Cardinal Gibbons High School is dedicated to providing our students with a strong formation of Catholic values, academic excellence, lifelong learning and a commitment to service.
VISION
Elevating faith and academics.
Accreditations and Affiliations:
Cardinal Gibbons High School is accredited by COGNIA and maintains membership in the National Catholic Education Association (NCEA), the Florida Catholic Conference (FCC) the Broward County Non-Public School Association (BCNPSA) and the College Board.
Cardinal Gibbons is recognized as an Apple Distinguished School.
Section
2026-2027 CURRICULUM GUIDE
Section
Academic Grading
Weighted Quality Points
Cumulative GPA
Remediation of Courses
Courses From Accreditated Institutions Other Than CGHS
Course Credit Policies
Class Percentile, Grade Point Average, and Honor Roll
Online Course
Grade Forigveness Policy
Course Selection Process
Advanced Placement (AP) AP Capstone Diploma
Dual Enrollment
Excelsior Program
Curriculum Overview: College Preparatory and Honors Level
Cardinal Gibbons Engineering Design Process (CGEDP)
Miami Frost Center STEM Challenge
National STEM Honor Society
Robotics Course and Club
FIU Sea Levels Solution Day
STEM Week Firetruck Engineering Egg Drop
AI Task Force
Campus Ministry Retreat Program Overview Section
Bootcamp
Student Mentoring Program Links to Learning Peer Tutoring Program
Social, Emotional, Learning Support - SEL TEAM
Exceptional Student Education
Calasanz Program
ACADEMIC POLICIES
ACADEMIC GRADING
All students will receive a syllabus from the appropriate teacher indicating all grading policies and classroom procedures. Students are responsible for adhering to the requirements of the course, including the assignment submission policies. If you have questions about how an assignment is graded, please contact the teacher of the course, followed by the department chair.
GRADING CRITERIA
90-100 A
80-89 B
70-79 C
60-69 D
0-59 F
Weighted Quality Point Table
CUMULATIVE GPA
The cumulative grade point average (GPA) is based on all high school courses taken. Students must still take the required high school credits by subject at Cardinal Gibbons High School (such as four years of math, four years of english, and three years of science). Beginning with the Class of 2028, all high school courses taken before 9th grade will receive credit but the GPA will not be calculated into the GPA.
Beginning with the Class of 2028, all high school courses taken before 9th grade will receive credit but the grades will not be calculated into the GPA.
REMEDIATION OF COURSES
Required courses with a final grade of F MUST be remediated in order to return to CGHS the following year. Courses with a grade of D may also be remediated to improve the student’s grade point average.
Remediated Honors and Advanced Placement courses will only receive credit for a college prep class.
COURSES FROM ACCREDITED INSTITUTIONS OTHER THAN CGHS
A student who wishes to take an elective for credit must have prior approval from the Director of School Counseling and College Advising and Administration. Note that all course names, credits, and grades are recorded on the student’s transcript. Only required remediation courses that are not offered by CGHS may be taken through ADOM Catholic virtual. If the course is not offered through ADOM virtual, then approval from Administration is required. FLVS courses are no longer permitted
COURSE CREDIT POLICIES
The minimum number of courses required for each student is seven (7) per semester. Grades earned for courses beyond seven (7) must appear on the report card. Any student who received a semester grade of F in a required course at either the end of the first or the second semesters is required to attend Summer School and remediate the failed course. The student must earn the missing credits before the student may re-enroll for the subsequent school year.
ACADEMIC POLICIES
CLASS PERCENTILE, GRADE POINT AVERAGE, AND HONOR ROLL
CLASS PERCENTILE
Percentile is based on the cumulative weighted grade point average (GPA) and is calculated by decile scores. For instance, students who rank in the top ten percent of the class qualify for decile. In accordance with the Archdiocese of Miami, CGHS does not rank students.
GRADE POINT AVERAGE
All courses are assigned weights or “Quality Points” according to their challenge and demand. (See Weighted Quality Point Table on page 5). The cumulative weighted GPA is determined by dividing the total Quality Points by the total attempted high school credits. Quality points do not affect the amount of credit given per course. It is important to note that one-quarter credit is given for each quarter-credit course, one-half credit is granted for each semester course, and one full credit is granted for each year’s course of successful academic work.
HONOR ROLL
At the end of each quarter, the honor roll is announced on the student report card. Students with a weighted GPA of 3.75 to 3.99, along with no grade below a “B,” will receive Second Honors. Students with a weighted GPA of 4.00 and above, along with no grade lower than a “B,” will receive First Honors.
ONLINE COURSE
Students must complete one half (0.5) credit online course as a graduation requirement. All official online coursework must be completed through CGHS or Carlos Acutis Virtual Academy (CAVA) (previously known as ADOM Virtual School). Students must contact the Office of School Counseling and College Advising to receive a complete list of available classes and course approval.
Starting with the class of 2027, CGHS students will fulfill this requirement with the required personal financial literacy course taken at CGHS.
GRADE FORGIVENESS POLICY
As authorized by Section 1003.43 (5) (e) 1, Florida Statutes, Cardinal Gibbons High School has established a policy for course forgiveness. The student must remediate the course within the year it occurs during Cardinal Gibbons High School Summer School. If a student repeats a course, then the forgiven course is awarded no credit toward the 28 credits required for graduation. The forgiven course must remain on the student’s transcript, but it is not calculated in the student’s grade point average. The opportunity for course forgiveness must be limited to replacing a grade of D or F with a grade of C or higher earned subsequently in the same or comparable course. If a student remediates an advanced placement or honors level course, then the new grade will be calculated in the grade point average using the standard scale on the weighted quality point table.
COURSE SELECTION PROCESS
Course selection for each school year begins after the beginning of the second semester, typically in February. Students receive information regarding requirements, elective opportunities, and registration procedures. Student placement depends on academic history, standardized test scores, teacher recommendations, and departmental review. Students receive their final schedule with teacher assignments the week before school starts in the fall.
Student and/or parent-initiated schedule change requests are allowed during specific times of the school year. If approved, these requests are assessed a change fee as noted on the schedule change form. Additional fees for book licenses may be assessed as noted on the schedule change form.
Requests to change a course selected during the scheduling season for the upcoming school year are permitted through the first week of classes in the fall only. All schedule change forms require a student, parent, teacher/ department chair, counselor, and administrator approval. Depending on the nature of the change, signatures from the department chairperson and the student’s teacher for that subject may be required. Requests for changes based solely on a change of teacher are not permitted. Schedule change request forms are available in the Office of School Counseling and College Advising. This policy is subject to change. All questions related to schedules should be directed to your school counselor.
Cardinal Gibbons High School reserves the right to make changes to the curriculum based on availability, as well as state and ADOM directives.
ACCELERATED ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
ADVANCED PLACEMENT
Cardinal Gibbons offers a robust selection of AP courses — including the prestigious AP Capstone Diploma Program — allowing students to engage in college-level studies and earn university credit. Our AP scholars consistently score above national averages, and many graduates attend college on full scholarships through Florida Bright Futures and other competitive awards.
Advanced Placement (AP) classes introduce students to a college-level curriculum. These courses are as rigorous as introductory college classes—they are fast-paced, cover more material than honors-level courses, and require a high degree of independent work, such as research and critical analysis. Taking AP courses demonstrates to college admissions officers that a student is prepared for the demands of college-level academics.
At Cardinal Gibbons, students enrolled in an AP course are required to take the corresponding AP exam in order to receive AP credit for the class. These exams are proctored during the first two weeks of May, and failure to sit for the scheduled AP exam will result in a zero for the course’s final exam grade. Most AP courses are worth one (1) full credit, and students are enrolled in the course for the entire academic year. A fee set by the College Board will be charged for each exam and added to the student’s FACTS account.
Additionally, all students enrolled in an AP course must have an external keyboard (plug in, magnetic or bluetooth) for use throughout the year and during AP testing in May, as this is a College Board requirement for digital exams.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) ELIGIBILITY:
To apply for an AP course, a student must meet the following criteria:
• A student must earn an “A” in an Honors course for both semesters of the previous or prerequisite course to be eligible for an Advanced Placement course. Additional prerequisites may apply.
To remain in an AP course, a student must maintain a minimum of a “B” average each semester.
AP CAPSTONE DIPLOMA
AP Capstone™ is a diploma program based on two yearlong AP courses: AP Seminar and AP Research. These courses are designed to complement other AP courses that the AP Capstone student may take. Instead of teaching specific subject knowledge, AP Seminar and AP Research use an interdisciplinary approach to develop the critical thinking, research, collaboration, time management, and presentation skills students need for college-level work.
College Board developed the AP Capstone Diploma program at the request of higher education professionals, who saw a need for a systematic way for high school students to begin mastering these skills before college.
ACCELERATED ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
DUAL ENROLLMENT
Cardinal Gibbons High School has partnered with Barry University to teach dual enrollment classes on our campus. The Dual Enrollment Program (DE) gives high school students the opportunity to take college-level courses and receive college credit. CGHS teachers teach these courses and the curriculum meets university criteria.
In order to be eligible, students must hold a 3.5 unweighted GPA or higher, meet Dual Enrollment Eligibility (see Curriculum Guide for details), and earn a passing score on a college readiness assessment.
To remain eligible for future dual enrollment classes, the student must maintain an A or B average in each dual enrollment class taken. Please refer to the Curriculum Guide for a list of dual enrollment classes offered at CGHS. Students who successfully complete a dual enrollment course earn 2.0 points towards their high school GPA and earn college credit from Barry University. University transcripts must be ordered directly from Barry University’s transcript request process no earlier than two weeks after the end of the second semester. It is important that students contact the university of their choice to determine how the university will accept the dual enrollment credit.
PASSING SCORES ON COLLEGE READINESS
*Students taking Dual Enrollment Spanish for the first time are required to sit for the Barry Placement Test.
ACCELERATED ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
EXCELSIOR PROGRAM
The Excelsior Program is an advanced academic program afforded to high-performing students at Cardinal Gibbons High School by invitation only. The program has been developed to enhance educational experiences through motivation, knowledge, and accelerated classes. Students in the Excelsior Program are among the top performing students in their class and are expected to challenge themselves academically and reach their highest potential. Cardinal Gibbons supports these students by providing Honors, AP, and DE courses, SAT / ACT Bootcamp discounts, Field Trips to Honors College Programs, lecture series, professional guest speakers, and school recognition.
QUALIFICATIONS:
• Incoming Freshmen - Top percentage of testers that perform exceptionally well on the Admissions Entrance Exam (HSPT) and present outstanding middle school grades.
• Transfer students: Cardinal Gibbons will honor similar programs achieved and maintained in students’ previous schools after a review of academic records.
* Qualifying for the Excelsior Program must be achieved prior to the student’s junior (11th grade) year.
• Student involvement in two or more Cardinal Gibbons extracurricular activities; including but not limited to CGHS clubs, organizations, volunteer groups, athletics, and fine art programs.
• 35 Volunteer Service Hours achieved each year.
• Participation in Lecture Series, Workshops, and field trips
For more information, please contact Director of Academics Veronica Cloyd at cloyd@cghsfl.org.
The Excelsior Program is intended to highlight our top 10% of students in each class, based on a well-rounded measure of test scores, grade point average, and academic rigor. As such, the qualifications to earn or maintain Excelsior status are reviewed annually.
Excelsior Program Curriculum Recommendations
FRESHMAN YEAR
Jewish History I & II H
English I H
Algebra I H / Geometry H / Algebra II H
Biology H
World History H / AP World History
World Language
HOPE / Fine Art
JUNIOR YEAR
Sacraments H / DE Freedom and Virtue
English III H / AP English Language
Algebra II H / Pre-Calculus H / Calculus H / AP Calculus AB
Chemistry H / AP Chem / AP Biology / Physics H
US History H / AP US History
World Language H / AP / DE
SOPHOMORE YEAR
Christology H / Ecclesiology H
English II H / AP Seminar
Geometry H /Algebra II H / Pre-Calculus H / Calculus H
Anatomy H / Chemistry H / AP Biology
AP Human Geography / AP Euro / AP Psychology
Personal Financial Literacy H
World Language
Fine Art
SENIOR YEAR
Comparative Religions H/DE & Catholic Social Teaching H/DE
English IV H / AP English Literature
Pre-Calculus H/ Calculus H / AP Calculus AB / AP Calculus BC / AP Statistics
AP Physics / AP Chemistry / AP Biology
AP Macroeconomics, AP Microeconomics, Economics H
AP U.S. Government / U.S. Government H
DE Composition & Rhetoric / DE Writing About Literature
World Language H / AP / DE
S.T.R.E.A.M. PROGRAMS
CARDINAL GIBBONS ENGINEERING DESIGN PROCESS
This framework includes, but is not limited to, the following steps: Ask, Imagine, Plan and Create, Test, and Share. This is a framework that is used in our Leadership Committees, Sub Committees, lesson planning, other micro projects, and in the classroom. This is and can be used across the curriculum in every department and at every level of planning. Establishing an Engineering Design Process as a framework and approach to education was influenced by the Cognia STEM Conference in 2023 (Miami).
Engineering Design Process (C.G.E.D.P.)
With Jesus as our Guide, we design to serve, create with purpose, and build for the good of all.
& Explore valuate & Create
Challenge
Seek to Understand
What is the challenge or identify the need?
How can we help others?
Who is impacted?
Clarify constraints (i.e. time, cost, materials, etc.)
Connect to real world issues
Understand the greater need
Ask, and you will receive. John 16:24
&
Elevating Faith & Academics
Gather and Explore with Faith & Reason
Gather background information
Brainstorm solutions
Encourage imagination & brainstorming Research topic
With God all things are possible. Matthew 19:26
Evaluate and Create Design with Purpose
Build a model, draft, pilot program or initial version
Identify strengths & areas of growth
Bring ideas to life
Commit to the Lord whatever you do. Proverbs 16:3
Design and Improve
Analyze & Refine
Test designs, learn from mistakes
Continuous improvement
Refine based on feedback and testing
Analyze results & dissagregate data
Let your light shine before others. Matthew 5:16
Present Results
Give Glory to God
Communicate results to stakeholders
Present results: Use presentations, reports, displays, or videos
Reflect on both process & impact
Explain how this contributes to human flourishing, justice, & care for creation?
Celebrate efforts
Redesign as needed
Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. 1 Corinthians 10:31
Miami Frost Center STEM Challenge
Grade Levels: All
The program focuses on getting students engaged in STEM through our engineering designbased program, STEM Challenge. The STEM Challenge culminates in an Expo at the museum, where students present their work to content expert judges. Winning students will win scholarships to Florida public universities.
National STEM Honor Society
Grade Levels: Seniors
The National STEM Honor Society proudly supports educators, administrators, students, and families as we navigate a rapidly evolving world marked by both significant challenges and opportunities in education. As global technological advancements continue to accelerate, we remain committed to empowering those shaping the future of STEM. Our dedicated team stands ready to offer guidance and encouragement, empowering you to thrive every step of the way.
Applied Robotics Honors: Gearheads
Grade Levels: All
Applied Robotics Honors and the Gearheads Robotics Club offer students hands-on experience in coding, engineering, and robotics through both an after-school Honors course and a club setting. Students design and build VEX robots, with advanced members competing in local and state tournaments. The Honors course meets after school from 2:45–4:30 PM, two days per week, with club participation extending learning opportunities.
FIU Sea Levels Solution Day
Grade Levels: All
Working with experts around the world, we develop useful and continuing sea level and other climate change-related responses while collaborating with people on the ground to meet realtime needs and provide support.
STEM Week Firetruck Engineering Egg Drop
Grade Levels: All
The challenge involves applying physics principles like impulse, gravity, and air resistance to design a protective container, often with specific materials, mass, and volume constraints. The success of the design is tested by dropping it from a height, and the goal is to have the egg survive the impact without cracking
AI Task Force
Grade Levels: All
An AI task force is a dedicated group formed to oversee the responsible development, integration, and regulation of artificial intelligence within an organization or institution. Its primary focus is to ensure that AI technologies are used ethically, transparently, and in alignment with core values such as fairness, privacy, and accountability. In an educational setting, an AI task force would help create policies on AI use in classrooms, guide teachers and students, and evaluate emerging technologies. It would also address ethical concerns such as bias in algorithms, academic integrity, and the impact of AI on student learning. Establishing such a group helps schools prepare for the growing role of AI while safeguarding student well-being and academic standards.
S.T.R.E.A.M. PROGRAMS
CAMPUS MINISTRY RETREAT PROGRAM OVERVIEW
As part of our school’s spiritual formation program, students participate in a variety of retreats designed to support personal growth, reflection, leadership, and community building. Retreat themes may vary from year to year, but typically include opportunities focused on athletics, the arts, servant leadership, personal identity, and faith exploration. These retreats offer students meaningful experiences that encourage deeper selfunderstanding, stronger relationships with others, and a growing awareness of God’s presence in their lives. All students are required to attend one retreat each school year.
For more information about our retreats, contact Director of Campus Ministry Dr. Karen Stalnaker at stalnaker@cghsfl.org.
Please note: Retreat themes and formats may be adjusted from year to year based on student needs and Campus Ministry planning.
Athletes’ Retreat
Inspired by Bl. Pier Giorgio Frassati, this retreat invites student-athletes to reflect on teamwork, discipline, leadership, and integrity—both on and off the field.
Arts Retreat – St. Cecilia
Inspired by St. Cecilia, this retreat provides a creative space for students to explore the connection between creativity, beauty, and personal meaning through reflection and artistic expression.
Overnight Adventure Retreat – Follow The Way (FTW)
This overnight retreat gives students the chance to step away from daily routines and engage in outdoor activities, personal reflection, and meaningful conversations.
Freshman Retreat
This during-school Catholic retreat invites freshmen to reflect on their identity, build community, and begin their high school journey grounded in faith, belonging, and personal growth.
Senior Retreat
This during-school Catholic retreat offers seniors time for prayer, reflection, and gratitude as they prepare for graduation, focusing on faith, leadership, and the transition to life beyond high school.
S.T.R.E.A.M. PROGRAMS
CAREER READINESS PATHWAY PROGRAM PROGRESSION
Students enrolled in a Career Readiness Pathway should follow the sequence of courses outlined below. These courses are designed to develop essential skills, knowledge, and experience within each pathway, preparing students for post-secondary education or careers in their chosen field. To review Pathway Curriculum, please turn to page 83.
Allied Health Science
Prepare for careers in healthcare, including nursing, medical assisting, and allied health professions.
• Year 1: Anatomy & Physiology
• Year 2: Health Science Foundations Honors / CPR Certification
• Year 3: Nursing Assistant Honors / CNA Certification
Partner: Holy Cross Hospital, Nova Southeastern University
Computer Science & AI
Prepare for careers in healthcare, including nursing, medical assisting, and allied health professions.
• Year 1: Coding Honors
Business
Prepare for careers in management, entrepreneurship, marketing, and finance.
• Year 1:: Business Entrepreneurship Principles Honors
• Year 2:: Catholic Entrepreneurship & Design Experience Honors
• Year 3:: Business Management / Business Capstone Project
Partner: The Catholic University of America
Digital Video Technology
Prepare for careers in healthcare, including nursing, medical assisting, and allied health professions.
• Year 2: Computer Programming Honors
• Year 3: Foundations of Programming with AI Honors
Engineering
Prepare for careers in healthcare, including nursing, medical assisting, and allied health professions.
• Year 1: Intro to Engineering & Design Honors
• Year 2: Computer Integrated Manufacturing Honors Year 3: Robotics Honors
• Year 1: Digital Video Technology I Honors
• Year 2: Digital Video Technology II Honors
• Year 3: Digital Video Technology III Honors / Adobe Premier Pro Certification
Emergency Medical Technician
Prepare for careers in healthcare, including nursing, medical assisting, and allied health professions.
• Year 1: Anatomy & Physiology
• Year 2: Emergency Medical Responder Honors / CPR Certification
• Year 3: Emergency Medical Technician Honors / Ambulance Ride-Along, Hospital Clinical Rotation / NREMT Certification
Partner: Barry University / Holy Cross Hospital / Fort Lauderdale Fire Department, Oakland Park Fire Department
S.T.R.E.A.M. PROGRAMS
CAREER READINESS PATHWAYS
The Career Readiness Pathways are a set of career-driven programs offered at Cardinal Gibbons High School set to offer students an opportunity to develop skills and experiences targeted towards their future career goals. Students in each pathway program will complete a series of specialized, rigorous courses that lead to certifications, internships, and/or capstone projects. Upon graduation, students will be honored with a pathway designation, the opportunity to include the pathway program and benefits to college applications, letters, and student resumes, and encourage students to interact with others in the respective field. Applications for a pathway must be submitted by the end of freshman year. Please note that additional courses are recommended for the continued success in future college programs. Emergency Medical Technician
Digital Video Technology
APPLICATION PROCESS FOR THE CAREER READINESS PATHWAYS
Application Timeline:
Freshman students may apply in the spring during the course selection period.
Requirements to Apply:
To be considered for the program, applicants must complete the following:
1. Pathway Application: Fill out the application form.
2. Letter of Recommendation: Submit a recommendation from a teacher or counselor.
3. Letter of Intent: Write and submit a statement of your interest in the program.
4. Signed Parental Financial Agreement: Ensure your parents or guardians sign the agreement.
5. Registration Fee: Pay a one-time $150 registration fee at the time of registration.
Minimum Eligibility Criteria:
• A minimum weighted GPA of 3.0
• Must not be on probation (academic, disciplinary, or attendance)
• Select 10th-grade courses related to the desired Pathway program.
Acceptance Process:
Science
The Pathway Committee will review all applications. Applicants will receive a letter indicating acceptance or denial before the end of their freshman year. Student schedules will be adjusted as needed. All Pathway fees for the 2026-2027 school year will be added to your FACTS account in July 2026 and must be paid by September 2026.
Maintaining Eligibility:
To remain in the Pathway Program, participants must:
• Maintain a minimum weighted GPA of 3.0
• Not be on probation
• Meet all course requirements for the Pathway
• Pay all fees by the annual deadline
Failure to meet course requirements, pay fees, or maintain eligibility may result in withdrawal from the Pathway Program.
ACADEMIC SUPPORT PROGRAMS
At Cardinal Gibbons High School, we believe in a holistic approach to education, where academic success is just one part of our students’ growth. To support this belief, we’ve established a range of programs designed to address the various needs of our students, from academic tutoring to social and emotional support. These initiatives are part of our commitment to create a nurturing environment that fosters personal development, academic excellence, and emotional well-being.
Student-Athlete Success Program
The Student-Athlete Success Program provides a supportive and faith-centered environment that helps student-athletes thrive academically, grow spiritually, and develop their athletic talents. This program emphasizes character formation through prayer, service, and leadership, while offering strong academic supports such as tutoring, mentoring, and progress monitoring in partnership with coaches and families. Student-athletes also receive guidance in athletic development and college preparation, including resources on NCAA eligibility, recruitment, time management, and future athletic pathways. By fostering meaningful relationships and promoting a culture of respect, teamwork, and sportsmanship, the program prepares students to excel in high school and beyond as dedicated learners, responsible citizens, and disciples of Christ.
