Toppenish High School

ELA

At Toppenish High School, English Language Arts courses offer a comprehensive approach to developing students' language skills and literary understanding. In English 9, students delve into various writing styles, from descriptive to persuasive, while also honing their reading comprehension through analysis of diverse literary genres. Through peer feedback and classroom portfolios, students refine their writing abilities, preparing them for future academic endeavors. Honors English 9 challenges accelerated students with additional reading and writing outside of class, fostering advanced skills in expository and persuasive writing, alongside a deep exploration of literature including Greek mythology and Shakespeare. As students progress to English 10 and beyond, the focus shifts towards mastering critical reading strategies, crafting coherent essays, and engaging with complex literary works, ultimately preparing them for college-level writing and analysis.

English courses at Toppenish High School not only aim to enhance students' language proficiency but also foster a deeper appreciation for literature and critical thinking. In Junior and Senior years, students tackle sophisticated texts and undertake analytical writing assignments, refining their ability to articulate original theses and engage with complex literary themes. Honors tracks provide additional challenges for motivated students, requiring independent reading and rigorous writing assignments that promote personal growth and intellectual development. By the end of their high school journey, students are equipped with the skills necessary for success in college-level English courses and beyond, supported by a curriculum that emphasizes both academic excellence and personal growth.

Math

High school mathematics builds on the foundation set in middle grades by deepening students understanding of linear and exponential functions, introducing students to mathematical reasoning and arguments, and developing students understanding of advanced algebraic concepts and the application to real-world problems.  Students looking to further their math skills have opportunities to apply their knowledge in advanced courses such as statistics and calculus.  A strong mathematics program prepares students for success in college, trade, school, employment or the military.

Real-world scenarios give students the opportunity to share and connect to their own unique experiences. The programs are aligned to the Washington State Mathematics K-12 Learning Standards (commonly referred to as the Common Core State Standards). These standards describe what students should know and be able to do at each grade level. The Mathematical Practices embedded with in these standards describe varieties of experience that students need to develop to be proficient in mathematics.

Science

High School students engage in hands-on science through an integrated approach to teaching science and engineering. The integrated approach combines engineering design along with scientific inquiry, emphasizing the relationship between scientific investigations and engineering design in solving problems and devising new ideas and technologies. The goal is for students to realize the importance of science and engineering in innovation and in solving many of today’s challenges. A working knowledge and practicality of engineering design prepares students for embracing the challenges of the future. 

These courses are aligned to the Next Generation Science Standards,  K–12 science content standards that set the expectations for what students should know and be able to do.

History

At Toppenish High School, the History Department offers a diverse range of courses that provide students with a comprehensive understanding of American and world history. In American Government and World Events, students explore the origins of the democratic system in the United States, analyzing the Constitution and its application at national, state, and local levels. The course emphasizes civic engagement and the role of citizens in shaping government and society. For advanced students, Honors American Government delves deeper into political theory and global issues, including human rights and terrorism, preparing students for rigorous academic discourse and statewide competitions.

In U.S. History courses, students critically examine key events and issues of the 20th century from various perspectives, fostering analytical skills and historical literacy. Honors U.S. History offers an enriched curriculum with extended reading assignments and in-depth discussions, challenging students to develop nuanced arguments and interpretations. Additionally, US History Through Film provides a unique approach to historical study, using popular culture representations to analyze and critique historical narratives. In Modern World History, students explore global connections and major events from the Age of Exploration to modern independence movements, while in Modern World History, students explore global connections and major events from World War 1 to the Cold War, while Honors Modern World History offers an advanced exploration of regional connections and analytical skills development. These courses equip students with the knowledge and critical thinking skills necessary to understand and engage with complex historical issues both domestically and internationally.