WHS Program of Studies

The course selection process is entirely online. In advance of meeting with their school counselors, students should draft options for course selection.  Draft documents to help aid in course request brainstorming are available in the School Counseling Office.

Below is a description of the course selection process and deadlines for this year and the 2025-26 school year.

Until April 4, 2025, students and parents can make requests for changes in elective courses. Changes after this time are for corrections only.  It is important for students and parents to give serious consideration to what courses/levels are selected for each year.

Wissahickon High School strives to place students in appropriate courses.  Students and parents are provided with course information, meetings with counselors, parent information nights, and course verification notices to ensure that course requests are seriously considered and entered accurately.

If there is a disagreement in a course or level, then the counselor shall hold a meeting with the student, parents, and teachers/department chair to review the course and the student’s transcripts, grades, pattern of grades, and teacher recommendations.  Benchmark assessments can be provided for course/level selections.

Parent/Student Initiated Change in Course - Moving down a level in a non-elective core course:

Level changes will only be considered at the midpoint of the first marking period if:

1. The student is failing.

2. The student has documented that they have received additional supports offered by the district such as:  after school tutoring, IE period, and support classes where available.

3. The student has made an appointment with their guidance counselor to discuss the change, the impact on their future and the impact on their schedule.  After the mid-marking period point, students might be unable to schedule new courses.

4. The teacher has been consulted.

5. Parents/students must make requests for course drops/withdraw and schedule changes in writing.  (Waiver forms were previously supplied at the beginning of course selection).

This change will be done with an Administrator's approval and a grade of "W" will appear on the transcript after the mid-marking period point of the first marking period.  The student’s current grade in the course can be carried over to his/her new course, with a minimum of a 60% being used to transition into the new course.

When making recommendations for placements teachers utilize the following data: standardized test scores, past grades, and performance in their current class.  Every effort is made to make a thoughtful and appropriate recommendation.  As a parent, if you have a question about a teacher's recommendation and/or wish to waive the recommendation made for your student, you should complete the following steps:

1. Contact your student’s teacher and discuss their recommendation with them.
2. Contact your student’s guidance counselor to discuss the recommendation.
3. If you wish to waive the recommendation, you should ask your student’s guidance counselor for the Recommendation Waiver Form, complete the form and return it to the guidance counselor by:  April 4, 2025.

Please note that your son or daughter's course level will NOT be changed back and they are responsible for the completion of the course.

AP Capstone is a College Board program that equips students with the independent research, collaborative teamwork, and communication skills that are increasingly valued by colleges. It cultivates curious, independent, and collaborative scholars and develops logical, evidence-based decision-making skills.  Students may take the only the first or both courses.

AP Seminar is open to 10^th, 11^th, and 12^th graders who are eager to explore relevant topics of personal interest from multiple perspectives.  Students work to develop scholarly research, writing, and presentation skills in a fun and collaborative environment. The course cultivates student abilities to understand, craft, communicate, and defend evidence-based arguments, so it is an excellent supplement to other AP courses. 

AP Research is open to anyone who completed AP Seminar, and offers the opportunity for students to engage in a unique, self-designed, year-long independent research project with the support of their peers and a mentor.  

To earn the AP Capstone Diploma, students must earn a score of 3 or higher in both AP Seminar and AP Research, as well as a score of three or higher on four additional AP Exams of their choosing.  The additional course exams may be taken at any time during high school and need not be concurrent with the AP Seminar and AP Research courses.

Wissahickon School District is committed to "Excellence for All" and recognizes that students may want to challenge themselves by taking additional coursework over the summer with the purpose of advancing along a course sequence.  To accommodate this desire, students may take courses equivalent to Wissahickon High School's curriculum at alternative sites under the following conditions:

1. The student needs to meet with their school counselor to discuss the following:

a. The student needs to submit the course syllabus with contract signed by student and parent to the WHS Administrative Suite by May 2, 2025.

b. The syllabus will be submitted to the department chairperson for comparison to the school curriculum.  Please note that WHS cannot guarantee that the syllabus approved is delivered in an effective or complete way.  There can be great variety in the way educational providers implement instruction.

c. The student and parents will be notified within two weeks of submitted contract and syllabus if the request has been approved.

2. If approved, the student must:

a. Enroll in, pay for, and complete the course and turn in proof of course completion (transcript, report card, etc.)

b. Turn in a portfolio of the completed coursework to the Administrative Suite for approval.

c. By August 8, 2025, students are to take the Wissahickon Midterm and/or Final Exam for the corresponding honors course and score a 90% or above to move to the next course in the sequence.

d. Students will receive academic credit on their transcript.  The grade they earn on the Wissahickon final is the grade they will receive for the course.  No honors weighting (bonus points) will be received for these courses, but the grade will be calculated into the GPA.

3. There will be NO exceptions to this procedure.

4. Since it culminates in a Keystone Exam, alternative coursework for Biology, Algebra 1 or 10th Grade English will not be available to students.

Wissahickon High School offers a credit recovery program providing students an opportunity to remediate failures, in up to two courses, which they may have incurred during the school year. The student and their family are responsible for the cost of these credit recovery courses. WHS delivers credit recovery instruction in a virtual manner, where students will attend sessions at the high school in person but access the curriculum through a prescribed online asynchronous program. Students are strongly encouraged to remediate any core course (Language Arts, Math, Science, Social Studies) they may have failed to prevent becoming credit deficient.

To be eligible for credit recovery, students must have attended school regularly, taken advantage of opportunities for teacher remediation, and have earned a final grade of at least 50%. Students whose final grade is below 50% will be required to repeat the course. If students have failed to attend and participate in their classes, they may be excluded from credit recovery by the administration. The final decision regarding a student’s eligibility for credit recovery is made by the principal.

A student will be permitted to make up a maximum of 6 year-long courses from ninth grade through graduation from high school. All additional remediation needed must take place within the regular school program. A student will be permitted to make up a maximum of 2 year-long courses per summer. A failure must be made up in the summer immediately following the school year (i.e. a failure in the 2024-25 school year is made up in the summer of 2025).

The credit recovery grade will appear on the official transcript as an additional remedial course and the appropriate credit applied. Credit for credit recovery courses for 2025 will be applied to the 2024-25 transcript. Both the failing grade and the credit recovery grade are listed on the transcript and calculated into the GPA. Students may “audit” remedial courses for personal improvement in the subject. No grade or credit will be given for courses audited, and the student and their family incur the expense for the audited course.

Wissahickon High School and Montgomery County Community College (MCCC) have partnered to offer dual credit classes in specific curricular areas.  A student participating in dual credit will be enrolled at both WHS and MCCC and if successful, will earn credits towards graduation at both institutions.  Classes will be offered at WHS during the regular school day and will be taught by WHS faculty.  Students will be eligible for a reduced tuition rate from MCCC and will need to meet WHS and MCCC eligibility requirements.  More information on the availability of these courses can be found in WHS Guidance.  Please note that offerings can change based on faculty and course availability.  The course will run as dual credit if the number of students signing up meets the minimum number of students required by the college to offer the course as dual credit.  

(GRADE 9)
Marking Period Course
Academic Level

This one marking period required course is taken during students’ freshman year. Throughout the course, students will be oriented to Wissahickon’s program of studies and Trojan Pathways. As part of this course, students will develop a portfolio of resources. The areas of concentration for this course are executive functioning skills and leadership, college and career readiness, and financial literacy. Course topics include: self-awareness, study skills development, time-management techniques, note-taking approaches, organizational tips, goal-setting, decision making, college and career exploration and preparation, and financial literacy. Opportunities will be given to plan for the future by identifying interests and strengths, as well as interacting with community partners. The importance of a good education and a meaningful high school learning experience are stressed. Students will ponder the questions of: Who am I? What do I want? What is my why? How do I get there?

The Gateway to College Program is a partnership with Montgomery County Community College that supports communities in building sustainable pathways for disconnected youth to earn a high school diploma and experience a meaningful college experience.  Students are able to attend classes at MCCC for up to two semesters while also earning high school credits.

The purpose of Independent Study is to allow students to engage in a course of study, which is not normally offered by the Wissahickon School District.  With the sponsoring teacher, students will be required to develop a syllabus/plan of study and have that plan approved by the Department Chair, school counselor, and assistant principal. The student must be a 12th grader, be in good academic standing and not credit deficient, and have exhausted all the WHS classes in that course area.  Students will receive honors credit for the course; the grade recorded by the sponsoring teacher will be calculated into the GPA. 

The Senior Internship Program is a voluntary 12^th grade experience where students are able to spend half of their school day at an internship in the field of their choice while earning academic credit. Students are required to provide their own transportation to and from the internship placement. Students need to enroll in one additional year-long or two semester-long courses as well as the required English, Social Studies and Math/Science courses. The prerequisite for 12^th grade students interested in Senior Internship includes completion of 3.0 credits in English, 3.0 credits in Social Studies, 2.0 credits in Mathematics, 2.0 credits in Science and three years of physical education. 

Wissahickon High School offers students an opportunity to engage in online asynchronous classes through VHS Learning .  Students will be scheduled for a period per day in order to work on any course not currently offered in the WHS curriculum.  You can get more information regarding VHS by contacting your school counselor; the VHS site coordinator, Ms. Pronko; or by accessing VHS at http://vhslearning.org/.  The final grade and course credit will be awarded based on the VHS course level completed and the grade will be included in the WHS GPA.  Seats are limited so students are encouraged to meet all deadlines and submission dates. 