SAT/ACT Prep and Bootcamp Program
Academic excellence extends beyond the classroom. Our comprehensive SAT/ACT preparation program equips students with strategies, practice, and confidence to excel on college entrance exams. Students receive guided instruction, personalized feedback, and access to digital resources that maximize their potential for scholarship opportunities and university admission.
Student Mentoring Program
Cardinal Gibbons High School offers a Student Mentoring Program that has been developed to help students succeed through weekly mentoring and coaching. Students are assigned a peer or faculty mentor for the quarter. Academic Supports consist of organizational skills, communication with teachers, and goal development.
Links to Learning Peer Tutoring Program
Tutoring is offered through our Links to Learning Peer Tutoring Program at no cost. Students who need assistance with academic subject areas are encouraged to reach out for assistance. The program is organized by our National Honor Society.
Social, Emotional, Learning Support - Nova Southeastern University SEL Team
CGHS has partnered with Nova Southeastern University (NSU) to provide social, emotional, and learning support to students throughout the year. Student interns from NSU’s doctoral program are available on campus to meet with individual and small groups of students to address academic, social, and emotional needs. Parental consent is required for servicing.
Exceptional Student Education
Students with disabilities are afforded limited accommodations in the classroom through an Accommodation Plan or an Individualized Learning Plan (ILP). Requirements: Psychological evaluation or doctor’s note. To request more information about accommodations, please contact ese@cghsfl.org.
Calasanz Program
The Calasanz Program serves students with cognitive and significant learning disabilities through a self-contained academic model paired with inclusive support. A certified special education teacher provides instruction for core courses, while students join their peers for electives. Admission is based on previous academic records, recommendations, and a current psycho educational evaluation. Students must meet the 28 credit graduation requirement, and Individualized Learning Plans are created using updated evaluations. The ESE Coordinator advises and monitors each student’s progress. For details, contact ESE Coordinator at ese@cghsfl.org.
COUNSELING & COLLEGE ADVISING
SCHOOL COUNSELING & COLLEGE ADVISING
The Office of School Counseling and College Advising provides unwavering academic, social-emotional, and college-career counseling support. We strive to empower our students to become independent and productive individuals by creating an encouraging atmosphere to explore their interests, unique talents, dreams and passions. We guide students through individual and group counseling sessions and give them the tools to live to their true potential, so that by the end of high school, they are college, career and life ready.
Throughout the years of high school, the Counseling Office facilitates workshops for parents and students on topics ranging from scheduling, the college exploration and application process, Naviance, and how to pay for college. Our school-wide commitment, advocacy and partnerships with families and the school community will promote an environment that will ensure high school success and prepare young adults for their future endeavors.
SCHOOL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: 100469
This CEEB Code should be used on all applications, scholarships, college entrance exams, and SAT and ACT exams, as the school’s designation code.
Test Grade Location Requirement
Pre-ACT 9, 10
PSAT 9, 10, 11
AP 9, 10, 11, 12
ACT (School Day) 11
SAT & ACT (Saturday) 11, 12
Administered by CGHS Required Testing
Administered by CGHS Required Testing
Administered by CGHS Required Testing for Students Enrolled in AP Courses
Administered by CGHS Required Testing
Administered Off Required for entrance to many Campus colleges including Florida’s four year public institutions and for the Bright Futures Scholarship
BRIGHT FUTURES
To apply for a Bright Futures Scholarship, students must submit a completed, error-free Florida Financial Aid Application (FFAA) during their last year of high school (after October 1, but no later than August 31, after graduation). Students must apply during their last year of high school or they will forfeit all future eligibility for a Bright Futures Scholarship. The student must be a Florida resident and a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen, as determined by the student’s postsecondary institution.
To apply online, visit www.floridastudentfinancialaidsg.org/SAPHome/SAPHome, and select Create a Student Account. The application gives the Florida Department of Education (FDOE) permission to evaluate your high school transcript and test scores for eligibility for state scholarships and grants, including the Bright Futures Scholarship. You may apply prior to meeting all requirements, as scores for the SAT, ACT, and Classic Learning Test (CLT) taken through August 31 of your senior year are accepted for evaluation purposes.
Florida’s Bright Futures Scholarship program has added the AP Capstone Diploma as a pathway to the Florida Academic Scholars (FAS) award, starting with the Class of 2026. Students who earn the AP Capstone Diploma can qualify for 100% tuition coverage at Florida public colleges and universities without SAT/ACT scores, provided they meet AP exam score requirements. For students entering high school in the 2025–2026 school year or later, three of the four required AP exams must be in core subjects (math, science, social studies, or ELA).
Initial Eligibility Requirements: (As determined by the Florida Department of Education)
1. Submit the Florida Financial Aid Application (FFAA) no later than August 31 after high school graduation.
2. Graduate from a Florida high school with a standard high school diploma or its equivalent.
3. Complete the 16 college-preparatory courses required for admission to a state university.
4. Achieve the required weighted GPA in the 16 college-preparatory courses per the chart below.
5. Achieve the required composite ACT® score, Overall Score on the Classic Learning Test (CLT), or combined SAT® score. Tests are accepted through August 31 of the student’s graduation year (or through January 31 for mid-year graduates), per the chart below.
6. Complete the required number of volunteer service hours, paid work hours, or 100 total combined hours per the chart below.
FAS 4 - English (three must include 3.50 2025-26 Graduates:
substantial writing) 29/95/1330
4 - Mathematics (at or above the 2026-27 Graduates: Algebra I level) 29/95/1330
FMS 3 - Natural Science (two must have 3.00 2025-26 Graduates:
substantial laboratory) 25/82/1190
3 - Social Science 2026-27 Graduates: 24/82/1190
2 - World Language (sequential, in same language)
1 The required coursework aligns with the State University System admission requirements found in Florida Board of Governor’s Regulation 6.002. Additional information regarding high school coursework can be found within the Florida Counseling for Future Education Handbook. 2 Students must earn the required volunteer service hours, 100 paid work hours, or a combination that totals a minimum of 100 hours.
Requirements to Receive an Award: (As determined by the postsecondary institution)
1. Be evaluated by the Office of Student Financial Assistance (OSFA) as meeting initial eligibility requirements.
2. Be a Florida resident and U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen.
3. Enroll as a degree- or certificate-seeking student at a Florida institution in at least 6 non-remedial semester credit hours.
Renewal Requirements: (As determined by grade and hours submitted by the postsecondary institution)
1. Students must earn the number of credit hours based on the student’s enrollment type per term.
2. The renewal cumulative GPA requirements are outlined in the table below.
For detailed information, including other ways to qualify, please refer to the Bright Futures Student Handbook. Eligibility requirements are subject to change with each legislative session.
Students are responsible for tracking their application and award status online and ensuring that funding for an academic year is accurate by contacting their institution’s financial aid office.
COUNSELING & COLLEGE ADVISING
Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program
Florida Gold Seal Vocational Scholars (GSV) 2025-26
Initial Eligibility Requirements: (As determined by the Florida Department of Education )
1. Submit the Florida Financial Aid Application (FFAA) no later than August 31 after high school graduation.
2. Graduate with a standard Florida high school diploma or its equivalent.
3. Achieve the required weighted 3.0 GPA in the non-elective high school courses.
4. Completes at least three (3) full Career and Technical Education credits
5. Achieve the required minimum 3.5 unweighted GPA in Career and Technical Education credits.
6. Complete at least 30 volunteer service hours, 100 paid work hours, or a combination that equals a minimum of 100 total hours. For students entering grade 9 in the 2024-2025 school year and thereafter, 75 hours of volunteer service must be completed
7. Achieve the required minimum scores on one of the college entrance exams per the chart below no later than August 31 of the year the student graduates from high school
Requirements to Receive an Award: (As determined by your postsecondary institution.)
1. Be evaluated by the Office of Student Financial Assistance (OSFA) as meeting initial eligibility requirements
2. Be a Florida resident and U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen.
3. Enroll as a degree- or certificate-seeking student at a Florida institution in at least six (6) non-remedial semester credit hours.
Scholarship Restrictions:
The GSV award may only be used at postsecondary institutions that offer an applied technology diploma, technical degree education program (associate in applied science or associate in science), or a career certificate program and not toward the completion of an associate in arts or a baccalaureate degree.
Renewal Requirements: (As determined by grade and hours submitted by your postsecondary institution.)
1. Students must earn the number of credit hours based on the student’s enrollment type per term.
2. Students must maintain a minimum cumulative 2.75 GPA (unrounded and unweighted)
For detailed information, please refer to the Bright Futures Student Handbook.
Eligibility requirements are subject to change with each legislative session.
Students are responsible for tracking their application and award status online and ensuring that funding for an academic year is accurate by contacting their institution’s financial aid office.
COUNSELING & COLLEGE ADVISING
The purpose of this Four Year Counseling Developmental Plan is to outline a clear, structured roadmap for the support students receive from the counseling department during each year of high school. It shows:
• the developmental focus for each grade
• the skills and knowledge students build over time
• when key counseling lessons, meetings, and parent events occur
• how academic, college, career, and faith based guidance progresses from ninth through twelfth grade
Overall, it ensures students grow in self awareness, academic readiness, and post secondary planning while keeping families informed and involved at every stage.
4-Year Counseling Developmental Plan (CDP)
Transition to High School
Executive Functioning Making Connections
Finding your Passions & Interests Career Exploration
How to Use a Digital Planner Study Skills & Time Management
Getting to Know You Icebreakers 9th Grade Parent Night
“Be
College & Career
Readiness
SAT/ACT Test Prep
Academic Rigor
Naviance Self-Exploration & Career Surveys
Importance of Extracurricular Activities
PSAT Score Interpretation 10th Grade Parent Night
Introduction to Naviance
Goal-Setting
Peer Relationships
Academic Planning for Grade 10
Preparing for Junior and Senior Year
Goal Setting
Resume Building
Course Selection for 11th Grade
Junior Classroom Visits
Building Prospective College Lists
Resume Building
PSAT/NMSQT
One-on-One College
Advisement
Building College Lists
11th Grade Parent Night
SAT/ACT Prep
College Essay Help & Bootcamp
Course Selection for Grade 12
College Applications
“God
Post Secondary Planning Financial Aid
College Application Process: Classroom visits, workshops, one-on-on meetings
12th Grade Parent Night
Financial Aid Night
Senior Exit Surveys & Graduation Planning
Gather college acceptances & scholarship data
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
CARDINAL GIBBONS HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
1. Minimum of 28 credits (Transfer students, juniors, and seniors may have a different amount. Speak with your school counselor for individual requirements.)
2. Cumulative unweighted grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale.
3. Minimum of 100 Christian service hours, with 25 hours accumulative hours at each grade level.
4. No outstanding financial obligations.
5. Students must earn credits in the specific areas set forth below.
*State universities highly recommend three (3) years or more of a World Language.
Cardinal Gibbons High School will withhold diplomas and final transcripts if all requirements for graduation listed above are not met. Students must pass each semester or will be required to immediately remediate the course the following summer during summer school.
Freshman Year Requirements
Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II
Biology I
English I
World History
Jewish History I/II
Sophomore Year Requirements
Geometry, Algebra II, Pre-Calculus
Lab Science (Chemistry or Anatomy)
English II
Personal Finance and Money Management (online)
Christology (.5) / Ecclesiology (.5)
***HOPE / Fine Art Fine Art / Elective
World Language
(25 community service hours)
Junior Year Requirements
Algebra II, Pre-Calculus, Calculus
Science
English III
U.S. History
Sacraments / Freedom and Virtue
World Language / Fine Art (1.0)
Elective (1.0)
(25 community service hours)
World Language
(25 community service hours)
Senior Year Requirements
Mathematics for College Readiness, Pre-Calculus, Calculus
Science / Elective (1.0)
English IV
Economics (.5) / American Government (.5)
Comparative Religions (5) / Catholic Social Teaching (.5)
Elective (1.0)
Elective (1.0)
(25 community service hours)
All students are required to complete 1.0 credit of HOPE. PE Waivers are not provided or accepted.
All high school courses taken prior to 9th grade receive credit but are not calculated into the GPA.
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
TO GRADUATE, A SENIOR MUST:
• Have an unweighted cumulative grade point average of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale, or its equivalent, for courses required for graduation.
• Take and pass the academic requirements mandated by the State of Florida Board of Education and others mandated by Cardinal Gibbons High School specifically.
• Re-take and pass any failed required course, regardless of the number of credits he/she has already earned.
• A student will not receive his/her diploma unless the credit(s) is/are made up during summer school.
• Pass and therefore receive credit for all the courses in which he/she is matriculated during the senior year in order to receive his/her diploma, regardless of the number of credits already earned.
• Complete the required 100 hours of Christian Service Hours by the specified deadline.
Seniors may not participate in the Commencement Ceremony if they have an outstanding financial obligation, failed a class, or have less than a 2.0 unweighted cumulative grade point average. At the discretion of the principal, some seniors may be kept from participating in Commencement for reasons relating to misconduct or disciplinary action.
CHRISTIAN SERVICE HOURS
All Cardinal Gibbons High School students must earn a total of 100 Christian Service Hours in order to graduate. A total of 40 hours must be direct. Each student is responsible for completing a minimum of 25 service hours every year.
Cardinal Gibbons High School reserves the right not to accept any service hours that do not meet the school’s community service philosophy.
Information about service hours can be found on the school website at https://www.cghsfl.org/faith-service/christian-service
COURSE CATALOG
HOW TO READ THE COURSE CATALOG
Courses are listed by department in a progressive order. Each course is listed with the course title, Florida Department of Education Code, Cardinal Gibbons High School Code, and credit per year. The course description is included, as well as the appropriate grade level(s), prerequisite and/or corequisite courses, and specific notations about the course.
COURSE DESCRIPTION BY DEPARTMENT: Courses are separated by department. The following departments are included:
• English
• Mathematics
• Science, Engineering, and Computer Science
• Social Studies and Business
• Theology
• World Languages
• Fine Arts – Visual and Performing
• Physical Education and Health
• Career Readiness Pathways
• Calasanz Program
GRADE LEVEL: These are the appropriate grade levels for the course.
CREDITS: If a course is offered over the course of a year, a student must earn 1.0 credits. If a course is offered over the course of a semester, a student must earn 0.5 credits.
PREREQUISITE: The prerequisite is required to enroll in the course. Students should adhere to the prerequisite before listing the course on a course selection form. Some prerequisites include a PSAT or prior course, while others may include a specific course. Honors, Advanced Placement, and Dual Enrollment courses follow specific guidelines, which are listed in the Advanced Courses section of this Curriculum Guide.
COREQUISITE: A corequisite course may require a student to take another course adjacent to the selected course.
NOTE: The note may indicate whether the course is a core, elective, or required course. Some courses may also include other pertinent information.
ELECTIVES: Elective courses (0.5 credits) are linked together. See grade level elective combinations.
COURSE CATALOG
ADVANCED COURSES ELIGIBILITY
Please refer to the course descriptions for additional prerequisites by course.
HONORS ELIGIBILITY
To apply for an Honors course, a student must meet the following criteria:
• Incoming freshmen who are interested in an Honors course must meet the prerequisite listed. **A review of the student’s previous middle school grades in the subject matter, teacher recommendation, HSPT scores, and performance on the Course Advancement Exams will be conducted for freshmen interested in an Honors course.
• A student must earn an “A” in the college preparatory course for both semesters of the previous course to be eligible. Additional prerequisites may apply.
• To remain in an Honors course, a student must maintain a minimum of a “B” average each semester.
• Teacher recommendation is required.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) ELIGIBILITY
To apply for an AP course, a student must meet the following criteria:
• A student must earn an “A” in an Honors course for both semesters of the previous or prerequisite course to be eligible for an Advanced Placement course. Additional prerequisites may apply.
• To remain in an AP course, a student must maintain a minimum of a “B” average each semester.
• Teacher recommendation is required.
Please note that the College Board charges a fee per exam. Fees vary annually.
DUAL ENROLLMENT (DE) ELIGIBILITY
To apply for a DE course, a student must meet the following criteria:
• A student must earn an unweighted GPA of 3.5 or higher in order to be eligible.
• A student must earn an appropriate score on a College Readiness Assessment (SAT, ACT PERT).
• A student must earn an “A” in the Honors course for both semesters of the previous prerequisite course to be eligible. Additional prerequisites may apply.
• To remain in a DE course, a student must maintain a minimum of a “B” average each semester.
• Students receive two separate grades for each DE course: (1) one grade is applied towards the Cardinal Gibbons High School transcript, and DE weight is added to the student GPA; (2) one grade is applied to the student’s university transcript.
• Placement exams are also required for students taking Spanish.
• Teacher recommendation is required.
See the Cardinal Gibbons DE website (www.cghsfl.org/academics/dual-enrollment) for more information.
Honors and Advanced Level Course Note: Advanced courses require a greater demand on students through increased academic rigor. Academic rigor is obtained through the application, analysis, evaluation, and creation of complex ideas that are often abstract and multi-faceted. Students are challenged to think and collaborate critically on the content they are learning. Honors level rigor will be achieved by increasing text complexity through text selection, focus on high-level qualitative measures, and complexity of the task. Instruction will be structured to give students a deeper understanding of conceptual themes and organization within and across disciplines. Academic rigor is more than simply assigning a greater quantity of work.
ENGLISH
Graduation Requirement: Four (4) credits of Language Arts Department Recommendations: Two (2) additional 0.5 credits of composition and research are highly recommended for all students.
The English Department strives to provide students with the opportunity to grow analytically, critically, and culturally. English courses focus on vocabulary, composition, literature, and various communication experiences. Research and writing skills are developed in compositional courses.
The following descriptions and designations for English courses have been assigned.
REQUIRED RECOMMENDED ELECTIVES
9th English I, English I Honors
10th English II, English II Honors
11th English III, English III Honors,
Creative Writing, Contemporary Literature Honors, AP Seminar
Writing for College Success, AP Seminar, AP English Language Journalism
12th English IV, English IV Honors,
Writing for College Success, *DE First Year AP English Literature Composition & Rhetoric, Journalism, *DE Writing About Literature, AP Research
ENGLISH I STANDARD
FLDOE: 1001310
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0116-0117
Grade Level: 9
Corequisite: Intensive Reading - 9
Note: Fundamental Course, Core, Requirement. Placement based on performance of the HSPT scores. Students will be exposed to a diverse range of literary genres, including short stories, poetry, spoken word, drama, novels, and non-fiction, to explore complex themes within the scope of World Literature. Emphasis will be placed on intensive reading practices that enhance comprehension, analysis, and synthesis of texts, while fostering meaningful connections across works. Vocabulary and grammar instruction will be integrated into the curriculum, reinforcing skills applied to both written and oral communication. Students will strengthen their writing craft by developing well-supported theses, organizing their work, and practicing effective communication through writing, speaking, collaborating, and listening. Writing assignments will include argumentative, informative/explanatory, and narratives in MLA format.
INTENSIVE READING - 9
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 9
FLDOE: 1000412
CGHS: 0162-0163
Corequisite: English I fundamental course (Placement is based on performance on the placement test, HSPT, and performance in previous English courses)
Note: Required for students in English I Standard, Corequisite
This course is designed to support 9th-grade students reading below grade level by emphasizing the acquisition and application of foundational literacy skills. Instruction is personalized and aligned with curriculum standards, targeting specific areas to foster measurable growth in both reading comprehension and written expression. Students will engage in diverse reading and writing activities that promote critical thinking, develop language proficiency, and enhance overall literacy. Through instruction and use of diagnostic assessments, the course will monitor and support individual progress, guiding students toward achieving grade-level competence in reading and writing.
ENGLISH
ENGLISH I COLLEGE PREP
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 9
FLDOE: 1001310
CGHS: 0118-0119
Prerequisite(s): Placement based on performance on Course Advancement Exams, HSPT scores, and/or previous grades. Note: Core, Requirement
In this course, students will delve into a variety of genres and identify powerful themes within the context of World Literature. Genres will include short stories, poetry, spoken word, dramas, novels, and non-fiction. Students will enhance their reading ability by comprehending, analyzing text, and making personal connections within and across texts. Grade-level vocabulary and grammar will be taught and practiced and skills acquired will be applied to speaking and writing activities. Students will practice effective communication skills in writing, speaking, collaborating, and listening. Students will strengthen the craft of writing by focusing on thesis and evidence while matching organization structures and forms to audience and purpose. Writing assignments, including argument, informative/explanatory, and narrative that, will allow students to express themselves in grammatically correct and coherent essays utilizing MLA style.
ENGLISH I HONORS
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 9
FLDOE: 1001320
CGHS: 0120-0121
Prerequisite(s): Admission into this course will be based upon a review of the student’s profile, an “A” in 8th-grade English, 9.1 or higher on the Reading and language sections of the High School Placement Test, and performance on Course Advancement Exams.
Note: Core, Requirement
This course offers an in-depth exploration of various genres within World Literature, including short stories, poetry, spoken word, dramas, novels, and non-fiction, while focusing on identifying powerful themes. Through comprehensive reading, analyzing texts, and making personal connections, students will enhance their literacy skills. The curriculum emphasizes the development of grade-level vocabulary and grammar, applying these skills in writing, speaking, and collaborative activities. Writing assignments will range from argument and literary analysis to informative and narrative modes, all crafted using MLA style and designed to match audience and purpose. Pre-AP English aligns with high school and college standards, giving students multiple opportunities to refine critical literacy skills, such as reading closely, evaluating evidence, and understanding how language choices shape communication. The course prepares students for advanced English studies while encouraging reflective thinking through additional reading and writing assignments.
ENGLISH II COLLEGE PREP
FLDOE: 1001340
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0124-0125
Grade Level: 10
Prerequisite(s): English I
Note: Core, Requirement
In this course, students will delve into a variety of genres and identify powerful themes within the context of World Literature with increased independence and more challenging literary choices and texts. Genres will include short stories, poetry, spoken word, dramas, novels, and non-fiction. Students will enhance their reading ability by comprehending, analyzing text, and making personal connections within and across texts. Grade-level and individual level vocabulary and grammar will be taught and practiced. Skills acquired will be applied to speaking and writing activities. Students will practice effective communication skills in writing, speaking, collaborating, and listening. The craft of writing will be strengthened by focusing on thesis and evidence while matching with organizational structures. Writing assignments, including argument, literary analysis, informative/explanatory, and narrative modes, will allow students to express themselves in grammatically correct and coherent essays utilizing MLA style.
ENGLISH
ENGLISH
II
HONORS
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 10
FLDOE: 1001350
CGHS: 0126-0127
Prerequisite(s): See Honors Eligibility. Additional eligibility criteria include a score of 550+ on the Reading and Writing section of the PSAT. English I. PreACT Reading and Writing 43.
