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The information below is designed to help students make decisions concerning the classes they will take next school year and outlines the High School Course Registration Process.

1 - Eighth Grade Students will be provided their Registration Form at a meeting with a member of the Gordon Central Faculty in the Ashworth Middle School Media Center on Tuesday, February 13. Students' parents will be invited to attend the meetings, but parents are not required to attend for students to register for high school.

The academic courses the Eighth Grade Teachers recommend Students take are based on their current placement, success in that placement, and test scores and will be highlighted on the Front side of the Registration Form.

Academic courses students take as freshmen include 9th. Literature/Composition, Algebra*, Environmental Science, Government, and Health/Personal Fitness. *(Students identified as needing additional support in mathematics will take Algebra Support in addition to Algebra. Students who successfully took Honors Algebra in ninth grade will take Honors Geometry.)

2 - Students will take their Registration Form home and review their academic recommendations with their parent(s)/guardian(s) after the meetings.

All students are required to select a Pathway and complete three sequential courses within their chosen Pathway.  This is noted in the Graduation Requirements below where you see CTAE (Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education), Fine Arts, or Foreign Language.  Pathways are available in the following areas: Agriculture; Artificial Intelligence; Audio-Video Technology & Film; Automotive Technology; Band; Chorus; Cloud Computing; Construction; Dramatic Arts; Engineering, Drafting, & Design; Graphic Design; Health Science; Industrial Maintenance; Journalism-Yearbook; JROTC; Spanish; Teaching as a Profession; Theater Technology; Visual Arts; and Welding. Physical Education is not an area that can be selected as a Pathway, but students are welcome to select PE courses as electives. Designation of a student's Pathway as well as other electives students would like to take is done on the Back side of the Registration Form.

3 - Students need to select a Pathway and write their intended Pathway in the space provided on the back of their Registration Form and rank the electives they would most like to take next year 1 through 6.

A student's first elective choice (designated by a 1) must be the first course in their chosen Pathway. The exception to this rule is when the first course in a selected Pathway is not available until 10th. Grade (Health Science & Welding). In addition, if a student wants to take Band, Chorus, or JROTC all year, that must be noted in their selections. For example, if a student wants Chorus to be their Pathway, they will write Chorus on the line next to the word Pathway at the top of the form, and if they want to be in it all year, they will put a 1 by Beginning Choral Ens. 1 (1st. Sem.) and a 2 by Beginning Choral Ens. 2 (2nd. Sem.).

4 - After reviewing the academic recommendations with their parent(s)/guardian(s), selecting a Pathway as well as Pathway and Elective courses (ranking them 1-6), and having a parent/guardian sign, students need to return their Registration Form to their Teacher at Ashworth Middle School.

Please understand that due to limited space available in courses, there is no guarantee a student will get the Pathway courses or elective courses they want as a freshman, but every effort will be made to accommodate student selections.

Questions regarding High School Registration can be directed to Gordon Central High School Registrar Deanna Chastain at 706-879-5176 or dchastain@gcbe.org.

To Graduate with Honors, a student must earn 28 credits, have an Unrounded Weighted Academic Grade Point Average (GPA) of 90 or above by the End of the First Semester of their Senior Year, and Eight of their Academic Courses (English, Math, Science, Social Studies, and Foreign Language) must be designated Honors, AP (Advanced Placement), or Dual Enrollment.

Class Rank is based on students’ 100 Point Weighted Academic Grade Point Averages.  Grades for Honors, AP, and Dual Enrollment courses are weighted (or receive additional points) for class ranking purposes.  Five additional points are added to the final average of Honors Level courses, and ten additional points are added to the final average of AP and Dual Enrollment courses.  Additional points added to Honors, AP (Advanced Placement), and Dual Enrollment courses for class ranking does not change students’ grades in those courses.

In high school, students take End-of-Course Assessments (EOC’s) to assess student achievement in four core courses.  EOC’s count as 20% of students’ final grades in these courses.  The EOC courses are Algebra , Biology, American Literature & Composition, and United States History.

