NETWORK CHARTER SCHOOL
Main Campus: 2550 Portland Street, Eugene, OR 97405
Satellite Sites: MECCA, 449 Willamette
Peace Village (in the Overpark Downtown)
Yurt in Alton Baker Park
Eugene, OR
(541) 344-1229 Fax (541) 344-5118
Course Catalog
Spring 2012
Remember that your academic needs receive top priority in final schedule approval. Course offerings, instructors, and credits may change or be cancelled without notice due to unforeseen circumstances. We do not guarantee your first choices, but do our best to respect your preferences in scheduling. Please note that some courses have fees.
Le Petit Gourmet Culinary Arts Program
Advanced Culinary*
Instructor: Dena Stewart Grades 9 - 12
In this course, the focus is on production. Students will learn how to work as a team to produce meals with multiple courses, ready to serve at the same time. Students may participate in the Culinary Competition at LCC, working with a chef from the community. NCS teams have won awards in this event, so great things are expected of you. This class will also work on further developing the cookie cart business. You will develop marketing strategies for expanding the business and improve your skills in business math. ADMISSION IS BY INSTRUCTOR APPROVAL ONLY.
This course may be taken one or two semesters.
Credits: 1.0 art Time offered: MWF am (Portland Street)
*There is a $90 per semester materials fee for culinary courses, to cover costs of foods that are part of the cooking skills curriculum but not part of the food service program.
Birth of a Nation/American Literature
Instructors: Josh Livie & Jesse Lawton Grades 7 - 12
Birth of a Nation will examine the people and events that contributed to the origins of our country. American Literature will read and analyze the literature of this period. Students will study these events through the different perspectives of the many peoples involved. Topics of study for the 2nd semester of this class will include the America's early years, westward expansion and Native Americans, and the Civil War.
Credits: .5 US History (Social Studies) and .5 LA (US lit) per semester
Time offered: MWF pm (Portland Street)
Cultures From Around the World
Instructor: Josh Livie Grades 7 - 12
In this class we will discover the cultures of three countries from around the world. We will study features of the history, politics, geography, and other unique cultural aspects of Greece, Iran, and a country chosen by the class. This class will go on field trips to restaurants to eat and watch cooking
demonstrations to explore the food of these diverse countries. This is not a cooking class.
Credits: .4 Social Studies and .4 Language Arts
Time offered: T/Th am (Portland Street)
*The $25 per semester fee for this course covers the costs of eating out.
Introductory/Intermediate Culinary Arts*
Instructor: Dena Stewart Grades 7 - 12
Students will learn how to prepare an assortment of tasty meals. They will also learn food and kitchen safety. This course is designed to give students the introductory knowledge to pursue further culinary study and get an entry level job in the culinary field. This class is a prerequisite for Advanced Culinary Arts.
This is a two-semester series: fall for Introduction and spring for Intermediate levels.
Credit: .8 Art per semester
Time offered: T/Th am (Portland Street)
*There is a $90 per semester materials fee for culinary courses, to cover costs of foods that are part of the cooking skills curriculum but not part of the food service program.
Journalism 1 & 2
Instructor: Jesse Lawton Grades 9 - 12
Through this course, students will develop their writing skills by exploring all angles of non-fiction, from news and entertainment to research articles and editorials. We will also be publishing the school’s newspaper and exploring the history of media and its role in society.
Credits .5 Language Arts and .5 Social Studies per semester
Time offered: MWF am (Portland Street)
It’s Only Rock N’ Roll
Instructors: Jesse Lawton Grades 9 - 12
The Rolling Stones said, “I know it’s only Rock N’ Roll but I like it.” In this course we will examine Rock N’ Roll all sorts of ways and figure out why we like it. Then, we will look at the history of a variety of different musical forms and the cultures from which they came. We will examine writings about or inspired by, music. We will study music itself to understand its language on multiple levels. Furthermore, we’ll learn how to play guitar. No prior experience is needed. Beginners and intermediate students are welcome to come learn how to express themselves on the acoustic guitar. (Guitars are provided.)
