THE PROMISE OF A FRESH START SEQUOIA HIGH SCHOOL "The past is your past, the future is yours to make."
ACADEMICS
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
CORE CLASSES
ELECTIVES
ENGLISH
American Literature
American Literature is designed for students performing below grade level and or who need credit accrual after two years of high school English. This non-college preparatory class focuses on reading and responding to a variety of literature orally and in writing. Sheltered instruction techniques are used to ensure access to information presented and materials used during instruction. Emphasis is placed on understanding and interpreting material through the reading and writing process. The standards addressed are extensions of the knowledge and skills previously targeted in the earlier grades and highlight interrelationships among the different domains of language arts: reading writing, written and oral English-language conventions.
English 2, 3 & 4
English 2 (C)/ English 3 (C) / English 4 (C) are designed for students who have not passed the English/Language Arts section of the California High School Exit Exam. This non-college preparatory class focuses on reading comprehension and responding both orally and in writing, along with multiple choice assessments to written material and or illustrated material. Course work reviews basic reading and writing concepts and skills needed to succeed in passing the CAHSEE. The class also gives support for mastering key content. Course work includes multiple opportunities to apply learned skills to the type of questions and prompts presented on the California High School Exit Exam (CAHSEE).
World Literature
World literature/advanced composition is designed to offer an overview of literature from cultures throughout the world. This course will also focus on higher level thinking skills and college level writing. The course is aligned to California English/Language Arts Content Standards for grades 11 and 12 and is matched to VUSD Essential Standards and Benchmarks. The course meets graduation requirements for the fourth year of English.
MATH
Elementary Statistics
Entry-level statistics. This is an introduction to the study of probability, interpretation of data, and fundamental statistical problem solving.
Geometry
This course in basic geometry is concerned with the properties and relations of points, lines, surfaces, and solids.
Algebra
Symbolic reasoning and calculations with symbols are central in algebra. Through the study of algebra, a student develops an understanding of the symbolic language of mathematics and the sciences.
SCIENCE
SOCIAL STUDIES
Civics
Students in grade twelve pursue a deeper understanding of the institutions of American government. They compare systems of government in the world today and analyze the history and changing interpretations of the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the current state of the legislative, executive, and judiciary branches of government.
Economics
Students in grade twelve learn fundamental economic concepts, applying the tools (graphs, statistics, equations) from other subject areas to the understanding of operations and institutions of economic systems. Studied in a historic context are the basic economic principles of micro- and macroeconomics, international economics, comparative economic systems, measurement, and methods.
U.S. History
Study the major turning points in American history in the twentieth century including changes in politics, society, technology, and global affairs. Students develop an understanding of the role of the citizen within the state and that our rights under the U.S. Constitution are a precious inheritance that depends on an educated citizenry for their preservation and protection.
World History
The study of major turning points that shaped the modern world, from the late eighteenth century through the present. Students develop an understanding of current world issues and events in order to understand international relations from a variety of perspectives.
Accelerated Learning Academy (ALA)
The Sequoia High School Accelerated Learning Academy (ALA) provides students the opportunity to engage curricular studies to advance their progress towards successful graduation and engage in behavioral intervention supports. ALA also provides students with essential job readiness preparation.
Students and parents may wish to explore ALA as an option when students are transitioning to or from Sequoia High School. ALA offers those students very near the completion of their high school career a shortened day in which to finish their studies. This is particularly helpful to students who must work or are beginning preparation for post-secondary studies. ALA also serves students transitioning into Sequoia from alternative education settings. ALA prepares students for a more traditional academic setting by offering AVID curriculum while completing core academic studies. ALA also provides behavioral interventions in the areas of drug counseling, anger management, life skills, conflict resolution, health and hygiene awareness, and gang awareness. Students enrolled in ALA may be required to complete community service as part of their studies. Students enrolled in ALA will complete a Job Readiness Portfolio and an Exit Interview as a culminating project in addition to their regular studies and requirements.
Associated Student Body (ASB Leadership)
The ASB class focuses on students developing a greater understanding of the skills it takes to be a successful leader and effective teen in today's world. Students are given the opportunity for personal growth, community involvement and school improvement.
Careers With Children
This is a year long vocational-based class about children and their age appropriate behaviors. This course includes CPR training, first aid training, and on the job training in a daycare facility. The focus of the class is learning to work with children in a variety of careers.
