Ballard High School

Ballard
High School
Academics

Course Catalog

Ballard High School Course Catalog Overview

Ballard HS Course Catalog 23-24

This year our BHS Course Catalog has been simplified to list courses and descriptions arranged by department. View introductory or more information on the District Course Registration Guide for the 23-24 school year.  

District Course Registration Guide

View the district Intro to HS Course Registration (available in multiple languages) to help assist students and families in making informed, educational decisions in preparation for the future.

The District Course Registration Guide provides:

  • Graduation Requirements
  • Recommended course sequences by content area ie: math, science, etc. 
  • Graduation Pathways; 24 credit course requirements by graduation year; High School & Beyond Planning; Dual Credit opportunities; Career Connected Learning; and Virtual Learning Options 
  • Running Start, CTE, Advanced Placement, College in the HS; Planning worksheets and much more! 

BHS Course Descriptions By Department

Note: Section Layout Currently Under Construction

The information posted on this page can viewed or printed using the BHS Course Catalog in its entirety.

Business Education Courses

HCT4002 COMPUTER APPLICATIONS 1
Length/Credit: 1 semester/ 0.5 credit
Credit type: CTE
Students will gain an overall picture of the capabilities and impact of computer technology by learning how to use Microsoft Office Word, Excel, Access, Publisher, and PowerPoint. Students also learn how to create basic web pages in HTML and basic movies using Windows Movie Maker. While working with these programs, students will continuously work on increasing their typing speed and accuracy by using proper techniques.


HCT7131 ACCOUNTING 1
Length/Credit: 1 semester/ 0.5 credit – One of the prerequisites for Academy of Finance
Credit type: CTE
A career and technical education course designed to develop knowledge of the basic principles, concepts, procedures, and vocabulary of accounting. Students work through the accounting cycle, first in a service business for a proprietorship and then in a merchandising business for a partnership.


HCT7132 ACCOUNTING 2
Length/Credit: 1 semester/ 0.5 credit
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Accounting 1
Credit type: CTE
Dual Credit: Seattle College Credit Available-must complete Accounting 1 & 2 with B average.
When followed by Accounting 1 this SERs articulated and CTE education course is designed to further the knowledge base acquired in Accounting 1. Students work through the accounting cycle for a merchandising business organized as a partnership and as a corporation.


HCT7133 ACCOUNTING 3
Length/Credit: 1 semester/ 0.5 credit
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Accounting 2
Credit type: CTE
Other: This course is offered as an independent study course housed in the regular Accounting 1 & 2 classroom.
In this course, students continue toward vocational competency in accounting procedures. They learn departmental and partnership accounting and do advanced work in inventory, accounts receivable, accounts payable and payroll. Business simulation sets provide realistic, practical application of advanced accounting procedures.


CMA6887/6888 BUS 130 BUSINESS MATH A/B
Length/Credit: Yearlong / 0.5 credit per semester
Prerequisites: Algebra 1 & Geometry
Dual Credit: CIHS via Edmonds College
Cross credit: Math/CTE HCT6887/6888
Open to 10th – 12th grade
This course is a two-semester course equivalent to a one-quarter Business Mathematics college course. Students are eligible to earn 5.0 college credits after completing both semesters of this course (tuition fees apply). The course includes instruction and review of basic math functions to prepare students for business classes. Topics may include using ratio-proportion, percents, estimating, basic algebra, trade/cash discounts, promissory notes, credit terms, and other consumer related activities. Although this course does not fulfill the math requirement for four-year degrees, it does fulfill the math requirement for many two-year Associate in Technical Arts (ATA) degrees. Including Accounting, Business Information Technology, Business Management, Construction Management, Culinary Arts, Horticulture, Hospitality and Tourism, Medical Information Technology, and others.


HCT1253 PRINCIPLES OF FINANCE (NON-AOF STUDENTS)
Length/Credit: 1 semester/ 0.5 credit – 1st semester/11th or 12th Grade
Credit type: CTE
This is the same course students taken in the Academy of Finance. It introduces students to the financial world & how it impacts them. Students develop financial literacy as they learn about the function of finance in society. They study income and wealth; examine financial institutions; learn how businesses raise capital; and study key investment-related terms and concept and relate them to their own unique situations. They also research how innovations have changed the financial services field. Finally, students explore careers that exist in finance today.


HCT2528/2529 AP MACROECONOMICS 1 & 2
Length/Credit: Yearlong / 0.5 credit per semester
Prerequisite: Algebra 1 & Geometry
Credit type: CTE, SS CSS2528/2529
Other: Open to Grades 11th or 12th
AP Macroeconomics 1A is a college level course designed to provide students with a development understanding of the principles of economics and how those principles operate within the economic system as a whole. Emphasizing the study of the following topics: Basic Economic Concepts; Measurement of Economic Performance; National Income and Price Determination; Financial Sector; Stabilization Policies; Economic Growth; and Open Economy: International Trade and Finance. Students will be expected to take the AP-Macro Economics exam in the spring. 


