students
with employable skills that are transferable to any career
direction.
Students learn personal techniques and
strategies
for
employment
within
our
local
community. Once students establish a skills foundation they
are placed in an entry level position at a business within our
community for practical application. This course teaches
professional communication, ethical business practices,
confidence in personal decisions, problem solving, flexibility
and organization of personal marketing tools for
employment search.
This course allows students the
opportunity to participate in the vocational student
organization, DECA, an association of marketing students.
Prerequisites: None
RETAIL SALES & MARKETING
Location: Enochs High School
Description: Students will learn skills related to retail
sales/marketing in the areas of visual marketing, sales
clerk, cashier/checker, grocery courtesy clerk, catalog/
credit clerk, and receiving. Students will train in various
training stations in the community. An effort will be made
to provide on-the-job training over and above that received
by regular employees. Classroom work will include the
competencies needed to be successful in the retail industry
and will be individualized as much as possible. Training
stations must be consistent in their effort to treat students
as trainees rather than regular employees. Students have
the opportunity to participate in the vocational student
organization, DECA, an association of marketing students.
Recommended Prerequisites: Retail Sales, Sales Clerk
Training, or permission of instructor and clean record.
RETAIL SUPERVISOR
Location: Enochs High School
Description: The students will learn advanced skills related
to retail marketing in the areas of display, sales, check out,
inventory, receiving, cashier, and other areas. They will
work in various stations of a local store and will rotate
34
through work stations to obtain a range of experiences in
marketing. There will also be in-store classroom work which
will cover various sales techniques, use of the cash register,
making proper change, store security, customer relations, and
receiving/checking methods. Students will meet in a
classroom and work in stores located throughout the
community including Vintage Faire Mall. Students have the
opportunity to participate in the vocational student
organization, DECA, an association of marketing students.
Recommended Prerequisites: Retail Sales/Merchandising,
Fashion Merchandising, Sales Clerk Training, or approval of
instructor.
FASHION MERCHANDISING AND DESIGN
Location: Gregori High School
Description: Students study careers applicable to the apparel
and accessories industry. The areas of instruction include
fashion buying, sales techniques, advertising, wardrobing,
fashion trend analysis, design, visual marketing, and interior
design. Students explore careers in fashion marketing and
management through in-class and lab activities. The course
offers community classroom and cooperative vocational
education as an option to students.
The course may also
include fashion show production as a culmination to the year's
study. Students have the opportunity to participate in the
vocational student organization, DECA, an association of
marketing students. Recommended Prerequisites: None
ADVANCED FASHION & HOME MERCHANDISING & DESIGN
Location: Gregori High School
Credits: 10-20 (2 hour block required) this is a 2+2 course
articulated with FASMR 254. Description: Students expand
on previously acquired skills in the fashion industry while
learning new skills. Students will understand the fashion
industry through the knowledge of business communications
relations, job seeking skills, customer service, professional
selling, fashion and interior design, visual merchandising/
display, merchandising fashion, management skills, marketing
math, distribution, careers in the industry, field trip and
participation in community classroom/cooperative education.
Students will have the opportunity to participate in the
vocational student organization, DECA, an association of
marketing students. Recommended Prerequisites: Fashion
Merchandising/Design (ROP) or Introduction to Fashion and
Home Merchandising/Design or approval of instructor.
CONSUMER/HOME ECONOMICS
CULINARY ARTS I
Location: Thomas Downey High School
Description: Students are prepared for entry-level
occupations as assistant cooks, bakers, assistant pantry
workers, assistant line cooks, counter person, cafeteria
workers, food servers, cashiers and/or institutional dish-up
persons. A major emphasis is on service, sanitation, care and
maintenance of equipment. Prerequisites: Negative TB test.
