High School at SJCS

English I: In English I, students will build on the foundation of 8th Grade English.  They will use those elements to help them develop the skills needed to be the most successful, well-informed, self-sufficient, critical thinkers they can be. English I students read extensively in multiple genres such as fiction, nonfiction, drama, poetry, media literacy, expository, persuasive, and procedural texts.  In addition, an emphasis is placed on persuasive and expository forms of writing such as logical arguments, expressions of opinion, and personal forms of writing.   These forms of writing may include a response to literature, a reflective essay, autobiographical narrative, or research paper. 

English I Honors: English II Honors is designed to provide freshmen with an overview of literary genres to prepare for Advanced Placement courses. Students will read selected short stories, poems, plays, and novels. They will learn the distinctive qualities each possess. To develop their skill in composition, students will write a variety of compositions including paragraphs, multi-paragraph essays, and a literary research project. Vocabulary development will be based on the SAT, and speaking/listening standards will be assessed through various presentations and self-reflection.

Algebra I:  Algebra I is a 2 semester course for 9th graders.  It provides 1 credit.  Prerequisites are: Pre-Algebra. In Algebra I, students will build on the knowledge and skills for mathematics in Grades 6-8, which provide a foundation in linear relationships, number and operations, and proportionality. Students will study linear, quadratic, and exponential functions and their related transformations, equations, and associated solutions. Students will connect functions and their associated solutions in both mathematical and real-world situations. Students will use technology to collect and explore data and analyze statistical relationships. In addition, students will study polynomials of degree one and two, radical expressions, sequences, and laws of exponents. Students will generate and solve linear systems with two equations and two variables and will create new functions through transformations.

Geometry: Geometry involves the study of points, lines, planes and other geometric figures as they relate to our physical world. Students will learn to measure geometric figures and their areas and volumes; develop their logic and inductive and deductive reasoning skills. The relationship between figures and properties that make figures unique will be developed and applied to real world situations. 

Biology I: Biology I is a laboratory-centered course which includes the fundamental concepts of cell chemistry and its structure and function; the chemistry of photosynthesis and respiration; and meiosis, mitosis and genetics. The basic biological kingdoms of animals and plants are studied from the laboratory view using microscopes, dissection, and experiments. Also included are the systems of human biology and ecology.  Students will also complete a science fair project as part of the course.

Biology I Honors: Honors biology is a laboratory-centered course which includes the fundamental concepts of cell chemistry and its structure and function; the chemistry of photosynthesis and respiration; and meiosis, mitosis and genetics. The basic biological kingdoms of animals and plants are studied from the laboratory view using microscopes and experiments. Also included are the systems of human biology and ecology.  The honors biology class is fast paced and taught in great depth.  Students will also complete a science fair project during the course of the year.  Honors students will also read two novels, including The Double Helix by James Watson about the discovery of the structure of DNA.

This course challenges students to make connections between physical and human geography, to compare and contrast information, and to make connections between different regions and cultures. Students will explore current geographic issues through case studies, primary sources, projects, and technology-based research. Units covered include: The United States and Canada; Latin America; Europe; Russia and the Republics; Africa; Southwest Asia; South Asia; East Asia; Southeast Asia, Oceania, and Antarctica.

At a minimum, this course will cover the following topics: What is the Bible?; How Can We Know God? Revelation, Inspiration, and Vocation; What is Salvation History?; God Calls the Early Leaders of Israel; Israel’s Response to the Covenant under the Judges and Kings, The Prophets: Bearers of Challenge and Hope; Jesus Fulfills the Covenant; The first Christians: Witnesses to the New Covenant; What is Revelation?; Who is God?; Who is Jesus?; Jesus’ Relationships with Mary and the Disciples; Jesus Teaches What it Means to Love God and Others; Jesus Models What it Means to Love God and Others; Jesus the Savior; Faith and Discipleship: A Personal Response to God.

English II: In English II students will build on the foundation of English I.  They will use those elements to help them develop the skills needed to be the most successful, well-informed, self-sufficient, critical thinkers they can be. English II students read extensively in multiple genres of World Literature such as fiction, nonfiction, drama, poetry, media literacy, expository, persuasive, and procedural texts.  In addition, an emphasis is placed on persuasive and expository forms of writing such as logical arguments, expressions of opinion, and personal forms of writing. These forms of writing may include a response to literature, a reflective essay, autobiographical narrative, or research paper.

