WHS Curriculum Fair: Business

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Accounting
Advanced Information Systems
Business Law
Business Management
Cooperative Office Education COE
Criminal Justice
Design, Multimedia and Web Technologies
Finance
Information Systems
IT Fundamentals
Office Administration
Principles of Business
Programming
Webpage Development

ACCOUNTING
Grades:10-12
Credit: one

Students learn basic accounting principles, concepts, and practices. Analysis and interpretation of information is mastered through a variety of source documents, simulations, and computer activities. Topics include forms of ownership, the accounting cycle, payroll, and banking activities.

What kind/how much homework is required in this class?

There is generally no homework for this class, except for studying for an occasional vocabulary quiz or to catch up from absences.

Describe a typical lesson in this class.

Students will learn concepts related to the tracking of financial activities for a business. Teacher and students will work through practice problems together and then students will complete a series of problems that enhance the skills they just learned. Students will also use the computer lab and accounting software to see real world applications of the skills they just learned. We have also integrated Jeopardy and Monopoly into the learning of accounting topics.

What kind of materials do you use in this course?

No special materials are used, but we do use the computer lab to learn about automated accounting and accounting careers. It helps to have a basic four function calculator.

Is there any after-school commitment or extracurricular activities associated with this class?

FBLA is a co-curricular activity run through the business department. Meetings take place after school and students can sign up for any activities they want to participate in.

How can this class help me in the future?

Accounting is extremely relevant for all students because we deal with the tracking and management of money. Although the course is taught with the records of a business, we try to relate to all students how these same concepts are used for individuals. We discuss budgeting, cash flow, assets and liabilities, income, expenses, taxes, and checking accounts, among other topics. Every student will learn concepts that they can start to apply in their own lives right now.

Anything else I should know?

This is an extremely structured class. Any student with good basic math skills (addition, subtraction, etc.) can be successful in Accounting. Each chapter builds on the previous chapter and reinforces the concepts that have already been learned.

Where do I go if I have more questions about this course?

Mr. Chris DiLandro, Room D205
christopher.dilandro@fcps.edu

ADVANCED INFORMATION SYSTEMS
Grades: 10-12
Credit: one

Prerequisite: Information Systems or equivalent skill/instructor approval

Advanced Information Systems provides students with opportunities to develop professional level skills in a project-oriented approach through the use of Microsoft Office Suite. Instruction includes units in operating systems, networking and hardware principles, presentation tools, spreadsheets and charts, relational databases, technical writing and desktop publishing projects, and basic web publishing using the Microsoft Office Suite. Students may take this course in conjunction with Cooperative Office Education (COE).

Describe a typical lesson in this class.

Advanced Information Systems is a hands-on and project-oriented course. Projects are completed both individually and in groups, depending on the current assignment and level of student knowledge.

The course begins with the principles/review of each software component, and moves on to more advanced concepts as the year progresses. Multi-tasking is a component of the course. New concepts are introduced through teamwork and class demonstrations. Projects build on previously learned computer skills, and are completed at an individual’s pace.

What kind/how much homework is required in this class?

All work is completed on computers during class; therefore, no homework is required.

What kind of materials do you use in this course ?

Windows, Internet, scanners, digital cameras, CD burners

How can this class help me in the future?

All knowledge learned in this class can be utilized in other high school courses that students are taking. The concepts learned also will benefit the student in college courses and future job experiences.

Where do I go if I have more questions about this course?

Nancy McCarthy Room R209
anne.mccarthy@fcps.edu

Students learn to write programs using the Microsoft Visual Studio Visual Basic.NET programming language. Programs include decision and looping structures, graphics, sound and animation. Students also learn to create web pages using HTML, JavaScript. Students may take this course in conjunction with Cooperative Office Education (COE).

Describe a typical lesson in this class.

The entire time is spent on a computer. Students will learn to create programs that will run within the Windows environment. Fourth quarter will be dedicated to learning HTML and JavaScript and web pages in VB.NET.

What kind/how much homework is required in this class?
No homework is assigned since the majority of work is completed on the computer using a special program (VB.NET). Any student who needs to complete or make-up work can come after school to use the computer lab.

Is there any after-school commitment or extracurricular activities associated with this class?

FBLA is a co-curricular activity run through the business department. Meetings take place during the school day and students sign up for any "outside" activities they want to participate in.

How can this class help me in the future?

Programming is a great course for students interested in learning about how to write a computer program. There is a lot of logical thinking and problem solving, business problem applications, and word problems. The great variety of job opportunities in computer related fields is also discussed.

Anything else I should know?

This class is an extremely hands-on course for people who want to know more about programming. This is a course for beginners who can think logically and be creative.

Where do I go if I have more questions about this course?

Virginia Muller Office D204 or R208
virginia.muller@fcps.edu

INFORMATION SYSTEMS
Grades:9-12
Credit: one

Students learn to create a variety of word processing documents that contain columns, clip art, tables, word art and much more. Students also master basic spreadsheet functions as well as if/then statements and charting. Students use databases to create, sort, query, and design reports. Instruction includes operating systems and use of the Internet. Students integrate software applications while solving business problems using a cross-curricular approach.

Describe a typical lesson in this class.

Students will create letters, reports, tables, spreadsheets and desktop presentations. The software used for this class includes the Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint). This class is all hands on. Students also use the Internet for information needed in class assignments.

What kind/how much homework is required in this class?

This class has no homework with the exception of staying after school to make up work when a student is absent or falls behind.

What kind of materials do you use in this course?

Students will use Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, and the Internet.

