Academics
Art/Music/Drama
Business Education
Career and Tech Education (CTE)
ELL Department
English/Language Arts
Family and Consumer Science
Mathematics Department
Physical Education
Science Department
Social Studies
Special Education
World Language
Access the entire course catalog
Art/Music/Drama
Art
Advanced Art
Ceramics
Drama I
Advanced Drama
Drum Line
Choir
Pep band
Jazz Lab
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Business Education
Computer Applications I is a technology class in the Business Department designed to introduce current business software applications and tools that students will use for their high school and future college and career success. Software and skills include: Office 2007 –word processing, spreadsheets, graphics, presentation applications, databases, and desktop publishing. In addition, students are introduced to Web Design, research on the Internet, and “life online” safety and tools. Class is available for Tech Prep credit with the Seattle Community College system.
Web pages have evolved from simple documents with text and a few graphics to sophisticated multimedia vehicles. Web Design is a highly creative process supported by strong technical expertise. Web Page 1 introduces students to: basic history of the Internet; concepts such as bandwidth, browser, and network capabilities; developing Web pages in html, xhtml, and CSS, then moving to the Adobe/Macromedia Dreamweaver suite; and using graphics and multimedia appropriately as tools to further enhance customer needs. Students will develop Web pages for themselves and with clients in mind. Class is available for Tech Prep credit with the Seattle Community College system.
Marketing I with a Sports Marketing emphasis is the first course in the Marketing sequence. Marketing is a process of planning, pricing, promoting, selling and distributing ideas, goods or services to create exchanges that satisfy customers. Through the study of marketing, students will realize how marketing affects their lives and actions, and how companies create markets. Students will also have a better understanding of how the American economic system works and what role marketing plays in the free enterprise system.
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Career and Tech Education (CTE)
The CWEST program is intended for students who want to find out about careers in the skilled trades like carpentry, electrical, plumbing, welding, concrete, etc. As a course outcome, the student will know what is expected of them on a jobsite so they can be successful if they choose later to become an apprentice in one of the trades. They will know that there will be adults who will welcome them and train them even though the student starts out with no skills in the craft. They will be able to work safely in all kinds of worksites because they will be able to recognize hazards and ask the right questions to deal with them.
Who should take CWEST:
We want students who have the maturity to work independently outside of school supervision. Who have the ability to show up on time and show up every day. No other skills are necessary except the desire to learn about construction in the real world.
The course is open to all Seattle schools juniors and seniors. Girls are encouraged to apply.
Credits:
2 credits of .5 each will be given for successful completion.
Class schedule:
Daily 12:45 to 2:30 at Rainier Beach High School
After 2 weeks basic safety and orientation, Students will be on jobsites Tuesday and Thursday from 12:30 to 3:30.
ELL Department
In accordance with federal, state and local guidelines, the ELL department provide access to appropriate educational opportunities for all eligible students and their families which enable them to successfully participate in the mainstream environment – academically, culturally, socially and economically.
The ELL (English Language Learners) department at Rainier Beach High School serves the needs of students who are new to the United States. It also addresses the needs of American-born students whose first spoken language was not English.
The goal of the program is to develop English language proficiency while maintaining academics in students who have limited speaking, listening, reading and writing skills. A student's initial eligibility is determined by the results of the Washington Language Proficiency Test (WLPT-II Placement Test), then followed by the annual (WLPT) assessment to establish continued eligibility.
Through the course of the school year, the ELL Department offers classes utilizing the "Content-Based ESL/Sheltered English" Model. Language Arts classes are offered by proficiency level from Beginning to Transitional level. Students are taught entirely in English through ELL techniques while students gain the knowledge and skills in a specific content area (i.e. General Science, U.S. History, Health, World History, etc.)
RBHS offers the following ELL classes:
Language Arts 9A, 9B, 10A, 10B, 11A, 11B, 12A (Senior Project)
World History I. II, III
United States History 11A & 11B
American Government
Washington State History
General Science 1 & 2
Health
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English/Language Arts
LA 11A and B
This course is a survey of American Literature, but it also seeks to represent the diverse perspectives and voices of what it is to be "American." Attention is paid to representing both minority and women writers. Varieties of texts, including novels, plays, non-fiction and poetry seek to expose students to historical and literary time periods while approaching these from a relevant perspective. Intensive writing exercises aim to allow students to respond, evaluate, analyze and apply new skills and information.
