Course Descriptions
Business Education and Computer Science
COMPUTER APPLICATIONS
This semester-long course is an introduction to the computer which includes historical development. Students learn to use various software including Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel. This course is required for graduation, but may be challenged by exam.
— 5 Semester Periods
ADVANCED COMPUTER APPLICATIONS
This semester‑long course builds on foundational computer skills to give high school students advanced proficiency in key software applications and emerging cloud‑based tools. Through hands‑on projects and real‑world scenarios, learners will automate tasks, analyze and visualize data, create rich multimedia content, and collaborate effectively online. By course end, students will be prepared to apply these skills in academic research, personal projects, and workplace environments.
— 5 Semester Periods
ACCOUNTING I
A study of business transactions and their classification in a double-entry system using both manual and computer entry. A study of the complete cycle for single proprietorship and partnerships.
— 10 Semester Periods
English as a Second Language
ESL READING AND VOCABULARY
The ESL Reading course is designed for the high-Beginning to the Advanced-Intermediate ESL student. A wide variety of print and multimedia material is used to expand the reader’s general vocabulary and knowledge of North American culture. Decoding, comprehension, and vocabulary skills are taught and practiced, with an emphasis on individualization. Students are also given opportunities to practice for the TOEFL.
— 10 Semester Periods
ESL LISTENING AND SPEAKING
This ESL course gives students practice in common conversational and classroom listening and speaking tasks. Students will develop North American cultural awareness, conversational fluency, and classroom discussion skills. Students also engage in American accent training and practice. As in all ESL classes, practice time is given for taking the TOEFL.
— 10 Semester Periods
ESL WRITING AND GRAMMAR
This year-long course is designed to integrate grammar theory with practical writing techniques. The grammar focus is on context, practice, and application. Students will learn and practice the full writing process, writing sentences, paragraphs, and essays using the rhetorical strategies of narration, description, explanation, and persuasion. They will move from conversational to academic vocabulary development, with an emphasis on the syntax of Standard American English. Preparation for the TOEFL is included each semester.
— 10 Semester Periods
Foreign Language
SPANISH I
Spanish one is a thorough orientation and introduction to the fundamental differences between English and Spanish pronunciation, basic grammar, and culture. The emphasis is in speaking communication developed through active student participation during each class session with the help of visual aids, varied activities, and teacher evaluation.
— 10 Semester Periods
SPANISH II
Spanish two further develops of listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in communication. A more comprehensive understanding of Spanish pronunciation, grammatical usage, and culture is presented.
— 10 Semester Periods
Language Arts
ENGLISH I
This course will introduce students to an understanding and appreciation of literature. Students complete daily focus activities associated based on the selected reading. Longer, more developed assignments cover creative, narrative, persuasive, and expository writing. Students will also improve their public speaking skills through theme project presentations. Students will also participate in class discussions and the reading of two plays.
— 10 Semester Periods
ENGLISH II
In this course, students delve into a vibrant mix of culturally diverse classic and contemporary literature selections. They read a wide variety of genres, including short stories, nonfiction, poetry, drama, and humor. Writing and grammar activities are integrated with the literature. Writing activities include daily freewriting (during which students make connections between literature and life) and process writing (which the students use in narrative, descriptive, explanatory, and persuasive compositions.) Continued practice of correct grammar, usage, and mechanics aid students in more effective writing and revision. Students will incorporate new vocabulary words into their daily lives and practice precise word choice in written and oral presentations. And they will create a short research report, learning to avoid plagiarism and, instead, demonstrate original thinking in their research and writing.
— 10 Semester Periods
ENGLISH III
This course looks at the significant authors, ideas, movements, and trends that helped to shape our American culture from the discovery of America to the present. This class also allows students to write using the four major types of writing, including a significant research paper. Students will improve their writing skills with daily and weekly assignments. Students will read selected works and will write responses to the various reading assignments. Class discussions help direct the students to the connections between the works, society, and themselves. Students also give six (6) oral presentations to the class.