Students enrolled in Allied Health or Biomedical Tech through NMTCC are required to select a VHS class or the Independent Study in STEM Research Skills course described here:

#9961—Independent study in STEM research skills  

This one-credit research skills class offers an alternative to the VHS Learning class that is mandatory  for any  11^th or 12^th grader who has been accepted to the Biotech (a laboratory intensive program) or Allied Health program (participation in clinical rotations and classes at a local hospital.) Students will familiarize themselves with the scientific research process drawing on subject matter from those programs.  Coursework will be completed independently, supported by periodic check ins with the research librarian.  Students will develop skills including using databases, developing research questions, synthesizing information, and reporting information.  NOTE: open to Biotech/Allied Health students only 

The Wissahickon Virtual Academy is managed and delivered by the Wissahickon School District.  Course offerings are available at various academic levels to support and encourage rigor.  The curriculum aligns with the district’s credit requirements and is aligned with the Pennsylvania state standards.  The Wissahickon Virtual Academy offers computer-based, asynchronous courses completed through an online platform.  WVA teachers are not employed by the Wissahickon School District, but academic support is provided by Wissahickon teachers during or after school hours.  District technical support, including a district issued laptop computer that can be used at home is provided to WVA students.  Wissahickon school counselors are available to support goals for college or career readiness, including online resources to help create a post-secondary plan.  WVA students can also participation in more than 35 extra-curricular activities and 30 team sports during fall, winter, and spring seasons.  WVA students are also encouraged to participate in all social events sponsored by WSD, including athletic events, dances, pep rallies, class assemblies, prom, graduation, etc.  The WVA is currently enrolling students in grades 7-12 for the spring semester of the 2022-23 school year.

View more information about WVA

AP Capstone™ is an innovative diploma program from the College Board that equips students with the independent research, collaborative teamwork, and communication skills that are increasingly valued by colleges. AP Capstone is built on the foundation of two AP courses — AP Seminar and AP Research — and is designed to complement and enhance the in-depth, discipline-specific study experienced in other AP courses.

Students who earn scores of 3 or higher in AP Seminar and AP Research and on four additional AP Exams of their choosing will receive the AP Capstone Diploma. Students who earn scores of 3 or higher in AP Seminar and AP Research but not on four additional AP Exams will receive the AP Seminar and Research Certificate. AP Seminar may also be taken as a stand-alone option.

#8110 - AP SEMINAR (Grades 10-12)
Yearlong Course
Honors Level
Seminar is a foundational course that engages students in cross-curricular conversations that explore the complexities of academic and real-world topics and issues by analyzing divergent perspectives. Using an inquiry framework, students practice reading and analyzing articles, research studies, and foundational literary and philosophical texts. They will also listen to speeches, broadcasts, or personal accounts, as we view artistic works or performances. Students learn to synthesize information from multiple sources, develop their own perspectives in research-based essays, and design and deliver oral and visual presentations, as individuals and as part of a team.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of at least one Honors class in English or Social Studies.

#8120 - AP RESEARCH (Grades 11-12)
Yearlong Course
Honors Level
In the AP Research course, students further their skills acquired in the AP Seminar course by understanding research methodology; employing ethical research practices; and accessing, analyzing, and synthesizing information. This course allows students to deeply explore an academic topic, problem, or issue of individual interest. Through this exploration, students design, plan, and conduct a year-long investigation to address a research question. Students explore their skill development, document their processes, and curate the artifacts of the development of their scholarly work in a portfolio. The course culminates in an academic paper and a presentation with an oral defense. Students will work with a mentor in addition to the classroom teacher. A study hall is strongly advised to allow flexibility in data collection.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of AP Seminar.

It is essential that students planning to apply to schools offering a BFA degree in a visual arts field have a portfolio prepared by the midpoint of their senior year. In order to develop a quality representation of work and demonstrate a mature ability to manipulate a variety of media, it is recommended that students have progressed to an advanced level art course by their junior year. Courses recommended are Art I, II, III, & IV and/or concentration in another area of focus in the department: Graphic Design, Ceramics, or Photography.

#7731 - ART I (Grades 9-12)
Semester Course
Academic Level
This is a foundation course where students will investigate a variety of media used in the creative process. Students will explore numerous skills, techniques, and art concepts. Verbal and written critical analysis of one's own work and that of others will be an integral part of this course.

#7732 - ART II (Grades 9-12)
Semester Course
Academic Level
As a follow-up to Art I, this course involves more in-depth investigations that will explore concepts and processes. Creative problem-solving and media manipulation will inform the assignments. Verbal and written critical analysis of one's own work and that of others will continue to be an integral part of this course.
Prerequisite: Art I.

#7734/#7733/#7736/#7735 - ART III H (Grades 10-12)
Yearlong or Semester Course (Single or Double periods)
Honors Level
This course is for students with high motivation in further developing individual interests and skills in various forms of artistic expression. Students will investigate contextual perspectives of visual communication and visual culture while developing their own aesthetic and artistic voice. Preparation of the artist's portfolio and other individual projects will be emphasized for students who are taking these courses with the intent of pursuing a career in the field of art. In a studio setting, students will develop their skills both two and three dimensionally, utilizing multi-media and digital forms of expression. Art III may be taken as a single or double period course both semesters. Outside assignments are required in Art III.
Prerequisite: Art II.

#7744/#7743/#7746/#7745 - Art IV H (Grades 11-12)
Yearlong or Semester Course (single or double periods)
Honors Level
Honors Level Art IV is a rigorous course of study designed for students who wish to focus on an area of artistic concentration or pursue art as a career. Students will concentrate upon the areas of their working portfolio that need strengthening. The course will also provide students the ability to explore and research their personal aesthetic through supervised study. Students are required to maintain a visual journal and present a college-admissions-level visual arts portfolio that includes a digital media component. Students are expected to attend National Portfolio Day and will learn how to complete the necessary steps in the college application process, including writing personal statements of purpose and preparing a digital portfolio. Self-discipline and a willingness to seek new challenges are expected. Art IV may be taken as a single or double period both semesters. Outside assignments are required in Art III.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of any Level III H Art class (Ceramics, Photography, or Graphic Design).

#7820 ADVANCED PLACEMENT 2-D Art and Design (Grade 12)
#7821 ADVANCED PLACEMENT 3-D Art and Design (Grade 12)
Yearlong Course
Honors Level
AP 2-D Art and Design and AP 3-D Art and Design are introductory college-level design courses. Students refine and apply skills and ideas they develop throughout the course to produce two-dimensional or three-dimensional art and design. The AP Art and Design course framework is composed of course skills, big ideas, essential questions and enduring understandings, learning objectives, and essential knowledge. AP Art and Design skill categories delineate overarching understandings central to the study and practice of art and design. Each of the three skill categories consists of skills that encompass foundational to advanced learning over the span of the course. Students need to develop, practice, and apply these skills in a variety of contexts. The AP Art and Design framework included in the course and exam description outlines distinct skills that students should practice throughout the year—skills that will help them learn to think and act like artists. Skills 2 and 3 are specifically assessed in both portfolio sections (Sustained Investigation and Selected Works). 1) Inquiry and Investigation: Investigate materials, processes, and ideas. 2) Making Through Practice, Experimentation, and Revision: Make works of art and design by practicing, experimenting, and revising. 3) Communication and Reflection: Communicate ideas about art and design.
Teacher recommendation highly recommended.

#7825 - ART MEDIA MENTORSHIP (Grades 11-12)
Semester Course
Academic Level
In this collaborative course, students will serve as mentors for individuals with special needs. Manipulation of media and creative problem solving with others will inform assignments. Verbal and written reflection of individual and collaborative works will be an integral part of this course. This course will follow selected curricula topics found in Art I/II.

#7749 - CERAMICS I (Grades 9-12)
Semester Course
Academic Level
This course presents an introduction to the basic techniques of construction in clay. Activities will include hand construction, wheel throwing, glazing, and experimenting with surface texture. Emphasis will be placed on form as well as function in clay construction.

#7759 - CERAMICS II H (Grades 9-12)
Semester Course
Honors Level
This course will incorporate basic elements of hand construction techniques requiring more advanced problem-solving skills. Greater emphasis will be placed on throwing pots on the wheel, creative experimentation, and surface decoration. Portfolio-quality ceramic projects will be emphasized.
Prerequisite: Ceramics I.

#7760 - CERAMICS III H (Grades 10-12)
Semester Course
Honors Level
Ceramics 3 is a course designed for highly motivated, advanced ceramic students wishing to create an independently designed body of work. This course will build from the technical and conceptual foundations established in Ceramics I and II and challenge students to develop a consistent and effective studio practice while maintaining a standard of excellence in their design and craftsmanship. This course is strongly recommended for (though not limited to) students wishing to study ceramics, crafts, or other visual arts at the post-secondary level. Students in this course will develop a working research journal, artist website and admissions portfolio. Investigations will be student designed and driven, encouraging creative freedom, and further developing disciplined independence in studio practice and time/resource management. Students may take Ceramics III multiple semesters for credit.
Prerequisite: Ceramics II H.

