» Home

AVID

AVID: The AVID elective at Clark High School supports students in their development as readers, writers, listeners, speakers, and thinkers. All AVID high school students will focus on higher level questioning, effective note taking, organization, and group collaboration to prepare them for high school and postsecondary success. In addition, the AVID high school curriculum engages students in activities that will help them to choose a college, prepare for entrance exams and placement tests, and navigate the admissions and financial aid process.

Career & Technical Education -Agriculture, Business/Technology Applications, Medical Science

Chris Ristow, Department Chairperson

Animal Science : This basic applied course enhances the knowledge and skills pertaining to the production and marketing of domestic livestock, It provides the student with the opportunity to work with live animals while learning management and marketing skills. Some of the areas covered are selection, anatomy, nutrition, genetics, reproduction, and health. An individual or class project may be required as assigned by the instructor. Students are also given the opportunity to develop leadership skills through the FFA organization.

Business Computer Information Systems I (BCIS I): Business Computer Information Systems I (BCIS) I is a class that gives students a working knowledge of technology and prepares them to be proficient in business applications using advanced computer software. This one-year program uses individualized and group instruction to assist students in gaining business skills. Microsoft Office Professional allows students the opportunity to learn Word, Power Point, Excel, and Access. BCIS I places an emphasis on advanced word processing skills including document formatting, desktop publishing, integration of software, and multimedia presentations. This course satisfies the state technology credit required for graduation.

Canine Science: This course develops knowledge and skills pertaining to selection, nutrition, reproduction, health and management of dogs while exploring career opportunities in canine science. It is a laboratory-oriented course that gives students hands-on experience in areas such as training, grooming, and care of dogs. Students are also given the opportunity to develop leadership skills through the FFA organization.

Desktop Publishing: In this project-based course, students will learn the design theory and technology skills for producing effective print communications. While developing skills in page layout, editing, and graphic design, students will plan and produce documents such as newsletters, brochures, posters, marketing materials and magazines.

Exploring Aquaculture Science: This introductory course acquaints students with the growing industry of aquaculture. It is a laboratory-oriented course that includes understanding water resource management, determining the biological principles, growth habits, anatomy, and morphology of aquaculture plants and animals. Students are also given the opportunity to develop leadership skills through the FFA organization.

Introduction to Medical Science Careers: Introduction to Medical Science Careers is a course designed to given an overview of therapeutic, diagnostic, environmental, and information systems of the health care industry. This course focuses on the history of health care, medical, ethical, and legal responsibilities, employability skills, and introductory CPR. Students will develop a concept of health and wellness. Current and future trends of the health care industry and its systems are integrated throughout the course.

Introduction to Veterinary Technician: Veterinary Technician develops knowledge and skills pertaining to the area of veterinary technician assistance. It is a laboratory-oriented course that gives students hands-on experience in areas such as setting up and running diagnostic tests, techniques used in surgery practices, keeping client records, as well as the study of employer/employee relationships. Students are also given the opportunity to develop leadership skills through the FFA organization.

Keyboarding: Keyboarding can make the difference in preparing the student for today as well as for the future. Keyboarding I is designed to develop correct techniques using the touch system with functional speed and accuracy. The student will be able to format simple letters and reports and develop critical file management techniques. This one-semester course is for all students to develop and apply hands-on keyboarding skills, which are important, both personally and in the workplace.

Medical Science Careers: Medical Science Careers is designed to provide students the opportunity for comprehensive study of human anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, introduction to basic patient care skills, American Heart Association First Aid and CPR certification, as well as health career exploration. Students will also address the relevance of this class to today’s health care industry. Successful completion of both semesters of this course will satisfy the health credit required for graduation.

Multimedia: Students will develop an understanding of the multimedia process, from planning and design, research and development, to presentation and evaluation. Students will develop proficiency in the use of text, graphics, audio, video, and multimedia authoring tools. Students will utilize these skills to produce a variety of projects and presentations. This course will fulfill the Technology Applications requirement for graduation.

Webmastering: The student will develop an understanding of the structure, functions and technical foundations of the World Wide Web, the Internet, and Intranets. After developing basic proficiency in creating Web pages using traditional HTML coding, visual HTML editors and graphics production software, students will work cooperatively to plan and develop functional and aesthetically pleasing web sites targeting appropriate audiences.

Wildlife and Recreation Management: This course exams the importance of wildlife and outdoor recreation with emphasis on using wildlife and natural resources. Also, included in the course are sections covering boater education, angler education, and hunter education. Students are also given the opportunity to develop leadership skills through the FFA organization.