AP LA 11A and B
This advanced course in American Literature emphasizes writing, speaking, listening and reading at an elevated level and pace. Students complete writing assignments for every unit as well as regularly participate in discussions and debates that fuel our critical understanding. Novels, plays, poetry, non-fiction articles and other genres help bridge the literary and/or historical time period studied to our modern world. Development of each students' skills is focused on through intensive writing. In addition to the development writing skills, there is an emphasis on preparing these students for college-level literature classes. Student responsibility for learning is critical to success in this AP class.
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Family and Consumer Science
Parents are always welcomed to contact either teacher about concerns, suggestions or questions regarding the FCS program at RB. We welcome them to visit our classrooms. Since we are always striving to make this program as current and relevant to our students' lives, we value your suggestions and input.
Nutrition/Wellness (old Nutrition/Foods):
Grades: 9 - 12
Prerequisite: None
Nutrition and Foods is a specialized vocational course which prepares the students for the occupation of homemaking by providing information about planning, management and meal preparation, nutrition, multi-cultural foods, food economics, and world food issues. Included in this course are opportunities to explore global and cultural influences, careers and FCCLA/leadership. This course satisfies an occupational education credit for graduation.
Topics covered in this class will include the following:
- The Importance of Food, our food choices and what affects them.
- Nutrition and You: nutritional needs, healthy choices, and eating disorders
- Food Safety and Sanitation: food-borne illness and good health
- Management of Food: kitchen utensils, measuring skills, using recipes, and cooking skills
- Preparation of Food: cooking basics, breads, cereal products, eggs, meat/poultry, fruit/vegetables, salads
Foods of the World: regional US and various world cuisines
ProStart Culinary Arts (Year One):
Grades: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: None
Note: Foods/Nutrition helpful
ProStart Culinary Arts is a two-year program designed for students interested in pursuing a culinary/food service career. This program uses curriculum provided by the National Restaurant Association. Upon completion of the program, successful graduates may work in restaurants, hotel dining rooms, cafeterias, hospital kitchens or other food service careers, or they may continue their education in the commercial food service field at a community college or vocational-technical institute. Also included are opportunities to explore global and cultural influences, careers, and FCCLA/leadership. This course satisfies an occupational education credit for graduation.
First Year ProStart covers a variety of topics and issues found in the commercial food world. Among topics to be covered will be: preparation of Resumes, Cover Letters and work place skills, Food Safety and Sanitation and Knife Skills. Additional topics will include: Career Preparation, Customer Relations, Food Safety, Work place Safety, Kitchen Basics, Food Service Equipment, Nutrition, Breakfast and Sandwiches, Working with People, Salads and Garnishes, Business Math, Fruits and Vegetables, and Food Service Costs. Students will also be able to participate in Catering events and are encouraged to compete in the annual High School Invitational Competition. Every student is REQUIRED TO PASS THE FOOD WORKER’S PERMIT EXAM.
ProStart Culinary Arts (Year Two):
Grades: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: None
Note: Foods/Nutrition and Year One ProStart helpful
ProStart Culinary Arts is a two-year program designed for students interested in pursuing a culinary/food service career. This program uses curriculum provided by the National Restaurant Association. Upon completion of the program, successful graduates may work in restaurants, hotel dining rooms, cafeterias, hospital kitchens or other food service careers, or they may continue their education in the commercial food service field at a community college or vocational-technical institute. Also included are opportunities to explore global and cultural influences, careers, and FCCLA/leadership. This course satisfies an occupational education credit for graduation.
Second Year ProStart covers a variety of topics and issues found in the commercial food world. Among topics to be covered will be: Review of Year One focusing on Resumes and work place skills, Food Safety and Sanitation and Knife Skills. Additional topics will include: Stocks, Soups and Sauces; Art of Service; Communication with Customers; History of Food Service; Tourism and Retail; Potatoes and Grains; Marketing and the Menu; Desserts and Baked Goods; Purchasing and Inventory Control; Meat, Poultry and Seafood; Standard Accounting Practices; and the Lodging Industry and a Restaurant Marketing Project. Students will also be able to participate in Catering events and are encouraged to compete in the annual High School Invitational Competition. Every student is REQUIRED TO PASS THE FOOD WORKER’S PERMIT EXAM.