Note: Core, Requirement
Students will explore a range of genres within World Literature, including short stories, poetry, spoken word, dramas, novels, and non-fiction, with increasing independence and engagement with more challenging texts. They will enhance their reading skills through comprehension, text analysis, and making personal connections across various works. The curriculum incorporates grade-level vocabulary and grammar, with these skills applied in writing, speaking, collaboration, scholarly behavior, and listening activities. Students will also demonstrate scholarly behavior by practicing active listening and engaging in accountable talk. The writing focus will center on developing strong thesis and supporting evidence, with assignments in argument, literary analysis, informative, explanatory, and narrative modes, all adhering to MLA style. Additional reading and writing may be required. Pre-AP English is aligned with high school and college standards, providing students multiple opportunities to strengthen critical literacy skills such as close reading, evaluating evidence, and understanding how language choices affect communication. This prepares students for more advanced English studies and encourages deep reflection on the material.
ENGLISH III COLLEGE PREP
FLDOE: 1001370
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0128-0129
Grade Level: 11
Prerequisite(s): English II
Note: Core, Requirement
In this course, students will delve into the study of American literature, from Dystopian texts to contemporary American texts. Genres will include short stories, poetry, spoken word, dramas, novels, and non-fiction. Students will enhance their reading ability by comprehending, analyzing text, and making personal connections within and across texts. Grade-level and individual level vocabulary and grammar will be taught and practiced. With the aquired skills, students will practice effective communication skills in writing, speaking, collaborating, and listening. The craft of writing will be strengthened by focusing on thesis and evidence while matching organization structures. Writing assignments, including argument, literary analysis, informative/explanatory, and narrative modes, will allow students to express themselves in grammatically correct and coherent essays utilizing MLA style.
ENGLISH III HONORS
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 11
FLDOE: 1001380
CGHS: 0130-0131
Prerequisite(s): See Honors Eligibility. Additional eligibility criteria include a score of 550+ on the Reading and Writing section of the PSAT. English II. PreACT Reading and Writing 43.
Note: Core, Requirement
In this course, students will delve into the study of American literature, from Dystopian texts to contemporary American texts. Genres will include short stories, poetry, spoken word, dramas, novels, and non-fiction. Students will enhance their reading ability by comprehending, analyzing text, and making personal connections within and across texts. Grade-level and individual level vocabulary and grammar will be taught and practiced. With the aquired skill, students will practice effective communication skills in writing, speaking, collaborating, and listening. The craft of writing will be strengthened by focusing on thesis and evidence while matching organization structures. Writing assignments, including argument, literary analysis, informative/explanatory, and narrative modes, will allow students to express themselves in grammatically correct and coherent essays utilizing MLA style. *Additional reading and writing assignments will be required as reflective of the increased level of rigor of the class.
ENGLISH
AP ENGLISH LANGUAGE & COMPOSITION (ENGLISH III)
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 11
FLDOE: 1001420
CGHS: 0136-0137
Prerequisite(s): See Advanced Placement Eligibility. Additional eligibility criteria include a 600+ PSAT Reading and Writing score; English II Honors. PreACT Reading and Writing 43. Corequisite: Students are required to take the AP College Board exam. Note: Core, Requirement
This course cultivates the reading and writing skills that students need for college success and for intellectually responsible civic engagement. The course guides students in becoming curious, critical, and responsive readers of diverse texts and becoming flexible, reflective writers of texts addressed to diverse audiences for various purposes. The reading and writing students do in the course should deepen and expand their understanding of how written language functions rhetorically: to communicate writers’ intentions and elicit readers’ responses in particular situations.
ENGLISH IV COLLEGE PREP
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite(s): English III
Note: Core, Requirement
FLDOE: 1001400
CGHS: 0132-0133
In this course, students will delve into the study of British literature, from the Anglo-Saxon period to the present. Genres will include short stories, poetry, spoken word, dramas, novels, and non-fiction. Students will enhance their reading ability by comprehending, analyzing text, and making personal connections within and across texts. Individual level vocabulary and grammar will be taught and practiced and skills acquired will be applied to speaking and writing activities. Students will practice effective communication skills in writing, speaking, collaborating, and listening. Students will strengthen the craft of writing by focusing on thesis and evidence while matching organization structures and forms to audience and purpose. Writing assignments, including argument, literary analysis, informative/ explanatory, and narrative modes, will allow students to express themselves in grammatically correct and coherent essays utilizing MLA style.
ENGLISH IV HONORS
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 12
FLDOE: 1001410
CGHS: 0134-0135
Prerequisite(s): See Honors Eligibility. A score of 550+ on the Reading and Writing section of the PSAT. English III. PreACT Reading and Writing 43.
Note: Core, Requirement
This course focuses on British literature, challenging students to critically engage with classic and modern texts through a Christ-centered lens while exploring themes like morality, identity, and the human condition. Grounded in standards-based learning, the curriculum emphasizes advanced vocabulary, word analysis, and the development of reading, writing, and analytical skills. Best practices include active listening and accountable talk, fostering thoughtful discussions and collaborative learning, while writing instruction focuses on crafting sophisticated argumentative, informative, and narrative essays, preparing students for college-level writing and discourse. Technological tools like Membean and IXL support vocabulary growth and comprehension, while writing assignments help students craft unique and thought-provoking pieces. This rigorous program fosters thoughtful, reflective thinkers prepared for academic and personal success.
ENGLISH
AP ENGLISH LITERATURE & COMPOSITION (ENGLISH IV)
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 12
FLDOE: 1001430
CGHS: 0138-0139
Prerequisite(s): See Advanced Placement Eligibility. A score of 600+ on the Reading and Writing section of the PSAT. English III Honors or AP English Language. PreACT Reading and Writing 43. Corequisite: Students are required to take the AP College Board exam.
Note: Core, Requirement
This 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 analytical and argumentative techniques that require students to interpret literary works.
ENGLISH ELECTIVES
CREATIVE WRITING
Credits: 0.5 /Semester
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): None
Note: Elective
FLDOE: 1009320
CGHS: 0157
This course cultivates students’ creative writing skills by exposing them to effective creative exercises, video lectures from famous writers, and inspirational materials. Students will explore and experiment with the literary forms of short story and poetry. Students will participate in peer reviews of their writings. * Contributes to the CGHS Fine Arts requirement for 10-12th grades only.
CREATIVE WRITING HONORS
Credits: 0.5 /Semester
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
FLDOE: 1009331
CGHS: 0159
Prerequisite(s): See Honors Eligibility. A score of 550 on the Reading and Writing section of the PSAT.
Co-Requisite(s): English Honors
Note: Elective
This course cultivates students’ creative writing skills by exposing them to effective creative exercises, video lectures from famous writers, and inspirational materials. Students will explore and experiment with the literary forms of short story, poetry, novella, screenwriting, and drama. Students will participate in peer reviews of their writings and prepare a publishable work for submission by the semester’s end. * Contributes to the CGHS Fine Arts requirement for 10-12th grades only.
CONTEMPORARY LITERATURE HONORS
Credits: 0.5 /Semester
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Corequisite(s): English Honors
Note: Elective
FLDOE: 1020840
CGHS: 0166
The purpose of this course is to enable students, using texts of high complexity, to develop knowledge of contemporary literature through advanced integrated educational experiences of reading, writing, speaking and listening, and language. Emphasis will be on representative contemporary literature, with its varied cultural influences, highlighting the major genres, themes, issues, and influences associated throughout the literary period.
ENGLISH
JOURNALISM HONORS
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): See Honors Eligibility.
Corequisite: Enrolled in an honors English Course
Note: School Newspaper (Insight)
FLDOE: 1006331
CGHS: 0090-0091
This course provides students with an introduction to the principles and practices of journalism, equipping them with essential skills in research, writing, editing, and media production. Students will explore the ethics of journalism, the role of the press in society, and the impact of digital media on news consumption. Through hands-on experiences, students will learn to gather accurate information, conduct interviews, write news articles, and craft various journalistic pieces, including feature stories, editorials, and reviews. The course also emphasizes the importance of media literacy, teaching students to critically evaluate sources and understand the evolving nature of news in the digital age. Students will collaborate to produce content for school publications, allowing them to apply their skills in real-world contexts while developing a strong foundation for future studies or careers in journalism and communications.
WRITING FOR COLLEGE SUCCESS
Credits: 0.5 /Semester
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): None
Note: Elective
FLDOE: 1009370
CGHS: 0154
This course is targeted at students who are not “college-ready” in writing. This course incorporates language study, the practice of writing craft strategies, the practice of proper educational researching, and the analysis of writing selections to develop the critical writing skills necessary for success in Florida college English courses. The benchmarks reflect the Florida College Competencies.
DUAL ENROLLMENT FIRST YEAR COMPOSITION & RHETORIC
Credits: 0.5 /Semester (3 university credits)
Grade Level: 12
FLDOE: ENC 1101
CGHS: 0167
Prerequisite(s): See Dual Enrollment Eligibility. AP English Language. Note: Elective. Course is equivalent to ENC 1101 at most in-state universities. Recommendation: Students who have taken English III Honors or earned a 1 or 2 on AP English Language.
This course offers an introduction to college-level academic discourse about non-fiction, including articles, passages, documentaries, memoirs, websites, and other informational texts. Students develop skills in textual analysis, writing, grammar and vocabulary, secondary research, and critical argumentation through advanced research and writing, including the writing of a research paper using appropriate formatting styles. A minimum grade of “C” is required to earn credit and satisfy graduation requirements.
DUAL ENROLLMENT WRITING ABOUT LITERATURE
Credits: 0.5 /Semester (3 university credits)
Grade Level: 12
FLDOE: ENC 1102
CGHS: 0168
Prerequisite(s): See Dual Enrollment Eligibility. 3 or higher on AP English Language Exam or ENC 1101.
Note: Elective. Course is equivalent to ENC 1102 credit at most in-state universities.
This course offers an introduction to academic discourse through college-level academic discourse about literary fiction, including poetry, short stories, TV shows and film, and non-print literature, including advanced reading and writing about literature. Students design and execute extensive research projects involving primary and secondary research.
ENGLISH
AP CAPSTONE DIPLOMA
The Advanced Placement (AP) Capstone Diploma is granted to students who earn scores of 3 or higher in AP Seminar and AP Research and on 4 additional AP Exams of their choosing. The AP Seminar and Research Certificate is granted to students who earn scores of 3 or higher in both AP Seminar and AP Research. *More information regarding the 4 additional AP classes per College Board and Bright Futures
AP CAPSTONE SEMINAR
FLDOE: 1700500
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0140-0141
Grade Level: 10, 11
Prerequisite(s): See AP Eligibility. English I Honors. PSAT Reading of 550 or higher. Teacher recommendation required. Note: AP Capstone Diploma
This course is an interdisciplinary class that encourages students to demonstrate critical thinking, collaboration, and academic research skills on topics of the student’s choosing. To accommodate the wide range of student topics, typical college course equivalents include interdisciplinary or general elective courses.
AP CAPSTONE RESEARCH
FLDOE: 1700510
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0142-0143
Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite(s): See AP Eligibility. English Honors. PSAT Reading of 550 or higher. Teacher recommendation required. AP Seminar and earned a 3 or higher on AP Exam Corequisite: Students are required to take the AP College Board exam. Note: AP Capstone Diploma
This is the second course in the AP Capstone experience. It allows students to deeply explore an academic topic, problem, issue, or idea of individual interest. Students design, plan, and implement a yearlong investigation to address a research question. Through this inquiry, they further the skills they acquired in the AP Seminar course by learning research methodology, employing ethical research practices, and accessing, analyzing, and synthesizing information. Students reflect on their skill development, document their processes, and curate the artifacts of their scholarly work through a process and reflection portfolio. The course culminates in an academic paper of 4,000–5,000 words (accompanied by a performance, exhibit, or product where applicable) and a presentation with an oral defense.
MATHEMATICS
Graduation Requirement: Four (4) credits of Mathematics must be taken at Cardinal Gibbons High School; must include Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II
The Mathematics Department seeks to foster an individual student’s mathematical skills by building a strong mathematical foundation, challenging a student’s potential, and encouraging students to advance their mathematical fluency.
Students are required to have a graphing calculator.
The following descriptions and designations for Mathematics courses have been assigned.
Math Track
Preparatory Math Track
Please note that a strong fundation in Algebra I is essential to be successful in high school and college math courses.
during senior year only.
ALGEBRA I STANDARD
MATHEMATICS
FLDOE: 1200310
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0212-0213
Grade Level: 9
Prerequisite(s): Freshman placement based on HSPT, previous grades.
Corequisite: Foundational Skills in Math Note: Fundamental Course, Core, Requirement
This course is designed to introduce the student to the concept of the variable and to the development of problemsolving skills. Equations, inequalities, polynomials, functions, and the structure and properties of real numbers are the primary concern. Problem-solving is given adequate treatment, as well as relationships to STEAM projects, which help explain real- world scenarios. A graphing calculator is required.
FOUNDATIONAL SKILLS IN MATH - 9
FLDOE: 1200400
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0276-0277
Grade Level: 9
Corequisite: Algebra I Standard Note: Fundamental Course
Must be taken in conjunction with Algebra I Fundamental to provide additional support to students needing to develop their foundational skills in that subject area.
ALGEBRA I COLLEGE PREP
FLDOE: 1200310
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0214-0215
Grade Level: 9
Prerequisite(s): Freshman placement based on HSPT, previous grades, and Course Advancement Exams. Note: Core, Requirement
This course is designed to introduce the student to the concept of the variable and to the development of problemsolving skills. Equations, inequalities, polynomials, functions, and the structure and properties of real numbers are the primary concern. Problem-solving is given adequate treatment, as well as relationships to STEAM projects, which help explain real- world scenarios. A graphing calculator is required.
ALGEBRA I HONORS
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 9
FLDOE: 1200320
CGHS: 0216-0217
Prerequisite(s): See Honors Eligibility. Freshman placement based on HSPT, previous grades, and Course Advancement Exams. Note: Core, Requirement
This course is designed for students with a high mathematical aptitude who have mastered basic algebraic concepts. The course covers more challenging material at an accelerated pace. Topics within the real number system include graphing of linear equations and inequalities and their systems. Quadratic equations, functions, polynomial expressions, equations, irrational numbers, and radicals are included. The students will form relationships to STEAM projects, which help explain real-world scenarios. A graphing calculator is required.
GEOMETRY STANDARD
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 9, 10
Prerequisite(s): Previous grades in Algebra I. Note: Fundamental Course, Core, Requirement
FLDOE: 1206310
CGHS: 0222-0223
This course is a study of points, lines, and planes with respect to angles, parallel lines, triangles, other polygons, and circles. Emphasis is placed on proofs, areas, and volumes. Introductory concepts pertaining to coordinate geometry and algebra are explored, as well as relationships to STEAM projects, which help explain real-world scenarios. A graphing calculator is required.
GEOMETRY COLLEGE PREP
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 9, 10
MATHEMATICS
FLDOE: 1206310
CGHS: 0224-0225
Prerequisite(s): Algebra I. Freshman placement based on HSPT, previous grades, and Course Advancement Exams. Note: Core, Requirement
This course is a study of points, lines, and planes with respect to angles, parallel lines, triangles, other polygons, and circles. Emphasis is placed on proofs, areas, and volumes. Introductory concepts pertaining to coordinate geometry and algebra are explored, as well as relationships to STEAM projects, which help explain real-world scenarios. A graphing calculator is required.
GEOMETRY HONORS
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 9, 10
FLDOE: 1206320
CGHS: 0226-0227
Prerequisite(s): See Honors Eligibility. Algebra I. Freshman placement based on HSPT, previous grades, and Course Advancement Exams. Minimum PSAT 500, PreACT 18.
Note: Core, Requirement
This course is the study of the Euclidean concept of points, lines, planes, angles, dihedral angles, triangles, and other polygons, circles, spheres, and other solids. There is some exposure to non-Euclidean geometries. Emphasis is placed on proofs, application of algebra, and the real number system, as well as relationships to STEAM projects, which help explain real-world scenarios. A graphing calculator is required.
ALGEBRA II STANDARD
FLDOE: 1200330
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0232-0233
Grade Level: 11
Prerequisite(s): Algebra I and Geometry. Freshman placement based on HSPT, previous grades, and Course Advancement Exams.
Note: Core
This course extends the topics of Algebra I, presents functions and relations, radicals, exponents and logarithms, quadratic equations, complex numbers, and conics, as well as relationships to STEAM projects, which help explain real-world scenarios. Emphsis is placed on solving equations and graphing functions. A graphing calculator is required.
ALGEBRA II COLLEGE PREP
FLDOE: 1200330
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0234-0235
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11
Prerequisite(s): Algebra I and Geometry. Freshman placement based on HSPT, previous grades, and Course Advancement Exams.
Note: Core, Requirement
This course extends the topics of Algebra I, presents functions and relations, radicals, exponents and logarithms, quadratic equations, complex numbers, and conics, as well as relationships to STEAM projects, which help explain real-world scenarios. A graphing calculator is required.
MATHEMATICS
ALGEBRA II HONORS
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11
FLDOE: 1200340
CGHS: 0236-0237
Prerequisite(s): See Honors Eligibility. Algebra I and Geometry. Freshman placement based on HSPT, previous grades, and Course Advancement Exams, PSAT 500, PreACT 18.
Note: Core, Requirement
This course is an in-depth study of linear and quadratic polynomial functions, systems of equations and inequalities, determinants, polynomial functions and equations, complex numbers, conic sections, rational exponents and radicals, exponential and logarithmic functions, as well as relationships to STEAM projects, which help explain real-world scenarios. A graphing calculator is required.
MATHEMATICS FOR COLLEGE ALGEBRA
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite(s): Algebra II
Note: Core
FLDOE: 1200710
CGHS: 0266-0267
This course is recommended for the college-bound student who does not take Pre-Calculus. This course reviews skills taught in Algebra II, expands on these topics and introduces new material, as well as relationships to STEAM projects, which help explain real-world scenarios. The new topics include logarithms and trigonometric functions. A graphing calculator is required.
MATH FOR DATA AND FINANCIAL LITERACY
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Algebra II
Note: Core
FLDOE: 1200384
CGHS: 0268-0269
This course is designed to equip students with the essential mathematical skills required to understand and navigate data-driven decision-making and financial concepts. The course is tailored to the unique needs of Florida’s diverse student population, focusing on practical applications that directly impact personal finance, economic decisions, and data analysis in the modern world. Throughout this course, students will explore foundational mathematical techniques in areas such as statistics, probability, algebra, and financial mathematics. Emphasis will be placed on realworld applications, including budgeting, investing, debt management, and interpreting financial data. Additionally, students will develop an understanding of how mathematical models are used to analyze and predict financial trends, evaluate risks, and make informed decisions.
PRECALCULUS COLLEGE PREP
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Algebra II
Note: Core
FLDOE: 1202340
CGHS: 0242-0243
This course deals with those aspects of mathematics associated with functions and relations, trigonometric and inverse trigonometric functions, complex numbers, and conics. The students will form relationships to STREAM projects, which help explain real-world scenarios. A graphing calculator is required.
PRECALCULUS HONORS
MATHEMATICS
FLDOE: 1202340
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0244-0245
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): See Honors Eligibility. Algebra II Honors, PSAT 550. Note: Core
This course deals with those aspects of mathematics associated with functions and relations, trigonometric and inverse trigonometric functions, complex numbers, and conics at an advanced level. The students will form relationships to STREAM projects, which help explain real-world scenarios. The course is designed to prepare the student for AP Calculus. A graphing calculator is required.
AP PRECALCULUS
FLDOE: 1202305
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0246-0247
Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite(s): See Advanced Placement Eligibility. Algebra II Honors. Minimum PSAT 550. Teacher recommendation. Note: Core
AP Precalculus centers on functions modeling dynamic phenomena. In this course, students will investigate functions such as polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, trigonometric, and polar and explore vectors and matrices. The course is structured to provide a coherent capstone experience rather than exclusively focusing on preparation for future courses. Students must take the nationally standardized AP exam in May. A graphing calculator is required.
CALCULUS HONORS
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): See Honors Eligibility. Precalculus
Note: Core
FLDOE: 1202300
CGHS: 0251-0252
This course is designed for students who have completed a year course in Precalculus. The course includes the study of the derivative, the integral, and basic applications, such as the graphing of functions, maximum-minimum problems, related rates, areas, and volumes. The students will form relationships to STEAM projects, which help explain real-world scenarios. A graphing calculator is required.
AP CALCULUS AB
FLDOE: 1202310
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0254-0255
Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): See Advanced Placement Eligibility. Calculus Honors
Note: Core
This course is designed for students who have completed Pre-Calculus Honors. The course continues the study of the derivative and its applications and introduces the integral calculus with its geometrical and physical applications as well as relationships to STEAM projects, which help explain real-world scenarios. The course follows the AP Syllabus for AB Calculus. A graphing calculator is required. Students must take the nationally standardized AP exam in May.
MATHEMATICS
AP CALCULUS BC
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): See Advanced Placement Eligibility. AP Calculus AB Note: Core
FLDOE: 1202320
CGHS: 0257-0258
This course is a study of essential concepts of differential and integral Calculus of single-variable functions in Calculus I and II. It is designed for students who are interested in the fields of Mathematics, Engineering, and the Sciences and who have a strong aptitude for Mathematics. This course follows the AP syllabus for Calculus BC. Students must take the nationally standardized AP exam in May.
AP STATISTICS
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 11, 12
FLDOE: 1210320
CGHS: 0272-0273
Prerequisite(s): See Advanced Placement Eligibility. Algebra II Honors. Teacher Recommendation. SAT 550. Note: Elective
This course is the equivalent of a college course in introductory statistics. The course will continue the study and focus on four major themes: exploring data, planning a study, anticipation of patterns, and statistical inference. As part of an effort to develop effective statistical communication skills, students will be frequently required to prepare written and oral analyses of real data. Students will develop strategies for collecting, organizing, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. Students will design and administer surveys and experiments, and then they will tabulate and analyze results from these experiments. Students will study probability, perform simulations, and understand how sampling distributions are related to confidence intervals and hypothesis tests. It is offered as a math elective to be taken in addition to a year-long math course such as Pre-Calculus, or Calculus. A graphing calculator is required. Students must take the nationally standardized AP exam in May.
SCIENCE, ENGINEERING AND COMPUTER SCIENCES
Graduation Requirement: Three (3) credits of science must be completed; two (2) of which must contain a laboratory component. Biology I is required. The Science Department incorporates tools and laboratory components that help to develop analytical, experimental, and experiential skills for individual students. Students will draw conclusions from empirical evidence and develop fundamental knowledge and scientific literacy through various coursework. The following descriptions and designations for Science courses have been assigned. Note: Engineering, Robotics, and Computer Science classes cannot be used to fulfill the Science requirement for graduation.
