Practical Arts

Mission Statement: The mission of the Practical Arts Department is multifaceted. We are an academically diverse community committed to educating the whole person in leadership, technology, engineering, and business skills, while promoting ethics and interpersonal relationships in the Catholic Marianist tradition.

Vision Statement: The vision of the Practical Arts Department at Chaminade is to be a leader among Marianist high schools in the aspect of technology, business and leadership curriculums.

Department Chairperson: Mr. John Lawrence
314-993-4400 x1272
jlawrence@chaminade-stl.com

MIDDLE SCHOOL COURSES
ESTO VIR LEADERSHIP 1
LEA 630
Level: 
6
Duration:Two Semesters - 1 Credit
Description:Esto Vir Leadership is a technology-based, interdisciplinary course designed to provide in-depth instruction in core academic, social and personal skills. The primary objective of the course is to teach sixth graders practical tools needed for success at school and in life. Thus, it is consistent with Chaminade’s mission of providing students with a high quality college preparatory education whose foundation resides firmly in the Catholic Marianist tradition.

Esto Vir Leadership will begin with thorough instruction in keyboarding skills, various software applications, and other technologies that students will need to adequately complete academic requirements across the Chaminade curricula. Once these foundational technological skills have been mastered, topics ranging from organization and study skills to conflict resolution, character education, and Christian service will be introduced.

Accordingly, course assignments and projects will require students to demonstrate both technological literacy as well as an understanding of the concepts taught from the academic, social and personal domains.

Due to the interdisciplinary nature of this course, faculty members with different areas of expertise will serve as “guest” instructors throughout the school year, providing sixth graders with exposure to Chaminade’s tremendous faculty resources and to the best possible instruction on campus.

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HIGH SCHOOL COURSES
ESTO VIR LEADERSHIP
LEA 130
Level: 
9
Duration: One Semester - ½ Credit
Description: This ninth grade course consists of two major areas of concentration:
“Esto Vir”– this curriculum unit is divided into four learning objectives. 1) an appreciation and study of the origin and history of Blessed William Joseph Chaminade, the order he founded, the school’s that bears his name, and the signs and symbols that represent the school; 2) provide and examine a plan for achieving academic success at the start of high school and strategies for maintaining that success throughout a student’s time at Chaminade; 3) prepare and plan for future collegiate decisions since this is the ultimate goal upon successful completion of the high school academic program; and, 4) provide time for the counselors to discuss various issues significant to all freshmen. “Leadership Skills”– this curriculum unit provides training and education in the concepts, philosophies, elements, tools, and practices of effective leadership and management required as an effective leader. It focuses on leadership qualities, models, styles, management skills and concerns, communication skills, and discussions of applicable personnel issues related to both leadership and management effectiveness, with major emphasis on situational leadership, values and ethics, and quality. Students will be afforded opportunities to apply various models and techniques through combinations of discussion, projects, problem-solving exercises, case studies, and role playing scenarios.

TECHNOLOGY IN THE WORLD
TEC130
Level
: 9
Duration: One Semester - ½ Credit
Description: This class is designed to introduce students to a wide range of technology and how it is used at Chaminade and in our world. It will encompass the following content: use of laptop peripherals including the projection systems, digital video, and digital cameras, including file management. Students will be introduced to computer programming and web page design using HTML. A basic theory of computer networking, computer ethics, computer hardware acclamation and laptop troubleshooting will be examined. Keyboarding, Microsoft Excel, desktop publishing, and presentation techniques within a business model will be researched and taught. Students will research and report technological advances on a weekly basis. Students will explore the multitude of uses for technological tools in the workplace that enhance business, education, and other professions.

BROADCAST TECHNOLOGY
BRD 230
Level:
10, 11
Duration:
One Semester – ½ Credit
Description: This course will introduce students to technological and journalistic skills of the internet broadcast industry. Students will research, analyze, write, anchor, produce and direct various styles of internet shows. Students may have assignments that require them to travel or complete in the evening. This course will have limited enrollment due to the physical space of the studio and control room.   

INTRODUCTION TO BUSINESS            
BUS 230
Level:
10, 11
Duration:One Semester - ½ Credit
Description:This course is intended to introduce students to business concepts and systems. The course will cover the following areas: economics, ethics, entrepreneurship, global economy, marketing, human resource management, business technology, finance & credit, law, insurance, and business careers. The objective of this course is to get students interested in the world of business.

