Health & Social Sciences
Students focus on understanding and serving people through medicine and the social sciences. Electives provide opportunities to explore the biomedical field, health careers, leadership and the social/psychological needs and development of people.
Possible Careers: Administrator, Art Therapist, Athletic Trainer, Biochemist, Bioengineer, Child Care Provider, Clinical Psychologist, Community Service Director, Corrections Officer, Day-Care Facility Director, Dental Hygienist, Doctor, EMT/Paramedic Lab Technician, Geneticist, Home Health Aide, Licensed Practical Nurse, Medical Laboratory Technician, Nutritionist, Occupational Therapist ,Pharmacist, Pharmacy Assistant, Physical Therapist, Physician Assistant, Principal, Psychologist, Radiologic Technician, Registered Nurse, School Counselor, School Psychologist, Social Worker, Speech Pathologist, Surgeon, Teacher, Toxicologist, Veterinarian
Health & Sciences Offerings
Course Offerings
Biomedical Sciences
PLTW Principles of Biomedical Sciences
Introductory
Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: None
Length: 2 Semesters
This course is part of the Project Lead the Way Biomedical Sciences program. Students explore the concepts of human medicine and are introduced to research processes and bioinformatics. Hands-on projects enable students to investigate human body systems and various health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, sickle-cell disease, hypercholesterolemia and infectious diseases. Students work together to determine the factors that led to the death of a fictional person and will investigate lifestyle choices and medical treatments that might have prolonged the person’s life. This course has a strong online component. In order to be successful students must be self-directed and comfortable using technology as a learning tool. Curriculum is updated periodically and course content may vary.
Emergency Medical Responder (EMR)
Introductory (SW Metro Offering)
Grade: 11, 12
Prerequisite: None
Length: 2 Semesters
Medical training required of firefighters and law enforcement, students will learn about emergency services, advance first aid, and health care provider CPR. This course includes a focus on learning anatomy and physiology and provides many field experiences to do hands on skills.
PLTW Human Body Systems
Intermediate
Grade: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: None
Length: 2 Semesters
This course is part of the Project Lead the Way Biomedical Sciences program. Using real-world cases, students take the role of biomedical professionals and work together to solve medical mysteries. Hands-on projects include designing experiments, investigating the structures and functions of body systems by using data acquisition software to monitor body functions such as muscle movement, reflex and voluntary actions and respiratory operation. This course has a strong online component. In order to be successful in this guided research couse, students must be self-directed, organized and comfortable using technology as a learning tool. Curriculum is updated periodically and course content may vary.
Emergency Medical Technician
Intermediate (SW Metro Offering)
Grade: 11, 12
Prerequisite: Emergency Medical Responder (EMR)
Length: 2 Semesters
EMTs are clinicians, trained to respond quickly to emergency situations regarding medical issues, traumatic injuries and accident scenes. EMTs are often employed by ambulance services, governments, and hospitals, but are also sometimes employed by fire departments (and seen on fire apparatus), in police departments (and seen on police vehicles), and there are many firefighter/EMTs and police officer/EMTs. EMTs operate under a limited scope of practice and are typically supervised by a medical director, who is a physician. First Aid/CPR and EMR certifications are a prerequisite to this semester long course.
PLTW Medical Interventions
Intermediate
Grade: 11, 12
Prerequisite: PLTW Human Body Systems OR PLTW Principles of Biomedical Science OR AP Biology OR Biology OR Concurrent enrollment in AP Biology or Biology
Length: 2 Semesters
This course is part of the Project Lead the Way Biomedical Sciences program. Student projects will investigate various medical interventions that extend and improve quality of life, including gene therapy, pharmacology, surgery, prosthetics, rehabilitation and supportive care. The course explores the design and development of various medical interventions, including cochlear implants and prosthetic limbs. In addition, students review the history of organ transplants and gene therapy and stay updated on cutting edge developments via current scientific literature. Curriculum is updated periodically and course content may vary.
PLTW Biomedical Innovation
Advanced
Grade: 11, 12
Prerequisite: Two of the following: PLTW Human Body Systems OR PLTW Principles of Biomedical Science OR PLTW Medical Interventions
Length: 2 Semesters
Students design innovative solutions for the health challenges of the 21st century. They work through problems addressing topics such as clinical medicine, physiology, biomedical engineering and public health. They have the opportunity to work on a project with a mentor/advisor from a university, hospital, research institution, or the biomedical industry. Throughout the course, students are expected to present their work to an audience of STEM professionals. Curriculum is updated periodically and course content may vary.