#7709 - GRAPHIC DESIGN I (Grades 9-12)
Semester Course
Academic Level
In this introductory course, students will learn to use Photoshop and Illustrator software to create illustrations and layout designs. This hands-on computer course provides the student with an opportunity to learn how to design like a graphic designer, while working on current topics. Students taking this course will have access to the Adobe Creative Cloud software suite on their district-issued laptop for the duration of the course.

#7719 - GRAPHIC DESIGN II H (Grades 9-12)
Semester Course
Honors Level
This course is for the highly motivated student who wants to bring their computer design, illustration, and layout skills to another level, while receiving Honors credit. Students will continue to use Photoshop and Illustrator professional software to create original designs and illustrations. There will be a focus on illustration and branding design.
Prerequisite: Graphic Design I.

#7720 - GRAPHIC DESIGN III H (Grades 10-12)
Semester Course
Honors Level
This course is for the independent and highly motivated student who may be interested in pursuing a career in graphic design. Students will work directly with clients to create forms, design logos, and create multi-page layouts to serve the needs of their clients. Students will increase their skill level in Photoshop and Illustrator and can utilize their own devices, such as iPads/ProCreate, if preferred. Students will develop a portfolio of work that will reflect their graphic design skills.
Prerequisite: Graphic Design II H or written approval of instructor. 

#6218 - PHOTOGRAPHY I (Grades 9-12)
Semester Course
Academic Level
In this introduction course, students will explore digital photography through various investigations, narratives, and studio assignments. Students will study basic camera handling, composition, and historical and cultural aesthetics.
Using digital editing and mixed—media approaches, students will enhance and learn to optimize their photographic imagery. DSLR cameras are provided for students to use during class. Students are responsible for providing SD data storage cards.

#6228 - PHOTOGRAPHY II H (Grades 9-12)
Semester Course
Honors Level
This course is designed for students who wish to continue the study of digital photography. The exploration of advanced shooting techniques and computer manipulation will be included. From capture to print, students will further develop an understanding of photographic imaging capabilities. Studio investigations will center on photographic themes, portraiture, and individual artistic styles, as well as post-production editing techniques. DSLR cameras are provided for students to use during class. Students are responsible for providing SD data storage cards.
Prerequisite: Photography I.

#6238 - PHOTOGRAPHY III H (Grades 10-12)
Semester Course
Honors Level
In Photo III, students will define their “personal voice” through a variety of conceptual assignments based on the fundamentals of digital photography. Studio investigations present both technical and creative challenges as students work toward the cultivation of individual artistic visions. DSLR cameras are provided for students to use during class. Students are responsible for providing SD data storage cards.
Prerequisite:  Photography II H.

#7881 - CREATIVE EXPRESSION (Grades 9-12)
Semester Course
Academic Level
This course is designed for any student who wishes to explore the creative process but may be unsure about taking a traditional skills-based art course. Students will engage in individual and collaborative hands-on activities (making) and dialogues (discussing) that examine issues related to self-awareness, social awareness, community building and decision making. This class will recognize and employ various cultural modes of creative expression including but not limited to: mixed media, traditional crafts, popular design in fashion and culture, performance/video, and alternative approaches to 2D art. Students will have the opportunity to make decisions about the materials and processes they use throughout the course.

#7712 - WEB DESIGN (Grades 9-12)
Semester Course
Academic Level
In this introductory course, students will explore the basics of Web Design while understanding UX (User Experience) and UI (User Interface). Hands-on and task-oriented activities using Illustrator software will allow the student to build upon and improve their web layout skills. Students will have the opportunity to create their web designs using an online format. Students taking this course will have access to the Adobe Creative Cloud software suite on their district-issued laptop for the duration of the course.

The Business Education Department offers all students the opportunity to select from its program of studies any courses they feel will help them to develop personally useful business and computer skills.

It is recommended that students who plan to attend college for Business, Business Administration or Accounting take Accounting I and Accounting II Honors, Personal Finance, and a Computer Programming class.

The Academic and Honors English curriculum utilizes an integrated approach to language built on a collection of non-fiction and fiction. The reading selections provide a mixture of genres with an array of cultural perspectives. Teachers use core texts to model strategies that serve as the “heart” of reading and writing workshops. Students will be provided opportunities to strengthen their understanding, analysis, and evaluation of texts while developing and honing their own writing craft. Over the course of four years, students will learn to read like writers and to write like readers.

The Family and Consumer Science curriculum provides an opportunity for all students to develop skills and knowledge related to the areas of food and family life education. Students are encouraged to explore both areas of Family and Consumer Science.

It is the goal of the Physical Education and Health Department to graduate students who are both "Physically Educated and Health Literate.” The program has been designed to meet the physical, social, and emotional needs of every student. The curriculum promotes the optimal function of the heart, lungs, muscles, and mind while encouraging physical exercise as a lifetime habit and worthy use of leisure time. This is supported by the health curriculum, which develops a working knowledge of the body and its relationship to the environment and society.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND HEALTH REQUIREMENTS:
♦ 9th grade - Wellness (Full year course)
♦ 10th grade - one semester of Physical Education elective
♦ 11th grade - 11th grade Health (one semester)
♦ 12th grade - one semester of a Physical Education elective

The Wissahickon School District Mathematics Department believes that all students are capable of learning Mathematics and should be encouraged to excel in Mathematics. Both the Principles and Standards for School Mathematics adopted by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics and the Common Core adopted by the Pennsylvania Department of Education have heavily influenced the instruction of Mathematics at Wissahickon.

CALCULATOR INFORMATION
Calculators have become part of our everyday affairs. Advanced mathematics and science courses require that calculators have trigonometric functions and graphing capabilities. For these courses, the Math Department recommends the TI-84. Calculators using symbolic manipulations (for example:  TI-92, TI-89, HP-48, or TI N Spire [CAS]) are not permitted.

The Wissahickon High School Science Department endorses the National Science Education Standards (1996) as well as the Pennsylvania State Standards on Science, Technology, Environment and Ecology passed in January 2002. Both sets of standards are premised on a "conviction that all students deserve and must have the opportunity to become scientifically literate."  The Science Department has aligned the courses to meet these standards through the curriculum review process. Further, we agree that a scientifically literate person is one who "is aware that science, mathematics and technology are interdependent human enterprises with strengths and limitation; understands key concepts and principles of science; is familiar with the natural world and recognizes both its diversity and its unity; and uses scientific knowledge and scientific ways of thinking for individual and social purposes."

Students electing to take an AP Science course  are required to attend class during one IE session each cycle.

The Social Studies program prepares students to think and write analytically through a historical framework. Students will learn how to question and formulate original opinions while being exposed to a chronological history of several focus points. It is intended that every student be aware of ongoing global events in order to become part of an increasing global environment. Along this journey, students will be exposed to government, economics, geography, historiography, and other social sciences. Students will be required to take the following year-long courses, each available on the academic and honors levels in 9th through 11th grades. Students will need to take either a full year or two semesters of Social Studies during their 12th grade year.

#1154/#1204 - GLOBAL HISTORY I/II - HONORS ENRICHMENT (Grades 9 & 10)
Yearlong Course
Honors Level
This co-mingled ninth and tenth grade course is an interdisciplinary approach led by participating Social Studies and English teachers. The program consists of two parts: content and enrichment. Curriculum content specific to Global History will be determined biannually relative to the honors curriculum of the given year. Students enrolling in this course can expect a focus on the skills of critical thinking, research proficiency, synthesis of information, argumentation, writing and public speaking. Strong reading skills, intellectual curiosity, and a disciplined work ethic are essential for success. This program welcomes both gifted and non-gifted students who have demonstrated advanced performance in their Social Studies classes. Key characteristics differentiating the Honors level from the Social Studies portion of the co-taught enrichment program will include reading level of supplemental materials, pacing, expectation of workload, and expected work product. Class time is split with the enrichment portion of the program, which will consist of team-taught, interdisciplinary thematic units. Overall, the enrichment program is accelerated and condensed. GLOBAL HISTORY II – HONORS ENRICHMENT (#1204) will be offered in school year 2025-2026.

#1150/#1152 - GLOBAL HISTORY I (Grade 9)
Yearlong Course
Academic/Honors Levels
This course will expose students to a wide breadth of history and cultures from around the world. Students will begin studying Ancient Greece and Rome and will end with the Renaissance Era. The honors level course will differ in its focus on analytical writing and outside reading.

#1200/1202 - GLOBAL HISTORY II (Grade 10) 
Yearlong Course
Academic/Honors Levels
This course will continue with the curriculum offered in 9^th grade and will again give a wide breadth of history and cultures from around the world. Students will begin this course with the Age of Enlightenment and will end the year learning about current events and the historical events/issues that have led to them. The honors level course will differ in its focus on analytical writing and outside reading.

#1690 - AP WORLD HISTORY: MODERN (Grade 10)
Yearlong Course
Honors Level
In AP World History: Modern, students investigate significant events, individuals, developments, and processes from 1200 to the present. Students develop and use the same skills, practices, and methods employed by historians: analyzing primary and secondary sources; developing historical arguments; making historical connections; and utilizing reasoning about comparison, causation, and continuity and change over time. The course provides six themes that students explore throughout the course in order to make connections among historical developments in different times and places: humans and the environment, cultural developments and interactions, governance, economic systems, social interactions and organization, and technology and innovation.  College course equivalent, AP World History: Modern is designed to be the equivalent of an introductory college or university survey of modern world history.