Academy of Finance Courses

HCT1253 PRINCIPLES OF FINANCE
Length/Credit: 1 semester/ 0.5 credit – 1st semester/11th Grade
Credit type: CTE
This is the first course students take in the Academy of Finance and introduces students to the financial world & how it impacts them. Students develop financial literacy as they learn about the function of finance in society. Students learn the basics of finances and study in depth the benefits & risks of income, investments, credit, insurance, and financial planning. Students take what they learn complete the “Life at 25 Project” Where they have a 30-point financial plan based on their vision of themselves at age 25. It is based on their actual financial situation, college preferences, and ambitions.


HCT1254 BUSINESS ECONOMICS
Length/Credit: 1 semester/ 0.5 credit – 2nd semester/ 11th Grade
Credit type: CTE
Business Economics introduces students to the key concepts of economics as they pertain to business. This course discusses the American economy and the factors that influence the success of businesses and products. It describes forms of business ownership, discusses the relationship of labor and business, and provides a broad overview of the global economy. Students also examine careers in business, both as employees and as business owners.


HCT1255 BUSINESS IN A GLOBAL ECONOMY
Length/Credit: 1 semester/ 0.5 credit – 1st semester/12th Grade
Credit type: CTE
Business in a Global Economy provides students with an understanding of how and why businesses choose to expand their operations into other countries. This course exposes students to the unique challenges facing firms doing business internationally, and to the potential opportunities available to those businesses. Building on concepts introduced in Principles of Finance, Business in a Global Economy broadens students’ understanding of
how businesses operate, grow, and thrive in our ever-changing world.


HCT4295/4296 BUSINESS MANAGEMENT A/B
Length/Credit: Semester / 0.5 credit
Credit Type: CTE
Other: Open to 11th or 12th
The course provides core content applicable to all aspects of business and encompasses the practical applications of management theory. Students will be introduced to the fundamental management functions including planning, organizing, leading, and controlling from multiple perspectives. Including the use of technology and communication as tools of business. The course is designed with a skills-based approach and focuses on six major units: 1. Managing and management responsibilities, 2. The environment of business, management, 3. Business organization and management, 4. Financial management, 5. Production and marketing management, 5. Human resources management.


