Robertson County Schools
High School Catalog of Courses
East Robertson High School
Greenbrier High School
Jo Byrns High School
Springfield High School
White House Heritage High School
Graduation Requirements for Robertson County Students
English...... 4 credits
Mathematics...... 4 credits
(Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, and a Senior math or STEM math course)
Science...... 3 credits
(Biology I, Chemistry or Physics, additional laboratory science)
Social Studies...... 3 credits
Required: U.S. History and Geography, World History and Geography,
Economics and Government (1/2 credits each)
Wellness/PE...... 1 1/2 credits
Personal Finance...... 1/2 credit
Foreign Language...... 2 credits
(2 units of same language)
Fine Art...... 1 credit
Program of Study or Elective Focus...... 3 credits
Electives (minimum)...... 4 credits
TOTAL...... 26 credits
Beginning in January, 2017, all students seeking a regular diploma must take a civics test and score at least 70% as a requirement to graduate.
All juniors must take the ACT as a requirement for a regular diploma.
CLASSIFICATION OF STUDENTS
Students will be classified by both tenure in the schoolprogram and by credits earned. Year of entry will be the basisfor determining graduation requirements.Classification is done at the beginning of fall term andis for one full year, with the exception of students in theirfourth year who may move within range of graduationduring the school year.
Freshman--A student who has satisfactorily completedthe eighth grade.
Sophomore--A student who is in the second year ofhigh school and has satisfactorily completed 6 credits.
Junior--A student who is in the third year of highschool and has satisfactorily completed 12 credits.
Senior--A student who is in the fourth year of highschool and has satisfactorily completed 20 credits.
Graduating Senior--A student who is in at least thefourth year of high school and in range of graduation-
SENIORS: Rising seniors must be certain that they are enrolled in all courses needed to meet graduationrequirements. Counselors will assist in planningschedules to meet these requirements, but the finalresponsibility belongs to the student.
NCAA FRESHMAN ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
Graduating students who intend to continue theirathletic careers at the college or university levels mustunderstand that inter-collegiate associations and individualinstitutions may have specific eligibility requirementsin regard to course requirements, grade point averages,and standardized test scores. The counseling office at each high school cananswer these questions for potential student-athletes onan individual basis.
The following eligibility requirements are only asummary of initial eligibility for the NCAA. By the end of a student’s junior year, he or she should register withthe NCAA Clearinghouse ( all eligibility decisions are made. Studentsmustalso understand that colleges and universities may haveadditional requirements for admission and eligibility.
1. Students must complete 16 “core-course” requirementsto be eligible for a Division 1 institution.
2. Students must have a minimum GPA and standardizedtest score on file at the Clearinghouse.
3. It is the student’s responsibility to insure that coursesfor which he/she registers are compliant with NCAAClearinghouse eligibility as well as the prospective institution.
Dropping or changing classes after registrationmay jeopardize this eligibility. More information canbeobtained from the athletic director.
Please Note: The NCAA Clearinghouse will not accept a Credit Recovery course for credit to satisfycollege athletic eligibility requirements.
TENNESSEE HIGH SCHOOL COURSES WHICH MEET THE UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE AND TENNESSEE BOARD OF REGENTS UNIVERSITY ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS
Unit Requirements / High School Courses Fulfilling Requirements / Ineligible CoursesEnglish (4 units required) / English I, II, III, IV, Applied Communications / Journalism, Speech
Algebra (2 units required) / Algebra I and Algebra II / Pre-Algebra, Foundations II
Advanced Math (1 unit of geometry or an advanced course with geometry as a significant component required. / Geometry, Trigonometry, Math IV, Pre-Calculus, Calculus, / Mathematics 9, Pre-Algebra, Math for Tech, Accounting I&II, Computer Tech
Natural/Physical Sciences (2 units required, 1 must be lab course in biology, chemistry, or physics / Biology/Applied Biology, Chemistry I&II, Physics , Anatomy & Physiology, Ecology, Principles of Technology, Agri-Science / Earth Science, Life Science, Environmental Science
U.S. History (1 unit required) / U.S. History
Social Studies (1 unit required) / World History, World Geography, Ancient History, Modern History / Contemporary Issues, Psychology, Sociology, Economics,
U.S. Government
Foreign Language (2 units in same language required) / French, Latin, Spanish
Visual/Performing Arts (1 unit required) / Band, Chorus, Theater Arts, Visual Art / Art & Design, Speech, Drafting, Diversified Tech
Community colleges remain open admission to all high school graduates. However, these same high school units are recommended for students entering community collegeprograms designed for transfer to a baccalaureate program. Students with deficiencies who are admitted to community college transfer programs must remove anydeficiencies, for elective credit only, prior to receiving the associate degree in a transfer program.