Refer to these course descriptions for information about the electives offered to freshmen at GCHS.

AGRICULTURE

Basic Agricultural Science
This course introduces the major areas of scientific agricultural production and research; presents problem solving lessons and introductory skills and knowledge in agricultural science and agri-related technologies.  Classroom and laboratory activities are supplemented through supervised agricultural experiences and leadership programs and activities.

General Horticulture
This course introduces the major concepts of plant and horticulture science. Classroom and laboratory activities are supplemented through supervised agricultural experiences and leadership programs and activities.  * Prerequisite:  Basic Agricultural Science.

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

Foundations of Artificial Intelligence
This course prepares students to better understand common Artificial Intelligence applications and to apply their knowledge to solve real-world problems using advanced technologies.  This course explores the foundations of Artificial Intelligence in society and the workplace, including programming, data science, mathematical reasoning, creative problem solving, ethical reasoning, and real-world applications of Artificial Intelligence.  Students will learn the foundational skills to understand how to both interact and develop Artificial Intelligence solutions in a variety of settings.

Artificial Intelligence Concepts
In this course, students will build upon their foundational understanding of Artificial Intelligence and deepen their understanding of Artificial Intelligence and machine learning concepts.  This course emphasizes the use of data science and programming to solve problems.  * Prerequisite: Foundations of Artificial Intelligence.

AUDIO-VIDEO TECHNOLOGY AND FILM

Audio and Video Technology and Film

This course prepares students for employment or entry into a postsecondary education program in the audio and video technology career field. Topics covered may include, but are not limited to: terminology, safety, basic equipment, script writing, production teams, production and programming, lighting, recording and editing, studio production, and professional ethics. All material utilized in Audio and Video Technology and Film will be utilized in subsequent courses.

AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY

Automotive Technologies 1
Students in this course sequence will learn the basic skills needed to gain employment as an entry level automotive technician.  Students will be exposed to automotive preventative maintenance, brakes, steering and suspension, electrical systems, engine repair, engine performance, automatic transmission, manual transmission and differential, and automotive HVAC.

BAND

If a student wants to be in Band all year, they must select both Beginning Band 1 and Beginning Band 2.

CHORUS

If a student wants to be in Chorus all year, they must select both Beginning Choral Ensemble1 and Beginning Choral Ensemble 2.

CLOUD COMPUTING

Introduction to Software Technology
Introduction to Software Technology is the foundational course for Cloud Computing.  This course is designed for high school students to understand, communicate, and adapt to a digital world as it impacts their personal life, society, and the business world.  Exposure to foundational knowledge in programming languages, software development, app creation, and user interfacing applications are all taught in a computer lab with hands-on activities and project-focused tasks.

Computer Science Principles
Computer Science Principles is a course that is focused on building a solid understanding and foundation in computer science.  Computer Science Principles emphasizes the content, practices, thinking, and skills central to the discipline of computer science.  Computer Science Principles will fall into these computational thinking practices: connecting computing, developing computational artifacts, abstracting, analyzing problems and artifacts, communicating, and collaborating. AP Computer Science Principles introduces students to the foundational concepts of the field and challenges them to explore how computing and technology can impact the world. * Prerequisite: Introduction to Software Technology.

CONSTRUCTION

Industry Fundamentals and Occupational Safety
This course is the foundational course that prepares students for a pursuit of any career in the field of construction.  It prepares the student for the basic knowledge to function safely on or around a construction site and in the industry in general.  This course explains the safety obligations of workers, supervisors, and managers to ensure a safe workplace.  Course content discusses the causes and results of accidents and the dangers of rationalizing risks.  It includes the basic content of OSHA 10-hour safety standards.  It also includes the basic knowledge and skills needed in the following areas: construction math, hand and power tools used in the field, general blueprints, and basics of rigging safety.