English II Honors: This course provides sophomores with an overview of stylistic authors’ choices to prepare for Advanced Placement courses. Students will read teacher and self selected short stories, poems, plays, and novels. They will learn the distinctive authors’ styles presented in the texts. To develop their composition skills, students will write a variety of compositions including timed essays, multi-paragraph essays, and a literary research project. Vocabulary development will be based on the SAT, and speaking/listening standards will be assessed through various presentations and self-reflection.

Geometry: Geometry involves the study of points, lines, planes and other geometric figures as they relate to our physical world. Students will learn to measure geometric figures and their areas and volumes; develop their logic and inductive and deductive reasoning skills. The relationship between figures and properties that make figures unique will be developed and applied to real world situations.

Algebra II Honors: Algebra II honors is a 2 semester course for 10th graders.  It provides 1 credit.  Prerequisites are: Algebra I and Geometry. In Algebra II, students will build on the knowledge and skills for mathematics in Kindergarten-Grade 8 and Algebra I. Students will broaden their knowledge of quadratic functions, exponential functions, and systems of equations. Students will study logarithmic, square root, cubic, cube root, absolute value, rational functions, and their related equations. Students will connect functions to their inverses and associated equations and solutions in both mathematical and real-world situations. In addition, students will extend their knowledge of data analysis and numeric and algebraic methods.

Chemistry: God has created a most complex and fascinating world in which to live, investigate, and discover.  Chemistry is the study of the physical and chemical properties of matter and the interaction of atoms and molecules in chemical reactions. Topics of study include dimensional analysis, atomic and molecular structure, the periodic table, states of matter, chemical bonding, stoichiometry, and the gas laws.  The students will apply the concepts learned in the classroom to hands-on lab activities and written assignments designed to encourage problem solving and critical thinking. Students are required to hypothesize, design, implement, experiment, analyze, and present a Chemistry based Science Fair Project.

Chemistry Honors: God has created a most complex and fascinating world in which to live, investigate, and discover.  Chemistry is the study of the physical and chemical properties of matter and the interaction of atoms and molecules in chemical reactions. This course includes an in-depth study of dimensional analysis, atomic and molecular structure, quantum mechanics, VSEPR theory, chemical bonding, stoichiometry, the gas laws, thermodynamics, and nuclear reactions.  The students will apply the concepts learned in the classroom to hands-on lab activities, inquiry-based projects, and written assignments designed to encourage problem solving and critical thinking.  Students are required to hypothesize, design, implement, experiment, analyze, and present a Chemistry Science Fair Project of Honors caliber.

The course in World History focuses on the development of human interaction and the global processes that have shaped history from the prehistoric era to the present. Students will be engaged through a variety of sources including primary source documents, maps, simulations, plays, debates, videos, lectures, and computer-technology assignments. Units covered include: Beginnings of Civilization; New Directions in Government and Society; An Age of Exchange and Encounter; Connecting Hemispheres; Absolutism to Revolution; Industrialism and the Race for Empire; The World at War; Perspectives on the Present.

The fall semester is a course on soteriology. “Soteriology” is the study of salvation (also known as “redemption”). In this course, we will be discussing the goodness of God’s creation and the mystery of our fall from grace (Original Sin). We will explore the mystery of our salvation starting with God’s promise of a savior, and how that promise was fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ. We will discuss how Jesus accomplished our salvation through his suffering, death, and glorious Resurrection. Finally, we will assess the implications of our redemption in our moral behavior and in our relationship to God.

The spring semester is a course on ecclesiology.  “Ecclesiology” is the study of – and our understanding of – the Church. In this course, we will be discussing the origin of the Church in the Father, the founding of the Church by the Son, and the manifestation of the Church by the Spirit working through the Apostles. We will explore the images of the Church found in both Scripture and Tradition. We will study and understand the four “marks” of the Church (one, holy, catholic, and apostolic). Finally, we will assess the implications of the Church both for the world and for the life of the believer.

English III: This course is a survey of American literature. Students will read four to five major literary works and several other smaller, related works, such as poems and short stories. Students will also build skill in essential forms of high school-level writing and speaking, especially literary analysis and technical, argumentative, informational, and creative writing. Course materials and instruction will satisfy the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills standards, or TEKS, for English Language Arts and Reading.

