Sioux Valley School District - Home of the Cossacks

SIOUX VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL

2024-2025 COURSE DESCRIPTIONS 

4-Year Plan

Freshman        Sophomore             Junior        Senior

The Sioux Valley School District 5-5 does not discriminate in its employment policies and practices, or in its educational programs on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, age, sex, disability, national origin, ancestry, parental, family, or marital status.  Inquiries concerning the application of Title VI, Title X, or 504 are to contact Supt. Laura Schuster, Sioux Valley High School, 200 Hansina Ave., Volga, SD 57071, phone 605-627-5657, fax 605-627-5291 or the US Dept of Education, Office for Civil Rights, 8930 Ward Parkway, Suite 2037, Kansas City, MO, 64114, phone 816-268-0550 or 1-800-437-0833, fax 816-823-1404, email ocr.KansasCity@ed.gov, website www.ed.gov/ocr/.

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

ENGLISH

English I * (9) 1 credit

This course will deepen students' capacities to respond to works of literature. As they read a variety of genres, students will expand their awareness of literary style and will learn approaches that will make them more discerning readers and writers. Students will view literature with an awareness of literary elements such as theme, narrative, structure, and language. In addition to a variety of genres, students will also study vocabulary and grammar as well as the structure and process of effective writing. Works studied include Ender’s Game, To Kill a Mockingbird, poetry, short stories, and other works. Students will also complete a social issues research project throughout the course of the year, which will be the basis for independent reading, writing, and research.

English II * (10) 1 credit

This course builds on the skills begun in English I. This course will develop skills in close reading, analysis, and composition. Through a study of a range of genres and authors, students will begin to move toward a greater awareness of world literature texts. Students will gain increasing comprehension of genre and style as they analyze and interpret. Students will develop their critical thinking skills, write with growing proficiency, and speak with escalating confidence, as they make individual as well as group presentations. Students will also engage in formal vocabulary and grammar study as well as study the elements of research. Texts studied include The Taming of the Shrew, The Things They Carried, short stories, and other works. Students will also complete a family pedigree project that will be the basis for independent reading, writing, and research. Additionally, this course teaches the basics of speech communication and creates a level of confidence in students.  Students will cultivate skills that can be used in a variety of speaking situations and purposes (such as to inform, to persuade, to entertain, and to demonstrate).  Focus will be on organization, writing for verbal delivery, stylistic choices, visual and presentation skills, analysis and critique, and overcoming the fear of public speaking.

English III * (11) 1 credit

This course focuses on two main areas of American Literature:  1) The history of literature (both fiction and non-fiction) in America and 2) The fine-tuning of composition and grammar skills necessary for effective writing, specifically in the areas of argumentative writing, narrative writing, and literary analysis.  We will read a wide range of literature including The Great Gatsby, Of Mice and Men, The Crucible, as well as notable American authors from the beginnings of America to famous contemporaries.  Students will learn the basics of writing resumes, cover letters, and personal statements.  Students will also work to improve informational text understanding and analysis.

English IV * (12) 1 credit

This course focuses on English and World Literature that addresses the Sioux Valley guidelines of quality producers, self-directed learners, cooperative workers, and culturally enlightened persons. It is a study of drama, poetry, and novels dating from the Anglo-Saxon Period and Middle Ages through the modern age. During the year, students will tackle many pieces of literature from a variety of time periods and genres. Students will write critical and comparative analyses of selected literature, continuing to develop their language arts skills.  In addition, there will be focus on vocabulary growth, mechanics of language, and academic research writing. In the spring semester, students will complete a rigorous research project.  A passing grade on this research project is required to earn credit for the semester.

MATH

Algebra I * (9) 1 credit

This course includes the study of properties and operations of the real number system; evaluating rational algebraic expressions; solving and graphing first-degree equations and inequalities; translating word problems into equations; operations with and factoring of polynomials; solving systems of linear equations; and solving simple quadratic equations.