* See Career Readiness Pathways for Engineering and Computer Science courses.
HIGH SCHOOL SCIENCE REQUIREMENTS
Grade Level Appropriate
* Does not meet science requirements.
SCIENCE, ENGINEERING AND COMPUTER SCIENCES
BIOLOGY I
FLDOE: 2000310
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0410-0411
Grade Level: 9
Prerequisite(s): None
Note: Core, Requirement, Lab
This course is a required course. It is designed to introduce the student to the study of living organisms. Topics covered include the nature of life, biochemistry, cell structure and function, genetics, evolution, microorganisms and fungi, plants, invertebrate animals, chordate animals, the human body, and ecology. Laboratory experiences are stressed throughout the course.
BIOLOGY I HONORS
FLDOE: 2000320
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0412-0413
Grade Level: 9
Prerequisite(s): Review of previous science grades, HSPT performance, and Course Advancement Exam. Note: Core, Requirement, Lab
Biology Honors covers the details of life processes and patterns, encompassing biochemistry, cellular biology, genetics, evolution, current biotechnologies, and ecology. A strong focus is placed on analytical thinking and laboratory experiences, preparing students for advanced or AP science classes. Coursework includes laboratory reports, research paper analysis, and data analysis with graphing. The inclusion of current biotechnology and cell growth topics combined with medicinal applications gives a modern perspective, emphasizing recent developments and real-world applications.
AP BIOLOGY
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
FLDOE: 2000340
CGHS: 0414-0415
Prerequisite(s): See Advanced Placement Eligibility. Biology I Honors or Chemistry Honors, or Anatomy Honors Note: Core, Elective, Lab
This course is designed for those students planning to study in a science-related major in college. It is a challenging, college-major level course that follows the curriculum outlined by the College Board and requires students to apply the skills learned in Biology I. The curriculum is based upon the Four Big Ideas for Biology. Laboratory experiences and analysis are an integral part of the course. Students enrolled in the class will be asked to participate in laboratory or review sessions outside of regular school hours. Students must take the nationally standardized AP exam in May.
CHEMISTRY I
FLDOE: 2003340
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0420-0421
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): C or higher in Biology I and Algebra I
Note: Core, Requirement, Lab
This course is an in-depth study of chemical reactions, atomic theory, the periodic table of elements, and a general introduction of stoichiometry and all upper-level branches of chemistry. Lab experiments are included for each unit of study.
SCIENCE, ENGINEERING AND COMPUTER SCIENCES
CHEMISTRY I HONORS
FLDOE: 2003350
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0422-0423
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): See Honors Eligibility. Biology I and A or B average in Algebra I. Corequisite: Geometry
Note: Core, Requirement, Lab
This course is an accelerated program, including atomic theory, periodicity, chemical bonding, organic chemistry, and stoichiometry. There is a strong emphasis on analytical thinking, data analysis with graphing, and hands-on laboratory experiences, all designed to prepare students for advanced or AP science courses.
AP CHEMISTRY
FLDOE: 2003370
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0428-0429
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): See Advanced Placement Eligibility. Chemistry I Honors and Geometry Honors. Candidates may be asked to pass a qualifying exam.
Note: Core, Elective, Lab. Students take AP Chemistry immediately following Chem I H
This course is designed for students planning to continue in science or a science-related field in college. It is taught on the college level and follows The Advanced Placement syllabus provided by the College Board. The course reviews and applies the Six Big Ideas for Chemistry. Laboratory experiences and analysis are an integral part of this course. Students enrolled in this course may be asked to complete specific assignments during the summer, before classes begin in August and to participate in laboratory or review sessions outside of regular school hours. Students must take the nationally standardized AP exam in May.
ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY
FLDOE: 2000350
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0431-0432
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Biology I
Note: Core, Requirement, Lab, EMT Pathway, Allied Health Sciences Pathway
This course focuses on the human body systems, exploring the key features and functions of each. It also examines both the internal and external structures of the body and their interrelationships. Students engage in an interactive, hands-on learning environment through the use of models, simulations, and dissections. Dissection labs are a required component of the course.
ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY HONORS
FLDOE: 2000360
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0433-0434
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): See Honors Eligibility. Biology I.
Note: Core, Requirement, Lab, EMT Pathway, Allied Health Sciences Pathway
This course provides an understanding of the organs and organ systems of the human body and comparative vertebrate anatomy. Pathophysiology and clinical correlations are included in each system unit. Dissection labs are required. This challenging, college-major level course is designed for students interested in pursuing a medical career.
SCIENCE, ENGINEERING AND COMPUTER SCIENCES
PHYSICS
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Algebra II and Biology.
Corequisite: Pre-Calculus Honors
Note: Science Elective, Lab
FLDOE: 2003380
CGHS: 0440-0441
This course provides conceptually-based exposure to the fundamental principles and processes of the physical world. Subjects covered in the class include mechanics, work and energy, thermodynamics, waves, optics, electricity and magnetism, and modern physics. Students need a strong understanding of Algebra and Geometry. Demonstrations and labs are used to supplement classroom lectures and discussion.
PHYSICS I HONORS
FLDOE: 2003390
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0442-0443
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): See Honors Eligibility. Algebra II and Biology.
Corequisite: Pre-Calculus Honors
Note: Science Elective, Lab
This course provides conceptually-based exposure to the fundamental principles and processes of the physical world. Subjects covered in the class include mechanics, work and energy, thermodynamics, waves, optics, electricity and magnetism, and modern physics. Students need a strong understanding of Algebra and Geometry. Demonstrations and labs are used to supplement classroom lectures and discussion.
DE FOUNDATIONS OF ANATOMY WITH LAB
Credits: 0.5 /Semester (4 university credits)
Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite(s): See Dual Enrollment Eligibility. Anatomy & Physiology Honors.
FLDOE: BIO 220/220L
CGHS: 0418
This course explores the fundamental elements of human structure and function, including cellular physiology, tissue organization, and major body systems such as the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, and sensory systems. Key concepts like homeostasis will be emphasized throughout. The course also covers the cardiovascular, lymphatic, immune, respiratory, digestive, metabolic, renal, fluid/electrolyte balance, acid/base balance, and reproductive systems. The laboratory component provides hands-on experiences that foster critical thinking, understanding of scientific methodology, and application of scientific principles. Dissection labs are a required part of the course.
DE FOUNDATIONS OF PHYSIOLOGY WITH LAB
FLDOE: BIO 240/240L
Credits: 0.5 /Semester (4 university credits) CGHS: 0419
Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite(s): A or B in DE Anatomy. See Dual Enrollment Eligibility.
This course is a survey of the functions of the organ systems in the human body and provides a strong foundation in human anatomy and physiology (through both lecture and lab) for students preparing for a variety of health-related professions.
SCIENCE, ENGINEERING AND COMPUTER SCIENCES
AP ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
FLDOE: 2001380
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0453-0454
Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): A or B in Biology H and Chemistry H, Honors Math
Corequisite: Geometry
Note: Science Elective, Lab
The AP Environmental Science course is designed to be the equivalent of a one-semester, introductory college course in environmental science. The goal of this interdisciplinary course is to provide students with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world, to identify and analyze environmental problems both natural and human-made, to evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and to examine alternative solutions for resolving or preventing them. Additionally, it also provides students with opportunities to practice applying scientific methods to practical, real-life problems. Twenty-five percent of the course instruction will include hands-on, inquiry-based or field investigations. Students enrolled in the class may be asked to participate in laboratory or review sessions outside of regular school hours. Students must take the nationally standardized AP exam in May.
SCIENCE ELECTIVES
EARTH/SPACE SCIENCE
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Biology I and Chemistry or Anatomy
Note: Science Elective
FLDOE: 2001310
CGHS: 0476-0477
Earth and Space Science focuses on the structure and development of the Earth and its environment over time including the formation of the universe and Earth’s place in space. The course is composed of segments from Geology and Astronomy.
FORENSIC SCIENCE
FLDOE: 2002480
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0465-0466
Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Biology I and Chemistry or Anatomy
Note: Science Elective
This course surveys key topics in forensic science, including the application of the scientific process to forensic analysis, procedures and principles of crime scene investigation, physical and trace evidence, and the law and courtroom procedures from the perspective of the forensic scientist. Students will learn about forensic tools, technical resources, proper data collection, and how to analyze fictional crime scenarios. (Seniors receive preference for this elective.)
MARINE SCIENCE
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Biology and Chemistry or Anatomy.
Note: Science Elective. Seniors receive preference for this elective.
FLDOE: 2002500
CGHS: 0435-0436
Marine science is an elective course focusing on the identification, classification and interaction of marine organisms. Topics of study will include the following ecological concepts of the sandy beach, rocky shore, coral reefs, benthic communities, seaweeds, platonic forms, marine bacteria, marine life cycles, nekton, benthos, mangroves, estuaries, marine resources, and marine pollution. Students also explore the relationships of marine science to their interests, to career opportunities and to the historical contributions of science.
SCIENCE, ENGINEERING AND COMPUTER SCIENCES
MARINE SCIENCE HONORS
FLDOE: 2002510
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0437-0438
Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): See Honors Eligibility. Biology I and Chemistry or Anatomy
Note: Science Elective. Seniors receive preference for this elective.
This course provides students with the opportunity to explore and investigate the four main disciplines of oceanography: marine geology, marine chemistry, physical and biological oceanography. Topics of study will include: maritime heritage, oceanographic instruments, the chemistry of seawater, ocean sediments, ocean circulation, life in the oceans, habitats, including: the sandy beach, rocky shore, coral reefs, benthic communities, seaweeds, platonic forms, marine bacteria, marine life cycles, nekton, benthos, mangroves, estuaries, marine resources, marine pollution, the use of submersibles, ROV’s, and AUV’s and current issues created by the interaction of science and technology. Students also explore the relationships of marine biology/oceanography to their interests and future career opportunities.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE HONORS
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): See Honors Eligibility. Biology I and Chemistry
Corequisite: Algebra II
Note: Science Elective
FLDOE: 2001341
CGHS: 0451-0452
This course is an introductory course designed to provide the student with a strong understanding of the concepts of the ecosystem, sustainability, ecological problems, and man’s role in the environment. The student will analyze Florida’s ecology, including native ecosystems and organisms. This course will also introduce careers in environmental science and related fields. Lab experience is included. (Seniors receive preference for this elective.)
AP PHYSICS C: ELECTRICITY AND MAGNETISM
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 12
FLDOE: 2003425
CGHS: 0448-0449
Prerequisite(s): See Advanced Placement Eligibility. Physics I Honors and Calculus Honors, AP Physics Mechanics
Note: Science Elective, Lab
This calculus-based, college-level course will explore electrostatics, conductors, capacitors, dielectrics, electric circuits, magnetic fields, and electromagnetism. This course is appropriate for students planning to specialize or major in one of the physical sciences or engineering. You’ll do hands-on laboratory work and in-class activities to investigate phenomena and use calculus to solve problems. Students must take the nationally standardized AP exam in May.
AP PHYSICS C: MECHANICS
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): See Advanced Placement Eligibility. Physics I Honors and Pre-Calculus Honors
Corequisite: Calculus Honors or higher.
Note: Science Elective, Lab
FLDOE: 2003430
CGHS: 0444-0445
This calculus-based, college-level course will explore kinematics, Newton’s Laws, work and energy, impulse, linear momentum, torque, angular momentum, oscillations, and gravitation. You’ll do hands-on laboratory work and inclass activities to investigate phenomena and use calculus to solve problems. Students must take the nationally standardized AP exam in May.
SCIENCE, ENGINEERING AND COMPUTER SCIENCES
METEOROLOGY HONORS
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Biology I and Science Lb Course. See Honors Eligibility.
Note: Not an elective for science credit.
FLDOE: 2001330
CGHS: 0480-0481
This interdisciplinary science course covers the fundamentals of meteorology, emphasizing the physical and chemical processes that control Earth’s weather, climate, solar energy, atmospheric and oceanic movement, and energy transfer. Students will study and practice weather prediction using technology, data and models, and learn the forces behind the formation of severe weather events. Students have the opportunity to access real-world empirical data to study weather patterns both globally and locally, model the processes that impact changes using basic mathematical expressions, graphing and statistics, and test the relationship between predictions and observations.
COMPUTER SCIENCE DISCOVERIES
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 9-11
Prerequisite(s): N/A
Note: Students interested in Computer Science Pathway are encouraged to take this in 9th grade.
FLDOE: 0200305
CGHS: 0846-0847
This course is a project based introductory course that engages students in foundational computer science concepts while promoting creativity, collaboration, and problem solving. Students explore algorithms, programming, web development, data and information, physical computing, and the societal impacts of computing through hands-on, real world applications. Designed for students with little to no prior experience, the course builds computational thinking, ethical awareness, and digital citizenship, equipping students with essential skills and a strong foundation for continued study in computer science and related fields.
INTRODUCTION TO ENGINEERING DESIGN HONORS
FLDOE: 8600550
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0491-0492
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): None
Note: Elective
This honors-level course introduces students to the engineering design process. Students develop solutions using problem-solving strategies, technical drawings, and modeling tools. Emphasis is placed on creativity, precision, collaboration, and real-world engineering challenges.
SOCIAL STUDIES & BUSINESS
Graduation Requirement: Three (3) credits of Social Studies must be completed: World History, U.S. History, American Government, and Economics are required. Business Course Requirement: Personal Finance and Money Management (10th Grade).
Note: Business courses do not fulfill the Social Studies requirement for graduation. See Career Readiness Pathways.
The following descriptions and designations for Social Studies courses have been assigned.
Honors and Advanced Level Course Note: Advanced courses require a greater demand on students through increased academic rigor. Academic rigor is obtained through the application, analysis, evaluation, and creation of complex ideas that are often abstract and multi-faceted. Students are challenged to think and collaborate critically on the content they are learning. Students enrolled in an AP course must take the nationally standardized AP exam in May to receive course credit.
HIGH SCHOOL SOCIAL STUDIES REQUIREMENTS
* Hybrid course that satisfies online requirement for graduation beginning in the 2023-2024 school
WORLD HISTORY
SOCIAL STUDIES & BUSINESS
FLDOE: 2109310
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0310-0311
Grade Level: 9
Prerequisite(s): None
Note: Core, Requirement
This course consists of the following content area strands: World History, Geography, and Humanities. This course is a continuation of the in-depth study of the history of civilizations and societies from the middle school course. It includes the history of civilizations and societies of North and South America. Students will be exposed to historical periods leading to the beginning of the 21st Century.
WORLD HISTORY HONORS
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 9
Prerequisite(s): Course advancement exams, HSPT, and previous grades.
Note: Core, Requirement, See Honors and Advanced Level Course Note on page 42
FLDOE: 2109320
CGHS: 0312-0313
This course consists of the following content area strands: World History, Geography and Humanities. This course is a continued in-depth study of the history of civilizations and societies from the middle school course, and includes the history of civilizations and societies of North and South America at the honors level. Students will be exposed to historical periods leading to the beginning of the 21st Century. Special emphasis is given to the development of critical thinking skills and written expression.
AP WORLD HISTORY: MODERN
FLDOE: 2109420
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0314-0315
Grade Level: 9
Prerequisite(s): Course advancement exams, HSPT, and previous grades.
Note: Core, Requirement, See Honors and Advanced Level Course Note on page 42
This course is designed to represent college-level studies. Students focus on the cultural, economic, political, and social developments that have shaped the world from 1200 C.E. to the present. Emphasis is on analysis of texts, visual sources, and other historical evidence and writing essays expressing historical arguments. Core skills include: evaluating primary and secondary sources, contextualization, analyzing claims and evidence, and crafting a thesis with support from specific historical evidence. Students must take the nationally standardized AP exam in May.
U.S. HISTORY
SOCIAL STUDIES & BUSINESS
FLDOE: 2100310
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0330-0331
Grade Level: 11
Prerequisite(s): None
Note: Core, Requirement
This course consists of the following content area strands: United States History, Geography, and Humanities. The primary content emphasis for this course pertains to the study of United States history from Reconstruction to the present day. Students will be exposed to the historical, geographic, political, economic, and sociological events which influenced the development of the United States and the resulting impact on world history.
U.S. HISTORY HONORS
FLDOE: 2100320
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0332-0333
Grade Level: 11
Prerequisite(s): See Honors Eligibility. A score of 550+ on the PSAT Reading and Writing section
Note: Core, Requirement, See Honors and Advanced Level Course Note on page 42. PreAct Reading and Writing 43.
This course consists of the following content area strands: United States History, Geography, and Humanities at an honors level. The primary content emphasis for this course pertains to the study of United States history from Reconstruction to the present day. Students will be exposed to the historical, geographic, political, economic, and sociological events which influenced the development of the United States and the resulting impact on world history. So that students can clearly see the relationship between cause and effect in historical events, students should have the opportunity to review those fundamental ideas and events which occurred before the end of Reconstruction. The emphasis in this course is on the development of critical thinking skills.
AP U.S. HISTORY
FLDOE: 2100330
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0334-0335
Grade Level: 11
Prerequisite(s): See Advanced Placement Eligibility. A score of 600+ on the PSAT Reading and Writing section. Note: Core, Requirement, See Honors and Advanced Level Course Note on page 42. PreAct Reading and Writing 43. This course is designed to represent college-level history studies. Students are expected to achieve college-level writing skills, knowledge of historical events and concepts, and the ability to interpret historical documents. The course is intended for students who possess a strong background in history and writing. Students are required to write four (4) historical essays and four (4) documentary based essays per semester. Students must take the nationally standardized AP exam in May.
U.S. GOVERNMENT
Credits: 0.5 /Semester
Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite(s): None
Note: Core, Requirement
FLDOE: 2106310
CGHS: 0340
The primary content for the course pertains to the study of government institutions and political processes and their historical impact on American society. Content should include, but is not limited to, the functions and purpose of government, the function of the state, the constitutional framework, federalism, separation of powers, and functions of the three branches of government at the local, state, and national level, and the political decision-making process.
U.S. GOVERNMENT HONORS
Credits: 0.5 /Semester
Grade Level: 12
FLDOE: 2106320
CGHS: 0341
Prerequisite(s): See Honors Eligibility. Score of 550+ on the PSAT Reading and Writing section. Note: Core, Requirement, See Honors and Advanced Level Course Note on page 42. PreAct Reading and Writing 43. The primary content for the course pertains to the study of government institutions and political processes and their
SOCIAL STUDIES & BUSINESS
historical impact on American society. Content should include, but is not limited to, the functions and purpose of government, the function of the state, the constitutional framework, federalism, separation of powers, and functions of the three branches of government at the local, state, and national level, and the political decision-making process.
AP U.S. GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS
Credits: 0.5 /Semester
Grade Level: 12
FLDOE: 2106420
CGHS: 0342
Prerequisite(s): See Advanced Placement Eligibility. A score of 600+ on the PSAT Reading and Writing section. Note: Core, Requirement, See Honors and Advanced Level Course Note on page 42. PreAct Reading and Writing 49. This is an introductory college-level course in U.S. government and politics. Students cultivate their understanding of U.S. government and politics through analysis of data and text- based sources as they explore topics like constitutionalism, liberty and order, civic participation in a representative democracy, competing policy-making interests, and methods of political analysis. The course is one semester and all students must take the nationally standardized AP exam in May.
ECONOMICS
Credits: 0.5 /Semester
Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite(s): None
Note: Core, Requirement, See Honors and Advanced Level Course Note on page 42
FLDOE: 2102310
CGHS: 0345
This course’s primary emphasis is on the study of the concepts and processes of national and international economic systems. Content should include, but is not limited to, currency, banking, and monetary policy, the fundamental concepts relevant to the major economic systems, the global market and economy, major economic theories and economists, the role and influence of the government and fiscal policies, economic measurements, tools, and methodology, financial and investment markets, and the business cycle.
ECONOMICS HONORS
Credits: 0.5 /Semester
Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite(s): See Honors Eligibility.
Note: Core, Requirement, See Honors and Advanced Level Course Note on page 42
FLDOE: 2102320
CGHS: 0346
This course’s primary emphasis is on the study of the concepts and processes of national and international economic systems. Content should include, but is not limited to, currency, banking, and monetary policy, the fundamental concepts relevant to the major economic systems, the global market and economy, major economic theories and economists, the role and influence of the government and fiscal policies, economic measurements, tools, and methodology, financial and investment markets, and the business cycle.
AP MACROECONOMICS
Credits: 0.5 /Semester
Grade Level: 12
FLDOE: 2102370
CGHS: 0352
Prerequisite(s): See Advanced Placement Eligibility. Algebra II and a score of 600+ on the PSAT Reading and Writing section. Note: Core, Satisfies Economics Graduation Requirement, See Honors and Advanced Level Course Note on page 42. PreAct Reading and Writing 49.
AP Macroeconomics is an introductory college-level macroeconomics course. Students cultivate their understanding of the principles that apply to an economic system as a whole by using principles and models to describe economic situations and predict and explain outcomes with graphs, charts, and data as they explore concepts like economic measurements, markets, macroeconomic models, and macroeconomic policies. Students must take the nationally standardized AP exam in May.
SOCIAL STUDIES & BUSINESS
AP MICROECONOMICS
Credits: 0.5 /Semester
Grade Level: 12
FLDOE: 2102360
CGHS: 0353
Prerequisite(s): See Advanced Placement Eligibility. Algebra II and a score of 600+ on the PSAT Reading and Writing section. Note: Core, Satisfies Economics Graduation Requirement, See Honors and Advanced Level Course Note on page 42. PreAct Reading and Writing 49.
AP Microeconomics is an introductory college-level microeconomics course. Students cultivate their understanding of the principles that apply to the functions of individual economic decision-makers by using principles and models to describe economic situations and predict and explain outcomes with graphs, charts, and data as they explore concepts like scarcity and markets; costs, benefits, and marginal analysis; production choices and behavior; and market inefficiency and public policy. Students must take the nationally standardized AP exam in May.
SOCIAL STUDIES ELECTIVES
SEMANTICS, LOGIC & SPEECH HONORS
Credits: 0.5 /Semester
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): See Honors Eligibility. A or B in English Honors
Note: Elective, Fine Art Credit
FLDOE: 1004300
CGHS: 0195
Semantics, Logic, and Public Speaking offers students the opportunity to learn the mechanics of making a speech in public as well as the psychological and physiological implications involved in speaking in a safe academic environment. The objectives of this class are to give students the tools and skills they need to become effective communicators using speeches of graduated difficulty along with learning the dynamics of active listening and evaluating public speeches and debates. This class also will offer students the tools and skills they need to be able to analyze the veracity of arguments and to develop and to make their own written arguments. Students also will assist each other in developing and delivering their arguments in speeches and debates for various contexts. (Seniors will receive priority.) (This course fulfills the CGHS Fine Art requirement.) Students may be required to participate in one speech and debate tournament per semester.