Marketing Education Courses

HCT5077 MARKETING I
Length/Credit 1 semester/ .5 credit
Credit type: CTE
Other: Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
Marketing 1 is an introductory course which will expose students to the fundamental concepts of marketing.
Students will evaluate interpersonal communication concepts and skills. This course will clearly define the
marketing concept and lead students into a marketing education career pathway. Students may have the
opportunity to participate and compete in DECA competitions and activities. Topics covered in Marketing 1 may
include: what is marketing, introduction to business, marketing and economic concepts, human relations, how
to get and keep a job, career development, selling and promotion.
HCT5078 MARKETING II
Free Community College Credit Available Through Tech Prep
Length/Credit: 1 semester/ .5 credit – available either semester
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Marketing 1
Credit type: CTE
Marketing 2 is the second of four courses that introduce students to the world of marketing including business
and marketing functions, risk management, finance, marketing operations and specialized career development –
in the area of the student’s interest. A central focus throughout the course will be the development of soft skills
including teamwork, oral communication, written communication, and decision-making. Students have the
opportunity to participate in DECA. Prerequisite: Marketing 1 or concurrent enrollment in Marketing 1.
HCT2291 ENTREPRENEURSHIP
Length/Credit: 1 semester/ .5 credit
Prerequisite: Marketing 1
Other: Open to Grades 9-12
Credit type: CTE
Entrepreneurship is a specialized business course designed to provide students the skills needed to effectively
organize, develop, create, finance, and manage their own business. Additional topics to be addressed are
assessment of personal skills, leadership, human relations and interpersonal skills, and the importance of
business ethics. Students will write a business prospectus (plan) for a start-up business of their choice will
participate in a virtual business competition, and a real-life Shark Tank style completion. Enrollment in
Entrepreneurship allows students to participate in DECA, an association of Marketing Students.
HCT2524 SOC MEDIA MARKTING AND ADV
Length/Credit: .5/Semester CTE
Social Media Marketing and Advertising will immerse students in experiential learning focused on the use of
social media marketing platforms, metrics, and methods. They will learn how to segment the online marketplace
to target desired consumers and meet measurable goals. Students will work creatively and collaboratively on
marketing campaigns, ads, and videos using the Adobe Creative Cloud. They will learn how to use the metrics of
each social media platform to measure and improve their marketing skills and outcomes. Prerequisites or co-
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requisites: It is recommended but not required that students take Marketing before this course; and Graphic
Arts either before or at the same time.
Computer Science Courses
HCT2547/2548 CS1: IMMERSIVE MEDIA A/B
Length/Credit: Yearlong/0.5 credit per semester
Prerequisite: None
Credit type: CTE
Other: Open to grades 9-12; Emphasis on independent study
This course introduces students to high level computer science concepts and creative design approaches while
they learn how to use immersive technologies. Students will learn product design theory, programming concepts
and product management skills while using industry specific software to create small projects. The class
culminates with a collaborative team project of the students’ own design using immersive technology such as
virtual or augmented reality.
HCT1296/1297 CS2: AP COMPUTER SCIENCE A1/A2
Length/Credit: Yearlong / 0.5 credit per semester
Prerequisite: CS1 Immersive Media A/B (unless pre-approved by instructor)
Credit type: CTE
Other: Open to grades 10 – 12; Algebra is helpful
The AP Computer Science A1/A2 course is intended to service students that are planning to major in computer
science or other disciplines that require significant involvement with technology. Students will be able to
demonstrate their ability to design, write, analyze, debug and document programs and subprograms using JAVA.
This course is designed to prepare students for the AP Computer Science A exam and can be used as a 4th year
Science or Math Credit.
HCT5907/5908 CS3: COMPUTER SCIENCE PROJECTS 1 & 2
Length/Credit: Yearlong / 0.5 credit per semester
Prerequisite: a CTE course emphasizing an aspect of product creation i.e.: AP Computer Science, Graphic Design,
Entrepreneurship, etc.
Credit type: CTE
Other: Open to grades 11 – 12; Heavy emphasis on independent study
This course is culminating CS course and will allow students to hone their product development skills. Students
taking this course will experience the satisfaction of creating a final project of their own design that demonstrate
the value and power of computer science. Lessons on software development processes, project design and
management, among other topics will assist in completing the projects. Students taking this course will be
expected to be self-directed and motivated. The class will use the agile system for project development,
teaching students a very useful and relevant project management system.
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Career Connected Learning (CCL)
Career Connected Learning is a career awareness program for rising Seattle students to explore careers, meet a
variety of industry professionals, and build an initial career and education plan. Students can become involved
through service-learning projects, work experience, and internships.
Career connected learning can be as simple as a businessperson visiting a classroom, talking about what they do.
Or a job shadow where a young person learns more about an occupation or business. Or in some cases it can be
an internship, or a registered apprenticeship, where youth are paid while they learn hands-on skills.
Worksite (WSL) opportunities are available in some cases subject to school/state requirements. (See CCLC-
Career Connected Learning Coordinator at school) for more information.
CCL Courses
HCT1298 CAREER CONNECT 1
Length/Credit: Semester / 0.5 credit per semester
Prerequisites: None
Credit type: CTE
The course is designed to help students explore a variety of exciting careers to consider. The purpose of this
course is to provide students with instruction in the career planning process directly related to local industry
data, career interest, and skill attainment. Through the course, students will be developing a professional career
portfolio, which includes career assessments, resumes, cover letters, and artifacts of student’s work that
demonstrate their 21st century skills. Students will evaluate their employability skills, identify their personal
values, learning styles, personality types, and career interests as they start to plan for their future through
authentic classroom projects, career panels, field trips, internships, and job interviews. Students can explore
future careers, set goals, and create a professional portfolio in order to be successful in their transition to life
after high school.
HCT1299 CAREER CONNECT 2
Length/Credit: Semester / 0.5 credit per semester
Prerequisites: Career Connect 1
Credit type: CTE
This course is the second course in the career connection pathway. Prerequisite-Career Connections 1. What
makes this course unique is the 65-hour embedded career internship, like a clinical practicum. CC2 (Career
Connect 2) students focus on building hands-on technical skills and have opportunities to unpack their learning
during classroom discussions and assignments. Students will build out their professional portfolios through
obtaining a local internship. The embedded internship provides opportunities for students to practice and attain
employability skills desired by local business professionals in a meaningful and authentic setting. Students will
transition from the classroom to the internship site (upon approval by the school) Monday through Friday. This
course will benefit students who are currently working, seeking work, looking to add work experience to their resume or those about to enter the professional setting.

Worksite Learning Courses

Students can participate in credit bearing CTE Internships. Some Paid (WSL) Worksite Learning-credit-bearing

opportunities are available upon school/state approval. See our (CCLC) Career Connected Learning Coordinator

for information, eligibility requirements, and registration process. The table below is a sampling of courses and

does not infer availability.