Nursing Assistant Registered (NAR)
Advanced (SW Metro offering)
Grade: 11, 12
Prerequisite: None
Length: 1 Semester
This course is a nursing assistant course approved through Minnesota Department of Health. Clinical rotations are conducted at Auburn Manor in Chaska. Students will learn curriculum and skills required to take the Minnesota Nursing Assistant Registry Exam.
Food Sciences
Nutrition & Foods
Introductory
Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: None
Length: 1 Semester
This course is designed to teach students nutrition and food preparation techniques. Students examine how health relates to diet and explore the science of food. Students will prepare a variety of foods that illustrate how good nutrition can be integrated into daily diets.
International Foods
Intermediate
Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: Nutrition & Foods
Length: 1 Semester
Students will explore the cuisines of China, Greece, India, Italy, Mexico and Thailand. They learn the impact of geography, climate, culture, religion and history on what people eat. Students learn techniques for the preparation of traditional foods from these countries as well as explore cuisines from around the world. Students have the opportunity to participate in an international foods event outside of the classroom.
Culinary Arts & Science
Advanced
Grade: 11, 12
Prerequisite: International Foods
Length: 2 Semesters
This course uses the skills learned in Nutrition and Foods and International Foods to build on advanced food cooking techniques. We will explore the relationship between cooking and science through labs such as candy making, cake decorating, breads, pastries, and more. Students will explore career opportunities in the area of culinary arts and food science.
Health & Sports Sciences
Competitive Team Sports
Intermediate
Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: None
Length: 1 Semester
This course is designed to enhance students’ interest in a variety of sports and activities. Students will participate in physical activity through team sports via tournament play. Opportunities will be provided for participation in team sports such as: basketball, soccer, flag football, badminton, volleyball, team handball, floor hockey, and others. Daily participation will be expected for this course.
Leadership Training
Introductory
Grade: 9, 10
Prerequisite: None
Length: 1 Semester
Students will learn the skills necessary to become an effective leader. Students will use team-building games, journaling, self-reflection and various group activities to enhance their leadership abilities. Leadership skills will be used to promote an awareness and understanding of emotional/physical limitations, communication skills, personal confidence and team-building. A fee will be required for students to take part in an adventure field trip. Each student will be expected to develop and implement a group service learning project.
PEERS (CNHS offering)
Introductory
Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: Instructor approval
Length: 1 Semester
Students will learn how to support students with disabilities in a variety of skills, role play social situations, and be a peer-mentor for these students. This is an excellent leadership opportunity, and the instructors are looking for great role models to enroll in the class. This class does meet credit requirements for a general education elective class.
Recreational/Leisure Sports
Introductory
Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: None
Length: 1 Semester
Do you want to be active in a more casual atmosphere? Students will engage in lifetime physical activities that will enhance their overall well-being. Throughout the course, learning will encompass activities that include but are not limited to: golf, bowling, frisbee golf, badminton, pickleball, tennis, group fitness, and yard games. Daily participation will be expected for this course.
Strength & Performance 1
Introductory
Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: None
Length: 1 Semester
This class is designed for the student with limited experience in strength training. Students will learn weight room safety for both machines and free weights, technique of basic to intermediate lifts, basic anatomy, nutrition and opposing muscle grouping. Students will participate in plyometric, speed and agility training and pre/post baseline strength tests. Students will follow instructor designed strength programs for a portion of the semester and then learn how to design, implement and follow strength programs. Daily participation will be expected for this course.
Health Career Explorations
Intermediate
Grade: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: None
Length: 1 Semester
Becoming a doctor or a nurse is not your only career option in health care. This course will provide students an opportunity to explore over 30 health related careers through classroom speakers, visits to health care providers and volunteer opportunities. Students will identify personal areas of strength and interest and begin to develop a resume of experiences that are important in health related courses of study in admission to post-secondary schools. Any student thinking about opportunities in the health field will find this experience valuable and informative. A field trip fee will be assessed for participants in this class.
Leadership & Sports Management
Intermediate
Grade: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: Leadership Training recommended
Length: 1 Semester
This course will provide students with the opportunity to identify the qualities of effective leadership, practice leadership skills in the school and community, and learn the knowledge and skills necessary for a career in a health or sports and fitness management field. Students will have the opportunity to develop in areas such as: project management/service learning, personal leadership team and group dynamics, communication, conflict management, networking, business/marketing/ administration and psychology of sport/fitness.
