Curriculum
Career and Technical Education
Public Notification of Nondiscrimination
It is the policy of Commerce ISD not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex or handicap in its vocational programs, services or activities as required by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972; and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended.
It is the policy of Commerce ISD not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, handicap, or age in its employment practices as required by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972; the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, as amended; and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended.
Commerce ISD will take steps to assure that lack of English language skills will not be a barrier to admission and participation in all educational and vocational programs.
For information about your rights or grievance procedures, contact the Title IX Coordinator Steve Drummond at Steve.Drummond@commerceisd.org, 903-886-3755, and/or the Section 504 Coordinator Susann Roden at Susann.Roden@commerceisd.org, 903-886-3756.
Calling all Tigers. Do you want to know what classes we offer here at CHS? Here is the list of all the course offerings we have currently.
Accordion
Math
Algebra I : Students are introduced to basic algebraic skills in a logical order, including relations, functions, graphing, systems of equations, radicals, factoring polynomials, rational equations, and quadratic functions. It emphasizes practical methods of solving first and second-degree equations and inequalities. Each section involves word problems and real-life applications using basic algebraic skills. Algebra l is the standard course for students who are on grade level. It provides a foundation for higher level mathematics courses.
Geometry : This course is designed to emphasize the study of the properties and applications of common geometric figures in two and three dimensions. It includes the study of lines, polygons, right triangles and transformations. Inductive and deductive critical thinking skills are used in problem solving situations. Geometry also emphasizes writing proofs to solve (prove) properties of geometric figures as well as real world applications.
Prerequisites: Algebra I
Pre-AP Geometry : This course is designed for students who have already taken Algebra in the 8th grade. In addition to the concepts covered in the regular geometry course, this course will look into the geometry of circles in more depth and possibly study some non-Euclidean geometry. Gifted students may be challenged with various projects to accompany topics addressed in geometry.
Prerequisites: Algebra I
Algebra II : A continuation of the topics studied in Algebra I, this course will extend the development of the real number system and will include a study of the complex numbers as a mathematical system. Students will study the ideas of relations and functions, with an emphasis on graphing; a variety of representations as well as a variety of techniques (including the graphing calculator) will be used to solve problems. Matrices and determinants will be introduced. The equations and graphs of conic sections will also be studied. The students who plan to attend college should study Algebra II since familiarity with mathematical concepts and an understanding of a structured approach to a discipline will be needed.
Prerequisites: Algebra I & Geometry
Pre-AP Algebra II : Pre-AP Algebra II is a course designed for the student who has future plans to take AP Calculus. In addition to the material usually covered in algebra, more in-depth topics such as probability and statistics, and matrices and determinants will be studied. Extensive problem solving will be stressed.
Prerequisites: Algebra I & Geometry
Pre-AP Pre-Calculus : Pre AP Pre-Calculus is a comprehensive study of the properties and applications of trigonometric functions, including trigonometric ratios, their graphs, identities, and inverse functions. Other topics include conic sections, polynomial functions, exponential functions, logarithmic functions, sequences and series, complex numbers, and vectors. Students will experience a more in depth study of the previously mentioned topics. This advanced academic course is designed for students who intend to take AP Calculus during their senior year.
Prerequisites: Algebra II
AP Calculus : Advanced Placement Calculus AB consists of a full academic year of work in calculus and related topics comparable to one semester of calculus in colleges and universities. It is expected that students who take AP Calculus will seek college credit or placement from institutions of higher learning. The year's course will be devoted to the topics in differential and integral calculus to adequately prepare students for the Advanced Placement Calculus AB examination. This course requires a graphing utility.
Prerequisites: Pre-AP Pre-Calculus
AP Statistics : AP Statistics is a course offered to students who wish to complete studies in secondary school equivalent to a one semester, introductory, non-calculus based college course in statistics. The purpose of the course is to introduce students to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. Students are exposed to four broad themes: I) exploring data, 2) planning a study, 3) anticipating patterns, 4) statistical inference. Students who successfully complete the course and the exam may receive credit and/or advanced placement for a one-semester introductory college statistics course.