HCT3819 AG WRKSITE 1 0.50

HCT3820 AG WRKSITE 2 0.50

HCT3825 BIO MED WRKSITE 1 0.50

HCT3826 BIO MED WRKSITE 2 0.50

HCT3827 BUILDING WRKSITE 1 0.50

HCT3828 BUILDING WRKSITE 2 0.50

HCT3829 BUSINESS WRKSITE 1 0.50

HCT3830 BUSINESS WRKSITE 2 0.50

HCT3831 COMM TECH WRKSITE 1 0.50

HCT3832 COMM TECH WRKSITE 2 0.50

HCT3833 COMM/JOURNALISM WRKSITE 1 0.50

HCT3834 COMM/JOURNALISM WRKSITE 2 0.50

HCT3835 COMPUTER INFO SC WRKSITE 1 0.50

HCT3836 COMPUTER INFO SC WRKSITE 2 0.50

HCT3837 CULINARY WRKSITE 1 0.50

HCT3838 CULINARY WRKSITE 2 0.50

HCT3839 EDUCATION WRKSITE 1 0.50

HCT3840 EDUCATION WRKSITE 2 0.50

HCT3807 ENGIN TECH WRKSTE 1 0.50

HCT3808 ENGIN TECH WRKSTE 2 0.50

HCT3809 ENGINEERING WRKSTE 1 0.50

HCT3810 ENGINEERING WRKSTE 2 0.50

HCT3843 FACSE WRKSITE 1 0.50

HCT3844 FACSE WRKSITE 2 0.50

HCT3863 FINE ARTS WRKSITE 1 0.50

HCT3864 FINE ARTS WRKSITE 2 0.50

HCT3811 GOV PUB ADM WRKSTE 1 0.50

HCT3812 GOV PUB ADM WRKSTE 2 0.50

HCT3847 HEALTH SCI WRKSITE 1 0.50

HCT3848 HEALTH SCI WRKSITE 2 0.50

HCT3849 HOSP WRKSITE 1 0.50

HCT3850 HOSP WRKSITE 2 0.50

HCT3851 LEGAL PROFESSIONS WRKSITE 1 0.50

HCT3852 LEGAL PROFESSIONS WRKSITE 2 0.50

HCT3853 MARKETING WRKSITE 1 0.50

HCT3854 MARKETING WRKSITE 2 0.50

HCT3855 MECHANIC WRKSITE 1 0.50

HCT3856 MECHANIC WRKSITE 2 0.50

HCT1191 MKTG ED APPLIED 3 0.50

HCT1192 MKTG ED APPLIED 4 0.50

HCT3817 NATURAL RESOURCES WRKSITE 1 0.50

HCT3818 NATURAL RESOURCES WRKSITE 2 0.50

HCT3857 PRECISION WRKSITE 1 0.50

HCT3858 PRECISION WRKSITE 2 0.50

HCT3859 SECURITY WRKSITE 1 0.50

HCT3860 SECURITY WRKSITE 2 0.50

WCT4648 SKC COMM JOURNAL WRKSTE 1 0.50

WCT4649 SKC COMM JOURNAL WRKSTE 2 0.50

WCT4652 SKC COMP IT WRKSTE EXP 1 0.50

WCT4653 SKC COMP IT WRKSTE EXP 2 0.50

WCT4664 SKC CONST WRKSTE 1 0.50

WCT4665 SKC CONST WRKSTE 2 0.50

WCT4666 SKC CULINARY WRKSTE EXP 1 0.50

WCT4667 SKC CULINARY WRKSTE EXP 2 0.50

WCT4675 SKC HLTH SCI WRKSTE 1 0.50

WCT4676 SKC HLTH SCI WRKSTE 2 0.50

HCT5806 SKC HOSPITALITY WRKSTE 1 1.00

HCT5807 SKC HOSPITALITY WRKSTE 2 0.50

WCT4683 SKC Maritime WRKSTE 1 0.50

WCT4684 SKC Maritime WRKSTE 2 0.50

WCT4685 SKC PROTECT SERV WRKSTE 1 0.50

WCT4686 SKC PROTECT SERV WRKSTE 2 0.50

HCT1759 TECHNOLOGY ED WKSITE 1 0.50

HCT1760 TECHNOLOGY ED WKSITE 2 0.50

HCT3861 TRANS MOV WRKSITE 1 0.50

HCT3862 TRANS MOV WRKSITE 2 0.50

Technical Education Courses
HCT7374 MARITIME I – SURVEY
Length/credit: 1st semester/ .5 credit
Prerequisite: None
Credit type: CTE
Other: Offered 1st semester only, Occ. Ed. Credit/10th, 11th, or 12th Grade
This course is a semester-long introduction to the various marine-related industries in Puget Sound and
elsewhere, as well as an introduction to maritime-related skills. Students also have the opportunity to use their
skills on board the steam ship Virginia V.
HCT7375 MARITIME II – SKILLS
Length/credit: 2nd semester only/0.5 Occ. Ed. Credit
Prerequisite: Maritime I – Survey
Credit type: CTE
This course is the second part of the Maritime-specific courses for Maritime Academy students. This course
centers on skills specific to the maritime trades and expands on skills learned in Maritime I. Students in this
course prepare for the Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessel (OUPV) Coast Guard license and learn about
how to start a career in the Maritime Industries. Students also have the opportunity to use their skills on board
the Schooner Zodiac.
HCT2543, CFA2543 GRAPHIC DESIGN BEGINNING
Length/Credit: Semester, 0.5
Credit type: CTE, Fine Arts
Graphic Design Beginning is an introductory course that teaches the fundamentals of creatively and effectively
communicating through digital images. Employing both traditional and digital tools, students learn graphic
design skills, software, and industry standards. This course may be cross-credited for Fine Arts.
HCT6890/6892 METAL 1/2
Length/Credit: 1 semester only – course cannot be repeated/ .5 credit
Prerequisite: Open to Grades 10 – 12
The Metalworking class is designed to give students the opportunity to study many of the tools, materials, and
processes common to working with metal and metalworking occupations. The course curriculum combines
technical instruction with hands-on shop experience. Students learn to operate tools and machines used in the
trades and industry. Safety in all shop activities is emphasized.
HCT7963 WOODS 1
Length/Credit: 1 semester/ .5 credit
This introductory class in Woodworking provides students with the opportunity to study many of the tools,
materials, and processes common to working with wood and wood construction. The course curriculum
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combines technical instruction with hands-on shop experience. Students learn to operate tools and machines
used in the trades and industry. Safety in all shop activities is emphasized.
HCT7964 WOODS 2
Length/Credit: 1 semester/ .5 credit
Credit Type: CTE, Tech Prep
The Advanced Woods course builds on skills previously learned in the introductory course. The goal is to develop
greater independence in the context of safety, design, layout, and the processes and techniques of
woodworking and woods construction. Students will be given the opportunity to learn to operate more complex
tools and machines than the basic course. Completion of Wood 1 and Woods Advanced qualifies for Tech Prep
(Community College) credit. Safety in all shop activities is emphasized.
HCT2415 ROBOTICS* 1
Length/Credit: Semester, 0.5
Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12
New course for 2023-24 Use motors, actuators, infrared vision sensors, sound sensors, and remote control to build robots. Learn about the electronics, physics and computer programming that make it possible for robots to work. Create your own purpose for a robot, then design it, build it, program it, and operate it. Learn how robots are shaping the future today. HCT2519 ROBOTICS 2
Length/Credit: Semester, 0.5
Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12
*New course for 2023-24
Students continue to learn how to use motors, actuators, infrared vision sensors, sound sensors, and remote
