Skilled and Technical Sciences

CARPENTRY ESSENTIALS

Scholars will develop proficiency skills in the areas of carpentry and manufacturing that support entry into local apprenticeship programs. This course also provides scholars with job-related skills, including leadership, working conditions, attitudes, and safety standards. In this yearlong class, scholars will learn basic carpentry skills, including framing by building a wall while installing electrical, drywall, and finishing it with mud. Scholars will also learn how to cut out steps, mix cement, lay out a rafter, and use other technical industry tools. Scholars will also complete units in welding and tile work. This class provides foundational learning of the industry and exposure to the many construction career pathways.

CARPENTRY SPECIALIST 2

Scholars in this course continue developing the skills in the areas of carpentry and manufacturing as well as skills that support entry into local apprenticeship programs. This course also provides scholars with job-related skills, including leadership, working conditions, attitudes, and safety standards. This course is a continuation of Carpentry Specialist 1. This course includes: Basic safety, OSHA and WISHA standards, industry work skills, group and individual problem solving, carpentry math, linear measurement, tools, gauges, hand tools, and work ethics. Scholars will build construction management skills by designing buildings and figuring out estimates of cost and job timelines. Technical skills of welding, electrical systems, plumbing systems, framing, and other carpentry skills are all taught in this class. Scholars will demonstrate leadership skills by being lead foremen over projects as they have repeated the class over 2 full years.

"We’ve made many different things but all in the construction area. I enjoy the physical, manual labor, and I want to work in construction after high school. It’s heavy work but fun."

JOSE, THOMAS JEFFERSON HS
Construction Foundations

aice GRAPHIC DESIGN

The scholar in this Cambridge course will build on the design skills and creative problem-solving acquired in prerequisite graphic design course(s). The scholar will define and implement the process a graphic designer uses to manage and produce a graphic design project, including: planning to meet real-time deadlines, research, thumbnails of problem solutions, team leadership, final presentations, modifications of work, and preparing computer files.

Coursework will demonstrate strong knowledge of Art Elements and Principles, as well as hands-on and computer solutions. These may include posters, brochures, package design, books, CDs, and movie covers to a defined and specific audience. Some illustrations will be included. Traditional art materials and Adobe Creative Suite computer software are the main media by which scholars will create original designs.

GRAPHIC DESIGN 1

This exploratory course provides scholars with a basic knowledge of the design process that meets higher education and industry standards. Scholars will apply the process to create visual solutions that communicate a specific message for a defined and specific audience. Scholars will work in teams to develop timelines and meet deadlines. This is a project-based curriculum; scholars design and produce a variety of printed items for the school using the same computer software commonly found in the Graphic Design Industry. Use of 3D software, 3D printing, and laser cutting technology to design and build logos and related 3-dimensional marketing objects in the classroom.

GRAPHIC DESIGN 2

The second-year scholar will build on the design skills acquired in Graphic Design 1. Higher-level skills include project team leadership, coordinating and managing multiple projects to meet real-time deadlines, and dealing with clients to market design skills in a competitive environment. Scholars will navigate through options to articulate to higher education and seek a job. Topics including research, resumes, portfolios, and job interviews are discussed and practiced. Use of 3D software, 3D printing, and laser cutting technology to design and build logos and related 3-dimensional marketing objects in the classroom.

COMMERCIAL PHOTOGRAPHY 1

This class is an introduction to photography through the digital camera. Scholars engage in hands-on projects with modern digital cameras while gaining an understanding of the basic principles of today’s photographic technology. Scholars will acquire basic image processing skills using Adobe Photoshop, emphasizing the techniques of basic color adjustments and resolution management.

COMMERCIAL PHOTOGRAPHY 2

In this class, scholars will understand the history and evolution of photography and the impact it has on world culture. They will apply literacy/career-based technology for exploration, research, creation, and reflection. Mostly, they will fully understand how to demonstrate proper exposure settings, use studio tools to adapt the lighting conditions, and apply software tools to process, enhance, and manipulate photographs through a strong digital workflow process. Students will produce high-quality images showcasing creative and unique compositions and highlighting their understanding of principles of design and elements of art.

AP 2D DESIGN PHOTOGRAPHY

Students create a portfolio of work to demonstrate inquiry through art and design and development of materials, processes, and ideas over the course of a year. Portfolios include works of art and design, process documentation, and written information about the work presented. In May, students submit portfolios for evaluation based on specific criteria, which include skillful synthesis of materials, processes, and ideas and sustained investigation through practice, experimentation, and revision, guided by questions. Students may choose to submit any or all of the AP Portfolio Exams.