State Board of Regents Schools -- Austin Peay, East Tennessee, University of Memphis, Middle Tennessee, Tennessee State, and Tennessee Tech.
UT System -- UT Knoxville, UT Martin, and UT Chattanooga
Requirements for other colleges and universities may vary. It is the student’s responsibility to check private and out-of-state schools for information regarding specificrequirements.
NOTE: University credit earned via Dual Credit courses taken through Volunteer State Community College may not transfer to private or out-of-state institutions. Please check with the school counselor for more information.
Mathematics
Four (4)credits in mathematics are required for graduation: Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, and a senior level or STEM mathematics course. Students must have a math course each of their four years in high school.
Tier III Math Intervention - 3121Prerequisite: Determined by school data team.
Course Description: This elective course is designed to support students’ learning of the mathematical skills necessary to be successful in high school mathematics courses.
Algebra I– 3102
Course Description: Algebra I A/B is a two semester rigorous math course that sets the foundation for all future math courses. By being spread out over two semesters, students will have time to cover the materialrequired at a slower pace and thereby developing a strong foundation for the other math courses needed for college and career readiness. Students must take the state-mandated End-of-Course Algebra I test and successfully pass Algebra IB in order to meet the requirements for graduation. Algebra I A is considered an elective credit; students receive their math credit by successfully completing Algebra IB. (May be taught as an A/B course—31023 and 31024).
Algebra I-Advanced – 3102A
Course Description:Advanced Algebra I is a fast-paced, more rigorous math course that sets the foundation for the advanced math courses. It meets only one term of 18 weeks. Due to the fast pace and in-depth coverage of material, the student is expected to do more work outside of the classroom for successful completion of this course.
Geometry - 3108
Course Description:This course teaches students to develop logical thinking skills by the use of undefined terms, definitions, postulates, and theorems. Higher level thinking skills are necessary for successful completion of Geometry as a foundation for upper level mathematics courses. (May be taught as an A/B course—31083 and 31084).
Geometry Advanced – 3108A
Course Description:Advanced Geometry includes all topics covered in standard Geometry with a more rigorous approach to geometric topics and a stronger emphasis on proofs. Due to the fast pace and the in depth coverage of material, the student is expected to do more work outside of the classroom for successful completion of the course.
Algebra II - 3103
Course Description: Algebra II is a study of general topics of second year algebra. Successful completion of this course is required for entrance into Tennessee public colleges and universities. Algebra II is designed for studentscommittedto entering some type of post high schoolacademic program. Students will be expectedto work many practice problems to ensure mastery.Keyalgebraic concepts will be exploredand expanded. The use of the graphing calculatoris a vital part of this course.(May be taught as an A/B course—31033 and 31034).
Algebra II Advanced – 3108A
Course Description:This course teaches all topics of Algebra II at a significantly faster pace, in greater depth, and with supplemental topics. Strong analytical thinking skills beyond the rigors of algebraic computation are essential for this course, which strongly emphasizes the concept of proof.Due to the fast pace and in-depth coverage of material, the student is expected to do more work outside of the classroom for successful completion of this course.