English III AP: The AP English Language and Composition course focuses on the development and revision of evidence-based analytic and argumentative writing, the rhetorical analysis of nonfiction texts, and the decisions writers make as they compose and revise. Students evaluate, synthesize, and cite research to support their arguments. Additionally, they read and analyze rhetorical elements and their effects in nonfiction texts—including images as forms of text—from a range of disciplines and historical periods. The AP English Language and Composition course aligns with an introductory college-level rhetoric and writing curriculum.

English 1301 Dual Credit (Juniors): Intensive study of and practice in writing processes, from invention and researching to drafting, revising, and editing, both individually and collaboratively. Emphasis on effective rhetorical choices, including audience, purpose, arrangement, and style. Focus on writing the academic essay as a vehicle for learning, communicating, and critical analysis. This writing-intensive first-semester freshman composition course includes (1) study of and practice in all phases of the writing process, both individually and collaboratively, and (2) study of and practice in the strategies and techniques for developing research-based expository and persuasive texts. Essays including a 1500-word documented library research-based paper, are required. 48 contact hours. Credit: Three semester hours. Students must be college reading ready according to Texas Success Initiatives Standards (TSI).

English 1302 Dual Credit (Juniors): Intensive study of and practice in the strategies and techniques for developing research-based expository and persuasive texts. Emphasis on effective and ethical rhetorical inquiry; teamwork; critical reading of verbal, visual, and multimedia texts; systematic evaluation, synthesis, and documentation of information sources; and critical thinking about evidence and conclusions. This reading and writing intensive prerequisite for sophomore English offerings further develops the analytical, thinking, and research skills underlying academic success through the study of literature. The student’s writing of genre-based essays, including researched papers, reinforces the thinking skills associated with interpretation, explication, evaluation, analysis, and synthesis. Essays, including a 1500-2000 word documented library research-based paper, are required. 48 contact hours. Credit: Three semester hours. Students must be college reading ready according to Texas Success Initiatives Standards (TSI).

Algebra II: Algebra II is a two-semester course for 10th or 11th graders that have successfully completed Geometry and Algebra 1.  It provides one math credit toward high school graduation requirements. In Algebra 2, students will build on the foundations begun when studying math in previous years.  You will continue to explore algebraic concepts and relationships and study the relationship of functions and equations to math.  Students will also see the continued connections between algebra and geometry as they use math to solve various types of problems.

Pre-Calculus Honors: Pre-calculus Honors is the preparation for calculus. The course approaches topics from a function point of view, where appropriate, and is designed to strengthen and enhance conceptual understanding and mathematical reasoning used when modeling and solving mathematical and real-world problems. Students systematically work with functions and their multiple representations. The study of Precalculus deepens students' mathematical understanding and fluency with algebra and trigonometry and extends their ability to make connections and apply concepts and procedures at higher levels. Students investigate and explore mathematical ideas, develop multiple strategies for analyzing complex situations, and use technology to build understanding, make connections between representations, and provide support in solving problems.

Physics: Our God has created a most complex and fascinating world in which to live, investigate, and discover.  This course is designed to stimulate interest in the most basic of all sciences.  Physics is the study of motion, energy, forces, matter, light, sound, and heat.  The students will apply the concepts learned in the classroom to hands-on lab activities, inquiries, projects, and written assignments designed to encourage problem solving and critical thinking. Students are required to hypothesize, design, implement, experiment, analyze, and present a Physics based Science Fair Project.  

Physics AP: Our God has created a most complex and fascinating world in which to live, investigate and discover.  Topics in Advanced Placement Physics include the accelerated and comprehensive study of kinematics, dynamics, circular motion, universal gravitation, simple harmonic and rotational motion, momentum and energy, mechanical waves, electrostatics, and circuits.  The students will apply the concepts learned in the classroom to hands-on lab activities, inquiry-based projects, and written assignments designed to encourage the application of equations, critical thinking, and problem solving. Students are required to hypothesize, design, implement, experiment, analyze, and present a Physics Science Fair Project of Advanced Placement caliber. This course culminates with the AP Physics 1 Algebra based exam at the end of the second semester.  Prior knowledge of geometry, trig, and algebra are prerequisites for this course.

American History: This course follows American History from early colonization through the present, with specific emphasis put on Civil War Reconstruction to the present. We will examine the short, as well as the long-term effects of major events and figures. In addition, we will link issues from the past to various issues in the present to help show the importance.

