Southgate Adult and Community Education
Winter 2008  COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

 ADULT BASIC EDUCATION

ABE/ESL READING LAB - This class offers individualized learning designed to provide rapid improvement for those with little or no reading skills. Begin with basic reading strategies utilizing phonics, syllable breaking, and sight words.  Move to reading sentences and paragraphs, spelling and pronunciation, sentence writing and paragraph development.  Students will benefit from one-on-one reading practice with a teacher and tutors.  (1 elective credit)

FUNDAMENTAL MATH - This class is recommended for students who have difficulty with basic math concepts: whole numbers, decimals or fractions.   Elective credit will be awarded; during the semester where fractions are mastered, math credit will be awarded.  (½ elective credit)

PRE-GED PREP  – If you are especially weak in reading, writing, and/or math, you may not be ready to take the GED Prep class.  In the Pre-GED class, instruction will be delivered at a slower pace and will help you strengthen your skills.  Topics covered:  math, language arts, the essay, and critical thinking and problem solving skills.  When you complete the Pre-GED class, you may enroll in the GED Prep class free.  (½ elective credit)

READING STRATEGIES I – This class is for those having difficulty reading basic material.  A variety of instruction is used to help you learn to read, write, and spell through letter sounds and word families.  A variety of strategies are used to improve comprehension of fiction and non-fiction selections.  (½ elective credit)

READING STRATEGIES II – This class teaches techniques to improve reading comprehension using fiction and non-fiction selections.  The focus is on improving word recognition, fluency, and comprehension.  Vocabulary development and paragraph writing are included.  The class is designed for students who have intermediate reading and writing skills.  (½ elective credit)

ENGLISH

BIOGRAPHY (B) - Meet a different celebrity each week!  Using modern media, meet Joe Louis, Bonnie and Clyde, Beethoven, or a local celebrity......you never know who may appear!  Explore your own heritage and write your own autobiography.  (½ English credit)

BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS – This course examines how business corporations operate and correspond via memos, emails, faxes, business proposals and meetings.  Students will become familiar with business forms used in shipping, receiving, billing, inventory and financial spreadsheets.  Also, entrepreneurs of tomorrow will understand insurance, consumer credit, banking services, legal contracts and taxpayer responsibilities.  (½ English credit)

COMPETENCY IN ENGLISH (B) - This intermediate level American literature course will include elements of reading, writing, listening and speaking.  Critical analysis and ideas will be emphasized.  The writing will be related to the reading selections but should include descriptive, persuasive, informative and narrative composition.  An effective 3-paragraph essay will be the terminal goal.  Grammar study will include phrases and clauses and advanced sentence structure.  One oral presentation will be included each semester.  (½ English credit)

CREATIVE WRITING – Release your creative urges!  Open up to the creative world of similes, metaphors, and poetry.  Learn how to make your writing more colorful and interesting.  Create a portfolio that includes an autobiography, a short story, and a variety of poems.  (½ English credit)

ENGLISH FOR TODAY’S JOBS - This course is designed to help students choose a career and prepare themselves for obtaining a job.  The course will include the opportunity to job shadow, prepare a portfolio, do career assessments, prepare a personal resume, and learn job search and interviewing techniques. (½ English credit)

FICTION & FANTASY (B) - This class will read several short stories and novels in the fiction/fantasy genre such as The Hobbit, Watership Down, Ender’s Game and The Giver.  (½ English credit)

INTRODUCTION TO ENGLISH (B) - This introductory level course will include elements of reading, writing, listening and speaking.  The writing process will include a review of basic grammar, sentence strategies and effective paragraph writing – expository, descriptive and technical.  The multi-cultural, diverse literature will include such genres as short story, novel, poetry and non-fiction.  Students will develop a mastery of literary terms.  Reading and study skills will include vocabulary development and reading comprehension.  One oral presentation will be included each semester.  (½ English credit)

JOURNALISM – The Asher school newspaper is back!  This class is designed to familiarize you with the language, structure and research techniques found in newspaper writing.  You will also learn the ethics and responsibilities associated with journalistic writing.  As part of a collaborative team, you will be responsible for independently researching topics of interest or current events in the context of investigative reporting in order to publish our monthly newspaper, The Spill.  (½ English credit)