English - English, Reading

Ginger Matthews, Department Chairperson

English I:
Prerequisite: None
This course is designed to accommodate approximately 80% of ninth grade students. Emphasis will be on fundamental language skills: reading, writing, speaking, listening, viewing and presenting. An emphasis on vocabulary and composition skills will be an on-going part of the program. The course includes studies of various literary genres: short story, poetry, novel, drama and non-fiction. The development of critical reading and writing skills a major emphasis of the course.

English I,H/Pre-AP/IH
Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation and appropriate test scores.
English I Honors is a course designed for approximately the upper twenty percent of the freshman class, the selection being based upon achievement test scores and teacher recommendation. Students will participate in a general review of grammar with emphasis upon usage. Strong attention will be given to the development of composition and critical reading skills. Vocabulary development and outside reading will complement each credit of study. All literature study will be supported by composition. Literary emphasis includes the short story, novel, drama, and poetry.

English I - ESL
Prerequisite: Placement in ESOL program and student must be an immigrant.
English I ESL is a course designed to provide instruction in the English I TEKS for beginner and intermediate level limited English proficient (LEP) students enrolled in ESL. It also works to build English language proficiency. Students are placed in this course according to their current level of English proficiency. This course does meet the graduation requirement for English I, so students who take this course may not later take regular English I for credit. It should be noted that some colleges and universities might not honor this course when considering a student's application for admission.

English II
Prerequisite: English (1 credit)
This course includes a review of language skills, the teaching of intermediate composition skills, and an examination of literary themes and forms. The course includes study of various literary genres: short story, poetry, drama, non-fiction, and the novel. Emphasis in both semesters will be placed on vocabulary development, composition skills, critical reading, and critical writing skills.

English II –H/PreAP/IH
Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation, appropriate test scores and English (1 credit)
This course is designed for approximately the upper twenty percent of the sophomore class, the selection being based upon test scores, teacher recommendation, and performances in English I- H/IH/PreAP. Students will review writing skills and extend their study of vocabulary, the short story, novel, poetry, and drama. Strong attention will be given to the development of composition and critical reading skills. Composition will supposrt all literature study. Outside reading assignments will continue for both PreAP and IH students. New areas of emphasis will be the development of research skills.

English II - ESL
Prerequisite: Credit for English I or English I ESL and student must be an immigrant.
English II SOL is a course designed to provide instruction in the English II TEKS for beginner and intermediate level limited English proficient (LEP) students enrolled in ESL. It also works to build English language proficiency. Students are placed in this course according to their current level of English proficiency. This course does meet the graduation requirement for English II, so students who take this course may not later take regular English II for credit. It should be noted that some colleges and universities might not honor this course when considering a student's application for admission.

Reading I, Reading II, Reading III: Reading I, II, or III is to help students performing as much as four grade levels behind in reading comprehension OR experiencing difficulty in content area classes OR failing state level reading. Emphasis will be placed on increasing skills in reading comprehension, vocabulary development, reading rate, study skills, and listening skills. In addition, emphasis will be placed on increasing the student’s desire to read. At least one year of this course is required by local policy for all students who failed state level Reading at 8th or 10th grades. Up to three credits may be taken for state elective credit.

ESL

English I SOL: English I SOL is a course designed to provide instruction in the English I TEKS for beginner and intermediate level limited English proficient (LEP) students enrolled in ESOL. It also works to build English language proficiency. Students are placed in this course according to their current level of English proficiency. This course does meet the graduation requirement for English I, so students who take this course may not later take English I for credit. It should be noted that some colleges and universities might not honor this course when considering a student’s application for admission.

FOREIGN LANGUAGE—Chinese, French, German, Latin, Spanish

Rodica Timaru, Department Chairperson

ASL: American Sign Language is the language used by the Deaf. Not simple gestures for English words, American Sign Language is its own unique language with a distinct grammatical system. The courses in American Sign Language (ASL) are an integration of expressive and receptive skills with emphasis on fingerspelling, numbers, glossing, signs, phrases and sentences at the beginning level for ASL 1 and a more intermediate level for ASL II. The courses will provide students with information on general usages for signs and grammatical structure for simple and complex sentence.

French I: French I is an introduction to the French world, its language and its people. The main emphasis is on oral skills while developing reading and writing skills. The student will be guided in recognizing the interrelationships of languages and will develop a cultural appreciation of the Francophone. The focus of this course is on novice proficiency.