COMPUTER NETWORKING AND OPERATING SYSTEMS      
COM 435
Level:
10, 11, 12
Duration:
One Semester - ½ Credit
Prerequisite:None
Description:Students will learn basic networking procedures including design and implementation of a PC network along with network management, security and maintenance. The course will explore the different networking features of the Windows Operating System (as required for A+ Certification) and the advances in network technologies. Alternative networking hardware/software will be examined relative to cost analysis and design features including cabled versus wireless networks along with non-Microsoft solutions to networking software. This course will include lab training to enable students to build a model network along with guided lessons and testing for understanding the development of large-scale networks using the most current technology features.

COMPUTER TROUBLESHOOTING AND A+ CERTIFICATION
COM 430

Level:10, 11, 12
Duration:One Semester - ½ Credit
Description:This class is designed to enhance student skills in the operation, troubleshooting, repair of computer hardware and software and an introduction to network operations. The areas of study will include: troubleshooting desktop and laptop hardware and software problems for PC’s only, computer component operation and diagnosis, hardware identification and replacement, introduction to network hardware and software. This course will have some theory and hands on activities combined with extensive vocabulary growth in computer technology.

WEB PAGE DESIGN
WEB430
Level
: 10, 11, 12
Duration:One Semester - ½ Credit
Description:This class is designed to teach students web page and website design, development and function. This class will consist of lectures and projects. Students will develop several websites that will be used for personal, school or professional organizations. Students will be expected to have basic computer and file organization skills. The area of study will include: HTML & Javascript Language, troubleshooting, publishing, web page and website layout and design, web page authoring tools will be explored for advanced web page developments.

COMPUTER PROGRAMMING WITH JAVA
CPP 430

Level:10, 11, 12
Duration:One Semester - ½ Credit
Description:This course is designed to instruct students in the procedures for developing and implementing computer programs using the JAVA language. The course includes the study of computer science concepts relative to hardware and software integration, along with extensive problem solving techniques and lab work. Students will originate program solutions to common computer programming problems using proper documentation and formal programming procedures.

ACC ADVANCED MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEMS
MIS 470
ACC: University of Missouri - St. Louis
Level
: 11, 12
Duration:One Semester - ½ Credit
Description: This course teaches the fundamentals of accurate, modern programming methodology in a Windows environment. High-level functions will be introduced using the Microsoft Office Suite: Word, Excel, Access, and Power point. Students will be able to easily integrate multiple applications. Students will learn how to program graphical user interfaces using Microsoft Visual Basic and be able to customize and take control of major applications such as the Microsoft Office Suite. In addition, case studies will also be examined, placing the student in “real-life” business programming experiences. The problems are analyzed and the programs are developed using design tools. The students will build working, computer programs to solve repetitious business problems and learn to use programming to assist with other student courses and student life activities. 

AP COMPUTER SCIENCE/ADVANCED PROGRAMMING WITH JAVA
CPP 470

AP: Advanced Placement College Board
Level:
11, 12
Duration:
Two Semesters - 1 Credit
Prerequisites:Teacher approval. Department Chair approval
Description:This course is designed for the student who desires advanced computer programming techniques in preparation for the AP Computer Science Exam. This course emphasizes strict modular program design and implementation. Students will plan, construct, test and modify original programs which are specifically designed to amplify key computer science concepts as determined by the AP College Board, using the JAVA computer language.

ACC CISCO ACADEMY I: NETWORKING FUNDAMENTALS
CNA 370
ACC: Forest Park Community College - 5 Credits
Level:
11, 12
Duration:One Semester - ½ Credit
Prerequisite/s: S completion of either COM 430 and/or COM 435
Description:This course is designed to provide students with classroom and laboratory experience in current and emerging networking technology emphasizing: Network terminology and protocols; network standards; local area networks; wide area networks; OSI model; cabling and cabling tools; routing; Ethernet and fiber optic standards; and, IP addressing and network standards. This course prepares students for the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) exam and the Network + exam. Online coursework: (login required) provided by Cisco Network Academy

ACC CISCO ACADEMY II: ROUTERS AND ROUTING PROTOCOLS AND CONCEPTS     
CNA 375
ACC: Forest Park Community College - 5 Credits
Level:
11, 12
Duration:One Semester - ½ Credit
Prerequisite/s:Successful completion of Cisco Academy I course
Description:This course is designed to provide students with classroom and laboratory experience in current and emerging networking technology emphasizing: the OSI model, LANS; WANS; TCP/IP; routers; router configuration; routed and routing protocols; internet work operating system images; and, network troubleshooting. Students will become familiar with the use of command protocols and how to configure and troubleshoot a router networked topologies. This course prepares students for the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) exam and the Network + exam. Online coursework: (login required) provided by Cisco Network Academy.