LITERARY TRAVELS –  “Travel” the world as you read literature of your destinations.  (¼ English credit)

LITERATURE THROUGH VIDEO - Explore various types of literature through a video approach.  Classical literature as well as modern novels will be read and viewed, then compared through discussion and critical review.  (¼ English credit)

MULTI-MEDIA WRITING – Enhance your writing skills through the use of multi-media.  Through art, film, photography, and literature this class will explore the purpose of writing and how its purpose is affected by the choice of media.  This class will culminate in a final project.  (½ English credit)

POETRY IN MOTION – Read a little poetry, write a little poetry, and listen to some music and see what those lyrics might really mean!  Learn about poetic devices and work with the instructor one-on-one to improve the quality of your poetry.  You may publish in the SACE literary magazine.  (¼ English credit)

PROFICIENCY IN ENGLISH (B) - This intermediate level British literature course will include elements of reading, writing, listening and speaking.  First semester students will cover Beowulf through 18^th century literature;  second semester students will cover literature from the 19^th century to the present and world literature.  An effective five-paragraph essay will be the culminating writing project.  One oral presentation will be included each semester.  (½ English credit)

READING STRATEGIES III – This reading class designed to continue skill improvement for those who have some difficulty understanding and remembering what they read.  The emphasis is on learning skills to aide in comprehension and improving vocabulary and writing skills.  The overall aim of this class is to support students in their high school reading.  (½ English credit)

WRITING LAB – This is a writing intensive class designed to familiarize you with different genres of composition.  You will learn the basic structure and format of at least four genres.  Use your experience and knowledge to create pieces of writing that are fun, creative, and inspirational.  This course is designed to guide you step-by-step through the writing process, and also help you find innovative ways to express new ideas.   (½ English credit)

ESL / ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE

This program is for adults whose primary language is not English.  All levels teach language skills, listening, speaking, reading, and writing in the context of real-life survival skills, as follows:

ESL BEGINNING - In a comfortable and encouraging atmosphere, adults whose primary language is not English will learn the basic patterns of written and spoken English language.

ESL CONVERSATIONAL GRAMMAR – Students will learn grammar forms and meaning in a variety of contexts and have conversation on many different subjects to use grammar.

ESL READING – Students taking this course will learn how to identify main ideas and use context clues to define meanings in paragraphs and short writings.

ESL SPEAKING/LISTENING – Students will learn how to express needs, wants, and desires using standard spoken English.  Students will learn how to vary sentence structure, use of punctuation, and standard grammar and spelling.

ESL VOCABULARY – Students will learn words and phrases they are likely to encounter, then have the opportunity to practice these words in spoken and written scenarios.

ESL WRITING – Students will learn how to write simple to complex forms of sentences with an emphasis on the use of standard English written grammar, punctuation, and spelling. 

SOCIAL STUDIES

AMERICAN HISTORY I – This course will cover American history from the rise of modern industry (1877) to end of the Great Depression.  (½ American history credit)

AMERICAN HISTORY II – This course will cover American history from the Second World War to the present.  (½ American history credit)

CIVICS/SOCIAL STUDIES – Students will study the structures of our government:  basic foundations of U.S. Government, the Congress, Presidency, the Courts, the U.S. Constitution, civil liberties, rights, local government, diversity in America, and global issues.  (½ social studies credit)

CULTURAL HERITAGE –  In this class you will learn about the many culture groups living in the United States and Michigan.  We will explore food, religion, music, holiday traditions and a lot more. Be ready to learn about your ancestors!  (½ social studies credit)

CURRENT EVENTS – Students will research current events using a variety of media, like newspapers, magazines, television news, and the Internet.  There will be weekly topics to research and discuss, as well as one area to be studied in depth for the semester.  This course will give students an understanding of the cultures, religions, customs, geography, and political situations of the news-making people and regions of the world.  Class will include informal discussion and debate.  (½ social studies credit)

ECONOMICS – Money makes the world go around – but not all by itself.  We use money to buy and sell, to save and borrow.  Money defines us and influences others, and it’s all controlled by economic systems designed to make things work.  Learn how those economic systems work, how you can work the system, and how you can change the system.  (½ social studies credit)

GOVERNMENT  - Be an informed voter! Learn about the government from the Federal government in Washington, D.C., down to city-hall politics.  (½ government credit)

