ArchwayOnline Course Catalog: High School

Students may choose from the following classes. It is recommended to build an Education Plan with an AO Academic Advisor.

Note: While some courses are available for full credit, most are taken in two separate A & B (half-credit) sections.

English Language Arts

English Language Arts 9 (1 cr)

 

English 9 is a project-based course in four units focusing on key reading and writing skills that will form the foundation for the rest of high school English language arts study. Students will explore the “big questions” literature encourages us to ask, like “What makes us human?” “What kind of future do we want,” “Where are we from?” and “Who is our neighbor?” while learning to become more attentive and insightful readers of a text. Through three main projects and three “mini-projects,” students will create, revise, and present examples of persuasive, narrative, and informative writing to build confidence in a variety of foundational skills.

 

English Language Arts 10 (1 cr)

 

10th Grade English Language Arts is a standards-based course designed to strengthen students’ abilities in reading, writing, speaking, listening, and language through the study of literary and informational texts. Aligned to the Tennessee Academic Standards for English Language Arts, this course emphasizes critical thinking, textual analysis, and effective communication.

 

Students will analyze short stories, poetry, novels, essays, speeches, and argumentative texts, focusing on how authors develop theme, character, structure, and purpose. Through close reading and discussion, students will learn to support interpretations with strong textual evidence. Writing instruction includes literary analysis, poetry analysis, argumentative essays, and research-based writing, with an emphasis on clear organization, academic tone, and revision.

 

The course also develops speaking and listening skills through collaborative discussions, presentations, and peer feedback. Grammar, usage, and vocabulary are taught in context to support effective communication across all assignments. A midterm exam assesses reading and writing skills at the halfway point of the semester.

 

By the end of the course, students will be prepared to read complex texts independently, write effectively for a variety of purposes, and communicate ideas clearly—skills essential for success in upper-level coursework, college, and career readiness.

 

English Language Arts 11A (.5 cr)

 

In this course, you will explore the theme of becoming a global citizen in literature and conduct research in order to write and record yourself giving a speech. In addition, you will apply literacy skills and strategies, complete application and writing assignments, and practice grammar and usage skills.

 

English Language Arts 11B (.5 cr)

 

In English 11, Part 2, you will explore the course theme of Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness: The American Experience. Since resilience is the attribute for this course, students will discover unsung heroes in history and in their personal lives who demonstrate this characteristic. Students will also develop their own SMART resilience goals.

 

English Language Arts 12A (.5 cr)

 

In 12th Grade English, Part 1, you will explore the course theme of Comedy in Culture. The first unit, What is a Comedy? focuses on the science of humor, humor through the ages, analyzing humor in texts, and the role of irony in humor. The second unit, Satire, explores satirical literary terminology, understanding an author’s purpose, analyzing a variety of texts looking for satire, and writing a media literacy and satire comedy review. Unit Three, Comedy and Satire in Shakespeare, focuses on how to read a comedic play (A Midsummer Night’s Dream), examining characterization, theme, conflict, language, and plot, ending with a writing project on humor.

 

English Language Arts 12B (.5 cr)

 

In this course, you will explore the theme of imagining the future in poetry, and then study Mary Shelley’s novel Frankenstein. You will also write and record yourself delivering a graduation speech. In addition, you will apply literacy skills and strategies, complete application and writing assignments, and practice grammar and usage skills.

Mathematics

Pre-Algebra (1 cr)

 

This course is designed to prepare students for success in Algebra I by strengthening the most important math skills from 7th and 8th grade. This course focuses on working with numbers, writing and simplifying expressions, solving equations, and understanding proportional and linear relationships.

 

During the first half of the course, students will build a strong foundation with numbers, expressions, and equations. In the second half, students will apply those skills to proportional relationships, graphs, linear functions, and systems of equations. Throughout the course, students will use real-world situations and problem-solving activities to develop confidence and fluency in algebraic thinking.

 

By the end of this course, students will be prepared to enter Algebra I with the skills and understanding needed to be successful.