Family Health:
Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12
One semester course on the structure and function of the human body, C.P.R., and first aid, human sexuality, personality and mental health, self image, values and decision making, consumer health, cancer disease, death and dying. Included in this course are opportunities to explore global and cultural influences, careers and FCCLA/leadership. This course satisfies an occupational education or Health credit for graduation.
Nutrition/Fitness:
Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12
This is a specialized vocational course that deals with issues and topics related to planning, management, nutrition and physical fitness. The class consists of two days in the classroom and three days of the week in the gym. This is not a food preparation class. Included in this course are opportunities to explore global and cultural influences, careers and FCCLA/leadership. This course satisfies an occupational education or PE credit for graduation.
Apparel/Textiles (Runway):
Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12
Apparel/Textiles is a specialized vocational one year course for students interested in fashion design and clothing construction/sewing. Students will learn basic sewing skills/techniques and will be encouraged to produce their own garments. The course will culminate with a runway fashion show finale produced by the students and featuring student designs. Included in this course are opportunities to explore global and cultural influences, careers and FCCLA/leadership. This course satisfies an occupational education credit for graduation.
The purpose of Family and Consumer Science (FCS) classes is to help our students to be prepared to go out into the world and be good citizens. We currently offer several preparatory classes which include: Family Health (which meets graduation requirements for Health), Independent Living, Foods and Nutrition (introductory class for cooking and nutrition), ProStart/Culinary Arts (advanced professional foods class geared for career path) and Child Development.
FCS classes are open to all students at all grade levels. It would be preferable for students to take Foods and Nutrition before taking ProStart, however, there are no prerequisites for any of the classes. Our classes also provide many leadership opportunities which includes FCCLA, plus opportunities to earn service learning hours.
FCS' most unique feature is our ProStart/Culinary Arts program. This is a two year course which is geared at the professional level in food service. It prepares students for entering careers in the world of food. The curriculum is put together by the National Restaurant Association. It includes opportunities for paid internship, college credits, and scholarships. The highlight of the year is going to Hospitality Invitational Competition in the spring. RB students compete with other high schools from all over Washington state in a Knowledge Bowl, Hot Foods, and Restaurant Management events. It's like our own "Iron Chef" competition! If they win, they go onto national competition.
Mathematics Department
Algebra A/B
Using Key Curriculum Press Discovering Algebra is taught first semester, and upon successful completion, students continue to Algebra B second semester. This course focuses mainly on algebraic, proportional reasoning, graphing, and problem solving skills. It is expected that all 9th grade students enroll in Algebra A/B (or higher) upon entry to high school. An additional Algebra Lab class is also available for support or enrichment.
Geometry A/B
This course, using Key Curriculum Press Discovering Geometry follows successful completion of Algebra A/B. Geometry A is taught first semester, and Geometry B second semester. This course focuses mainly on logical thinking, geometric properties, algebra, coordinate geometry, and problem solving skills. In this course, students continue developing skills introduced in Algebra also, in preparation for the HSPE (State Assessment Test) and future math courses. An additional Geometry Lab class is also available for support or enrichment.
Honors Geometry A/B
This course is primarily for 9th graders who completed Algebra in middle school. Students (10th/11th grades) who exhibited high achievement in Algebra(A or high B average) may also be enrolled. It is similar in content to the Geometry A/B course, with a faster pace and more topics covered. Students who begin Honors Geometry in 9th grade and successfully complete 4 years of honors math will reach the highest level of high school math (Calculus) in their senior year. Same text Geometry A/B.
Algebra 2 A/B
This course follows successful completion of Geometry A/B. In this class, most of the focus is on advanced algebra in preparation for advanced math courses (pre-calculus) and/or college level mathematics. This course is required for attendance at a 4-year university. Text used is Key Curriculum Press Discovering Advanced Algebra.
Algebra 2 Honors A/B
This course, similar in content to Algebra 2 A/B, follows successful completion of Geometry Honors A/B or high achievement and teacher recommendation following Geometry A/B (non honors). Students continue to Pre-calculus. Same text as Algebra 2.