— 10 Semester Periods
ENGLISH IV
This year-long course focuses on major authors, ideas, movements, and works of literature from Great Britain. Through the study of various works students will explore the different themes presented, engage in class discussions and produce both academic writing and creative projects that demonstrate critical thinking and each student’s best efforts. Coursework will be comprised predominately of reading selections, writing assignments and a variety of presentation opportunities.
— 10 Semester Periods
AP LANGUAGE & COMPOSITION
This year-long course engages students in becoming skilled readers of prose written in a variety of periods, disciplines, and rhetorical contexts, and in becoming skilled writers who compose for a variety of purposes. Through intensive study of nonfiction texts—essays, speeches, letters, memoirs, journalism, and multimedia sources—students learn to analyze how authors use rhetoric and structure to achieve their purposes. Writing assignments emphasize expository, analytical, and argumentative essays, including synthesis of multiple sources.
— 10 Semester Periods
SPEECH & DEBATE
This year‑long elective develops students’ oral communication, critical thinking, and persuasive abilities through structured speeches and competitive debate formats. Learners will research current issues, craft arguments, and deliver presentations in a variety of contexts—from prepared extemporaneous speeches to impromptu challenges. Emphasis is placed on audience analysis, rhetorical strategies, and ethical advocacy, equipping students with confidence and clarity for academic, professional, and civic engagement.
— 10 Semester Periods
Mathematics
PRE-ALGEBRA
ALGEBRA I
This course offers algebra with applications and connections to the real world. Properties and applications of rational numbers, equations, inequalities, polynomials, factoring, rational expressions, functions, graphing linear equations, linear inequalities, systems of open sentences, radical expressions, quadratics, introduction to statistics, probability, and trigonometry are all studied. A scientific calculator is required. Some computer graphing is experienced.
— 10 Semester Periods. Prerequisite: Students must demonstrate satisfactory performance on the algebra aptitude test before entering Algebra I.
GEOMETRY
This course offers geometry with applications and connections to the real world. The language of geometry, reasoning and introduction to proof, parallels, congruent triangles, quadrilaterals, similarity, right triangles and trigonometry, circles, polygons and area, surface area, volume, loci, and transformations are all studied. A scientific calculator is required. Computer use of Geometer’s SketchPad will be experienced.
— 10 Semester Periods. Prerequisite: “C” or higher average in Algebra I.
ALGEBRA II
A more penetrating and complete study is given of the topics introduced in Algebra I along with applications and connections to the real world. Linear equations, inequalities, relations and functions; conics; polynomial functions, rational polynomial expressions; exponential and logarithmic functions; sequences and series; probability and statistics; trigonometric functions, identities, and equations are studied. A scientific calculator is required. Computer graphing is experienced during this course. The CLEP examination is offered to secure college credit.
— 10 Semester Periods. Prerequisite: Algebra I and Geometry with a “C” or higher in each.
AP PRECALCULUS
This course emphasizes trigonometry functions, their graphs, inverses, identities, and equations. There is a study of vectors, parametric equations, polar coordinates, and complex numbers. Analytic geometry is then studied including linear relations, functions, systems of equations, inequalities, nature of graphs, polynomial and rational functions, and conics. An introduction to calculus is given studying limits, derivatives, and integrals. Computer graphing is done. A scientific calculator is required (graphing scientific calculator – optional).
— 10 Semester Periods. Prerequisite: “B” average in Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II.
AP CALCULUS
This year-long course introduces students to the major concepts of differential and integral calculus, emphasizing both procedural fluency and conceptual understanding. Through exploration of limits, derivatives, integrals, and the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus, learners will develop powerful tools for modeling real‑world phenomena in physics, economics, biology, and beyond. The course balances analytical techniques with applications, preparing students for success on the AP Exam and in future STEM coursework.
— 10 Semester Periods
AP STATISTICS
This year-long course introduces students to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. Emphasis is placed on understanding variability and patterns in data through both graphical and numerical methods, designing and conducting surveys and experiments, and using probability to anticipate what the data should look like under a given model. Through real‑world applications, students develop statistical reasoning skills and are prepared for the AP Exam and college‑level coursework.