Prerequisites: Algebra II
MATH 1314 - Dual Credit College Algebra : This course covers an in-depth study and applications of quadratics, polynomial, rational, exponential and logarithmic functions, and systems of equations. Additional topics such as arithmetic and geometric progressions; sequences and series; and matrices and determinants are included.
MATH 2312 - Dual Credit College Pre-Calculus : This course covers an in-depth study and applications of trigonometric functions and their graphs; radian measurement; solution of triangles; identities; logarithmic and exponential functions; trigonometric equations; applications of trigonometry; conic sections and their graphs.
English
To graduate, students MUST have a minimum of four years of ELA (English Language Arts) courses.
FRESHMAN - ENG 1 (or Pre-AP)
SOPHOMORES - ENG 2 (or Pre-AP)
JUNIORS - ENG 3 or Dual Credit
SENIORS - ENG 4, Dual Credit, or other option
English 4: World Literature. This is a standard senior English course, designed to explore novels with a global approach. Students will read and analyze novels, short stories, poetry, and other genres of literature, connecting the texts with global issues. TSI is not required for this course. There is no AP option for ENG 4.
College Prep English. This course is designed for the fall for seniors who would like to attend Paris Junior College or go ahead and take ENG 1301 in the spring. Success in this course will grant the student a TSI waiver for the writing portion at PJC. This is a fall semester course will be followed with ENG 1301 through TAMUC dual credit program.
ENG 1301: College Reading and Writing. This dual credit course offered through TAMUC. It defines and redefines the idea of literacy through the narrative writing of various individuals. Students will be required to read multiple texts and write several essays in which they discuss their ideas about the subject matter. Pre-requisites: TSI.
ENG 1302: Written Argument and Research. This dual credit course if offered through TAMUC. In this class, students will learn about conducting ethical research as well as how literacy can be examined through an ethnography. This semester long project will be presented at a research forum. Pre-requisites: TSI and ENG 1301.
ENG 2326: Intro to Literature. This dual credit course is offered through TAMUC. Here, students will study critical theory for analyzing literature with a more in depth study of the types of theoretical lenses which can be used to look at a text. Students will be required to read multiple texts, write several essays, and complete group projects. Pre-requisites: ENG 1301 & 1302.
Academic Writing - honors weighted course designed for seniors who have taken all available dual credit English courses, but need more preparation in higher level collegiate writing. This course will cover MLA, APA, and other formats in writing which will specifically address the course path for the students in the class. Students will spend time working with academic writing of multiple genres included lab reports, research, humanities, analytical papers, journal reviews, etc.
English 3: American Literature. This course is designed for juniors. Students will read multiple genres of literature written by American authors and write about their analysis and connection to the texts. There is no AP option for English 3. Possible book studies include Friday Night Lights, Code Talkers, and a Street Car Named Desire.
Literature Foundations. This course is for greater reading comprehension and building vocabulary. It is designed without traditional literature, but rather includes texts such as news articles and online sources to engage students in other types of reading. This developmental course is geared to better prepare students for STAAR mastery.
English 2: Language Arts. Required for all sophomores. STAAR tested subject. Possible book studies will include: Possible book studies include Of Mice and Men and Lord of the Flies. Taught by Mrs. Tatum.
English 2 Pre-AP. Honors weighted option for sophomores. STAAR tested subject. Students will study basic literature and writing strategies with a greater focus on project based learning and a more challenging writing curriculum. Possible book studies will include: Possible book studies include Of Mice and Men and Lord of the Flies. Taught by Mrs. Tatum.
Creative Writing. This course is for any level of student. Students will explore mentor texts which are outside of the traditional genre. They will spend time writing their own creative texts with a recursive practice through peer review. This course not count towards required ELA credits, but rather counts as an elective credit. Taught by Mrs. Tatum.
English 1 Pre-Ap. Honors weighted option for freshman. STAAR tested subject. Possible book studies include Anthem, To Kill a Mockingbird, Romeo and Juliet. Students will study basic literature and writing strategies with a greater focus on project based learning and a more challenging writing curriculum. Taught by Mr. Clark.