Geometry * (10) 1 credit

The emphasis in this course is helping students understand and develop mathematical maturity in the logical reasoning process. Geometry includes topics such as properties of plane and solid figures, deductive methods of reasoning and use of logic.  Other topics included are the study of points, lines, planes, angles, triangles, and their properties, proficiency in developing proofs of congruence, parallel and perpendicular lines, similarity, proportions, simple geometric constructions and supplemented with topics in trigonometry. Prerequisite: Algebra I

Algebra II * (11) 1 credit

The topics in this course include field properties and theorems; set theory; operations with rational and irrational expressions; factoring of rational expressions; in-depth study of linear equations and inequalities; quadratic equations; solving systems of linear and quadratic equations; graphing of constant, linear, and quadratic equations; properties of higher-degree equations; operations with rational and irrational exponents; and an introduction of trigonometry.  Prerequisites: Algebra I and Geometry

Transitional Algebra II * (11) 1 credit

Transition Algebra courses review and extend algebra concepts for students who have already taken Algebra I and Geometry. Transition Algebra II includes a review of such topics as properties and operations of real numbers; evaluation of rational algebraic expressions; solutions and graphs of first-degree equations and inequalities; translation of word problems into equations; operations with and factoring of polynomials; simple quadratics; properties of plane and solid figures; rules of congruence and similarity; coordinate geometry including lines, segments, and circles in the coordinate plane; and angle measurement in triangles including trigonometric ratios. NOTE:  Does not meet the requirements for the South Dakota Opportunity Scholarship or SD Regent Scholar.

Pre-Calculus (12) 1 credit

This course combines the study of Trigonometry, Elementary Functions, Analytic Geometry, and Mathematic Analysis topics as preparation for calculus. Topics typically include the study of complex numbers; polynomial, logarithmic, exponential, rational, right trigonometric, and circular functions, and their relations, inverses and graphs; trigonometric identities and equations; solutions of right and oblique triangles; vectors; the polar coordinate system; conic sections; Boolean algebra and symbolic logic; mathematical induction; matrix algebra; sequences and series; and limits and continuity.  Prerequisite: Algebra II

SCIENCE

Earth & Space Science; Physical Science * (9) 1 credit

This course explores how physical, biological, and earth systems shape our planet and its environment. This class focuses on the complex nature of Earth systems, including Earth's composition, structure, processes, and history; its atmosphere, fresh water, and oceans; and its environment in space as a set of complex, interacting, and overlapping systems. The nature of science is emphasized as students learn about the development of scientific thought about Earth and space. The course stresses the interpretation of maps, charts, tables, and profiles; the use of technology to collect, analyze, and report data; and the utilization of science skills in systematic investigation. In the spring semester, this course involves the study of the structures and states of matter. Topics studied include forms of energy, wave phenomenon, electromagnetism, and physical and chemical interactions. You will learn using a combination of lab investigations, modeling, reading, and data interpretation.

Biology * (10) 1 credit

This laboratory course investigates the fundamental concepts of life and life processes.  Students will examine molecular structure, biochemistry, cell structure and function, cellular transport, and cell reproduction. Topics include molecules found in living things, cell life cycles, cell organelles, homeostasis, transport, and mitosis/meiosis. Second semester covers basic genetics, human genetic disorders, replication, transcription and translation of DNA, as well as classification of organisms, evolution, photosynthesis, respiration, ecosystem interactions, nitrogen, carbon, oxygen, phosphorus, and water cycles.