SPEECH AND DEBATE II HONORS
Credits: 0.5 /Semester
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): See Honors Eligibility. Semantics and Logic.
Note: Elective, Fine Art Credit
FLDOE: 1007350
CGHS: 0197
The purpose of this course is to continue developing students’ awareness, understanding, and application of language arts as they apply to oral communication concepts and formats. Students will practice the following events: Original Oratory, Declamation, Informative Speaking, Impromptu Speaking, Extemporaneous Speaking, Congressional Debate, and Public Forum Debate. Students may be required to participate in one speech and debate tournament per semester. *Contributes to the CGHS Fine Arts requirement.
AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY
Credits: 0.5 /Semester
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): None
Note: Elective
FLDOE: 2100335
CGHS: 0369
The African American History elective is designed to provide students with a comprehensive overview of the African American experience, beginning with Africa and continuing through modern times. The semester course will address the introduction of Africans to the Americas, enslavement, emancipation, and the social and political challenges and triumphs that followed. In addition, the course will highlight African Americans’ social, cultural, and political contributions
SOCIAL STUDIES & BUSINESS
to American society. Utilizing the Florida State Standards for Social Studies as a framework for instruction, the focal point of the class will be to develop a student’s understanding and appreciation of African American history. In addition to the history standard, coursework will also focus on geography, economics, and political science, increasing students’ understanding of the world’s peoples and nations.
AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY HONORS
Credits: 0.5 /Semester
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): See Honors Eligibility for Social Studies and English courses.
Note: Elective, See Honors and Advanced Level Course Note on page 42
FLDOE: 2100336
CGHS: 0376
The African American History elective is designed to provide students with a comprehensive overview of the African American experience, beginning with Africa and continuing through modern times. The semester course will address the introduction of Africans to the Americas, enslavement, emancipation, and the social and political challenges and triumphs that followed. In addition, the course will highlight African Americans’ social, cultural, and political contributions to American society. Utilizing the Florida State Standards for Social Studies as a framework for instruction, the focal point of the class will be to develop a student’s understanding and appreciation of African American history. In addition to the history standard, coursework will also focus on geography, economics, and political science, increasing students’ understanding of the world’s peoples and nations.
HOLOCAUST EDUCATION HONORS
Credits: 0.5 /Semester
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): See Honors Eligibility.
Note: Elective, See Honors and Advanced Level Course Note on page 42
FLDOE: 2109440
CGHS: 0383
The Holocaust Education elective’s primary content emphasis for this course pertains to the examination of the events of the Holocaust (1933-1945), the systemic, planned annihilation of European Jews and other groups by Nazi Germany. Content will include, but is not limited to, the examination of twentieth-century programs and twentieth-century and twenty-first-century genocides, an investigation of human behavior during this period, and an understanding of the ramifications of prejudice, racism, and stereotyping.
PSYCHOLOGY
Credits: 0.5 /Semester
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): None
Note: Elective
FLDOE: 2107300
CGHS: 0360
Through the study of psychology, students acquire an understanding of and an appreciation for human behavior, behavior interaction and the progressive development of individuals. The content examined in this first introductory course includes major theories and orientations of psychology, psychological methodology, memory and cognition, human growth and development, personality, abnormal behavior, psychological therapies, stress/coping strategies, and mental health.
PSYCHOLOGY HONORS
Credits: 0.5 /Semester
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): See Honors Eligibility. Score of 450 on the PSAT Reading and Writing section.
Note: Elective, See Honors and Advanced Level Course Note on page 42
FLDOE: 2107310
CGHS: 0361
Through the study of psychology, students acquire an understanding of and an appreciation for human behavior, behavior interaction and the progressive development of individuals. The content examined in this first introductory course includes major theories and orientations of psychology, psychological methodology, memory and cognition,
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SOCIAL STUDIES & BUSINESS
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human growth and development, personality, abnormal behavior, psychological therapies, stress/coping strategies, and mental health.
AP PSYCHOLOGY
FLDOE: 2107350
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0362-0363
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): See Advanced Placement Eligibility. A score of 550 on the PSAT Reading and Writing section.
Note: Elective, See Honors and Advanced Level Course Note on page 42. PreAct Reading and Writing 43.
AP Psychology introduces students to the systematic and scientific study of human behavior and mental processes. While considering the studies that have shaped the field, students explore and apply psychological theories, key concepts, and phenomena associated with major units of study, including biological bases of behavior, cognition, development, learning, social psychology, personality, and mental and physical health. Throughout the course, students apply psychological concepts and employ psychological research methods and data interpretation to evaluate claims, consider evidence, and effectively communicate ideas.
INTRODUCTION TO LAW STUDIES
FLDOE: 2106350
Credits: 0.5 /Semester CGHS: 0976
Grade Level: 10, 11
Prerequisite(s): None.
This course introduces students to the foundations of the American legal system, including constitutional principles, civil and criminal law, the court system, and individual rights and responsibilities. Students develop critical thinking and analytical skills through the study of real-world cases, legal ethics, and the role of law in promoting justice and order in society.
DUAL ENROLLMENT INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
FLDOE: POS 325
Credits: 0.5 /Semester (3 university credits) CGHS: 0390
Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite(s): See Dual Enrollment Eligibility. AP U.S. Government
Note: Elective, See Honors and Advanced Level Course Note on page 42. Semester 2 Course
This is an introductory course on international politics and the relations between actors in the global political system. Analysis of relations among subnational, national, and supranational factors in the international system; foreign policy formation; quest for peace and security in a shrinking world. The purpose of this course is to systematically study international interactions between actors with different interests and ideas.
AP EUROPEAN HISTORY
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
FLDOE: 2109380
CGHS: 0320-0321
Prerequisite(s): See Advanced Placement Eligibility. A score of 550 on the PSAT Reading and Writing Section. Note: Elective, See Honors and Advanced Level Course Note on page 42. PreAct Reading and Writing 43.
AP European History is an introductory college-level history course. Students cultivate their understanding of European history by analyzing historical sources and making connections with arguments as they explore concepts like the interaction of Europe and the world, economic and commercial developments, cultural and intellectual developments, states and other institutions of power, social organization, and development, national and European identity, and technological and scientific innovation. The timeline is from 1450 C.E. to the present. Students must take the nationally standardized AP exam in May.
SOCIAL STUDIES & BUSINESS
AP HUMAN GEOGRAPHY
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
FLDOE: 2103400
CGHS: 0371-0372
Prerequisite(s): See Advanced Placement Eligibility. A score of 550 on the PSAT Reading and Writing section. World History Honors or AP World History. PreAct Reading and Writing 43.
Note: Elective, See Honors and Advanced Level Course Note on page 42
This course introduces students to the systematic study of the patterns and processes that have shaped human understanding, use, and alteration of Earth’s surface. Students employ spatial concepts and landscape analysis to examine the socio- economic organization and its environmental consequences. They also learn about the methods and tools geographers use in their research and applications. The curriculum reflects the goals of the National Geography Standards. Students must take the nationally standardized AP exam in May.
BUSINESS ELECTIVES
PERSONAL FINANCE AND MONEY MANAGEMENT
Credits: 0.5 /Semester
Grade Level: 9, 10
Prerequisite(s): None.
Note: Elective, Online Course Credit
FLDOE: 2102371
CGHS: 0349
In Personal Finance and Money Management, instructional time will emphasize seven areas: (1) exploring how personal financial decisions are made; (2) understanding how wages and salaries are earned; (3) developing personal or family budgets; (4) analyzing how interest can be earned by saving now; (5) determining advantages and disadvantages of credit accounts; (6) developing understanding of planning for the future through investment accounts and retirement plans (7) the financial benefits exist through the purchase of insurance. **This course is provided as a hybrid, blended learning class that meets the online graduation course requirement.
PERSONAL FINANCE AND MONEY MANAGEMENT HONORS
Credits: 0.5 /Semester
Grade Level: 9, 10
Prerequisite(s): See Honors Eligibility for World History.
Note: Elective, Online Course Credit, See Honors and Advanced Level Course Note on page 42
FLDOE:2102373
CGHS: 0350
In Personal Finance and Money Management, instructional time will emphasize seven areas: (1) exploring how personal financial decisions are made; (2) understanding how wages and salaries are earned; (3) developing personal or family budgets; (4) analyzing how interest can be earned by saving now; (5) determining advantages and disadvantages of credit accounts; (6) developing understanding of planning for the future through investment accounts and retirement plans (7) the financial benefits exist through the purchase of insurance. **This course is provided as a hybrid, blended learning class that meets the online graduation course requirement.
AP BUSINESS WITH PERSONAL FINANCE
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 10, 11
Prerequisite(s): See AP Eligibility for World History Honors.
FLDOE:
CGHS: 0355-0356
Note: New AP course. Currently does not meet Personal Finance credit. PF credit will begin for class of 2030. The purpose of this course is to introduce students to foundational business principles while building strong personal financial literacy skills. Students will explore topics including entrepreneurship, management, marketing, financial accounting, and the role of business in society. Integrated throughout the course is a comprehensive study of personal finance, which includes budgeting, saving, credit management, investing, risk protection, and long term financial planning. Students will apply these concepts through case studies, project based learning, and simulations that mirror
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SOCIAL STUDIES & BUSINESS
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real world decision making. This course prepares students for the AP assessment in Business and strengthens their readiness for college level coursework and future career pathways in business related fields.
BUSINESS AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP PRINCIPLES HONORS
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): None
Note: Elective
FLDOE: 8215120
CGHS: 0945-0952
This honors-level course introduces students to foundational business concepts and entrepreneurial thinking. Students explore economics, marketing, finance, management, and innovation while developing leadership, collaboration, and problem-solving skills. Emphasis is placed on ethical business practices and real-world application through projects and case studies.
DUAL ENROLLMENT INTRODUCTION TO BUSINESS
Credits: 0.5 /Semester (3 university credits)
Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): See Dual Enrollment Eligibility. A passing score on a college readiness exam.
Note: Business Pathway Elective, See Honors and Advanced Level Course Note on page 42
FLDOE: GEB 1011
CGHS: 0970
This course is a college-level course focusing on general business management, production, human resources, leadership, decision-making, financial interpretation, and financial literacy. Students will participate in a team-based business simulation using all areas of business from supply chain management to accounting. (Does not fulfill Social Studies requirements.)
DUAL ENROLLMENT ORGANIZATIONAL BEHAVIOR AND MANAGEMENT
Credits: 0.5 /Semester (3 university credits)
Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): See Dual Enrollment Eligibility. DE Introduction to Business
Note: Business Pathway Elective, See Honors and Advanced Level Course Note on page 42
FLDOE: MGT 305
CGHS: 0969
This course focuses on the management functions of planning, organizing, leading, and controlling. Examination is made of the individual’s role within the organization, of interpersonal influence and group behavior, and of organizational processes. (Does not fulfill Social Studies requirements.)
THEOLOGY
Graduation Requirement: Four (4) credits of Theology and 100 total hours of Christian Service Hours.
The Theology Department at Cardinal Gibbons High School fosters knowledge and the life of faith by contributing to the mission of the Church and of Jesus. The following descriptions and designations for Theology courses have been assigned.
HIGH SCHOOL THEOLOGY REQUIREMENTS
Jewish History I & II (9th Grade)
Sacraments/Freedom and Virtue (11th Grade)
Christology/Ecclesiology (10th Grade)
Comparative Religions/ Catholic Social Teaching (12th Grade)
Jewish History: Hebrew and Christian Scripture (Regular or Honors) X
Philosophy & Anthropology: Christology and Ecclesiology X (Regular, Honors, DE) Music & Ministry (Regular, Honors)
Global Studies: Sacraments and Freedom & Virtue (Regular, Honors, DE) X
Comparative Religions & Catholic Social Teaching (Regular, Honors, DE) X Theology Electives
CG Leadership Formation Program
Theology of Leadership Honors X
MINISTRY AND MUSIC PROGRAM
The Ministry and Music Program offers students passionate about music a chance to integrate music studies with their Theology coursework. This two-year program prepares students to enroll in honors music classes during their junior and senior years.
Throughout the program, students will complete courses in Jewish History and Christology/Ecclesiology. Additional emphasis will be placed on religious music (vocal or instrumental). All students must participate in all music performances and dress rehearsals, as outlined in the class syllabus. A fee will be assessed to cover a portion of the costs for performance materials. Upon finishing the program, students will be eligible to enroll in an honors level music course to meet the fine arts credit.
THEOLOGY
JEWISH HISTORY: HEBREW AND CHRISTIAN SCRIPTURE
FLDOE: 2109410
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0025-0026
Grade Level: 9
Prerequisite(s): None
Note: Core
This course gives students a general knowledge and appreciation of the Sacred Scriptures, preparing them to encounter Jesus, God’s revelation to the world. Students will become familiar with the process of inspiration and authorship of the Bible and its major sections in the Old Testament.
JEWISH HISTORY: HEBREW AND CHRISTIAN SCRIPTURE HONORS
FLDOE: 2109410
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0027-0028
Grade Level: 9
Prerequisite(s): See Honors Eligibility. A minimum score of 9.1 on the HSPT Reading and HSPT essay performance. Note: Core. Music and Ministry Course Code 0031-0032
This course gives students a general knowledge and appreciation of the Sacred Scriptures, preparing them to encounter Jesus, God’s revelation to the world. Students will become familiar with the process of inspiration and authorship of the Bible and its major sections, especially, in the Old Testament.
Christology introduces students to the mystery of Jesus Christ, the living Word of God, and the second person of the Blessed Trinity. Students will understand that Jesus Christ is the Source of our Salvation to us from God. In learning about who He is, students will also learn who He calls them to be. Ecclesiology will provide students with the opportunity to discover and respond to Christ’s invitation to encounter Him through the Church. Students will learn more about how the Church was founded by Christ through the Apostles, is sustained by the Holy Spirit and is His Body which has both divine and human elements. As revealed in Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition student will learn about the expression of the identity and mission of the Church as one, holy, Catholic, and apostolic; alive and active today.
Christology introduces students to the mystery of Jesus Christ, the living Word of God, and the second person of the Blessed Trinity. Students will understand that Jesus Christ is the Source of our Salvation. In learning about who He is, students will also learn who He calls them to be. Ecclesiology will provide students with the opportunity to discover and respond to Christ’s invitation to encounter Him through the Church. Students will learn more about how the Church was founded by Christ through the Apostles, is sustained by the Holy Spirit and is His Body which has both divine and human elements. As revealed in Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition student will learn about the expression of the identity and mission of the Church as one, holy, Catholic, and apostolic; alive and active today.
THEOLOGY
DUAL ENROLLMENT CHRISTOLOGY & ECCLESIOLOGY
Credits: 1.0 /Year (6 university credits)
Grade Level: 10
Prerequisite(s): See Honors Eligibility. Jewish History I & II Honors
FLDOE: THE307/THE338
CGHS: 0001-0002
An investigation into the Christian understanding of the person and work of Jesus Christ. The origins of Christology in the New Testament and the development of christological doctrine in the history of the Church will be examined as a basis for a contemporary understanding of Jesus and of the challenge of Jesus and his message for the Christian today.
An Exploration of the meaning of Church as part of the Christian mystery of salvation. Biblical, Historical and Theological foundations will be surveyed to integrate an understanding of the life, structure, and mission of the Church in today’s world. Special attention will be given to developments in Roman Catholicism in light of the Second Vatican Council as it informs the present ecumenical context of Catholic, Orthodox and Protestant Church life.
GLOBAL STUDIES: SACRAMENTS AND FREEDOM & VIRTUE
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 11
Prerequisite(s): None
Note: Core
FLDOE: 2104320
CGHS: 0035-0036
This course seeks to begin to answer the question, “What can prayer do?” The course will explore how prayer and the sacraments contribute to a truly joyous spiritual life. The course will cultivate the student’s ability to hear God’s voice and discern life’s vocation. I
n this course students are expected to think through arguments concerning morality. They will learn the basics of logical reasoning and the fundamental principles of ethical thought. During the course, students will grapple intelligently with ethical questions of import today.
GLOBAL STUDIES: SACRAMENTS AND FREEDOM & VIRTUE HONORS
FLDOE: 2104320
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0037-0038
Grade Level: 11
Prerequisite(s): See Honors Eligibility, A score of 450 on the Reading and Writing section of the PSAT/SAT, and Teacher Recommendation. PreAct Reading and Writing 31. Note: Core
This course seeks to begin to answer the question, “What can prayer do?” The course will explore how prayer and the sacraments contribute to a truly joyous spiritual life. The course will cultivate the student’s ability to hear God’s voice and discern life’s vocation.
In this course students are expected to think through arguments concerning morality. They will learn the basics of logical reasoning and the fundamental principles of ethical thought. During the course, students will grapple intelligently with ethical questions of import today.
DUAL ENROLLMENT SACRAMENTS AND FREEDOM & VIRTUE
Credits: 1.0 /Year (6 university credits)
Grade Level: 11
FLDOE: REL 2770/REL 3752
CGHS: 0042-0043
Prerequisite(s): See Dual Enrollment Eligibility. A passing score on a college readiness exam. Note: Core
Sacraments is an examination of the Christian sacraments from the perspective of religious experience and symbol, Christ as the primordial sacrament, the Church as the fundamental sacrament, and the historical-theological development of each sacrament. Although primary focus will be on the Roman Catholic tradition, attention will also
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THEOLOGY
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be given to Orthodox and Protestant understanding and practice. Freedom & Virtue is an examination of the meaning of human freedom, the nature and search for virtue as a means and goal of human behavior and as a consequence of our actions. Accountability as part of free human action will be considered in the context of decisions of conscience.
COMPARATIVE RELIGIONS & CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING
FLDOE: 2104600
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0045-0046
Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite(s): None
Note: Core
In this course, students will acquire an understanding of the way people in different cultures satisfy their spiritual needs. Students contrast and compare the place of religion in various cultures, the importance that has been attached to religion in people’s lives, and the relationship between these religions and that of the Roman Catholic Church. Our Catholic faith call us for us to be an ecumenical people by reaching out to all peoples of faith with a welcoming spirit “to recognize, preserve and promote the good things, spiritual and moral, as well as the social cultural values found among them” Nostra Aetate.
This course is designed to introduce the student to the Catholic Church’s social justice teachings. Students will learn how Christ’s concern for others, especially the poor and needy, is present today. This course invites students to be challenged and inspired by the Catholic Church’s social teachings in order to understand the great justice concerns of our times and to respond to them by courageously living and creatively advancing the message of the Gospel in society.
COMPARATIVE RELIGIONS & CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING HONORS
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 12
FLDOE: 2104600
CGHS: 0057-0058
Prerequisite(s): See Honors Eligibility, A score of 460 on the Reading and Writing section of the PSAT/SAT, and Teacher Recommendation. PreAct Reading and Writing 32. Note: Core
In this honors course, students will acquire an understanding of the way people in different cultures satisfy their spiritual needs at an advanced level. Students contrast and compare the place of religion in various cultures, the importance that has been attached to religion in people’s lives, and the relationship between these religions and that of the Roman Catholic Church. Our Catholic faith call us for us to be an ecumenical people by reaching out to all peoples of faith with a welcoming spirit “to recognize, preserve and promote the good things, spiritual and moral, as well as the social cultural values found among them” Nostra Aetate.
This course is designed to introduce the student to the Catholic Church’s social justice teachings. Students will learn how Christ’s concern for others, especially the poor and needy, is present today. This course invites students to be challenged and inspired by the Catholic Church’s social teachings in order to understand the great justice concerns of our times and to respond to them by courageously living and creatively advancing the message of the Gospel in society.
DUAL ENROLLMENT COMPARATIVE RELIGIONS
& CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING
Credits: 1.0 /Year (6 university credits)
Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite(s): See Dual Enrollment Eligibility. Note: Core
FLDOE: REL 2300/SYG2000
CGHS: 0048-0049
In this course, students will acquire an understanding of the way people in different cultures satisfy their spiritual needs through the traditions, practices, and texts of different religious traditions. Students contrast and compare the place of religion in various cultures, the importance that has been attached to religion in people’s lives, and the relationship
THEOLOGY
between these religions and that of the Roman Catholic Church. Emphasis is placed on the three Abrahamic religions: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Eastern traditions such as Buddhism and Hinduism are introduced. Our Catholic faith call us for us to be an ecumenical people by reaching out to all peoples of faith with a welcoming spirit “to recognize, preserve and promote the good things, spiritual and moral, as well as the social cultural values found among them” Nostra Aetate.
This course is designed to introduce the student to the Catholic Church’s social justice teachings. Students will learn how Christ’s concern for others, especially the poor and needy, is present today. This course invites students to be challenged and inspired by the Catholic Church’s social teachings in order to understand the great justice concerns of our times and to respond to them by courageously living and creatively advancing the message of the Gospel in society.
THEOLOGY ELECTIVES
PEER MINISTRY HONORS
Credits: 0.5 /Semester
Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Application and Interview with the Campus Ministry Team.
FLDOE: 2105355
CGHS: 0074
The primary goal of the peer ministry course is to empower students to live out their faith through leadership and service reflecting on the school’s mission and values. To accomplish this goal this course will train and involve students in activities that integrate faith into daily life, including planning for retreat events and participating in outreach efforts. This course will also cultivate a sense of responsibility, as well as will inspire students to support the spiritual well-being of the peers and the broader school community, and ensure that ministry becomes a lived experience that impacts the entire school community.
PHILOSOPHY II HONORS
Credits: 0.5 /Semester
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
FLDOE: 2120915
CGHS: 0070
Prerequisite(s): See Honors Eligibility and A score of 440 on the Reading and Writing section of the PSAT/SAT. PreAct Reading and Writing 33.
Note: Elective
This course provides students with an introduction to metaphysics, epistemology, logic, politics (power), and ethics. The ethics portion of the course covers various social issues, such as medical ethics, business ethics, moral conscience, legal issues, and sexuality, as filtered through the prism of Catholic social teaching.
DUAL ENROLLMENT THEOLOGY THROUGH FILM
Credits: 0.5 /Semester (3 university credits)
Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): See Dual Enrollment Eligibility. A passing score on a college readiness exam.
Note: Elective
FLDOE: REL 3111
CGHS: 0055
This course explores fundamental moral sources and methods within the major religious traditions of the world. The course will investigate shared areas of ethical concern that span the globe (e.g., stealing, poverty, human rights, church-state relations, economic justice, environmental issues, war, and the death penalty). The course will also explore the extent to which these religions might find common ground in specific areas of moral concern, such as human rights, violence, and respect for life. (Students who previously took Ethics are not eligible for this course.)
