Four units of English are required for graduation.  One English course must be selected each year from the normal sequence of English I, II, III, and IV. Electives may not be substituted for the required English courses

College Prep English I-IV

The College and Career Ready English program fits the needs of the majority of students.  The curriculum includes the study of grammar, composition, research, analysis, and literature.

Honors English I-IV

This advanced-level program is designed for students who excel in language arts studies and who intend to pursue higher education. It encompasses a more extensive analysis of the content areas and skills emphasized in the College and Career Ready level. Placement in this program is determined by a teacher recommendation and a combination of assessments taken in the eighth grade.

Students are required to earn credits in World History/Geography, U.S. History, Economics/Personal Finance, and U.S. Government to graduate.

World History

This course involves the study and understanding of the history of our earth and the people, places, and things in it. Political, economic, religious, and militaristic aspects of history will be examined.  

Advanced Placement (AP) Human Geography

The AP Human Geography course is equivalent to an introductory college-level course in human geography. The course introduces students to the systematic study of patterns and processes that have shaped human understanding, use, and alteration of Earth’s surface. Students employ spatial concepts and landscape analysis to examine socio-economic organization and its environmental consequences. They also learn about the methods and tools geographers use in their research and applications.  At the end of the course, students take a national standardized exam, with the possibility of earning college credit based on the student’s score and post-secondary policy

Dual Credit American History II

College-level course taught at the high-school level by trained high-school teachers. Course learning objectives are developed by Tennessee high school and college faculty in order to ensure alignment with post-secondary standards. Students will cover the time periods from Reconstruction through the recent past.

United States Government

This course is designed to give students a critical perspective on American politics and government at local, state and national levels.  It will explore general concepts used to interpret American government procedures.  Emphases will include an understanding of the foundations of government, major provisions of the Constitution, powers and duties of the legislative, executive, and judicial branches, the role of state and local government, political parties, and the election process.  Students will take the graduation requirement, US Civics test, in this course.

Economics & Personal Finance

In this course, students will research and review the study of how businesses, people, and governments use resources. The student will be informed of how personal choices directly influence occupational goals and future earning potential. This course will also cover income, money management, saving, investing, spending, and credit. 

Journalism (Yearbook)

This course is designed for students interested in the field of communication and publishing. Students will produce the yearbook mastering skills of layout and design, interviewing, proofreading, and writing. Students may only apply for journalism as a junior or senior and must go through the selection process during the spring registration period. 

Contemporary Issues

Students will use inquiry skills to examine the issues that impact the contemporary world. Included in the course will be analysis of the historical, cultural, economic, and geographic factors that have raised certain issues to levels of concern in our nation and around the globe. Students will engage in research and problem-solving in order to better understand and assess significant current issues.

Dual Credit Introduction to Sociology

Topics covered in this course include: Origins of Sociology; Theoretical Perspectives and Scientific Research;  Culture;  Groups;  Socialization;   Deviance and Social Control; Economic Stratification;  Race and Ethnicity 9. Sex and Gender 10. Marriage and Family; Education; Religion;  Politics and the Economy;  Globalization and Social Change;  Demography.

ACT Prep

The design of this course is to teach students skills, techniques, and concepts necessary to improve standardized test scores.  Anyone planning to attend college or university should consider taking this course

Drivers Education

Driver Education is designed to meet state requirements for classroom curriculum and in-car driving experience and to provide skills and knowledge related to the safe and proper operation of an automobile.  The course makes student drivers aware of their responsibilities to society in the area of traffic safety, instills respect for traffic laws and law enforcement officers, and helps students develop the proper attitudes necessary for safe driving.  It helps students adopt a strategy for driving that will become the basis for a lifetime of competent driving. Must have a valid driving permit.

Algebra IA & IB (1 credit each)

This course will provide the student with an understanding of the language, notation, and application of algebraic skills.  Topics include linear and quadratic functions, exponents and radicals, polynomials, rational expressions, probability and statistics.  Only the second credit meets the math credit needed for high school graduation. 

