9th Grade Course Description Guide
9th Grade Course Description Guide
Language Arts
Language Arts 9 (1.0 credit) 60801000
The ninth grade language arts course connects reading instruction with writing for multiple purposes. The course continues intensive practice and study of informational and literary reading and writing. Students read extensively from a variety of sources, and draft, revise, and edit their own writing. Critical reading and analytical skill development will be emphasized, as well as essay structure and language awareness. You will be encouraged to listen and to share with others and explore both your own and others’ ideas at appropriate intervals.
Language Arts 9 Honors (1.0 credit) 60803000
Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation and sufficient test scores
This is an advanced ninth grade course which offers students the opportunity to read and write functional, informational, and literary texts with emphasis placed on expository writing and critical analysis in preparation for advanced academic programs. This course has greater depth and breadth than is found in the Language Arts 9 course and requires more work and more time from the student. This advanced class explores a variety of writers, both of narrative and expository texts. While studying literature and non-fiction, you will improve your writing, oral, interpretive, observational, and reading skills.
Reading II (1.0 credit) 60222000 (This course is a support class and counts only as elective credit.)
This course enhances critical reading skills by focusing on reading comprehension strategies, fluency, vocabulary building and word recognition. Where appropriate some phonics will be included. Various forms of expository writing will also be a significant component. This course is designed as a learning foundation for graduation from high school.
Mathematics
Secondary Mathematics I (1.0 credit) 61212000
The fundamental purpose of Secondary Math I is to formalize and extend the mathematics that students learned in the middle grades. The critical areas, organized into units, deepen and extend understanding of linear relationships, in part by contrasting them with exponential phenomena, and in part by applying linear models to data that exhibit a linear trend. Secondary Math I uses properties and theorems involving congruent figures to deepen and extend understanding of geometric knowledge from prior grades. The final unit in the course ties together the algebraic and geometric ideas studied. 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.
Secondary Mathematics I Honors (1.0 credit) 61212200
Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation and sufficient test scores
The fundamental purpose of Secondary Math I Honors is to formalize and extend the mathematics that students learned in the middle grades and will also compact the concepts to include part of Secondary Mathematics II. The critical areas, organized into units, deepen and extend understanding of linear relationships, in part by contrasting them with exponential phenomena, and in part by applying linear models to data that exhibit a linear trend. Secondary Math I Honors uses properties and theorems involving congruent figures to deepen and extend understanding of geometric knowledge from prior grades. Another unit in the course ties together the algebraic and geometric ideas studied. Additionally, several concepts from Secondary Math II will be covered to accelerate learning of students who wish to enroll in the Honors 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.
Mathematics Lab (1.0 credit) 61838400 (This course is a support class and counts only as elective credit.)
This course helps students prepare to successfully pass Secondary Math I. Students also review skills and concepts to help them be successful with SAGE testing and learn basic test preparation strategies.
Science
Earth Science (1.0 credit) 62100200
This course integrates content from earth, physical, space, and life sciences. Students develop an understanding of interactions and interdependence within and between earth systems and biological systems, atmospheric systems, water systems, geologic systems, energy systems, and space.
Biology (1.0 credit) 62211000
This course includes the topics and vocabulary of cells, heredity, ecology, diversity, and evolution. Students will explain biological ideas or concepts in their own words, relate them to other topics, and apply them in new contexts.
Social Studies
Geography for Life (.50 credit) 63902000
This course is designed to introduce students to the physical and cultural patterns of the world. Geographic study includes mapping skills, the interaction between people and their environment, and the political and economic systems that they develop.
Geography for Life II (.50 credit) 63910000
Prerequisite: Geography for Life I
Honors Geography for Life I and II (1.0 credit) 63903000 & 63903100
Geography is a study of man’s physical, cultural, political and economic environment and their interaction. Map reading and the interpretation of charts and graphs will be emphasized. An understanding of world and local current events through different media sources will be gained.
Physical Education
P.E. Skills / Fitness for Life (1.0 credit) 68109000 / 68200000
This course provides students with the opportunity to develop skills, knowledge, and techniques in a variety of individual and team sports and rhythmic activities. Emphasis is placed on leadership and sportsmanship. Also this course assists students in accessing their own fitness level and in developing and implementing personal fitness plans to improve their level of physical fitness. Emphasis is placed on the components of fitness, proper, nutrition, and stress management.
World Languages
As world boundaries continue to open, both physically and communicatively, it becomes even more important that students acquire knowledge and skills to effectively communicate and interact cross-culturally. The goal is to provide instruction that gives students the necessary tools so they will have a greater understanding, acceptance and respect for the diversity of world culture.
American Sign Language I (1.0 credit) 64515000
This course focuses on concept development and basic communication. The receptive and expressive aspects of sign language are studied. Various aspects of the deaf/hearing-impaired people’s culture are studied.