French II: French II continues to develop the oral skills with added emphasis on reading and writing skills. The focus is on the development of mid to high novice proficiency. Expansion of vocabulary and grammatical structures continues. Contrast between English and French strengthens the language learning process. Culturally related activities of French-speaking countries or regions will be explored.

French II – H/PreAP/PreIB: French II Honors is an expansion of French II. It is designed to provide opportunities for talented language students beyond those available in the regular French II class. The course extends the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS). It stresses the development of low/intermediate proficiency in oral skills, accurate comprehension of contemporary and cultural reading passages; it expands the use of grammatical constructions and vocabulary, and begins the development of expository composition. Culturally related activities of selected regions or countries will be explored.

French III – H/PreAP/PreIB: French III Honors is an expansion of language III. It is designed to provide tenth, eleventh, and twelfth grade talented language students opportunities beyond those offered in other language classes. The course extends the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS). It utilizes higher level/critical thinking skills and focuses on the development of mid/intermediate proficiency in oral skills, comprehension of French literature and history, expository composition, and expanded use of grammar and vocabulary. The focus of this course is an intermediate proficiency.

German I: German I is an introduction to the German world, its language and its people. The main emphasis is on oral skills while developing reading and writing skills. The student will be guided in recognizing the interrelations of languages and will develop a cultural appreciation of the German speaking world. The focus of this course is on low novice proficiency.

German II: German II continues to develop the oral skills with added emphasis on reading and writing skills. The focus is on the development of mid to high novice proficiency. Expansion of vocabulary and grammatical structures continues. Contrast between English and German strengthens the language learning process. Culturally related activities of selected German speaking countries or regions will be explored.

Latin I: Latin I is an introduction to the language and to the Romans who spoke it. Basic grammar, syntax, and vocabulary are discussed in connection with their Latin root forms; however, contemporary meanings and correct usage are emphasized. Mythology is viewed as an example of ancient religious beliefs, a reflection of Roman lifestyles, and a form of literature. The focus of this course is a novice proficiency in reading comprehension.

Spanish I: Spanish I is an introduction to the Spanish world, it language and its people. The main emphasis is on oral skills while developing reading and writing skills. The student will be guided in recognizing the interrelations of languages and will develop a cultural appreciation of the Hispanic world. The focus of this course is on low novice proficiency.

Spanish II: Spanish II continues to develop the oral skills with added emphasis on reading and writing skills. The focus is on the development of mid to high novice proficiency. Expansion of vocabulary and grammatical structures continues. Contrast between English and Spanish strengthens the language learning process. Culturally related activities of selected Hispanic countries or regions will be explored.

Spanish II H/PreAP/PreIB: Spanish II H/PreAP/PreIB is an expansion of Spanish II. It is designed to provide opportunities for talented language students beyond those offered in the regular Spanish II class. The class extends the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS). It stresses the development of low/intermediate proficiency in oral skills, accurate comprehension of contemporary and cultural reading passages; it expands the use of grammatical constructions and vocabulary, and begins the development of expository composition. Culturally related activities of selected regions or countries will be explored. The focus of this course is novice proficiency.

Spanish III: Spanish III continues to develop the oral skills with added emphasis on reading and writing skills. The focus is on the development of novice mid to intermediate low proficiency. Expansion of vocabulary and grammatical structures continues. Contrast between English and Spanish strengthens the language learning process. Culturally related activities of selected Hispanic countries and regions will be explored.

Spanish III H/PreAP/PreIB: Spanish III H/PreAP/PreIB is an expansion of Spanish III. It is designed to provide talented language students opportunities beyond those offered in the other language classes. The course extends the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS). It utilizes high level/critical thinking and focuses on the development of mid-intermediate proficiency in oral skills, comprehension of Spanish literature history, expository composition, and expands the use of grammar and vocabulary.

JROTC

JROTC 1: This course is designed for students who want to develop inherent leadership abilities. The focus of all instruction is on the enhancement of responsible citizenship and leadership. Instructional concepts are explored through both classroom theory and practice in a Leadership Lab. The theory provides students an opportunity to study the principles and traits of leadership; to learn the importance of positive self-concept; to develop basic managerial and leadership skills; to identify personality/psychological needs; and to learn the dynamics of group interaction. The Leadership Lab practical work places the student in a position to respond training in a variety of positions within the organizational levels of cadet battalion.