Honors Algebra IB

This is a one semester course for students who successfully completed the 8th grade Accelerated Math program. 

Geometry or Honors Geometry

This course provides students with the opportunities to gain information about geometric plane and space, inductive and deductive methods of thinking, relationship between geometric ideas, geometric proofs, and applying deductive methods to mathematical situations. An honors section is available for acceleration and to explore additional topics. (Prerequisite: Algebra I) 

Algebra II or Honors Algebra II

This course extends the concepts and applications of the algebraic process.  Major topics include:  real and complex numbers, relations and functions, exponents and logarithms, quadratic relations, matrices, systems of equations and inequalities, probability and statistics. An honors section is available for acceleration and to explore additional topics.  (Prerequisites: Algebra I and Geometry)

Dual Credit Pre-Calculus

This course is considered an honors course and provides an extension of topics from Geometry and Algebra II as well as additional topics such as polar and parametric equations and vectors.  This course includes an opportunity to take a challenge exam for college credit.  (Prerequisite: Honors Algebra II)

Bridge Math

Bridge math is designed for seniors who have an ACT score below 19. This course is to better prepare students for post-secondary study. This course will revisit concepts previously studied in a new approach; make connections and allow for a more in-depth understanding of topics supporting the foundation for problem solving applications, and understanding application through contextual problem based inquiry. (12th grade students only)

SAILS Math

Designed for students who have scored a 19 or less on the mathematics portion of the ACT.  The curriculum standards of this course have been organized into groups of mathematical skills that will help the student achieve success in a college level mathematics course.  Application of these skills plays a principal role in this course.  Technology will be used to enhance understanding of core concepts and problem solving strategies.  Topics will include diagrammatic, verbal, symbolic, and numeric mathematics.  Applications with geometry, numbers, functions, and data will also be explored.

Honors Calculus

This honors course includes topics from differential calculus such as finding the equation of the tangent of a curve, related rates, curve plotting and maxima and minima.  Integral calculus includes finding the area between curves. (Prerequisite: Pre-calculus or Trigonometry)

Advanced Placement (AP) Calculus AB

AP Calculus AB is roughly equivalent to a first semester college calculus course devoted to topics in differential and integral calculus. The AP course covers topics in these areas, including concepts and skills of limits, derivatives, definite integrals, and the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus. The course teaches students to approach calculus concepts and problems when they are represented graphically, numerically, analytically, and verbally, and to make connections amongst these representations. Students learn how to use technology to help solve problems, experiment, interpret results, and support conclusions.  At the end of the course, students take a national standardized exam, with the possibility of earning college credit based on the student’s score and post-secondary policy.

Dual Credit Probability and Statistics

Topics include methods of sampling, summarizing and displaying data; finding measures of central tendency, variation and position; understanding probability, binomial and normal distributions; constructing confidence intervals, learning the fundamentals of hypothesis testing for both one and two samples; and reviewing concepts of linear regression. 

**Upon completion of this course students will take the State Dual Credit Statistics Exam and students scoring a 75% or above will receive college credit from TBR schools. 

All students must take a minimum of three science courses including Biology, Chemistry, and a 3rd lab science.

Honors Environmental Science or Honors Environmental Science

This course emphasizes ecology, evolution, and classification of living beings. An honors section is available for acceleration and to explore additional topics. This course serves as a prerequisite for Biology I.

Biology I or Honors Biology I

This course emphasizes ecology, evolution, genetics, biochemistry, and the physiology and anatomy of mammals. This course includes lab activities such as population studies, dissections, blood studies, mitosis, meiosis, and classification keys. An honors section is available for acceleration and explores additional topics. 

Physical Science

This course is an introductory course designed to focus on the study of matter and energy. 