The following World Language courses focus on concept development and on basic listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills with emphasis on literacy in oral communication. Students are also introduced to the grammatical structure of the language. The basic elements of each culture are studied:
Arabic I (1.0 credit) 64100000
Chinese I (1.0 credit) 64531000
French I (1.0 credit) 64211000
German I (1.0 credit) 64221000
Spanish I (1.0 credit) 64251000
Spanish II (1.0 credit) 64252000
Prerequisite: Spanish I and Spanish II at the middle school level.
This course continues the development of listening and speaking comprehension with continued emphasis on oral proficiency. Further emphasis is placed on the comprehension of the grammatical structure of the language. The cultures of Spanish-speaking countries are studied more in-depth.
Spanish for Native Speakers I (1.0 credit) 64521000
This class is designed for students whose first language is Spanish and who wish to develop literacy skills in Spanish. The course focuses on grammar, reading, writing, vocabulary, and culture. Students develop a greater appreciation of the Spanish language and identity. The class is taught entirely in Spanish. A modified oral proficiency interview is administered during the first week of class.
Fine Arts
As students create dances, theatrical productions, visual art works, and music, they learn how to express themselves and how to communicate with others. All fine arts courses study the principal periods of art history and the artists most closely associated with each of the periods. They also develop skills for analyzing and evaluating works of art and cultivate observation skills vital to looking at and discussing aesthetics.
3-D Design (.50 credit) 66100000
An introduction to crafts that will give students the opportunity to practice weaving, braiding, rug-hooking, basket weaving, beading, paper-mache, leather work, and other craft skills.
Design and Visual Communication (1.0 credit) 67421000
DVC is our foundation level course which introduces students to creating artwork and understanding different skills, materials, and principles of design. The color wheel, shading, perspective, and other principles of art will be taught.
Theatre Foundations I & II (1. credit) 66111000 & 66112000
This course introduces students to the history of theater and the role of the actor in interpreting dramatic literature, performance, theory, and techniques. Students have experiences with pantomime, voice, interpretations, movement, acting, improvisation, scene memorization, costumes, and make-up. Theatre II builds on the basic theatre concepts of Theatre Foundations I by comparing and integrating theatre elements with other art forms. Students have the opportunity to analyze and critique performances.
Chorus (1.0 credit) 66240000
In Chorus students sing in a chorale ensemble, develop vocal skills, and learn to read music. Students also strengthen listening skills and the ability to analyze and evaluate music and music performances.
In all band courses, students learn to play woodwind, brass or percussion instruments.
Concert Band (1.0 credit) 66233000
Steel Drum Band (1.0 credit) 66268000
Percussion Ensemble (1.0 credit) 66261000
Symphonic Band-Wind Ensemble (1.0 credit) 66235000
Symphony Orchestra (1.0 credit) 66266000
Guitar (.50 credit) 66902000
Dance IA and IB (.50 credit) 66105000 and (.50 credit) 66106000
Dance is a universal language. It is an expressive and vibrant art with the capacity to unify the physical, mental, social, emotional, aesthetic, and spiritual nature of humankind. This beginning level dance course develops dance knowledge and skills in technique, improvisation, choreography, artistic expression, performance, history, and culture.
Basic Digital Photography (.50 credit) 66223700
Prerequisite: Design and Visual Communication
This course is part of a sequence of courses that prepares individuals to use artistic techniques combined with a commercial perspective to effectively communicate ideas and information to business and consumer audiences via the use of digital photography. Instruction includes training in specialized camera and equipment operation, software usage, maintenance, applications to commercial and industrial needs, and photography business operations.
Career & Technical Education (CTE)
Career & Technical Education serves to empower students with skills needed to facilitate success in their lifelong education and career choices. Career & Technical Education (CTE) courses are integrated with a strong academic foundation, basic workplace and occupational skills, and competencies that focus on real world applications.
Accounting I & Accounting II (1.0 credit) 65201000 & 65202000
This course develops skills beginning with an understanding of the basic elements and concepts of double entry accounting systems. Skills include understanding the accounting cycle; entering transactions in journals; posting to ledgers; compiling end-of-period worksheets; adjusting and closing entries, statements, and reports; and completing banking activities and payroll systems.
Marketing 1 (.50 credit) 652213000
An introductory course that will teach concepts of entry-level business and marketing functions. The following skill standards will prepare the student in marketing: marketing and business fundamentals, selling, financing, product/service planning, information management, purchasing, distribution, pricing, promotion, risk management, career development, economics, communications, human relations, marketing math, and marketing operations. Student taking marketing classes will have the opportunity to participate in DECA (an association of marketing students).
Entrepreneurship Marketing (.50 credit) 67228000
During the first semester of this course, students will learn basic marketing and business principles. Such topics as selling, advertising and group interaction skills will be emphasized. During the second quarter, students will learn the basics of opening their own business and will have the opportunity to write an actual business plan for the business of their choice. Participation in DECA (an association of marketing students) is available to interested students.