College Course Equivalent: The AP 2-D Art and Design, AP 3-D Art and Design, and AP Drawing courses are designed to be the equivalent of a one-semester, introductory college course in 2-D art and design, 3-D art and design, and drawing, respectively.

AP 2D STUDIO ART AND DESIGN

Scholars will expand on their knowledge of art concepts and photographic techniques, creating a body of work using three aspects of portfolio development: quality, concentration, and breadth. Scholars will develop a mastery of 2D, photographic design and techniques, focusing on an individual plan of action, which demonstrates a range of abilities and versatility. This course emphasizes critical decision-making in the process of creating original, plagiarism-free work. The course culminates in the submission of an original portfolio for college review.

AP 3D STUDIO ART AND DESIGN

This program supports scholars in becoming inventive artistic scholars who contribute to visual culture through art-making. Scholars create 3D Design portfolios documenting their artistic ideas and practices to demonstrate conceptual and technical development over time. The 3D Design portfolio involves decision-making about how to use the elements and principles of art as they relate to the integration of depth, space, volume, and surface, either actual or virtual. The course culminates in the submission of an original portfolio for college review.

DESIGN & APPLIED ART 1

A beginning art course that builds skills in a variety of drawing, painting, and digital art techniques as well as core concepts and vocabulary of art and design. As a Career & Technical Education (CTE) course, learning will be related to design and art careers throughout the course. Principles of Design are used in every project, and scholars are encouraged to respond in written and spoken critiques that develop critical thinking and ownership. As this is a project-based CTE class, scholars will learn to pace their workload and work individually, as well as in industry-like teams.

DESIGN & APPLIED ART 2

This course expands upon the skills and knowledge learned in level 1 and introduces scholars to new media and techniques, such as printmaking, collage, mixed media, and innovative processes. This class gives scholars a more open format to pursue and express their creative ideas, styles, and artistic visions, with a great deal of scholar choice in the work they create. This course also functions as a pre- AP 2D Studio Art course and enables those scholars interested in taking AP 2D Design the ability to complete roughly half of the AP portfolio requirements.

As scholars are given more independence and freedom in this project-based course, they are expected to be motivated, focused, mature, and manage their time appropriately in order to meet project deadlines and build skills appropriate to visual arts career fields. Scholars are asked to develop personal style, theme, and idea development as well as build their portfolio and pitch presentations. Principles of Design are used in every project, and scholars are required to respond in written and spoken critiques that develop critical thinking and ownership.

*This intermediate-level art class is a continuation of Design and Applied Art 1.

"“I have a passion for art and I'd like to go study it in college, and it’s a really good class to take if you want to broaden your art experience."

ANNJOELINA, THOMAS JEFFERSON HS
IB Visual Arts

POTTERY 1

Scholars will develop skills and learn about making and using clay, slip, stains, glazes, and plaster, building clay forms by various hand-building techniques, decorating clay surfaces with slips, stains, and glazes, using tools and equipment, and loading, firing, and unloading kilns. Originality, good design, and craftsmanship are emphasized. Demonstrations and visual materials will explore functional and nonfunctional pottery art styles and their uses. Scholars will be exposed to job opportunities and clay art specialists.

POTTERY 2

Scholars expand skills and knowledge learned in Pottery 1 by learning advanced techniques in clay form building and decorating, throwing and trimming forms by using the potter's wheel, sculpting reliefs and in the round by using clay, and more about using materials, tools, and equipment. Emphasis will be placed on the scholar's individual work and originality of design as it relates to function. Careers in clay will be explored. Opportunities to view ceramic art, its application, dialogue with guest speakers, and the expanding fields of pottery will be emphasized.

*Pottery 1 is a prerequisite.

VIDEO PRODUCTION 1

Scholars in this class will learn the language of video production. Scholars will research ideas, write scripts, produce storyboards, videotape, and edit for a variety of projects. Articulation and communication are emphasized in this team-based class. After initial communication exercises, teams of scholars will develop and produce public service announcements and advertising pieces. Media literacy is discussed and incorporated into the assignments. Scholars learn the ways media can manipulate an audience to become savvy consumers. Because computer proficiency is now a necessary basic skill, this course is an excellent introduction to the computer and management skills needed to enter this rapidly changing field.