Credits: .3 Language Arts, .3 Social Studies & .2 Elective
Time offered: T/Th am (Portland Street)
Shakespeare’s World 1, 2, 3; Performance 1, 2, 3; & Backstage Basics
Instructor: Janet Steiger Carr Grades 7 - 12
The most important people in William Shakespeare’s amazing career were the actors he wrote for, and this course will explore the important relationship between a playwright and his fellow artists. The course is taught by professional actress, director and award winning playwright Janet Steiger Carr and will introduce, or reintroduce, students to the works of Shakespeare in a historically accurate environment. The content will include the basics of acting and backstage art, lots of improvisation, and all the technical components that will help demystify the poetry and prose of a man who was arguably the world’s greatest playwright and wordsmith. We will look at Greek Theatre, Roman Comedy and Italian Comedia del Arte, as they apply to the works of Shakespeare and specifically the work we will be performing. Using play production, writing and hands-on projects, the students will delve into the different aspects of Shakespeare’s life and times.We will study thehistorical forces that shaped his education, the political forces that created the theatre companies of his day. We will also explore the early texts that inspired Shakespeare in the creation of some of his most enduring storylines. We will be doing a very special NCS adaptation of the hilarious romantic comedy Love’s Labors Lost. We will present our production in the spring, on the Churchill Theatre stage, on a date TBA. If we work really hard this could be our best ever!
This is a theatre performance cours,e so students will audition for, rehearse, and perform in the play. All students will take some part, small or large, in the final performance; however, some students may play a mostly technical part.
Credits: .4 Language Arts and .4 Art Time offered: T/Th pm (Portland St)
Spanish (multi-level)
Instructor: Ryan Demarest Grades: 7 - 12
In this course, students will learn how to read, write, speak, and listen in Spanish. Activities will include lectures, written exercises, films, games, conversations, and field trips designed to promote learning at every level of proficiency. Credit by level will be awarded according to the results of individual assessments at the end of each quarter.
Credits: 1.0 Spanish I, II, III, or IV Time offered: MWF am (Portland St)
Current Events, Culture & You
Instructor: Ryan Demarest Grades 9 - 12
In this class we will examine important national and international current events and how they relate to regional culture and history. We will understand and discuss how these issues affect daily life on a local and global scale and learn about cultural aspects of regional news and events.
Credits: .8 Social Studies Time offered: T/Th pm (Portland Street)
Online Learning Lab
Instructor: Josh Livie Grades 10 - 12
In this course, selected students will use online courses to make up lost credits, pursue advanced studies (eg, calculus, AP Spanish), and/or prepare for a GED test. Students will be expected to engage in online studies for the whole class period; they may also work on courses outside of the school day, but attendance is required during the assigned time. Admission is by approval/permission of administration only.
Credits: Variable (students will be enrolled in two subject areas minimum)
Time offered: T/Th pm (Portland Street)
MECCA: Materials Exchange Center for Community Arts
449 Willamette Street
Art 1 & 2
Instructor: Perry Joseph Grades 7 - 12
This course will explore the elements of art and principles of design. The majority of class time will be spent doing hands on projects that will include a wide range of media. Beginning drawing, painting, collage, and printmaking techniques will be introduced, and we will create ceramic and paper mache sculptures. Students will also be introduced to graphic tools. Activities may include visiting artists and museum and gallery tours.
Credits: 1.0 Art per semester
Time offered: MWF pm (449 Willamette)
Graphic Art
Instructor: Perry Joseph Grades 7 - 12
Unlock the secrets of the universe with the Fibonacci sequence and the golden ratio, create fractals and tessellations like M.C. Escher, create logos, and learn to render scenes in 1, 2 and 3 point perspective! This class will introduce you to graphic tools and techniques with fully integrated projects using mathematical applications.
Credit: .2 Math and .6 Art per semester
Time offered: T/Th am (449 Willamette St.)
Microcosmic Mojo
Instructor: Perry Joseph Grades 7 - 12
Study microbiology through scientific drawing! Topics will include cell types, cell structure, microorganisms and viruses. You will also be introduced to the periodic table, biodiversity, taxonomy and the nature of matter. You will observe organic shapes, forms and textures found in microscopic life forms, render them in watercolor, acrylic and colored pencils, and model them in various 3D media. All work will be kept in a scientific journal.
Credit: .4 Art and .4 Science per semester
Time offered: T/Th pm (449 Willamette St.)
The Matrix: Printmaking I & II
(Prerequisite: Art 1 or instructor approval)
Instructor: Perry Joseph Grades 7- 12
Explore four exciting printmaking techniques: woodcut, collagraph, monotype, and linocut. Printmaking is a great way to make multiples of your artwork to sell, give away as gifts, and still have some to keep for yourself to show off and brag about. Each technique has its own unique qualities that cannot be duplicated in any other medium. Students taking the second level of instruction will be taught advanced techniques of reduction and multiple block registration.