control to build robots. Learn about the electronics, physics and computer programming that make it possible
for robots to work. Create your own purpose for a robot, then design it, build it, program it, and operate it.
Learn how robots are shaping the future today. We’ll continue looking at how robots move, how they sense the
world around them and how they make decisions. Then we’ll put all this together and apply what we’ve learned
to build our own robot. You will design and create your own purpose for a robot, then build and operate it.
HCT1574/2313 INTRODUCTION TO ENGINEERING DESIGN 1/2
Length/Credit: Yearlong / 0.5 credit per semester
Prerequisites: Must have passed or be currently enrolled in Algebra 1 A/B
Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12
Other: Open to non-Pathway students on space available basis
INTRO ENGINEERING DESIGN The first course of the Project Lead the Way (Pre-Engineering) Program is an
introductory course, which develops student problem solving skills, with emphasis placed on the development
of three- dimensional solid models. Students will work from sketching simple geometric shapes to applying a
solid modeling computer software package. They will learn a problem-solving design process and how it is used
in industry to manufacture a product. The Computer Aided Design System (CAD) will also be used to analyze and
evaluate the product design. The techniques learned, and equipment used, are state of the art and are currently
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being used by engineers throughout the United States. This is the 1st course of the Project Lead The Way
curriculum.
HCT1576/2311 PRINCIPLES OF ENGINEERING 1/2
Length/Credit: Yearlong / 0.5 credit per semester
Prerequisite: Introduction to Engineering Design 1/2
Grades: 10, 11, 12
This is the second yearlong course in the Project Lead The Way (Pre-Engineering) Program and is a broad-based
survey course designed to help students understand the field of engineering and engineering technology and its
career possibilities. Students will develop engineering problem solving skills that are involved in post-secondary
education programs and engineering careers. They will explore various engineering systems and manufacturing
processes. They will also learn how engineers address concerns about the social and political consequences of
technological change.
HCT1577/2316 COMPUTER INTEGRATED MANUFACTURING 1
Length/Credit: Semester / 0.5 credit
Prerequisite: Introduction to Engineering Design or Woods, or Metals
Grades: 10, 11, 12
The adjunct course to Principles of Engineering of the Project Lead The Way (Pre-Engineering) Program is a
course that applies principles of rapid prototyping, robotics and automation. This course builds upon the
computer solid modeling skills developed in Introduction to Engineering Design. Students will use computer
controlled rapid prototyping and CNC equipment to solve problems by constructing actual models of their three-
dimensional designs. Students will also be introduced to the fundamentals of robotics and how this equipment is
used in an automated manufacturing environment. Students will evaluate their design solution using various
techniques of analysis and make appropriate modifications before producing their prototypes. This is an adjunct
course to Principles of Engineering of the Project Lead The Way Program
HCT1578/2314 ENGINEERING DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT
Length/Credit: Yearlong / 0.5 credit per semester
Prerequisite: A combination of two or three full years of Project Lead-the-Way courses
Grade: 12
The final course of the Project Lead the Way (Pre-Engineering) Program is a course where students will work in
teams of two to four to design and construct the solution to an engineering problem (original, taken from a
database of problems, or a national challenge), applying the principles developed in the four preceding courses.
Students will maintain a journal as part of a portfolio of their work. Each team will be responsible for delivering
progress reports and making final presentations of their project to an outside review panel. The completed
portfolio will be invaluable as students apply to college.
HCT2452/2453 VIDEO BEGINNING A & B
Length/Credit: Semester, 0.5 or Year-long, 1.0
Course Code(s): (A) HCT2452 (A) CFA2452, (B) HCT2453 (B) CFA2453
This introductory course teaches the fundamentals of creatively and effectively communicating visual stories
through the lens of a video camera, including critical media analysis. Students collaborate while learning the
video production process: pre-production (planning, developing ideas, and identifying resources), production
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(lighting, composition, and audio recording techniques), and post-production (editing with graphics, sound, and
visual effects). Types of productions may include narrative, documentary, news, informational, and
experimental. This course may be cross-credited for Fine Arts.
CFA2454/2455 VIDEO ADVANCED A & B
Length/Credit: Semester, 0.5 or Year-long, 1.0
Course Code(s): (A) HCT2454 (A) CFA2454, (B) HCT2455 (B) CFA2455
This is a hands-on, project-based course in which students work in teams to produce a variety of increasingly
complex productions. Students refine their understanding of the production process, incorporating more
advanced techniques in development, shooting, sound, lighting, editing, graphics and special effects. This course
may be cross-credited for Fine Arts. This course may be repeated for credit. 1/17/2020 5
CFA2464/2465 VIDEO SPECIAL PROJECTS
Length/Credit: Semester, 0.5 or Year-long, 1.0
Video Special Projects is a hands-on, project-based course in which students display leadership while producing
a variety of highly complex productions. Emphasis is placed on approaching mastery of techniques in
development, shooting, sound, lighting, editing, graphics and special effects. This course may be cross-credited
for Fine Arts. This course may be repeated for credit.

