Investigation Into Literature

In this course, we will follow the Ohio Department of Education standards for 6th grade ELA focusing on the importance of telling our own stories, exploring the complex characters of fiction reading, and analyzing themes in fiction reading. The curriculum includes Personal Narrative (Lucy Calkins’ Personal Narrative: Crafting Powerful Life Stories), Fiction Reading (Lucy Calkins’ A Deep Study of Character) and Literary Analysis (Lucy Calkins’ The Literary Essay). By the end of this course students will be able to critically analyze and inquire about the content they read and answer the essential question, “Why is storytelling an important part of culture and society?” 

Contemporary Literature

In this course, we will follow the Ohio Department of Education standards for 6th grade ELA with an emphasis on becoming confident writers, clear thinkers, and investigative readers. Curriculum includes three units: Reading Nonfiction (Lucy Calkins’ Tapping the Power of Nonfiction), Writing Informative Texts (Lucy Calkins’ Research-Based Information Writing), and Reading Fiction (Lucy Calkins’ Social Issues Book Clubs). After this course, students will be able to concisely summarize both fiction and nonfiction texts, accurately deploy direct quotations to illustrate clear points, and analyze how fictional characters wrestle with social issues relevant to today’s world.

Realistic Fiction 

In this course, we will follow the Ohio Department of Education standards for 7th grade ELA focusing on the importance of writing realistic fiction, investigating characters of fiction reading, and comparing and contrasting fiction reading themes.  The curriculum includes Realistic Fiction Book Clubs  (Lucy Calkins’ Argument, Information, and Narrative Writing), Investigating Characters (Lucy Calkins’ Investigating Characterization: Author-Study Book Clubs), and Literary Nonfiction (Lucy Calkins’ An Indepth Look at Literary Nonfiction).  By the end of this course, students will be able to inquire about the content they read, investigate and analyze fictional character development, and write their own realistic fiction stories. 

American Literature

In this course, we will follow the Ohio Department of Education standards for 7th grade ELA with an emphasis on becoming more effective researchers, informational writers, and passionate speakers.  Curriculum includes three units: Nonfiction research partnerships, (Lucy Calkins’ Essential Research Skills for Teens), learning about and relating to teens affected by historical events (Lucy Calkins’ Historical Fiction Book Clubs), and Shakespearean Poetry (Odes and Sonnets).  After this course, students will be able to recognize ideas and causes they are passionate about, recognize internal and external bias, consider the other side of an argument, develop a script and record a “TED Talk'' based on a relevant and researched topic with which they are passionate.  They will also use these skills in relationship to historical fiction characters and recognize how historical events impacted young people of that era.  Last, students will learn how to creatively write their own odes and sonnets.

Fact and Fiction in Literature 

Fact and Fiction in Literature is a course where students will spend significant time developing their reading and writing stamina. We will follow the Ohio Department of Education standards for 8th grade ELA, specifically focusing on analyzing author’s craft and identifying patterns in nonfiction literature. This course will include three Units: Identifying Trends in Nonfiction Literature (Lucy Calkins’ Literary Nonfiction), Literary Analysis (Lucy Calkins’ The Literary Essay: Analyzing Craft and Theme), and Contemporary Fiction Book Studies (Lucy Calkins’ Critical Literacy: Unlocking Contemporary Fiction). At the end of this course, students will move on to Multicultural Literature in the Spring.

Multicultural Literature 

Multicultural Literature is a course where students will continue to build their skills as readers and writers. We will follow the Ohio Department of Education standards for 8th grade ELA with a special emphasis on journalism, debate, public speaking, and dystopian literature. This course will include three units: Informational Writing (Lucy Calkins’ Investigative Journalism), Argumentative Writing (Lucy Calkins’ Position Papers: Research and Argument), and Dystopian Literature (Lucy Calkins’ Dystopian Book Clubs). By the end of this course, students will be well prepared to take on more advanced high school courses.

English 9 (8th Grade Only) 

English 9 is an accelerated course covering 9th grade Ohio State Standards that provides an opportunity for students to expand upon competencies in reading, writing, speaking, and listening. This course focuses on the development of reading strategies that help students navigate through various types of academic texts both expository and narrative. Students leave this class more effective, thoughtful, and strategic readers. Students read and write frequently and plentifully and continue to acquire the fundamentals of grammar and broaden their vocabulary. Topics in this course include literary analysis of fiction short stories, argumentation and rhetorical devices, and personally relevant research.