#1496/1498 - UNITED STATES HISTORY (Grade 11)
Yearlong Course
Academic/Honors Levels
This course will combine a chronological and thematic approach to the study of social, political, and economic developments, along with the roles civic discourse plays in modern United States history from World War II to the present. The course will also examine the increasing role the United States plays in the global community during this period. Topics of study include but are not limited to elements necessary for responsible, involved citizens, increased U.S. influence over international economic, social, and political issues; struggle for greater civil rights; conflict and compromise within the U.S.; a focus on the modern political process. Students will examine the historical foundation for each topic, as well as an in-depth analysis of each topic post World War II.  All students will also take the state-required civics assessment as part of this course. The honors level course will differ in its focus on analytical writing and outside reading.

#1491 - ADVANCED PLACEMENT AMERICAN HISTORY (Grade 11)
Yearlong Course
Honors Level
This challenging college level course covers American History from colonial times to the present. It will help prepare honors students to take the required Advanced Placement Test in May, which may qualify them for advanced standing in college. Extensive outside reading, writing, and research are required. All students will take the state-required civics assessment as part of this course.
Prerequisite:  Grade of an A or B in previous honors-level social studies courses, recommendation of prior Social Studies teacher, successful completion of preliminary summer reading and a written assignment.

#1530/1531 - AFRICAN-AMERICAN STUDIES (Grade 12)
Semester Course
Academic/Honors Levels
This course is a chronological survey of the history of African Americans from their African beginnings through their progress in the twenty-first century. Five units in the history of African Americans will be emphasized - becoming African American; antebellum Black life and migrations; leadership and Black political power through Reconstruction; Black intelligentsia and cultural Renaissance; legalized injustice and Civil Rights movements through the modern era.

#1502/1501 - AMERICAN GOVERNMENT (Grade 12)
Semester Course
Academic/Honors Level
American Government is a one-semester course which examines the way the U.S. Government functions both constitutionally and in practice. The course begins by addressing the historical foundations of the American political system and the types of governments that exist in the world today. The remainder of the course focuses upon the structure of government, the various methods used to participate in the American government system, and the role of citizenship with civic issues. Emphasis is placed on the recurring themes such as civic discourse, civil liberties, checks and balances, limited government, and current political issues at the national, state, and local levels.

#1532/1533 - CURRENT ISSUES (Grade 12)
Semester Course
Academic/Honors Levels
Current Issues is the study of current social, economic, and political topics. The course will cover contemporary and complex issues related to topics such as politics, governance, crime, poverty, economics, education, immigration, arms proliferation, and human rights. Students will be required to read, watch, and listen to different media in order to find reliable information to create an intellectual and well-informed opinion about contemporary topics. Students will explore and analyze new subject matter and learn to respect others’ opinions on those matters while developing their own.

#1534/1535 - WOMEN’S STUDIES (Grade 12)
Semester Course
Academic/Honors Levels
This course will examine the role of women throughout American History as well as the political, economic, and cultural roles of women in today’s global society. Topics analyzed in Women’s Studies include American Suffrage Movement, women who have changed their world and the ever-changing role of women in the world. Student-centered activities and performance assessments are an integral part of this course.

#1536/1537 - WORLD RELIGIONS (Grade 12)
Semester Course
Academic/Honors Levels
This course is an academic survey of major world religions. The main goal in this course is the enhancement of cultural literacy by acquiring well-rounded but basic knowledge of the origins, teachings (doctrines), major literature, major practices, and other aspects of these religions. We often compare and contrast religions with the pursuit of knowledge as our goal. Honest and respectful discourse will be expected in this class.

#1691 - ADVANCED PLACEMENT ECONOMICS (Grade 12)
Yearlong Course
Honors Level
This is a college-level course in two semesters covering microeconomics and macroeconomics. It is designed to help students prepare to take the Advanced Placement test in May. Topics in microeconomics include:  the theory of the firm; cost accounting; competition in the market (perfect, imperfect, monopoly and monopolistic); and international trade and exchange. Sample macroeconomics units include gross national product and variations; national income accounting; monetary and fiscal policy; economic policy relations among nations; and other key concepts included in the AP exam.
Students should be highly motivated and possess good verbal, writing, and computational skills. This is a highly intense course covering more than a chapter per week using a college text.
Prerequisite:  High levels of achievement in previous honors-level Social Studies courses, recommendation of prior Social Studies teacher and successful completion of a preliminary assignment. It is highly recommended that students have completed Algebra II Honors.

#1694 - ADVANCED PLACEMENT UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS (Grade 12)
Yearlong Course
Honors Level
This course will give students an analytical perspective on government and politics in the United States. It includes both the study of general concepts used to interpret U.S. government and politics and the analysis of specific examples. This course introduces students to key political ideas, institutions, policies, interactions, roles, and behaviors that characterize the political culture of the United States and examines politically significant concepts and themes, through which students learn to apply disciplinary reasoning, assess causes and consequences of political events, and interpret data to develop evidence-based arguments. It requires familiarity with the various institutions, groups, beliefs, and ideas that constitute U.S. government and politics. Students will become acquainted with a variety of theoretical perspectives and explanations for various behaviors and outcomes.
Prerequisite:  High levels of achievement in previous honors-level Social Studies courses and recommendation of prior Social Studies teacher.

ELECTIVES

#1891 - ADVANCED PLACEMENT EUROPEAN HISTORY (Grades 10-12)
Yearlong Course
Honors Level
This is a challenging, two-semester course covering European History from the 15th Century to the present. It is designed to help prepare students to take the Advanced Placement test in May, which may qualify them for advanced standing in college. Extensive outside reading, writing, and research are required. There will be a mandatory preliminary meeting scheduled by the course teacher in the spring semester for all students requesting this course.
Prerequisite:  Grade of A in previous honors-level Social Studies course, recommendation of prior Social Studies teacher, and successful completion of preliminary assignment.

#1696 - ADVANCED PLACEMENT PSYCHOLOGY (Grades 11-12)
Yearlong Course
Honors Level
This course is offered to 11^th and 12^th grade students who are willing to accept the challenge of a rigorous academic curriculum. The Advanced Placement Program offers a course in psychology to qualified students who wish to complete studies in secondary school equivalent to an introductory college course in psychology. 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, and phenomena associated with each of the major subfields within psychology. Students will explore how psychologists use ethical research methods and critical analysis to explore the behavior of both humans and animals. The course will discuss how biological, cognitive, and cultural factors converge to facilitate the unique human experience. In short, we will ask the what, why, how, and when about the human condition.
Prerequisite:  High levels of achievement in previous honors-level Social Studies courses and recommendation of prior Social Studies teacher.

#1652 - PSYCHOLOGY (Grades 10-12)
Semester Course
Academic Level
This course introduces the students to the major principles of psychology. Students will begin by exploring the history of psychological thought followed by the key approaches and methods of research used to understand behavior. The course will then examine the biological bases of behavior including the brain, nervous system, endocrine system, sensation, and perception. As the course progresses, the students will be exposed to other key topics including learning, personality theory, development, sleep and dreams, abnormal psychology, treatment of disorders, and social psychology. Students can expect to be asked to read their textbook outside of class, explore psychological literature, complete assignments within and outside of the classroom, and execute at least one project. Successful completion of this course coupled with a strong interest in the subject matter may be a strong indicator for success on the AP level, which is open to juniors and seniors.

#1340 - SOCIOLOGY (Grades 11-12)
Semester Course
Academic Level
This course includes an overview of the principles of sociology, as the study of society and human behavior. Students will gain an understanding of the theories and research methods that guide sociological study within socialization, social networks, social control, and inequality. Students will also use core sociological concepts to analyze issues occurring in the world currently. Potential topics for study include gender roles, deviance, crime, gang activity, cults, conformity, prejudice, racism, self-fulfillment, social responsibility, and other issues pertinent to understanding the social experience.

#1658 - WAR AND PEACE IN HISTORY (Grades 11-12)
Semester Course
Academic Level
This is a one-semester elective course for eleventh and twelfth-grade students. It examines human conflict and efforts at peace throughout history. In the first marking period, students will study the origins of conflict, the evolution of military methods and tactics, and how American cultural views conflict. The second marking period will focus on peace movements in history, non-violent revolution, and conflict resolution.
This course is for motivated students who are interested in understanding human conflict. It will require independent reading and research assignments focusing on the philosophical questions surrounding the issues of war and peace and their effects on society. Students will participate in simulations, interact with guest speakers, discuss books and articles, and complete research reports while participating in this course.

Special Education is designed to allow eligible and/or exceptional students the opportunity to reach their potential. Specially designed instruction is provided in the Least Restrictive Environment. Placement in Learning Support, Emotional Support, Autistic Support, Life Skills Support, Reading Support, or Gifted Support are determined depending on the student's individual needs and at the recommendation of the IEP team.