Through the Corps of Cadets, students learn to take and respond to orders; prepare for higher positions of responsibility; develop self-discipline, pride, bearing, self-control, and teamwork. Classroom subjects include a study of citizenship values using the Constitution States, the Bill of Rights, American Military History, First Aid, and the various physical training aspects of Cadet Challenge. The course also emphasizes the development of communication skills, teaches the students how to study and why, how to take notes, how to do homework, and how to become more self-confident. This subjects are combined with hands-on training in a structured environment with academic preparation for the future. Students may participate in such extracurricular activities as color guard, marksmanship team, drill team, honor guard, physical fitness team, and orienteering team. Several extracurricular competitions and other activities involving all members of the Corps of Cadets are conducted during the year. Naturally, students do not incur any military obligation by participating in Military Science courses.

JROTC 2: This course is a continuation of JROTC 1 and is designed to place students in mid-level organizational leadership positions. It will reinforce all the previous leadership and citizenship training of JROTC 1 and further develops a student’s abilities to motivate and lead other students. Classroom subjects include intermediate leadership, oral and written communication, military history, the roles of the military forces, first aid, drug abuse prevention, and citizenship. Practical work places the student in a mid-level position of responsibility and leadership. It emphasizes taking charge of and training groups of other students ranging from squad size (6-9 individuals) to platoon level groups (15-20 cadets). Students may elect to participate in extracurricular activities as mentioned in the JROTC 1 description. As before, students do not incur any military obligation by participating in Military Science courses.

MATH—Algebra, Geometry, and Pre-Calculus

Ramona Perry, Department Chairperson

Algebra I: This course is the study of the real number system and its various subsystems; algebraic representation, solution, and evaluation of problem situations; graphing as a tool to interpret linear representation, solution, and evaluation of problem situations; graphing as a tool to interpret linear relations, functions, and inequalities; quadratic equations; polynomials; rational expressions; and properties of operations with square roots.

Algebra I – H/PreAP/PreIB: This course is designed for students who have exhibited superior mathematical ability and are ready to high school level work. The content of this Algebra course will include a study of the real numbers and their operations, the language of Algebra, linear equations, and inequalities, ratios, proportions and variations, polynomials, rational expressions, radicals, and quadratic relations. Students will receive high school credit and high school grade points.

Algebra II: This course is the study of mathematical structure, quadratic functions, quadratic relations, conic sections, systems of equations and numerical methods and higher degree polynomials.

Algebra II – H/PreAP/PreIB: Students will study the same topics as defined in Algebra II plus additional topics in sequences, series, and probability. In addition, more emphasis will be given to algebraic proof of theorems. Higher levels of understanding such as relationship of ideas, analysis, synthesis, and evaluation will be stressed. Since this is an honors course, teachers and students will be discussing problems normally not covered in a regular course.

Geometry: The study of axiomatic systems; lines, segments, an angles; triangles; other polygons; circles, solid geometry; and measurement.

Geometry – H/PreAP/PreIB: The student will study the same topics as defined for Geometry plus advanced topics in space geometry. Since this is an advanced course, the students will be discussing problems and concepts not normally covered in a regular course. Higher levels of understanding such as relationships of ideas, analysis, synthesis, and evaluation will be stressed.

Pre-Calculus - H: Pre-Calculus is an honors course, which combines the elements of Trigonometry, Elementary Analysis, and Analytic Geometry. This course is an in-depth study of the real and complex numbers, functions (polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, circular, and trigonometric), vectors, sequences and series, and second-degree relations. Students who satisfactorily complete this course may take calculus.

PAL

PALS: This course provides selected students an opportunity to work in a helping role with students on their own campus and/or with students from feeder middle schools and elementary schools, in order to facilitate a more positive school experience and more informed and responsible decision-making. PAL students will receive training in areas such as communication and listening skills, tutoring, group dynamics and other means of helping younger students deal with issues of concern to them. Students can only earn one credit in four years.

SCIENCE—IPC, Biology, and Chemistry

Camille McCraw, Department Chairperson

Biology: Biology is the study of the structure, growth, and function of the life systems of selected organisms. This study will encompass historical contributions to biological concepts; energy production, transfer, and use in living systems; and the relationships of organisms with each other and with their environments. Students acquire data using their senses and instrumentation. Observations are made of living organisms in the environment, prepared specimens, various ecosystems, and inherited traits. Student investigations emphasize accurate observations, collection of data, data analysis, and the safe manipulation of laboratory apparatus and materials in the field and the laboratory.