Integrated Mathematics I

Two sections of Integrated Mathematics prepare students for entry into the next sequential course, Pre-Algebra A and B.  Integrated Mathematics I is designed to provide a strong foundation for all future mathematics courses. This course will dive deep into ratios and proportions, the number system, and expressions and equations. Learning activities rooted in application will challenge students to consider the “why” behind the math. 

Integrated Mathematics II

Two sections of Integrated Mathematics prepare students for entry into the following math course, Pre-Algebra A & B.  This semester, Integrated Mathematics II content continues the study of 6th grade standards and content.  To prepare students for both the 6th grade AIR test as well as Pre-Algebra, content will include the real number system, expressions and equations, statistics, and geometry.

Pre-Algebra A

Pre-Algebra A is the first math course in a three course-long series that prepares students for high school Algebra 1.This course follows the Ohio Department of Education standards for 7th grade Math, along with learning tools such as Mathspace. The curriculum includes four units covering Integers and Rational Numbers, Expressions, Equations & Inequalities, Ratios, Unit Rates, and Percents, and Proportional and Linear Relationships.

Pre-Algebra B

Pre-Algebra B is the second math course in a three course-long series that prepares students for high school Algebra 1.This course follows the Ohio Department of Education standards for 7th and 8th grade Math, along with learning tools such as Mathspace. The curriculum includes four units covering Probability, Triangles & Transversals, Geometry, and Statistics.

Pre-Algebra C

This final section of Pre-Algebra prepares students for entry into the first high school credit math course, Algebra 1.  Pre-Algebra C content includes the study of the real number system, expressions and equations, linear functions/relationships, statistics, and geometryand follows Ohio Department of Education standards for 8th grade. Units of study are listed below.Click here to view all learning targets and standards for the course. Mastery completion of Pre-Algebra C will place students in Algebra 1 during the Spring Semester.

Algebra 1

Algebra 1 is the first math course in the high school math series and follows the Ohio Department of Education standards for Algebra 1. Mastery in Algebra 1 results in a high school credit. Each of the skills you will learn in this course are essential to your success in subsequent math courses. This course is an semester long course following a challenging, accelerated pace to cover the following targets: Relations and Functions, Systems of linear equations and Inequalities, Exponents and Exponential Functions, Polynomials, Factoring and Quadratic Equations, Data Analysis, Quadratic equations and quadratic functions.

Energy & the Environment

In this course, we use the Next Generation Science Standards for middle school Earth & Space Science and Physical Science.  Students will explore and investigate units covering nature of science, structures and properties of matter, energy, and human impact on Earth’s systems. In this course, students will be exposed to three distinct and equally important dimensions to learning science; disciplinary core ideas, crosscutting concepts and science & engineering practices. The content of this course builds on students’ prior knowledge from elementary science and helps prepare and ensure student success in future science courses.

Life As We Know It

In this course, we use the Next Generation Science Standards for middle school Life Science.  Students will explore and investigate units covering molecules to organisms: structures and processes,  and interactions, energy, and dynamics relationships in ecosystems. In this course, students will be exposed to three distinct and equally important dimensions to learning science; disciplinary core ideas, crosscutting concepts and science & engineering practices. The content of this course builds on students’ prior knowledge from elementary science and helps prepare and ensure student success in future science courses. 

Motion & Stability

In this course, students will progress through specific Next Generation Science standards that surround physical science. Curriculum includes 3 units covering topics related to Newton’s Laws of Motion, speed & velocity, forces, electricity, and magnetism. In this course, students are also exposed to a blend of educational practices, including direct instruction, demonstrations, experiments, and projects that help students work through the scientific and design processes. The content of this course builds on students’ prior knowledge from elementary science and helps prepare and ensure student success in high school science courses.

Our Changing Earth

In this course, students will progress through specific Next Generation Science standards that surround Earth and space science. Curriculum includes 3 units covering topics related to the solar system and the relationship between the objects in it, the water cycle and basic weather patterns, and the geologic forces that help shape the planet as we know it. In this course students are also exposed to a blend of educational practices, including direct instruction, demonstrations, experiments, and projects that help students work through the scientific and design processes. The content of this course builds on students’ prior knowledge from elementary science and helps prepare and ensure student success in high school science courses.