 

Algebra I (1 cr)

 

Algebra is the use of numbers, symbols, and variables used to help express a difficult problem in a clear, organized, and solvable manner. Algebra gives us methods and approaches for solving problems we may encounter in our daily lives. In this course, you will reason with equations and inequalities, perform operations with polynomials, exponents, and quadratics, interpret functions, and analyze data.

 

Geometry (1 cr)

 

Geometry is the study of the properties, measurement, and relationships of points, lines, angles, surfaces, and solids. Geometry gives us methods and approaches for solving problems we may encounter in our daily lives.

 

In this course, students will learn about congruence principles, prove theorems, and apply geometric measurement and dimension concepts. They will also study similarity, right triangles, trigonometry, and apply rules of probability.

 

Algebra II (1 cr)

 

Algebra 2 builds on the foundation students developed in Algebra 1 and Geometry courses. In this course, students will study solving systems of equations, transforming linear and quadratic functions, solving quadratic equations, sequences and series, probability, data analysis, and statistics. Students will also explore several important families of functions, including polynomial, rational, radical, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions.

 

Algebra 2 gives students regular opportunities to think critically, recognize patterns, solve multi-step problems, communicate their reasoning, and make connections between different mathematical ideas. Students will also build confidence as they learn to approach challenging problems with patience and logical strategy.

 

Precalculus A (.5 cr)

 

This course is designed to introduce students to the foundational principals necessary for success in calculus courses, as well as foster math inquiry and problem solving skills. The course has been divided into four units: Introduction to Functions, Polynomials and Rational Functions, Exponential and Logarithmic Functions, and Introduction to Trigonometry. In addition, the course will also have you develop 21st Century Skills in Critical Thinking as well as the attribute of Gratitude.

 

Precalculus B (.5 cr)

 

This course uses mathematical functions to solve real-world problems. The course discusses trigonometric identities and the law of sines and cosines. Other primary topics include vectors, polar functions, parametric equations, conic sections, matrices and solving systems of linear equations, and combinatorics and probability.

 

Trigonometry (.5 cr)

 

This course focuses on trigonometric principles as an extension of algebraic and geometrical concepts. Students will study angles, arcs, the unit circle, right triangle trigonometry, the six trig functions, inverse functions, fundamental trig identities, verifying trig identities, solving trig equations, the law of sines, the law of cosines, vectors, complex numbers, and polar coordinates.

 

Integrated Math 1A (.5 cr)

 

This course is a study of the properties of sets of real numbers, linear equations and graphs, linear functions, systems of equations and inequalities, segments and angles, mathematical reasoning, parallel lines, and sequences and series.

 

Integrated Math 1B (.5 cr)

 

This integrated math course is a study of the properties of linear relations and functions, systems of equations and inequalities, triangles, similarities, coordinate geometry, exponents and powers, and quadratic functions.

 

Integrated Math 2A (.5 cr)

 

This integrated math course is a study of the properties of linear relations and functions, exponents and powers, triangles, polygons, quadrilaterals, similarity, radical expressions, quadratic functions and equations, and perimeter and area.

 

Integrated Math 2B (.5 cr)

 

This integrated math course is a study of the properties of quadratic equations, polynomial functions, right triangle trigonometry, circles, conics, probability and statistics, and geometric solids.

 

Integrated Math 3A (.5 cr)

 

This integrated math course is a study of the properties of inequalities, problems solved using algebraic and geometric concepts, radical expressions and simple radical equations, equations and inequalities, linear relations and functions, polynomial functions, rational functions, systems of equations and inequalities, and matrices.

 

Integrated Math 3B (.5 cr)

 

This integrated math course is a study of coordinate geometry, geometric solids, conics, polynomial functions, rational polynomial expressions, quadratic equations, exponential and logarithmic functions, sequences and series, probability and statistics, and trigonometric functions.