Pre-calculus A/B
This year long course follows successful completion of Algebra 2 A/B or Algebra 2 A/B Honors. The focus is mainly on advanced mathematical topics, including trigonometry, exponential and logarithmic functions, circle geometry, and advanced algebra. The course is designed to be a precursor to Calculus, but may also be completed as a 4th year mathematics course for seniors. Text used is Key Curriculum Press (Foerster)Pre-Calculus.
AP Calculus
This class follows successful completion of Pre-Calculus, and is an advanced placement Calculus A/B course. All students are expected to take the AP exam in the spring for possible college credit. Calculus topics covered include limits, derivatives, and integrals. Text used is Key Curriculum Press (Foerster) Calculus.
AP Statistics
This class can be taken after successful completion of Geometry A/B, but it is recommended students take through Algebra 2 A/B first to meet college requirements. It is a 1 semester college statistics course spread over one school year with the goal of preparing students to successfully complete the AP statistics exam given in May. Text used is Practice of Statistics by Yates, Moore, Starnes.
MESA: MESA (Math, Engineering and Science Achievement) is offered through the math department as a second semester elective for 10th graders only. In MESA, students learn and apply math, science, and engineering concepts through hands on projects, research, field trips, and other class activities. The course also focuses on study skills and college readiness.
Algebra Lab
This support class, offered currently both after school and during the day, is designed to help students be more successful in their regular Algebra A/B class. Students focus on three areas: review of prerequisite skills, additional and enrichment activities on current Algebra A/B course topics, and preview of future topics. Students must be enrolled in Algebra A/B to take the Algebra Lab course.
Geometry Lab
This support class, offered currently both after school and during the day, is designed to help students be more successful in their regular Geometry A/B class. Students focus on three areas: review of prerequisite skills, additional and enrichment activities on current Geometry A/B course topics, and preview of future topics. Students must be enrolled in Geometry A/B to take the Geometry Lab course.
Applied Mathematics 2
Taught through vocational education department.
Typical math progression for high school students:
Algebra > Geometry > Algebra 2 > Pre-Calculus and/or AP Statistics
H Geometry > H Algebra 2 > Pre-Calculus > AP Calculus and/or AP Statistics
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Physical Education
Five for Live Program
Program Goal
To provide curriculum that develops an understanding and a value for living an active life and practicing healthy nutritional habits that lead to life-long wellness.
Program Objectives
Students will be able to meet the program goal through these objectives:
- Identify and perform activities that will maintain and develop the five components of fitness
- Understand basic nutrition and how it affects health, performance and appearance
- Understand the location and function of major bones and muscles
- Understand and perform fitness measurements to improve and maintain fitness levels
- Set realistic goals for improvement in the five components of fitness
- Manage personal health habit information through the use of activity, diet, hydration, and sleep logs
- Identify safety concerns associated with a variety of activities
Overview
The Basic curriculum educates students in fitness and health concepts. These concepts are taught through instructional units that include; unit guidelines, student introductions, vocabulary words, original activities and assessments. Fitness measurements are used to establish base-line fitness levels for all students. The practice of goal setting directs students to set realistic goals and work towards them. Functional equipment, combined with fun games and interesting activities, facilitate improvement in the five components of fitness. As students move through the Basic Program they are taught meaningful fitness concepts which empower them to make healthier choices. The links between activity, movement skills, fitness, nutrition, health, and personal achievement are carefully woven together to provide everyone with the opportunity for success
Team Sports:
Credits: 0.5 Credit
Length of Course: 1 Semester
Prerequisite: None
Repeat: This course is repeatable with prior approval.
Physical education students will participate daily in selected individual and/or team sports. Emphasis will be placed on physical fitness, sportsmanship, sports skills, and knowledge. Special attention will be placed on the value of establishing habits leading to lifelong physical activity as a component of a healthy lifestyle. Tests and written assignments will be required
Nutrition/Fitness:
Credits: 0.5 Credit
Length of Course: 1 Semester
Prerequisite: None
Repeat: This course is repeatable with prior approval.