Alchemy in Action

In this course, we will follow the Next Generation Science Standards standards for middle school physical science. Curriculum includes 3 units covering Atoms and the Periodic Table, Elements, Compounds and Mixtures, Law of Conservation of Mass, Physical and Chemical Changes, Natural and Synthetic Materials, Acids, Bases and pH, Thermal Energy, Macromolecules, and Energy Transfer. After this course, students will be able to model atoms and extended structures, examine the properties of substances before and after the substances interact to determine if a chemical reaction has occurred, and explain how chemistry affects our daily lives. In this course students are also exposed to a blend of educational practices, including direct instruction, demonstrations, experiments, and projects that help students work through the scientific and design processes. The content of this course builds on students’ prior knowledge from elementary science and helps prepare and ensure student success in high school science courses.                                                                                

Medical Detectives

In this course, we will follow some of the the Next Generation Science Standards standards for middle school life science. Curriculum includes 3 units covering Cell Division, Genetics, Evolutionary Biology, Medical Technology, Human and Animal Anatomy, and the Nervous System. After this course, students will be able to explain how groups of specialized cells work together to create a complex multicellular organism, how environmental and genetic factors influence the growth of organisms, how genetic variations of traits in a population increase some individuals’ probability of surviving and reproducing in a specific environment and what this means for populations over time. They also will have a basic understanding of the nervous system and how we use it to gather sensory information about our environment for immediate behavior or storage as memories. In this course students are also exposed to a blend of educational practices, including direct instruction, demonstrations, experiments, and projects that help students work through the scientific and design processes. The content of this course builds on students’ prior knowledge from elementary science and helps prepare and ensure student success in high school science courses.   

Regions & People I

In this course, students will cover half of the Ohio Department of Education standards for sixth grade social studies. Students will be challenged to uncover their own heritages and cultures as well as learn about other cultures and religions that exist around them. This course will also allow students to learn about the earliest humans, as well as, explore the earliest civilization: Mesopotamia. Additionally, students will analyze the impact of supply and demand and competition on market prices. Furthermore, students will begin to understand more about global trade, specialization and the impact of choices made within an economy. 

Regions & People II

In this course, students will cover the second half of the Ohio Department of Education standards for sixth grade social studies.This semester will start out with an exploration of Black and women’s history. Students will be challenged to research and present about figures in Black and women’s history. This course will also allow students to learn about more ancient civilizations including China, Egypt, and India. Students will explore how geography influences human activity and produces innovation to help navigate the land.  Additionally, students will take a deep dive into the different forms of governments as well as the rights and responsibilities given to the rulers and the citizens. 

World Studies I: 750BC - 1400AD

This course will look at world history from the period of the Ancient Greek and Roman Empires to the time period of trade and exploration in the 1500’s. The course will be broken into thematic units: Ancient Greece/Rome, Middle Ages, Renaissance, Reformation of the church. In these units we will look at the global impacts of these ancient world achievements by making connections to our lives today. Students will make class connections to understand how these achievements later get shared through the European trade and exploration time period to the Western world. Students will engage in learning through research driven projects, discussions, primary and secondary source analysis, and hands-on activities.

World Studies II: 1400AD - 1600AD

World Studies II picks up where World Studies I leaves off. The time period covered will be broken down into the units of The Mongol Empire, Islamic Civilizations, West African Empires, and The Columbian Exchange. These units explain the impact of the civilizations and people that have shaped the global modern world today. Themes will also be related to Current Events as much as possible to help the students to learn the importance of World History, even in today's norms and conditions.Students will engage in learning through research driven projects, discussions, primary and secondary source analysis, and hands-on activities. 

American Studies I: New World Order to Interruption

American Studies I takes students on a journey that explores land that belonged to indigeonous peoples who would soon have their worlds turned upside down by Europeans in search of a new life.. As Europe grew increasingly oppressive, people began realizing they deserved better and sought to achieve that, by any means necessary. In this course, students will learn how to analyze primary & secondary sources and use that knowledge to evaluate how the landscape of the Americas changed by European domination for their quest of religious and economic freedom. From the years 1491 to 1788, we’ll take broad and narrow looks at the idea of a free country, led by refugees from Europe, became future Colonists of the New World and set the path for a complicated America.

American Studies II: United & Divided

American Studies II  is a course designed to challenge students to think outside the constructed norms of current society in ways to be better for their future. We will explore the land we now call home, from the drafting and ratification of the United States Constitution in 1789 to the year 1877, where we investigate the reconstruction era that caused political and racial tension that can be felt in present day America. As we began to develop into the powerhouse the United States is known for, it almost unraveled right before the eyes of the pioneers who fought hard for this land to fulfill the promise of the constitution.

STEM Foundations (6th grade)

This nine-week course partners with OSU’s TEK8 program, as students explore Ohio’s technology standards and learn about how an iterative design process and technology can be used to solve problems that matter to people. 

The Internet of Things (7th grade)

This nine-week course applies the design process to information technology and Ohio’s standards for Computer Science.  Students learn about what a computer is, how the internet works and how we cause computational thinking to solve problems.

