API Curriculum

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The American Preparatory Institute (API) curriculum is designed for self-paced learning. Every course directs students toward mastery of specific learning objectives for each subject.

The basic unit of instruction in all API courses is the learning module. Subject matter in each module is based on a competency statement - identified as the Module Objective - that specifies what skill the student must master.

Student progress is measured by achievement of specific competencies through satisfactory completion of module posttests, midterm assessments, and final examinations.

 
Mathematical Models with Applications
MATH 102
Credit: 1.0

This course is a course in which students use algebraic, graphical, and geometric reasoning to recognize patterns, to model information, and to solve real-life problems.
Geometry
MATH 104
Credit: 1.0

This course is a comprehensive course enhanced by emphasizing and integrating logical reasoning and spatial visualization skills.

Maintenance and improvement of arithmetic and algebraic skills are integral parts of this course.
Algebra I
MATH 108
Credit: 1.0

This course includes concepts and skills involved in real numbers, linear equations and inequalities in both one and two variables, polynomials, rational expressions, roots and operations with radicals, and quadratic equations.
Algebra II
MATH 109
Credit: 1.0

This course addresses concepts and skills inherent in the development of mathematical structure, quadratic functions and relations, systems of equations, numerical methods and higher degree polynomials, exponential and logarithmic functions, rational algebraic functions, sequence and series, and data handling and analysis.
Creative Writing
ENGL 311
Credit: 0.5

This course focuses on using literary conventions applied in poetry and prose. The student will practice observation, analysis, structure, journal writing, and other aspects of producing original works in one or more genre.
Practical Writing
ENGL 312
Credit: 0.5

This course provides help to the student refine and reinforce writing skills in the areas of sentence structure, paragraph formation, and short essay development, and especially the persuasive essay. Emphasis is placed on business and day-to-day applications.
Technical Writing
ENGL 313
Credit: 0.5

This course is designed to give the student the necessary skills to perform research activities using primary and secondary sources, interpret data, and organize material. The focus of the course is producing an acceptable research paper. The student will learn proper forms for business correspondence, practice completing application forms, and using and applying appropriate punctuation and vocabulary.
English I
ENGL 321
Credit: 1.0

This course affords students writing and language concepts and skills practice through oral and written composition exercises.

In addition, integrated literature and reading skills are strengthened through the study of culturally valuable contemporary literature, as well as traditional literature focusing on tales of Greek mythology.
English II
ENGL 322
Credit: 1.0

This course provides students with writing, and language concepts, and skills practice through oral and written composition exercises.

Using a thematic approach applicable to today’s world, students sharpen their integrated literature and reading skills through the study of culturally-valuable contemporary literature. Students will also be introduced to world literature written by diverse authors.
English III
ENGL 323
Credit: 1.0

This course provides continued instruction and practice in the composing processes, including narrative, descriptive, classificatory, and evaluative modes. Integrated literature and reading concepts and skills are developed through reading major works from the various periods of American literature.
English IV
ENGL 324
Credit: 1.0

This course targets senior-level competency in writing, literature, and grammar. Areas of study include, but are not limited to: close reading of prose and poetry from the Anglo-Saxon period through the Contemporary period, literary elements and devices, important historical events and important cultural developments; writing error-free, wellsupported essays; and using practical applications that include listening skills, correspondence, information analysis, and resume and interview preparation.
Spanish I
SPAN 341
Credit: 1.0

This course emphasizes in pronunciation of basic vocabulary.

The course also provides an introduction to the Spanish-speaking world, including information about alphabet, numbers, holidays, family, adjectives, food, verbs and more.

A variety of audio exercises is provided to improve the understanding of the language, sound recognition of the vocabulary and their pronunciation in Spanish.
Communication Applications
SPCH 351
Credit: 0.5

This course teaches the basic principles of public speaking. The student learns to understand the physical, mental, and social processes of speech as well as coping techniques for eventual speech delivery.
Biology
BIOL 402
Credit: 1.0

This course emphasizes the application of biological concepts to everyday life. Studies are made of complex living organisms. Topics include human anatomy, reproduction, and care of the human body. Laboratory experiments are provided.

