Course Information | High School
High School Course Registration
Registering for courses is an important part of the high school experience at PACT. Each spring, Secondary School Counselors work closely with PACT Secondary students to share information about high school expectations and available courses. Families are encouraged to review options together and ask questions as they plan for the year ahead.
If you are new to PACT or starting mid-year, your counselor will reach out to you to set up your course schedule.
High School Course Catalog
Explore our high school courses below. Click each subject to view course descriptions and other details.
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PACT Compass
Course Numbers:
Semesters: 2Every student will be enrolled in PACT Compass. In this course, students will refine their study skills and develop their character. Advisory also serves as a place for students to track their academic progress and register for upcoming classes. This course is graded, includes a service project, and counts toward students’ GPAs.
Panther Plus
Course Number: RE7501
Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12
Semesters: 2Panther Plus is a flexible learning period that provides students with additional academic support, enrichment opportunities, and extended learning time. Held Tuesday through Friday, Panther Plus offers students teacher-led sessions, targeted assistance, and advanced coursework. Using the Responsive Schedule tool in Infinite Campus, students can view pre-assigned sessions or select their own based on availability.
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Language Arts 9
Course Numbers: 1101, 1102
Grade: 9
Semesters: 2
Credits: 1This is a broad-based class designed to help students become strong writers, creative thinkers, and informed readers. Students will develop their grammatical skills and apply them in composition assignments. Literature and nonfiction that inspire, challenge, and teach valuable lessons will be introduced.
Language Arts 10
Course Numbers: 1105, 1106
Grade: 10
Semesters: 2
Credits: 1This broad-based class is designed to help students become dynamic communicators, analytical thinkers, creative writers, and informed readers. Students will continue to develop their grammatical skills, vocabulary acquisition, and interpersonal communication skills. Literature that inspires, entertains, and teaches valuable lessons will be introduced.
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Math Course Sequence
Students progress through math courses based on their individual readiness and the completion of prior courses. To meet high school graduation requirements, all students must complete Geometry and Algebra 2.
General Courses:
- Intermediate Algebra
- Geometry
- Algebra 2
Intermediate Algebra
Course Numbers: 3101, 3102
Grade: 9
Semesters: 2
Credits: 1Prerequisite: Algebra 1
Intermediate Algebra incorporates the study of algebraic language. It will build on and develop skills for solving mathematical problems. It stresses both the structure and the development of theoretical and real-world problem-solving. Topics include: order of operations, distributive property, solving equations using properties of equality, graphing inequalities, solving inequalities, ratios and rates, proportions, inductive reasoning, linear equations, slope of a line, systems of equations, exponents, polynomials, and quadratic equations.
Geometry
Course Numbers: 3105, 3106
Grade: 10
Semesters: 2
Credits: 1Prerequisite: Intermediate Algebra
This course will cover the broad areas of proofs and formulas using an interactive problem-solving approach. Topics include fundamental concepts and patterns; geometric reasoning and proof; parallel and perpendicular lines in Euclidean geometry; triangle relationships and congruence; investigating right triangles; exploring quadrilaterals and similarity; an introduction to trigonometry; polygons; surface area, volume, and circles.
Algebra 2
Course Numbers: 3109, 3110
Grades: 11, 12
Semesters: 2
Credits: 1Prerequisite: Geometry
This course is intended to connect Algebra 1 and Geometry to provide a foundation for future math courses. Students will practice representing mathematical ideas verbally, numerically, algebraically, and graphically. Intense problem-solving, critical thinking, and vocabulary-building skills will also be reinforced. Topics studied include linear equations, relations and functions, polynomials, rational expressions and equations, radicals, quadratic equations, and systems of equations.
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Earth Science
Course Numbers: 4101, 4102
Grade: 9
Semesters: 2
Credits: 1Students will explore the natural forces that shape our planet and the expansive universe beyond. This course fosters critical thinking, scientific literacy, and curiosity for Earth and space sciences. Through hands-on labs, multimedia tools, and collaborative projects, students will enhance inquiry skills, participate in discussions, and connect learning to real-world applications. By the end of the course, students will possess the knowledge and skills to understand and appreciate the complexities of Earth’s systems and the dynamic processes that shape our world and the cosmos.