Social Studies

US History (1 cr)

 

This course is a comprehensive survey of United States history from 1492 to the present. Students will examine the development of American society from early contact and colonization through revolution, nation-building, civil war, industrialization, global conflict, and the challenges of modern America. The course emphasizes how political decisions, economic systems, social movements, and constitutional principles have shaped the nation over time.

 

Through the use of primary sources, guided readings, and historical analysis, students will explore key moments such as the founding of the United States, westward expansion, Reconstruction, the rise of industrial America, world wars, the Cold War, the Civil Rights Movement, and contemporary political and cultural change. Particular attention is given to the Constitution as a living framework, examining how its principles have been interpreted, applied, and contested across different historical eras.

 

By the end of the course, students will have developed a stronger understanding of American history as a continuous and evolving story and will be better equipped to think critically about the historical forces that continue to influence the United States today.

 

World History A (.5 cr)

 

This course will help students seeking a wide knowledge of and experience with history from all over the world. Students will learn to relate moral and ethical principles in ancient Greek and Roman philosophy and major world religions to the development of Western political ideals. They will also analyze significant revolutions, the causes of major wars, colonialism, nation-building, the world economy and its development, and technical and communication innovations.

 

World History B (.5 cr)

 

This course focuses on the origins, battles, and results of World War I and World War II. Students will study the rise of totalitarian states and the political environment in which they emerged. In addition, this course includes an in-depth study of the modern global situation, and the independence many former colonies now enjoy. Finally, students will examine the economical state of countries throughout the world and discuss why some have thrived and others have suffered.

 

Economics (.5 cr)

 

This course introduces students to the foundational principles of economics, including scarcity, markets, government policy, financial systems, and international trade, while emphasizing real-world decision making and economic reasoning. Students will explore how individuals, businesses, and governments respond to incentives, allocate resources, and navigate the challenges of a complex economy.

 

US Government and Citizenship (.5 cr)

 

In this course, students will explore the foundations, structures, and functions of government, with a particular focus on the American political system. Through readings, videos, quizzes, and projects, students will examine why governments exist, how power is organized, how citizens participate in democratic life, and how governments operate at the federal, state, local, and global levels. Throughout the course, students will apply what they learn to a cumulative assignment that challenges them to design a functioning government for a fictional nation.

 

By the end of the course, students will have a clearer understanding of civic responsibility, political institutions, and the role government plays in maintaining order, liberty, and justice.

Science

Physical Science (1 cr)

 

Physical Science is an introduction to the principles that govern the non-living world. In this course, you will study matter, atoms, chemical reactions, motion, forces, energy, waves, electricity, and magnetism. You will learn to interpret scientific data, apply mathematical reasoning, and explain real-world physical phenomena using evidence-based thinking. This course will build a strong foundation for future study in chemistry, physics, and other science disciplines.

 

Biology (1 cr)

 

This course is an introduction to the study of life and the principles that govern all living things. In this course, you will study the chemistry of life, cells, energy, genetics and heredity, adaptation, classification, and ecology. You will learn to interpret scientific data, recognize patterns, and explain real-world biological phenomena using evidence-based thinking. This course will build a strong foundation for future study in the life sciences and a deeper understanding of the living world around you. This class includes evolution, Big Bang and similar theories, encouraging family discussions on personal beliefs.

 

Earth Science A (.5 cr)

 

This course deals with Earth and its neighbors in space, beginning with a study of the formation of the universe, the elements of our solar system, and the origins of Earth. Students also learn about the eras of Earth, continental drift, geology, biogeology, seismology, and patterns in Earth’s history and processes. This is the first half of a two-part Earth Science series. This course also encompasses Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). This class includes evolution, Big Bang and similar theories, encouraging family discussions on personal beliefs.

 

Earth Science B (.5 cr)

 

This course takes a look at the resources that populate the spheres (biosphere, atmosphere, geosphere, hydrosphere, and cryosphere) and how we use, renew, deplete, and waste them. Students will learn about experimental design, properties of water, weathering and erosion, oceans, the atmosphere, Earth’s climate, feedback loops, natural resources, pollution, and sustainability. This is the second half of a two-part Earth Science series. This course also encompasses Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). This class includes evolution, Big Bang and similar theories, encouraging family discussions on personal beliefs.