VIDEO PRODUCTION 2

Scholars will continue honing their video production skills through real-life applications. Scholars will be assigned weekly projects to help serve the Decatur community. They will receive assignments and meet with clients (staff and scholars) to produce advertisements, public service announcements, and short documentaries highlighting programs, scholars, and/or staff. Video 2 scholars will assist leadership with weekly announcements and shoot on location. Scholars will need a basic understanding of Adobe Premiere in order to go deeper into the software and have a basic grasp of camera and lighting concepts. Video Production 2 will help scholars problem-solve in real situations and communicate with clients and teammates. All scholars will be required to accumulate a reel at the end of the year. Video Production 2 is an ideal class for scholars interested in gaining experience in the field of video production.

*Video Production 1 is a prerequisite.

VIDEO PRODUCTION 3

Scholars learn a different aspect of video production. Instead of using primarily journalistic and documentary techniques, scholars will explore the world of fictional narrative filmmaking. Scholars go through the process of making a short film. They will write a script, audition actors, practice with actors, and plan their shoots. Then, they will shoot their films on location and then edit their pieces that will be screened at the annual Decatur Film Festival. Scholars may collaborate with the drama department for casting roles. Scholars will improve communication skills by working with groups and managing deadlines while improving their camera and editing skills.

*Video Production 1 or 2 is a prerequisite.

"“I’m checking out what I want to do in the future, and these classes are helping me. I enjoy drawing by hand, and the teacher helps us a lot. We even learn about job interviews, like how to prepare, dress, and everything."

ASRIN, TODD BEAMER HS
Visual Communications

VISUAL COMMUNICATIONS 2

Visual Communications 2 expands on the skills learned in Visual Communications 1. Students will create more sophisticated visual projects. Building on their knowledge from the previous year, they explore advanced concepts. Through challenging projects, they'll refine their creativity and problem-solving abilities and prepare for more specialized areas within visual communication, setting a stronger foundation for future careers in design and media.

"I plan to be a costume designer for theater or fashion. When you look at theater costumes, they’re very detailed and extravagant, and you have to think about a lot of stuff like the quick changes, and the set, and how to tie it all in."

ELEANOR, FEDERAL WAY HS
Technical Theater

AFJROTC—DRILL AND CEREMONIES

The Drill and Ceremonies course provides fundamental and in-depth instruction in Air Force drill and ceremonies. The fundamentals of Drill and Ceremonies are taught, to include cadet ability to perform the AFJROTC 30-command drill sequence. The Drill and Ceremonies course concentrates on the elements of military drill and describes individual and group precision movements, procedures for saluting, drill, ceremonies, reviews, parades, and development of command voice. Scholars are provided with detailed instructions on ceremonial performances and protocol for civilian and military events and have the opportunity to personally learn Air Force drill concepts and procedures. Though each class will follow an established lesson plan, most of the work is to be hands-on. This course is offered either 0- Hour or 9th-Hour. Scholars must be enrolled in a regular AFJROTC during the normal school day to take this class.

There is no military commitment for Air Force JROTC scholars.

AFJROTC-EXPLORING SPACE: THE HIGH FRONTIER

This course includes the latest information and teaching philosophies, incorporating 21st-century learning strategies. This course provides AFJROTC cadet-scholars with the latest information on exploring space and an introduction to cybersecurity and technology. It begins with early astronomy and the basic interest in the universe from the Greeks through the Renaissance and Enlightenment ages. AFJROTC cadet-scholars will be provided with an in-depth view of the solar system, including Earth, the Sun, the Moon, and the planets. The text also discusses the history of space travel and more modern space probes and robotics. AFJROTC cadet-scholars will examine the effects of space on the human body. The text also investigates the history of rockets, launch vehicles, and the coordinated systems required for a successful launch into space.

Finally, the text will offer a cybersecurity chapter that outlines the importance of cybersecurity in space and in daily life. AFJROTC cadet-scholars may participate in many field trips (military and civilian locations); AFJROTC clubs (rocketry, radio-controlled aircraft) and competitive teams (drill, color guard, robotics, academic challenge, and cyber security); various community service projects; a week-long cadet leadership course; and apply and compete for flight training and/or college scholarships. AFJROTC cadet-scholars must wear the US Air Force (USAF) uniform once per week and comply with USAF dress and grooming standards. Cadets will also receive significant leadership instruction, be involved in various leadership activities, and participate in a physical fitness program.

There is no military commitment for Air Force JROTC cadet-scholars.