Strength & Performance 2
Intermediate
Grade: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: Strength & Performance 1
Length: 1 Semester
This class is designed for students with experience in strength training and conditioning. Students will learn how nutrition affects performance, activity/sports specific program development, multi-joint lifting and the importance of vertical and horizontal movement. All students will participate in pre/post baseline strength and conditioning test, explosive lifting for sports, speed and agility training and body composition testing, as well as cardiovascular training. Students are expected to develop and modify personal training plans throughout the semester. Daily participation is expected for this course.
Stress Management
Intermediate
Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: None
Length: 1 Semester
If you want to stop letting your life control you and start controlling your life, this class is a must! The goal of this class is to provide students with a holistic approach to prevent, reduce, and manage unhealthy stress. Students will learn how each dimension of health (physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and social) can be managed for a more balanced approach to stress management. Students will complete a variety of stress self-assessments and practice specific stress reduction techniques, making this a classroom and activity based learning experience.
Student Athletic Training
Intermediate
Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: None
Length: 1 Semester
Student Athletic Training is a course designed for those students interested in possibly pursuing a career in the field of sports medicine. In this course students will study anatomy, physiology, prevention and care of sport related injury and participate in job shadowing activities. The goal for this course is to provide students with an accurate picture of sport medicine related job fields and develop basic knowledge and skill as it relates to athletic injury prevention and care.
Nursing Assistant Registered (NAR)
Advanced (SW Metro offering)
Grade: 11, 12
Prerequisite: None
Length: 1 Semester
This course is a nursing assistant course approved through Minnesota Department of Health. Clinical rotations are conducted at Auburn Manor in Chaska. Students will learn curriculum and skills required to take the Minnesota Nursing Assistant Registry Exam.
Social Science
Child Development 1
Introductory
Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: None
Length: 1 Semester
In this course students will examine child psychology/development from the prenatal stage to age three. Topics include: fetal stages, birth, newborn and infant care, and toddler development. The course will also include physical, intellectual, social and emotional development and child development theories.
Criminal Justice 1
Introductory
Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: None
Length: 1 Semester
Americans don’t have to look far to see the importance of criminal justice. Every day, we are alerted to the occurrence of crime and the subsequent dilemma of what to do when criminal behavior occurs. Contemporary society is significantly impacted by the presence (and threat) of criminal activity and political leaders struggle with finding solutions to the issues as they occur. Some thoughts that arise in the wake of criminal events include:
- What are the systemic issues that lead to criminal behavior?
- How do we reduce instances of crime?
- Does our legal system do enough to curtail criminal action?
- What do we do to bring justice to the victims of crime?
- How do we effectively punish the offenders?
- Is incarceration the most effective solution or are rehabilitation programs a good alternative?
- What do we do when the offenders are juveniles?
- Is capital punishment an effective deterrent to crime?
- What does law enforcement need to do to stay pace with criminals using twenty-first century technology?
- What role does the current media play with regard to attitudes about criminal behavior?
In Criminal Justice, students will be introduced to the complex, relevant, and often controversial issues of crime, punishment, legislation, law enforcement, media reporting and other essential topics. Students will explore past and current case studies and examine different approaches to addressing criminal behavior. Historical ideas and comparison of other civilizations’ approach to criminal justice will be examined. Current events and contemporary episodes will be analyzed as a means to explore the course topics. Students interested in this course should be prepared for a vigorous, multi-faceted, and interactive examination of the many ethical and challenging issues that surround this topic.
Child Development 2
Intermediate
Grade: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: Child Development 1
Length: 1 Semester
In this course students will study the physical, intellectual, social and emotional development of the child during the preschool years to age 12. Students will also examine the components of a successful preschool program and learn about careers that include working with children. This will prepare them to design lessons and teach children in the popular Storm and Little Hawks preschool programs.
Philosophy & Ethics
Intermediate
Grade: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: None
Length: 1 Semester
This course is offered for inquisitive students who are looking for an exciting, enriching and relevant study of the world’s great ideas of philosophy, religion and government systems. This student-centered curriculum places a high value on group discussion and presentation of student ideas. Students will explore classic thoughts in the social sciences while examining their application to the contemporary world. An extensive look at ethics and moral development are features of the course.