 

Physics A (.5 cr)

 

This is an engaging and highly interactive course in which students consistently perform experiments, gather and analyze data, and draw conclusions. This course covers the scientific method, waves, motion, and forces. This is the first course in a two-part Physics series.

 

Physics B (.5 cr)

 

This physics course is a mathematical treatment of change of state, thermodynamics, wave and sound, light and color, lenses, electric charges and fields, current and circuits, satellites, magnetism, nuclear reaction, and so forth. It includes instructions for lab activities that can be completed with commonly available equipment. This is the second course in a two-part Physics series (PHSCS 041 and PHSCS 043).

 

Chemistry A (.5 cr)

 

This introductory chemistry course includes topics such as matter and energy, the atomic theory, electron clouds and probability, the periodic table, chemical bonding, chemical formulas, and balancing equations. This course has few mathematical computations and includes several virtual lab demonstrations. This is the first half of a two-part General Chemistry series. This course also encompasses Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS).

 

Chemistry B (.5 cr)

 

This course is a continuation of introductory chemistry and includes topics such as moles, states of matter, behaviors of gasses, solutions, reaction rates, chemical equilibriums, solubility, acids and bases, oxidation-reduction reactions, electrochemistry, and nuclear chemistry. This course has few mathematical computations and includes several virtual lab demonstrations. This is the second half in a two-part General Chemistry series. This course also encompasses Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS).

 

Environmental Science (.5 cr)

 

Students in Environmental Science will learn about the fundamentals of ecology: rocks, minerals, and soil; biomes; surface water and oceans; and earth and energy resources and human impact on these resources.

 

Human Anatomy (.5 cr)

 

The question “How does the human body do what it does?” is answered in this course through an in-depth study of systems in the human body, including the digestive, respiratory, immune, circulatory, and reproductive systems.

World Language

Spanish 1A (.5 cr)

 

This introductory Spanish course focuses on Hispanic and Latin culture and is structured to help you begin conversing almost immediately in Spanish. You will practice speaking, reading, writing, pronunciation, and grammar within the context of familiar topics.

 

Spanish 1B (.5 cr)

 

This is Part Two of an introductory Spanish course which focuses on Hispanic and Latin culture and is structured to help you converse in Spanish. You will practice speaking, reading, writing, pronunciation, and grammar within the context of familiar topics.

 

Spanish 2A (.5 cr)

 

Building on the skills that you developed during your first year of Spanish, you will focus on speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills, with appropriate grammatical principles as well as additional insights into culture (focusing on Colombia, Nicaragua, El Salvador, and Honduras). This Spanish course includes many interactive activities.

 

Spanish 2B (.5 cr)

 

In this course, you will focus on developing speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills, with appropriate grammatical principles as well as additional insights into culture (focusing on Venezuela, Argentina, Uruguay, and Chile). This course includes many interactive activities.

 

General Electives

Health Education (.5 cr)

 

Welcome to Wellness Foundations & Health Literacy, a dynamic, fully online course engineered to shift you from a passive student to an empowered, independent manager of your own biological and financial well-being. Rather than focusing on rote memorization, this course treats health as a highly practical, interactive toolkit required to navigate the modern world.

 

Over an intensive eight-week track, students will analyze the profound biological and psychological interrelationships of the Health Triangle—balancing physical functionality, mental/emotional resilience, and social relational infrastructure. Moving beyond basic health facts, this curriculum dives deep into the legal and financial literacy required of modern health consumers. Students will master human growth and development through an emphasis on primary risk avoidance, build media literacy frameworks to dismantle viral internet medical scams, learn to calculate real-world health insurance costs, and build the confidence needed to safely navigate community healthcare networks.

 

Online Prep: Tools for Success (.5 cr)

 

This course is designed to help you succeed as an online learner enrolled in ArchwayOnline and prepare for life after high school. You will learn how to navigate your virtual classroom, manage your time, communicate effectively, set academic and career goals, and make informed decisions about college, trade school, the military, or entering the workforce.