THEOLOGY
THEOLOGY OF LEADERSHIP TECHNIQUES HONORS FLDOE: 2400310
Credits: 0.5 /Semester
Grade Level: 9
CGHS: 0061
Prerequisite(s): Submit Application. See Honors Elegibility. A minimum of 9.1 on the HSPT reading and HSPT essay performance
Note: Elective
The first course of the CG Leadership Program focus on Character and Academics. Studenst will identify and develop their personal stregths while learning to apply them as leaders within the school community and beyond. Empasizing the Cardinal Virtue of Prudence through writtten reflections, collaborative projects , group discussions, and servicebase assignments, students will engage in meaningful experiences that connect leadership theory to practice. Each semester concludes with a capstone project that demosnstrates growth, faith, and service. Rooted in the Catholic identity of Cardinal Gibbons High School, the CGLeadership Program welcomes all studenst who are eager to make a positive impact through character, scholarship, and service.
WORLD LANGUAGES
Graduation Requirement: Two (2) consecutive credits of the same language
Recommendation for Strength in College Application: Three (3) or more consecutive credits of the same language
The World Languages Department focuses on the importance of enhancing the student’s ability through a second language competence. Our comprehensive course offerings in Spanish, French, and Latin prepare students with a strong foundation of language study.
The following descriptions and designations for World Language courses have been assigned.
SPANISH I & II
In these courses, instruction occurs in both English and Spanish, with increasing emphasis on Spanish language immersion as students progress. By the end of each course, students develop foundational skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in Spanish, with each quarter building greater fluency and confidence in authentic communication.
SPANISH III & IV
While directions and instructions may be provided in English, all core instruction is conducted in Spanish. These courses focus on strengthening listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills, expanding vocabulary, and refining grammar. Students engage with more complex texts and authentic communication experiences to develop advanced fluency and cultural understanding.
WORLD LANGUAGES REQUIREMENTS
Heritage vs. Native Speakers: Native speakers acquire Spanish from birth in a predominantly Spanish-speaking environment, typically demonstrating full proficiency across speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Heritage speakers are exposed to Spanish at home or in the community but are educated primarily in English; they often have strong oral skills and cultural knowledge, while literacy and formal language use may be less developed. Recognizing these differences guides instruction that honors students’ linguistic and cultural backgrounds while promoting advanced proficiency in all modes.
SPANISH I
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 9, 10
Prerequisite(s): Course Advancement Exam.
Note: Core
FLDOE: 0708340
0574-0575
This course is for non-native speakers, and provides provides an introduction to the language and culture of the Spanish-speaking world. It concentrates on the four basic language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The emphasis is on high-frequency words and expressions of contemporary spoken Spanish, supported by appropriate
WORLD LANGUAGES
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grammar. Heritage Spanish speakers are welcome to enroll; the course supports all students in developing advanced language skills.
SPANISH FOR SPANISH SPEAKERS I (SSSI)
FLDOE: 0709300
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0556-0557
Grade Level: 9, 10
Prerequisite(s): Native language is Spanish; Interview. Course Advancement Exam. Note: Core, Spanish is Spoken
This course enables students whose native language is Spanish to develop, maintain, and enhance proficiency in their native language by reinforcing and acquiring skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing, including the fundamentals of Spanish grammar. Language Arts standards are also included in this course to enable students to become literate in the Spanish language and gain a better understanding of the nature of their own language as well as other languages to be acquired. The course content will reflect the cultural values of the Spanish language and societies.
SPANISH II STANDARD
FLDOE: 0708350
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0596-0597
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Course Advancement Exam or successful completion of Spanish I. Note: Core. Students in Spanish II Standard will not continue with Spanish language.
This course builds on the foundation of Spanish I using more complex structures of basic Spanish and expands on the cultural themes already set forth. It concentrates on the four basic language skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing. The emphasis is on high frequency words and impressions of contemporary spoken Spanish, supported by appropriate grammar.
SPANISH II
FLDOE: 0708350
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0576-0577
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Course Advancement Exam or successful completion of Spanish I. Note: Core
This course is for non-native speakers, and builds on the foundation of Spanish I using more complex structures of basic Spanish and expands on the cultural themes already set forth. It concentrates on the four basic language skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing. The emphasis is on high frequency words and impressions of contemporary spoken Spanish, supported by appropriate grammar. Heritage Spanish speakers are welcome to enroll; the course supports all students in developing advanced language skills.
SPANISH FOR SPANISH SPEAKERS II (SSSII)
FLDOE: 0709310
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0558-0559
Grade Level: 9, 10
Prerequisite(s): Placement test or successful completion of Spanish for Spanish Speakers I. Native language is Spanish Note: Core, Spanish is Spoken
This course enables students whose native language is Spanish to develop, maintain, and enhance proficiency in their native language by reinforcing and expanding skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing, as well as Spanish grammar skills acquired in Spanish for Spanish Speakers I. Students are exposed to a variety of Spanish literary genres and authors. Language Arts standards are also included in this course to enable students to become literate in Spanish and gain a better understanding of the nature of their own language as well as other languages to be acquired. The course content will continue reflecting the cultural values of the Spanish language and societies.
SPANISH III HONORS
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
WORLD LANGUAGES
FLDOE: 0708360
CGHS: 0578-0579
Prerequisite(s): See Honors Eligibility. Spanish II. Teacher Recommendation. Course Advancement Exam for incoming freshman.
Note: Core, Elective, Spanish is Spoken
This course provides mastery and expansion of skills acquired by the students in Spanish II. Specific cultural content that will enhance the vocabulary and conversational skills through discussions of selected readings, videos and a variety of activities. The course will enable students to open their minds and elevate their capabilities. The contents of the program will also be utilized, when permitted, to help students deepen spiritually under the precepts of our religion.
DUAL ENROLLMENT BEGINNING SPANISH II AND INTERMEDIATE SPANISH I (SPANISH III)
Credits: 1.0 /Year (3 University Credits Per Semester)
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): See Dual Enrollment Eligibility. A placement exam is required. Spanish II
Note: Core, Elective. Spanish is spoken.
FLDOE: SPN 1102/2220
CGHS: 0580-0581
This course provides mastery and expansion of skills acquired by the students in Spanish II. Specific content includes, but is not limited to expansions of vocabulary and conversational skills through discussions of selected readings. Contemporary vocabulary stresses activities that are important to the everyday life of the target language-speaking people. Intensive oral and written review of the pronunciation and the structures of the Spanish language; recognition and active handling of aural comprehension and oral production; cultural readings and academic writing.
SPANISH IV HONORS
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): See Honors Eligibility. Spanish III Honors. Teacher Recommendation. Note: Core, Elective. Spanish is spoken.
FLDOE: 0708370
CGHS: 0584-0585
This course expands the skills acquired by the students in Spanish III Honors. Specific content includes, but is not limited to more advanced language structures and idiomatic expressions, with emphasis on conversational skills. There is additional growth in vocabulary for practical purposes, including writing. Students will obtain an intermediate level of language through activities where critical thinking plays a main role in their learning. The contents of the program will also be utilized, when permitted, to help students deepen spiritually under the precepts of our religion.
DUAL ENROLLMENT INTERMEDIATE SPANISH II
AND ADVANCED SPANISH (SPANISH IV)
Credits: 1.0 Credits/Year (3 University Credits Per Semester)
Grade Level: 11, 12
FLDOE: SPN 2221/3400
CGHS: 0582-0583
Prerequisite(s): See Dual Enrollment Eligibility. A placement exam is required. Spanish III Honors/DE Note: Core, Elective. Spanish is spoken.
This course is an intensive review of grammar, syntax, structure, and orthography, with special attention given to the use of subjunctive, translation and paraphrasing of selected reading materials. The students will also read fiction and non-fiction texts in Spanish.
AP SPANISH LANGUAGE AND CULTURE
Credits: 1.0 Credits /Year
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
FLDOE: 0708400
CGHS: 0587-0588
Prerequisite(s): See Advanced Placement Eligibility. DE Spanish III, Spanish III Honors, or Spanish IV Honors. Teacher recommendation.
Note: Core, Elective. Spanish is spoken
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WORLD LANGUAGES
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The AP Spanish Language and Culture course enables willing and academically prepared students to pursue collegelevel studies with the opportunity to earn college credit while still in high school. Through this AP course students learn to think critically, construct solid arguments, and see different perspectives in the target language. The focus is on interpretative, interpersonal, and presentational communication. Students will master skills that will enable them to achieve a professional use of the language. The contents of the program will also be utilized, when permitted, to help students deepen spiritually under the precepts of our religion. Students will take the nationally standardized AP exam in May.
AP SPANISH LITERATURE AND CULTURE
FLDOE: 0708410
Credits: 1.0 Credits /Year CGHS: 0591-0592
Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): See Advanced Placement Eligibility. AP Spanish Language and Culture and an AP test score of 4 or 5. Teacher Recommendation.
Note: Core, Elective. Spanish is spoken.
AP Spanish Literature is equivalent to a college level introductory survey course of literature written in Spanish. Students continue to develop their interpretive, interpersonal, and presentational skills in Spanish language, as well as critical reading and analytical writing as they explore short stories, novels, plays, essays, and poetry from Spain, Latin America, and U.S. Hispanic authors, along with other non-required texts. The contents of the program will also be utilized, when permitted, to help students deepen spiritually under the precepts of our religion. Students will take the nationally standardized AP exam in May.
FRENCH I
FLDOE: 0701320
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0529-0530
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): None
Note: Core, Elective
This course is an introduction to basic French. Students will develop elementary communication skills in the areas of listening, writing, speaking, and reading. First-year vocabulary, grammar, and syntax will be stressed. The students will also be introduced to the customs and lifestyles of the Francophone world through authentic readings and videos.
FRENCH II
FLDOE: 0701330
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0531-0532
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Successful completion of French I. Course Advancement Exam for incoming freshman. Note: Core, Elective
This course builds on the foundation of French I, developing more complex structures and continuing the study of the cultural aspects of the French-speaking world.
FRENCH III HONORS
FLDOE: 0701340
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0533-0534
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): See Honors Eligibility. French II. Course Advancement Exam for incoming freshman. Note: Core, Elective
This course builds on the foundation presented in French II. More complex grammatical structures and vocabulary will be introduced into oral and written projects. Emphasis on French culture through conversation, literature, and composition will be stressed. Students will develop their writing and speaking skills and will obtain an intermediate level of language through activities where critical thinking plays a main role in their learning.
WORLD LANGUAGES
FRENCH IV HONORS
FLDOE: 0701350
Credits: 1.0 /Year GHS: 0535-0536
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): See Honors Eligibility. French III Honors
Note: Core, Elective
This course is designed for students who have mastered the advanced skills of French III. It includes continued development of oral language skills and advanced grammar incorporated in both oral and written projects. Survey of French literature will also be an integral part of this course. Students will think critically and develop their interpretive, interpersonal, and presentational communication skills to apply their learning outside of the classroom and in the community.
AP FRENCH LANGUAGE AND CULTURE
FLDOE: 0701380
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0539-0540
Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): See AP Eligibility. Teacher Recommendation.
Note: Core, Elective. French is spoken.
The purpose of this course is to develop advanced proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in French while exploring the products, practices, and perspectives of francophone cultures. Students engage in authentic communication through interpretive, interpersonal, and presentational tasks using a wide range of literary and nonliterary texts, audio sources, and real-world materials. The course emphasizes cultural comparisons, vocabulary expansion, complex language structures, and the ability to express and defend ideas in French. Students are expected to complete extensive practice in preparation for the AP French Language and Culture Exam.
LATIN I
FLDOE: 0706300
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0503-0504
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): None
Note: Core, Elective
This course lays the foundation for understanding the structure of the “mother” of modern Western languages while learning about Roman History and Civilization. It aims to achieve a reading ability of classical authors, better mastery of English, and training of the mind to logical thinking, and deductive reasoning.
LATIN II
FLDOE: 0706310
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0505-0506
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Successful completion of Latin I.
Note: Core, Elective
This course strengthens skills acquired in Latin I. It continues to develop the ability to read and comprehend Latin. Students will work on Latin grammar and learn about Roman History and Civilization. Specific emphasis is placed on the influence of Latin in the English language and the study of the foundation of the language of the church.
LATIN III HONORS
FLDOE: 0706320
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0507-0508
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): See Honors Eligibility. Latin II
Note: Core, Elective
This course is an advanced course designed to further develop the students’ Latin language proficiency and cultural and historical knowledge of Roman civilization through advanced readings and in-depth grammar study. Students will (con’t on next page)
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WORLD LANGUAGES
develop their knowledge of Latin grammar and enhance their comprehension/translation skills while studying Roman history and civilization and the foundations of the language of the church. The students’ vocabulary will be expanded in both Latin and English.
LATIN IV HONORS
FLDOE: 0706330
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0509-0510
Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): See Honors Eligibility. Latin III Honors
Note: Core, Elective
This course expands the skills acquired by students in Latin III Honors. The course is designed to expand vocabulary and translation skills through comprehension of selected readings. Vocabulary and grammar stress activities which are important works by authors such as Caesar, Cicero, Plautus, Ovid, Catullus, Horace, Pliny, and more. Latin students will focus more on reading, interpreting written passages, critical thinking, and deductive reasoning rather than using oral modes of communication.
AP LATIN
FLDOE: 0706375
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0512-0513
Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): See AP Eligibility. Must pass proficiency test.
Note: Elective
The purpose of this course is to develop advanced skills in reading, translating, analyzing, and interpreting Latin literature. Students study selections from Vergil’s Aeneid and Caesar’s Commentarii de Bello Gallico while examining the historical, cultural, political, and literary contexts of each work. Emphasis is placed on grammar, syntax, literary devices, sight reading, and the ability to analyze themes, character development, and authorial purpose. Students engage in analytical writing, collaborative translation, and interpretive discussions as they prepare for the AP Latin Exam.
FINE ARTS - VISUAL
FINE ARTS - VISUAL REQUIREMENTS
Graduation Requirement: One (1) credit in Fine Arts must be completed. (All courses below meet the Fine Art requirement.)
2D ART / 3D ART
FLDOE: 0101300
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0616-0633
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): None
Note: Elective, Note
In this course, students will experiment with the media and techniques used to create a variety of two-dimensional (2-D) artworks through the development of skills in drawing, painting, printmaking, collage, and/or design. Students will practice, sketch, and manipulate the structural elements of art to improve mark making and/or organizational principles of design in a composition from observation, research, and/or imagination. Through the critique process, students evaluate and respond to their own work and that of their peers. This course incorporates hands-on activities and consumption of art materials. Students will explore house, space, mass, balance, and form, combined to create aesthetic forms for utilitarian products and structures. Instruction may include content in green or industrial design, sculpture, ceramics, or building arts. Media may include clay, wood, plaster, and papier-mâché, with consideration of the work ability, durability, cost, and toxicity of the media used. Student artists consider the relationship of scale through the use of positive and negative space or voids, volume, visual, weight, and gravity to create low/high relief or freestanding structures for personal intentions or public places. They explore sharp and diminishing detail, size, position, overlapping, visual pattern, texture, implied line, space, and plasticity, reflecting, craftsmanship, and quality in the surface structural qualities of the completed art forms. Students in this course focus on the use of safety procedures for process, media, and techniques. They will use an art criticism process to evaluate, explain, and measure artistic growth in personal or group works. This course incorporates hands-on activities and consumption of art materials.
Yearbook
Visual
FINE ARTS - VISUAL
PAINTING I & II
FLDOE: 0104370
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0663-0664
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): 2D Art / 3D Art
Note: Elective, Fine Art
Students experiment with the media and techniques used to create a variety of two-dimensional (2-D) artworks through the development of skills in painting. Students practice, and manipulate the structural elements of art to improve art making and/or the organizational principles of design in a composition from observation, research, and/ or imagination. Through the critique process, students evaluate and respond to their own work and that of their peers. This course incorporates hands-on activities and consumption of art materials. Students develop and refine technical skills and create 2-D compositions in painting. Student artists manipulate, and refine the structural elements of art to improve mark-making and/or the organizational principles of design in a composition from observation, research, and/ or imagination. Through the critique process, students evaluate and respond to their own work and that of their peers.
PAINTING III HONORS
FLDOE: 0104390
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0665-0666
Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): See Honors Eligibility. Painting I and II
Note: Elective, Fine Art
Students demonstrate proficiency in the conceptual development of content in painting to create self-directed or collaborative 2-D artwork suitable for inclusion in a portfolio. Students produce works that show evidence of developing craftsmanship and quality in the composition. Through the critique process, students evaluate and respond to their own work and that of their peers. Through a focused investigation of traditional techniques, historical and cultural models, and individual expressive goals, students begin to develop a personal art style.
DRAWING I & II
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): 2D Art / 3D Art
Note: Elective, Fine Art
FLDOE: 0104340
CGHS: 0651-0652
Students experiment with the media and techniques used to create a variety of two-dimensional (2-D) artworks through the development of skills in drawing. Students practice, sketch, and manipulate the structural elements of art to improve mark making and/or the organizational principles of design in a composition from observation, research, and/or imagination. Through the critique process, students evaluate and respond to their own work and that of their peers. Students develop and refine technical skills and create 2-D compositions with a variety of media in drawing. Student artists sketch, manipulate, and refine the structural elements of art to improve mark-making and/or the organizational principles of design in a composition from observation, research, and/or imagination. Through the critique process, students evaluate and respond to their own work and that of their peers.
DRAWING III HONORS
FLDOE: 0104360
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0653-0654
Grade: 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): See Honors Eligibility. Drawing I and II
Note: Elective, Fine Art
Students demonstrate proficiency in the conceptual development of content in drawing to create self-directed or collaborative 2-D artwork suitable for inclusion in a portfolio. Students produce works that show evidence of developing craftsmanship and quality in the composition. Through the critique process, students evaluate and respond to their own work and that of their peers. Through a focused investigation of traditional techniques, historical and cultural models, and individual expressive goals, students begin to develop a personal art style.
FINE ARTS - VISUAL
AP DRAWING
Credits: 1.0/Year
Grade Level: 12
FLDOE: 0104300
CGHS: 0657-0658
Prerequisite(s): See Advanced Placement Eligibility. Painting Honors, Drawing Honors, Portfolio Development Honors
Note: Elective, Fine Art. Students must submit a digital portfolio AP College Board.
This college-level course offers students the ability to create art as a continuous process in which the student is the planner, creator, and informed decision-maker. Rather than taking an AP “exam” at the end of the course, students must instead prepare a portfolio of work including two sections, “Sustained Investigation” and “Selected Works.” With the “Sustained Investigation” and “Selected Works” sections, the focus is placed on the artist and the processes, techniques, and experimentation with the materials they use to create. The AP Drawing portfolio can incorporate many different drawing materials, including ink, charcoal, graphite, and more.
PORTFOLIO DEVELOPMENT: 2D DESIGN HONORS
FLDOE: 0109320
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0628-0629
Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): See Honors Eligibility. Painting II, Drawing II or 2D Art Honors
Note: Elective, Fine Art
Students work in a self-directed environment to develop a portfolio showing a body of their own work that visually explores a particular artistic concern, articulated and supported by a written artist’s statement. Artists may work in, but are not limited to, content in drawing, painting, printmaking, mixed media, traditional photography, digital photography, and/or new media and emerging technologies that demonstrate understanding of design principles as applied to a 2-dimensional surface. In keeping with the rigor expected in an accelerated setting, students’ portfolios show personal vision and artistic growth over time, mastery of visual art skills and techniques, and evidence of sophisticated analytical and problem-solving skills based on their structural, historical, and cultural knowledge. Students are self-directed and display readiness for high levels of critical thinking, research, conceptual thinking, and creative risk-taking. This course incorporates hands-on activities and consumption of art materials.
AP 2D ART & DESIGN
FLDOE: 0109350
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0655-0656
Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite(s): See Advanced Placement Eligibility. Painting, Drawing or Portfolio Development Honors
Note: Elective, Fine Art. Students must submit a digital portfolio AP College Board.
This college level course’s framework is composed of skills, big ideas, essential questions and enduring understandings, learning objectives, and essential knowledge. Skill categories delineate overarching understandings central to the study and practice of art and design. Each of the three skill categories consist of skills that encompass foundational to advanced learning over the span of the course. Students need to develop, practice, and apply these skills in a variety of contexts.
AP ART HISTORY
FLDOE: 0100300
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0672-0673
Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): See Advanced Placement Eligibility. Painting, Drawing or Portfolio Development Honors
Note: Elective, Fine Art. Students must take the AP exam in May.
Within AP Art History, students will explore the interconnections between art, culture, and historical context using critical analysis through the lenses of artistic expression, cultural awareness, and purpose. Using a defined art historical skill set and reflective learning, students will analyze relationships across cultures with a global lens. The examination of how people have responded to and communicated their experiences through art will enable students to think conceptually about art ranging from prehistoric to contemporary. Students will be active participants, engaging with art and its context as they read, research, and collaborate to learn about art, artists, art making, and responses to and interpretations of art.
FINE ARTS - VISUAL
CREATIVE PHOTOGRAPHY
CREATIVE PHOTOGRAPHY I & II
FLDOE: 0108310
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0695-0696
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): None
Note: Elective, Fine Art
Students explore the aesthetic foundations of art making using beginning photography techniques. This course may include, but is not limited to, color and/or black and white photography via digital media and/or traditional photography. Students become familiar with the basic mechanics of a camera, including lens and shutter operation, compositional foundations, printing an image for display, and evaluating a successful print. Student photographers may use a variety of media and materials, such as 35mm black and white film, single lens reflex camera, digital camera, darkroom, computer application, filters, various papers, digital output, photogram, cyanotypes, Sabatier effect, and pinhole photography. This course will explore the world of commercial photography that includes but is not limited to professional sports photography, fashion photography, advertising and product photography, photojournalism, lifestyle and branding. Adobe Lightroom will be used for photo processing and Adobe Photoshop used to create artistic compositions for their marketing pitch. This course incorporates hands-on experience that will be both independent and team based.
CREATIVE PHOTOGRAPHY III HONORS FLDOE: 0108330
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): See Honors Eligibility. Creative Photography I & II
Note: Elective, Fine Art
0697-0698
This course will build on their photo processing skills to complete advanced compositing projects using Adobe Lightroom, Adobe Photoshop, and Adobe Illustrator. Projects will include advanced processing of sports, landscape, nature, product and fashion photography. Advanced lighting techniques will be taught and new technologies discussed. Students will work in teams to carry out a commercial photo shoot from start to finish. This course will incorporate hands-on computer skills in Photoshop using the complete array of tool sets, color correction techniques and image adjustments to create and polish original work. Post processing and file management strategies will be implemented and students will evaluate and critique their own projects and those of their peers to measure artistic growth.
DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY IV HONORS
FLDOE: 8201340
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0718-0719
Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): See Honors Eligibility. Creative Photography III Honors.