GREAT LAKES GEOGRAPHY – What do you know about the Great Lakes?  Explore the diverse physical features of the Great Lakes and the surrounding regions.  Learn about the different people and places that share our lake system. (½ social studies credit)

MICHIGAN HISTORY - Learn about our state!  Explore the history and culture of local communities as well as the rest of the state.  (½ social studies credit)

PSYCHOLOGY AND YOU – Understand how stress and emotions, color and advertising, fears and phobias, and peer and social pressure profoundly affect our lives.  (½ social studies credit)

SEE THE USA! – Take a tour of the USA.  Visit each of the 50 states and learn fun facts, trivia, food specialties, and historical information.  (½ social studies credit)

SOCIOLOGY – Learn why groups are created and how they work.  Understand the secrets behind marriage and families, the rules of the workplace, and the dynamics of groups and mobs.  (½ social studies credit)

UNSOLVED MYSTERIES –  Unravel the mysteries of civilizations and contemporary culture.  (¼  social studies credit)

VIDEO PROFILES IN HISTORY –  Books are excellent sources of information, but videos bring the words to life.  Explore the lives and challenges of some of history’s greatest leaders.  (½  social studies credit)

WORLD GEOGRAPHY (B) – A look at the global and economic environment, culture, climate, diversity, terrain, government and political boundaries of Africa, Europe, Latin America and Canada.  (½  social studies credit)

WORLD HISTORY (B) – Walk through the creation and struggles of modern societies….from Europe to the U.S. revolutions, World War I, World War II, and Vietnam.  (½ social studies credit)

G.E.D.

GED PREP - Prepare for the GED Test by reviewing the topics covered on the test:  math, social studies, language arts, reading, science, literature and the arts, and the essay.  Learn to use the calculator for the math test.  GED Practice Tests will be given, and students will gain confidence in test taking.  (½ elective credit)

PRE-GED PREP  – If you are especially weak in reading, writing, and/or math, you may not be ready to take the GED Prep class.  In the Pre-GED class, instruction will be delivered at a slower pace and will help you strengthen your skills.  Topics covered:  math, language arts, the essay, and critical thinking and problem solving skills.  When you complete the Pre-GED class, you may enroll in the GED Prep class free.  (½ elective credit)

MATH

COMPUTER ACTIVITIES IN MATH – A fun computer class that helps increase your math skills.  Students will create shapes and drawings using Geo Sketchpad software.  Geo Sketchpad enables students to build and measure shapes in an interesting and fun way.  (¼ math credit)

MATH 1A – To enter this class, a student must have some understanding of fractions but does not have to be proficient at fractions.  This class is a blend of traditional math topics to promote skill development and math application topics to enhance math understanding.  Students will study whole numbers and integers, decimals, rational numbers, and percents.  (½ math credit)

MATH 1B – This class is a blend of traditional math topics to promote skill development and math application topics to enhance math understanding.  Class includes a quick review of basic tools.  Students will study statistics and measurement, ratio and proportion, probability, introduction to algebra, and introduction to geometry.  (½ math credit)

MATH 2A – Study basic mathematical relationships:  operations with integers, simplification of algebraic expressions, solving equations, and graphing equations.  Use these skills as a powerful tool for mathematical modeling and solving of real-world problems.  (½ math credit)

MATH 2B – Review Math 2A topics.  Continue with systems of equations, linear inequalities, quadratic equations, and polynomials.  Prerequisite is Math 2A.  Use these skills as a powerful tool for mathematical modeling and solving of real-world problems.  (½ math credit)

MATH/SCIENCE INTEGRATION – This course seamlessly integrates math and science together to create a rich learning environment.  Students will complete various hands-on activities and will also be part of the curriculum development experience.  Students should be proficient at decimal and fraction operations.  (½ math or science credit)

SCIENCE

BIOLOGY (B) – What makes us alive? Why are we different from a rock?  Study the basis of life, including ecosystems, biomes, and classification systems.  Replaces Life Science.  (½ science credit)

GENERAL SCIENCE (B) – This class is an introduction to scientific thinking with a focus on the Earth’s systems and physics.  (½ science credit)

ZOOLOGY – An overview of the invertebrate and vertebrate animals, including their structure and function.  Dissection required.  (½  science credit)