DRAMATIC ARTS

Dramatic Arts

The Dramatic Arts courses develop and apply performance skills through access to basic vocal, physical, and emotional exercises; including improvisation and scene study and related technical art forms.  Students can earn a Pathway in Dramatic Arts by completing three sequential Dramatic Arts courses.  If a student wants to be in Dramatic Arts all year, they must select both Theater Arts Fundamentals 1 and Theater Arts Fundamentals 2.

ENGINEERING, DRAFTING, & DESIGN

The Engineering, Drafting and Design Pathway teaches students drafting techniques through the study of geometric construction.  Students also learn about Computer-Aided Drafting and multi-view drawing.  * Students who select Engineering as a Pathway must wait until their 10th Grade year to begin taking courses in the Engineering, Drafting, and Design Pathway.

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Introduction to Graphics and Design
The goal of this course is to provide all students with an introduction to the principles of graphic communications and design and its place in the world.  This course should also help students to use computers effectively in their lives, thus providing a foundation for successfully integrating their own interests and careers with the resources of a technological society.  In this course, high school students can acquire a fundamental understanding of the graphic communications and design world.  They can learn the theories behind creating aesthetically pleasing designs and how to work with consumers.  Exposure to career possibilities and discussion of ethical issues relating to graphic communications and design should also be important threads in this course.  Graphic Communications is defined as the processes and industries that create, develop, produce, and disseminate products utilizing or incorporating words or pictorial images to convey information, ideas, and feelings.  GC products facilitate learning, enjoyment, motivation, and commerce.  Graphic Communications includes the family of market segments embracing the technologies of printing, publishing, packaging, electronic imaging, and their allied industries; they are often referred to as the graphic arts, print, or imaging industries.  Graphic design is the process of communicating visually using typography and images to present information.  Graphic design practice embraces a range of cognitive skills, aesthetics, and crafts, including typography, visual arts, and page layout.  Like other forms of design, graphic design often refers to both the process (designing) by which the communication is created and the products (designs) which are generated.

Graphic Design and Production
This course focuses on the procedures commonly used in the graphic communication and design industries. Students will gain experience in creative problem solving and the practical implementation of those solutions across multiple areas of graphic communications. *Prerequisite: Introduction to Graphics and Design.

HEALTH SCIENCE

A Pathway in Health Science is appropriate for students wishing to pursue a career in the Healthcare Industry.  * Students who select Health Science as a Pathway must wait until their 10th Grade year to begin taking courses in the Health Science Pathway.

 INDUSTRIAL MAINTENANCE

Industrial Mechanics
This course introduces and emphasizes the basic skill necessary for mechanical maintenance personnel.  Instruction is also provided in the basic physics concepts applicable to the mechanics of industrial production equipment, and the application of mechanical principles with additional emphasis on power transmission and specific mechanical components.

Fluid Power and Piping Systems
This course provides instruction in the fundamentals of safely operating hydraulic pneumatic and pump and piping systems.  Theory and practical application concepts are discussed.  Topics include hydraulic system principles and components, pneumatic system principles, and components and the installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of pump and piping systems.  * Prerequisite:  Industrial Mechanics.

JOURNALISM - YEARBOOK

Journalism 1A - Yearbook and Journalism 1B Yearbook
This course provide two courses must be taken together.  Journalism 1A - Yearbook is the Fall Semester course and Journalism 1B is the Spring Semester course.  These courses explore journalistic writing through analysis of newspapers, yearbooks, literary magazines, and broadcast journalism publications.  They concentrate on purpose, influence, structure, and language use through reading, writing, and critical thinking. They cover news gathering, ethics, copy writing, editing, and revising. They also include typesetting, circulation, and production.  *Students interested in journalism must take Journalism 1A - Yearbook first semester and Journalism 1B - Yearbook second semester.

