Courses are listed in alphabetical order.
Not all courses are offered every trimester.
420 American/World Fiction
In the American Fiction section of the class, students will choose between 2 novels written or based in 1960s and 1970s America. In the World Fiction section, students will choose between 2 non-American novels, written by and based in another place and culture. Students will focus on character and plot development, setting, and historical and cultural phenomenon.
Prerequisite: None (This elective may be taken as an English 10 or English 11 make up.)
300, Art - Digital Media 1 (Art or Tech)
Students will learn the fundamentals of digital video. They will begin to develop storyboards, film, edit and present original videos.
Prerequisite: C or higher in 10th grade Technology Applications.
301, Art - Digital Media 2 - Storytelling (Art or Tech)
Students will participate in an advanced video production class.
Prerequisite: C or higher in Digital Media 1
302, Art - Digital Photography 1 (Art)
Students will learn the basics of photography. Topics covered include aperture, shutter speed, composition and lighting. Basic Photoshop techniques will be taught including how to improve photographs. Field trips will be included. Expect assignments outside of class and on weekends.
Prerequisite: None
303, Art - Digital Photography 2 (Art or Tech)
Students will learn both digital and non-digital special effects techniques. Most work will be done in the classroom; however, some assignments will need to be done at night. Comfort with Photoshop is a must. One field trip may be included.
Prerequisite: B or better in Digital Photography 1 or Web Applications. Some camera experience is necessary.
Art - Digital Photography 3 (Art)
Photography III is an advanced photography course. Students work independently on creating a portfolio of quality images. Students learn how to prepare images for display. Students in this course are expected to act as peer tutors for students in Photography I, and assist in managing the equipment.
Prerequisite: Photography 1 and 2.
305, Art – Electronic Art 1 – Adobe Illustrator (Art or Tech)
This class is an intensive introduction to Adobe Illustrator. Students will learn all of the basic tools and functions of the program. Good computer skills are required for this course. To master a complex program such as this takes attention to detail and perseverance. Expect to work hard in this class and study the program. Students will electronically illustrate still life from photographic references as well as create original works of art.
Art – Electronic Art 2 – Photoshop (Art or Tech)
This class will explore the advanced capabilities of Adobe Photoshop. Students are expected to know the basic tools and functions of Photoshop to join this class. Understanding how to solve visual problems with the software and more advanced techniques will be the main focus of this class. Photo editing and manipulation will be cover with an emphasis on quality and seamless realism. The artistic capabilities of Photoshop will also be explored. Students will study light, shadow, and color theory in order to better understand how to create illusions and effects in Photoshop. This is not a class for beginners and students are required to test into the class with a basic Photoshop placement test.
Prerequisite: Electronic Art 1 and/or a Photoshop placement test.
307, Art - Illustration 1 (Art)
This is an introductory Art course. This course consists of two components: a drawing and illustration component where students will complete activities using a variety of media, and an art history component which will include field trips to galleries and museums.
Art - Illustration 2 (Art)
This is a continuation of Art Studio 1. Art history will be explored on a deeper level. Students will experiment with advanced art techniques and styles in order to further develop their ability to render realistic and abstract subject matter. Students will be expected to produce quality finished work under deadlines.
Prerequisite: C or better in Art Illustration.
308, Art - Sequential Art (Art)
Explore the Art of Comics and Graphic Novels. Students will study the history of the medium, its implications and how it is perceived in society.
Students will use hands on Illustration and electronic production to produce a graphic novel entirely of their own creation in either print or electronic format.
Prerequisite: B in Art Illustration or teacher recommendation.
309, Art – Watercolor (Art)
Students will explore the skills and techniques of working with watercolors. Some study of watercolor artists will help student further develop their own techniques.
421, Banned Books
Oops, Harry Potter and the …, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Catcher in the Rye, Go Ask Alice, Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark – (just to name a few) – can’t be mentioned here because they have all been banned. Why? What’s the problem with these books? After all, this is America! Readers have rights, don’t they? The “Banned Books” course will focus on the reading and analysis of several of the more than 100 titles that have been banned from schools and libraries, including the titles mentioned above, and their behind the scenes controversies.
600, CCAC Classes
Students who qualify will take one class at the Allegheny campus of CCAC. The CCAC course will appear on a student’s transcript, but will not have a grade associated with it.
Prerequisite: Students must meet both the City High requirements and, if taking a Math or Science course, the standard set by CCAC on their placement tests.
396 and 397, College Readiness 11, and 12 - Math
Students will review and take sample Math tests as a way of getting ready to take the PSSA Math test in spring of 11th grade.
Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation
392 and 393, College Readiness 11, and 12 - Reading
Students will review and take sample Reading tests as a way of getting ready to take the PSSA Reading test in spring of 11th grade.
450, Conflict and Diplomacy – Model UN
Students will prepare for and participate in a Model United Nations simulation sponsored by a local university. Depending on the trimester, this simulation may take place on a weekend or evening. Students will role-play delegates from a particular country and interact with other student-participants from other high schools as they discuss current events that affect our world today.
426, Creative Writing 1
In this writing course students will explore open writing formats and personal writing styles. Students will complete a variety of writing exercises and as well as units in poetry, fables, short story writing and drama. Each student will compile a personal portfolio at the end of the trimester exhibiting their progress and best work.
Creative Writing 2
This is a continuation of Creative Writing 1. (Creative Writing 1 - In this writing course, students will explore open writing formats and personal writing styles. Students will complete a variety of writing exercises and as well as units in poetry, fables, short story writing and drama. Each student will compile a personal portfolio at the end of the trimester exhibiting their progress and best work.)
Prerequisite: C or higher in Creative Writing 1.
497, Ecology and Earth Science
Student will develop their own definition of Pittsburgh, PA, its ecological needs, and ways to solve real-life environmental problems. The class is designed around action projects which are built on the principles of Science and Sustainability from 10th grade. Students will develop their own projects to Pittsburgh sustainability.
524, Economics – The secrets behind everyday life (Financial Lit or Tech)
Using Stephen Levitt’s book Freakonomics, and Thomas Friedman’s The World is Flat, students will explore the economic incentives behind a variety phenomena including cheating in sports and in schools, drug dealing, crime, racism, parenting, health, the suburbs and the new economy.
498, Engineering - How things work (Science or Tech)
The course attempts to explain the principles behind the technologies which define our modern way of life. The class surveys a broad range of technology including: radio, television, computers, ultrasound, microwave ovens, and the automobile. The course seeks to remove some of the mystery surrounding science and technology. We live in a very complex and accelerated world created through modern technology. We will identify some key concepts from the sciences that are applied frequently in modern technology, and work to obtain an understanding of these principles. The course is intended for the general education of all students, not just those seeking careers in science, engineering, and/or technology.
481, Field Math
This elective will explore the real-world use of Mathematical measuring. Measure the surface of buildings; calculate the height of downtown buildings. Figure out the volume of the Clark Building; figure out the volume of City High’s floors in the Clark Building. Use Geometry to make many of these calculations; use different types of measurements to make these calculations.
410 and 411, Fitness 11 and 12
In 11th ad 12th grade this is an elective. Students will participate in the individualized fitness programming to track and monitor activities and times on task. Students will be issued a temporary membership to the YMCA.
Prerequisite: A passing grade on 9th and 10th grade Fitness.
Students not playing a sport at their home-school can only take one Fitness elective between 11th and 12th grade.
9th and 10th Grade
370, Intro to Design 9th Grade
This is a survey elective for 9th graders. Students will be exposed to the various elements and components available in the fine arts electives.
373, Intro to Design 10th Grade
378, Intro to Desktop Publishing 9th Grade
374, Intro to Desktop Publishing 10th Grade
371, Intro to Digital Media 9th Grade
372, Intro to Music 9th Grade
375, Intro to Music 10th Grade
379, Intro to Programming 9th Grade
377, Intro to Programming 10th Grade
429, Journalism and Yearbook 1
This course will focus on writing to a public audience in a variety of different forms. Students will learn to write descriptively, informatively and persuasively about a variety of topics. The students will collectively compile several publications throughout the trimester.
430, Journalism and Yearbook 2
Students will continue to explore the topics presented in Journalism 1. In addition, students will be asked to assume an editorial role in the classroom and oversee one section of the school paper. This will be done through editing other students' articles and assisting in the layout of the paper. Journalism 2 students will also be asked to complete a detailed piece of investigative journalism throughout the trimester.
Prerequisite: Journalism 1.
457, Latin American – People and Environment
Students will study the politics, culture, language, and physical environment of Costa Rica. The course will culminate in a 7-day trip to Costa Rica to study these topics first hand.
Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation.
454, Law and Society - Mock Trial
Students will prepare for and participate in the state-wide Mock Trial competition sponsored by the Pennsylvania Bar Association. They will role-play the part of lawyers and witnesses and compete against other area schools in evening competitions. The best team in the city will advance to state finals in Harrisburg!
536, Marketing (Financial Lit or Tech)
Students will design, implement and market a promotion campaign for a small business.