Students actively participate in aerobics, step training, walking, jogging, and beginning resistance training. Emphasis is on developing and maintaining a well-balanced fitness level to include cardiovascular fitness, flexibility, and strength training. Students will analyze eating habits to improve food choices and work on goal-setting for self-improvement. Tests and written assignments will be required.
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Science Department
Our energetic science staff is dedicated to offering students hands-on discovery science. We offer a range of science courses covering Integrated Science, Biology, Chemistry, Ecology, Life Science, and Physics. Chemistry and Physics courses are inquiry and research based with curriculum designed in conjunction with academic personnel at the University of Washington. AP Biology and Chemistry will be offered in 2010. The science department promotes the use of technology and, in addition, partnerships with local community colleges and businesses enhance the instrumentation and experiences available to our students.
9th Grade Physical Science
All freshmen should be enrolled in this course which typically has three sections to be completed in the year. These three sections are: “Active Physics,” “Active Chemistry,” and “Active Earth Science”. These texts use inquiry based science with lots of hands on activities. The district provides activity kits to be used with the text. Students will continue to use science journals, a skill which all students are now required to master in elementary and middle school grades in the Seattle Public Schools. A review of the science journal as well of science safety procedures will take place the first week of class. WASL preparation will be emphasized; previous WASL questions will be introduced where they apply in the curriculum. A class size of no more than 25 students is recommended for these classes to be effective.
Biology
This class is typically for 10th grade students at RBHS. Most 10th grade students should be enrolled in this class. The Seattle Public Schools has adopted the BSCS “A Human Approach” biology curriculum. At RBHS we use the second edition (2004) which is an improvement over the first edition. This course is very inquiry based and requires many higher level thinking skills. Good journal keeping is essential. Weekly WASL question practice has also been introduced into this course. It is recommended that this class be reserved for sophomores and advanced freshman. There should also be at least one honors section.
Chemistry
Chemistry students should be in at least the 10th grade and enrolled in at least Algebra III (they should have completed geometry). We are currently using Addison Wesley “Chemistry” 5th edition (2000). This class is a rigorous college preparatory class and should only be taken by students who have previously done well in science and math.
Laboratory experiences and safety are stressed in this course, so classroom conduct, preparation, and clean up are important to success in this class. Students and parents must read and sign the Laboratory Rules and Procedures Form.
Physics
Physics is recommended for students who want to study math and science at the college level. Physics students should have completed Algebra III/Trigonometry, and be taking a 4th year of high school math. Most students will be in their senior year. We currently use Glencoe “Physic” (2005) as our text. Physics uses inquiry and mathematics to describe the physical properties of the universe. Laboratory investigations are an important part of this course.
Life Science
This is a second science course for students who were not successful at biology. The class is typically taken by 11th and 12th grade students who need a science credit for graduation requirements. This is a less rigorous course stressing living systems. A variety of texts and resources are used. Project work and individual progress are used to stimulate the students’ interest in science and scientific thinking.
Ecology
This class is for grades 9-12, and is an integrated science course focusing on the environment. Reading scientific text and writing in the vocabulary of science is important in this course. During the first semester the physical aspects of our environment along with our energy resources, the waste stream, and pollution are studied. The second semester focuses primarily on the earth’s biological resources and how we can protect those resources. The course includes videos of how humans are affecting their environment, lab investigations, and local field trips to make observations of habitats.
Currently we offer an honors section of 9th grade integrated science. In 2007/2008 we plan to offer a section of AP biology and possibly a section of AP chemistry if there is enough interest by qualified students.
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Social Studies
World History One:
Length of Course: 1 semester
This freshman class will begin with an exploration of theories about the origins of humanity. It will introduce students to the economic, political and social development of civilization, including study of Khemet (ancient Egypt), Greece, Rome, and Harappa (India.) Students will explore world geography and also become aware of current issues including environmental awareness. They will also view these regions with a lens of current issues.
World History Two:
Length of Course: 1 semester
The primary purpose of this freshman class will be to continue studies of the economic, political and social characteristics of regions and countries of the world. The areas of focus will include the Middle East, South Africa, Asia and Mexico. Students will explore world geography and be introduced to current issues, including issues of war and peace.
