Fall and Spring semester classes are located at the West Chester University Graduate Center and are scheduled for Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 1:05 pm -1:55 pm. Students will be scheduled to depart from their high school at the conclusion of 6th period and travel by way of their own transportation to the Graduate Center located off of Greenhill Road. Students successfully completing a semester college-level course will receive three college credits from West Chester University and 1 credit from WCASD.

Fall Semester Courses

Elementary Japanese I (11, 12)

Introduction to elementary Japanese with focuses on hearing, speaking, reading, and writing to develop basic competence. Emphasis is on integration of all language skills.

Introduction to Geospatial Technology and Analytics (11, 12)

This course develops critical thinking skills through the exploration of the fundamental components of data analytics in terms of spatial data and geospatial technologies. This includes the basic concepts and skills related to the 3 core areas of analytics, 1) data, 2) analysis, and 3) visualization. Data structures and skills are examined within the context of Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Spreadsheets, database tools, GIS software, and geospatial technology are used to capture, manage, and store spatial data. Analysis tools, such as spreadsheet functions, scripts, and GIS software are used to investigate data sets related to discipline-specific projects. Geovisualization of results are communicated using map applications, dash boards, and story maps.

Introduction to Anthropology: Cultural (11, 12)

This introductory course explores the traditional subjects of cultural anthropology and the field’s growing concern with topics of everyday interest to mainstream U.S. society. Anthropology, in the broadest sense, is the study of humanity; socio-cultural anthropology in particular examines the distinctive and often intangible mechanisms that make us think and act, organize ourselves, and understand and experience the surrounding world the way we do. This course explores social and cultural diversity through a range of themes: economic and political organization, race and ethnicity, kinship and marriage, gender, religion, language, and globalization.

Spring Semester Courses

Elementary Japanese II (11, 12)

Continuation of basic language skills in speaking, reading and writing of modern Chinese with an emphasis on solid training at the beginning level. The course focuses on providing students with the basic vocabulary needed for daily conversation. Elementary reading and limited writing introduced.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Elementary Japanese I

Introduction to Ethics (11, 12)

In complex situations, the study of ethics will help individuals anticipate difficult choices, evaluate competing demands, and think through moral questions. Studying ethics develops background content and critical thinking skills to participate in conversations with others about what is best. These discussions and debates are necessary for contributing to something larger than ourselves. This course will provide an introduction to major theories and contemporary work in moral philosophy and offers tools for ethical decision making in our daily lives with an emphasis on the influence of culture, power, and privilege.

Nutrition and Culture (11, 12)

Our physical and mental wellbeing are greatly impacted by diet and food choices, which are also directly affected by internal and external cultural influences. Culture-specific foods are associated with family traditions and celebrations (and feelings of comfort and pleasure). This course will examine the relationship between nutrition and multicultural practices and will discuss the origins of traditional food preparation, contemporary consumption habits, and disease incidence among the majority and minority populations within the United States.

Summer Semester Courses

Studio Production (11, 12) 1 credit

Every other year, beginning in Summer 2020
This dual enrollment summer class focuses on the production of music in a studio setting. Students learn the basics of recording, editing, mixing, and mastering in a digital audio workstation. Students will be able to record instruments in a studio setting and use appropriate technologies to enhance the final product of their recordings.

Scoring for Film and Television (11, 12) 1 credit

Every other year, beginning in Summer 2021
This dual enrollment summer course serves as an introduction to scoring for film and video. The three tracks of study include training on Logic to score video/film, exploring the basic techniques of film scoring and learning how to listen to music within the context of cinema. Students will listen to music in and out of the context of film to develop a palette that will serve their work in scoring. Students will also be analyzing film soundtracks that will allow them to understand different techniques and aesthetics in scoring. Students will score several short video clips.

Full-School Year Courses

These dual enrollment courses will be taught on site by WCASD teaching staff in cooperation with West Chester University. Students successfully completing this full-year college level course will receive six college credits from West Chester University and 2 credits from WCASD.

Advanced Geoscience: Astronomy and Geology (11, 12)

Blended learning class - 2 days double periods in-class/ 1 day online learning
During the first semester, the students will examine the formation and composition of the universe. In the second semester, students will study the Earth’s history, composition, and processes.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology and Chemistry.

Advanced Geoscience: Oceanography and Meteorology (11, 12)

Blended learning class - 2 days double periods in-class/ 1 day online learning
During the first semester, students will explore the physical and biological processes in the oceans. In the second semester, students will investigate the fundamental processes that determine the weather and climate on Earth.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology and Chemistry.