399, Mathematical Modeling
Mathematical modeling is an area of mathematics in which an individual focuses on modeling everything from engineering, environmental, manufacturing, and industrial processes. Students will work in small groups/teams designing and creating models such as data tables, graphs, lists, matrices, and other forms of organizing data. The course will teach students how to create these models and how to use them in other areas. We will be exploring topics like, how to inflate a parachute, gas prices, ocean bottom topography, and modeling how to wash away an island as a few examples.
482, Mathematical Modeling - Advanced
Mathematical modeling is an area of mathematics in which an individual focuses on modeling real world situations. Students will work in small groups/teams designing and creating models such as data tables, graphs, lists, matrices, and other forms of organized data in order to explore mathematical concepts. The course covers a variety of topics in the areas of Algebra 2, Trigonometry, and Pre-calculus. The first unit of the course focuses on strengthening key Algebra skills by providing extensions to topics from the IMP/IMP honors course to broaden students understanding. The second unit introduces fundamental Trigonometry concepts through exploration and group work. The third unit focuses on modeling and discovering conic sections - circles, parabolas, ellipses, hyperbolas.
495 and 496, Medical Science 1 and 2
Explore the field of medicine and learn about your body, diseases and disorders, treatments commonly used, and prevention techniques. This course will be a combination of classroom learning, labs, and experiences in the different fields of medicine, including neurology, cardiology, pediatrics, and many more. If you are thinking of a career in the medical field, you'll want to take this course.
Prerequisite: None (This elective may be taken as a Science 11 make up.)
456, Modern America 1968 - PresentStudents will study the major events that occurred between 1968 and the present. Students will use primary source material - video, still photography and audio – to study the major events from this time period.
Prerequisite: None. (This elective may be taken as a History 10 make up.)
350 and 351, Music – Chorus 1, 2 (Art)
Students will perform music from various periods ranging from the Renaissance to modern music. Students will take an in-depth look at performance practices from each era and will study cultural connections behind each style of music. Students will be expected to attend all concerts that the chorus performs through out the school year.
353, Music - Digital Music 1 (Art or Tech)
Students will learn to use Coda Music’s Print Music Software and portable electric pianos to compose music. Students will learn basics of note reading, rhythm and how to use midi devices. Expect homework.
354, Music - Digital Music 2 (Art or Tech)
Perfect for any student that wants to create music, but not necessarily interested in notation. This course covers how to use the PC in digital production—composing, editing and mixing. Students will use software like Reason and other editing tools to create unique pieces of music.
Prerequisite: None. (Students who have previous discipline referrals for unacceptable use of technology related to file sharing will be discouraged. This is not for students who are only interested in listening to music and downloading! Expect homework.)
355, Music - Digital Music 3 (Art or Tech)
Perfect for any student that wants an advanced course to create music with its notation. This course covers how to use the PC in digital production—composing, editing and mixing. Students will use software like Reason and other editing tools to create unique pieces of music.
Prerequisite: D-Music 1 and D-Music 2
356, Music – Drumming 1 (Art)
Students will examine the cultures of Latin America, West Africa and the Caribbean Islands through a study of each culture’s fold music. Students will sing, drum and dance in the style of each culture. Performances will be part of this elective.
Music – Drumming 2 (Art)
Do you ever wonder where R&B and Hip-Hop got their roots? Come and explore musical traditions of West Africa, Cuba, and Latin America that have led to the development of popular music today. This course will help you read musical notation, develop a better sense of rhythm, and give you a sense of pride in creating your own compositions drawing from different styles of music. A good attitude and willingness to learn are all you need for this class…the rest comes naturally!
Prerequisite: Drumming 1
357 and 358, Music – Guitar 1 and 2 (Art)
Want to be more than a Guitar Hero on the weekends? If so, sign up for Intro to Guitar! In this course, you will learn the basics of written music notation including tablature (tab), reading rhythms, chord symbols, and how to play melodies on the guitar. No prior music knowledge is needed, but a sincere desire to learn is required. This course is designed to the needs of each individual learner, and outside work and practice is expected.
Prerequisite: Guitar 1 – None Guitar 2 – Prerequisite: Guitar 1
372, Music – Introduction (Art)
Have you ever wanted to be a performer? Do you enjoy singing, dancing, playing instruments, or all of the above? If so, this is the class for you! In this course, we will be taking a hands-on approach to vocal music, drumming methods, composition and performing. No matter if you are a soprano, alto, tenor or bass, there is a place for you! If you don’t know what you are, there is STILL a place for you. All skill levels are welcomed as we will learn together and build a strong musical community!