CULINARY ARTS II
Location: Thomas Downey High School
Description:
More advanced training in same areas as
Culinary Arts I; continue to be trained for entry-level
occupations as assistant cooks, bakers, assistant pantry
workers, assistant line cooks, counter person, cafeteria
workers, food servers, cashiers and/or institutional dish-up
THOMAS DOWNEY HIGH SCHOOL
persons. A major emphasis is on service, sanitation, care
and maintenance of equipment. Prerequisites: Culinary
Arts I
CULINARY ARTS III
Location: Thomas Downey High School
Description: Students receive instruction in preparation of
specialty dishes that require greater skills and time than
food prepared in Culinary Arts I and II.
Included is
instruction in advanced meat cutting and cookery and
sauces. Students prepare stocks, sauces and various types
of soups. Also included are learning activities that involve
menu planning, buying, the storage of food, portion control
and restaurant accounting. Prerequisites: Culinary Arts II
CULINARY ARTS CAREER CO-OP ROP (2 HOUR)
Location: Thomas Downey High School
Description: Students receive advance/paid training as
cashiers/checkers. Students also receive advanced training
related to commercial foods in the areas of assistant food
service/clerk, assistant chef, storeroom clerk, window/
counter clerk, pastry chef, pantry chef, school lunch cook,
banquet chef, food buyer and meat cutter. Students train
in various stations in the Culinary Arts kitchen as well as
local area restaurants. Prerequisites: Culinary Arts I or II
or III.
COSMETOLOGY
***SENIORS ONLY
Location: Local Cosmetology School.
Description: Students must complete 1600 clock hours of
technical instruction and practical operations to qualify to
take the State Cosmetology License Examination. Training
includes chemistry, anatomy, physiology, hair cutting,
styling, make up techniques, facials and manicuring.
Prerequisites: Must PASS entrance test at ROP cosmetology
site.
HEALTH SERVICES
HOSPITAL/HEALTH SERVICE OCCUPATIONS
Location: Davis High School
Description: Students explore a variety of medical/health
care careers as related to their interests, aptitudes, and
abilities. Students study basic medical practices, anatomy,
physiology, chemistry, as well as receive exposure to
medical occupations at community job sites in various
departments of hospitals including emergency rooms,
pediatrics, geriatrics, obstetrics, etc. Students must still
attend scheduled classroom meetings in addition to their
training stations. Students must demonstrate hands-on
nursing skills before being placed at a training station.
Students must complete urine drug screening prior to
placement at a training station. Recommended
Prerequisites: Biology preferred.
HOSPITAL & HEALTH ANCILLARY SERVICE OCCUPATIONS
Location: Davis High School
Description: Students explore a variety of medical/health
care careers as related to their interests, aptitudes, and
abilities. Students study basic medical practices, anatomy,
physiology, chemistry, as well as receive exposure to
medical occupations at community job sites in various nonnursing departments of hospitals including pharmacy, x-ray,
physical therapy, veterinary, etc. Students must still attend
A Modesto City School
scheduled classroom meetings in addition to their training
stations. Students must complete urine drug screening prior
to placement at a training station.
Recommended
Prerequisites: Biology preferred.
NURSING ASSISTANT PRECERTIFICATION PROGRAM
Location: Davis High School
*** SENIORS ONLY
Description: This is a two semester course. The first 12
weeks are spent in basic nurses training in the classroom.
After completing 100 hours of hands-on training in a
convalescent hospital, students will receive training in acute
care clinical setting. Students meet theoretical and practical
requirements for state-issued certificate; Nurse Assistant will
provide students with a strong foundation for a career in
nursing. This course will prepare students for entry-level
placement in nursing or in home care. State certification for
Nursing Assistant and Home Health Aide will enable students
to work in long-term facilities, acute hospitals or through
private nursing agencies. Students must demonstrate handson nursing skills before being placed at a training station.
Recommended Prerequisites: Science, and Hospital/Health
Service Occupations (ROP) or Ancillary Health Service
Occupations. Seniors only.
CRIMINAL JUSTICE ***SENIORS ONLY
Location: Davis High School
Description: Students enrolled in Criminal Justice obtain
entry-level skills for police and security-related
occupations.