Eligibility for special education is determined through a comprehensive evaluation. If the student is determined to need special education instruction, the IEP team provides the exceptional student with the most appropriate educational program and placement. Regulations for such placement are established by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

In order to provide students with access to a rigorous curriculum, Wissahickon High School supports an inclusionary model in the general education classroom. Most special education students at the high school are included in all regular education classes with support and monitoring provided by the Learning Support staff. The district also provides individualized programs of learning in the major areas of English, Social Studies, Science, and Math. These classes are organized to allow students to receive a maximum amount of individual attention and lessons are planned to help ensure each student’s academic progress. Various direct instruction classes are offered in the core content areas are offered based on course selection demand (ie: English 9, Basic Algebra, etc.).

#6S01 - ENGLISH 9 (Grade 9)
#6S02 - ENGLISH 10 (Grade 10)
#6S703 - ENGLISH 11 (Grade 11)
#6S04 - ENGLISH 12 (Grade 12)
Yearlong Course
These English/Language Literature courses are graded, direct instruction Special Education classes for students with IEP goals in the area English/Language Arts. These courses follow the grade-level curriculum with modifications and supports to assist each student in meeting success with reading and writing.

#6S37 - BASIC ALGEBRA (Grade 9)
#6S39 - BASIC GEOMETRY (Grade 10)
#6S734 - BASIC ALGEBRA II (Grade 11)
Yearlong Course
These Math courses are graded, direct instruction Special Education classes for students with IEP goals in the area of Mathematics.  These courses follow the grade-level curriculum with modifications and supports to assist each student in meeting success with math.

#6S73 - STUDY SKILLS (Grade 9)
#6S74 - STUDY SKILLS (Grade 10)
#6S75 - STUDY SKILLS (Grade 11)
#6S76 - STUDY SKILLS (Grade 12)
Yearlong Course
Study Skills is a graded Special Education support course designed to help students meet their individualized IEP goals. The primary focus areas are IEP goal monitoring and data collection, delivering specially designed instruction (SDI) for individualized support, and providing targeted interventions in math and reading. Students also receive one-on-one support, including reviews of grades and assignments. After these priorities are addressed, Study Skills offers assistance with assignments, guidance on self-advocacy with teachers, and extended time for assessments when needed. The course is tailored to meet each student’s unique needs and earns a grade and credit toward graduation.

#6S69/#6S70 - STUDY SUPPORT (Grades 9-12)
Semester Course
Study Support is a flexible, ungraded Special Education support option available to students with an IEP. This course serves as an alternative to study hall, offering either two or four periods of support per cycle based on the student’s needs or teacher recommendation. Study Support provides additional time and a structured environment to work on assignments, receive targeted help, and strengthen skills required for IEP goal completion. While Study Support does not earn a grade or credit toward graduation, fully mainstreamed students benefit from regular monitoring by a resource teacher.

#6S09 - READING SUPPORT (Grades 9-12)
Yearlong Course
Students eligible for Reading Support require additional instruction on and assistance with reading comprehension and oral fluency. This class focuses on providing targeted intervention activities, including direct and explicit instruction in phonics, phonemic awareness, semantics, decoding, and oral reading fluency. Students will engage in activities designed to improve their reading skills and will work towards achieving their Individualized Education Plan (IEP) reading and writing goals. This course aims to enhance students’ overall literacy, ensuring they gain the necessary skills to succeed academically. Participation in Reading Support will earn students a grade and credit towards graduation, reflecting their progress and commitment to improving their reading abilities.

#6S78 - RESOURCE SUPPORT
Yearlong Course
Students who are eligible for emotional support are students who primarily need assistance with social and emotional development. Students are provided with support to aid them in developing appropriate coping strategies and social skills. Student performance and behavior are carefully monitored, and supportive adjustments are made as necessary to maximize student success. This course includes formal lessons and will provide academic support, counseling, and check-ins. Students in Resource Support are graded and will earn a credit based on participation and utilization.

LIFE SKILLS SUPPORT
The Life Skills Program is designed to teach practical, functional skills to students with Autism and students with more significant disabilities. There is a focus on academic, vocational, and independent living skills with the overall goal being to help students acquire skills that will allow them to live as independently as possible. Classes include Functional Reading, Functional Math, Adaptive Science/Social Studies, Community Based Instruction, Activities of Daily Living, Social/Safety, and Vocational Skills.

AUTISTIC SUPPORT
The Autistic Support program is a language-based classroom that focuses on the function of language. The students in Autistic Support also work on functional reading, functional math, one to one teaching, and whole group instruction. The program focuses on Natural Environment Teaching (NET) that helps our students to generalize the skills learned in the classroom and apply them out in the community.

GIFTED EDUCATION
In accordance with Chapter 16, the Wissahickon School District has established specific procedures for gifted identification. This formal procedure includes recommendation through the Child Study Team, Multi-Disciplinary Evaluation, and a GIEP planning meeting. Students at the high school may be challenged through participation in a variety of individual opportunities, including Honors Level classes and Advanced Placement classes within the regular education curriculum. Students with a GIEP must participate in support services to maintain their GIEP status. Services are supported through:

• Participation in the Honors Enrichment Program based on individual strength-based needs
• Courses, IE Periods, and competitions
• Academic planning and career investigation
• Small group and individualized meetings which focus on goal setting, prioritizing, time management, and leadership skills
• Development of individual strengths
• Identification of enrichment opportunities

In this area, an emphasis will be placed on solving a variety of challenging problems through the use of technology tools, materials, and processes. Experiences in this program will give students insights about the world of industry and technology and will enhance their career awareness.

#6932 - ESSENTIALS OF VIDEO PRODUCTION (Grades 9-12)
Semester Course
Academic Level
Students will gain knowledge of the basic production process including pre-production, production, and post-production. The skills include script writing, storyboarding, videography, lighting, sound, journalism and editing a video project. Students will work with industry standard equipment and software and will have the ability to participate in extra-curricular filming opportunities and film festivals. This is a hands-on production course emphasizing aesthetics, creativity, and technical expertise. Projects developed are distributed over student and other community-based media.

#6936 - ANIMATION (Grades 9-12)
Semester Course
Academic Level
Students will use industry standard software to create animated videos. Students will be able to draw their own work or can use stock animation elements to animate for their video projects. We will be creating 2D animations that can be used for games, tv shows, movies, and websites. Students can turn their animations into a film that can be submitted to local film festivals.

#6937—BROADCAST PRODUCTION (Grades 10-12)
Semester Course
Academic Level
This class will allow the students to create content for our morning show and other shows produced by WTVi as well as make movies. Students will be expected to write and produce for their projects. Students in this class can create show concepts and/or work on already existing shows. They will learn all aspects of filmmaking including casting, lighting, sound, writing, directing, and post-production. Films genres will include experimental, narrative, and documentary. This class will also look at the way movies are made by watching and analyzing films throughout history. Student will work in the WTVi studio as well has have remote filming opportunities. Students will work with industry standard equipment and software, will be required to participate in extra-curricular filming opportunities and will have the opportunity to participate in local film festivals.
Prerequisite: Essentials of Video Production

#6938 - PRODUCTION PORTFOLIO I H (Grades 11-12)
Semester Course
Honors Level
Portfolio is a rigorous course of study designed for students who wish to pursue digital communication as a career or focus on an area of broadcast journalism or filmmaking. Students will concentrate upon the areas of their working portfolio that need strengthening or broadening. The course will also provide students with the ability to explore and research their personal vision through supervised study. Students are required to maintain a journal and present a digital portfolio at the end of the quarter. Self-discipline and a willingness to seek new challenges are expected. Adobe Premiere Pro Certification and After Effects Pro Certification may be earned in this class.
Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation

#6939 - PRODUCTION PORTFOLIO II H (Grades 11-12)
Yearlong Course
Honors Level
Portfolio is a rigorous course of study designed for students who wish to pursue digital communication as a career or focus on an area of broadcast journalism or filmmaking. Students will be concentrating on client projects and will create content based on client needs. The course will also provide students with the ability to explore and research their personal vision through supervised study. Students are required to maintain a journal and present a digital portfolio at the end of each quarter. Self-discipline and a willingness to seek new challenges are expected. Adobe Premiere Pro Certification and After Effects Pro Certification may be earned in this class.
Prerequisite: Portfolio I and Teacher Recommendation

#6950 - ROBOTICS: DESIGN, BUILD, AND PROGRAM (Grades 9-12)
Semester Course
Academic Level
This semester course teaches students logic and problem solving using an entertaining approach. Students will design, create, debug, and implement a functional robot to accomplish specific tasks autonomously as well as in a remote-control mode. This course combines Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) to solve challenges provided by the instructor.

#5430 - COMPUTER SCIENCE I (Grades 9-12)
Semester Course
Academic Level
This is a computer course for students who are interested in learning the basics of coding. In this course, students learn how to program in the Python programming language. This course will cover the basics of general high-level programming and look at more advanced programming concepts.
Prerequisite: Algebra I

#5411 - COMPUTER SCIENCE II H (Grades 9-12)
Semester Course
Honors Level
This course is designed for students who have completed either of the Computer Programming courses in either PYTHON or C++, or Computer Science 1. In this course, students will learn the JAVA programming language and how to program using Object-Oriented Design principles. This course will also cover the basics of graphical user interface, or GUI.
Prerequisite is successful completion of the discontinued Python or C++ courses, or Computer Science I. Computer Science II is a course that is available for Dual Credit through Montgomery County Community College.