Chemistry
Course Numbers: 4103, 4104
Grade: 10
Semesters: 2
Credits: 1This course introduces students to chemistry by exploring chemical reactions, their causes, and their limitations. Students will study the periodic table, compounds, chemical bonding, stoichiometry, and chemical properties, gaining insight into how chemistry enhances our lives. It covers foundational college-level chemistry essential for various science professions and serves as excellent preparation for college science courses.
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United States History
Course Numbers: 2101, 2102
Grade: 9
Semesters: 2
Credits: 1This course will provide students with opportunities to examine key experiences in American history. Topics were chosen because they represent important turning points that altered the course of the United States. Students will understand key events in our nation's history and how they impact our world today.
Geography
Course Number: 2103
Grade: 10
Semesters: 1
Credits: .5Geography is designed to help students develop geographical skills to better understand and appreciate the different people, places, and environments around the world. Students will study various themes, including population, culture, urbanization, agriculture, economics, and political systems. Students will use Geographic Information System (GIS) tools to create and interpret various types of maps.
World History
Course Numbers: 2104, 2105
Grade: 11
Semesters: 2
Credits: 1This course will introduce students to a broad range of history from the Ancient Greeks to World War II. Students will learn about the cultures, people, and events that helped shape our world as we know it today. Students will also gain an appreciation for the contributions of other cultures to shaping the world.
Psychology
Course Number: 2203
Grades: 10, 11, 12
Semesters: 1
Credits: .5This course will cover the scientific study of human beings. Psychology attempts to identify biological, social, and environmental factors that help describe, explain, predict, and control behavior. Topics covered include the brain and nervous system, learning, thinking, memory, emotion, social psychology, personality, conflict, emotional and behavioral problems (such as anxiety, schizophrenia, depression, etc.), and psychotherapy.
Sociology
Course Number: 2204
Grades: 10, 11, 12
Semesters: 1
Credits: .5The goal of this course is to study human interaction so that students may understand the structures and functions of the basic social institutions common to all societies. The focus is primarily on contemporary American society, but comparisons with other cultures are made. Topics covered include sociological techniques, the nature of culture and cultural change, social class and social mobility, racial and ethnic relations, population pressures, the family as a social institution, and deviant behavior.
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PE Basics
Course Number: 6102
Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12
Semesters: 1
Credits: .5PE Basics is a course that offers students the opportunity to learn the basic skills and game strategies of many sports. A typical class period will start with a 10-minute fitness component that includes running, stretching, and strength-building exercises. The rest of the class will feature activities from the units we are currently in. Students will participate in various units, including but not limited to: ultimate frisbee, soccer, football, softball, badminton, pickleball, volleyball, dance, team handball, and a fitness/exercise unit. This course may be repeated once.
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Health
Course Number: 6101
Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12
Semesters: 1
Credits: .5Health education is designed to equip a high school student with the knowledge and skills needed to make positive choices for their physical, mental, and social health. Students will be taught self-responsibility and skills that promote a long, healthy life. The course motivates students to increase their quality of life by analyzing decisions that can enhance individual, family, and community health. Topics include, but are not limited to, a broad range and in-depth coverage of Mental and Emotional Health, Family/Social Health, Drugs/Alcohol/Tobacco, Body Systems, and new topics that will strengthen students’ healthy decision-making skills.
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Music Appreciation
Course Number:
Semesters:Students will gain an understanding of music by studying the elements of music, musical instruments, and musical advocacy. Students will be introduced to orchestra and music composers from around the world. Students will be required to be a composer, performer, instrument inventor, and music advocate.
Art Fundamentals
Course Number: 6023
Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12
Semesters: 1
Credits: .5This introductory course explores the creative process through hands-on media exploration and project-based learning. Students will develop foundational skills in drawing, painting, mixed media, printmaking, and sculpture while engaging in creative problem-solving. Emphasis is placed on technical skills, originality, and personal expression. No prior experience is necessary—just a willingness to experiment and create.