Credit: 1.0 Art per semester
Time offered: MWF am (449 Willamette Street)
Nearby Nature
Calculating the Future II & Math
Instructor: Tom Coppolino Grades 7 - 10
In Calculating the Future, students will increase their understanding and awareness of ecological global issues through activity- based lessons and action projects. This course will be an interdisciplinary exploration of environmental issues and challenges faced by human societies in the 21st century. This course will focus on critically examining the social, cultural, political, and ethical issues related to the environment. In the math half of this course, students are grouped according to their math achievement levels.
This is a one-year course, but students may enter mid-year.
Credits: .5 Math and .5 Social Studies per semester
Credits: .5 Math and .5 Social Studies per semester
Time offered: MWF am (Portland Street)
Earth Works II
Instructor: Wendy McKenzie Grades 7 - 12
Enjoy science and recreation, working and playing on the Earth. In this environmental science class we will look to biology, chemistry and earth science to understand how it all comes together and creates this home of ours. Spring topics include air and water quality, and soils. Studentsshould expect to be active on projects, performing research and collecting data, gardening, hiking, and biking
Credit: .8 Science and .2 Elective Time offered: MWF pm at the yurt
Students can also earn up to 0.2 credit in PE for biking or walking to the yurt, if they do it every day for the whole semester
Energy: The Dynamic Universe II & Geometry
Instructor: Breckon Neat Grades 10 - 12
Physics: In this semester we will be focusing on applications of energy and energy technology. We will look at energy harnessing methods such as nuclear power plants and wind turbines, as well as trends and functions of energy use. Our goal will be to take a more personal look at how we use energy in our daily lives and how our energy choices shape our world. Logic II: Probabilities and Statistical Reasoning: “There are three types of lies,” said author Mark Twain, “lies, damn lies, and statistics.” In our modern lives we use statistics for social and environmental sciences, political debate, and economic game theory as well as a host of other applications. But despite its wide use, many people still regularly misinterpret statistics, either accidentally or on purpose to confuse us. Our goal in this class is to ensure that you are never hoodwinked by bad statistics again. And you may learn to win games of chance more often to boot. In the math portion, students are grouped according to their math achievement levels and participate in math activities that meet Oregon Standards.
This is a one year course, but students may enter mid-year.
Credits: .5 Math and .5 Science per semester
Time offered: MWF pm (Portland Street)
Field Biology II
Instructor: Wendy McKenzie Grades 7 - 12
Explore Eugene’s great outdoors and learn about its plants and animals. This course will cover the fundamentals of natural history from individuals to ecosystems with an emphasis on projects and field work. Restoration ecology will be central to the class, from performing plant and animal surveys and working to restore native plants. Students should expect to be active walking, hiking, and biking, as well as being outdoors in all weather.
Credits: .8 Science .2 Elective Time offered: MWF am at the yurt
Students can also earn up to 0.2 credit in PE for biking or walking to the yurt, if they do it every day for the whole semester
Green Worlds II
Instructor: Wendy McKenzie Grades 9 - 12
Explore science and ecology through fantasy and eco-horror. We will learn biological lessons for this world by reading literature depicting other worlds, past and present. We will start with a film unit that explores how ecological disasters create animals that haunt out nightmares and what that has to say about our separation from nature. We will also study the natural history of Mythical Creatures of the fantasy realm while reading The Hobbit. Students who sign up for this course must enjoy reading.
Credits: .4 Science & .4 Language Arts Time offered: T/Th pm (Portland St)
Human Development; Birth through Adolescence
Instructor: Mary Leighton Grades 9 - 12
What makes 1-year-olds take to their feet? Why are twos terrible, but threes not so much? What happens to make sweet 9-year-olds become moody, unpredictable tens? How can we handle the stresses of a given life stage with less wear and tear on our spirits? In this course, we will study the major achievements that occur between birth and 18 in the areas of physical development, thought, language, emotions, and social skills. In the final weeks of the course, we will learn and practice skills in mindfulness to help us cope more effectively with the challenges of everyday life. This course is offered in partnership with a team from Oregon Research Institute and includes curriculum from LCC’s human development course and ORI’s Adolescent Mindfulness project. It will include field trips to observe rug rats in their natural habitats.