JROTC (Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps) - ARMY

Army Leadership Education I
This course includes classroom instruction and laboratory instruction in the history, customs, traditions, and purpose of Army JROTC.  It contains the development of basic leadership skills to include leadership principles, values, and attributes.  Development of core skills students should master, an appreciation for diversity, and active leaning strategies are integrated throughout the course.  Emphasis is placed on writing skills and oral communications techniques.  Financial planning is introduced.  Physical fitness, diet, nutrition, healthy lifestyles and awareness of substance abuse and prevention, and basic first aid measures are additional content areas.  An overview of geography and the globe are incorporated.  Also included is a study of the U.S. Constitution, Bill of Rights, responsibilities of U.S. citizens, and the federal justice system.  Successful completion of at least three units of credit in the Army JROTC program will qualify the student for advanced placement in a college ROTC program or accelerated promotion in the military service.

Army Leadership Education II
This course includes classroom instruction and laboratory instruction expanding on skills taught in Army Leadership Education I.  It introduces equal opportunity and sexual harassment.  It provides instruction on leadership styles and practical time to exercise leadership theories as well as the basic principles of management.  It provides self assessments that help students determine their skill sets and opportunities to teach using accepted principles and methods of instruction.  It emphasizes community projects to assist in drug prevention efforts, includes dietary guidelines and fitness, and introduces map-reading skills.  It discusses the significant events that helped shape and develop the Constitution and government and teaches the role of political parties in the election process. * Prerequisite: Army Leadership Education I.

MUSIC THEORY

Music Theory
This course is designed to enhance music skills and basic music fundamentals.  The essential aspects of melody, harmony, rhythm, and form are studied.  Students will study basic notation, scales, key signatures, intervals, triads, cadences, non-chord tones, form, part-writing and analysis of score.  Aural dictation and ear training are also an integral part of the course. 

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Team Sports
This course focuses on a variety of sports and games and provides basic methods to attain a healthy and active lifestyle.

Weight Training and Advanced Weight Training
These courses are recommended for athletes, but available for all students. * Weight Training is the Prerequisite for Advanced Weight Training.

SOCIAL STUDIES ELECTIVE

AP Human Geography
This course covers how humans have understood, used, and changed the surface of the Earth. Students will use the tools and thinking processes of geographers to examine patterns of population, migration, and land use.

SPANISH

Spanish I
This course introduces the Spanish language; emphasizes all skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing in an integrated way.  It includes how to greet and take leave of someone, to ask and respond to basic questions, to speak and read within a range of carefully selected topics, and to develop an understanding of Spanish-speaking cultures.

Honors Spanish I
This is a more rigorous version of Spanish I.  Students must be recommended for Honors 9th Literature to take this course.

TEACHING AS A PROFESSION

Examining the Teaching Profession
Examining the Teaching Profession is the foundational course under the Teaching as a Profession pathway and prepares students for future positions in the field of education.  Teaching as a Profession students study, apply, and practice the use of current technologies, effective teaching and learning strategies, the creation of an effective learning environment, the creation of instructional opportunities for diverse learners and students with special needs, and plan instruction based on knowledge of subject matter, students, community, and curriculum performance standards.

THEATER TECHNOLOGY 

Theater Technology I
This course emphasizes theater operation, production management, scenic design, and theatrical management including lighting, sound, stage and house management, building and equipment maintenance, and working with performers and patrons of the arts.

Theater Technology II
This course emphasizes practical use of the equipment and operation of the theater including use of lighting and sound equipment, stage and house management, building and equipment maintenance and working with performers and patrons of the arts. * Prerequisite: Theater Technology I.

VISUAL ARTS

Visual Arts Comprehensive I
This course introduces art history, art criticism, aesthetic judgment and studio production.  It emphasizes the ability to understand and use elements and principle of design through a variety of media, processes, and visual resources.  It also explores master art works for historical and cultural significance.

WELDING

The Welding Pathway provides students with the basic knowledge and safe operating skills needed to demonstrate proper use of equipment in oxyfuel, shielded metal arc welding (SMAW), and gas metal arc welding (GMAW). * Students who select Welding as a Pathway must wait until their 10th. Grade year to begin taking courses in the Welding Pathway.