Psychology
Intermediate
Grade: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: None
Length: 1 Semester
What is a greater influence on human behavior, nature or nurture? In Psychology, students will be introduced to the concepts, theories and research that attempt to explain human behavior and mental processes and the different perspectives which have been identified to examine these ideas. Further, students will look at the bewildering aspects of psychological disorders, addictive behaviors, violence and bullying and the work being done by psychologists to explain why such behaviors are on the rise. Learn why psychology is one of the most popular and important college majors in the United States.
Sociology
Intermediate
Grade: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: None
Length: 1 Semester
Sociology stresses the social perspective, focusing on individual behaviors and how those behaviors are influenced by society. Students will examine diverse viewpoints through theoretical models of sociology. Students will develop their sociological imaginations by critically examining the foundations of society, social institutions, and inequalities. Units of study include: The Sociological Perspective, Culture & Socialization, Social Structure & Interaction, Social Class, Race & Ethnicity, Sex & Gender and Deviance & Social Control. An understanding of the relationship between self and society will empower students to address problems in their community. A college level textbook is used.
Teen Issues
Intermediate
Grade: 11, 12
Prerequisite: None
Length: 1 Semester
The purpose of this course is to present sound, factual and objective information on issues that are important to teens. Areas of discussion will include: values, decision making, stress, sexuality, mate selection, chemical use, divorce and abusive behavior.
Criminal Justice 2
Intermediate
Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: Criminal Justice 1
Length: 1 Semester
Criminal Justice 2 is a project based course allowing students the experience of in depth research and analysis of past and present case studies in the areas of both crime and justice. The course will focus on research methods of criminology, theories of deviance, violence in society, social problems, as well as relevant current event issues. Class discussions, debates, presentations, papers, and variety of technology methods will be utilized as students attempt to discover some solutions to criminology's key issues.
Family Systems
Advanced
Grade: 11, 12
Prerequisite: One introductory AND one intermediate course within the Social Science program of study.
Length: 1 Semester
In this course, students will explore and discuss concerns facing individuals and families in our rapidly changing society. Topics include: the history of family, dating, teen parenting, marriage and the various family types. For the project students will apply knowledge of basic family functions to family life across cultures.
21st Century Issues
Advanced
Grade: 11, 12
Prerequisite: None
Length: 1 Semester
The 21st Century Issues course gives students the opportunity to pursue their passion and create their own project. Students will examine some of the dramatic and controversial topics facing our rapidly changing world and create their own original action plan to learn and share their findings. Projects will problem-based, solution oriented, and have either a global or local emphasis drawing from the social sciences.
AP Psychology
Advanced
Grade: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: None
Length: 1 Semester
Psychology is defined as the scientific study of human behavior and mental processes. It relates to the whole human experience – everything people think, feel, and do. AP Psychology will serve as an in-depth examination of the field of Psychology and the many varying topics that it includes. Students will be challenged to think about psychological concepts and ideas at a deeper level of processing.
Introduction to Education
Advanced
(Concurrent enrollment through Normandale Community College)
(Concurrent enrollment through Normandale Community College)
Grade: 11, 12
Prerequisite: Cumulative GPA minimum based on grade level: 12th: 2.500; 11th: 3.000
OR
Nationally normed test rank: 12th: 50%; 11th: 70%; 10th/9th: 90%
OR
Have an approved ability to benefit waiver
AND
Reading at the College Level as demonstrated on one of these tests: ACT, MCA OR Accuplacer
OR
Have an approved ability to benefit waiver if not used in step 1.
Length: 1 Semester
Introduction to Education provides an overview of the education profession and the U.S. educational system, including historical development, social foundations and educational institutions. Other topics include current theories, trends and issues in education and the community, certification standards, roles and responsibilities of teachers, learners, and other school personnel. Every student must complete a 25-hour field experience in an area school.
Multicultural Education & Human Relations in Schools
Advanced
(Concurrent enrollment through Normandale Community College)
(Concurrent enrollment through Normandale Community College)
Grade: 11, 12
Prerequisite: Introduction to Education
And Cumulative GPA minimum based on grade level: 12th: 2.500; 11th: 3.000
Length: 1 Semester
Introduces pre-service teachers to core concepts and approaches to multicultural education including issues related to student, family, and community diversity based on culture, language, race, class, gender, sexual identity, and disability. Issues discourses, hierarchy of education with regards to privilege, equity and access to high quality education are topics addressed as students use knowledge of their life experiences and those of diverse students in urban and rural public schools and learn culturally and linguistically responsive classroom strategies. Emphasis is placed on demonstrating the multicultural competence required of all successful teachers working with today's diverse youth. Field experience hours are part of the course.