Bridge Math–3181 Course Description: This course is designed to introduce concepts previously studied in a new approach. Connections will be made between concepts allowing for a more in-depth understanding of topics and for problem solving applications. Students will look at multiple representations of concepts, blend their new understanding of topics with applications, and have the opportunity to model contextual situations. Concepts to study will include linear and quadratic functions, similar triangles and proportions, angle properties, scientific notations, polynomial arithmetic, radical expressions and probability. This course is required for students who score below 19 on the Math portion of the ACT.
Bridge S.A.I.L.S. Math – 3181SPrerequisite: Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II
Course Description: Mathematical skills in this course are alignment with the Developmental Studies Program for Mathematics (DSPM) outcomes, the curriculum standards and are required in order to prepare a DSPM student for college level mathematics courses. These new skills are introduced in conjunction with appropriate mathematical concepts and related to previous learning. Applications of these skills should play a principal role in the learning and assessment process. Technology is used to strategically enhance the student’s understanding of core concepts via the use of multiple problem solving strategies.
Finite Math –3182Prerequisite: Algebra I, Geometry, AlgebraII
Course Description: This course is designed to prepare students for both college and the workplace. Students choosing this course would be less likely to enroll in a STEM Calculus course upon entering college. However, this course will provide a foundation for students entering a business application Calculus course or other general education mathematics course. Topics include Mathematical processes, number & operations, Algebra, Geometry & measurement, data analysis, statistics, and probability.
Statistics –3136Prerequisite: Algebra I, Geometry, AlgebraII
Course Description: This course introduces students to the basic concepts of both descriptive and inferential statistics. Topics include collecting, displaying, interpreting, and analyzing data; surveys and experimental design; drawing conclusions about a population from a sample and predicting with data. Students must have a good understanding of equation solving and be comfortable working with functions and their graphs.
Pre-calculus –3126Prerequisite: Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II.
Course Description:This course combines topics from areas of higher mathematics, including trigonometry, complex numbers, and analytical geometry, sequences and series, probability, exponential and logarithmic functions, graphs, and vectors. Students who successfully complete this sequence will have a strong background for Calculus. Students who complete Pre-Calculus are expected to enroll in AP Calculus AB or Advanced Algebra and Trigonometry.
Advanced Algebra & Trigonometry –3124Prerequisite: Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II.
Course Description:This course is designed for college-bound juniors or seniors that have completed Algebra II but need math review in preparation for college. The course reviews and extends concepts of Algebra II which includes the study of algebraic, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions. Additional topics include matrices, mathematical modeling and sequences and series. Students who successfully complete this course should have the skills necessary for pre-calculus at the college level.
Advanced Placement Math Courses
(These courses may only be available at certain schools, virtually, or not at all)
AP Calculus AB –3127Prerequisite: Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, and either Pre-Calculus or Calculus.
Course Description:This course is devoted mainly to the topics in differential and integral calculus. The scope of the course follows the topics listed in the College Board Advanced Placement Mathematics Course Description. Successful completion of this course will prepare students to take the AP exam with the possibility of earning college credit. Students must attempt the AP exam in order to receive AP credit on their high school transcript.
AP Calculus BC –3127Prerequisite: Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, either Pre-Calculus or Calculus, and AP Calculus AB:
Course Description:This course reviews all the topics covered in AP Calculus AB plus additional objectives and additional topics. The scope of the course follows the topics listed in the College Board Advanced Placement Course Description. Successful completion of this course will prepare students to take the AP exam with the possibility of earning college credit. Students must attempt the AP exam in order to receive AP credit on their high school transcript.
Social Sciences
Three credits in social sciences are required for graduation: Economics, US Government and Civics, United States History and Geography, and World History and Geography.
