HS Course Selection - WCU DUAL ENROLLMENT PARTNERSHIP WITH WCASD

  • Fall and Spring semester classes are located at the West Chester University Graduate Center and are scheduled for Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 1:05 pm -1:55 pm. Students will be scheduled to depart from their high school at the conclusion of 6th period and travel by way of their own transportation to the Graduate Center located off of Greenhill Road. Students successfully completing a semester college-level course will receive three college credits from West Chester University and 1 credit from WCASD.

    Fall Semester Courses

    Elementary Japanese I (11, 12)

    Introduction to elementary Japanese with focuses on hearing, speaking, reading, and writing to develop basic competence. Emphasis is on integration of all language skills.

    Introduction to Geospatial Technology and Analytics (11, 12)

    This course develops critical thinking skills through the exploration of the fundamental components of data analytics in terms of spatial data and geospatial technologies. This includes the basic concepts and skills related to the 3 core areas of analytics, 1) data, 2) analysis, and 3) visualization. Data structures and skills are examined within the context of Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Spreadsheets, database tools, GIS software, and geospatial technology are used to capture, manage, and store spatial data. Analysis tools, such as spreadsheet functions, scripts, and GIS software are used to investigate data sets related to discipline-specific projects. Geovisualization of results are communicated using map applications, dash boards, and story maps.

    Introduction to Anthropology: Cultural (11, 12)

    This introductory course explores the traditional subjects of cultural anthropology and the field’s growing concern with topics of everyday interest to mainstream U.S. society. Anthropology, in the broadest sense, is the study of humanity; socio-cultural anthropology in particular examines the distinctive and often intangible mechanisms that make us think and act, organize ourselves, and understand and experience the surrounding world the way we do. This course explores social and cultural diversity through a range of themes: economic and political organization, race and ethnicity, kinship and marriage, gender, religion, language, and globalization.

    Spring Semester Courses

    Elementary Japanese II (11, 12)

    Continuation of basic language skills in speaking, reading and writing of modern Chinese with an emphasis on solid training at the beginning level. The course focuses on providing students with the basic vocabulary needed for daily conversation. Elementary reading and limited writing introduced.
    Prerequisite: Successful completion of Elementary Japanese I

    Introduction to Ethics (11, 12)

    In complex situations, the study of ethics will help individuals anticipate difficult choices, evaluate competing demands, and think through moral questions. Studying ethics develops background content and critical thinking skills to participate in conversations with others about what is best. These discussions and debates are necessary for contributing to something larger than ourselves. This course will provide an introduction to major theories and contemporary work in moral philosophy and offers tools for ethical decision making in our daily lives with an emphasis on the influence of culture, power, and privilege.

    Nutrition and Culture (11, 12)

    Our physical and mental wellbeing are greatly impacted by diet and food choices, which are also directly affected by internal and external cultural influences. Culture-specific foods are associated with family traditions and celebrations (and feelings of comfort and pleasure). This course will examine the relationship between nutrition and multicultural practices and will discuss the origins of traditional food preparation, contemporary consumption habits, and disease incidence among the majority and minority populations within the United States.

    Summer Semester Courses

     

    Studio Production (11, 12)

    This class focuses on the techniques of music production in a studio setting. Students learn the basics of recording, editing, mixing, and mastering in a digital audio workstation.

    Studio Music Ensemble (11, 12)

    The Studio Music Ensemble is a group with flexible instrumentation built around a pop band core that performs music in a variety of styles, including existing songs and original compositions. Key aspects of the course include performance, improvisation, collaboration, effective rehearsal techniques, and live audio.

     

    Full-School Year Courses

    These dual enrollment courses will be taught on site by WCASD teaching staff in cooperation with West Chester University. Students successfully completing this full-year college level course will receive six college credits from West Chester University and 2 credits from WCASD.

    Advanced Geoscience: Astronomy and Geology (11, 12)

    During the first semester, the students will examine the formation and composition of the universe. In the second semester, students will study the Earth’s history, composition, and processes.
    Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology and Chemistry.

    Advanced Geoscience: Oceanography and Meteorology (11, 12)

    During the first semester, students will explore the physical and biological processes in the oceans. In the second semester, students will investigate the fundamental processes that determine the weather and climate on Earth.
    Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology and Chemistry.