Chemistry I or Honors Chemistry I

This course provides students with a rigorous study of the composition, properties, and changes associated with matter. Lab work is an integral part of the course. Major topics include classifications of matter, atomic structure, understanding the periodic table, compound writing, and chemical reactions. (Prerequisites: Algebra I and Biology I)

Honors Biology II

Biology II is an extension of Biology I. Cell structure and function, ecology, genetics, biochemistry, cell processes, vertebrate anatomy, and systems are explored.  (Prerequisites: Biology I and Chemistry)

Honors Anatomy & Physiology

This course provides students with exploratory and advanced activities in the structures and functions of the components of the human body.  The content will include anatomical terminology, cells and tissues, skeletal system, muscle system, nervous system, special sensory organs, endocrine system, circulatory system, respiratory system, immune system, and disease process. (Prerequisite:  Biology II)

Honors Chemistry II

Chemistry II is an extension of Chemistry I. Topics includes a further discussion in more detail of those ideas presented in Chemistry I with additional material of a more complex nature introduced for further enrichment.  (Prerequisite:  Chemistry I)

Scientific Research

Scientific Research is a course in which the student conducts in-depth science research projects and presents his or her findings using a variety of media and/or presentations. Students will engage in many hands-on, inquiry based scientific investigations that may require independent field-work.  (Prerequisite:  Chemistry II)

AP Biology

AP Biology is an introductory college-level biology course. Students cultivate their understanding of biology through inquiry-based investigations as they explore the following topics: evolution, cellular processes—energy and communication, genetics, information transfer, ecology, and interactions.  At the end of the course, students take a national standardized exam, with the possibility of earning college credit based on the student’s score and post-secondary policy.

One Fine Art credit is required for graduation.

Visual Art I

This course is designed to aid the student in understanding the concepts, skills, body of knowledge, and general appreciation of works of art from represented historical time periods and cultures. The content of this course will be classroom activities involving a variety of art forms and media. 

Visual Art II

This course is designed to be continued application of the principles and elements of art through classroom activities, while entailing an array of two-dimensional art lessons. (Prerequisite: Art I)(teacher recommendation required) 

AP Studio Art

In this course, students produce a college-level quality portfolio, demonstrating artistic investigation and a breadth of work. The Drawing portfolio addresses issues such as line quality, light and shade, rendering of form, composition, surface manipulation, the illusion of depth, and mark-making. Portfolios are evaluated based on standardized scoring descriptors aligned with skills and understanding developed in college foundation courses.  College credit is possible based on the student’s score and post-secondary policy. (teacher recommendation required)

Concert Band

This course involves preparation for performances in music festivals and school concerts. 

Marching Band

This course begins with basic beginning marching instruction, and progresses to assembling and coordinating a marching band show. The marching band performs at football games, competitions, parades, and other school and civic events. This course will substitute a physical education credit.

Theater Arts

This course is designed to explore the central theme-drama is a reflection of the society in which it exists.  This introductory course acquaints the student with theater literature, history, and productions.  It offers the student experience in performing pantomimes, improvisations, monologues, acting scenes, and short plays.  

Theater Arts II

All of the artistic and technical aspects of producing a play are explored.  While ensemble acting is the focus of this advanced acting class, auditioning techniques, improvisation, design, and the business of theatre are included in the context of the course.(Audition required)

Vocal Music

Through this course, students are exposed to high-quality music of all cultures and times. They will understand and develop musical concepts and assess themselves individually and as a group, learning to receive and process constructive criticism, which leads to independent self-correction and decision-making. 

Advanced Vocal Music

This course will provide an expansion of the skills taught in Vocal Music. The student will develop more skills for performance in singing and choreography. (Audition required)

Music History

This is a listening class designed to expose students to a multitude of styles, genres, and historical periods of music. Through listening, lecture, classroom discussion, and other activities, students will learn how to effectively listen to music to gain a greater appreciation for its craftsmanship. The class will begin with a unit on the basic elements of music, then with the history of Early European music, jazz, rock and roll, move up through modern popular music. Students will also be learning how to read music through music theory lessons.

All students must complete a unit in Wellness and an additional .5 unit in physical education.