Chemistry * (11) 1 credit

This laboratory course provides students with the opportunity to discover matter, its’ structure, and its’ interactions. Topics explored include the atom, the periodic table, chemical names and formulas, chemical reactions, stoichiometry, thermochemistry, equilibrium, reaction rates, states of matter, and acids/bases. This lab science class builds on the knowledge of each previous unit and requires some mathematical understanding. Prerequisite:  Biology

Conceptual Chemistry (11) 1 credit

This course provides an understanding of important chemical concepts as they apply to everyday life.  Course content includes matter, measurements, the Periodic Table and atomic structure, chemical compounds and equations, gasses, solutions, and acid/base chemistry.  This lab course will be taught utilizing mathematical concepts.  Conceptual Chemistry is intended for the student not planning to pursue a four-year college degree. Prerequisite: Biology  NOTE:  Does not meet the requirements of the South Dakota Opportunity Scholarship or Regent Scholar.

Anatomy and Physiology (11-12) 1 credit

This course is for those interested in science-related fields. Anatomy and Physiology is a discussion and laboratory course-based study of the human body. The study will include anatomical terminology, study cells and tissues, and explore functional systems (skeletal, muscular, circulatory, respiratory, digestive, reproductive, nervous, etc.). Dissection of a fetal pig and other appropriate organs will complement coursework. A field trip to the SDSU Anatomy lab reinforces the material. This course is designed for college preparation, especially for biology and health career majors. Prerequisite: Biology

Physics (12) 1 credit

This is an elective lab science course that requires higher-order thinking skills.  Physics also requires advanced math skills using physical constants, conversion factors, and mathematical equations to analyze data from lab exercises.  Physics involves the study of forces and laws of nature affecting matter such as equilibrium, motion, momentum, and the relationship between matter and energy.  Topics include an examination of sound, light, and magnetic and electric phenomena.  Physics is good preparation for anyone going into engineering or any of the sciences.  Prerequisite:  Algebra II

SOCIAL STUDIES  

World History * (9) (Semester Course) ½ credit

This course focuses on world historical events, which have influenced and shaped societies. This class will start in the Renaissance and conclude as close to the present day as possible. Major events covered include The Enlightenment, The Industrial Revolution, European Expansion and Imperialism, World War I and World War II. This class gives students an understanding of how studying history can help to shape our modern-day decision-making procedures.

World Geography * (10) (Semester Course) ½ credit

This course is the study of regions of the world. This class stresses two main areas: 1) Physical Geography: location of continents, countries, landforms, and bodies of water around the globe, and 2) Cultural Geography: values, lifestyles, food/clothing, arts, government structures, and population patterns. The class gives students a solid background in recognizing all geographical areas/locations on the planet, as well as understanding human activities and interactions on a global setting.

U.S. History * (11) 1 credit

This course covers content from Reconstruction to the Present day. This class places a special emphasis on American History, including the perspectives, values, and reasoning we can draw from analyzing history. Current events are integrated into the curriculum so that students can see modern connections between then and now. The National History Day will be a major element of this course.

U.S. Government * (12) 1 credit

This course is a study of our national, state, and local units of government. This will include the development of our governmental structures, basic concepts such as limited government, popular sovereignty, checks and balances, separation of powers, personal freedoms, rule of law, and federalism. We will investigate the three branches of the government and their functions, the United States Constitution, and other significant American documents. South Dakota's government and our local governmental structures will also be covered.

COMPUTER

CTE Business Computer Applications * (9) (Semester Course) ½ credit

Students acquire knowledge of and experience in the proper and efficient use of previously written software packages. The student will learn to identify the general usage of technology, software, and applications. Utilizing that knowledge, this course will cover topics such as, but not be limited to, word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, operating systems, Internet browsers, search engines, databases, preventive maintenance, security, digital literacy, netiquette, and citizenship. The course expands the student's skills, knowledge, and confidence in various forms of software platforms and applications.

FINE ARTS

Visual Arts I (9-12) 1 credit

This course will give a better understanding of the elements of art; shape, line, texture, value and color using many mediums. Mediums will include pencil, ink pen, markers, acrylic and watercolor paints, clay, chalks and oil pastels.  Pencil shading, color theory other art principles will be taught along with experiences in collage, three-dimensional sculpture, and perspective drawing.  Student work will be exhibited.  Students will be responsible for basic art supplies, which are purchased through the school.