Students are exposed to; careers in law
enforcement; federal, state, and local justice systems, and
specified California laws. Included in this course are mock
trials and actual experiences in criminology labs, penal
institutions, law enforcement training facilities, and with law
enforcement personnel including lawyers, probation officers,
police officers, judges, etc. Recommended Prerequisites:
C average or better, Seniors have priority
INTRODUCTION TO FIRE PROTECTION ***SENIORS ONLY
Location: Davis High School
Description: Students will be provided with an overview of
fire protection and career opportunities enabling them to
acquire entry-level knowledge along with some job shadowing
experience. Students learn the history of fire protection, fire
losses, public and private fire protection services, fire
protection functions, systems and equipment, along with
emergency incident management and operations. Students
must be able to provide their own transportation.
Recommended Requisites: Chemistry
INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY
GRAPHIC COMMUNICATION LABORATORY (1 HR)
Location: Thomas Downey High School
Description: Students will learn to manipulate the technology
and software to produce commercial quality layouts which
could be used for traditional print production or publication
on the world-wide web.
Students will also develop
marketable skills in major areas of production.
Recommended Prerequisites: None
VIDEO AND MEDIA PRODUCTION ROP (1 HR )
Location: Thomas Downey High School
Description:
Video and Media Production ROP gives the
student the opportunity to acquire the technical knowledge
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and requisite skills needed for successful entry level
employment in media related occupations and/or advanced
post-secondary studies. It provides training in still and motion
picture acquisition, non-linear editing, presentation graphics
and systems (electronic & print), sound and lighting design,
digital animation, special effects and titling, multimedia
workflows, as well as studio based and field (location) video
production. Course content is structured through lecturelaboratory experiences as it relates to individual and group
projects. Each student will complete a portfolio of his/her
work. Required Prerequisites: Successful completion of Art 1
-2, GRC 1-2, Photography, Video Arts and Production, or an
equivalent course with a “C” or higher grade, or teacher
approval.
ELECTRICAL TECHNOLOGY
Location: Thomas Downey High Construction Site
Description: This class is designed to give the student entrylevel skills for employment as a residential
electrician. Subjects covered include electrical fundamentals,
residential wiring for new construction, electrical service
installation, troubleshooting, and an instruction to electrical/
commercial electrical.
Recommended Prerequisites:
Electronics 1-2 and course in Algebra or Math I. Academic
deficiencies will be addressed during the course.
CONSTRUCTION TECHNOLOGY 1-2
Location: Thomas Downey High Construction Site
Description: This course is designed to provide in-depth,
hands-on experience in all major facets of the construction
trades. This course covers safety; use of hand, small power,
and power tools; measurement; print reading; estimating;
planning and design; construction math; construction
materials; finishes and coating; and a wide variety of
analytical and construction skills needed to build a
house. Students will have attained the skills to be job ready
when they complete the course.
Prerequisites: Construction/Woodwork Tech 1-2
CONSTRUCTION TECHNOLOGY 3-4
Location: Thomas Downey High Construction Site
Description: This is a continuation of the Construction 1-2
class, and provides the student an opportunity to act as a
"supervisor" since many of the skills needed to construct a
building have already been mastered. After completion of this
class, the student will have "apprenticeship" skills or will be
job ready. Therefore, all construction skills will have been
covered, and future employment will solely be determined by
the student's skill level attained and the desire to work.
Prerequisites: Construction Technology 1-2
CABINET CONSTRUCTION 1 ROP
Location: Modesto High School
Course Description: This course is designed to give students
job entry level skills for the cabinet making trade. The course
is structured in segments designed flexibly enough to serve
students with limited background in woodworking, and
students with considerable training and experience. The builtin flexibility allows students to advance at their own rate,
thus achieving maximum personal development. In addition to
general areas such as shop safety, hand tools, power
machinery, wood joints, and finishing techniques, the
curriculum focuses strongly on personal development, problem
solving, design, basic drafting techniques, basic plan reading,
and attitudinal skills. The Cabinet Construction I course
prepares students either for entry into the trade upon
graduation from high school or for more advanced training.
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THOMAS DOWNEY HIGH SCHOOL