Journalism. Available for grades 9 - 12. Students will focus on reporting school news and student life, with the intention of printing it in the Commerce High School’s online newspaper, the Sregit Post. This course does not count towards required ELA credits, but rather counts as an elective credit.”
ESL. English as a Second Language. This course is designed for EL students for extra support in acquisition of the English language. This does not count towards ELA required credits, but is very helpful in assisting students with their other classwork as well as building stronger skills in grammar, mechanics, and higher tiered vocabulary. Taught by Ms. Roden.
Science
Integrated Physics & Chemistry (IPC) - This course covers basic concepts found in chemistry and physics. Some topics will include matter, motion, forces, work, energy, electricity, magnetism, and waves.
Biology - This course includes a study of living organisms and vital processes. Themes that will be covered in this course include scientific skills, ecology, biochemistry, cellular processes, genetics, evolution, classification of organisms, as well as plant and human body systems. The course includes laboratory experiments designed to reinforce course content. It aligns with the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills for Science (TEKS). This course is required to graduate.
Chemistry - This course is designed to help students understand basic chemical principles and master problem-solving skills. Chemical topics covered in the course include basic science concepts, measurements, atomic theory, bonding, stoichiometry, states of matter, solutions, acids & bases, and nuclear chemistry.
Physics - This course covers the basic concepts, principles, and history of physics. Physics concepts in this class will include selected topics in mechanics, heat, light, sound, electricity, magnetism, and modern physics.
Anatomy & Physiology (A&P) - This course will enable students to develop an understanding of the relationships between the structures and functions of the human body.
AP Biology - This course is a college-level biology course load. At the conclusion of the course, students may complete the AP Biology test to receive credit for the first semester of biology in college. Prerequisites: Must be a senior, must have completed biology, chemistry, and physics.
AP Physics - This course is a college-level physics course load. At the conclusion of the course, students may complete the AP Physics test to receive credit for the first semester of physics in college. Prerequisites: Must be a senior, must have completed biology, , and physics.
Social Studies
World History: covers the history of the world and is typically taken by freshmen and sophomores.
Pre-AP World History: is a pre-Advanced Placement history of the world and is typically taken by freshmen and sophomores.
World Geography: is a study of human and physical interactions and is typically taken by freshmen and sophomores.
Pre-AP World Geography: is a pre-Advanced Placement study of human and physical interactions and is typically taken by freshmen and sophomores.
US History: (Since 1877) covers American history since 1877 and is the only STAAR-tested social studies subject. It is typically taken by juniors.
Dual Credit/Pride Prep US History: covers HIST 1301 (Colonization to 1877) and HIST 1302 (1877 to the present day). HIST 1302 covers the STAAR-tested material. Pride Prep US History is only taken by freshmen admitted to that select program, and Dual Credit US History is typically taken by sophomores and juniors.
Psychology: is the study of the mind and human behavior, according to the American Psychological Association. It does not have a specific grade level that typically takes it.
Government/Economics: is the study of American government and wealth accumulation and is typically taken by seniors.
Dual Credit/Pride Prep Government and Economics: includes college government and economics classes. Pride Prep Government and Economics is taken by grades determined by the schedule created by Texas A&M University-Commerce and is only open to students in the select program. Dual Credit Government and Economics is typically taken by seniors.
Electives
Principles of Business, Marketing and Finance--This class is designed for freshman. In Principles of Business, Marketing, and Finance, students gain knowledge and skills in economies and private enterprise systems, the impact of global business, the marketing of goods and services, advertising, and product pricing. Students analyze the sales process and financial management principles. This course allows students to reinforce, apply, and transfer academic knowledge and skills to a variety of interesting and relevant activities, problems, and settings in business, marketing, and finance.
Business Management--Business Management is designed to familiarize students with the concepts related to business management as well as the functions of management, including planning, organizing, staffing, leading, and controlling. Students will also demonstrate interpersonal and project-management skills.
Accounting I--In Accounting I, students will investigate the field of accounting, including how it is impacted by industry standards as well as economic, financial, technological, international, social, legal, and ethical factors. Students will reflect on this knowledge as they engage in the process of recording, classifying, summarizing, analyzing, and communicating accounting information. Students will formulate and interpret financial information for use in management decision making. Accounting includes such activities as bookkeeping, systems design, analysis, and interpretation of accounting information.