Ceramics (10-12)   1 credit

This course focuses on creating a variety of three-dimensional pieces from clay, developing an understanding of the nature of clay, and the difference between sculptural and functional artworks.  This includes investigation of the three basic hand-building techniques:  Pinch, Coil, and Slab.  Students will also learn how to create and throw ceramic forms using the potter’s wheel.  A variety of surface treatment techniques will be explored.  Students are responsible for basic art supplies, which will be purchased through the school.

Drawing/Painting I (10-12) 1 credit

In Drawing, emphasis will be placed on the principles of drawing: contour, line, proportion, and perspective. Students will develop the ability to perceive the world around us and understand the relationship of how it translates onto paper. Students will work with a variety of materials, mark-making techniques, exercises, and assignments designed to enhance this process. This will involve working from stilllife and photographs, as well as imagination. Compositional strategies and a development of concepts will be refined throughout the semester.  Through the exploration of media, students will develop and learn various techniques including charcoal, pencil, pen, brush/ink, watercolor, pastel, marker, and colored pencil.  In Painting, students will continue their exploration of technique, content, and craftsmanship skills through the acquisition in various painting media, including watercolor, acrylic, oil, and airbrush.  Students will have the opportunity to choose and develop subject matter as they are refining their painting techniques.  This also includes a foundation of technical knowledge, studio practice, and care of materials, equipment, and tools.  In developing critical dialogue with peers, students will find a personal connection to painting. Curriculum will be alternated. Students are responsible for basic art supplies, which are purchased through the school.  Prerequisite: Visual Arts I

Art Portfolio (11-12) 1 credit

At this level, students have displayed a strong interest in the field of art and have determined it as an important part of their lives. Students will determine their own compositions for their projects, while keeping in mind the elements and principles of design. Investigation through the use of creative media will be strongly emphasized through the exploration of various media and surface techniques. Students will learn creative and portfolio presentation skills needed to prepare them to build and refine artwork for pursuing a career in the visual arts. Art Portfolio will focus and encourage critical thinking and investigation of art-making processes, and through this students will develop their own style and technique, as well as formulate personal artistic goals for the future. Students will create, select, respond to, and present work that clearly reflects newly obtained technical skills, increasing conceptual thinking and is a reflection of their personal interests. These courses may include individual critiques and peer review. Students are responsible for basic art supplies, which are purchased through the school. Prerequisite: Drawing & Painting or Ceramics

Art Appreciation / Music Appreciation (9-12) 1 credit

Art Appreciation introduces students to the historical study of and foundation for many forms of art. This course helps students form an aesthetic framework to examine social, political, and historical events in the world and how visual images express the ideas of individuals and society. Students are involved in the creative process through research and lecture, responding and dialogue, observation and interpretation with art works and artifacts. Music Appreciation surveys different musical styles and periods with the intent of increasing students’ understanding of music and its importance in relation to the human experience. This course focuses on how various styles of music apply musical elements to create an expressive or aesthetic impact. Specific music studies include classical, blues, Broadway, and Rock and Roll.

Band (9-12) 1 credit

This course provides an opportunity to build upon current instrumental skills and knowledge as we prepare various types of repertoire throughout the year.  Performances include concerts, pep band, marching band, and contests. There are additional opportunities in jazz band, solo/ensemble contest, and honors band.  Students may also audition for All-State Ensembles. Grades are based on attendance, participation, and performances. Students will benefit by working individually and as a team to develop a sense of community, confidence, and lifelong music skills, appreciation, and understanding. 

Chorus (9-12) 1 credit

The Sioux Valley Mixed Concert Choir is a fine arts elective that strives to vocally develop musicians through a variety of different musical experiences and repertoire.  The ensemble setting nurtures cooperative teamwork and seeks to build positive self-esteem/confidence through individual and group learning activities and performances. (Various honors choirs and festivals are also available to students who join this ensemble).  Criteria for grading includes participation and effort as well as classroom assignments and concert attendance.  