#5434 - GAME DESIGN PRACTICE AND THEORY (Grades 9-12)
Semester Course
Academic Level
This course introduces the fundamental techniques, concepts, and vocabulary of electronic games and simulation development. Students will explore the historical, social, and cultural effects of electronic games while applying modern game design and development methodologies and principles to create their own game.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of the discontinued Python or C++ courses, or Computer Science I.

#5436 - ANDROID APPLICATION DEVELOPMENT (Grades 9-12)
Semester Course
Academic Level
This is a comprehensive course on how to develop applications for Android phones and tablets targeted for business needs. Students will learn how to utilize the Android SDK with the Java programming language using standard Java developments tools to build applications for distribution via the Android Market. Students will learn how to design mobile interfaces and how to apply mobile technology to solve common business needs. It is highly recommended that students have access to an Android device or virtual machine to complete work outside of class. An Android device is not required for the course.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of the discontinued Python or C++ courses, or Computer Science I.

#5438 - CYBERSECURITY (Grades 9-12)
Semester Course
Academic Level
Cybersecurity is designed to introduce students to cybersecurity concepts and inspire interest in cybersecurity careers. This course does not require any prerequisite knowledge in cybersecurity or networking for students. The focus of instruction will include the implementation and monitoring of security on network and computer systems. Students will investigate strategies to identify and protect against security threats such as malicious actors, eavesdropping, and network attacks. The basics of encryption and logical reasoning will be explored. Hands-on labs in the CYBER.ORG Range provide practice in the configuration and mitigation of system vulnerabilities. Each unit integrates current events and related cyber ethics and law.

#5421 - AP COMPUTER SCIENCE (Grades 11-12)
Yearlong Course
Honors Level (DC)
This course will prepare students for the Advanced Placement Computer Science A exam. The AP exam will be given in the JAVA programming language. Students will cover all the required knowledge for the exam. This course is available with Dual Credit with Montgomery County Community College. AP Computer Science is a course that is available for Dual Credit through Montgomery County Community College.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of the discontinued Advanced Computer Programming in JAVA or Computer Science II.

PROJECT LEAD THE WAY (PLTW) DESCRIPTION
Through Project Lead the Way programs, students develop in-demand, transportable skills – such as problem solving, critical and creative thinking, collaboration, and communication – that they will use both in school and for the rest of their lives, on any career path they take. As PLTW students’ progress through grades K-12, they are empowered to explore career paths, engage in problem solving and process thinking, develop technical knowledge and skills, and build communication skills. All PLTW courses may be available for college credit. If interested, please speak with your instructor.

#6141/#6140 - INTRODUCTION TO ENGINEERING DESIGN (PLTW) (Grades 9-12)
Yearlong Course
Academic/Honors Levels
Students dig deep into the engineering design process, applying math, science, and engineering standards to hands-on projects. They work both individually and in teams to design solutions to a variety of problems using 3-D modeling software and use an engineering notebook to document their work. This course may be available for college credit. If interested, speak with your instructor.
Prerequisite: Algebra 1.

#6151/#6150 - COMPUTER INTEGRATED MANUFACTURING (PLTW) (Grades 10-12)
Yearlong Course
Academic/Honors Levels
Computer Integrated Manufacturing is one of Project Lead the Way’s specialization courses that was designed to further develop the merger of our student’s knowledge and use of computer aided design (CAD), computer aided manufacturing (CAM), computer numerical controlled machines (CNC), and automated guided vehicles (AGV). Additionally, the students in this course will have more opportunities to design, build, and program prototypes and functional products in the Wissahickon FABLAB through the exploration of manufacturing processes and systems. The course will consist of four major units: Principles of Manufacturing, Manufacturing Processes, Elements of Automation, and Integration of Manufacturing Elements, as well as the problem-based, hands-on application of knowledge. This course may be available for college credit. If interested, please speak with the instructor.
Prerequisite: Introduction to Engineering Design.

The goal of the World Language Department is to provide instruction at the honors and academic levels, whereby students develop the knowledge and skills to communicate in the languages they are studying. As a result of this instruction, students will also develop an understanding and an appreciation of cultures different from their own. This additional knowledge, linguistic proficiency and cultural awareness will prepare students to participate more fully in an increasingly global society. College entrance requirements for world languages vary. Some colleges require a minimum of two years of high school study for entrance to certain programs, while others require three or more years of study for entrance. Requirements also vary depending on a student's proposed undergraduate major. It is recommended that both students and parents work closely with their guidance counselors in determining student world language needs for college admission requirements.

#4090 - ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE – BEGINNER (Grades 9-12)
Yearlong Course
Academic Level
This beginning-level course for non-native speakers of English will focus on the development of life communication skills. It is for students who have had little or no previous experience using spoken or written English. Basic understanding, pronunciation, speaking, writing, and reading will be stressed. Individual needs will be provided for the course. English credit is awarded for this course.

#4091 - ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE – INTERMEDIATE (Grades 9-12)
Yearlong Course
Academic Level
This course will stress the refinement of communication skills for non-native speakers of English. Students will also develop their language skills as they relate to the other courses which they are studying. This course may be taken more than once.

#4094 - ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE – ADVANCED (Grades 9-12)
Yearlong Course
Academic Level
Students will continue to focus on English grammar, vocabulary, writing, reading comprehension and listening skills. Students at this level typically speak and understand English at a higher proficiency level but need to refine their writing skills.

#4095 - ELA for ELD STUDENTS 9/10 (Grades 9-10)
Yearlong Course
Academic Level
This course is centered around the 9^th and 10^th grade Pennsylvania Common Core Standards. Taught by a dual-certified English teacher and ELD Program Specialist, this course focuses on the development of reading and writing skills at the beginner level of English language proficiency. Students will read a variety texts and genres. Students will write in a variety of genres. Instruction will include appropriate ELD support to advance learning and language acquisition.

#4096 – ELA for ELD STUDENTS 11/12 (Grades 11-12)
Yearlong Course
Academic Level
This course is centered around the 11^th and 12^th grade Pennsylvania Common Core Standards. Taught by a dual-certified English teacher and ELD Program Specialist, this course focuses on the development of reading and writing skills at the beginner level of English language proficiency. Students will read a variety texts and genres. Students will write in a variety of genres. Instruction will include appropriate ELD support to advance learning and language acquisition.

#4102 - FRENCH I (Grades 9-12)
Yearlong Course
Academic Level
This is a course for students who are beginning their study of French or who need additional reinforcement from their previous study of the language. It is an appropriate entry point for students who are studying French as their second world language. Skills in understanding, speaking, reading, and writing French are developed through acquisition of vocabulary and grammar of the language. The culture of the French-speaking world is also studied.

#4122/#4131 - FRENCH II (Grades 9-12)
Yearlong Course
Academic/Honors Levels
French will be used extensively in most activities. Listening and speaking are continued in classroom situations, conversations, and in the use of authentic listening and speaking resources. New grammar, vocabulary and themes are introduced and reinforced through in-class and out-of-class assignments and activities. The students will use French as a communicative tool in a variety of ways to meet the needs of all learners.
Prerequisite for FRENCH II: Grade of C or better in French I and/or teacher recommendation. Prerequisite for FRENCH II H: Grade of B or higher in French I and/or teacher recommendation.

#4161/#4151 - FRENCH III (Grades 10-12)
Yearlong Course
Academic/Honors Levels
The development of listening and speaking skills is continued through classroom conversation, dialogues, speeches, and the use of authentic resources. Emphasis will be placed on the study of more advanced language structures. New structures and vocabulary will be introduced through teacher instruction, authentic reading passages, and through use of authentic listening and viewing resources. Students will read, discuss, and analyze reading selections to reinforce language proficiency. Writing skills will develop gradually throughout the course. Study of the culture of French-speaking countries will continue and expand. The French language will be used extensively in all activities. Students enrolled in FRENCH III H may be eligible for Dual Credit.
Prerequisite for FRENCH III: Grade of C or better in French II and/or teacher recommendation. Prerequisite for FRENCH III H: Grade of B or better in French II H and/or teacher recommendation.

#4181/#4171 - FRENCH IV (Grades 11-12)
Yearlong Course
Academic/Honors Levels
The course combines a variety of advanced-level listening, speaking, reading, and writing activities. Grammar and culture will also be studied at a more advanced level. Selected literary selections will be read, discussed, and analyzed. Students will have the opportunity to use skills developed in the previous courses in a variety of authentic and culturally appropriate activities and scenarios. Study of the culture of French-speaking countries will continue and expand. The academic class will be conducted predominantly in French whereas the honors level course will be conducted exclusively in French. 
Prerequisite for FRENCH IV: Grade of C or better in French III and teacher recommendation. Prerequisite for FRENCH IV H: Grade of B or better in French III H and/or teacher recommendation.

#4192 - ADVANCED PLACEMENT FRENCH LANGUAGE AND CULTURE (Grade 12)
Yearlong Course
Honors Level
This course emphasizes the use of the language for active communication as students continue to increase their proficiency in each of the four language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The course objective is the development of the following competencies: having a strong command of vocabulary and structure; understanding the spoken target language in various conversational situations; reading and understanding authentic sources without assistance and fluently and accurately expressing ideas in French.
Prerequisite: Grade of B or better in French IV H and/or teacher recommendation.

