High School Credit Courses

Principles of Information Technology A/B

Grades: 7 & 8
Prerequisite: Students must have achieved either a "Meets" or "Masters" level on the most recent Math STAAR assessment. This prerequisite ensures that students possess the necessary mathematical skills and logical thinking abilities essential for success in the course.
This course is designed to introduce students to the fundamental principles of information technology (PIT) and its applications in the modern world. Students will learn about computer hardware and software, as well as basic programming concepts. The course will cover topics such as computer networking, cybersecurity, data analysis, and web design. Through hands-on projects, students will learn how to use industry-standard software, programming languages, and tools to solve real-world problems. They will develop skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration, as well as an understanding of the ethical and social implications of technology. By the end of the course, students will be equipped with the foundational knowledge and skills necessary for further study in computer science and IT-related fields.

Fundamentals of Computer Science A/B

Grade: 8 only
Prerequisite: Principles of Information Technology. Students must have achieved either a "Meets" or "Masters" level on the 7th-grade Math STAAR assessment.
This course introduces students to three major areas of the computer science discipline: theory and algorithms, hardware systems, and software systems.

Theater I A/B

Grades: 8 Only
Prerequisite: Students must have successfully completed both 6th and 7th grade theater and be approved by the theater director.

In this course, students will explore the world of theater arts, including fundamental acting techniques, stagecraft, script analysis, and theater history. The course provides hands-on experience in set design, lighting, sound, and costumes, as well as performance projects such as monologues, scenes, and one-act plays. By the end of the course, students will have developed confidence, creativity, and a solid foundation in theater, preparing them for advanced studies.

Art I A/B

Grades: 8 Only
Prerequisite: Students must have successfully completed both 6th and 7th grade art, submit a portfolio, and be approved by the art directors.

This course introduces the elements and principles of design through exploration of a broad range of media. Activities emphasize skills and techniques in areas such as drawing, painting, graphics, fibers, ceramics, art history, and three-dimensional design.

Integrated Physics and Chemistry A/B

Grades: 8 Only
Prerequisite: Placement Test & HISD Advanced Science
In this course, students will explore fundamental concepts of physics and chemistry, including matter, energy, motion, forces, atoms, and molecules. Through hands-on experiments, demonstrations, and simulations, students will learn about the interactions between matter and energy and how they shape the world around us. They will develop an understanding of scientific inquiry, laboratory safety, and scientific measurement. The course will also cover topics such as the periodic table, chemical reactions, and electricity. By the end of the course, students will have developed critical thinking skills, scientific literacy, and an appreciation for the natural world and the principles that govern it.

Geometry I Pre-AP A/B

Grade: 8
Prerequisite: Algebra 1
This course introduces students to the foundational concepts of geometry, including points, lines, angles, shapes, and their properties. Students will explore topics such as congruence, similarity, transformations, the Pythagorean theorem, and coordinate geometry. Emphasis will be placed on problem-solving, logical reasoning, proofs, and real-world applications. This course prepares students for higher-level math by building critical thinking and analytical skills.

Algebra I Pre-AP A/B

Grade: 7-8
Prerequisite: Placement Exam & approved score on the HISD Algebra Qualification Matrix.
Algebra 1 focuses on developing students' understanding of algebraic concepts and their applications. Students will explore expressions, equations, inequalities, functions, linear relationships, quadratic equations, and systems of equations. Emphasis will be placed on problem-solving strategies, graphing, and using algebraic reasoning to solve real-world problems. Through engaging lessons and collaborative activities, students will build a solid foundation for advanced math courses and gain confidence in using algebraic methods. This course is designed to prepare students for success in future mathematical studies.

Journalism I A/B

Grade: 8
Prerequisite: Journalism 6Y / Journalism 7Y

Building on the foundation of Intro to Journalism, this high school credit course deepens students' skills in reporting, writing, and multimedia storytelling. Students write across various formats including news, features, editorials, and reviews. Throughout the process, they conduct interviews, verify sources, and incorporate research. These journalistic practices help students develop polished, publishable articles. They refine their visual storytelling by taking on complex video production work that involves creating multi-segment news broadcasts through scripting, filming, interviewing, and editing. These projects demand deeper reporting and often incorporate investigative journalism, giving students the opportunity to tell more ambitious, impactful stories. Students explore the history of American journalism, examine press law and ethics, and analyze how emerging technologies are reshaping media consumption. This course builds communication, critical thinking, and leadership skills by placing students in active reporting roles that serve the school community. Published work appears on our student news website, pinoakpress.com, providing students a real-world platform to share their journalism.

Latin I A/B, Latin II A/B, Spanish I A/B, French I A/B, ChineseI A/B, Italian I A/B, & German I A/B

Grade: 8 Only
Prerequisite: Language 7Y
To enroll in 8th grade, students must have successfully completed the 7th-grade language course. If they have, they will automatically be enrolled in the course of the same language. The course will focus on further developing students' language skills, including speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Additionally, cultural elements related to the language studied will be explored.