— 10 Semester Periods
Performing Arts/Fine Arts
ART I
Anyone can draw! During this one-semester class, students will grow as artists by practicing drawing and painting skills and techniques. Students will study the Elements and Principles of Art and will learn to incorporate these components into their own pieces. The focus of this class is primarily hands-on with emphasis given to drawing and painting. Students will explore a variety of mediums, including pencil, charcoal, pen and ink, scratchboard, watercolor, and acrylic. Students work in-class and outside of class, with Artist Escapes and Weekly Sketches due each week. Participation in a culminating Art show is expected.
— 5 Semester Periods
CHOIR
A choral organization that prepares and performs both sacred and secular music. It is open to all students with a desire to sing and/or develop choral singing skills. Emphasis is placed on efficient vocal production and sight singing. Though open to all students, an audition is required to determine voice assignment and sight singing ability. One practice period weekly outside of group rehearsals is required of all members. Students are expected to stay enrolled for one complete semester.
— 5 Semester Periods
OCEANAIRES
A touring choral group that performs sacred and secular repertoire. Membership is by invitation only subject to audition by the choral teacher. Three additional individual practice periods are required of all members per week. Members must be concurrently enrolled in Choir. In addition to the elements emphasized in choir, emphasis is also placed on choral blend and musicianship. Students are required to stay enrolled in the class for the complete school year.
— 10 Semester Periods. Prerequisite: One year of high school choir.
BAND
An instrumental organization that prepares both secular and sacred music. It is open to students with a desire to learn to play a concert band instrument. No previous band experience is required. Daily practice outside of group rehearsals is required of all members.
— 5 Semester Periods
WESTWINDS
A select instrumental organization used as a touring concert band group. Membership is by invitation only, subject to audition. Opportunities to play in small chamber ensembles (i.e. woodwind quintet, brass quintet) within Westwinds are available. Students chosen to be in this organization are required to stay with the group for the complete school year. Three practice periods per week outside of group rehearsals are required. Concurrent enrollment in Band may also be required at the discretion of the band teacher.
— 10 Semester Periods
JAZZ BAND
Jazz Ensemble is a performance‑based course that immerses students in the study and practice of jazz styles, repertoire, and improvisation techniques. Through rehearsal and performance of Big Band and small‑combo literature, learners develop musicianship, ensemble sensitivity, and creative expression. Emphasis is placed on listening, improvisation, jazz theory, and the historical and cultural contexts that shaped this uniquely American art form.
— 5 Semester Periods
Physical Education and Health
HEALTH
This course emphasizes consumer and environmental health, diet, exercise, general disease prevention, and body care. The student will be able to apply these concepts to daily living.
— 5 Semester Periods. Required for graduation.
PE I
This course is an introduction of the fundamental skills and physical conditioning needed in various sports and team activities. The course also emphasizes lifetime fitness and conditioning.
— 10 Semester Periods. Required for all freshmen.
PE II
A course designed to develop skill, coordination, and knowledge in a variety of sports activities. The course also emphasizes individual fitness and conditioning, which is tested each quarter.
— 10 Semester Periods. Required for all sophomores.
PE III - RECREATION
A general physical education class graded on participation rather than skill. A variety of recreational games are rotated throughout the quarter. Individual fitness and conditioning are emphasized and tested quarterly.
— 10 Semester Periods. This class is for juniors and seniors only and fulfills the third year P.E. requirement.
PE III - FITNESS
A course designed to improve cardiovascular and muscular fitness through weight and circuit training.
— 10 Semester Periods. This class is for juniors and seniors only and fulfills the third year P.E. requirement.
PE III - LIFETIME SPORTS
A course including instruction and practice in the following “carry-over” sports: softball, golf, tennis, volleyball, badminton, swimming, and pickleball.
— 10 Semester Periods. This class is for juniors and seniors only and fulfills the third year P.E. requirement.