MATH/SCIENCE INTEGRATION – This course seamlessly integrates math and science together to create a rich learning environment.  Students will complete various hands-on activities and will also be part of the curriculum development experience.  Students should be proficient at decimal and fraction operations.  (½ math or science credit)

TECHNOLOGY

COMPUTERS EXPLORATION – This multi-level course is designed for students new to the computer and for students who have had an introduction to Microsoft Office applications and the Internet in middle school or high school.  Students will enhance their computer skills by learning how Word, Publisher, and HTML can be used for simple Web creation.  (½ technology credit)

COMPUTERS FOR ROOKIES - This beginning course is designed for the person who wants to prepare for using computers in the workplace or home.  Learn computer concepts and terminology, Windows environment, file management, and experience various application programs.  No prerequisite but some typing skill is a plus.  (½ technology credit)

DESKTOP PUBLISHING – Become a desktop publishing guru by using Microsoft Publisher and other software applications.  Students learn how to create publication documents such as banners, greeting cards, newsletter, business cards, letterhead, and many more.  Prerequisite:  Office Applications and Computers for Rookies.  (½ technology credit)

LIVING ONLINE - Understand the concepts of networks and the Internet, electronic mail, searching the web, the impact of computing and the Internet on society.  Will prepare the student for the Living Online Module of IC3.   (½ technology credit)

MICROSOFT OFFICE SPECIALIST LAB – Student can choose any or all of these intermediate level classes:  Word I & II, Excel I & II, or Access I & II.  Prerequisite: Office Applications class in the application of choice (or equivalent work experience) and keyboarding 30 wpm.  Completion of this class may lead to Microsoft Office Specialist Certification.  Class may be taken for a maximum of six semesters.  (½ technology credit)

OFFICE APPLICATIONS – This basic applications class is the perfect follow-up to Computers for Rookies.  Students will learn word processing skills, spreadsheet functions, and presentation software.  This course gives hands-on training and the background needed to enter Microsoft Office Specialist Lab.  Prerequisite: 20 wpm keyboarding skill and Computers Exploration or Computers for Rookies. (½ technology credit)

WORKING WITH THE WEB – This class is designed to give the student the opportunity to learn how to acquire information from the World Wide Web and apply it to real world situations.  Develop research and problem solving skills, as well as become a better consumer of data.    (¼ technology credit)

VOCATIONAL

AUTO ALIGNMENT AND SUSPENSION - Learn the fundamentals of the suspension system, including replacement and repair of springs, shocks, and related suspension parts.  Learn the fundamentals of steering system and how to diagnose alignment and steering problems.  Replace ball joints, idler arms, tie rods, and other steering components.  At the end of the course the student will do a front-end alignment.  (½ elective credit)

AUTO ELECTRIC - BASIC – This class will complement the Auto Tune-Up class.  Cover the battery, charging system, starting system, and accessories.  Learn how to use and read a wiring diagram to trace and test various circuits in a car.  Learn how to use multi meters to measure volts, amps, and resistance.  Use Ohm’s Law and understand what happens in a series and parallel circuit.  At course completion, students should be able to diagnose and repair various electrical systems in a car.  (½ elective credit)

CAREERS FOR TODAY – This course offers you a hands-on experience through numerous career pathways.  We will discuss projected outlooks for up to ten years.  You will learn how to write a resume, how to prepare for an interview, and the correct steps to take once the interview is over.  This class will include teacher instruction, guest speakers, and field trips.  (½ elective credit)

HEALTH CARE PROVIDER I - Prepare yourself for an entry-level position with a home health agency, a hospital, or community health agency.  Basic nursing care is taught in an academic and clinical environment by health care professionals in affiliation with a local hospital.   Participate in clinical rotations at a nursing home and hospital.  Learn basic anatomy and terminology, infection control, monitoring vital signs, nutrition, body mechanics, long-term care, death/dying preparation, home care equipment, CPR, phlebotomy, and health assistance in home care.  Join the fastest growing occupation in Michigan.  Students must wear hospital scrubs to class.  Tuition fee for all students:  $295.  Tuition payment plan is available.

HEALTH CARE PROVIDER II – This class is available to students who have completed Home Health Care Provider I or by instructor approval.  Students will participate in clinical rotations at a local hospital.  Students must wear hospital scrubs to class.  Tuition fee for all students:  $295.  Tuition payment plan is available.