HCT7027/7028 FOOD SCIENCE 1 & FOOD SCIENCE 2
Length/Credit: Semester/.5 credit for each semester. Science or occupational credit, student choice.
Prerequisite: None—open to all grades
Food Science is a practical approach to science through the study of food. This is a one or two semester course
that can be taken any semester. The course includes safety and sanitation, the scientific method, food
preparation and evaluation, consumer information, and nutrition. Projects include community service and the
development of leadership skills.
HCT5484 HUMAN DEVELOPMENT
Length/Credit: 1 semester/.5 occupational credit
Prerequisite: None—open to all grades
This course explores the human life cycle, history of parenting, child development, and diseases. Class
instruction will include Child Care Basics. This is a great class for students interested in healthcare, childcare, or
psychology.
HCT2430 CHILD DEVELOPMENT/PARENTING – INTERNSHIP
Teaching assistant for special needs students
Length/Credit: 1 semester/.5 occupational credit
Prerequisite: Must be 16 years old and have passed Human Development with a “B” or better.
Students will continue studying competencies begun in the Human Development class. Course work will include
Human Development National Standards activities, assignments, and working with special education students.
HCT2429 INDEPENDENT LIVING
Length/Credit: 1 semester/.5 occupational credit
Prerequisite: None – open to all grades
This class will prepare students to take care of themselves and others. The course includes goal setting, decision
making, nutrition, meal preparation, clothing care and repair, relationships, finances, career exploration, and
leadership opportunities.
HCT3324 APPAREL & TEXTILES 1
Length/Credit: 1 semester/.5 occupational credit
Prerequisite: None – open to all grades
This class helps students become better clothing consumers as well as learning valuable sewing techniques. The
students will use sewing machines to make projects. Other activities include fashion drawing, studying fashion
designers, career exploration, fabric recycling, and wardrobe planning. Students will need to provide fabric and
other materials for most projects.
HCT3325 APPAREL & TEXTILES 2
Length/Credit: 1 semester/.5 occupational credit
Prerequisite: Successful completion of beginning course
Advanced students work on perfecting their skills and sewing techniques. Students will design and produce
garments along with other advanced projects. Internships can be set up for more experience.
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  1. English Language Arts (ELA)
    HLA3093/3095 INTRO TO LIT COMP 9A/9B
    Length/Credit: Yearlong / 0.5 LA credit per semester
    Prerequisite: Freshman standing
    Other: This course is required for 9th graders
    Introduction to Literature and Composition is a yearlong course that concentrates on guided and critical reading
    of a diverse range of texts from different genres that reflect themes of identity and self-discovery and where the
    focus of composition is developing clear and purposeful writing. Major texts may include The Odyssey, Romeo
    and Juliet, Night, A Raisin in the Sun, and American Born Chinese. The writing emphasis is on narrative and
    expository writing, with a sustained introduction to argumentative writing.
    HLA3097/3099 WRLD LIT COMP 10A/10B
    Length/Credit: Yearlong Course / 0.5 LA credit per semester
    Prerequisite: Sophomore standing
    Other: This course is required for 10th graders
    World Literature and Composition is a yearlong course where students read international texts, including four
    selections from the Seattle Public Schools 10th grade reading list and additional supplemental works including
    poetry, short stories and nonfiction. The course concentrates on critically reading how the human experience is
    expressed in literature from around the world. The course prepares students to understand fundamental
    notions of world or non-western literature reflected in a diverse range of texts and genres. Major texts may
    include Burial at Thebes (Antigone in trans.), Persepolis, Othello, and Born a Crime as well as independently
    student selected books. Writing instruction focusses to on narrative mode, with an increasing emphasis on
    argumentative writing particularly as it relates to literary analysis.
    HLA3101/3103 AMER LIT COMP 11A / 11B
    Length/Credit: Yearlong / 0.5 LA credit per semester
    Prerequisite: Junior standing
    Other: This course is required for11th graders
    American Literature and Composition is a yearlong course that concentrates on critically reading different
    interpretations of the American experience and the American dream, with an emphasis on increased
    sophistication through reading, writing, and speaking. The course prepares students to grapple with the
    fundamental notions of American identity as it is expressed in a range of texts and genres. Readings, both
    classical and contemporary, lend themselves to literary analysis, represent a variety of reading levels and