Computer Science Applications (8th Grade)

As the sequel to the Internet of Things, this class dives deeper into the Computer Science Standards, focusing on algorithm design, debugging and representing data. 

Prototyping & Problem Solving (8th Grade)

This nine-week course allows 8th graders to dig deeper into using research and science to define and understand problems, and drive their solutions forward.  Students have access to laser-cutting and 3-D printing, microcontrollers and more as they prototype and iterate solutions to problems. 

6th Grade Wellness

Middle School Wellness & Fitness is designed to motivate students to build healthy lifestyles for today and the future in all aspects of health: physical, mental/emotional, and social. The curriculum is designed to increase student knowledge & skills in a variety of adolescent health topics in order to achieve and maintain wellness. Topics to be addressed include healthy behaviors, goal setting, decision-making, and nutrition. In addition, students will regularly participate in physical activity to enhance their individual fitness levels. During this course, students will demonstrate an improvement in their cardiovascular endurance and muscular endurance, as well as, learn a variety of sports and activities. This includes but is not limited to team sports (Basketball, Team Handball) net games (Volleyball, Pickleball), and invasion games (Flag Football, Soccer).

7th Grade Wellness

Middle School Wellness & Fitness is designed to motivate students to build healthy lifestyles for today and the future in all aspects of health: physical, mental/emotional, and social. The curriculum is designed to increase student knowledge & skills in a variety of adolescent health topics in order to achieve and maintain wellness. Topics to be addressed include healthy behaviors, goal setting, decision-making, and body systems. In addition, students will regularly participate in physical activity to enhance their individual fitness levels. During this course, students will demonstrate an improvement in their cardiovascular endurance and muscular endurance, as well as learn a variety of sports and activities. This includes but is not limited to team sports (Basketball, Team Handball) net games (Volleyball, Pickleball), and invasion games (Flag Football, Soccer).

8th Grade Wellness

Middle School Wellness & Fitness is designed to motivate students to build healthy lifestyles for today and the future in all aspects of health: physical, mental/emotional, and social. The curriculum is designed to increase student knowledge & skills in a variety of adolescent health topics in order to achieve and maintain wellness. Topics to be addressed include: healthy relationships, harmful effects of drugs and alcohol, and drug abuse/addiction. In addition, students will regularly participate in physical activity to enhance their individual fitness levels. During this course, students will demonstrate an improvement in their cardiovascular endurance and muscular endurance, as well as learn a variety of sports and activities.

6th Grade Visual Arts

6th grade Visual Arts, using the Ohio Learning Standards for Fine Arts, focuses on beginning technique and design including the basics of drawing, painting, and sculpture. We will concentrate on the Elements and Principles of Design, understanding concept, process, and composition along with what it takes to create a successful artwork and how to self-assess that work. 

7th Grade Visual Arts

Following the ODE Standards for 7th grade Visual Arts, we branch into TAB which is a student-choice led classroom system where each student has 70 - 100% autonomy when creating their art projects. This teaches the students creative/ abstract thinking, metacognition, and decision making skills. With this beginning intro to tab, the students will focus on creating works influenced by real world issues and human connection and will have the opportunity to apply their concepts through drawing, painting, sculpture, written pieces, dance, song, etc.  

8th Grade Visual Arts

8th grade Visual Arts continues with TAB learning following the ODE Visual Arts Standards. During this grade level, students will obtain 100% creative autonomy, creating works conceptualized by them from start to finish. This allows the students to become creative change-makers who improve the lives of all.

English 9: Reading & Writing for High School

English 9 focuses on the development of reading and writing skills to prepare students for the academic rigor of high school. In this course, students will read, analyze, discuss, and write about various types of academic texts both literary and informational, in order to become more effective, thoughtful, and strategic readers. In addition, students will examine how visuals, graphs, and other literary devices impact a text's meaning and the audience’s interpretation of the text. Through a survey of short stories, informational essays, a graphic novel, and personal research, students will develop critical thinking skills and the ability to express their ideas in discussion and writing, develop analytical and argumentative writing skills, and foster academically rigorous research skills to prepare them for high school-level courses.

English 10: Multicultural Literary Perspectives

 English 10 builds on concepts and skills taught in English 9, but the discussions of literature go into more depth, the composition assignment load is heavier, and additional works of literature and nonfiction are read. Students are expected to learn and demonstrate sophisticated organization, development, and sentence structure in expository, analytical, and argumentative writing modes. Major works are supplemented by selected short fiction and nonfiction units, which provide topics for discussion of major literary techniques. The curriculum for this course is based on the Ohio State Standards and in alignment with the English 10 Ohio State Test (OST), which all students will take toward the end of the semester.