Lifetime Wellness

This course encompasses both physical education and health curriculums. It focuses on the principles of lifetime wellness, not solely on activities and sports. Some health topics covered are personal hygiene, human anatomy, diet, proper exercise, bone health, sickness prevention, and sexually transmitted diseases. 

Physical Education

This course offers skills necessary for the development of each individual student. It is designed to guide students toward their maximum mental, social, and physical development. Progressive, interactive games and activities will be presented.  *Other courses and activities can substitute for this credit. These include school-sponsored sports and Marching Band.

Advanced Physical Education

This course is a continuation of physical education, but with more sport-focused activity. It focuses on the development of the student’s athletic abilities in specific areas such as hand-eye coordination and improving abilities in a certain game or activity. It also offers improvement activities such as weight lifting.

All students must complete 2 credits in the same foreign language. 

Latin I and II

These courses are designed to teach concepts of usage, form, and structure of language in order to enable the student to read and translate Latin. This course also motivates students to appreciate historical and cultural values of Rome.

Spanish I and II

These courses develop the language skills of listening, speaking, and writing. The emphasis of these courses is on the drilling of beginning pronunciation and learning of basic vocabulary and grammar. Students will also explore the similarities and differences between Spanish and American cultures.

Dual Enrollment

• The Dual Enrollment Program, a state-approved, cooperative community venture provided by Walters State Community College, offers qualified high school students an opportunity to receive college credit at relatively low cost while they complete their secondary education.  It is designed to supplement and enrich students' high school experiences by providing access to collegiate education without interrupting their normal high school activities.  Thus, the Dual Enrollment Program provides an ideal transition from high school to college for eligible students.  The program has been successfully implemented in several school systems within the Walters State service area.This program is available to junior and senior students who have taken the ACT during their sophomore or junior year and have earned a composite score of 19 or above.  The cost of the classes and textbooks are the responsibility of the students which can be supplemented with state dual enrollment funds and local scholarships.

  The following options are available, and if classes are passed, students may earn one high school credit plus six college credits for each class taken.  Students must have a 3.0 GPA or a 21 on the ACT to qualify for dual enrollment:

  • Freshman Composition I and II
  • English elective - Western World Literature I and II (18 on the English subtest of the ACT, 19 on the reading subtest of the ACT;  Prerequisite: Comp 1 and 2)
  • Probability & Statistics 
  • Speech 
  • Psychology 
  • Music Appreciation

  Other dual enrollment classes are available on WSCC campus.  See your counselor for more information.

WSCC Courses

English Composition I and II

Seniors Only
A composition course in argumentative writing, including intervention, organization, style, and revision.  Critical reading and thinking will be addressed through student writing.  Research skills and documentation will be introduced.  

Speech

An introductory speech-communication course that focuses on skills development in the areas of interpersonal, small group, and public communication.  Special emphasis is given to public speaking.  

Psychology

This course is an introduction to the guiding principles and primary approaches of the study of human and animal behavior.  This broad-based course includes the following topics:  psychobiology, conditioning, learning, sensation, perception, motivation, emotion, intelligence, personality, lifespan development, abnormal behavior, social psychology, group processes, stress, and career development.

Music Appreciation

An introduction to music through listening to recordings of standard works, lectures, recitals, and other media to encourage cultural development. 

Probability and Statistics

An introduction to probability and statistics without calculus including descriptive statistics, probability distributions, the normal distribution, testing hypotheses, the t-test, and estimates and sample sizes.  Prerequisite: Two years of high school Algebra. 

Dual Enrollment College

• The Sevier County School System and WSCC have partnered to provide an opportunity for students to earn a high school diploma and an Associate of Science degree and/or college credits simultaneously.  Many students will choose to simply take a few dual enrollment classes, while others will make the commitment to obtain an Associate of Science degree.  This program is available to juniors and seniors with an ACT score greater than or equal to 19 or a minimum of a 3.0 grade point average after the sophomore year are eligible to apply for enrollment.  Applications and full guidelines are available in the guidance office. Students attending classes on the WSCC campus are expected to provide their own transportation and to pay tuition costs.