Practical Arts Electives

Grades 8-9  | Credits: 2.5 | Semester Course

Are you interested in a fun, practical, hands-on course dealing with the technologies found in our world today?  This course is designed to appeal to both males and females and will allow them to design and create solutions to various problems. This course will introduce students to the process of critical thinking as it relates to the technologies of today and will emphasize the application of knowledge, tools, and skills to solve practical problems. Students will be responsible for properly using the design loop to solve problems they encounter and, through this process, they will have a better understanding of how materials, manufacturing, design, electronic communications, robotics, and transportation systems take their place in our world. A strong emphasis will be placed on group dynamics and cooperation in problem-solving and will require the students to critically evaluate a problem they might find in today’s society and, by working with each other, find an acceptable solution.

Grades 8-9 | Credits: 2.5 | Prerequisite: STEM I (must earn a B in STEM I)

This course is designed to extend each student's ability to problem-solve, and each unit of study explores current advancements in STEM-related fields. Students will be responsible for using the design loop to solve problems they encounter; and through this process, they will have the ability to critically evaluate a problem they might find in today’s society and by working with others, find an acceptable solution.  We are a project-based classroom and students must be comfortable with working independently and in groups to complete in-class activities and projects.

Grades 8-9 | Credits: 2.5 | Semester Course

Fundamentals of Engineering is the introductory course in our series of engineering courses. This course is an introduction to the basics of graphic language.  Communicating through technical drawings and sketches generated on the computer (CAD) are essential to many careers in business and industry. The areas of study covered include the use of freehand, mechanical, and computerized (CAD) instruments in developing drawings. Through the use of TLA's (Technology Learning Activities), the students will learn problem-solving and design techniques. The TLA’s will include the use of the design loop, computers, and hands-on work.

Grades 8-9 | Credits: 2.5 | Semester Course | Prerequisite: Fundamentals of Engineering (This prerequisite only applies to CJHS students)

Through the use of Technology Learning Activities (TLA’s), the students will learn problem-solving and design techniques. The problems will include the use of the design loop, computers, and hands-on activities where students will identify a problem, produce a solution, and test the solution.  Students will be given the opportunity to develop and construct a project in collaboration with electrical engineering students.  This course is an introduction to the basics of graphic language. Communicating through drawings and sketches generated on the computer is essential to many careers in business and industry. The areas of study covered include freehand, mechanical, and computerized instruments in developing drawings. One, two, and three-view drawings are used to explain designs graphically. This course is also offered at EBHS (1302).

Grades 8-9 | Credits: 2.5 | Semester Course

At some point in your life, you will own your own condo, apartment, or home. The skills you will learn from this course will provide you with the basics you will need to make common repairs or alterations to make it more comfortable.  These skills may also help save you money normally spent on outside contractors.  This course provides an overview of the various systems, materials, tools, and equipment used in manufacturing wood products found in the common home. Students have the opportunity to construct finely crafted projects that they are proud to display.  Instruction includes information about the new technologies being used in the design, construction, and assembly of their projects as well as how to read and work from blueprints, estimate costs, utilize hand and power tools, and various wood finishes.

Grades 8-9 | Credits: 2.5

This course provides hands-on experience in real-world applications in the communications field. Students will learn about the ways communication has changed over the years and they will complete projects in the areas of technical writing, graphic communication, desktop publishing, and technical design.  Students will work in a collaborative setting to create a new company, design a logo, business card, and letterhead, and create advertisements as well as an advertising campaign. In addition to the company project, students will be designing their own t-shirts, vinyl decals, and notepads.  Through various projects, students will use computer applications including Illustrator and in Design.

Grade 7/8 Required | Credits: 2.5

As engaged digital learners, students are able to acquire and apply content knowledge and skills through active exploration, interaction, and collaboration with others across the globe, challenging them to design the future.  The Computer Literacy course, required for all eighth-grade students, provides hands-on laboratory experience through the use of modern operating systems and software applications.

Grades 8-9 | Credits: 2.5

This course offers instruction in keyboarding for college (great for producing research papers), general or personal use and provides the foundation for future use of computers.   Areas of instruction include mastery of the keyboard, knowledge of storage devices, correct keyboarding techniques, the arrangement of business and personal letters, outlining, tables, and setting up records.

Grades 8-9  | Credits: 2.5

Are you interested in a fun, practical, hands-on course dealing with the technologies found in our world today?  This course is designed to appeal to both males and females and will allow them to design and create solutions to various problems. This course will introduce students to the process of critical thinking as it relates to the technologies of today and will emphasize the application of knowledge, tools, and skills to solve practical problems. Students will be responsible for properly using the design loop to solve problems they encounter and, through this process, they will have a better understanding of how materials, manufacturing, design, electronic communications, robotics, and transportation systems take their place in our world. A strong emphasis will be placed on group dynamics and cooperation in problem-solving and will require the students to critically evaluate a problem they might find in today’s society and, by working with each other, find an acceptable solution.

Grades 8-9 | Credits: 2.5 | Prerequisite:  STEM I (must earn a B or better in STEM I)

This course is designed to extend each student's ability to problem-solve, and each unit of study explores current advancements in STEM-related fields. Students will be responsible for using the design loop to solve problems they encounter; and through this process, they will have the ability to critically evaluate a problem they might find in today’s society and by working with others, find an acceptable solution.  We are a project-based classroom and students must be comfortable with working independently and in groups to complete in-class activities and projects.