Religion
FOUNDATIONS OF CHRISTIANITY
“What’s it All About” (Biblical Survey of Christianity in Global Context) How could One Man so impact the Human story, that Time itself is split into 2 parts? We talk in terms of before He came (BC) and after He was born (AD). That is the mystery and miracle of Jesus the Christ. We will survey basic Christian tenets, history, and passions. There have been many great religious leaders throughout human history and we will reflect on their input as well. What can we learn from Gandhi, Buddha, Abraham Lincoln, da Vinci, Einstein, Mother Teresa, and other prominent figures throughout the ages? What about the philosophical structures of other religions? How do Muslims view the practical religion? What does it mean for a Sikh to practice their rituals? What impact has the Buddhist way of thinking impacted Oriental culture and customs? What answers to the human questions regarding purpose, meaning, and existence does Christianity offer? These are the thoughts for our quest. These are what will guide us as we seek to understand the dialogue Christianity has with the rest of human existence.
— 10 Semester Periods
RELIGION I
God: The I Am – an exploration of God’s existence, who He is, what He is like, and how we can have a real relationship with Him. God on a Cross – God’s response to the problem of sin was to send Jesus, the ultimate gift to humankind. Through Jesus’ humble birth, His childhood, baptism, temptation, ministry in the Passion Week, and His death and resurrection, we come to see a loving Father who gives all as a result of His love for us. God Gifts – God has chosen to lavish His love upon us through many gifts. Through a deeper understanding of the gift of creation, we can appreciate and defend a creationist worldview. In looking at the Sabbath throughout history, and how God has sought to restore it for His people, we truly come to appreciate this gift. God’s gift of grace as seen through Old Testament stories shows us a loving God who forgives in spite of failure. When we view our lives in light of who we truly are (God’s sons and daughters), this changes the way we see ourselves and others. These gifts illustrate God’s desire to have an intimate and unique relationship with us.
— 10 Semester Periods
RELIGION II
The God-Choice – God has pursued His chosen people throughout history, yet repeatedly they have chosen the world above Him. In the Old Testament stories of Hosea, David and Ruth, we see the characteristics of individuals who lived their lives after God’s own heart. God’s Heart – Jesus shared many profound, eternal truths while on this earth. These messages can encourage, inspire and draw us closer to His heart. Sharing God – The birth of the early church brought challenges and wonder as the Holy Spirit was poured onto people committed to living after God’s own heart. Jesus’ followers were empowered with His message, and shared it passionately, despite the consequences. With the Holy Spirit empowering our lives, we too can share God’s messages with the world. God in My World – When we are living after God’s own heart, connected to Jesus, our lives, and the ways in which we relate to the world around us change. Our relationship with God will determine things such as: our prayer life, Bible study, how we view God’s law, and how we make discerning lifestyle choices. God calls us to live for Him in every aspect of our lives.
— 10 Semester Periods
RELIGION III
This course will study the mystery and miracle of Jesus the Christ as seen through the eyes of John the disciple. From our reflections we will develop Biblical roots of the doctrines of the Christian church. Christianity and its doctrines are the integration of Christ's life into our own. We will take an organic approach to the doctrines by deriving them from the narrative of John itself. (1st Semester)
Romans, a study of Christ's substitutionary sacrifice that provides the basis for pardon, reconciliation, and spiritual growth. Friendships & Dating, the Christian perspective of self-understanding and the dynamics of friendship and dating. (2nd Semester)
— 10 Semester Periods
RELIGION IV
How do we become who God created us to be? What does a life lived with God's goals in mind look like? Does God's plan for me include a marriage partner, and if so, what can i do to be the kind of man or woman God want's me to be? We will examine Biblical principles for courtship, dating, engagement, marriage, parenting, career paths, and life destiny issues. We will—through reflection, interviews, Biblical dialogue, video education, and any other means available to us—seek to answer these questions. (1st semester)
Daniel and Revelation – How has God spoken to us in the past? Is there a particular Biblical model that can give insight into God's character and His plan for the Universe? How is it all going to end? What might eternity be like, and how do i make the trip? Through a very hands on approach, we will construct a model Sanctuary, and use the insights we gain to help us unlock the deeper meanings in the Revelation. (2nd semester)
— 10 Semester Periods
Science
BIOLOGY I
This class is designed to teach tenth-grade students the principles and laws of nature and how to apply them to life. The material is presented with the realization of God as the Creator of all life. Laboratory is part of the course.