#4302 - GERMAN I (Grades 9-12)
Yearlong Course
Academic Level
This is a course for students who are beginning their study of German or who need additional reinforcement from previous study of the language. It is the appropriate entry point for students who are studying German as their second world language. Skills in understanding, speaking, reading, and writing German are developed through the acquisition of vocabulary and grammar of the language. The culture of the German-speaking world is also studied.

#4331 - GERMAN II H (Grades 9-12)
Yearlong Course
Honors Level
The German language will be used extensively in all activities. Listening and speaking are continued in classroom situations, conversations, and in the use of authentic listening and speaking resources. New grammar, vocabulary and themes are introduced and reinforced through in-class and out-of-class assignments and activities. The students will use German as a communicative tool in a variety of different ways to meet the needs of all learners.
Prerequisite: Grade of B or better in German I and/or teacher recommendation.

#4351 - GERMAN III H (Grades 10-12)
Yearlong Course
Honors Level (DC)
The development of listening and speaking skills is continued through classroom conversation, dialogues, speeches, and the use of multimedia material. Emphasis will be placed on the study of advanced-level language structures. New structures and vocabulary will be introduced through teacher instruction, authentic reading passages, and through use of authentic listening and viewing resources. Students will read, discuss, and analyze reading selections to reinforce language proficiency. Writing skills will develop gradually throughout the course. Study of the culture of German-speaking countries will continue and expand. The German language will be used extensively in all activities.
Prerequisite: Grade of B or better in German II H and/or teacher recommendation.  

#4371 - GERMAN IV H (Grades 11-12)
Yearlong Course
Honors Level (DC)
The course combines a variety of advanced-level listening, speaking, reading, and writing activities. Grammar and culture will also be studied at an advanced level. Selected literary selections will be read, discussed, and analyzed. Students will have the opportunity to use skills developed in previous courses in a variety of authentic and culturally appropriate activities and scenarios. The class will be conducted almost exclusively in German.
Prerequisite: Grade of B or better in German III H and/or teacher recommendation. 

#4392 - ADVANCED PLACEMENT GERMAN LANGUAGE AND CULTURE (Grade 12)
Yearlong Course
Honors Level
This course emphasizes the use of the language for active communication as students continue to increase their proficiency in each of the four language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The course objective is the development of the following competencies: having a strong command of vocabulary and structure; understanding the spoken target language in various conversational situations; reading and understanding authentic sources without assistance and fluently and accurately expressing ideas in German.
Prerequisite: Grade of B or better in German IV H and/or teacher recommendation.

North Montco Technical Career Center (NMTCC) offers 23 programs within 7 cluster areas including: Construction Trades, Cosmetology, Culinary Arts, Engineering/Manufacturing, Health & Human Services, Power & Transportation and Visual Communications. The school serves approximately 1000 students from 5 surrounding school districts. Students can attend the school as either part time or full-time students. In addition to technical training, NMTCC provides academic courses to the full-time students within all eight clusters. 

HONORS OPTION FOR ALL 12^th GRADE CAREER & TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION (CTE) COURSES AT NMTCC:  North Montco Technical Career Center (NMTCC) students have the opportunity to apply to enroll in the 12th grade Honors level course of their CTE program. The Honors course is for 12^th grade students who have demonstrated a high level of interest and achievement in their program and who aspire to an advanced level of learning. The Honors level of the course is challenging, more demanding, provides multiple opportunities for students to take greater responsibility for their learning, and has requirements beyond those of the standard CTE courses within their program. 12^th grade students in the Honors course will be exposed to industry-related advanced work, rigorous study of CTE subject matter with embedded academic content, and practical application of knowledge and skills to work-based situations. Students must meet the required prerequisites (see further information provided by NMTCC) and submit a completed Academic Teacher Recommendation form during their 11th grade year to be considered for the Honors level coursework in their NMTCC CTE programming.

#9697 – ALLIED HEALTH
Allied Health is designed for college preparatory students who are interested in pursuing a medical or health science career after high school. The program is unique in that it is based in a hospital. Students enrolled in this program will report daily to Jefferson Lansdale Hospital where they will receive theoretical and technical instruction. The Allied Health program is a great way for students to test their dreams of becoming healthcare professionals. This program will take students into major departments of the hospital.
Criteria for Admission—Students should apply for admission while in 11th grade. Only 36 total students (12 per session) will be accepted into this program each year. GPA, attendance, conduct records, a personal essay, and letters of recommendation are primary considerations for acceptance. Performance in an interview may be evaluated as well. Students must have signed approval from a science teacher, guidance counselor, and parent or guardian. A physical exam, negative two-step tuberculosis skin test or TB blood test, proof of Hepatitis B vaccination, and a cleared criminal record check must be obtained before entrance into the program. A flu shot is required in the fall when the vaccine is available. Students are responsible for providing their own transportation.
Students will be required to purchase items for this program at an approximate cost of $150.

#9696 - BIOMEDICAL TECHNOLOGY
Biomedical Technology is a diverse and challenging field with excellent opportunities for career growth in pharmaceutical and biomedical technology companies, as well as academic and medical research. This unique program is designed to prepare college-bound students with both a theoretical and practical (i.e., hands-on) knowledge of state-of-the-art tools used in biomedical technology laboratories.
These include molecular and cellular biological techniques and use of various laboratory instrumentation with the goal of training students in cell culture, recombinant DNA technology, protein purification, electrophoresis, PCR and much more. Biomedical technology provides students with a head-start in developing skills needed to contribute to a research program upon entry into college.
In partnership with Montgomery County Community College, this highly selective junior/senior course is offered at the Biomedical Technology facility located at NMTCC. Students earn dual-enrollment credits for an introductory survey course in Biotechnology (BIT120) and an Intro to Anatomy and Physiology Course (BIO130). The application process includes a personal interview, a visit to the Biomedical Technology laboratory (recommended), a letter of recommendation from a science teacher, and submission of a completed application form with a high school transcript. With limited capacity, acceptance into the program is determined and communicated in the spring. All students accepted into Biomedical Technology are required to provide their own transportation to NMTCC.
Prerequisites: Strong grades in Biology, Chemistry, Algebra 1 and 2. Students will be required to purchase items for this program at an approximate cost of $75.

#9600 CONSTRUCTION TRADES CLUSTER

CONSTRUCTION CARPENTRY
Skilled carpenters are in great demand! The Construction Carpentry program provides thorough instruction through hands-on projects and various shop demonstrations. Do not be afraid to try the Construction Carpentry program even if you have never picked up a tool before. The program covers instruction in the safe and proper use of hand and power tools and will help build your foundation for success. Students will be required to purchase items for this program at an approximate cost of $300.

HEATING, VENTILATION AND AIR CONDITIONING (HVAC)
The HVAC program consists of basic to advanced instruction in both the installation and servicing of residential systems. Students are trained in electrical principles, plumbing, oil and gas heating, air conditioning, heat pumps and basic refrigeration systems. NMTCC’s HVAC program has been granted accreditation by HVAC Excellence. Students will be required to purchase items for this program at an approximate cost of $250.

ELECTRICAL TRADES
Experienced electricians are in serious demand. Students in the Electrical Trades program learn about residential and commercial/industrial wiring and low-voltage systems, involving communication voice data and security systems. The program consists of instruction in electrical AC-DC theory, National Electric Code, wiring methods and industrial applications. Students will be required to purchase items for this program at an approximate cost of $150.

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE & RENOVATION
Property Maintenance & Renovation prepares students for career paths and employment opportunities in the construction industry through technical knowledge and skills in the building, repair, and general maintenance of residential building and other structures. The program provides instruction in many of the construction trades including structural carpentry, finish carpentry, millwork, plumbing, electricity, masonry, concrete, tile setting, installing hardware, heating, ventilation, waterproofing, roofing, siding, drywall, painting, regular tool and machine maintenance, environmental control systems, and record keeping. Students learn to use hand and power tools, construction materials, estimating, blueprint reading, and construction safety. Graduates of this program are prepared for employment in construction fields or may pursue specialized training through an apprenticeship and/or postsecondary education.

#9610 COSMETOLOGY CLUSTER
Cosmetology students learn the competencies and skills needed to pass the Pennsylvania State Board of Cosmetology practical and written licensing exams through a program that meets the state-required hours of instruction. Students must complete 1250 hours of instruction, with at least a 75% grade average, before they are eligible to take the State Board of Cosmetology license examination. After completing 900 hours, students can apply for the state exam. The state will not issue a license until 1250 hours have been completed. The program covers instruction in a) cosmetology (hair care), b) esthetics (skin care and make-up), c) nail technology, and d) salon management. Students apply theory and skills and strengthen competencies through hands-on experience which includes a salon open to the community. All cosmetology hours expire four years from the enrollment date. If 1250 hours of instruction are not completed by a student’s graduation date, hours will need to be accrued independently at a private institution in order to obtain State Board of Cosmetology certification for Pennsylvania. Students will be required to purchase items for this program at an approximate cost of $575.

#9620 CULINARY ARTS CLUSTER

CULINARY ARTS
From prep cook to executive chef, the culinary industry offers a world of career possibilities. NMTCC’s Culinary Arts program is nationally certified as an American Culinary Federation Education Foundation (ACFEF) secondary certified program. Learning takes place in the classroom, kitchen, bakery, and restaurant. Students completing the program may enter the workforce or continue their education in college. Students will be required to purchase items for this program at an approximate cost of $200.