Grades 8-9 | Credits: 2.5

Fundamentals of Engineering is the introductory course in our series of engineering courses.  This course is an introduction to the basics of graphic language.  Communicating through technical drawings and sketches generated on the computer (CAD) is essential to many careers in business and industry.  The areas of study covered include the use of freehand, mechanical, and computerized (CAD) instruments in developing drawings.  Through the use of TLA's (Technology Learning Activities), the students will learn problem-solving and design techniques. The TLA’s will include the use of the design loop, computers, and hands-on work.

Grades 8-9 |Credits: 2.5 | Prerequisite: Fundamentals of Engineering (This prerequisite only applies to CJHS students)

Through the use of Technology Learning Activities (TLA’s), the students will learn problem-solving and design techniques.  The problems will include the use of the design loop, computers, and hands-on activities where students will identify a problem, produce a solution, and test the solution.    Students will be given the opportunity to develop and construct a project in collaboration with electrical engineering students.  This course is an introduction to the basics of graphic language.  Communicating through drawings and sketches generated on the computer is essential to many careers in business and industry. The areas of study covered include freehand, mechanical, and computerized instruments in developing drawings.  One, two, and three-view drawings are used to explain designs graphically. This course is also offered at EBHS (1302).

Grades 8-9 | Credits: 2.5

At some point in your life, you will own your own condo, apartment, or home. The skills you will learn from this course will provide you with the basics you will need to make common repairs or alterations to make it more comfortable.  These skills may also help save you money normally spent on outside contractors.  This course provides an overview of the various systems, materials, tools, and equipment used in manufacturing wood products found in the common home. Students have the opportunity to construct finely crafted projects that they are proud to display.  Instruction includes information about the new technologies being used in the design, construction, and assembly of their projects as well as how to read and work from blueprints, estimate costs, utilize hand and power tools, and various wood finishes.

Grades 8-9 | Credits: 2.5 | Semester Course

This course provides hands-on experience in real-world applications in the communications field. Students will learn about the ways communication has changed over the years and they will complete projects in the areas of technical writing, graphic communication, desktop publishing, and technical design. Students will work in a collaborative setting to create a new company, design a logo, business card, and letterhead, and create advertisements as well as an advertising campaign. In addition to the company project, students will be designing their own t-shirts, vinyl decals, and notepads.  Through various projects, students will use computer applications including Illustrator and in Design.

Grade 9 | Credits: 2.5 | Semester Course

Introduction to Business is a half-year course designed to introduce the student to the environment of business today. Students will examine the world of business and how it can and does affect their lives. Ethical and social responsibility issues will be discussed, as well as the increasing importance of international (global) business. The course is designed to be an introduction to the business electives offered at the high school level. It incorporates marketing, accounting, economics, business ownership/entrepreneurship, management/organization, human resources, finance, investment, and legal aspects of the business environment. This course is also offered at EBHS (1401).

Grade 9 | Credits: 2.5 | Semester Course | Graduation requirement; This course is offered as an online course – See your counselor for details.

Every student needs to master their finances now, and for the rest of their lives. Our Financial Literacy course addresses the need for all students to know how to earn, save, and manage their money. Through engaging, student-centered activities and projects that require 21st-century skills, our students will master career exploration, money management, credit, saving and investing skills. They will also dive into the world of informed purchasing, civic financial responsibility and risk management.

Our Online Financial Literacy course was developed by East Brunswick Teachers and is taught by East Brunswick Teachers. The course covers the same core concepts as the traditional class and the class is taught exclusively online. This class is perfect for highly motivated students who like to work independently and possess strong time management and written communication skills. The assignments and projects are continuously being updated to enhance the online environment. Students enrolled in Online Financial Literacy will be able to take an additional 2.5 credit during the year. This course is also available at EBHS (1412).

Grade 9 | Credits: 2.5 | Semester Course

The field of accounting is for individuals looking for an exciting career; one that offers high earning potential, travel throughout the USA and abroad, and the opportunity to advance in many careers. Accounting I will introduce students to the accounting cycle, which will serve as a sound background for employment in both the private sector and government entities, owning your own business, and preparation for studying business/commerce courses at college and ultimately in graduate school. Students will be introduced to the computerized accounting cycle stressing general ledger skills needed for producing financial statements for both a single proprietorship and a partnership. This course is also available at EBHS (1404).

Grades 8-9 | Credits: 2.5 | Semester Course

This course offers instruction in keyboarding for college (great for producing research papers), general or personal use and provides the foundation for future use of computers.   Areas of instruction include mastery of the keyboard, knowledge of storage devices, correct keyboarding techniques, the arrangement of business and personal letters, outlining, tables, and setting up records.

Grade 9 | Credits: 2.5 | Semester Course | Prerequisite: Passed Algebra 1

This is a Java programming intensive course. The Introduction to Computer Science course is a one-semester, introductory programming course and lays the foundation for future work in computer science.  Students taking the course are required to have taken a prerequisite math course of at least Algebra I A. The course focuses on using a programming language to solve problems. Students will be introduced to an object-oriented programming language. They will design and develop programs to be run and tested on the computer. The course introduces students to interactive input and output methods, file input and output, control structures for selection and iteration, assignment statements, math operators. Students are also introduced to Java data types including basic primitive types (int, long, double, char, Boolean) as well as standard classes (string, math, etc.). Students are required to take tests and write between 30 and 50 independent programming assignments in the semester. This course is also available at EBHS (1450).