Audio/Video Production--In addition to developing technical knowledge and skills needed for success in the Arts, Audio/Video Technology, and Communications Career Cluster®, students will be expected to develop an understanding of the industry with a focus on pre-production, production, post-production audio, and video products.
In Spanish 1 and 2, the Students will engage in conversations, provide and obtain information, express feelings and emotions, and exchange opinions. Students understand and interpret written and spoken language on a variety of topics. Students present information, concepts, and ideas to an audience of listeners or readers on a variety of topics. Also, the students will demonstrate an understanding of the relationship between the practices and perspectives of the culture studied.
ASL,
CTE
Family and Consumer Science
Principles of Human Services: This comprehensive laboratory course covers personal development and management, consumers buying practices, budgeting, decision-making skills, health and well-being, introduction of food preparation, nutrition, etiquette and table setting, clothing selection, and care, basic sewing skills, personal development, promotion of strong families, child development and family housing needs. (9th Grade)
Child Development: This course concentrates on the development, care, guidance and protection of children. Students will look at the growth and development of prenatal, infants, toddlers, and school age children. Students will use the skills obtained in the class to promote the well-being and health development of children and investigate careers related to care and education of children.
Fashion: Careers in fashion span all aspects of the textile and apparel industries. Within this context in addition to developing technical knowledge and skills needed for success in the Arts, Audio/Video Technology, and Communications career Cluster, Students will be expected to develop and understanding of fashion and the textile and apparel industries. We will learn the basic sewing techniques and proficiency in simple alterations.
Fashion 2: More in-depth sewing and advanced Fashion Techniques. Prerequisite: Fashion 1
Arts, A/V Technology and Communications (AAVTC) Career Cluster® focuses on careers in designing, producing, exhibiting, performing, writing, and publishing multimedia content including visual and performing arts and design, journalism, and entertainment services.
Business Management and Administration Career Cluster® focuses on careers in planning, organizing, directing, and evaluating business functions essential to efficient and productive business operations.
Finance Career Cluster® encompasses careers that focus on planning, services for financial and investment planning, banking, insurance, and business financial management. Careers in this field require problem-solving, organization, and communication skills.
Information Technology (IT) Career Cluster® focuses on building linkages in IT occupations for entry level, technical, and professional careers related to the design, development, support, and management of hardware, software, multimedia, and systems integration services.
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Career Cluster® focuses on planning, managing, and providing scientific research and professional and technical services, including laboratory and testing services, and research and development services.
Kinesiology: This course is designed to introduce students to the basic concept of kinesiology. Students will gain an understanding of body mechanics. Physiological functions of muscles and movements, the history of kinesiology, and the psychological impact of sports and athletic performance. Students will also explore careers within the kinesiology field and be able to explain the societal demands for kinesiology related jobs. Students will develop a foundation in Kinesiology 1 that will prepare them for upper-level courses that will dive deeper into the anatomical and physiological functions of the body and provide opportunities for an industry-certified exam such as a certified personal trainer.
Sports Medicine 2: The Sports Medicine II course is designed for athletic training students. It provides an in-depth study and application of the components of sports medicine including but not limited to: basic rehabilitative techniques, therapeutic modalities, wound care, taping and bandaging techniques, prevention, recognition, and care of musculoskeletal injuries, injuries to the young athlete, drugs in sports, modern issues in sports medicine. Individualized and independent assignments will be included in this course. This course will involve outside-of-class time homework and time required working with athletes and athletic teams. Prerequisite: Principles of Health Science/Sports Medicine 1. (11th Grade)
Sports Medicine 3: The Sports Medicine III course is designed for athletic training students. It provides a logical progression for students that have advanced through the sports medicine courses and provide them with an opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills they have gained to athletic injury recognition, evaluation, management, treatment, and rehabilitation through research investigations and applications related to sports medicine. The course will provide opportunities for advanced students to research, investigate, prepare and present article reviews, case studies, research projects, visual poster presentations, and multimedia presentations on instructors approved topics. The athletic training students will continue to perform the assigned duties and responsibilities in the operation of the athletic training room under the supervision of a licensed athletic trainer. These duties will prepare the students to apply the knowledge and skills acquired in the sports medicine course curriculum, The required duties will be portion of the grade earned in the course. This course will prepare the student for introductory athletic training courses at the college/university level. Prerequisite: Sports Medicine 2 and Teacher Approval. (12th Grade)
Arts
Art I is an introduction to the elements of art and principles of design. Students in
Art I will apply the vocabulary of art, experience a variety of studio applications, study artists and art periods and create original works of art. Art Fees for this class are $10.