PERSONAL WELLNESS

Fitness & Conditioning * (10) (Semester Course) ½ credit 

The purpose of this course is to improve students’ strength, agility and fitness using a multi-phase training approach that is tailored to Sioux Valley’s period length and facility.  Students will learn safe use of strength equipment and technique while performing research based free weight exercises aimed at increasing explosive strength and injury prevention. Students will improve fitness by training the body’s three energy systems (ATP-PC, Lactic Acid & Aerobic) while performing an array of activities aimed at increasing speed, agility, and core strength.  Performance is pre and post evaluated by measuring vertical jump and calculating an estimated 1 rep max by using a multi-rep formula.   

Early Bird Fitness & Conditioning (10-12 only) (7:15-8:05 AM) (Semester Course) ½ credit 

The purpose of this course is to improve students’ strength, agility and fitness using a multi-phase training approach that is tailored to Sioux Valley’s period length and facility.  Students will learn safe use of strength equipment and technique while performing research based free weight exercises aimed at increasing explosive strength and injury prevention. Students will improve fitness by training the body’s three energy systems (ATP-PC, Lactic Acid & Aerobic) while performing an array of activities aimed at increasing speed, agility, and core strength.  Performance is pre and post evaluated by measuring vertical jump and calculating an estimated 1 rep max by using a multi-rep formula.   

Personal Finance * (12) (Semester Course) ½ credit

This course provides students with an understanding of the concepts and principles involved in managing one’s personal finances. These courses emphasize lifespan goal-setting, individual and family decision-making, and consumer rights, as well as topics that are commonly associated with personal finance so that one can become a financially responsible consumer. Topics may include savings and investing, credit, insurance, taxes and social security, spending patterns and budget planning, contracts, and consumer protection. These courses may also investigate the effects of the global economy on consumers and the family.  Students will also utilize EverFi, a new-media learning platform that uses the latest technology – video, animations, 3-D gaming, avatars, and social networking – to bring complex financial concepts to life for today’s digital generation. This program is funded through BankStar of Volga.

Health * (12) (Semester Course) ½ credit

In this course, students will learn concepts related to health promotion and disease prevention to enhance health. Students will analyze the influence of family, peers, culture, media, technology and other factors on health behaviors. Students will demonstrate the ability to access valid information, products, and services to enhance health. Students will develop skills to enhance health and avoid or reduce health risk. Students will demonstrate the ability to use decision-making and goal-setting skills to enhance health. Students will also develop the ability to advocate for personal, family and community health.  

WORLD LANGUAGE

Spanish I (9-12) 1 credit

This course is an introduction to the Spanish language and culture. Coursework will prepare students to communicate in Spanish by interpreting material (reading, listening, viewing), exchanging information (speaking and listening; reading and writing), and presenting on a variety of topics (speaking, writing). Through these modes of communication, students will be exposed to the products, practices, and perspectives of Spanish-speaking cultures. 

Spanish II (10-12) 1 credit

This course will build on skills mastered in Spanish I. Students will again interpret material (reading, listening, viewing), exchange information (speaking and listening; reading and writing), and present on a variety of topics (speaking, writing). Spanish II will further expose students to the products, practices, and perspectives unique to Spanish-speaking cultures.      Prerequisite: Spanish I, unless a native Spanish speaker

E-Learning Online Spanish III (11-12) 1 credit

This course prepares students to communicate authentically in Spanish by interpreting (reading, listening, viewing), exchanging (speaking and listening; reading and writing), and presenting (speaking, writing) information, concepts, and ideas on a variety of topics, including connections to other subject areas. These courses expand students’ knowledge of relationships among the products, practices, and perspectives of Spanish-speaking countries and cultures.  Prerequisite: Spanish I and II, unless a native Spanish speaker

ELECTIVES

CTE Accounting I (9-12) 1 credit - This course may be offered every other year with Accounting II. 
Accounting courses introduce students to and expand their knowledge of the fundamental accounting principles and procedures used in businesses through integrating and using accounting-related software and information systems. Course content includes the recording and completion of the accounting cycle, payroll, taxes, debts, depreciation, and periodic adjustments through a computerized accounting program. Students may learn how to apply standard auditing principles and to prepare budgets and final reports. Calculators, electronic spreadsheets, or computer accounting software are usually used. Advanced topics may include principles of partnership and corporate accounting and the managerial uses of control systems and the accounting process.