Biology – H/PreAP/PreIB: The Biology H/PreAP/PreIB course offers students an in depth study and observation of living organisms in the environment, prepared specimens, various ecosystems, and inherited traits. Student investigations emphasize accurate observations, collection of data, data analysis, and the safe manipulation of laboratory apparatus and materials in the field and the laboratory.

Chemistry: Only those 9th grade students who are on level and have strong math and reading skills should enter Biology and Chemistry in 10th grade. Chemistry is the study of the structure, composition, and behavior of matter. The course of study emphasizes the investigation of matter, its interactions, and the factors affecting the interactions. Chemistry is a laboratory-oriented course that stresses the observation of matter and its behavior, classification of matter, communication of data, measurement of chemical quantities, prediction of chemical phenomena, and manipulation of chemical investigations. Students acquire data by using their senses and instrumentation. Student investigations emphasize accurate observations, collection of data, data analysis, the safe manipulation of laboratory apparatus and materials in the laboratory and field.

Chemistry – H/PreAP/PreIB: The Chemistry H/PreAP/PreIB course is designed to introduce the student to the qualitative and quantitative aspects of a first-year chemistry program. An in-depth study of the mathematical applications will be stressed. The course will emphasize the theoretical concepts of molecular bonding, thermodynamics, kinetics, and equilibrium. The descriptive aspects of the periodic table will be dealt with throughout the course. Students will complete an independent research project.

Integrated Physics and Chemistry: This course integrates the disciplines of Physics and Chemistry in topics such as the following: motion, waves, energy, transformations, properties of matter, changes in matter, and solution chemistry. The use of technology and laboratory investigation will be a primary focus in instruction. Student investigations will emphasize accurate observations, collection of data, data analysis, and the safe manipulation of laboratory apparatus and materials in the laboratory.

Scientific Research and Design Honors: Students will explore science and become acquainted with the scientific community, improve fundamental research skills, apply statistical analysis, and enhance oral and visual presentation techniques. Each student will be required to develop his/her own independent science research project and will learn how to structure, organize, publish, and present the project in one or more formal presentations to a panel of judges. It is required that all student projects be judged.

Social Studies-US History, World History World Geography, AP, Humanities

Katrina Grandquist, Department Chairperson

Human Geography AP: This class introduces students to the systematic study of patterns, and processes that have shaped human understanding, use, and alternation of the earth’s surface. Students will also learn about the methods and tools geographers use in their science and practice. This course prepares the student to take the Advanced Placement exam and satisfies the World Geography credit for graduation.

Humanities I & II
Humanities I English I GT and Humanities II World History AP GT are courses that provide gifted students with opportunities not available through regular or advanced classes. The courses combine PreAP English I with AP World History in a two-year interdisciplinary spiral of literature, art and history. 9th and 10th grade students sit in the same class while earning credit in separate courses (9th graders earn PreAP English I credit while 10th graders earn AP World History credit and can take the AP World History test to possibly earn college credit.)

World Geography Studies: This course introduces students to the physical and human world around them and helps them develop the means to examine that world. Facts and information on physical, cultural, political, and economic geography as well as abundant opportunity to refine the content through the exercise of map and globe skills, reading skills, and thinking skills will be provided to the student.

World Geography Studies – H/PreAP/PreIB: Honors World Geography is designed for mastery for state essential elements and sub-elements as well as extension beyond this mastery. In this course, critical thinking and analytical skills will be utilized in various projects including interpretation of primary and secondary source materials. Students will use their knowledge of spatial relationships, systematic physical and human processes and the interaction between people and their environment to make intelligent decisions as citizens.

World History Studies – H/PreAP/PreIB: Honors World History is designed for mastery of the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills as well as extension beyond this mastery. The Honors student will be expected to use primary source materials extensively. Additionally, emphasis will be given to the study of prehistoric times and the modern era. Research, critical thinking, and writing skills will be developed through creative projects and activities.

AP World History
A true world history class that has structured focuses on the development of the world primarily from 600 to the present. No more than 30% of the course is devoted to Europe and the United States. Students compare different civilizations around the world to understand the current situation of today’s world. This course prepares the student to take the Advanced Placement exam and satisfies the World History credit for graduation.

Special Education

Ronna Combs, Department Chairperson

Yearbook

YEARBOOK I : Gives students the opportunity to creat layouts, do copy work, and take photographs to prepare the high school yearbook.

YEARBOOK II : This course is a continuation of Yearbook I. Students will be given the opportunity to do advanced layout and copy work, as well as editorial duties for the high school yearbook.