Computer Programming I (1.0 credit) 65274000
This is a beginning to intermediate course in computer programming/software engineering and applications. This course introduces students to the fundamentals of computer programming, simple control and data structures, basic operating systems commands, sequential files, arrays, classes, recursive processes, and the use of text files. Students will learn to design, code and test their own programs. Programming Language: Java
Foundations of Technology (.50 credit) 67200000
Foundations of Technology is comprehensive action-based educational course concerned with technology. It enhances the potential of students to become successful and contributing participants with their technological environment so they can make rational decisions about their own lives on a day-to-day basis and participate in controlling their own destiny. It is a secondary school introduction to hands-on technology activities with emphasis placed on planning, design and problem solving. It is appropriate critical thinking and problem solving skills as they assess the technology that influences their daily lives and their future careers.
Child Development (1.0 credit) 67221000
This course prepares students with an understanding of human growth and development. The content covers children’s physical, mental, emotional, and social growth from the prenatal period through adolescence. Parenting skills are developed as appropriate care, positive guidance techniques, and child related issues are studied. This class prepares students to work with children in a pre-school or day-care center.
Clothing I & II (1.0 credit) 67191000 & 67192000
This course teaches students basic clothing construction techniques, clothing care and maintenance, selection and construction of various textiles, and operation and care of the sewing and pressing equipment..
Food and Nutrition I & II (1.0 credit) 67193000 & 67194000
Food and Nutrition I teaches the principles of nutrition and of maintaining a healthy level of fitness for life. Attention is given to the selection and preparation of food and personal health and well-being. Food and Nutrition II teaches the advanced concepts of nutrition and how it affects the health of individuals and families. Instruction is given in the care of food, meal management, food patterns, and food needs. Consumer skills are emphasized.
Interior Design I & II (1.0 credit) 67901000 & 67905000
This course teaches the elements and principles of design including line, shape, texture, color, rhythm, and balance. Students work with architectural designs, furniture styles, floor plans, color schemes, textures, fabrics, window treatments, and home furnishings.
Intro to Health Science (.50 credit) 67929000
This course is designed to create an awareness of career possibilities in health care and inform students of the educational options available for health science and health technology programs. Instruction includes beginning anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, medical ethics, diseases and disorders. The course prepares students for the Medical Anatomy and Physiology (MAP) course and/or for a variety of health technology programs. This class does not fulfill Health requirement.
Television Broadcasting I (.50 credit) 672722000
Students learn the basic principles of T.V. Production and news broadcasting. This course is the pre-requisite for following courses which allow students to apply skills learned to create a weekly “T.V. West” newscast.
Basic Electronics (1.0 credit) 67259000
This course prepares students to apply technical knowledge and skills to assemble, install, operate, maintain, and repair electrically energized systems, such as residential, commercial, and industrial electric power systems wiring, DC and AC motors, controls, and electrical distribution panels.
Small Engine Technician (.50 credit) 67246000
Students will be introduced to small internal combustion engines. They will be taught safety in the shop, disassembly and reassembly, inspection, diagnosis and repair of small gas powered engines using precision instruments and tools. Improper and careless use of machinery and tools create a risk of personal injury, therefore all students will be required to pass a safety test with a score of 100% before they are allowed to operate any machinery or power tool.
Woodworking Intro (.50 credit) 67288000
A hands-on experience that demonstrates mechanical concepts and procedures, preparing students to diagnose, troubleshoot, tune-up, repair, disassemble and reassemble small internal combustion engines used on motorcycles, scooters, ATV’s, go-carts, lawnmowers, leaf blowers, weed trimmers, chainsaws and more.
Woodworking I (1.0 credit) 67281000
This course prepares students to apply technical knowledge and skills to lay out and shape stock and assemble skateboards, long boards, small tables, book cases etc. It stresses the safe use of a variety of machinery, hand and power tools. Students will produce projects which incorporate all joints and tools.
Miscellaneous
Naval Science I JROTC (1.0 credit) 68281000
The Navy Junior ROTC Program is designed to teach leadership and good citizenship. This is accomplished through a broad-based academic program that includes leadership, oceanography, basic seamanship, naval history, first aid, sea power, maritime geography, and more. Academics are balanced with a practical leadership development program designed to build self-discipline and self-confidence. A variety of extracurricular activities provide additional opportunities for students to develop their self-confidence and put their leadership skills to practical use. These include repelling, hiking, camping, sailing, and more. The following ongoing activities are conducted throughout the year and give students the chance to compete against JROTC students from throughout Utah: Academic Team, Drill Team, Air Rifle and Air Pistol Marksmanship Teams, and Color Guard. Trips to military bases/ships are also conducted with interested students.
Release Time - Seminary (0.0 credit) 69901000
The student will have the opportunity during the four years of high school to study the Old Testament, New Testament, Book of Mormon, and Church History/Doctrine & Covenants.
AVID for 9th Graders (1.0 credit) 69230000
You must re-apply for AVID in 9th grade. Enrollment in 8th grade AVID does NOT guarantee placement in 9th grade AVID.
Revised 12/3/2104