Child Care Option
The infant and toddler programs at Sequoia High School provide quality, caring child care and developmental enrichment for the children of teen parents who attend Visalia Unified High Schools. Infants may be enrolled as early as 4 weeks of age and remain in our program until they begin Kindergarten. Depending on home location and school choice, it is often possible for the teen parent and child to receive bus transportation through Visalia Unified.
The child care programs at Sequoia High School allow teen parents to attend the school that best meets their needs as well as the needs of their child. The best option for each student is considered, whether that means continuing at their Home School or enrolling at Sequoia High School. Our goal for teen parents is that they achieve a high school diploma, move toward career preparation, and receive support and assistance in their role as parents.
Please contact us to discover if our infant and toddler programs are the best next step for you and your child.
Choir
Choir is designed to improve knowledge about reading music and to improve a student's singing abilities. We have two concerts a year; holiday and spring concerts. Our repertoire includes Pop, Broadway, Foreign Language, Latin, and American Folk songs.
On Your Own
This class is designed to help students with life skills for when they move out "on their own".
Areas of food instruction include basic cooking, breakfast, main dishes, Thanksgiving dinner, and desserts. Other subjects taught may include housing, banking, credit, and social skills.
Orientation
This class is based on AVID student success skills. Every new student to Sequoia receives a free binder with supplies that will start the student on the right track to become a more successful student. The class includes strategies to help each student catch up on credits and to get back on the path to graduate.
Photography
This is an entry-level yearlong course centered on the principles of photography using digital cameras and Adobe PhotoShop software.
World Language
World Languages Lab provides a unique opportunity for students to acquire a second language through on-line instruction in a language of the student’s choice. Direct instruction takes place through Rosetta Stone Classroom, an interactive on-line language learning instructional program. Instruction systematically builds toward the language-learning goals of the student. Emphasis is placed on auditory comprehension, speech production, reading comprehension, and composition. Grammar and vocabulary are taught through a “dynamic immersion” approach that simulates a real-life immersion experience. Active participation is central to success. Success in the class requires self-motivation and the ability to work independently, although the nature of a lab experience allows for in-class support from the instructor and peers. Achievement and progress is monitored by the lab instructor. This program may be accessed from home as well as in the classroom.
Studio Arts
This 2-D art class includes drawing, painting, mixed media, cartooning, and India ink. Art history is part of a computer project that students design. This class satisfies fine arts credit for graduation.
American Literature
American Literature is designed for students performing below grade level and or who need credit accrual after two years of high school English. This non-college preparatory class focuses on reading and responding to a variety of literature orally and in writing. Sheltered instruction techniques are used to ensure access to information presented and materials used during instruction. Emphasis is placed on understanding and interpreting material through the reading and writing process. The standards addressed are extensions of the knowledge and skills previously targeted in the earlier grades and highlight interrelationships among the different domains of language arts: reading writing, written and oral English-language conventions.
English 2, 3 & 4
English 2 (C)/ English 3 (C) / English 4 (C) are designed for students who have not passed the English/Language Arts section of the California High School Exit Exam. This non-college preparatory class focuses on reading comprehension and responding both orally and in writing, along with multiple choice assessments to written material and or illustrated material. Course work reviews basic reading and writing concepts and skills needed to succeed in passing the CAHSEE. The class also gives support for mastering key content. Course work includes multiple opportunities to apply learned skills to the type of questions and prompts presented on the California High School Exit Exam (CAHSEE).
World Literature
World literature/advanced composition is designed to offer an overview of literature from cultures throughout the world. This course will also focus on higher level thinking skills and college level writing. The course is aligned to California English/Language Arts Content Standards for grades 11 and 12 and is matched to VUSD Essential Standards and Benchmarks. The course meets graduation requirements for the fourth year of English.
MATH
Elementary Statistics
Entry-level statistics. This is an introduction to the study of probability, interpretation of data, and fundamental statistical problem solving.
Geometry
This course in basic geometry is concerned with the properties and relations of points, lines, surfaces, and solids.
Algebra
Symbolic reasoning and calculations with symbols are central in algebra. Through the study of algebra, a student develops an understanding of the symbolic language of mathematics and the sciences.