CTE Accounting II (10-12) 1 credit - This course may be offered every other year with Accounting I.

Students in Accounting II will develop advanced skills that build upon those acquired in Accounting I. Additional accounting skills such as departmentalized accounting, reconciling uncollectible accounts, calculating depreciation on assets, interpreting financial information, and calculating notes and interest will be developed. Prerequisite: Accounting I

CTE Ag Natural Resources/Plant Science (9) 1 credit

Natural Resources Management courses combine the fields of ecology and conservation with planning for the efficient use and preservation of land, water, wildlife, and forests. Within the general area of natural resources management, this course will cover specific topics and uses, such as hunting or fishing preserves, safe usage initiatives, forest production and management, wildlife preservation, and commercial use of natural resources.  The plant science industry is a large part of the economic structure in South Dakota, from crop and forage production, to horticulture and forestry.  Every corner of South Dakota is involved in the plant science field.  Topics covered in this course include plant anatomy and physiology, environmental impacts and plant growth, production, and harvesting.  

CTE Ag Mechanics/Agribusiness (10) 1 credit

Agriculture Mechanics/Structures courses provide students with the skills and knowledge that are specifically applicable to the tools and equipment used in the industry. While learning to apply their knowledge of the basic principles of technological design and production skills (engine mechanics, power systems, welding), students may explore a broad range of topics, including the operation, mechanics, and care of tools and machines; a study of electricity and power principles; and safety procedures.  Agribusiness Sales and Marketing courses provide students with the information and skills necessary for success in agribusiness and in operating entrepreneurial ventures in the agricultural industry. These courses may cover topics such as economic principles, budgeting, risk management, finance, business law, marketing and promotion strategies, insurance, and resource management.

CTE Animal Science (11) 1 credit

Animal Production/Science courses impart information about the care and management of farm animals. These courses may cover animal nutrition, health, behavior, selection, reproduction, anatomy and physiology, facilities, product processing, research, qualitative and quantitative analyses as a basis for decision-making, and marketing. Students study particular species and will learn how to care for and maintain livestock as a more inclusive study.

CTE Ag Structures (12) 1 credit

This course is offered only to seniors and will teach the basic need of agricultural structures.  Topics covered in this class are planning, constructing and maintaining agricultural structures, personal and occupational safety, plan reading, laying out structures, selection, use and maintenance of hand and power tools, and framing agricultural buildings. The class will consist of a major building project that will teach the principles above.  Pre-requisite:  Natural Resources, Plant Science, Agribusiness, Ag Mechanics and Animal Science

CTE Basic Food Principles (9-12) ½ credit 

This semester course of Basic Food Principles will teach the basics of food selection, storage, and preparation. Emphasis is on consumerism, planning nutritious meals and basic food preparation techniques. Students will participate in food labs and will learn the basics of safety and sanitation through hands-on food lab activities.

CTE Career Skills / Exploration (9-12) ½ credit 

Career Skills and Exploration is a semester course designed to teach students how to choose and plan for a career. Students look at their interests, skills, personality, and aptitudes and use that information to help them make viable post-secondary and career decisions. The course focuses on preparing students for the demands of the world of work by integrating valuable career skills into the curriculum. Relevant topics include interview skills, effective written and verbal communication, work ethics, teamwork and career success and satisfaction. By the end of the course, students will complete an in-depth exploration of several careers and will identify career pathways that best fit their skills, aptitudes, and interests. 