BAKING AND PASTRY ARTS
The Baking and Pastry Arts Program strives to teach students the skills they will need to be successful both in industry and in continuing education. All of our products are handmade from scratch and solely produced by students. With knowledge of mixing methods, equipment uses, and safety practices, the student will have an upper hand for entering the pastry industry. Students will be required to purchase items for this program at an approximate cost of $200.

#9630 ENGINEERING/MANUFACTURING DESIGN CLUSTER

COMPUTER INTEGRATED MACHINING
The Computer Integrated Machining course of study is designed to prepare the interested student for varied manufacturing opportunities. The demands for the highly skilled craftsman are many. From the Machine Operator to the Toolmaker, from the Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Operator to the CNC Programmer, all start with the experience and training found in NMTCC’s complete precision machining lab.
The program is nationally certified by the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS). It emphasizes the safe and proper operation of metalworking machine tools such as lathes, milling machines, precision grinders, and drill presses. The course also includes an introduction to layout and blueprint reading and instruction in computer numerical control (CNC) machining. Students will be required to purchase items for this program at an approximate cost of $75.

MECHATRONICS
The Mechatronics program offered at NMTCC provides a synergistic approach to the understanding of the principles in the engineering field. The program focuses on mechatronics engineering technology, which is a multidisciplinary field where workers design, troubleshoot, maintain, and repair sophisticated automated equipment through a systems approach. Students will perform activities and obtain fundamental knowledge in the following areas: electrical, electronics, robotics, mechanical systems, fluid power systems, programmable logic controllers, control systems and mechatronics. Engineers and technicians with training Mechatronic systems have the greatest career mobility across technical disciplines. Students will be required to purchase items for this program at an approximate cost of $45.

WELDING AND FABRICATION
Welding and Fabrication students learn the skills and techniques necessary for success in a career that values well trained, experienced workers. They learn MIG and TIG welding as well as gas welding and about the operation of welding and metal fabrication machinery. Students will be required to purchase items for this program at an approximate cost of $250.

#9650 HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES CLUSTER

HEALTH SCIENCES
The Health Sciences program introduces students to essential skills in the healthcare field, preparing them for various medical careers. Students will explore a variety of healthcare environments while learning about patient care, medical terminology, and the role of healthcare professionals. In partnership with Montgomery County Community College, students can earn up to six (6) dual enrollment credits. Students will be required to purchase items for this program at an approximate cost of $200.

PROTECTIVE SERVICES
Protective Services program will provide students with experience in the general public service occupation cluster. After covering a broad curriculum, students will specialize in several aspects of emergency medical service, police science, security, firefighting, and other related occupational fields. Students are encouraged to pursue post-secondary training for more career opportunities. Community service is also a requirement of this program. A cleared Criminal Record Check must be obtained prior to entrance into the program. Students will be required to purchase items for this program at an approximate cost of $200.

SPORTS REHABILITATION AND PHYSICAL THERAPY
In the Sports Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy program, students will learn essential skills directly related to Athletic Training and Physical Therapy career paths. From designing safe and effective exercise prescriptions, conducting individual exercise programs, and fitness testing, students will be prepared for employment in a wide variety of settings that include but are not limited to, athletic teams, hospitals, corporate wellness programs, strength and conditioning, clinical rehabilitation programs and fitness clubs. In addition, the program serves as a strong foundation for students wishing to pursue advanced degrees in the field of exercise science or enter professional disciplines such as physical or occupational therapy.

#9670 POWER & TRANSPORTATION CLUSTER

AUTOMOTIVE COLLISION REPAIR
The Auto Collision Repair Program is focused on high tech training necessary to diagnose and repair the finish coatings, cosmetic features, structure, and complex components/systems in today’s automobiles. Any student successfully completing this program, or a segment of specialized instruction, can expect to be prepared for employment in this industry, or pursue advanced technical training at the post-secondary level and be ready for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification. Students will be required to purchase items for this program at an approximate cost of $100.

AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY
In accordance with ASE and AYES standards, the Automotive Technology program provides current curriculum, instructional materials, and equipment that are needed to reinforce knowledge, skills, and attitudes appropriate to industry needs. Students will be required to purchase items for this program at an approximate cost of $100.

DIESEL TRUCK TECHNOLOGY
As the trucking industry continues to expand, the demand is growing for mechanics and technicians to repair and maintain diesel engines. Medium/Heavy Duty trucks and equipment require educated and experienced technicians for their maintenance and repair. Upon completion of the Diesel Truck Technology program, students may secure employment as entry-level technicians or advance their education and training. This program follows the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation/Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (NATEF/ASE) standards for Medium/Heavy Duty Diesel Truck technology. Students will be required to purchase items for this program at an approximate cost of $100.

RECREATIONAL POWER EQUIPMENT
From recreational vehicles and equipment such as snowmobiles, jet skis and motorcycles, to lawn and garden equipment, such as mowers and chain saws, small engines power many machines that make our lives easier and more enjoyable. The Recreational Power Equipment program is the study of “how and why” machinery operates along with the “whys” of machinery failure and the learning of “how to” diagnose the problems and make proper, efficient repairs. Students will be able to specialize in different areas of repairing and maintaining this equipment. Students will be required to purchase items for this program at an approximate cost of $100.

#9690 VISUAL COMMUNICATIONS CLUSTER

ADVERTISING DESIGN
The Advertising Design Program offers instruction encompassing a broad spectrum of art and design related occupations. Students are introduced to the tools and techniques needed to become successful advertising artists and designers. Growth in illustration, design and other techniques will create a demand for skilled artists far in excess of qualified workers. The core curriculum focuses on advertising design, digital imaging, illustration, and the principles of creating good advertising. Hands-on learning will provide students with the background needed to develop a viable portfolio. Students will be required to purchase items for this program at an approximate cost of $50.

GRAPHIC ARTS
The Graphic Arts program is a PrintEd certified program that offers instruction encompassing a broad spectrum of design and print related occupations. The major areas of study in the graphic arts program include graphic design and layout, Adobe Creative Cloud, typography, offset printing operation, bindery, document management/quick copy center operations and digital photography. Students will be required to purchase items for this program at an approximate cost of $75.

INTERNET TECHNOLOGIES
The Internet Technologies program is an instructional program that prepares individuals to apply technical skills in support and design of computer systems and networks. The program also provides a technical foundation for college-bound students pursuing a career in information technology and provides training for students to acquire several industry certifications. The course includes the Test Out and Cisco Academies, which provide training in computer networking, database design, computer system support, computer repair and service, and other IT subjects. In partnership with Montgomery County Community College, students can earn up to nine (9) dual credits. Students will be required to purchase items for this program at an approximate cost of $50.

SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING
Social media specialists and content creators communicate with the public through social media platforms that allow users to create and share content online. They run their employers’ social media accounts, plan, execute and monitor social media strategies that help drive sales, brand awareness, and customer engagement. They create posts on social networks, manage general content, oversee creative design, and write posts according to a brand's voice. These workers post content—such as images, text, or videos—to spark interest in a topic that relates to the brand as a whole. In addition, social media specialists and content creators follow conversations and interact with the public online. Students will also learn metrics, analytics, and the importance of social media to companies and brands. The Social Media Marketing program will offer students the opportunity to utilize their math, English, artistic, and creative thinking skills and incorporate them into a career field of high interest, which they engage on a daily basis.

ADDITIONAL STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

School-to-career learning programs at NMTCC combine quality education with worksite learning so students are given the opportunity to apply the valuable skills they are learning. The school-to-Career office can assist with creating a resume and developing interviewing skills. This office also provides job postings for students who want to gain real-life, on-the-job experience before graduating from high school. One of NMTCC’s School-to-Career programs may be the opportunity you need to further your career goal.
The programs available to students at NMTCC include Internship and Cooperative Education (Co-Op).

INTERNSHIP (NON-PAID)
Internships provide students with the opportunity to spend time at local businesses and non-profit organizations. Internships also provide valuable, real-life experience, build interpersonal and workplace skills, and enable students to put classroom theory into practice.

COOPERATIVE EDUCATION (CO-OP)
Cooperative Education
A culminating Capstone paid work experience for students in 11th and 12th grades who have secured the recommendation of their technical instructor. Recommended students have the opportunity to obtain real work experience and to practice the specific technical skills they have learned.
Features:

• Open to 11th and 12th grade students who possess entry-level skills.
• All academics are usually taken at the sending school during morning periods.
• Students are employed in their technical field in the afternoon for a set amount of days determined by their technical program instructors.
• Students still attend North Montco Technical Career Center on those non-workdays to continue with their technical education. They can also meet with the Co-op Coordinator to discuss any work concerns.

SOAR – STUDENTS OCCUPATIONALLY AND ACADEMICALLY READY
A SOAR program is a Pennsylvania Department of Education approved, Career & Technical Education Program that credits skills and tasks learned at the high school level to a post-secondary (college) degree, diploma, or certificate program. SOAR programs prepare today’s students for tomorrow’s high demand and high wage careers.
To view current advanced credit opportunities articulated with post-secondary institutions, go to Search for Equivalencies under the Search button at www.collegetransfer.net, select PA Bureau of Career and Technical Education at the “From” drop down menu.