World History Three:
Length of Course: 1 semester
The primary purpose of this sophomore course is to give students an opportunity to learn about the economic, political, and social developments that created the global civilization of which they are a part. The course includes the Ancient African, Caribbean, and Polynesian cultures. There will be an extensive study of how historical events such as Ma'Afa, the Black Diaspora, the rise and fall of imperialism and colonialism impact the daily lives of students. Human rights and current day Latin America will also be a focus.
Advanced Placement United States History:
Length of Course: 1 semester
This is a two semester course that explores the development of the United States as a nation, as well as its impact on the Native and African populations. The first semester will cover the structure of the native population, the birth of the United States and will chronologically approach the Civil War. The second semester will start from the Reconstruction Period until present-day. Nightly readings are assigned followed by daily quizzes and vocabulary tests. Each unit test contains a multiple choice and free response section. The primary goal of the class will be to take the Advanced Placement test in the spring.
United States History 11A:
Length of Course: 1 semester
This semester long course covers the time period from the origins of the United States through the Reconstruction Period. The class will explore issues facing ethnic groups residing in North America, with a particular focus on Native American struggles. Students will learn skills of critical analysis and understand the themes of revolution, rebellion, activism and skills of debate. Topical areas include early exploration, the road to revolution, the American Revolution, slavery and the abolitionist movement, the Civil War and Reconstruction.
United States History 11B:
Length of Course: 1 semester
This course is the second half of a one year course.
The semester begins with themes of immigration and continues through industrialization and unionization. The class will focus on the role of the United States in the global arena. Units will include: immigration, World War One and Two, Latino and African-American Civil Rights Movement and contemporary U.S. issues.
American Government:
Length of Course: 1 semester
This one-semester course will explore issues of the founding of the United States government. Students will study social class, the Bill of Rights, the role of the media, voting and elections, and the criminal justice system. They will study and debate current issues and understand legal precedent.
Advanced Placement American Government:
Length of Course: 1 semester
This is a one-year class that will examine the structure of the United States government. We will study the principles and foundations of the United States and the Constitution; as well as look at the way in which the government currently functions. This will be a very detailed look at the United States government. Nightly readings are assigned followed by daily quizzes and vocabulary tests. Each unit test contains a multiple choice and free response section. The primary goal of the class will be to take an Advanced Placement test in the spring.
Advanced Placement Human Geography:
Length of Course: 1 semester
The purpose of the AP course in Human Geography is to introduce students to the systematic study of patterns and processes that have shaped human understanding, use, and alteration of Earth's surface. Students employ spatial concepts and landscape analysis to examine human social organization and its environmental consequences. They also learn about the methods and tools geographers use in their science and practice.
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Special Education
World Language
Rainier Beach is proud to offer a variety of World Language courses, including 3 levels of Spanish and 2 levels of French. Both languages offer a comprehensive study of the language through reading, writing, listening and speaking as well as learning about the culture, history and geography of the particular language through various activities which include song, dance, performance and travel. The World Languages Department has partnered with Global Visionaries which is a not-for-profit that works with students from the Seattle Schools and teaches them how to be leaders in their community here and abroad, it gives students the opportunity to have an immersion experience in Guatemala in either Spring or Summer. The French program will soon be replaced with the offering of Mandarin or Japanese beginning in 2011. The World Language program continues to grow and we hope to offer even more advanced courses and learning opportunities for students.
World Language
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The CWEST program is intended for students who want to find out about careers in the skilled trades like carpentry, electrical, plumbing, welding, concrete, etc. As a course outcome, the student will know what is expected of them on a jobsite so they can be successful if they choose later to become an apprentice in one of the trades. They will know that there will be adults who will welcome them and train them even though the student starts out with no skills in the craft. They will be able to work safely in all kinds of worksites because they will be able to recognize hazards and ask the right questions to deal with them.
Who should take CWEST:
We want students who have the maturity to work independently outside of school supervision. Who have the ability to show up on time and show up every day. No other skills are necessary except the desire to learn about construction in the real world.
The course is open to all Seattle schools juniors and seniors. Girls are encouraged to apply.
Credits:
2 credits of .5 each will be given for successful completion.
Class schedule:
Daily 12:45 to 2:30 at Rainier Beach High School
After 2 weeks basic safety and orientation, Students will be on jobsites Tuesday and Thursday from 12:30 to 3:30.