AFJROTC—GLOBAL AWARENESS AND COLLEGE CAREER PREPARATION

This course is structured around the Twelve Domains of Culture model developed by the Air Force Culture and Language Center (AFCLC). The cultural domains in this model include family and kinship, political and social relations, sex and gender, economics and resources, sustenance and health, technology and material, religion and spirituality, aesthetics and recreation, language and communication, time and space, history and myth, and learning and knowledge. This course provides AFJROTC cadet-scholars with up-to-date information on exploring the concept of global awareness and the cultures of other regions throughout the world. It starts with an introduction of what global awareness is and the effects of technology on global culture. AFJROTC cadet-scholars are then taken on a journey around the world, through different cultures in the Middle East, Asia, Africa, Latin America, Europe, and Australia.

Finally, the AFJROTC cadetscholars will be provided cultural information regarding Canada and Mexico. The course contents have been correlated using the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy (CCSS.ELA-Literacy) in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects developed by the Common Core State Standards Initiative, and the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) Standards for Students (listed for technology activities). AFJROTC cadet-scholars may participate in many field trips (military and civilian locations); AFJROTC clubs (rocketry, radio-controlled aircraft) and competitive teams (drill, color guard, robotics, academic challenge, and cyber security); various community service projects; a week-long cadet leadership course; and apply and compete for flight training and/ or college scholarships. AFJROTC cadet-scholars must wear the US Air Force (USAF) uniform once per week and comply with USAF dress and grooming standards. Cadets will also receive significant leadership instruction, be involved in various leadership activities, and participate in a physical fitness program.

There is no military commitment for AFJROTC cadet-scholars.

AFJROTC—MILESTONES IN AVIATION HISTORY

This is an aviation history course focusing on the development of flight throughout the centuries. It starts with ancient civilizations and flight, then progresses through time to future developments in aerospace, with an introduction to cyber technologies. This textbook intends to bring alive the significant discoveries in flight. This book tells the story of why we are so proud of our Air Force heritage, laying the foundation for future AFJROTC aerospace science courses. Throughout the course, 21st-century learning is adopted with readings, video clips, hands-on, learner-centered activities, and chapter project-based learning opportunities. AFJROTC cadet-scholars may participate in many field trips (military and civilian locations); AFJROTC clubs (rocketry, radio-controlled aircraft) and competitive teams (drill, color guard, robotics, academic challenge, and cyber security); various community service projects; a weeklong cadet leadership course; and apply and compete for flight training and/or college scholarships. AFJROTC cadet-scholars must wear the US Air Force (USAF) uniform once per week and comply with USAF dress and grooming standards. Cadets will also receive significant leadership instruction, be involved in various leadership activities, and participate in a physical fitness program.

There is no military commitment for Air Force JROTC cadet-scholars.

AFJROTC—MANAGEMENT OF THE CADET CORPS

This course is designed as a practicum for more experienced AFJROTC cadet-scholars who hold a cadet leadership position. This hands-on experience allows AFJROTC cadets to put theories of previous leadership courses into practice. Planning, organizing, coordinating, directing, controlling, and decision-making will be done by these cadets and subordinates. They will put into practice their communication, decision-making, personal interaction, managerial, and organizational skills. AFJROTC cadet-scholars may participate in many field trips (military and civilian locations); AFJROTC clubs (rocketry, radio-controlled aircraft) and competitive teams (drill, color guard, robotics, academic challenge, and cyber security); various community service projects; a week-long cadet leadership course; and apply and compete for flight training and/ or college scholarships.

AFJROTC cadet-scholars must wear the US Air Force (USAF) uniform once per week and comply with USAF dress and grooming standards. Cadets will also receive significant leadership instruction, be involved in various leadership activities, and participate in a physical fitness program.

There is no military commitment for Air Force JROTC cadet-scholars.

AFJROTC—SCIENCE OF FLIGHT: A GETAWAY TO NEW HORIZONS

This introductory course focuses on how airplanes fly, how weather conditions affect flight, aviation's effects on the human body, and flight navigation. The course is designed to complement materials taught in math, physics, and other science-related courses and is aligned with the National Science Education Standards, the Math Standards and Expectations, and the ISTE National Educational Technology Standards for Students. Cadet-scholars will have many opportunities to sharpen their reading and writing skills, analyze flight controls and their relation to the laws of motion and flight. Cadet scholars may incorporate inactive, online applications, including a flight simulator, to apply and enhance their flight skills.