    cultures, and showcase an assortment of themes. Writing instruction focuses primarily on argumentative writing
    as it relates to literary analysis. The class promotes an understanding of works in their social and historical
    context and to expose students to a variety of literary perspectives and traditions central to American Literature.
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    *HUMANITIES BLOCK 2-COURSE INTEGRATED HONORS & CORE
    HLA2580/2581 HLA4129/4130 ETHNIC STUDIES AMER LIT COMP 11 A/B
    HSS2578/2579 HSS2584/2585 ETHNIC STUDIES US HIST 11 A/B
    Length/Credit: Yearlong / 0.5 credit per semester per period w/ Honors option
    Prerequisite: 11th grade
    *New course for 23-24
    This yearlong block course (i.e., 2 consecutive periods every day) combines 11th grade Ethnic Studies American
    Literature with 11th grade Ethnic Studies US History. It begins with pre-colonial Indigenous history and literature
    and through a present-day look at American history, literature in conversation with current events. The course
    explores multiple American novels, poems, speeches, plays, short-stories, and myths with an Ethnic Studies lens.
    The opportunity of two periods each day allows for community building and more in-depth context which offers
    a unique experience for Ballard’s 11th graders. In this Ethnic Studies course students grapple with the question
    “What does it mean to be an American and who gets to decide?” while developing an understanding of Origins
    and Indigeneity, Identity and Agency, Action and Reflection, Power and Oppression, Resistance and Liberation.
    HLA2492/2493 AP ENG LANG COMP 1/2
    Length/Credit: Yearlong / 0.5 LA credit per semester
    Dual Credit: Students who take AP exams, which are administered annually in May, can earn college credit,
    depending on their score and the college they plan to attend.
    The AP course in English Language and Composition engages students in becoming skilled readers of prose
    written in a variety of rhetorical contexts, and in becoming skilled writers who compose for a variety of
    purposes. Both their writing and their reading should make students aware of the interactions among a writer’s
    purposes, audience expectations, and subjects, as well as the way genre conventions and the resources of
    language contribute to effectiveness in writing suitable for the college bound student while satisfying the LA 11
    requirement.
    HLA3123/3124 COMPAR LIT COMP 12A / 12B
    Length/Credit: Yearlong / 0.5 LA credit per semester
    Other: Required 12th grade course, will satisfy fourth year for college entrance
    Comparative Literature and Composition is a yearlong course that synthesizes critical reading and writing skills
    from previous years, focusing on texts that cross a wide range of genres, and embody a high level of thematic
    and technical complexity. The course prepares students to grapple with the rigors of comparative analysis they
    will encounter in college, other post-secondary programs and life experiences. This class has a focus on the
    representation of self and the individual’s identity and power in society. Major texts may include Hamlet, The
    Handmaid’s Tale and The House of the Spirits.
    HLA2494/2495 AP ENG LIT COMP 1 / 2
    Length/Credit: Yearlong class/ 0.5 LA credit per semester
    Dual Credit: Students who take AP exams, which are administered annually in May, can earn college credit,
    depending on their score and the college they plan to attend.
    AP English Literature and Composition engages students in the careful reading and critical analysis of
    imaginative literature. Through the close reading of selected texts, students deepen their understanding of the
    ways writers use language to provide both meaning and pleasure for their readers. As they read, students
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    consider a work’s structure, style and themes, as well as such smaller-scale elements as the use of figurative
    language, imagery, symbolism and tone.
    HLA7687 ENGL 111 COMPOS LIT
    Length/Credit: Yearlong / 0.5 LA Credit per semester
    Dual Credit: UWSH (aka CIHS College in High School) satisfies fourth year for college entrance. University of
    Washington credits available for additional fee.
    This yearlong course is a composition class—the equivalent of an introductory writing course at most colleges
    and universities—in which students read both fiction and non-fiction texts in the form of novels, plays, poetry,
    and essays that will form the basis of the essays you write. You will also learn high-level research skills. Through
    this UW course, eligible students have the option to register to earn UW credits through the UW in the High
    School program. You can learn more about the UW College in the High School program at www.uwhs.uw.edu/.
    HLA7687/7669 ENGL 111 COMPOS LIT / C LIT 240 FILM AS LIT
    Length/Credit: Yearlong / 1.0 LA credit per semester
    Dual Credit: CIHS (College in High School) Will satisfy fourth year for college entrance. University of Washington