Note: Elective, Fine Art
This class is for those who have completed Creative Photography III Honors, and have been recommended and approved by faculty. This course enhances level-three skills and provides opportunities to apply more complex photographic designs and digital techniques. It stresses personal expression of ideas and depth of exploration in selected photo techniques. Students will explore alternative/experimental processes in digital photography as well as an introduction to the field of photo/video journalism. This course requires students to do concentrated problemsolving and camera/photo manipulation. Both individual field and studio situations are experienced and studentinitiated. Problem-solving projects are initiated through research. Students individually prescribe their own situations, resolutions, and assessment criteria, and evaluate their successes. Instruction in honors classes is at a rigorous preadvanced placement level. Students will be expected to complete challenging assignments above grade level, both in and out of class.
YEARBOOK I HONORS
FINE ARTS - VISUAL
FLDOE: 8209510
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0686-0687
Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Teacher recommendation from two (2) teachers: one English teacher and one non-English teacher; one writing sample. See Yearbook Teacher for application process and submission requirements.
Note: Elective, Fine Arts Credit
The yearbook staff assumes responsibility for the complete production of the school yearbook, Excelsior. This includes learning and executing proper operation of Macintosh computers, as well as having proficient knowledge of the most up-to- date software versions of Photoshop and InDesign. Yearbook staff responsibilities also include time management, photos, layouts, design, editing, text, research, deadlines, and participation at school-related events.
While an elective class, this is a rigorous course that has important deadlines and high expectations; therefore, teacher recommendations and writing sample should reflect the student’s ability to be successful, and their intention and commitment to the course and the yearbook product. Space is limited. Submit writing sample to English department chair.
YEARBOOK II HONORS
FLDOE: 8209520
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0688-0689
Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite(s): Yearbook I Honors. Yearbook Teacher recommendation. See Yearbook Teacher for application process and submission requirements.
Note: Elective, Fine Arts Credit
The yearbook staff assumes responsibility for the complete production of the school yearbook, Excelsior. This includes learning and executing proper operation of Macintosh computers, as well as having proficient knowledge of the most up-to- date software versions of Photoshop and InDesign. Yearbook staff responsibilities also include time management, photos, layouts, design, editing, text, research, deadlines, and participation at school-related events. While an elective class, this is a rigorous course that has important deadlines and high expectations; therefore, teacher recommendations and writing sample should reflect the student’s ability to be successful, and their intention and commitment to the course and the yearbook product. Space is limited. Submit writing sample to English department chair.
FINE ARTS - PERFORMANCE
Graduation Requirement: One (1) credit in Fine Arts must be completed. (All courses listed below meet this requirement.)
Cardinal Gibbons High School offers courses in performing arts that include dance technique and choreography, acting, drama production and history, vocal and instrumental performing ensembles, electronic music, appreciation and theory.
There is a $85.00 Music Fee annually for all music performance groups.
* Denotes extracurricular activities — These courses are not taken during the regular school day, are no credit courses and are not calculated in the GPA. (AUD) Audition Required — (APP) Teacher Approval Required
FINE ARTS - PERFORMANCE ELECTIVES
FINE ARTS - PERFORMANCE
DANCE
DANCE TECHNIQUES I & II
FLDOE: 0300320
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0640-0641
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): None
Note: Elective. Fine Arts. All dance students are required to participate in an end-of-the-year performance recital. This course is aimed at developing to learn and refine dance skills and technique. Students explore various forms and dance styles, including ballet, contemporary, hip-hop, jazz, lyrical, and musical theater. Students will learn foundational skills of dance techniques and various movement combinations and continue improving their performance skills.
DANCE TECHNIQUE III HONORS
FLDOE: 0300330
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0645-0646
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): See Honors Eligibility. Dance Techniques I & II or Audition
Note: Elective. Fine Arts. All dance students are required to participate in an end-of-the-year performance recital. This course aims to assist the student with refining and mastering skills, with emphasis on physical and advanced artistic awareness. The course explores the dance elements of body, space, time, and dynamics as they connect to technical proficiency with a focus on muscular strength, endurance, and flexibility, while continuing to work on improvisational skills, expression, and creativity as it relates to dance beyond the intermediate level. Exposure to various forms and styles of dance (ballet, contemporary, hip-hop, jazz, lyrical, modern, and musical theater).
DANCE TECHNIQUE IV HONORS
FLDOE: 0300334
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0661-0662
Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Dance Techniques III Honors. Teacher recommendation.
Note: All dance students are required to participate in an end-of-the-year performance recital.
Students in this year-long, advanced dance techniques class build on skills learned in previous dance classes to improve their performance in two or more dance styles. During the class, students perform sequences of increasing complexity to advance their technical skills. Two or more forms, genres, styles, or techniques of dance (e.g., modern, ballet, jazz, folk, tap, hip-hop, ballroom) must be addressed in this course; aerobics instruction is not suitable for this course. This course may require students to participate in extra rehearsals and performances beyond the school day. Students who enjoy the challenges and successes of this course may wish to take an accelerated dance class in the future.
DANCE CHOREOGRAPHY HONORS
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): See Honors Eligibility. Dance Techniques IV Honors
FLDOE: 0300390
CGHS: 0647-0648
Note: Elective. Fine Arts. All dance students are required to participate in an end-of-the-year performance recital.
This course will provide students with the opportunity to explore the processes of composing and producing advanced level choreography. Students will identify and integrate contributions of modern and contemporary choreographers to expand their expertise of choreography skills and encourage inspiration, placing emphasis on improvisation, composition, lighting, costume design, music, and the exploration of modern and historical choreography. Students may be required to attend or participate in dance performances outside the school to further extend their knowledge and expertise with choreographic processes.
FINE ARTS - PERFORMANCE
THEATRICAL PERFORMANCE
INTRODUCTION TO ACTING
Credits: 1.0/Year
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s) None
FLDOE: 0400310
Note: Elective, Fine Art, After school rehearsal and production costs will be incurred. Through improvisation, simple scripted scenes, performance projects, and/or practical application, students learn to identify what makes performances believable and explore the tools used to create, articulate, and execute them. Upon completion of this course, students have a strong foundation for future scene work, script analysis, and play production. Public performances may serve as a culmination of specific instructional goals. Students may be required to attend and/or participate in rehearsals and performances outside the school day to support, extend, and assess learning in the classroom.
ACTING III HONORS
Credits: 1.0/Year
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Audition, Teacher Approval, and Introduction to Acting
Note: Elective, Fine Art, After school rehearsal and production costs will be incurred.
FLDOE: 0400330
Students focus on development of significant acting skills and knowledge of the actor’s literature, compiling a working actor’s portfolio for exhibition and/or the interview process. They research potential job opportunities in the film, television, game animation, and theatre industries, as well as scholarships and opportunities available at the university level. An inquiry-based capstone project may be required. Public performances may serve as a culmination of specific instructional goals. Students may be required to participate in rehearsals and performances outside the school day to support, extend, and assess learning in the classroom.
PRE-AP THEATRE
FLDOE: 0400750
Credits: 1.0/Year CGHS: 1439-1440
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Application interview/audition from teacher required. Theatre III. Note: Elective, Fine Art, After school rehearsal and production costs will be incurred. This performance-based course develops foundational acting, design, and directing techniques. Students engage in script analysis, improvisation, and ensemble collaboration, preparing them for AP or Dual Enrollment theatre studies. Public performance or portfolio assessment may be required.
FINE ARTS - PERFORMANCE
THEATRICAL DESIGN
INTRODUCTION TO TECHNICAL THEATER DESIGN & PRODUCTION
FLDOE: 0400420
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0743-0725
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): None
Note: Elective, Fine Art, After school rehearsal and production costs will be incurred.
Students focus on the design and safe application of basic tools and procedures to create elements of technical theater, including costumes, lighting, makeup, properties (props), publicity, scenery, and sound. Students develop assessment and problem-solving skills; the ability to connect selected literature to a variety of cultures, history, and other content areas. Public performances may serve as a culmination of specific instructional goals. Students may be required to attend or participate in technical work, rehearsals, and/or performances beyond the school day to support, extend, and assess learning in the classroom.
TECHNICAL THEATER DESIGN & PRODUCTION III
FLDOE: 0400430
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0726-0739
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Introduction to Technical Theater Design & Production and teacher approval
Note: Elective, Fine Art, After school rehearsal and production costs will be incurred.
Students regularly reflect on aesthetics and issues related to and addressed through theater, and create within various aspects of theater. Student designers and technicians assemble a portfolio that showcases a body of work representing artistic growth over time; growing command of theater skills and techniques in one or more areas; and evidence of significant oral and written analytical and problem-solving skills. Public performances may serve as a culmination of specific instructional goals. Students may be required to attend or participate in technical work, rehearsals, and/or performances beyond the school day to support, extend, and assess learning in the classroom.
TECHNICAL THEATER DESIGN & PRODUCTION IV HONORS
FLDOE: 0400440
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0727-0728
Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Technical Theater Design & Production II and teacher approval
Note: Elective, Fine Art, After school rehearsal and production costs will be incurred.
Students regularly reflect on aesthetics and issues related to and addressed through theatre, and create within various aspects of theatre in ways that are progressively more innovative. Students analyze increasingly more sophisticated theatre literature to inform the work of developing technical design and production pieces for one-acts or a larger production. Students assemble a portfolio that showcases an extensive body of work representing personal vision and artistic growth over time. Public performances may serve as a culmination of specific instructional goals. Students may be required to participate in rehearsals and performances outside the school day to support, extend, and assess learning in the classroom.
THEATRICAL DIRECTION AND STAGE MANAGEMENT I
FLDOE: 0400500
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0747-0748
Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Technical Theater Design & Production Honors or Acting IV Honors and teacher approval
Note: Elective, Fine Art, After school rehearsal and production costs will be incurred.
Students learn how to select, organize, and mount formal and informal staged productions by means of exploring the leadership roles of director and stage manager. Students focus on the nature and responsibilities of the director and stage manager in relation to the entire production team; the effect of the director’s concept on the overall production; vocabulary and principles of the various elements of play production; techniques used to create an effective theater (con’t on next page)
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FINE ARTS - PERFORMANCE
work; and basic knowledge and application of staging. Public performances may serve as a culmination of specific instructional goals. Students may be required to attend and/or participate in rehearsals and performances outside the school day to support, extend, and assess learning in the classroom.
THEATRICAL DIRECTION AND STAGE MANAGEMENT HONORS
FLDOE: 0400510
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0749-0751
Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite(s): Theatrical Direction and Stage Management, Technical Theatre & Design IV Honors, Acting IV Honors, and teacher approval
Note: Elective, Fine Art
Students execute the responsibilities of director or stage manager by applying standard theatrical conventions in specialized, practical assignments. Coursework include, but is not limited to, play selection; justification, analysis, and the formation of a directorial concept; assembling a prompt book; assembling a cast, production team, and tech crew; effective team-building ensemble skills and communication practices; and successfully planning and running rehearsals leading toward one or more culminating projects. Public performances may serve as a culmination of specific instructional goals. Students may be required to attend and/or participate in rehearsals and performances outside the school day to support, extend, and assess learning in the classroom.
GENERAL MUSIC
MUSIC OF THE WORLD
FLDOE: 1300340
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0797-0798
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): None
Note: Elective, Fine Art
This course is meant to offer students an opportunity to explore the rich tradition of the art of music in its forms, intricacies and beauty. The course seeks to engage students in an encounter with music as a link to history as well as the key that unlocks the human’s spirit and imagination. Through the study of the techniques of musical composition, terms and a general introduction to theory, students will learn the styles and influence of musicians and composers around the globe. This course will bring forth a new appreciation for the art of music.
MUSIC TECHNOLOGY AND SOUND ENGINEERING
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): None
Note: Elective, Fine Art
FLDOE: 1304300
CGHS: 0758-0759
This course is designed to familiarize the student with the basic theoretical components of music composition. Students will use these skills and 21st century music technology to explore musical styles and create original compositions. Students will engage in multiple forms of composition ranging from percussion/drum loops to developing original scores for video presentations.
PRE-AP MUSIC THEORY
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): One year of music performance ensemble or teacher approval
Note: Pre-AP Fine & Performing Arts
FLDOE: 1300320
CGHS: 0760-0761
This Pre-AP course introduces the fundamentals of music notation, ear training, rhythm, and melodic dictation. Students learn to analyze and create short compositions, developing aural skills and harmonic understanding that prepare them for AP Music Theory or Dual Enrollment Music courses.
AP MUSIC THEORY
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 11, 12
FINE ARTS - PERFORMANCE
FLDOE: 1300330
CGHS: 0782-0783
Prerequisite(s): See Advanced Placement Eligibility and Music Theory or two years of ensemble performance/teacher approval.
Note: Elective, Fine Art students must take the nationally standardized AP exam in May.
This is a college-level course that expands upon theoretical music concepts learned throughout previous music courses. Students will explore the depth of the structure of music and how each element and component functions. Students develop the ability to recognize, understand, and describe basic materials and processes of music that are heard or presented in a score. The development of aural skills is a primary objective that will be achieved by listening to and performing a wide variety of music.
DUAL ENROLLMENT RUDIMENTS OF MUSIC/LISTENING TO MUSIC
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 11, 12
FLDOE: MUS 106-MUS 108
CGHS: 1441-1442
Prerequisite(s): One year of music performance ensemble or teacher approval. Must meet Dual Enrollment Eligibility Criteria
Note: Elective, Fine Art.
This is a college-level course that expands upon theoretical music concepts learned throughout previous music courses. Students will explore the depth of the structure of music and how each element and component functions. Students develop the ability to recognize, understand, and describe basic materials and processes of music that are heard or presented in a score. The development of aural skills is a primary objective that will be achieved by listening to and performing a wide variety of music.
INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC
KEYBOARD I
Credits: 0.5 /Semester
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): None
Note: Elective, Fine Art, Semester 1
FLDOE: 1301360
CGHS: 0791
This course is designed to introduce the student to playing the piano. The students will learn basic music theory and proper techniques to be able to play piano at a beginner level. Students build fundamental piano techniques while learning to read music, acquire and apply knowledge of basic music theory, and explore the role of keyboard music in history and culture. Beginning pianists develop skills in analytical listening and explore musical creativity in the form of basic improvisation and basic composition. Public performances may serve as a culmination of specific instructional goals. Students may be required to attend and/or participate in rehearsals and performances outside the school day to support, extend, and assess learning in the classroom.
KEYBOARD II
Credits: 0.5 /Semester
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Keyboard I
Note: Elective, Fine Art, Semester 2
FLDOE: 1301360
CGHS: 0792
This secondary course in piano technique will build on basic keyboard knowledge and focus on sight reading, chordal structure, ear training and playing at an intermediate level. Students build on previous piano techniques and skills through reading music, acquiring and applying knowledge of music theory, and exploring the role of keyboard music in history and culture. Students learn repertoire from various styles and time periods, exploring the historical influence
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FINE ARTS - PERFORMANCE
of the piano in the history of music performance and composition. Public performances may serve as a culmination of specific instructional goals.
KEYBOARD III HONORS
FLDOE: 1301370
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0793-0794
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Teacher Approval or Audition, Keyboard II
Note: Elective, Fine Art
This advanced course in piano technique will continue to build on keyboard knowledge and focus on sight reading, chordal structure, ear training and playing at an advanced level. Students build on previous piano techniques and skills through reading music, acquiring and applying knowledge of music theory, and exploring the role of keyboard music in history and culture. Students learn repertoire from various styles and time periods, exploring the historical influence of the piano in the history of music performance and composition. Public performances may serve as a culmination of specific instructional goals.
INSTRUMENTAL TECHNIQUES I & II
FLDOE: 1302420/30
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0762-0763
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): None
Note: Elective, Fine Art, $85 Instrumental Rental/Maintenance Fee
Students in this class focus on the development of musical and technical skills on a specific instrument through etudes, scales, and selected music literature. Through problem-solving, critical thinking, and reflection, students develop the physical and cognitive skills to be more disciplined performers. Public performances may serve as a culmination of specific instructional goals. Students may be required to attend and/or participate in rehearsals and performances outside the school day to support, extend, and assess learning in the classroom.
CONCERT ORCHESTRA HONORS
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Teacher Approval or Audition. Instrumental Technology I & II
FLDOE: 1302400
CGHS: 0772-0773
Note: Elective, Fine Art, All Students are Required To Attend After School Rehearsals and Performances, $85 Music Performance Fee
This year-long, advanced course, designed for brass, wind, percussion and string players with experience in solo performance and larger performing ensembles, promotes significant depth of engagement and lifelong appreciation of music through performance and other experiences with sophisticated instrumental music. The course includes the development of advanced instrumental ensemble techniques and skills, extended music literacy and theory, and deep aesthetic engagement with a broad spectrum of high-quality repertoire, ranging from early music to the contemporary. This ensemble performs several required concerts throughout the school year. Private lessons are highly recommended. Members of this ensemble are encouraged to participate in FOA/FBA Solo and Ensemble assessment if qualified. Extracurricular rehearsals will also be a requirement of this ensemble.
INSTRUMENTAL TECHNIQUES III HONORS
FLDOE: 1302450
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0764-0765
Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Teacher Approval or Audition, Concert Orchestra Honors
Note: Elective, Fine Art, All Students are Required To Attend After School Rehearsals and Performances, $85 Music Performance Fee
Students in this advanced class refine their musicianship and performance skills on a specified instrument. Students prepare for post-secondary and community music experiences and develop artistry independently through a variety
FINE ARTS - PERFORMANCE
of advanced solos, etudes, and excerpts. Public performances may serve as a culmination of specific instructional goals. Students may be required to attend and/or participate in rehearsals and performances outside the school day to support, extend, and assess learning in the classroom. This course may also require students to obtain a musical instrument (e.g., borrow, rent, purchase) from an outside source. This ensemble performs several required concerts throughout the school year. Private lessons are highly recommended. Members of this ensemble are encouraged to participate in FOA/FBA Solo and Ensemble assessment if qualified. Extracurricular rehearsals will also be a requirement of this ensemble.
INSTRUMENTAL ENSEMBLE IV HONORS
FLDOE: 13024490
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0789-0790
Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Concert Orchestra/Instrumental Techniques Honors and Teacher Approval or Audition
Note: Elective, Fine Art, All Students are Required To Attend After School Rehearsals and Performances, $85 Music Performance Fee
Students with extensive instrumental ensemble experience refine their critical listening, music literacy, and ensemble skills through the study, rehearsal, and performance of high-quality, advanced literature of multiple genres including Jazz, Blues, World Music, Film and Television Scores and Folk Music. Students use reflection and problem-solving skills with increasing independence to improve their performance and musical expression. Group and Solo public performances will serve as a culmination of specific instructional goals. Students will be required to attend and/ or participate in rehearsals and performances outside the school day to support, extend, and assess learning in the classroom.
VOCAL MUSIC
CONCERT CHORUS I
FLDOE: 1303300
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0766-0767
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Teacher Approval and Audition
Note: Elective, Fine Art, All Students are Required To Attend After School Rehearsals and Performances, $85 Music Performance Fee
The purpose of this course is to provide fundamental training for singers. Students will be taught basic vocal pedagogy, music theory, sight-singing skills, and performance ensemble techniques. This ensemble performs a broad repertoire from sacred to popular music. Concert Chorus performs at several required concerts and community events throughout the school year.
CONCERT CHORUS II HONORS
FLDOE: 1303340
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0768-0769
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Teacher Approval or Audition
Note: Elective, Fine Art, All Students are Required To Attend After School Rehearsals and Performances, $85 Music Performance Fee
This year-long, advanced class is designed for students with previous participation in a high school chorus who have demonstrated a capacity for developing advanced listening/aural skills and advanced knowledge of vocal techniques, musical literacy, and choral performance. This course focuses on development and application of these skills and provides opportunities for engagement in the preparation of a variety of high-quality choral literature. This ensemble performs a broad repertoire from sacred to popular music. Concert Chorus performs at several required concerts and community events throughout the school year.
FINE ARTS - PERFORMANCE
CONCERT CHORUS III HONORS
FLDOE: 1303350
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0776-0777
Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Teacher Approval or Audition, Chorus I & II
Note: Elective, Fine Art, All Students are Required To Attend After School Rehearsals and Performances, $85 Music Performance Fee
This year-long, advanced class is designed for students with previous participation in a high school chorus who have demonstrated a capacity for developing advanced listening/aural skills and advanced knowledge of vocal techniques, musical literacy, and choral performance. This course focuses on development and application of these skills and provides opportunities for engagement in the preparation of a variety of high-quality choral literature. This ensemble performs a broad repertoire from sacred to popular music. Concert Chorus performs at several required concerts and community events throughout the school year.
VOCAL TECHNIQUES HONORS
Credits: 1.0 /Year
Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Teacher Approval or Audition. Concert Chorus III
FLDOE: 1303430
CGHS: 0774-0775
Note: Elective, Fine Art, All Students are Required To Attend After School Rehearsals and Performances, $85 Music Performance Fee
Students in this advanced class refine their musicianship and performance skills on a specified voice. Students prepare for post-secondary and community music experiences and develop artistry independently through a variety of advanced solos, etudes, and excerpts. Public performances may serve as a culmination of specific instructional goals. Students will be required to attend and/or participate in rehearsals and performances outside the school day to support, extend, and assess learning in the classroom.
DIGITAL VIDEO TECHNOLOGY
DIGITAL VIDEO TECHNOLOGY I HONORS
Credits: 1.0/Year
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): None
FLDOE: 8201410
CGHS: 0704-0705
Note: Elective, Practical Art, Digital Video Technology Pathway. Membership in CGTV Club is required.
This introductory course provides students with a thorough foundation of the elements of digital video preproduction, production, and post-production. Through a series of projects, discussions, and classroom critiques, students gain a fundamental understanding of storyboarding, scripting, directing, filming, lighting, and editing digital video productions at an honors level utilizing critical thinking, problem solving, leadership, and collaborative skills. Students complete assignments and assessments as well as contribute to weekly school newscasts (CGTV) using industry-standard software (Adobe Premiere Pro) and videography equipment.
DIGITAL VIDEO TECHNOLOGY II HONORS
Credits: 1.0/Year
Grade Level: 10, 11
Prerequisite(s): Digital Video Technology I Honors
Note: Must be enrolled in the Pathway to take this course.
FLDOE: 8201420
CGHS: 0706-0707
This honors-level course builds upon foundational production skills with advanced editing and production techniques. Students explore scripting, directing, cinematography, and post-production workflows while developing collaboration, creativity, and technical proficiency.
*All other levels of Digital Video Technology I Honors can be found in the Pathway section.
FINE ARTS - PERFORMANCE
EXTRACURRICULAR ELECTIVES
PRAISE AND WORSHIP ENSEMBLE
Credits: Extracurricular
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Teacher Approval or Audition
Note: Extracurricular
Students with at least one year of vocal or instrumental music performance experience will continue to develop and refine their musicianship and ensemble skills through participation in a praise and worship ensemble dedicated to praying through the gift of music. The ensemble leads worship at school and community Masses, retreats, and other liturgical events, fostering both musical and spiritual growth. Students are expected to attend scheduled rehearsals and performances outside the school day to prepare for and support these events. Participation may require access to a musical instrument (borrowed, rented, or purchased) as appropriate for each student’s role in the ensemble.