CTE Leadership & Service Learning (9-12) ½ credit 

Leadership and Service Learning is a semester project-based course that offers students the opportunity to learn, practice, and apply the skills needed for future success in their careers and personal lives. This class will focus on helping each student identify personal leadership styles and give them opportunities to use their skills to succeed and to help others. Students select service learning opportunities that fit their needs and may be related to student organizations or other service groups. Assistance will be provided to plan and complete service learning projects. Emphasis will be on developing leadership styles, strengthening the qualities of good leaders, and providing service.

CTE Child Development: Birth To Toddler (9-12) ½ credit 

This semester course deals with human development from conception through adolescence. Topics covered include human reproduction, child development and how to deal with children, roles and responsibilities of parents, exploring the challenges of parenthood as well as developing an understanding of children and why they act as they do, a unit on sexually transmitted diseases, teenage pregnancy, and teen parenting are included in the curriculum. During the semester, students will have the opportunity to go into the elementary weekly to work with children and apply skills learned in class to real-life situations. Students will also take part in an infant simulator experience by taking home a BabyThink It Over Simulator for 1 weekend.  The class is recommended for anyone interested in careers working with children, in education, or in taking the Teaching and Training as a Profession course.

CTE Human Development: Adolescence To Adulthood (9-12) ½ credit 

This semester course deals with human development and helps students prepare for the roles of adulthood. Human Development: Adolescence through Adulthood is a course that is designed to enable students to gain the knowledge necessary to understand the developmental stages from adolescence through late adulthood. The course will examine the developmental tasks, traits, and problems of each of these stages. The class is recommended for anyone interested in careers working with people from school age to geriatrics.

CTE Teaching as a Profession (10-12) ½ credit 

Prerequisite: Recommended but not required-Child Development Birth to 4

Teaching as a Profession is intended to give knowledge, skills, and experiences to high school students who are considering a profession in education (early childhood, elementary, or middle/high school). Students will explore principles of teaching and learning and explore the responsibilities and duties of teachers. This course exposes students to classroom management, student behavior, assessment of student progress, teaching strategies and various career opportunities in the field of education. This course is a prerequisite to a capstone experience (internship) where students will work under a certified teacher in an early childhood, elementary, middle school or high school classroom. Prerequisite for Teacher Aide:  Teaching and Training

CTE Teacher Aide (12) 1 credit

The Teacher Aide course provides students with the opportunity to gain experience working with teachers completing a variety of assigned responsibilities.  Students will also develop a portfolio of their time spent working at their site, as well as various career-based assessments completed throughout their experience.  Prerequisite:  Teaching and Training

CTE Digital Production for Entertainment / Multi-Media Design (9-12) 1 credit

Step into the world of digital storytelling and creative design with our year-long course, structured to offer immersive experiences in digital production and multimedia. The first semester is dedicated to digital production for entertainment, focusing on our school's live events and social media content creation. The second semester transitions into multimedia, where students will hone their skills in graphics and video creation. Throughout the course, students will work in collaborative teams, fostering creativity, communication, technological skills, and problem-solving abilities. Ideal for students with a passion for digital arts, this course offers hands-on learning in a vibrant, real-world context. Prepare to transform your innovative ideas into compelling digital narratives and designs for authentic audiences.

Recreational Sports (11-12) .5 credit

Recreation Sports courses provide students with knowledge, experience, and an opportunity to develop skills in more than one recreational sport or outdoor pursuit (such as adventure activities, croquet, Frisbee, wall climbing, bocce ball, fishing, hiking, cycling, and so on).