— 10 Semester Periods
MARINE BIOLOGY
A course with emphasis on California marine life with numerous dissections and field trips. The student will learn many California tide pool organisms by name and be able to discuss their life cycle and how they are essential in the marine environment. Laboratory is part of the course.
— 10 Semester Periods. Prerequisite: Biology or Physical Science.
ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY
A course designed to familiarize students with body structure and function. The course will include a survey of the skeletal, muscular, nervous, respiratory, digestive, circulatory, lymphatic, and endocrine systems. Demonstrations and experiments will help students understand some of the physiological actions of the body. Laboratory is part of the course.
— 10 Semester Periods. Prerequisite: Biology I with a minimum “B” grade and Chemistry with a minimum “C” grade or by special permission of the teacher.
PHYSICAL SCIENCE
This course introduces students to the primary concepts of chemistry and physics. Topics include motion, heat, work, simple machines, force, light, electricity, atomic structure, periodic table, states of matter, chemical bonding, solutions, acids and bases, organic compounds, and other selected topics that can be examined in the study of the earth and its environment in the physical world. Laboratory is part of the course.
— 10 Semester Periods
CHEMISTRY
Chemistry includes the following topics: atomic structure, chemical bonding, mass relationships, gas laws, molecular composition, solutions, ionization, acids and bases, introduction to organic compounds, oxidation, and reduction. A strong emphasis on mathematical relationships in all applicable areas is stressed. Laboratory is part of the course.
— 10 Semester Periods. Prerequisite: At least a “C+” in Algebra 1.
PHYSICS
Physics class includes lecture, demonstration, discussion, and individual laboratory experience. The class will use computer technology to aid learning about the nature of matter and energy and the laws that govern each. Topics studied include force, motion, radioactivity, heat, light, sound, electric current, and machines which apply these phenomena. A good understanding of mathematics and willingness to study are essential. Laboratory is part of the course.
— 10 Semester Periods. Prerequisites: Geometry and Algebra II with at least a “C” average in each.
Social Studies
WORLD HISTORY/GEOGRAPHY
This year-long class, designed for the 10th-grade year is a general survey of the beginnings of earth’s recorded history down to present day. Emphasis will include a Christian focus on history, current events, and a one-day field trip to a local historical site.
— 10 Semester Periods
U.S. HISTORY
This year-long class, designed for the 11th-grade year, is a general survey of the development of the United States from the age of discovery to the present. It will include watching the news regularly, research projects, and classroom presentations.
— 10 Semester Periods
ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) U.S. HISTORY
This year-long, rigorous, college-level course is designed for the 11th-grade year. Students will master a broad body of historical knowledge and learn how to write essays based on original documents. The course will incorporate much additional reading in American Literature. Students in the class are required to take the National AP Exam in May (the testing fee is approximately $100). Colleges and universities may then choose to grant credit, placement, or both to AP students based on their test scores.
— 10 Semester Periods
U.S. GOVERNMENT
This semester-long required course is designed for the 12th-grade year. It includes a study of the U.S. Constitution and the three branches of the federal government. The course consists of units on elections, California State history, and government — including a field trip to the State Capitol, current news and events, landmark Supreme Court cases, classroom guests, and debates on controversial issues.
— 5 Semester Periods
ECONOMICS
This semester-long required course will give students a broad overview of macroeconomics and microeconomics over the course of a semester. Concepts such as scarcity, productivity, economic institutions, and incentives will be introduced. Students will apply basic reasoning skills to explore the relationships between economics, real life, and governmental policies.