English 11: American Literary Perspectives

English 11 focuses on American literature - both fiction and nonfiction - in order to prepare students to think critically through reading, writing and discussion. Students will read and analyze foundational American documents, iconic speeches, and classic works of drama, fiction and poetry all representing a broad range of perspectives in order to gain a well-rounded understanding of American literature and the many voices and cultures that have shaped our past and present. Using master texts as a guide, students will carefully analyze and evaluate the underlying techniques that make each of these works so powerful. Students will then be tasked with employing these techniques in the creation of original speeches, stories, and scholarly dialogue that reflect their own unique perspectives.

English 12: Reading & Writing for College

 English 12 builds on principles of literary critical theory introduced in English 11, which seek to equip students with the tools and framework to engage in rigorous, college-level analytical thinking and writing on a range of texts in various media. This course focuses on students' writing skills with the primary texts being important American essays throughout history and other students' work. These studies culminate into an annotated bibliography, multiple essays, and a final timed writing.  By mastering English 12, students will be firmly equipped to engage with literature with college-level rigor and adapt to different modes of professional writing.

Algebra I

Algebra 1 is the first math course in the high school math series and follows the Ohio Department of Education standards for Algebra 1. Mastery in Algebra 1 results in a high school credit. Each skill you will learn in this course is essential to your success in subsequent math courses. This course is a semester-long course following a challenging, accelerated pace to cover the following targets: Relations and Functions, Systems of linear equations and Inequalities, Exponents and Exponential Functions, Polynomials, Factoring and Quadratic Equations, Data Analysis, and Quadratic equations and quadratic functions.

Geometry

Geometry is a second math course in the high school math series where students explore and use properties and measurements of geometric figures to solve mathematical and real-world problems. Students use inductive and deductive reasoning to explore through visual and analytic methods and design challenges. Topics include an explicit vocabulary, analysis of lines and angles, midpoint and distance, proof and logic, triangles, introduction to trigonometry, polygons, 2- and 3-dimensional formulas in geometry, circles, and probability.

Discrete Mathematics

Acquiring foundational knowledge in Discrete Mathematics and basic programming skills is the primary objective and outcome of the Discrete Math/Computer Science course. It uses mathematical reasoning and computational thinking in the context of JavaScript and unplugged activities to learn concepts of Discrete Mathematics. Ohio’s Learning Standards related to Mathematics and Computer Science are taught along with the data demands of good citizenship in the 21st century. These habits and skills cut across disciplines and other languages, promote perseverance, and provide a gateway to successful postsecondary education and a variety of careers. This course satisfies the credit requirement for Algebra 2.  Prerequisite: Algebra 1 & Geometry

Statistics

 High School Statistics focuses on the mathematics of data collection and analysis.  It will help students to be more discerning consumers of statistics, teaching how to interpret numbers in surveys, polls, and studies.  Topics include data analysis, probability, inferential statistics, confidence intervals, and hypothesis testing. Students use exploratory methods to identify patterns and make decisions. Emphasis is placed on applications and statistics to solve real-life problems.

Algebra II

Algebra II is the third course in the series of courses that develop advanced mathematical concepts. Algebra II is designed to review, expand, and extend algebraic and geometric concepts. The course explores the transformations and operations of specific functions such as absolute value, piecewise, quadratic, and polynomial functions. It develops advanced algebra skills such as solving systems of equations and introduces students to the concepts of imaginary numbers, complex numbers, and matrices. This course is designed to help students apply the mathematics they learn in the classroom to real-world situations, model mathematical situations, communicate mathematically, and use technology appropriately.

Trigonometry

 Trigonometry is an advanced mathematics course that extends algebraic concepts through an analytic and graphic study of radical, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions over the real number system. Students are introduced to the concepts of sequences and series and extend their knowledge of right triangle trigonometry to the study of unit circle trigonometry and analytic trigonometry. Finally, students study the structure of trigonometric graphs.

Pre-Calculus

Pre-Calculus expands upon students' existing knowledge of functions and trigonometry. The course emphasizes modeling and analysis of concepts including: the detailed analysis and graphing of trigonometric functions (addressing domain, range, amplitude, transformations, and asymptotes); analytic trigonometry (covering inverse functions, proofs of identities, and solving trigonometric equations); vectors, polar coordinates, and complex numbers (with a focus on graphical representation and operations); and foundational concepts of limits as an introduction to calculus. Desmos activities are integrated as a learning tool to promote deeper conceptual understanding.