SCIENCE
SOCIAL STUDIES
Civics
Students in grade twelve pursue a deeper understanding of the institutions of American government. They compare systems of government in the world today and analyze the history and changing interpretations of the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the current state of the legislative, executive, and judiciary branches of government.
Economics
Students in grade twelve learn fundamental economic concepts, applying the tools (graphs, statistics, equations) from other subject areas to the understanding of operations and institutions of economic systems. Studied in a historic context are the basic economic principles of micro- and macroeconomics, international economics, comparative economic systems, measurement, and methods.
U.S. History
Study the major turning points in American history in the twentieth century including changes in politics, society, technology, and global affairs. Students develop an understanding of the role of the citizen within the state and that our rights under the U.S. Constitution are a precious inheritance that depends on an educated citizenry for their preservation and protection.
World History
The study of major turning points that shaped the modern world, from the late eighteenth century through the present. Students develop an understanding of current world issues and events in order to understand international relations from a variety of perspectives.
Accelerated Learning Academy (ALA)
The Sequoia High School Accelerated Learning Academy (ALA) provides students the opportunity to engage curricular studies to advance their progress towards successful graduation and engage in behavioral intervention supports. ALA also provides students with essential job readiness preparation.
Students and parents may wish to explore ALA as an option when students are transitioning to or from Sequoia High School. ALA offers those students very near the completion of their high school career a shortened day in which to finish their studies. This is particularly helpful to students who must work or are beginning preparation for post-secondary studies. ALA also serves students transitioning into Sequoia from alternative education settings. ALA prepares students for a more traditional academic setting by offering AVID curriculum while completing core academic studies. ALA also provides behavioral interventions in the areas of drug counseling, anger management, life skills, conflict resolution, health and hygiene awareness, and gang awareness. Students enrolled in ALA may be required to complete community service as part of their studies. Students enrolled in ALA will complete a Job Readiness Portfolio and an Exit Interview as a culminating project in addition to their regular studies and requirements.
Associated Student Body (ASB Leadership)
The ASB class focuses on students developing a greater understanding of the skills it takes to be a successful leader and effective teen in today's world. Students are given the opportunity for personal growth, community involvement and school improvement.
Careers With Children
This is a year long vocational-based class about children and their age appropriate behaviors. This course includes CPR training, first aid training, and on the job training in a daycare facility. The focus of the class is learning to work with children in a variety of careers.
Child Care Option
The infant and toddler programs at Sequoia High School provide quality, caring child care and developmental enrichment for the children of teen parents who attend Visalia Unified High Schools. Infants may be enrolled as early as 4 weeks of age and remain in our program until they begin Kindergarten. Depending on home location and school choice, it is often possible for the teen parent and child to receive bus transportation through Visalia Unified.
The child care programs at Sequoia High School allow teen parents to attend the school that best meets their needs as well as the needs of their child. The best option for each student is considered, whether that means continuing at their Home School or enrolling at Sequoia High School. Our goal for teen parents is that they achieve a high school diploma, move toward career preparation, and receive support and assistance in their role as parents.
Please contact us to discover if our infant and toddler programs are the best next step for you and your child.
Choir
Choir is designed to improve knowledge about reading music and to improve a student's singing abilities. We have two concerts a year; holiday and spring concerts. Our repertoire includes Pop, Broadway, Foreign Language, Latin, and American Folk songs.
On Your Own
This class is designed to help students with life skills for when they move out "on their own".
Areas of food instruction include basic cooking, breakfast, main dishes, Thanksgiving dinner, and desserts. Other subjects taught may include housing, banking, credit, and social skills.
Orientation
This class is based on AVID student success skills. Every new student to Sequoia receives a free binder with supplies that will start the student on the right track to become a more successful student. The class includes strategies to help each student catch up on credits and to get back on the path to graduate.
Photography
This is an entry-level yearlong course centered on the principles of photography using digital cameras and Adobe PhotoShop software.
World Language
World Languages Lab provides a unique opportunity for students to acquire a second language through on-line instruction in a language of the student’s choice. Direct instruction takes place through Rosetta Stone Classroom, an interactive on-line language learning instructional program. Instruction systematically builds toward the language-learning goals of the student. Emphasis is placed on auditory comprehension, speech production, reading comprehension, and composition. Grammar and vocabulary are taught through a “dynamic immersion” approach that simulates a real-life immersion experience. Active participation is central to success. Success in the class requires self-motivation and the ability to work independently, although the nature of a lab experience allows for in-class support from the instructor and peers. Achievement and progress is monitored by the lab instructor. This program may be accessed from home as well as in the classroom.
