Special Needs

Department Chair: Nancy Burris

Special Education programs are available for students who are experiencing learning difficulties due to any of several handicapping conditions. To qualify for Special Education services, students must be evaluated and recommended by a FUSD Multi-Disciplinary Diagnostics Team. Parent participation in placement and planning decisions is required. Course requirements vary according to each student’s Individualized Educational Plan (IEP). Students must be staffed into Special Education to enroll in these courses. In addition to the following courses, cooperative classes combine Special Education students and teachers with regular education students and teachers in team situations. Students may receive content instruction from a teacher specializing in that content area as well as special support from Special Education teachers. All strategies classes require the signature of a Special Ed case manager before enrollment is possible.

CLASSES OFFERED
2007 - 2008

STRATEGIES READING CLASSES:
Strategies Reading A

A class designed for students who have reading levels between 1st and 2nd grades.

Strategies Reading B

A class designed for students who have reading levels between 3rd and 5th grades.

STRATEGIES ENGLISH CLASSES:
Strategies English 9

This class is designed with an emphasis on reading comprehension and basic writing skills through a study of
world literature, including short stories, poetry, and nonfiction selections. Study skills, goal setting, and organizational skills are also a part of this course. Students are encouraged to build on individual strengths.

Strategies English 10

This English class includes reading, writing, public speaking, and research skills. This course fulfils the FUSD rhetoric requirement for high school graduation. Students read a variety of literature including short stories, novels, non-fiction, and poetry. Writing instruction focuses on skills needed to pass the AIMS writing test. Students will deliver speeches in this class.

Strategies English 11

This class emphasizes cross-cultural American Literature. A wide range of authors and types of literature will be read and discussed. Instruction will include analysis, writing skills, and presentations. Outside readings of works of American authors is required.

Strategies English 12

This English class is designed to build awareness of the uses and importance of English skills in everyday life. Students will receive practice in skills of note-taking, following directions, using books, job skills, and the keys to independent living. This class also focuses on writing personal messages, reports, resumes, and developing interviewing skills.

STRATEGIES MATH CLASSES:
Strategies Math I

This class is the first of three classes developed specifically for student success in Algebra. It is a basic math class designed to enhance and solidify basic math skills. It is a comprehensive mathematics curriculum that meets many state and national standards such as NCTM Standards. This class enables students of all abilities to master the basic math skills they need to succeed on standardized tests, in school as well as at home and on the job. Students who successfully complete this course need to move to Strategies Math 2.

Strategies Math II

This course is designed to assist students with basic math skills. Students will expand their knowledge of fractions, decimals, percents, ratios and proportions. Graphs and statisitics, measurement and an introduction to geometry are included.

Strategies Math III

This class is intended to prepare students to enter the general education math curriculum. It extends the presentation of algebra from Math 2, to such areas of linear equations in two variables, systems of equations, functions and their graphs, and more work on geometry, probability, and statistics. Students who have successfully completed this course should move into a general education Pre-Algebra, Applied Math I, or Algebra I.

Strategies Math IV

This class is designed for those students who do not wish to enroll in any general education math classes and who want to fulfill basic graduation requirements. This class is designed to help students develop and apply consumer math skills. Basic math skills will be used to enhance the awareness of financial decision making. Students will also practice skills in the day-to-day use of money. Topics will include loans, credit, car and home ownership, taxes, investments, and budgeting.

STRATEGIES LIFE SCIENCE CLASSES:
Strategies Health

This class is intended for students who have not been successful in Personal Fitness and still need to meet the District requirement for graduation. It is designed to help students gain the necessary information on how to establish a healthier life style.

Strategies Science Exploration

This is a hands-on class designed to introduce students to the basic fundamental science skills and the scientific process. This course will meet high school graduation requirements, but not college admission standards.

Strategies Life Science

This is a basic Life Science class intended to introduce students to concepts included on the upcoming AIMS science test. This course will meet high school graduation requirements, but not college admission standards.

STRATEGIES HISTORY CLASSES:
Strategies World History

This course will trace world history from the Renaissance through the 1990’s. Major topics will include the Renaissance, world exploration, industrial development, and major political changes. The class will conclude with a study of the collapse of the Soviet Union and the problems confronting today’s modern world.

Strategies US History

This course will examine United States history from early America, prehistory through the 20th century. Emphasis is placed on the political, military, social, and economic developments. National and international developments as well as Arizona history are integrated into this course.

Strategies American Government/Economics

This is a senior year course to prepare the student for the responsibilities of the real world. American Government investigates state and federal governmental functions in today’s society. Students will examine Government’s function and structure as it relates to each citizen. The Economics portion is designed to give each student a better understanding of the world’s economic system. Students explore personal finance, employment, and business adventures.

STRATEGIES ELECTIVE CLASSES:
Strategies Study Skills

This is an elective course to help students develop time management skills which will allow them to be successful in their high school course work. Topics to be discussed: notetaking skills, active reading techniques, time management and organizational habits, and communication tools necessary to work effectively with case managers, instructors, and aides.