Calculus

Calculus is a high school course aligned with a college-level Calculus I course. Topics in Calculus include limits, derivatives, and integrals. Calculus allows students to work through most of the topics covered in differential Calculus and some of those covered in Integral Calculus: limits, derivatives, and integrals. As part of differential Calculus, students explore the idea of “infinity," derivatives as “rates of change,” and how to apply each of the above to everyday situations. Students will disembark from Metro math classes after this course.

World Studies

World Studies examines world events from 1600 to the present. It explores the impact of the democratic and industrial revolutions, and World Wars I and II. These forces led to world domination by European powers, the wars that changed empires, the ideas that led to independence movements, and the effects of global interdependence. Students will analyze historical patterns, cause-and-effect relationships, and the development of political ideologies that continue to influence the modern world. The course emphasizes critical thinking and global awareness through the study of major turning points such as colonialism, world wars, decolonization, and globalization. Engaging with primary and secondary sources, students will evaluate how history shapes current international issues and cultural identities. Collaborative projects, discussions, and historical inquiry will help students connect past events to contemporary global dynamics.

American History

American History examines the history of the United States of America from 1877 to the present. The class will travel through history thematically via themes like: immigration, technology, cultural and social changes, and minority experiences. Students will investigate key events such as industrialization, the world wars, the Great Depression, the Civil Rights Movement, and recent developments in domestic and foreign policy. Emphasis will be placed on analyzing how these events and themes have shaped modern American identity and continue to impact society today. Through the use of historical documents, media analysis, and critical discussion, students will gain a deeper understanding of the forces that have influenced change and continuity in the American experience. The course encourages students to think like historians—asking questions, evaluating sources, and drawing connections between past and present.

Government - 1 Social Studies Credit

This course explores the relationship between individual Americans and the governing bodies at the local, state, and federal level. Students will examine the principles of the U.S. Constitution, the structure of the three branches of government, and the role of political parties and interest groups. Emphasis will be placed on public policy, civic engagement, and the rules and responsibilities of each branch of government at each level of government in order to help students develop the skills needed to participate in a democratic society. Through discussion, debate, and project-based learning, students will gain a deeper understanding of how government decisions impact their daily lives and how they can influence those decisions as informed citizens.

Environmental Justice

Environmental Justice is designed to teach foundational concepts about environmental science and promote critical thinking about how humans are impacted by the Earth's resources and use or distribution of those resources. Through the course, students will learn foundational science concepts and apply these concepts to current environmental issues in the land, water, atmosphere, living things, and energy resources.

Biology

Biology is an introductory science course to prepare students for college biological science courses as well as future science courses at Metro. Topics include the elements of life, cellular structure and function, cellular processes, heredity, genetic disease, phylogeny, evolutionary processes, ecosystems, disease ecology, and human body systems. Students gain understanding and laboratory experience through activities, projects, quizzes, and lab experimentation.

Chemistry

Chemistry is an introductory course that teaches fundamental chemical concepts and laboratory techniques to prepare students for college chemistry coursework. Topics include classifying matter, atomic structure, the periodic table and periodicity trends, atomic orbitals and electron configuration, chemical bonding and nomenclature, chemical equations, stoichiometry, and gas laws. Students gain and demonstrate content knowledge and laboratory efficacy through quizzes, projects, experiments, lab reports, and other activities.

Physics

Students who master physics will be able to analyze real-world situations through the lens of kinematics, force and momentum, energy, electricity and magnetism, and waves. Students will practice critical thinking and problem solving skills, work in teams to complete labs and projects, and take exams that evaluate fundamental Newtonian physics concepts and methods.

Human Body Systems

Students who master physics will be able to analyze real-world situations through the lens of kinematics, force and momentum, energy, electricity and magnetism, and waves. Students will practice critical thinking and problem solving skills, work in teams to complete labs and projects, and take exams that evaluate fundamental Newtonian physics concepts and methods.

Energy & Matter

In this introductory science course, students learn foundational concepts of chemistry and physics. Students learn about elements and compounds, chemical reactions, motion, and force through engagement in class activities. Upon mastering this course, students will be prepared for success in higher-level physical science courses like Chemistry and Physics.

Introduction to Fine Arts (2D Art)

 An introductory course in 2D art provides high school students with opportunities to explore a wide range of materials, techniques, and artistic processes. Through open-ended projects and self-directed exploration, students will develop artistic confidence and build foundational skills while pursuing individual ideas and interests.This course fosters independent thinking, creative problem-solving, and an appreciation for diverse artistic voices. It serves as a strong foundation for further study in the visual arts. 