MARCHING BAND/DRUMLINE
Credits: Extracurricular
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Teacher Approval or Audition
Note: Extracurricular
This course is a performing ensemble. It is made up of students of at least one year of playing/performing experience and performs music literature of various genres throughout the year. The class performs for but is not limited to sporting events, concerts, competitions, parades, and district and state-level music assessment performances during the fall semester. Preseason camp and extracurricular rehearsals are a requirement There will be two rehearsals per week from August - November. All rehearsals and performances are mandatory.
JAZZ AND JAM ENSEMBLE
Credits: Extracurricular
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Teacher Approval or Audition
Note: Extracurricular
The course is an advanced workshop to develop skills in jazz, rock and pop genres for performance. Emphasis will be placed on sight-reading, improvisation, and section work. This ensemble will perform in various concerts, events, school functions and sporting events, recruitment tours, parades, city functions. Private lessons are recommended. Extracurricular rehearsals are required. There will be three to five rehearsals per month. All rehearsals and performances are mandatory.
CHAMBER CHORUS
FLDOE: 8201420
Credits: Extracurricular CGHS: 0706-0707
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Teacher Approval or Audition
Note: Extracurricular Fine Art, All Students are Required To Attend After School Rehearsals and Performances, $85 Music Performance Fee
The Chamber Chorus is an auditioned vocal ensemble for advanced singers seeking additional performance opportunities. This ensemble focuses on performance of challenging chamber repertoire, including classical, contemporary, and a cappella literature. This ensemble performs at concerts, festivals, and community events throughout the year. Regular after school rehearsals and performances are required, and members are expected to maintain exemplary musicianship, attendance, and professionalism.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION & HEALTH
Current Graduation Requirement: One (1) credit of Physical Education and Health must be completed.
All freshmen are required to take HOPE. HOPE is offered during the summer before and during freshman year. The following descriptions and designations for Physical Education courses have been assigned.
HOPE – PHYSICAL EDUCATION VARIATION
FLDOE: 1506320
Credits: 1.0 /Year CGHS: 0804-0805
Grade Level: 9
Prerequisite(s): HOPE is a full year course. Students must take HOPE Health and HOPE Personal Fitness jointly. Note: Requirement
The purpose of this course is to provide an in-depth study of the principles of personal health maintenance. Wellness promotion for self and others will be emphasized along with responsible decision-making and planning for a healthy lifestyle. This course offers a variety of team, individual, and lifetime sports and stresses the acquisition of knowledge to fit into personal lifestyles. It teaches an understanding of stress maintenance, muscle groups related to physical fitness, weight conditioning and training, and an exercise program.
PE & HEALTH ELECTIVES
TEAM SPORTS I
FLDOE: 1503350
Credits: 0.5 /Semester CGHS: 0808
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): HOPE PE and Health
This course is designed for students interested in learning skills and strategies of team sports. This course will include daily skill instruction and implementation of those skills into a competitive game setting. Sports may include but are not limited to: basketball, flag football, soccer, ultimate frisbee, hockey, wiffle ball, and volleyball. This course will also include daily cardiovascular fitness. It is designed to teach students different team sports while enhancing personal and social behaviors.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION & HEALTH
TEAM SPORTS II
Credits: 0.5 /Semester
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): HOPE PE and Health
FLDOE: 1503360
CGHS: 0809
This course is designed for students interested in learning skills and strategies of team sports. This course will include daily skill instruction and implementation of those skills into a competitive game setting. Sports may include but are not limited to: basketball, flag football, soccer, ultimate frisbee, hockey, wiffle ball, and volleyball. This course will also include daily cardiovascular fitness. It is designed to teach students different team sports while enhancing personal and social behaviors.
WEIGHT TRAINING I
Credits: 0.5 /Semester
Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): HOPE
FLDOE: 1501340
CGHS: 0813
Weight Training 1 is an introductory course designed to teach students the fundamental principles of resistance training and physical fitness. Students will learn proper lifting techniques, safety procedures, and how to use free weights, machines, and bodyweight exercises to improve overall strength, endurance, and flexibility. Emphasis is placed on developing correct form, understanding muscle groups, and creating a balanced beginner-level training routine. Students will also explore basic fitness concepts including goal setting, workout design, and injury prevention.
WEIGHT TRAINING II
Credits: 0.5 /Semester
Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Weight Training I
FLDOE: 1501350
CGHS: 0814
Weight Training 2 builds upon the foundational skills developed in Weight Training 1. This course emphasizes progressive strength training, individualized program design, and advanced lifting techniques. Students will learn principles of power development and training periodization. Emphasis is placed on personal goal achievement, tracking progress, and refining lifting form to maximize performance safely and effectively. This course prepares students for participation in Intermediate Weight Training and Advanced Weight Training courses.
INTERMEDIATE WEIGHT TRAINING
Credits: 0.5 /Semester
Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite(s): Weight Training I & II
FLDOE: 1501360
CGHS: 0815
Intermediate Weight Training emphasizes the application of advanced training principles, including periodization, split routines, and performance tracking. Students will refine their lifting techniques and focus on strength, power, and muscular development. The course integrates goal-specific programming such as athletic performance, physique development, or functional fitness.
ADVANCED WEIGHT TRAINING
Credits: 0.5 /Semester
Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite(s): Intermediate Weight Training
FLDOE: 1501410
CGHS: 0818
Advanced Weight Training is designed for highly motivated students who have mastered proper form and training concepts. The course focuses on advanced resistance training methods, Olympic lifting fundamentals, and sportspecific conditioning. Students will design, implement, and evaluate personalized programs aimed at peak physical performance. Emphasis is placed on leadership in the weight room, mentoring peers, and lifelong fitness development.
ADDITIONAL ELECTIVES
DEAN’S AIDE
Credits: 0.5 /Semester
Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite(s): Dean approval required
Note: Elective
FLDOE: 8909010
CGHS: 0961
This course prepares students to assist the dean’s office by developing essential skills in communication, ethical practices, and student support.
COUNSELOR’S AIDE
Credits: 0.5 /Semester
Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite(s): Counselor and Dean approval required
Note: Elective
FLDOE: 8909010
CGHS: 0962
This course prepares students to assist counselors by developing essential skills in communication, ethical practices, and student support.
SAT PREPARATION
Credits: 0.5 /Semester
Grade Level: 10, 11
Prerequisite(s): Completion of or corequisite of Algebra II
FLDOE: 1209315
CGHS: 0941
The SAT Preparation course is designed to equip high school students with the essential skills and strategies needed to succeed on the SAT college entrance exam. This course focuses on reinforcing academic content and enhancing test-taking abilities in alignment with the specific sections of the SAT: Reading, Writing, and Mathematics. Students will develop critical thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills while learning effective strategies for navigating each section of the test.
CAREER READINESS PATHWAYS
Cardinal Gibbons High School Career Readiness Pathways provide students with structured, multi-year sequences that develop academic knowledge, technical skills, and ethical decision-making. Pathways align with Florida standards and prepare students for postsecondary education, industry certifications, and meaningful careers while emphasizing responsibility, collaboration, and real-world application.
The following section outlines all courses within each pathway program, including the progression of courses. Acceptance into the pathway program is required to continue into the second and third years of the program.
CAREER READINESS PATHWAYS
Allied Health Science
Pathway
Year 1
Anatomy and Physiology
(Regular/Honors)
Year 2
Health Science
Foundations Honors
Year 3
Nursing Assistant 3 Honors
ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY
FLDOE Course Code: 2000350
Credits: 1.0 / Year
CGHS: 0431–0432
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Biology
Note: Elective, Science
This course provides an in-depth study of the structure and function of the human body. Students examine major body systems, medical terminology, and the relationship between anatomy and physiological processes. Emphasis is placed on understanding how systems maintain homeostasis and respond to disease, injury, and environmental stressors. Laboratory activities and applied learning support students pursuing health science and medical-related pathways.
ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY HONORS
FLDOE Course Code: 2000360
Credits: 1.0 / Year
CGHS: 0433–0434
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Biology and teacher approval
Note: Elective, Science
This honors-level course provides an advanced study of human anatomy and physiology with emphasis on critical thinking and scientific inquiry. Students analyze body systems in greater depth, explore physiological mechanisms, and apply medical terminology through laboratory investigations and case studies. The course prepares students for advanced coursework and careers in health science and medicine.
HEALTH SCIENCE FOUNDATIONS HONORS
FLDOE Course Code: 8417110
Credits: 1.0 / Year
CGHS: 0884–0885
Grade Level: 11
Prerequisite(s): None
Note: Must be enrolled in the Pathway to take this course.
This honors-level course introduces students to the health science field and a wide range of healthcare careers. Students explore medical ethics, legal responsibilities, patient safety, infection control, and basic clinical skills. Emphasis is placed on professionalism, communication, and ethical decisionmaking through hands-on activities and real-world healthcare scenarios.
NURSING ASSISTANT 3 HONORS
FLDOE Course Code: 8417211
Credits: 1.0 / Year
CGHS: 0880-0881
Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite(s): Health Science Foundations Honors
Note: Must be enrolled in the Pathway to take this course.
This honors-level course prepares students for entry-level patient care roles
CAREER READINESS PATHWAYS
Business Pathway
Year 1
Business & Entrepreneurship Principles Honors
Year 2
Catholic Entrepreneurship and Design Experience Honors
Year 3
Business Management Honors
through advanced nursing assistant skills. Students learn patient support techniques, vital signs monitoring, infection control, and basic clinical procedures. Emphasis is placed on compassion, professionalism, and ethical responsibility in healthcare settings, with preparation for postsecondary programs and industry certification opportunities.
BUSINESS AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP PRINCIPLES HONORS
FLDOE Course Code: 8215120
Credits: 1.0 / Year
CGHS: 0945–0952
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): None
Note: Elective
This honors-level course introduces students to foundational business concepts and entrepreneurial thinking. Students explore economics, marketing, finance, management, and innovation while developing leadership, collaboration, and problem-solving skills. Emphasis is placed on ethical business practices and real-world application through projects and case studies.
CATHOLIC ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND DESIGN EXPERIENCE HONORS
FLDOE Course Code: ACR 0071
Credits: 1.0 / Year
CGHS: 0955–0956
Grade Level: 11
Prerequisite(s): Business and Entrepreneurship Principles Honors or teacher approval
Note: Must be enrolled in the Pathway to take this course.
This honors-level course applies design thinking and entrepreneurship principles through a mission-driven lens. Students identify real-world challenges, develop innovative solutions, and create business models that emphasize ethical leadership, service, and social responsibility. Collaboration, creativity, and reflective practice are central components of the course.
BUSINESS MANAGEMENT HONORS
FLDOE Course Code: 8301100
Credits: 1.0 / Year
CGHS: 0953
Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite(s): Business and Entrepreneurship Principles Honors Note: Must be enrolled in the Pathway to take this course.
This honors-level course focuses on management principles, organizational structure, and leadership strategies. Students examine decision-making, human resources, marketing, and operations management. Emphasis is placed on ethical leadership, teamwork, and effective communication in modern business environments.
CAREER READINESS PATHWAYS
Digital Video
Technology Pathway
Year 1
Digital Video Technology I Honors
Year 2
Digital Video Technology II Honors
Year 3
Digital Video Technology III Honors
Optional:
Digital Video Technology IV Honors
DIGITAL VIDEO TECHNOLOGY I HONORS
FLDOE Course Code: 8201410
Credits: 1.0 / Year
CGHS: 0704–0705
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11
Prerequisite(s): None
Note: Elective
This honors-level course introduces students to the fundamentals of digital video production. Students learn camera operation, composition, lighting, audio recording, and basic editing techniques. Emphasis is placed on storytelling, visual literacy, and responsible media creation through hands-on projects.
DIGITAL VIDEO TECHNOLOGY II HONORS
FLDOE Course Code: 8201420
Credits: 1.0 / Year
CGHS: 0706–0707
Grade Level: 10, 11
Prerequisite(s): Digital Video Technology I Honors
Note: Elective
This honors-level course builds upon foundational production skills with advanced editing and production techniques. Students explore scripting, directing, cinematography, and post-production workflows while developing collaboration, creativity, and technical proficiency.
DIGITAL VIDEO TECHNOLOGY III HONORS
FLDOE Course Code: 8201430
Credits: 1.0 / Year
CGHS: 0708–0709
Grade Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Digital Video Technology II Honors
Note: Must be enrolled in the Pathway to take this course.
This honors-level course emphasizes advanced video production and project management. Students create complex media projects while exploring industry standards, media ethics, and audience engagement through independent and collaborative work.
DIGITAL VIDEO TECHNOLOGY IV HONORS
FLDOE Course Code: 8201440
Credits: 1.0 / Year
CGHS: 0713-0714
Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite(s): Digital Video Technology III Honors
Note: Must be enrolled in the Pathway to take this course.
This honors-level capstone course provides students with advanced, real-world digital video production experiences. Students manage long-term projects from concept development through final delivery while refining technical skills in cinematography, editing, sound design, and post-production workflows. Emphasis is placed on professional standards, leadership, collaboration, and ethical media practices. Students develop a polished portfolio that demonstrates creative vision and technical proficiency in preparation for postsecondary programs or careers in media and communications.
CAREER READINESS PATHWAYS
Emergency Medical Technician Pathway
Year 1
Anatomy and Physiology (Regular/Honors)
Year 2
Emergency Medical Responder Honors
Year 3
Emergency Medical Technician Honors
ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY
FLDOE Course Code: 2000350
Credits: 1.0 / Year
CGHS: 0431–0432
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Biology
Note: Elective, Science
This course provides an in-depth study of the structure and function of the human body. Students examine major body systems, medical terminology, and the relationship between anatomy and physiological processes. Emphasis is placed on understanding how systems maintain homeostasis and respond to disease, injury, and environmental stressors. Laboratory activities and applied learning support students pursuing health science and medical-related pathways.
ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY HONORS
FLDOE Course Code: 2000360
Credits: 1.0 / Year
CGHS: 0433–0434
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Biology and teacher approval
Note: Elective, Science
This honors-level course provides an advanced study of human anatomy and physiology with emphasis on critical thinking and scientific inquiry. Students analyze body systems in greater depth, explore physiological mechanisms, and apply medical terminology through laboratory investigations and case studies. The course prepares students for advanced coursework and careers in health science and medicine.
EMERGENCY MEDICAL RESPONDER HONORS
FLDOE Course Code: 8417171
Credits: 1.0 / Year
CGHS: 0890–0891
Grade Level: 11
Prerequisite(s): Anatomy and Physiology
Note: Must be enrolled in the Pathway to take this course.
This honors-level course introduces students to emergency medical response principles. Students learn patient assessment, basic life support, emergency procedures, and scene safety. Emphasis is placed on teamwork, communication, and ethical responsibility in emergency situations.
EMERGENCY MEDICAL TECHNICIAN HONORS
FLDOE Course Code: EMS 0159
Credits: 1.0 / Year
CGHS: 0892–0893
Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite(s): Emergency Medical Responder Honors
Note: Must be enrolled in the Pathway to take this course.
This honors-level course prepares students for advanced emergency medical care. Students study trauma response, medical emergencies, patient transport,
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CAREER READINESS PATHWAYS
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Engineering Pathway
Year 1
Introduction to Engineering Design Honors
Year 2
Computer Integrated Manufacturing Honors
Year 3
Robotics I Honors
and emergency systems. Hands-on learning and scenario-based instruction emphasize professionalism, critical thinking, and readiness for postsecondary EMT certification.
INTRODUCTION TO ENGINEERING DESIGN HONORS
FLDOE Course Code: 8600550
Credits: 1.0 / Year
CGHS: 0491-0492
Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): None
Note: Elective
This honors-level course introduces students to the engineering design process. Students develop solutions using problem-solving strategies, technical drawings, and modeling tools. Emphasis is placed on creativity, precision, collaboration, and real-world engineering challenges.
COMPUTER INTEGRATED MANUFACTURING HONORS
FLDOE Course Code: 8600560
Credits: 1.0 / Year
CGHS: 0461-0462
Grade Level: 11
Prerequisite(s): Introduction to Engineering Design Honors Note: Must be enrolled in the Pathway to take this course.
This honors-level course focuses on automated manufacturing systems and computer-controlled production. Students connect digital design to manufacturing technologies while developing systems thinking, precision, and technical skills. Materials and processing skills and learning included in this course.
ROBOTICS I HONORS
FLDOE Course Code: 9410110
Credits: 1.0 / Year
CGHS: 0463-0464
Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite(s): Introduction to Engineering Design Honors Note: Must be enrolled in the Pathway to take this course.
This honors-level course introduces robotics concepts including mechanical systems, sensors, programming, and automation. Students design, build, and test robotic systems while applying engineering principles and collaborative problem-solving strategies.
CAREER READINESS PATHWAYS
Computer Science and AI Pathway
Year 1
Coding – JavaScript Honors
Year 2
Computer Programming –Python Honors
Year 3
Foundations of Programming with AI Honors
CODING – JAVASCRIPT HONORS
FLDOE Course Code: 9007520
Credits: 1.0 / Year
CGHS: 0848-0849
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): None Note: Elective
This honors-level course introduces students to computer programming using JavaScript. Students learn core coding concepts including variables, conditionals, loops, and functions. Emphasis is placed on logical thinking, creativity, and real-world application through interactive projects.
COMPUTER PROGRAMMING – PYTHON HONORS
FLDOE Course Code: 9007510
Credits: 1.0 / Year
CGHS: 0850-0851
Grade Level: 11
Prerequisite(s): Coding – JavaScript Honors or teacher approval
Note: Must be enrolled in the Pathway to take this course.
This honors-level course builds upon foundational programming skills using Python. Students develop algorithms, analyze data, and create programs to solve complex problems. Emphasis is placed on computational thinking, efficiency, and ethical use of technology.
FOUNDATIONS OF PROGRAMMING WITH ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
FLDOE Course Code: 9007210
Credits: 1.0 / Year
CGHS: 0858-0859
Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite(s): None
Note: Must be enrolled in the Pathway to take this course.
This course introduces students to foundational concepts of computer programming and computational thinking. Students learn how programs are designed, written, tested, and debugged while exploring core concepts such as algorithms, sequencing, variables, conditionals, and loops. An introduction to artificial intelligence concepts is embedded through activities that examine how simple programs can simulate decision-making, pattern recognition, and automation. Emphasis is placed on logical reasoning, problem-solving, and ethical use of technology as students explore how programming and AI tools are used together to create applications and solve real-world problems. The course prepares students for more advanced coursework in computer science, programming, and artificial intelligence pathways
CALASANZ PROGRAM
The following section outlines all courses within the Calasanz Program, including the progression of courses. Electives may be chosen from within the current curriculum guide.
FRESHMAN YEAR
English 9 - 12
Math 9 - 12
Social Studies 9 - 12 / Theology 9 - 12
Science 9 - 12
Career Education / Career Preparation
Hope (Health through Physical Education)
Elective Course
JUNIOR YEAR
English 9 - 12
Math 9 - 12
Social Studies 9 - 12 / Theology 9 - 12
Science 9 - 12
Career Education / Career Preparation
Elective Course
Elective Course
SOPHOMORE YEAR
English 9 - 12
Math 9 - 12
Social Studies 9 - 12 / Theology 9 - 12
Science 9 - 12
Career Education / Career Preparation
Elective Course
Elective Course
SENIOR YEAR
English 9 - 12
Math 9 - 12
Social Studies 9 - 12 / Theology 9 - 12
Science 9 - 12
Career Education / Career Preparation
Elective Course
Elective Course
**CORE classes meet Access requirements by the state of Florida and the Archdiocese of Miami. Students in the Calasanz Program graduate with an ACCESS Diploma.**
ENGLISH 9-12
The English curriculum focuses on developing communication, reading comprehension, and writing skills aligned with the Florida Access Points for English Language Arts (ELA). Students engage in adapted literature, real-world texts, and functional writing activities that emphasize understanding main ideas, sequencing events, expressing opinions, and expanding vocabulary. Instruction supports reading fluency, oral communication, and comprehension through modified texts and scaffolded assignments. Students practice foundational grammar, spelling, and sentence construction while learning to express their thoughts clearly in writing and speech.
Access Emphasis: ELA.9-12 Access Points -- Reading Literature and informational Texts, Writing for a Purpose, Communication, and Language Conventions.
MATH 9-12
The Math curriculum is designed to strengthen practical mathematical understanding and problem-solving skills aligned with the Florida Access Points for Mathematics. Students explore number sense operations, measurement, geometry, and data through hands-on and real-world applications. Concepts are taught with visual supports, manipulatives, and technology integration to reinforce understanding of money, time, fractions, and basic algebraic thinking. The goal is to build numeracy, reasoning, and functional math skills relevant to daily living and vocational settings.
Access Emphasis: Mathematics Access Points--Number and Quantity, Algebraic Thinking, Geometry, Measurement, and Data Analysis.
SCIENCE 9-12
The science curriculum engages students in exploring the natural world through observation, experimentation, and inquiry-based learning aligned with the Florida Access Points for Science. Topics include Earth and Space Science, Life Science, and Physical Science, with adaptations that focus on concrete, hands-on exploration. Students learn to identify basic scientific concepts such as the properties of matter, energy, weather, the water cycle, ecosystems, and the human body. Lessons promote curiosity, environmental awareness, and connections to real-world phenomena.
Access Emphasis: Science Access Points--Nature of Science, Earth and Space Science, Life Science, and Physical Science.
CALASANZ PROGRAM
SOCIAL STUDIES 9 -12 / THEOLOGY
The social studies curriculum introduces students to history, geography, civics, and economics through meaningful, accessible learning experiences aligned with the Florida Access Points for Social Studies. Students explore community roles, cultural diversity, historical events, and civic responsibilities through simplified texts, visuals, and interactive activities. Theology instruction integrates Catholic values, faith formation, and service learning, promoting empathy, moral reasoning, and global awareness.
Access Emphasis: Social Studies Access Points--Civics and Government, Geography, U.S. and World History, and Economics; Theology integrated through moral and spiritual application.
CAREER EDUCATION 9 - 12 / CAREER PREPARATION 9 - 12
The Career Education and Career Preparation courses focus on helping students with disabilities develop the skills needed for competitive employment and independent living. Instruction emphasizes vocational activities and handson learning, connecting classroom lessons to real-world experiences. Programs are individualized through each student’s IEP and include job exploration, work readiness activities and learning experiences, and self-advocacy development. Students also participate in field trips and community-based experiences that expose them to various career paths and workplace environments. Through these opportunities, students build confidence, independence, and essential skills for success beyond high school.
INDEX
INDEX
WORLD LANGUAGES
DE Beginning Spanish II and Intermediate Spanish I (Spanish III) SPN 1102