Student Laboratory Kit includes: Prepared microscope slides, Polypropylene beaker set, Folding pocket magnifier, Celsius oral thermometer, Fahrenheit oral thermometer, DNA model kit, “Blood Cells” wall chart.
Health
HLTH 403
Credit: 0.5

This course provides students with an understanding of personal health and safety as well as health-related issues, for prevention of communicable, non-communicable, and sexually transmitted diseases. In addition, this course includes information about drug education.
Advanced Health
HLTH 405
Credit: 0.5

This course emphasizes the importance of making healthy lifestyle choices and using resources to assist in making those choices. Highlighting the availability of reliable websites, the course offers students the opportunity to search for health information on-line and to do self-assessments. Additionally, the course covers nutrition and exercise, chronic diseases, reproductive health and sexually transmitted diseases, mental health, safety, community health, and alternative medicine.
Integrated Physics and Chemistry
SCIE 404
Credit: 1.0

This course is designed to present the basic concepts of physics and chemistry to the student. Students will learn about matter classification, atomic structure and bonding, chemical reactions, characteristics of force, and the behavior of light and sound. Application of the material to the real world is emphasized with explanations of combustion engines, electric current, and the chemical make-up of common household products. Students will also understand the arrangement of the periodic table of elements and the function of the metric system in measurement conversion. Up-to-date career opportunities in the chemical and physical science fields are also presented.
Environmental Science
SCIE 408
Credit: 1.0

This course focuses on the environment, the long term effects of pollutants and insecticides, and the use of earth’s natural resources. Laboratory experiments are related to real-life situations.
Horticulture
SCIE 409
Credit: 1.0

This course provides a classroom/lab course to give students practical experiences in landscaping, environmental practices, recognizing plant diseases, and working in a greenhouse or plant nursery.
Physical Education
Foundations of Personal Fitness
PHED 410
Credit: 0.5

This course motivates the student to pursue a healthy lifestyle. To this end, the student is taught how fitness affects social behaviors in education, with the family, with peers, and in individual development.
World History
HIST 509
Credit: 1.0

This course is a study of early civilizations and their contributions to the world. Political, economic, and social changes are traced through the Medieval, Renaissance, and Reformation eras. The emergence of Europe as a power and contemporary world developments bring the study to the twentieth century.
U.S. Government (Texas)
GOVT 503T
Credit: 0.5

This course is designed to provide the student with information about the rights and responsibilities of United States citizens and residents. It includes studies of the functions and limitations of federal, Texas, and local governments.
World Geography
GEOG 505
Credit: 1.0

This course is designed to provide the students with an awareness of the world around them. This course surveys physical geography and emphasizes topics such as religions, cultures, and political systems. Major emphasis is placed on North America, Europe, and Asia.
U.S. History
HIST 508
Credit: 1.0

This course presents a continuum of the American experience from 1865 through present, with emphasis on recurring patterns in politics, economics, international relations, and social problems.
Economics (Free Enterprise)
ECON 602
Credit: 0.5

This course emphasizes the free enterprise system, its characteristics, benefits, and goals. Emphasis is placed on such aspects as supply and demand, the circular flow of economic activity, and the business cycle.
Psychology
PSYC 520
Credit: 0.5

This course provides students with an understanding of the major theories, principles, and figures in the field of psychology. Behavioral developments and biological aspects of mental health are explored, as well as causes and treatments of mental disorders.
Parenting and Child Development
CDEC 701
Credit: 1.0

This course provides the student with practical information about family relationships, teen pregnancy, nutrition, exceptional children, and the health, safety, and characteristics of children and newborns through the toddler stages. Laboratory exercises are provided.
Keyboarding and Word Processing
COMP 704
Credit: 0.5

This course provides students with the skills to type and perform word processing applications successfully. Keyboarding and Word Processing is an introductory course for students unfamiliar with the typewriter or computer.
Business Computer Information Systems I
BCIS 705
Credit: 1.0