AFJROTC cadet-scholars may participate in many field trips (military and civilian locations); AFJROTC clubs (rocketry, radio-controlled aircraft) and competitive teams (drill, color guard, robotics, academic challenge, and cyber security); various community service projects; a week-long cadet leadership course; and apply and compete for flight training and/or college scholarships. AFJROTC cadet-scholars must wear the US Air Force (USAF) uniform once per week and comply with USAF dress and grooming standards. Cadets will also receive significant leadership instruction, be involved in various leadership activities, and participate in a physical fitness program.

There is no military commitment for Air Force JROTC cadet-scholars.

AFJROTC—SURVIVAL

This course provides instruction and training in skills, knowledge, and attitudes necessary to successfully perform fundamental tasks needed for survival. Survival also presents “good to know†information that would be useful in any situation. Throughout the course, there are readings, videos, a lot of hands-on activities, and in-text and scholar workbook exercises to guide the reinforcement of the materials.

AFJROTC cadet-scholars may participate in many field trips (military and civilian locations); AFJROTC clubs (rocketry, radio-controlled aircraft) and competitive teams (drill, color guard, robotics, academic challenge, and cyber security); various community service projects; a week-long cadet leadership course; and apply and compete for flight training and/ or college scholarships. AFJROTC cadet-scholars must wear the US Air Force (USAF) uniform once per week and comply with USAF dress and grooming standards. Cadets will also receive significant leadership instruction, be involved in various leadership activities, and participate in a physical fitness program.

There is no military commitment for Air Force JROTC cadet-scholars.

FORENSIC SCIENCE

Forensic science is the application of basic biological, chemical and physical science principles and technological practices to the purposes of justice in the study of criminal and civil issues. Major themes of study in this course are jurisprudence, crime scene investigation, fingerprints, hair, fibers, trace evidence, DNA, ballistics, toolmarks, arson, criminal profiling and psychology, pathology, blood spatter analysis, and anthropology.

"I’ve learned a lot about different woods and how they go together, a lot of problem solving, how to use tools, different chisels, how to put a wall together, a cabinet. But I’ve also learned more than just that; I’ve learned good life skills and safety, which is very important."

RYAN, THOMAS JEFFERSON HS
Cabinet Making and Millwork

"I wanteed to join Woodworking because I wanted to try and make my own things, I wanted to learn how to make my own furniture."

MYRKA, THOMAS JEFFERSON HS
Woodworking

GENERAL MECHANICS

This introductory course is to prepare students for one of Decatur's three pathways. These include Automotive, Heavy Diesel, and Fabrication. This Course introduces scholars to general mechanical principles, shop safety, and tools and equipment. These hands-on lab activities based on theory and principle include areas of tire services, automotive maintenance, fluid services, and vehicle parts/system identification. This course also explores the careers and history of all three specialized pathways. STEM principles and standards are incorporated into all aspects of this course.

AUTOMOTIVE MECHANICS

This STEM class offers comprehensive coverage of the ASE Automotive Brakes, Steering, and Suspension content area. Scholars will study all types of automotive brake systems, including hybrid regenerative braking. Scholars will practice all types of brake system repair, including hydraulic system repair and diagnosis. Scholars will study all types of automotive suspension systems. Scholars will practice all types of automotive steering and suspension repair procedures and diagnoses. STEM principles and standards are incorporated into all aspects of this course.

heavy diesel MECHANICS

This course is cultivated and designed to prepare students for a career in heavy diesel. This course is in partnership with PAPE/Kenworth. Completion of this course may lead to internship opportunities. Areas of specialty include wheels/tires, brakes, lubrication and fluids, and general systems/components knowledge. STEM Principles and standards are incorporated into all aspects of this course.

HEAVY DIESEL SPECIALTY

Participating scholars will gain real-world experience in the skilled trades. This course focuses on real-world training and hands-on experience with our partner PAPE/Kenworth. Completion of the Apprentice Program ensures higher skill attainment and further increases job opportunities and advancement. This program follows a hybrid model, ensuring content knowledge acquisition and practice.

CORE PLUS AUTOMOTIVE FABRICATION

This course is designed to prepare students for metalworking and machining with an automotive focus. Safety, equipment practices, drilling, riveting, painting, welding, and material modification are areas of focus. This course is partnered with Boeing and aligns with Boeing's standards and practices. The Boeing aligned course prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to fabricate and modify materials to support other manufacturing activities. STEM principles and standards are incorporated into all aspects of this course.