FINANCIAL ACCOUNTING
ACC 470

Level:11, 12
Duration:Two Semesters - 1 Credit
Description:Financial accounting is an elective in the area of business education. It is an introduction to the generally accepted accounting principles and the practices of the accounting profession. It introduces the proper techniques for gathering, summarizing and making financial reports for investors. Students learn to make logical business decisions based upon the financial information. This course is a good introduction for students who are pursuing a business degree, desire to own their own business or just wanting to learn how to make smart personal financial decisions. Other topics covered include investing, taxes and business ownership.

BUSINESS LAW
LAW 430

Level:11, 12
Duration:One Semester - ½ Credit
Description:This course is a good introduction for students contemplating any type of business degree. This course will give students a better understanding of their rights and duties as citizens. It prepares students to recognize and understand legal principles or problems, which affect them throughout their lives. General rules of law, as well as the many exceptions, are covered on a variety of topics including kinds of law, ethics, court systems, crimes and torts, and contract law.

AP MACROECONOMICS
ECO470
AP: Advanced Placement College Board (optional)
Level:
11, 12
Duration:Two Semesters - 1 Credit
Description:This course is a good introduction for students contemplating any type of business degree. This full credit course is designed to instill in students an understanding of their role as citizen, consumer, and producer within the economic system of society. The course is designed to address both the theoretical and practical concepts of economics. The first semester focuses on economic foundations and microeconomic principles, mainly in the U.S.  The second semester addresses macroeconomic principles and global economics. “IText” is utilized in conjunction with the regular text. The AP Macroeconomics Exam and the AP Microeconomics Exam are optional.

ENGINEERING DRAFTING AND DESIGN
CAD 330

Level:11, 12
Duration:Two Semesters - 1 Credit
Description:This full credit course is designed to prepare the student in the area of engineering drawing and design. Students will use sketching and mechanical drawing techniques and graduate to computer-aided design. Students will be instructed in Pro/Engineer program, its fundamentals and applications. Bridge design and building and architecture are introduced in this class. This course gives the student interested in engineering and/or architecture the basic concepts, skills, and techniques needed for future endeavors in college. 

ARCHITECTURAL DRAFTING AND DESIGN
CAD 430

Level:11,12
Duration:Two Semesters - 1 Credit
Description: This full credit course is designed to instruct the student in architectural history, drawing, design and computer applications. The student will learn the fundamental skills and concepts necessary for planning and designing one and two story houses. Floor plans, electrical plans, elevations, plot plans, construction details, and foundation plans are a few of the drawings that are included in the student’s portfolio, both pencil and CADD drawings. This course begins with a brief history of architecture and ends with completing a full set of house plans.

NATURAL HISTORY AND ENVIRONMENT FIELD COURSE
NHE 430
Level: Summer Between 10 & 11, or between 11 & 12
Duration: Eight Day Summer Program - ½ Credit
Prerequisites: Selection process involves consideration of student essay applications, consultation with teachers and counselors. Additional fee required for this course.
Description:This outdoor seminar immerses students in the subject of their study, showing them the benefits of direct rather than vicarious contact with what they learn.  They see that educational self-direction creates deeper involvement and intellectual gain; they experience and appreciate nature's beauty; they come to understand that all things connect with one another.  While the course has been conducted at Rocky Mountain and Yellowstone National Parks, other sites may be considered.

Using an array of field manuals and other texts, the students read about the natural history of the region.  They choose to learn further in certain areas and make field notes accordingly.  They travel throughout the area, hike in the mountains near lakes and along streams; become attuned to the aesthetic of nature.  They take photographs and make drawings that will later appear in their papers.

The students develop community in a house where they participate in meal preparation, cleanup, and various other household chores.  Evenings are given to videos about the area, journal work, and discussion.  The subject matter of natural history provides a vehicle for students to learn about learning; living communally helps them learn about themselves.  They submit an eight to ten page paper that is due by Open House in the fall.