 

Personal Finance (.5 cr)

 

Personal Finance is a practical, real-world course designed to prepare students for financial independence and responsible decision-making. In this course, students will learn how money works in everyday life and how to manage it wisely as they move toward adulthood.

 

Students will explore where income comes from, how to budget and manage money, and how to set financial goals that align with their values and future plans. The course will also cover essential topics such as paying taxes, using credit responsibly, and understanding investments. Through hands-on activities, real-life scenarios, and personal reflection, students will gain the skills needed to make informed financial choices.

 

In addition, students will examine career and job options, learn how education and skills impact earning potential, and develop plans for future employment. The course also emphasizes the importance of generosity and responsible giving as part of a healthy financial life.

 

By the end of the course, students will be equipped with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to manage their money responsibly, plan for the future, and make financial decisions that support both personal success and positive contributions to their communities.

 

Psychology (.5 cr)

 

This course explores the basic theories and principles of psychology, guiding you to a better understanding of the self. You will also study consciousness and adolescent development, as well as traditional topics such as behaviorism, personality, learning, and social psychology.

 

Public Speaking (.5 cr)

 

Welcome to Public Speaking! In this class, you will discover the principles of public speaking and how to effectively write and present your very own speeches. Throughout the course, you’ll also be able to critique your own and others’ speeches through fun and interactive practice.

 

Sociology (.5 cr)

 

This course is a study of the way groups act and think as a result of socialization. It also focuses on students’ roles in society and how they can personally make a difference.

 

Business Communications (.5 cr)

 

This business communications course explores strategies and skills needed to become an effective written and verbal communicator. Skills taught in this course are especially helpful in workplace communication but are also applicable to communication outside of work.

 

Exploring Computer Science (.5 cr)

 

In this course you will get a sense of what is involved in the computer science area. You will learn about computer hardware and software. Using the internet and web will be discussed. A problem-solving approach will be taught, and communication, online safety, and ethics will be discussed. Simple programming using the Scratch software program will be taught throughout the course as well.

 

Computer Science A (.5 cr)

 

This is an introductory semester course in computer programming, software engineering, and applications. The course introduces you to the fundamentals of computer programming. You will learn to design, code, and test your own programs. The course will introduce basic programming concepts to beginning students through the Python programming language, preparing them for the second semester, when they will learn object-oriented programming skills in an internet environment.

 

Computer Science B (.5 cr)

 

This course focuses on programming for the internet using the Python programming language. Students will learn how to write client and server code and become familiar with database usage to build simple web applications. The goal of this course is not to teach students how to build graphically attractive web programs, but rather to teach the mechanics underpinning modern web applications.

 

 

ACT Preparation (.5 cr)

 

This ACT Prep course is jam-packed with proven test-taking strategies that will help you optimize your ACT game plan and boost your confidence. You will become familiar with current ACT test content, practice successful test-taking strategies, and demonstrate competency on assessments. This course includes ungraded self-checks, an optional instructor-graded essay, graded quizzes, and a graded final exam, but does not include ACT exam questions or registration. It teaches you how to take the ACT exam.

 

Digital Photography (.5 cr)

 

This course is an introduction to digital photography and will teach you effective camera and editing software use, artistic design, and processing. You will also learn about photography careers and a brief history of photography.

 

Child Development A (.5 cr)

 

This course delves deeply into the critical period of prenatal development, equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand and support healthy growth and development from conception to birth. Through a blend of scientific inquiry, practical application, and ethical consideration, students will explore the intricate journey of pregnancy and the profound impact of prenatal care on both maternal and fetal well-being.

 

Child Development B (.5 cr)

 

This course offers an in-depth exploration into the fascinating world of child development, focusing on the physical, cognitive, emotional, and social growth of children from infancy through adolescence. Through a combination of theory, research, and practical applications, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the factors that shape a child’s development and the significance of each stage in their journey.