South Dakota History / Native American Studies (9-12) 1 credit

This course is a study of the great state of South Dakota.  The class will cover topics from the first inhabitants to South Dakota’s most recent significant events.  Course content typically includes interactions between settlers, governing bodies, and Native Americans.  Examples: Fort Laramie Treaty, Native American Boarding Schools, and the Wounded Knee Massacre.  The course will also discuss major figures in South Dakota History, South Dakota Government, and South Dakota Geography.  The class will also discuss the impact of the Great Depression on South Dakota as well as other significant events such as the Children’s Blizzard of 1888, the American Indian Movement, the Second Wounded Knee, and the creation of Native American Reservations.   

Standardized Test Prep (11-12) .5 credit

Standardized Test Preparation courses help prepare students for national standardized tests such as the PSAT, SAT, and ACT. These courses assist students in developing and/or expanding their vocabulary, test-taking, and reasoning skills through study, lecture, and practice drills. Course topics may include vocabulary review; root words, prefixes, and suffixes; mathematical concepts, logic, and rules; and general problem-solving and test-taking strategies.

Psychology/Sociology (10-12) 1 credit

Psychology/Sociology (10-12) .5 credit psychology introduces students to the scientific study of the human mind and behavior. Course content typically includes (but is not limited to) an overview of the field of psychology, topics of the evolving mind, the biological mind, the adaptive mind, and so much more! .5 credit sociology introduces students to the study of human behavior in society. This course provides an overview of sociology, including (but not limited to) topics such as social institutions and norms, socialization and social change, and the relationships among individuals and groups in society.

Yearbook (10-12) 1 credit

This course offers students a chance to work as part of a team that is responsible for honing the fundamentals of journalistic writing, photojournalism, graphic design, and organizational skills necessary to produce a quality product. The class is designed for student staffers to hold responsibility for every aspect of production including designing, writing, editing, interviewing, and photographing. Successful staffers are self-starters and highly reliable and trustworthy. They also have a working knowledge of English composition and a willingness to learn new computer software. This course requires outside work.  Students are required to attend extra-curricular activities (both at home and away) in order to serve as photographer.  Students are required to return to school AFTER graduation to complete and submit the final pages.  Failure to do so will result in a failing grade in the course.

E-LEARNING ELECTIVES

CTE Introduction to Business / Business Law  E-Learning (9-12) 1 credit

This online course focuses on an introduction to business at an entry-level in which students are introduced to all aspects of business: the domestic and international economies, financial principles, management strategies, administrative and information systems, ethics, and organizational and professional leadership. Students will analyze the elements of the business environment and focus on attitudinal and problem-solving skills inherent to success. This course focuses on an understanding of the court system at the local, state, and national levels. Students will gain an understanding of contract law, their rights and responsibilities as citizens, utilization of financial transactions, employment, and agency relationships, and the understanding of the regulations governing different types of business organizations. Topics include the role of business; economic systems; forms of business; management and marketing principles; financial planning; investment options, court systems; sources of law; criminal law; tort law; contract law; consumer law; and employment law.

CTE Intro To Law, Public Safety, Security & Corrections I E-Learning (9-12) ½ credit 

Exploration of Public Service Careers through this course exposes students to the duties, responsibilities, requirements, and career opportunities within public service. Course topics vary and may include, but are not limited to, public safety, police, fire, emergency services, law, forensics, corrections, fire/EMS, and homeland security issues. Course activities depend upon the career clusters that students explore.

An asterisk (*) designates a required course.

CTE Defined: Career and Technical Education

The goal of the South Dakota Department of Education is for all students to graduate college, career and life ready. The Division of Career and Technical Education (DCTE) provides support for students’ preparations for postsecondary education and the workforce. Services are connected to approved Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs, work-based learning, school counseling and SDMyLife. In-line with the department’s aspiration. DCTE works to ensure students not only graduate from high school, but that they are prepared to navigate the transitions and life events that come after high school. https://doe.sd.gov/cte/

Sioux Valley School District 5-5 does not discriminate in its educational programs on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, age, sex, disability, national origin, ancestry, or family/marital status. For special accommodations, please contact the Special Education Director at 605.627-5657.  Sioux Valley Schools, 200 Hansina Ave, Volga SD 57071.