    credits available for additional fee.
    This yearlong course offers students an intensive writing class at the college level. Students will work closely
    with the instructor to develop a portfolio of writing that reflects an ability to write papers with complex claims
    that matter in academic contexts. The first semester will expose students to a variety of nonfiction and literary
    texts; students will develop their ability to read, analyze and synthesize complex texts and write with multiple
    types of evidence to support writing in various contexts.
    The second semester will emphasize comparative writing; texts will include film, criticism, and theory. Students
    will work closely with the instructor to develop a portfolio that reflects an ability to write essays with complex
    claims that are suitable for college-level academic contexts. A textbook as well as the viewing of feature-length,
    critically acclaimed films serve as central texts. Supplemental readings will include essays on critical theory,
    formal/technical analyses, and biographies. Students will develop their ability to read, analyze and synthesize
    complex texts and write with multiple types of evidence to support writing for various purposes and audiences.
    The course will emphasize comparative writing in various forms (expository, theoretical, and critical). Students
    may elect to earn either 5 or 10 University of Washington credits and in doing so will meet the university’s
    composition requirement. This course satisfies LA 12 requirements.
    HLA0465 JOURNALISM WRITING
    Length/Credit: Semester / 0.5 credit
    Prerequisite: None
    Other: Open to all students in grades 9-12 except those who have already taken Newspaper and/or Yearbook.
    Introduction to journalism will introduce principles of journalism and focus primarily on improving writing.
    During the course, students will gain competence in journalistic writing (news, features, opinions) while
    exploring arts & entertainment and sports topics. In addition to increasing reading strategies, student press law
    and journalistic ethics, students will also practice photojournalism and basic print publication design. This course
    may also be used for language arts credit retrieval. Please see your counselor for details.
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    HCT7245/7246 PUBLISH JOURNALISM 1/2
    Length/Credit: Yearlong / 0.5 credit per semester
    Credit Type: CTE/Occupational Ed
    Prerequisite: None
    Other: This class may be repeated as an elective
    Newspaper production combines journalistic writing with newspaper production, photography, advertising,
    budgeting, graphic design, and electronic media. The ultimate goal is the production of the school newspaper,
    The Talisman. Students learn about the rights guaranteed by the First Amendment, the responsibilities of the
    press to inform, the ethical responsibility of truthfulness, fairness, accuracy and objectivity, and other principles
    as well as practical skills of analytical writing, print publication design, and general paper production.
    HCT7247/7248 PUBLISH JOURNALISM 3/4
    Length/Credit: Yearlong / 0.5 credit per semester
    Credit Type: CTE/Occupational Ed
    Prerequisite: Publish Journalism 1 & 2
    Other: This class may be repeated as an elective
    In addition to enhancing their skills as reporters, designers and producers of the school newspaper, students will
    take on more of a leadership role. Students also learn more about the business of and circulation of a
    newspaper. Students will continue to refine their skills in principles of journalism, layout and design, and
    desktop publishing utilizing desktop publishing software.
    HCT7285/7286 PUBLISHING YEARBOOK 1/2
    Length/Credit: Yearlong / 0.5 credit per semester
    Credit Type: CTE/Occupational Ed
    Prerequisite: None
    Other: This class may be repeated as an elective
    Yearbook Production combines journalistic writing with print production, photography, advertising, budgeting,
    graphic design, general yearbook production, and electronic media. The ultimate goal is the production of the
    school yearbook. Students learn about the rights guaranteed by the First Amendment, the responsibilities of the
    press to inform, the ethical responsibility of truthfulness, fairness, accuracy and objectivity, and other principles
    as well as practical skills of analytical writing, layout, word processing, computer skills, and general paper
    production.
    HCT7287/7288 PUBLISHING YEARBOOK 3/4
    Length/Credit: Yearlong / 0.5 credit per semester
    Credit Type: CTE/Occupational Ed
    Prerequisite: Publishing Yearbook 1 & 2
    Other: This class may be repeated as an elective
    In this second year, students will take on more of a leadership role in producing the yearbook. Working under
    strict deadlines with the help of the advisor, students use online design software to capture the year. May be cross credited with Art.

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