African American History -3442
Course Description: Students will examine the life and contributions of African Americans from the early 1600’s through modern America. Students will explore the influence of geography on slavery and the growth of slavery on the American continent. Students will consider urban and rural African American communities and institutions in the North and South leading up to and during the Civil War. Students will investigate the rise and effects of Jim Crow and trace the impact of African American migration through the early twentieth century. Students will explore the impact of the Harlem Renaissance and the conditions and contributions of African Americans during the Great Depression and World War II. Students will examine the successes and failures of the Civil Rights Movement and consider the contemporary issues confronting African Americans.
Ancient History– 3402
Course Description: Students will examine the major periods of Ancient History from prehistoric times to 1500 AD/CE. Major emphasis will be given to the Neolithic Revolution, the development of river valley civilizations, the rise of Greece and Rome, and the decline and fall of the Roman Empire.
Contemporary Issues- 3435
Course Description: Students will use inquiry skills to examine the issues that impact the contemporary world. Included in the course will be analysis of the historical, cultural, economic, and geographic factors that have raised certain issues to levels of concern in our nation and around the globe. Students will engage in research and problem solving in order to better understand and assess significant current issues.
Economics - 3431(1/2 credit)
Course Description: Students will examine the allocation of scarce resources and the economic reasoning used by government agencies and by people as consumers, producers, savers, investors, workers, and voters. Key elements of the course include the study of scarcity, supply and demand, market structures, the role of government, national income determination, money and the role of financial institutions, economic stabilization, and trade. Students will examine the key economic philosophies and economists who have influenced the economies around the world in the past and present. Informational text and primary sources will play an instrumental part of the study of economics where it is appropriate.
Psychology - 3433 (1/2 credit)
Course Description: Students will study the development of scientific attitudes and skills, including critical thinking, problem solving, and scientific methodology. Students will also examine the structure and function of the nervous system in human and non-human animals, the processes of sensation and perception, and life span development. Students will study social cognition, influence, and relations. Students will examine social and cultural diversity and diversity among individuals. Students will study memory, including encoding, storage, and retrieval of memory. Students will also study perspectives of abnormal behavior and categories of psychological disorders, including treatment thereof. Students will elaborate on the importance of drawing evidence-based conclusions about psychological phenomena and gain knowledge on a wide array of issues on both individual and global levels. Throughout the course, students will examine connections between content areas within psychology and relate psychological knowledge to everyday life. Students will explore the variety of careers available to those who study psychology.
Sociology - 3432 (1/2 credit)
Course Description: Students will explore the ways sociologists view society, and also how they study the social world. In addition, students will examine culture, socialization, deviance and the structure and impact of institutions and organizations. Also, students will study selected social problems and how change impacts individuals and societies.
United States Government and Civics -3417 (1/2 Credit)
Course Description: Students will study the purposes, principles, and practices of American government as established by the Constitution. Students are expected to understand their rights and responsibilities as citizens and how to exercise these rights and responsibilities in local, state, and national government. Students will learn the structure and processes of the government of the state of Tennessee and various local governments. The reading of primary source documents is a key feature of United States Government and Civics standards.
United States History and Geography: Post-Reconstruction to the Present - 3416
Course Description: Students will examine the causes and consequences of the Industrial Revolution and America’s growing role in world diplomatic relations, including the Spanish-American War and World War I. Students will study the goals and accomplishments of the Progressive movement and the New Deal. Students will also learn about the various factors that led to America’s entry into World War II, as well as its consequences for American life. Students will explore the causes and course of the Cold War. Students will study the important social, cultural, economic, and political changes resulting from the Civil Rights Movement, the Cold War, and recent events and trends that have shaped modern-day America. Additionally, students will learn the causes and consequences of contemporary issues impacting their world today. Students will continue to use skills for historical and geographical analysis as they examine American history since Reconstruction with special attention to Tennessee connections in history, geography, politics, and people. Students will continue to learn fundamental concepts in civics, economics, and geography within the context of United States history. The reading of primary source documents is a key feature of United States history standards. Finally, students will focus on current human and physical geographic issues important in contemporary America and the global society.