Drawing 1
Course Number: 6017
Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12
Semesters: 1
Credits: .5In this semester-long drawing class, developing the ability to observe details is the first step in learning or improving your drawing skills. You'll explore various drawing techniques, materials, and styles to develop your artistic skills and effectively convey ideas through visual storytelling. The comprehensive curriculum covers fundamental principles, including line types, shading, and composition, using materials such as charcoal, graphite, and ink. Through hands-on projects, you'll practice and refine your abilities, experimenting with realism, abstraction, and surrealism. Studying works of renowned artists will inspire your own artistic voice, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and self-expression. The class culminates in a portfolio showcasing your growth and progress as an artist, making it an exciting journey of discovery and artistic expression.
Painting 1
Course Number: 6015
Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12
Semesters: 1
Credits: .5Prerequisite: Art Fundamentals or Drawing 1 is recommended, but not required.
Painting is a semester-long visual art course where students will explore and experience a variety of painting techniques, media, and historical approaches to art. Painting is a problem-solving course utilizing the principles of design in both realistic and abstract projects.
Graphic Design 1
Course Number: 6009
Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12
Semesters: 1
Credits: .5Students will have the opportunity to work on challenging, real-world projects and assignments typical of the graphic design industry. Magazine design, advertising, typography, page layout, and the use of space will be covered. Emphasis will be on visual communication and presentation, color theory, and editing.
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Spanish 1
Course Numbers: 6501, 6502
Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12
Semesters: 2
Credits: 1This course is taught using comprehensible input. Input is the primary focus. Students will acquire the language by listening and reading to support their eventual output of writing and speaking. This course will be taught using TPRS (Teaching Proficiency through Reading and Storytelling). Students will read at least one short novel in Spanish. We will use the SOMOS curriculum, aligned with ACTFL standards, to develop interpretive, interpersonal, presentational, and cultural proficiency.
Spanish 2
Course Numbers: 6503, 6504
Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12
Semesters: 2
Credits: 1Prerequisite: Spanish 1
This course is taught using comprehensible input. Input is the primary focus. Students will acquire the language by listening and reading to support their eventual output of writing and speaking. This course will be taught using TPRS (Teaching Proficiency through Reading and Storytelling). Students will read one to two short novels in Spanish. We will use the SOMOS curriculum, aligned with ACTFL standards, to develop interpretive, interpersonal, presentational, and cultural proficiency. Students will build on skills and language acquired in Spanish 1.
American Sign Language 1
Course Numbers: 6513, 6514
Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12
Semesters: 2
Credits: 1This semester's course is designed to introduce students to the background of ASL, basic vocabulary, and elements of Deaf culture. You will learn and use basic ASL vocabulary to communicate in common scenarios.
American Sign Language 2
Course Numbers: 6515, 6516
Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12
Semesters: 2
Credits: 1This course is designed for students who wish to enhance proficiency in ASL, and stresses continued development of basic conversational skills through thematic units with an emphasis on vocabulary and expressive skills. You will develop receptive and expressive abilities that allow you to recognize and demonstrate more sophisticated grammatical features of ASL. You will also increase your fluency and accuracy in fingerspelling and numbers. You will develop communication skills as you dive into the Deaf World and American Deaf culture and history.
Minnesota Bilingual Seals Program
Grades: 10
Students who believe they have attained proficiency in another language besides English may take the Bilingual Seals Proficiency Exam in the Spring of each year. Successful completion of this exam fulfills all graduation requirement standards for a World Language. Students interested in learning more about this opportunity should contact their school counselor.
Schedule Changes
Students who wish to request a schedule change must complete the Schedule Change Request Form or contact their school counselor. All requests are reviewed on an individual basis.
Please note that schedule changes are not made to accommodate teacher, class period, or lunch preferences, or to accommodate the desire to be with a friend. Schedule changes are not permitted after the first week of the semester.
Please note that submitting a request does not guarantee a schedule change.
Credit Recovery
Students who are not currently on track to graduate may be eligible for credit recovery courses. These courses provide an opportunity for students to earn credit and make progress toward graduation. If you have questions about credit recovery or your graduation status, please speak with your school counselor.