Credits: .8 Psychology Time offered: TTh am (Portland Street)
Independent Living (diploma/graduation requirement)
Instructor: Denise Velasco Grades 11& 12 (minimum age 16)
The big world beyond school awaits, and one day you’ll need to manage your own affairs. Learn how to make it on your own. In this course, you’ll take on topics like applying for a job, interviewing effectively, finding a place to live, managing a bank account, shopping for a loan or mortgage and creating a budget. Students will conduct in-depth career research, as part of new diploma requirements. This course will entail applying detailed written and communication skills and engaging in a 40-hour internship in a field of career interest. Students must pass this class in order to graduate.
This is a one semester course.
Credits: .8 Elective per semester (Career Development/Grad Requirement.)
Time offered: T/Th pm (Portland Street)
Hands on Algebra* & General Health
Instructors: Denise Velasco Grades 7 - 9
For the math portion of the class, you will be actively engaged in projects involving mathematics skills and knowledge. Be involved in Edible number theory! Balloon Platonic Solids! Letterboxing! We will take a Mathematical Adventure! The projects engage you in applications of mathematics and give valuable skills in problem solving, reasoning, and communicating mathematics, while you learn how to conduct research and collaborate with others. The teacher will be in the role of the facilitator rather than the leader. All math activities will be consistent with the Oregon standards. Health class aims at helping students face changes in their bodies, minds and lives as they leave childhood and prepare to enter the adult world. It encourages students to view health as a holistic concept and to pursue a healthy lifestyle. To achieve these goals, students will discuss sensitive health related issues such as puberty, sexuality, substance abuse, child abuse, teen pregnancy, birth control, etc., in an open, informative and non-threatening manner. Students will practice first aid, study nutrition and physical fitness among other topics.
Credits: . .4 Health & .4 Math per semester
Time offered: T/Th am (Portland Street)
*For all math classes in a given class period, students are divided into instructional groups according to their level of math proficiency and provided lessons that move them toward mastery of the state standards. In courses the emphasize problem solving or projects, students with different skills use different strategies. Individual assessment provides evidence of mastery for which credit is awarded for a particular topic.
High School Health & Math*
Instructor: Denise Velasco Grades 10 - 12
In the math half of this course, students are grouped according to their math achievement levels. They participate in hands-on, practical math activities consistent with the Oregon standards.The Health portion of the course covers topics including the benefits of healthy eating; physical activity; mental, social and emotional health; the prevention of drug and alcohol use, unintentional injury, sexually transmitted diseases, violence, and suicide. Learning activities feature guest speakers, field trips (to the OHSU cadaver lab), films, independent projects, role playing, and conflict resolution.
Credits: .5 Math and .5 Health per semester
Time offered: MWF pm (Portland Street)
Gone Fishing! 1, 2 & 3
Instructor: William (Billy) Hughes Grades 7 - 12
This class will teach you how to catch, prepare and consume local hatchery trout. Beginning students will learn with bait rods, and advanced students will learn fly fishing. We will study native fish, local aquatic insects, fly tying, fishing literature, and film. Students will also understand and demonstrate what it means to be an “ethical fisherman.” Expect many mornings spent along the Willamette River, rain or shine.
Credits: .2 P.E. and .6 Elective (0.8 total)
Time offered: T/Th am at the yurt
Students can also earn up to 0.2 credit in PE for biking or walking to the yurt, if they do it every day for the whole semester
Ultimate Frisbee & Math*
Instructors: Tom Coppolino & Billy Hughes Grades 7 - 12
The PE part of this class is geared to learning the spirit of the game of Ultimate. Have fun learning how to fling, huck, and hammer a disc. Students will be expected to participate in this team sport and play outside in all weather. In the math portion of this class, students will participate in hands-on, practical math activities consistent with the Oregon standards and your current math level.
This is a one year course, but students may enter mid-year.
Credits: .5 Math and .5 PE Time offered: MWF pm (Portland Street)
*For all math classes in a given class period, students are divided into instructional groups according to their level of math proficiency and provided lessons that move them toward mastery of the state standards. In courses the emphasize problem solving or projects, students with different skills use different strategies. Individual assessment provides evidence of mastery for which credit is awarded for a particular topic.
Urban Ecology 1, 2 & 3
Class will meet at the Yurt
Instructor: William (Billy) Hughes Grades 7 - 12
These courses will focus on whole systems approaches in the urban landscape. Networking with local organizations, students will learn the importance of community stewardship.
· Urban Ecology 2 will focus on laying the foundation of permaculture ethics and principles. Hands-on community enhancement projects include work at FOOD For Lane County’s Grassroots Garden, Walama Restoration, Madison Meadow Project, Lane Community College Culinary Arts Garden and more...