422, Poetry - Spoken Word
In Spoken Word Poetry, students analyze HBO Def Poetry performances and create their own spoken word poems to perform for their peers. Students learn how to use and enhance message, movement, intonation, enunciation, and figurative language in their poem performances. Student performances are taped and students analyze their own delivery in the same way that they analyze professional poetry performances.
529, Programming – Java (Tech)
This course introduces students to the object-oriented programming language of Java. Students will develop simple Java applications that can run on the Web.
Prerequisite: C or higher in Intro to Programming and teacher recommendation.
532, Programming - Visual Basic VB (Tech)
This course introduces students to developing applications for a Windows environment using Visual Basic.Net. The course emphasizes designing graphical user interfaces/dialogues and event-driven programming.
427, Public Speaking
A course that focuses on building skills and confidence in oral communication to a public audience.
533, Robotics – FIRST (Tech)In this course, you'll learn fundamental skills while creating several types of diagrams such as a directional map, a block diagram, a basic and a cross-functional flowchart, an organization chart, and an office layout. In addition you will learn to use Microsoft Office Project Professional 2003 as a tool to assist them in managing projects. The topics in this course cover the critical skills necessary to create and modify a project plan file that contains tasks, resources, and resource assignments. This course is required for entrance into the Robotics – Production class.
Prerequisite: C or higher in 10th grade Technology Applications, recommendation by your math teacher and successfully completion of the Enterprise and Consumer Literacy class.
535, Small Business (Financial Lit or Tech)
Everything you need to know to create, launch, and operate any small business successfully, from preparing a business plan to launching the venture. The course will offer how to facilitate decision making regarding starting a new business; to review basic business-operating procedures and discuss the economics of running a business.
Prerequisite: None (This elective may be taken as a Financial Lit 10 make up.)
400, Spanish 1
This is an introduction to Spanish. Students explore the language in terms of culture and construction. An oral component is part of this introductory class. Spanish 1 is a two trimester course. Each half counts as one elective.
401, Spanish 2
This is a continuation of Spanish 1. Students further explore the language and Spanish speaking countries and the construction of the language. The oral component begun is Spanish 1 is expanded. Spanish 2 is a two trimester course.
Prerequisite: Spanish 1
402, Spanish 3
This is a continuation of Spanish 2. Students further explore the language and Spanish speaking countries and the construction of the language. The oral experience begun is Spanish, 1 expanded in Spanish 2, is a large component of third year Spanish. Spanish 3 is a two trimester course. Each half counts as one elective.
Prerequisite: Spanish 1, 2
403, Spanish 4
This is a continuation of Spanish 3. Students further explore the language and Spanish speaking countries and the construction of the language. The oral experience begun is Spanish, 1 and expanded in Spanish 2 and 3, is a large component of fourth year Spanish. The class is conducted exclusively in Spanish. Spanish 4 is a two trimester course. Each half counts as one elective.
Prerequisite: Spanish 1, 2, 3
394, Strategies –Math 9
Students will learn to use different strategies to problem solve, to attack mathematical skills – computation, memorization. This course is designed to support students who need added time and experience with Mathematics.
395, Strategies –Math 10
Students will continue to use different strategies to problem solve, to attack mathematical skills – computation, memorization. This course is designed to support students who need added time and experience with Mathematics.
390, Strategies – Reading 9Students will use different strategies to improve their independent reading skills. Students will make connections, inferences, and predictions as they read and will be able to support their thoughts with examples from the text. Graphic organizers will also be used to improve comprehension skills. In the first trimester, the Strategies class supports students as they read a novel for Cultural Literacy. The second half of the course is focused on improving individual reading skills. Independent reading activities are geared to support individual strengths and weaknesses.
391, Strategies – Reading 10There is more focus on informational, non-fiction text in the 10th Grade Reading Strategies course. Students will be able to identify different techniques used in non-fiction writing in order to improve their focus and comprehension. In the first trimester, the entire class will also read a novel and use graphic organizers to support comprehension. Students will be able to form their own thoughts and reactions and support them with specific examples from the text. In the second half of the course, students will choose their own novel and complete an independent reading project.
423, Text to Film
Students will examine 5 books that have been made into films. Students will explore how films change, expand, or destroy the story told in a book. Students will also examine the elements of film and how a director uses these elements to create characters, tone, mood and settings.
424, Writing Short Fiction
Short Fiction Writing is a class in which students read, analyze, and create three different forms of short narrative fiction: flash fiction, short-short fiction, and short stories. We dissect and experiment with literary devices, elements, and narrative structure. Each student receives at least one workshop and participates in several revisions throughout the class. Students interest is highly influential in determining what we read and write. The final project consists of a thorough revision, conference, and editing process in which students create their best creative short fiction piece.