PRE AP ART is a course that teaches artists/students advance techniques. Students will explore a variety of two-dimensional and three-dimensional media throughout the year to build artistic confidence and creativity. Compositional solutions are also covered. This course will lay the basic groundwork for further study in other art classes, or to help you build your Advanced Placement Portfolio. Art Fees for this class are $20.
Photography I is a general introduction into the principles of design. Students in Photography will apply the vocabulary of art, experience a variety of studio applications, study artists and art periods and create original works of art. Art Fees for this class are $20.
AP drawing Studio is a college level course taught in high school. The course emphasizes that art is an ongoing process that involves the student in informed and critical decision making. The student should continually strive toward master in skills, ideas and abilities in 2D design. While studying the elements of art and principles of design in this class, the student will have an opportunity to compile a portfolio of their best work for submission and review by the College Board. The body of work submitted for the portfolio may include works created prior to and outside of this AP course. Students will submit the portfolio in May: submissions will be in the form of digital submissions and actual work. Art Fees for this class are $50.
Theatre Arts 1. This year-long course is an overview of Theatre Arts. Students will learn about most aspects of Theatre: acting, design, lighting, sound, directing, theatre history, and dramatic literature. This course meets the fine arts credit for graduation.
Children’s Theatre*. This semester-long, advanced Theatre class produces a children’s play that will be toured to CES and ACW. This is a good way for students to gain theatre production experience if they cannot participate in extracurricular Theatre. Prerequisite: Theatre Arts 1.
Theatrical Production*. This semester-long, advanced Theatre class focuses on the tech skills necessary to produce a play. Prerequisite: Theatre Arts 1.
*Children’s Theatre and Theatrical Production are usually taken in sequence with Children’s Theatre in the Fall and Theatrical Production in the Spring. Together, these courses comprise a year’s elective or fine arts credit.
Theatrical Production 2. This year-long, advanced class is designed for students to explore areas in theatre production of their choosing. This course counts as an elective. Prerequisite: Theatre Arts 1.
THE 1310: Intro to Theatre. This dual credit course is offered through TAMUC. The semester long class is an exploratory course of the fundamentals of theatre production from the point of view of an audience member and as a member of a production company. Students will experience dramatic literature in several formats, including close reading of play scripts and live performances. Students will analyze and critique those experiences, both in writing and in class discussions. Prerequisite: TSI.
Ag Science
Agriculture Department Course Offerings
Principles of Agriculture, Food, & Natural Resources (1 credit)
Animal Science Option
2-3 Credits from: Equine Science (.5 credit), Small Animal Management (.5 credit), Livestock Production (1 credit), Veterinary Medical Applications (1 credit), Professional Standards in Agribusiness (.5 credit) Food Technology & Safety (.5 credit)
0-1 Credits from: Any other CTE funded course
Floriculture Option
2-3 Credits from: Principles & Elements of Floral Design (1 credit), Horticulture Science (1 credit), Greenhouse Operation & Production (1 credit)
0-1 Credits from: Any other CTE funded course
Agricultural Mechanics Option
2-3 Credits from: Ag Mechanics & Metal Technologies (1 credit), Agricultural Power Systems (2 credit), Intro to Welding (1 credit), Agricultural Structures Design & Fabrication (1 credit)
0-1 Credits from: Any other CTE funded course
Manufacturing Option
Intro to Welding (1 credit), Welding 1 PJC Dual Credit (2 credits), Welding 2 PJC Dual Credit (2 credits), Electrical Trades Dual Credit (2 credits)
0-1 Credits from: Any other CTE funded course