· Urban Ecology 3 will consist of an internship based on community enhancement projects - working with local community members and/or community organizations. This is a very active course within the Eugene community. Prerequisite: Urban Ecology and permission from the instructor/administrator.
These are offered at the same time, but allow students who have completed two semesters of the course to pursue their interests further.
Credits: .4 P.E., .2 Health, .2 Elective Time offered: T/Th pm (At the Yurt)
Walking with the Undead II & Math*
Instructor: Denise Velasco Grades 7 - 12
Rotting corpses rise from their graves and hunt down the living, ravenous for warm flesh. The survivors run in terror, or huddle together for safety, slowly counting the days until the mob breaks down the barriers…. Why do zombies terrify us? What cultural forces shape the way we see and understand these creatures? Why do they fascinate us? What does our fascination with the living dead tell us about our culture, our society, ourselves? Why do they want brains so much? This course explores the history, significance, and representation of the zombie as a figure in horror and fantasy texts. We will also discuss survival techniques for the inevitably approaching horde. In the math half of this course, students are grouped according to their math achievement levels. Students participate in hands-on, practical math activities consistent with the Oregon standards.
Credits: .4 Math and .4 Elective per semester
Time offered: MWF am (Portland Street)
Peace Village
Coming of Age in the Age of Apocalypse
Overpark, 10th and Oak
Instructor: Darren Reiley Grades 10 - 12
This class continues the journey we began in the Fall. Whereas in first semester, we looked deeply at the mythology of Apocalypse and End of the World prophecies, at dystopian and utopian visions of the future, the second semester focuses more intensely on what it means to be coming into adulthood while surrounded by a mythology of impending doom. We will continue an exploration of mythology by studying the Hero’s Journey tale type, study philosophical ideas of metaphysics and epistemology, and, most importantly, learn how to take command of our own Coming of Age process.
This course may be taken one or two semesters.
Credits: .4 Language Arts and .4 Social Studies per semester
Time offered: T/Th am at PV (Overpark, 10th and Oak)
Speak Up!
Instructor: Jami Teran Grades 7 - 9
Speak-Up! is a creative writing class based in peace studies and non-violent conflict resolution. This course offers writing workshops, discussion and performance opportunities for students to develop their own thoughts, ideas and inspirations toward positive change within themselves and our community. Speak-Up! allows students to explore diverse cultural perspectives on peace through exposure to a variety of readings, social movements, art and music while cultivating a personal vision of peace.
Credits: .8 Language Arts
Time offered: T/Th pm at PV (Overpark, 10th and Oak)
PeaceOut 2
Instructor: Darren Reiley Grades 10 - 12
PeaceOut 2 is a year-long study of the nature of peace and conflict in human societies and in our lives. The second semester of PeaceOut 2 goes into more depth on intercultural and international ideas of peace. Beginning with a study of American government and civics, we will examine not only the history and roots of violent conflict, but also conflict on an interpersonal and internal level. We’ll study the theories regarding peace and conflict from primary historical and religious texts. We’ll read novels, poems and short stories that provide insight into what peace could be. We’ll also study nonviolent resistance movements from around the world. Along with all that, we’ll still work on nonviolent communication and conflict resolution, learning through games and developing a peaceful self through yoga, meditation and tai chi. If you’ve ever wondered whether you can be powerful and peaceful at the same time, this is where you’ll find out. This course may be taken for one or two semesters.
Credits: .5 Social Studies and .5 Language Arts per semester
Time offered: MWF am at PV (Overpark, 10th and Oak)
Circle of Change
Instructor: David Maloney (Many Hands) Grades 9 - 12
Circles of Change is an interactive, dynamic course that focuses on increasing understanding the concept of community from as many angles as possible. We’ll learn from traditional cultures how community shows up around the world. Local Native American spiritual teachers and influential community members will explain what they think about community. We’ll learn concrete strategies for community enhancement and problem solving skills that will help us deal positively with conflict in our daily lives, neighborhoods, and communities. We will develop team-building techniques to work and communicate more effectively with other people. We will study community change movements, questioning their tenets, their motives and their means in achieving desired outcomes. With this background, you will step out into the community to focus in on a local issue that you’re passionate about and start a community change project of your own. This is your opportunity to “be the change you wish to see in the world.”
Credits: .5 Language Arts and .5 PE Social Studies
Time offered: MWF pm at PV (Overpark, 10th and Oak)