KEYBOARDING LAB – Choose your skill level.  Windows management skills are part of this course.  Emphasis is placed on increasing speed and accuracy for the advanced classes.  In Keyboarding II and III, students are expected to be able to type without looking at/for the keys.  (½ elective credit)

KEYBOARDING I – Do you know the keyboard?  Can you type without looking at the keyboard?  If you answer “no” to one or both questions, this class is for you.  Learn the keyboard and master touch typing. 

KEYBOARDING II – Work on letters, manuscripts, memos, reports, etc.  Work on increasing speed and accuracy.

KEYBOARDING III - Increase knowledge of business forms and continue to build keyboarding speed and accuracy.

MARKETING - Explore the role of marketing and its affect on advertising, retailing and business, and how it relates to our everyday lives.  (½ elective credit)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY - Are you interested in becoming part of a health care team?  As you prepare to enter the health care field, you will need to learn its language and become familiar with anatomy and physiology as it relates to health and disease.  This class is a must for many health care and related occupations:  receptionist for a doctor’s or dentist’s office, hospital and medical secretaries, clerks, medical insurance processors, nurse assistants, and many other occupations.  Join our class and have fun learning.  Tuition fee for all students:  $95.

SMALL BUSINESS MANAGEMENT – This class will introduce students to the concepts of entrepreneurship, types of ownership, completion of a business plan, financing, and research for a successful business.  (½ elective credit)

ELECTIVES

ADVENTURE ZONE - A different “adventure” every week will be presented to you, from a DIA experience to the Science Center, or a nature walk, or an Easter egg hunt. You never know what bold, new adventure will be in store for you next.  Only for those with an “adventurous” nature!  There is a $10 Activity Fee, payable within the first two weeks of classes. (½ elective credit)

CONSPIRACY THEORIES – There are many conspiracy theories, ancient to modern.; examples: Nostradamus, Big Foot, Bermuda Triangle, Area 51, Tupac and Biggie deaths, John Madden curse, etc.  Class will include discussion, debate, and written statements and summaries.  (¼ elective credit)

EMPOWERMENT ZONE  – Discuss issues of significance to women in an open-minded, supportive atmosphere.  Topics include physical and emotional health, financial independence, relationship issues, safety and self-defense, child-rearing, rights and responsibilities, and women’s place in the world.  (½ elective credit)

GOLF, FITNESS, & BOWLING – During the first eight weeks, students will be introduced to the basic rules of golf, various golf strokes, and golf etiquette.  During class time, students will be required to attend a driving range and various local golf courses.  For the second eight weeks, students will be introduced to personal fitness, nutrition, and bowling.    Classroom instruction, a written exam, and physical participation are required in all units.  There is $20 activity fee.  (½ elective credit)

GOLF – This course is dedicated to the study and practice of the game of golf.  PGA pros will provide some of the instruction to help each student golfer perfect his/her game.  Prerequisite:  Students must have passes Golf, Physical Fitness & Bowling or have instructor approval.  (¼ elective credit)

MONEY MATTERS - Learn about the practical side of money – how to invest it, how to save it, how to carefully spend it.  Learn to balance a checkbook, shop for groceries, and buy car insurance and many other practical aspects of living on your own.  (½ elective credit)

POWER ZONE – This class will offer decision-making and coping skills to aid students in everyday life and goal setting.  (¼ elective credit)

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT (A) & (B) –  A fun class where group activities are designed to help students better interact with others and assume responsibilities for their own lives.  Required class for Advantage Academy students.  (½ elective credit)

PHYSICAL EDUCATION – This course is designed to help the student to understand his/her physical self, to understand the value to team and individual sports, and to realize the need for and a way of maintaining a level of physical fitness throughout life.  Instruction will be given in a wide variety of activities so that the student will better understand strategy, scoring, and technique in individual and team sports.  (½ elective credit)

TRAVEL TO THE MEDITERRANEAN – The literature and culture of Spain, Italy, and Greece will be emphasized.  This course seeks to increase insights into the people, culture, and ideas of the Mediterranean region.  Projects will include reading, writing, class discussions, student presentations, and imaginative assignments.  (½ elective credit)