Studio Arts
This 2-D art class includes drawing, painting, mixed media, cartooning, and India ink. Art history is part of a computer project that students design. This class satisfies fine arts credit for graduation.
"Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world".
-- Nelson Mandela
-- Nelson Mandela
"Intelligence plus character -- that is the goal of true education".
--Martin Luther King, Jr.
--Martin Luther King, Jr.
“The educated differ from the uneducated as much as the living differ from the dead.”
--Aristotle
--Aristotle
“When you assess your own life, consider it with the eye of a gardener. Underneath the surface lies rich, fertile soil waiting to nurture the seeds you sow. Even more than you can imagine will grow there if given a chance.”
― Steve Goodier
― Steve Goodier
Physical Earth Science…learning about ourselves, our planet, and our place in the universe.
Over the course of the academic year we will explore our earth and its unique properties, processes, and position in the universe. Students will develop and demonstrate an understanding of the following essential standard topics.
CALIFORNIA GEOLOGY: The geology of California as it impacts the state’s wealth of natural resources, as well as natural hazards.
PLATE TECTONICS AND EARTH HISTORY: Dynamic earth processes, including plate tectonics and biogeochemical processes, their operation over geologic time, and the resulting changes in patterns of land, sea, and mountains on the earth’s surface.
CLIMATOLOGY: The energy budget of the earth, differential heating of the earth’s surface, atmospheric effects of the sun, wind, and ocean currents, and climate patterns.
ASTRONOMY: The earth’s place in the solar system, the structure and scale solar system, and the changes in stars, galaxies, and the universe that occur over time.
Biological Science…learning about ourselves and our place on a living planet...
Over the course of the academic year we will explore the fundamental processes, functions, and interactions characteristic of cells. We will also explore body systems, heredity, evolution, diversity, and interaction in the living world. Students will develop and demonstrate understanding of the following essential standards.
CELLS AND THEIR PROCESSES: The fundamental processes of all living things depend on a variety of specialized cell structures and chemical processes. (1st and 5th sessions)
PROTEIN SYNTHESIS, GENETICS, AND HEREDITY: Protein synthesis is the basis of growth and development. Heredity is determined by instructions encoded in DNA, and these sequences can be affected by mutation and sexual reproduction. (2nd and 6th sessions)
EVOLUTION: Evolution is the result of genetic changes that occur due to natural selection. (3rd semester)
ECOLOGY: Stability in an ecosystem is a balance between many competing factors. (4th semester)
Over the course of the academic year we will explore our earth and its unique properties, processes, and position in the universe. Students will develop and demonstrate an understanding of the following essential standard topics.
CALIFORNIA GEOLOGY: The geology of California as it impacts the state’s wealth of natural resources, as well as natural hazards.
PLATE TECTONICS AND EARTH HISTORY: Dynamic earth processes, including plate tectonics and biogeochemical processes, their operation over geologic time, and the resulting changes in patterns of land, sea, and mountains on the earth’s surface.
CLIMATOLOGY: The energy budget of the earth, differential heating of the earth’s surface, atmospheric effects of the sun, wind, and ocean currents, and climate patterns.
ASTRONOMY: The earth’s place in the solar system, the structure and scale solar system, and the changes in stars, galaxies, and the universe that occur over time.
Biological Science…learning about ourselves and our place on a living planet...
Over the course of the academic year we will explore the fundamental processes, functions, and interactions characteristic of cells. We will also explore body systems, heredity, evolution, diversity, and interaction in the living world. Students will develop and demonstrate understanding of the following essential standards.
CELLS AND THEIR PROCESSES: The fundamental processes of all living things depend on a variety of specialized cell structures and chemical processes. (1st and 5th sessions)
PROTEIN SYNTHESIS, GENETICS, AND HEREDITY: Protein synthesis is the basis of growth and development. Heredity is determined by instructions encoded in DNA, and these sequences can be affected by mutation and sexual reproduction. (2nd and 6th sessions)
EVOLUTION: Evolution is the result of genetic changes that occur due to natural selection. (3rd semester)
ECOLOGY: Stability in an ecosystem is a balance between many competing factors. (4th semester)