3D Art

This 3D Art course combines hands-on creation with art history, helping students develop their skills while exploring the cultural and historical contexts of 3D art. Students will experiment with techniques like felt-making, sculpting, weaving, painting, watercolor, and drawing to create original pieces. They’ll also study the significance and evolution of different 3D art forms, enhancing their artistic perspective. The course emphasizes refining technical skills, critiquing artwork constructively, and experimenting with various materials, encouraging creativity and artistic growth in a supportive environment.

Fundamentals of Information Technology

This course is an introduction to the field of Information Technology including technology concepts, terminology, hardware components and software applications. Students will be introduced to, and asked to apply, basic skills in the core areas of information technology such as programming, database management, networking, systems administration, web development and the basic research, problem-solving and decision-making skills required to be successful in this field. The course emphasizes the role of technical communication, project management, languages, tools, models and application architectures within the IT development process.

Mechatronics

Mechatronics is a multidisciplinary course where students will develop a variety of skills to design, modify, and replicate automated and mechanical systems. Topics covered will include the Design Process, CAD & 3D Printing, Simple Machines, Basic Electronics, Programming, and Robotics.

Computer Science Essentials

An introductory prerequisite-free course. Students begin with block-based coding and smoothly transition into text-based programming using Python®, gaining the skills to build apps and create programs that solve real-world problems. Through hands-on projects, they’ll practice computational thinking, explore ethical computing, and discover career paths in technology and software development.

Computer Science Principles

Computer Science Principles (CSP) is the secondary course after Computer Science Essentials, CSP Uses Python® as a primary tool, students learn the fundamentals of coding, data processing, data security, and task automation while learning to contribute to an inclusive, safe, and ethical computing culture. Computer Science Principles helps students develop programming expertise and explore the workings of the Internet. Projects and problems include app development, visualization of data, cybersecurity, and simulation. 

Health & Physical Education (Wellness)

Wellness is a combined class where students complete 120 hours of P.E. fitness and 60 hours of Health instruction. Health consists of nutrition, drug abuse, including prescription opioid abuse prevention, organ and tissue donation, suicide prevention, healthy and unhealthy relationships, sexual education, STI prevention, and CPR certification. P.E. includes class participation w/physical training tests, various sports w/skill improvement within each sport, self defense, yoga, basic anatomy and stretching.

World Languages

Language classes offered are ASL 1, 2 & 3; Chinese 1 & 2; Spanish 1, 2 & 3.

Classes are for 1 credit and must be completed in a semester. Each language consists of a total of 18 units (9 in quarter A and 9 in quarter B).

World Language classes are graded classes (NOT mastery classes). This means the grade a student earns in World Language will be transcripted—so an earned B or C will show up as that on a transcript instead of a WIP.

Entrepreneurship

This course introduces students to key concepts in business and entrepreneurship. Students will explore the essential skills required to create and manage a business, understand basic economic principles, and analyze the roles of entrepreneurship within the business ecosystem. Topics will include financial literacy, marketing fundamentals, business ethics, and an introduction to business planning.

This course also includes the CTE Ohio standards for Business Foundations and Financial Literacy.

Web Development

Introduction to Web Development is a college-level course that covers the basics of styling and layout of Web pages using CSS and HTML languages. This is a hands-on, lab-centered course where the students will design their own webpage from scratch. They will also learn about human-centered design in web development and tailor their websites for user interaction. No prior knowledge is required. The course is taught through the University of Cincinnati and students can get college credit if they transfer into the UC IT Program. However, as a result it is a graded, non-remediation course.

Business Foundations - See Entrepreneurship

Financial Literacy - See Entrepreneurship

Design

Design is a year long STEM Early College Experience that integrates Principles of Engineering, Digital Electronics, Automated Systems and Robotics with college level Computer Programming and Math coursework. Enrollment in this program includes participation in Metro's FIRST Robotics team's planning, build, and competition seasons.

Fall Semester Courses:

• Advisory: Yearlong course

• Advanced Mechatronics

• Digital Electronics

• Engineering Logic

Spring Semester:

Students participate in A Design Capstone Research course, where they are placed in an internship with a professional within a field of their interest. Previous Capstone Research projects have included explorations into the effects of Radiation on electronic equipment to simulate the effects of space travel, hot embossing polymer plastics in microchips, and ways to improve the efficiency of diesel engines. The program is designed for students interested in Engineering fields.

Bodies

The Bodies program offers a rigorous, early-college experience in biomedical sciences for academically advanced high school juniors and seniors. Designed to engage, challenge, and prepare high-achieving students for future careers in the biomedical field, the program emphasizes both academic excellence and professional development.

Fall Semester Courses:

• Advisory: A yearlong course focused on developing pre-professional skills essential for success in biomedical and healthcare related fields. Students earn the OhioMeansJob graduation seal through the school year.

