Departments

Counseling Center

Teen Health Center

Career Center

Departments

• English/Language Arts
• Social Studies
  
• Mathematics
  
• Science
  
• Physical Ed
  
• Business Ed
  
• Technology
  
• Family and Consumer Science
  
• Art/Music/Drama
  
• Bilingual
  
• English Language Learners
  
• Special Education

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 relevent perspective. Intensive writing exercises aim to allow students to respond, evaluate, analyze and apply new skills and information.

APLA 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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Social Studies Department

World History One

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

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 HistoryThree

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

United States History 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 and passsan Advanced Placement test in the spring.

U.S. History llA

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.

U.S. History 11B

This course is the second half of a one year course.
The semester begins with themes of immigration and continue 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

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

This is a one-semester 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.

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Mathematics

Course Descriptions

Pre-Integrated Math:   Pre-Integrated Math is a year long course for incoming 9th graders who need a full year of pre-algebra skills before enrolling in Integrated 1.  Students are placed in Pre-Integrated Math based on a combination of 8th grade teacher recommendations and classroom based observation and assessment by Rainier Beach teachers.  Students also may enter Pre-Integrated 1B during second semester by teacher recommendation if they have attempted Int 1A, but failed due to mathematical knowledge (not attendance.)  Following this course, students advance to Integrated 1A/1B.

Integrated Math 1A/1B:  Integrated 1A is taught first semester, and upon successful completion, students continue to Integrated 1B 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 Integrated Math 1A/1B (or higher) upon entry to high school.  Exceptions are noted above.

Integrated Math 2A/2B:   This course follows successful completion of Integrated 1A/B.  Integrated 2A is taught first semester, and Integrated 2B second semester.  This course focuses mainly on logical thinking, geometric properties, algebra,  coordinate geometry, and problem solving skills.  In this integrated course, students continue developing skills introduced in Integrated 1, and prepare for both the WASL and further math courses. 

Integrated Math 2A/2B Honors:  This course is primarily for 9th graders who completed Integrated Math 1A/1B in middle school.  Students (10th/11th grades) who exhibit high achievement in Int 1A/1B (A or high B average) are also enrolled. It is similar in content to the Integrated 2A/2B course, with a faster pace and more topics covered.  Students who begin Int 2AH 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.

Integrated Math 3A/3B:  This course follows successful completion of Integrated 2A/2B.   In this class, most of the focus is on trigonometry and 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.

Integrated Math 3A/3B Honors:  This course, similar in content to Integrated 3A/3B, follows successful completion of Integrated Math 2A/2B Honors  or  high achievement and teacher recommendation following Integrated Math 2A/2B (non honors).  Students continue to Pre-calculus.

Pre-calculus:  This year long course follows successful completion of Integrated Math 3A/3B or 3A/3B 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.

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. 

Applied Mathematics:  Taught through vocational education department.

MESA:   MESA (Math, Engineering and Science Achievement) is offered through the math department as a second semester elective for 10th graders only.  For 9th graders, we have an after school program Monday and Wednesday afternoons from 2:30 until 4:00.  Students work in study groups with tutors, and do hands-on activities to further mathematical understanding.

Applied Mathematics: Taught through vocational education department.

James Vogler 252.6459, Rm 266 Pre-Calculus, Algebra,
Honors Algebra Trig,

Kim Lessig 252-6446, Rm 230 Calculus, Geometry, Honors Geometry
MESA (2nd semester)

Michael Rice 252-6460, Rm 268 Algebra Trig, Algebra,
Pre-Algebra

Glenda Madison, Rm 260 WASL

Richard Ely 252-6423, Rm 196 Applied Mathematics

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Science

RBHS Science Courses and Curriculum Alignment

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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Physical Education

CLASSES AVAILABLE FOR 2007-2008

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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Business Ed

Coming soon...

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Technology

Course Offerings: Construction, Applied Math, C-West

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Family and Consumer Science

Nutrition/Wellness  (old Nutrition/Foods)  same course, new name
Grades 9 - 12    No Prerequisite   

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    No Prerequisite   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    No Prerequisite   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 - 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 - 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 - 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 (advancedprofessional 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.

FCS staff members are: Marcia Green, Department Head, Loretta Davidson and Annie Patu

Contact Information: Marcia Green- Room 160
206. 252.6371
mrgreen@seattleschools.org

Loretta Davidson- Room 152
206.252. 6370
ladavidson@seattleschools.org

Annie Patu- Room 150

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.

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Art/Music/Drama

English Language Learners

Lila Chin, Department Head
Rustico Baldoz, Filipino Instructional Assistant
Luis Arredondo, Spanish 1A

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 in students who have limited oral or reading and writing skills. A student's eligibility is determined by the results of the Language Assessment Scale-Oral (LAS-O) test given by the Department of Transitional Bilingual Education.

Through the course of the school year, the ELL Department offers classes utilizing the "Sheltered English" Model. This is an approach by which the ELL teacher teaches English through a specific content area (i.e. General Science, U.S. History, Health, World History, etc.) While content is used, the ELL teacher is always assessing both the content and the language skills of the students. We offer beginning and advanced level Language Arts classes.

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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

For more information about our ELL program, you may call Mrs. Lila Chin at (206) 252-6443.

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Special Education

Coming soon...

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