— 5 Semester Periods
Technology Education
AUTO MECHANICS
This semester-long course provides hands-on instruction in the fundamentals of modern vehicle systems, maintenance, and repair. Students explore engine operation, electrical systems, brakes, steering, suspension, and drivetrains through a combination of classroom theory and lab-based practice. Emphasis is placed on safety, diagnostic procedures, industry-standard tools, and professional work habits, preparing learners for entry-level careers in the automotive service industry or further post-secondary training.— 5 Semester Periods
EMERGENCY MEDICAL RESPONDER
Students in this class will first study and practice the skills necessary to receive the AHA Healthcare Provider CPR certification. They will then learn the information and skills required to qualify as a medical first responder. Upon successful completion of the written test and the required skills tests, they will be issued a First Responder Certificate. This certificate could be the first step toward a career in firefighting or emergency medical response. It is also an excellent introduction to a career in the medical care field. Eligible students need to turn 18 years old before the end of the school year.EMERGENCY MEDICAL TECHNICIAN
Students will study and learn the practical skills necessary to become an Emergency Medical Technician. Eligible students need to turn 18 years old before the end of the school year.PHOTOGRAPHY/GRAPHICS TECHNOLOGY
This year-long class presents the principles of camera operation, light, and composition are emphasized. Students then learn how to process and print black and white film as well as take and process digital photos. In the second half of the course various techniques used to plan and produce useful printed materials are presented. The sequence of instruction includes planning, design, and composition, as well as printing and finishing processes for lithographic printing. An emphasis is placed on electronic publishing methods. Students will learn to use software such as Adobe InDesign and Adobe Illustrator.WOODWORKING
Students plan and produce useful wood projects ranging from cutting boards and toys to full-size furniture. Safety and efficiency are emphasized in the demonstrations and lectures covering topics which include planning, wood selection, machine operation, assembly, and finishing techniques. Most class time is spent in the shop.YEARBOOK PRODUCTION
Students in this class will learn the basics of planning and producing a publication by working on the staff of the Cypress Bough. Page layout, feature writing, caption writing, and digital production skills will be emphasized. Students will be taking pictures both on film and digital cameras and will be working with software such as Adobe Photoshop and InDesign. Admittance is by teacher permission for students who want to produce an excellent yearbook and are willing to “put in the time” to do it right.—10 Semester Periods
ROBOTICS
PROJECT SHOP
Project Shop is a hands‑on, interdisciplinary course that immerses students in the design and fabrication process using a variety of materials, tools, and technologies. Learners follow the full engineering design cycle—from ideation and planning through prototyping and production—while developing practical skills in woodworking, metalworking, plastics, and emerging digital fabrication methods. Emphasis is placed on creativity, safe tool operation, problem‑solving, and project management.
— 5 Semester Periods
AVIATION
Aviation Technology & Flight Principles introduces students to the fundamentals of aviation science, aircraft systems, and the aviation industry. Through classroom instruction, hands‑on labs, and flight simulation, learners explore aerodynamics, aircraft components, navigation, and safety procedures. Emphasis is placed on the engineering design process, regulatory standards, and career pathways in commercial, military, and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) operations.
— 5 Semester Periods
AP PSYCHOLOGY
This year-long course offers high school students a college‑level introduction to the systematic study of behavior and mental processes. Through exploration of major theories, research methods, and empirical findings, learners develop critical thinking and scientific literacy. Topics span from the biological bases of behavior to social interactions, preparing students for the AP Exam and future coursework in psychology, neuroscience, and related fields.
— 10 Semester Periods
WORSHIP MINISTRY
Worship Ministry equips students to lead and serve in contemporary worship settings, blending theological understanding with practical skills in music, technology, and team leadership. Through hands‑on rehearsals, service planning, and reflective study, learners explore the biblical foundations of worship, develop musical proficiency, master worship‑leading techniques, and cultivate a heart of authentic praise. Emphasis is placed on servant leadership, creative collaboration, and spiritual formation.
— 10 Semester Periods