Prerequisite: Completion of COMP 704 Keyboarding

This course builds on computer skills learned in COMP 704 and provides practical business applications using word processing and desktop publishing functions; creating and formatting spreadsheets; designing and manipulating databases; viewing, creating, and saving presentations; using e-mail; and searching for and storing information from the Internet.
Individual and Family Life
ELEC 706
Credit: 0.5

This course explains the basic functions of the family, concepts related to adult roles, and interpersonal relationships. Special concerns of family life such as domestic violence and special needs of family members, are explored.
Interior Design
ELEC 707
Credit: 0.5

This course teaches the student the elements and principles of interior design. The design practices discussed in the course include lighting, furniture, appliances, and accessories. The student will also learn how to create floor plans and gain knowledge of careers related to interior design.
Music History/Appreciation
MUSI 708
Credit: 1.0

This course provides the student an overview of music. The student will learn the basics of music theory, including tempos, dynamics, intervals, chords, and forms. They will be required to sing, play an instrument, and conduct, as well as evaluate a live musical performance.

The musical eras discussed are the Middle Ages, Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, Romantic, 20th Century, and American Music. These seven modules also include listening assignments for each period of music discussed. The audio CD set that accompanies the course is Music: An Appreciation 5th Brief Edition by Roger Kamien.
Art Hsitory/Appreciation
ARTS 709
Credit: 1.0

This course provides the student an appreciation of art, the artists, and their work during the different historical periods.
Medical Terminology
ELEC 710
Credit: 0.5

This course gives the student an overview of basic terminology used in the medical field. Students will gain an understanding for the essentials needed for a career in the healthcare industry.

Students will learn and practice using common abbreviations, acronyms, and symbols as a time-saving device.
Family and Career Management
ELEC 711
Credit: 0.5

This course is designed to provide an orientation to the world of work and family. The student will learn how to locate, secure, keep, and change careers while maintaining a balanced family life.
Accounting I
BUSI 713
Credit: 1.0

This course introduces students to the basic principles of accounting, such as the accounting equation, and a thorough introduction to accounting terms and practices. Also included are detailed, hands-on exercises that include T accounts, journals, ledgers, trial balances, bank reconciliation, payroll, and more. The course also offers students useful information about careers in the field of Accounting.
Journalism
ELEC 714
Credit: 0.5

Journalism is rooted deep in the history of the United States. It has facilitated change, sparked reformation, and encouraged the advancement of society. This course explores the history of journalism, its functions in today’s society, and an introduction to different types of journalist writing. In this course, students will learn writing techniques and acquire a basic knowledge of journalistic production.
Desktop Publishing
COMP 716
Credit: 1.0

This course builds upon the fundamentals of technology education. Students will develop an understanding of visual communication in relation to computers and technology. Research techniques, copyright and intellectual property standards, design elements and principles, and software usage are all core concepts covered in this course. Students will also become familiar with the tools provided by Microsoft® Word in reference to desktop publishing.
Preparatory Mathematics
PSMA 0101
Credit: 0.0

This course provides help to students develop or refresh their basic mathematical skills. The course also covers an introduction to algebraic and geometric concepts. Practical applications of these concepts include such topics as budgeting, balancing a checkbook, and comparison shopping.
Preparatory Social Studies
PSSS 0501
Credit: 0.0

This course provides help to students to develop their basic social studies concepts.
Reading Improvement
PSRE 0202
Credit: 0.0

This course provides help to the high school student having difficulty with reading comprehension. This course includes reading elements that help the student with reading comprehension and pass state mandated assessment tests.
Preparatory Writing
PSWR 0301
Credit: 0.0

This course provides help to students to develop or refresh their basic writing skills. Some examples of the topics included in the course include parts of speech, subject-verb agreement, sentence patterns and punctuation, writing effective sentences and paragraphs, types of essays and letters, and dictionary usage.
Preparatory Science
PSCI 0401
Credit: 0.0

This course provides help to students to develop or refresh their basic science concepts.