• Medical Interventions & Medical Terminology: A combined course that explores diagnostic and treatment strategies used in modern medicine, alongside a comprehensive introduction to medical language.

• Biomedical Career Rotations: A unique opportunity for students to explore a variety of biomedical careers through interactive experiences, site visits, and professional exposure.

Spring Semester:

Students participate in the Bodies Capstone Research course, where they are matched with a biomedical researcher and participate in workforce development. Under the joint supervision of the mentor and a Bodies instructor, students complete the full scientific research process—from developing a research question to presenting their findings.

Growth

The Growth program was created to provide a rigorous early-college programmatic option to explore career fields in business, agribusiness, law, social sciences, and others based on student interest for accelerated high school juniors and seniors. We will not explore any medical or engineering career fields. 

Fall Semester Core Courses:

• Advisory: A year-long course focused on developing pre-professional skills essential for success in biomedical and healthcare-related fields.

• CTE Marketing Principles: Semester-long course that provides students with a comprehensive understanding of key marketing concepts, including market research, consumer behavior, branding, and promotional strategies. 

• Career Rotations: A unique opportunity for students to explore a variety of careers through interactive experiences and professional exposure.

Spring Semester:

Students participate in the Growth Capstone Research course, where individuals are placed within a field of their interest. Under the joint supervision of the mentor and the Growth instructor, students contribute towards a project or research, providing students an in-depth work-based learning experience.

Throughout the academic year, Growth students also enroll in college-level coursework, providing them with foundational knowledge and credits toward post-secondary education.

Energy

The Clean Energy Systems & Sustainability program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the engineering, design, and sustainability principles that drive the clean energy sector. Through a combination of technical exploration and hands-on application, students gain the skills and knowledge necessary to address real-world energy challenges.

The course is divided into two key components:

• Clean Energy Systems: In this portion of the course, students investigate a range of renewable energy technologies, including solar, wind, and electric power systems. Emphasis is placed on both the engineering foundations and the environmental impact of each technology, highlighting their role in the global shift toward sustainable energy solutions.

• Capstone Internship: In the second half of the course, students apply their learning through a guided internship experience. Working alongside industry professionals or academic mentors, students engage in collaborative, project-based work. Using the engineering design process, they address real-world challenges and contribute to the development of innovative clean energy solutions.

This program emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration and prepares students for future academic and career pathways in sustainability, engineering, and environmental science.

Senior Communications

Grade 12 Full Year Advisory

Senior Communications is a year-long advisory course designed to support seniors as they navigate the transition from high school to post-secondary life. The course focuses on the essential components of the college application process, including researching and applying to colleges, completing the FAFSA, understanding financial aid packages, and applying for scholarships. Students will also receive guidance on how to evaluate their options and make informed decisions about where to enroll.

In addition to the practical aspects of college and career planning, Senior Communications emphasizes community building within the senior class, offering opportunities to reflect, connect, and celebrate milestones together throughout the year.

College Coursework

Access to additional college courses for students who qualify.

Students are advised to enroll in General Education courses that are required for most majors and will typically transfer to other colleges/universities. Coursework can be completed at The Ohio State University or Columbus State Community College based on students meeting set requirements. Students eligible to take college courses must submit an application prior to the semester when they will take their first class. All scheduling will take place through a Metro college Advisor.

Senior Innovations

The mission of this course is to provide students with meaningful experiences in order to:

• Develop a sense of professional achievement through engagement in “real-world” work

• Develop a high degree of professionalism through application of the Metro Habits

• Develop accelerated skills in the Design Process / Project Management

• Develop abilities to apply statistical principles/abilities to“real-world” situations

Real-World Experience

Students are encouraged to complete a field experience during their time at Metro in order to apply the Metro Habits and principles of design/research in an authentic setting. The course provides that opportunity through a passion project designed for real-world outcomes. Students will explore the Stanford Design Process (emphasis on “Empathy” stage), complete Embold’s Lean 6 Sigma certification course for Project Management (3 points towards the Industry-Recognized Credential Seal for Ohio Graduation), and are led by faculty/staff of The Ohio State University (OSU)’s Battelle Center regarding “rapid prototyping” via the Design Process.

Material from previous collaborations with OSU’s College of Education Quantitative Methodology Center (QMC) regarding the use/facilitation of statistical (quantitative) data to find and communicate solutions to real-world problems/issues will be facilitated by the Metro Coordinator. This work will be research/inquiry-based and is designed to elevate student voices regarding their passions to make an authentic impact to the world around them.

Senior Innovations is designed for students who do not complete an ECE in 11th grade.