Comprehensive Law Studies: Emphasis on Criminal and Sports Law

2106370  |  Grades 10 - 12

Criminal Justice Emphasis: Students learn that the American legal system is the foundation of American society. In order to function effectively, students examine those laws that have an impact on citizens’ lives with an introduction to the fundamentals of criminal justice procedures. The content will include, but not be limited to the following: need for law, basis for our legal system, criminal law, adult and juvenile courts, causes and consequences of crime, individual rights and responsibilities. Students examine the components and processes associated with the American legal system and are provided with a comprehensive examination of the criminal justice system. Study will also focus on historical antecedents for law, the reason for laws, and criminal law, social values and their impact on the establishment and interpretation of laws, comparison of adult and juvenile justice systems, the significance of the Bill of Rights to the American legal system, and the importance of the adversarial relationship in American jurisprudence. Students learn how sports have impacted our American legal system and the foundation of American society. Sports law encompasses a wide range of legal topics, including antitrust, civil rights, gender equity, labor, intellectual property/licensing, contracts, commercial law, business law, immigration law, property, torts, and criminal law. Students will learn of the United States Supreme Court decisions that have stitched both amateur and professional sports into the fabric of American society. The American fascination with sports makes sports law an excellent device for studying law. The study of law is a very valuable learning tool because it presents complex legal issues in fact-patterns that students generally find approachable and understandable.

Court Procedures / Political Science 

2106390 / 2106340  |  Grades 11-12

Court Procedures (semester 1) studies the structure, processes and procedures of the judicial systems of the United States and Florida. Areas of study will include, but not be limited to, the structure, processes and procedures of county, circuit and federal courts, civil and criminal procedures, juvenile law, the rights of the accused, evolution of court procedures, comparative legal systems, and career choices in the judicial system.

Political Science (semester 2) studies government institutions and political processes and their influence on American society. Content will include, but is not limited to, the types of government, the functions and purpose of government, the function of the state, exercise of power, policymaking and public opinion, political control and the economy, political ideologies, civil liberties, international relations, and the evolution of political change. 

Psychology 1 / Psychology 2

2107300/10  |  Grade 10 - 12

This comprehensive introductory psychology course offers students an understanding of human behavior. Spanning two levels, Psychology I covers foundational theories, psychobiology, and cognition. Students will begin to explore abnormal behaviors and work with our forensics science classes on collaborative investigative opportunities.  Psychology II builds on this knowledge by examining emotion, human growth and development, and consciousness. The course further explores creativity, social psychology, sociocultural influences, and positive psychology, providing insights into stress management, coping strategies, and mental health.  

AP Human Geography ¹

2103400  |  Grade 09 - 12

The purpose of the AP Human Geography course is to develop an understanding of patterns and processes that have shaped human understanding, use, and alterations of our Earth. The course is to be focused on various units of study; i.e. culture, language, religion, politics, agriculture, etc. The goals of the course are to develop the understanding of factual knowledge and the analytical skills necessary to express that understanding through writing.

Prerequisite: See Honors/AP eligibility requirements chart.

AP Psychology ¹

2107350  |  Grades 10 - 12

This course is designed to be an in-depth exploration into the systematic and scientific study of behavior and mental processes. This course covers a wide range of topics including research methods, biological bases of behavior, sensation and perception, learning and cognition, motivation and emotion, developmental psychology, learning theories, social psychology, personality, abnormal psychology, and physical and mental health. Students will explore these areas through the integration of theoretical perspectives and empirical findings, engaging in critical thinking and analytical skills to understand complex psychological concepts. This course prepares students for the AP Psychology exam from College Board, offering them the opportunity to earn college credits.

Prerequisite: See Honors/AP eligibility requirements chart.

Speech 1 ²

1007300  |  Grades 09 - 12

This course is designed to build student facility in understanding the components of speech and debate. For speeches, students will build an understanding in structuring various types of speeches, researching information, audience analysis, presentation of speeches and building self-confidence in public speaking situations. For debates, students will learn use of correct and effective language and organizational skills in preparing, delivering, and evaluating argument and debate.  Students will critique both speeches and debates, paying attention to content, organization, and language.

Prerequisite: C or higher in a previous English course.

¹ Indicates a weighted course.
² This course meets the fine / performing arts, speech & debate, Career Technical Education (CTE), and practical arts graduation requirement.