History 1301 Dual Credit: A survey of United States history that begins with the migrations of people to the western hemisphere and continues through the Civil War and Reconstruction period. The course focuses on the periods of discovery, colonization, revolution, and nation building. Material presented covers a wide variety of topics encompassing social, cultural, intellectual, military and political history. 48 contact hours. Credit: Three semester hours. Prerequisite(s): Students must be college reading ready according to Texas Success Initiatives Standards (TSI). Please see the Catalog section under Texas Success Initiative.

History 1302 Dual Credit: A survey of United States history from 1877 to the present. The course covers industrial, social, and political problems from 1877 to the emergence of the United States as a world power in the twentieth century. Material presented covers a wide variety of topics including the Gilded Age, the Progressive Period, World War I, the Depression and the New Deal, World War II, the Cold War, and contemporary events. 48 contact hours. Credit: Three semester hours. Prerequisite(s): Students must be college reading ready according to Texas Success Initiatives Standards (TSI). Please see the Catalog section under Texas Success Initiative.

The fall semester is a course that covers the Liturgy and Sacraments of the Church.  We will begin by discussing the sacramental nature of the Church.  We will then explore the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Eucharist (Sacraments of Initiation); the Sacraments of Reconciliation and Anointing of the Sick (Sacraments of Healing); and finally, the Sacraments of Holy Orders and Matrimony (Sacraments at the Service of Communion). The spring semester is a course that covers living a moral life in, by, and through Jesus Christ.  We will begin by discussing God’s plan for us and our response to that plan.  We will then explore the consequences of sin and its destructive role in our response to God’s plan.  Next, we will reflect on how the grace of Jesus Christ allows us to grow in virtue so as to fulfill the universal call to holiness.  We will then explore the Commandments as the means to living that universal call to holiness.  We will conclude by examining the role our conscience plays, and the role of the Church in forming our consciences.

English IV: This course is a survey of British literature. Students will read four to five major literary works and several other smaller, related works, such as poems and short stories. Students will also build skill in essential forms of high school-level writing and speaking, especially literary analysis and technical, argumentative, informational, and creative writing. Course materials and instruction will satisfy the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills standards, or TEKS, for English Language Arts and Reading.

English IV AP: The AP English Literature and Composition course focuses on reading, analyzing, and writing about imaginative literature (fiction, poetry, drama) from various periods. Students engage in close reading and critical analysis of imaginative literature to deepen their understanding of the ways writers use language to provide both meaning and pleasure. As they read, students consider a work’s structure, style, and themes, as well as its use of figurative language, imagery, and symbolism. Writing assignments include expository, analytical, and argumentative essays that require students to analyze and interpret literary works. The AP English Literature and Composition course aligns with an introductory college-level literature and writing curriculum.

Pre-Calculus: The course approaches topics from a function point of view, where appropriate, and is designed to strengthen and enhance conceptual understanding and mathematical reasoning used when modeling and solving mathematical and real-world problems. Students systematically work with functions and their multiple representations. The study of Precalculus deepens students' mathematical understanding and fluency with algebra and trigonometry and extends their ability to make connections and apply concepts and procedures at higher levels. Students investigate and explore mathematical ideas, develop multiple strategies for analyzing complex situations, and use technology to build understanding, make connections between representations, and provide support in solving problems.

Financial Math: Financial Mathematics is a course about personal money management in which we will integrate career and post-secondary education planning into financial decision making. Students will apply critical-thinking skills to analyze personal financial decisions based on current and projected economic factors.  This course focuses on planning, services for financial and investment planning, banking, and insurance. 

Calculus AP: The topics we cover are aligned with everything that is outlined for the Calculus AB as it appears in the AP Calculus Course Description, including applications of Work, Mass, Pressure and Surface Areas of Revolution. The primary textbook is “Calculus of a Single Variable”, 8th edition by Ron Larson, Robert Hostetler, & Bruce Edwards. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company, January 2005. All students will have and will use the graphing calculator as a tool to assist in the exploration and \onstruction of these concepts emphasizing the numerical, graphical and analytical processes inherent to this tool. The objective of this course is for students to do well on the AP Exam and be prepared for future courses of study.

Environmental Systems: Environmental Systems is a year-long course for senior level students designed to show thematic connections between a variety of science disciplines including biology, chemistry, and physics. It gives students a coherent and realistic picture of the applications of a variety of scientific concepts as they manifest in our ever-changing environment. During this year of environmental systems, students will focus on natural resources, ecosystem dynamics, human population growth, and health concerns. The aim of this course is to increase student’s knowledge of the environmental challenges of today, while continuing to cultivate scientific critical thinking skills.

Anatomy and Physiology Honors: God has created a most complex and fascinating world in which to live, investigate and discover. The Anatomy and Physiology Honors course serves as an introduction to mammalian gross anatomy using the human and fetal pig as a model species.  Laboratory dissection, medical nomenclature, vertebrate skeletons, radiographs, histology and the application of anatomy to clinical situations are included in this course study.  The physiological aspect describes the function of each component within the organ systems.  Laboratory activities reinforce and provide supplemental information related to the lecture topics.  The body systems are presented in a practical and comprehensive manner, especially benefitting those pursuing any health care career or related education in the field of science. Numerous opportunities arise to glorify God’s magnificent design of the human body and study His Eucharistic miracles, Shroud of Turin, incorruptibility of the saints, tilma bearing the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe, and after-death experiences. Students are required to hypothesize, design, implement, experiment, analyze, and present an Anatomy and Physiology Science Fair Project of Honors caliber.

Government: In Government, the focus is on the principles and beliefs upon which the United States was founded and on the structure, functions, and powers of government at the national, state, and local levels. This course is the culmination of the civic and governmental content and concepts studied from Kindergarten through required secondary courses. Students learn major political ideas and forms of government in history. A significant focus of the course is on the U.S. Constitution, its underlying principles and ideas, and the form of government it created. Students analyze major concepts of republicanism, federalism, checks and balances, separation of powers, popular sovereignty, and individual rights and compare the U.S. system of government with other political systems.

Government 2305 Dual Credit: Government 2305 is a study of the organization, functions, and administration of the several branches and agencies of the national government, including a study of the federal constitution. The primary factors considered relate to the three branches of government — judicial, executive, legislative — major historical documents, the events that shaped the nation, and current events. We will emphasize the interaction of these subsystems. 48 contact hours. Credit: Three semester hours. Students must be college reading ready according to Texas Success Initiatives Standards (TSI).

Economics: Economics is the study of how individuals and societies satisfy their unlimited wants with their limited resources.  The main focus of this course is America's free enterprise system and how it works.  It also will compare it to other economic systems around the world.  Other topics include the concepts of scarcity and opportunity costs, supply and demand, the right to own property and types of business ownership. 

Economics 2301 Dual Credit: An analysis of the economy as a whole including measurement and determination of Aggregate Demand and Aggregate Supply, national income, inflation, and unemployment. Other topics include international trade, economic growth, business cycles, and fiscal policy and monetary policy. 48 contact hours. Credit: Three semester hours. Students must be college reading ready according to Texas Success Initiatives Standards (TSI).

The fall semester course will cover the Church’s Social Teaching.  We will start by studying the three most relevant Commandments:  7th, 8th, and 10th.  We will move on to discussing God’s plan for his people.  We will then explore the principles of the Church’s social teaching.  After analyzing major themes in Catholic social teaching, we will explore how sin affects not only individuals, but also institutions and whole societies. The spring semester course will cover the Church’s relationship to other Christian and non-Christian religious traditions.  We will start by discussing the relationship between God’s revelation and the Catholic Church.  We will then explore the Catholic Church’s relationship to other Christian churches and ecclesial communities.  We will move on to studying the Catholic Church’s relationship to other non-Christian religions, paying close attention to Her special relationship with Judaism.  We will conclude with a study of the Church’s mission of proclaiming the Good News and dialogue with other Christian and religious traditions.

Health & Physical Education: Physical Education, Athletics (Sports)
Fine Arts: Art I-IV, Band
Technology: Yearbook, Digital Media, Broadcast Journalism
Foreign Language: Spanish I-IV, Latin I-IV
Other: Forensic Science, Psychology, Sociology, Senior Portfolio

Junior and seniors have the opportunity to take dual-credit courses at Blinn College. Students in 11th grade can take dual-credit English and History. Students in 12th grade can take dual-credit Government & Economics. You must be approved and meet the requirements before enrolling in these courses. For more information about Dual Credit, please contact school counselor, April Kleiber, at [email protected]

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