Is there any after-school commitment or extracurricular activities associated with this class?

After school commitment is only when the student misses class or falls behind.

Future Business Leaders of America is the co-curricular organization that keyboarding students can join. This organization helps develop student's leadership skills and offers opportunities for socials and field trips.

How can this class help me in the future?

In today's society all students should have the ability to manipulate the computer to produce word processing, spreadsheets and databases, as well as, presentations. This class will give the basic knowledge they need to complete these tasks.

Where do I go if I have more questions about this course?

Nancy McCarthy Room R209, anne.mccarthy@fcps.edu
Michelle Crumpler Room 207, michelle.crumpler@fcps.edu

IT FUNDAMENTALS
Grades:9-10
Credit: one

Students investigate career opportunities and technologies in four major IT areas: Information Services and Support, Network Systems, Programming and Software Development, and Interactive Media. The focus of the IT Fundamentals course is the introduction of skills related to information technology basics, Internet fundamentals, network systems, computer maintenance/upgrading/troubleshooting, computer applications, programming, graphics, Web page design, and interactive media.

Describe a typical lesson in this class.

Students will be involved in different activities making this class very hands on. Students will take part in the following:
-Taking a computer apart and putting it back together
-Making videos using movie maker and sound programs
-Creating letters, reports, tables, spreadsheets and desktop presentations
-Creating Web Pages/Sites using HTML
-Basic Programming
-Learning to use the Internet

The software used for this class includes the Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

What kind/how much homework is required in this class?

This class has no homework with the exception of staying after school to make up work when a student is absent or falls behind.

What kind of materials do you use in this course?

Students will use Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and the Internet.

Is there any after-school commitment or extracurricular activities associated with this class?

After school commitment is only when the student misses class or falls behind.

How can this class help me in the future?

Information Technology (IT) Fundamentals helps students to pursue programs leading to professional careers and IT certifications. Students explore ethical issues related to computers and Internet technology and develop teamwork and communication skills that will enhance their employability.

Where do I go if I have more questions about this course?

Michelle Crumpler Room R207, michelle.crumpler@fcps.edu

COOPERATIVE OFFICE EDUCATION (Business Internship)
Grades: 10-12
Credit: one or two

Earn and Learn! COE combines a business course with work experience in a business-related field that reflects the student's current career interests. This course is a wonderful way to explore a career field of interest, earn money, and earn school credit--all at the same time! This course taken with another business course could result in three units of credit. Students who successfully complete 396 hours of supervised on-the-job training in a related occupation will earn one credit; students who successfully complete 720 hours will earn two credits.

What kind of hours do I need to work?

Students work an average of 10-15 (or more) hours a week. Those students completing 396 hours will receive 1 credit, 720 hours equals 2 credits.

How can this class help me in the future?

In today's society all students should have the ability to successfully interact with co-workers. This course gives students that opportunity while creating a support system between the employer and internship instructor. It is a wonderful way to truly explore a business field of interest.

Where do I go if I have more questions about this course?

Virginia Muller, D204 Office
virginia.muller@fcps.edu

PRINCIPLES OF BUSINESS
Grades: 9-10
Credit: one

Principles of Business will enable the student to understand how a business works and how it impacts on their daily lives. Students will study the American business system as part of a global economic environment. Topics covered are banking, insurance, financial management, credit, savings and investments, consumer decisions, labor and management relations, checkbook simulation and usage of computers in business and industry. Personal topics include career exploration, a college search, note taking skills and time management. Students will apply the skills they have learned in interactive projects including creating their own business model. In the fourth quarter, they will participate in a business community simulation in which they will run their own business and interact with other business owners in the classroom setting. This capstone activity will provide the student with a realistic experience of how the business community operates. This course is an excellent introductory course for Management.

Describe a typical lesson in this class

Lessons vary everyday. Students learn various business concepts with the use of lectures, PowerPoint presentations, speakers, the high school edition of the Wall Street Journal, group discussion, interactive lessons and hands on projects. Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint are used extensively to help the student do their daily assignments.

What kind/how much homework is required in this class?

This class has little homework with the exception of staying after school to make up work when a student is absent or falls behind.

What kind of materials do you use in this course ?

Students will need a notebook. Students will use Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and the Internet.

Is there any after-school commitment or extracurricular activities associated with this class?

Future Business Leaders of America is the co-curricular organization that students can join. FBLA can give a student the competitive edge through career exploration, self-improvement, and community service opportunities. When you join the Westfield FBLA Chapter, the student also joins the Virginia State FBLA and the National FBLA.

How can this class help me in the future?

The class experience will enable them to gain insight into the business world and develop marketable skills that will assist them in their future academic endeavors. The student will be able to use the knowledge they learned in this class to help them make sound decisions as young adults.

Where do I go if I have more questions about this course?

Sonja Clelland, E207
sonja.clelland@fcps.edu

BUSINESS LAW
Grades: 11-12
Credit: one half

Business Law provides students with opportunities to study the Constitution as it relates to them, explore criminal and tort law as well as the court system, examine business crimes, contracts, focus on consumer rights and responsibilities, examine legal aspects of employment, research careers in the law field, and discuss the impact of laws on travelers and those living abroad. Students will have the opportunity to use the Internet for research and benefit from guest speakers.

Describe a typical lesson in this class.

Lessons vary every day. We will do a lot of projects, group work, and use of the computer labs. We also incorporate a variety of learning techniques-presentations, review games, and role plays.

What kind/how much homework is required in this class?

The majority of the homework is studying for quizzes or tests. On occasion a student will need time outside of class to complete a project, make-up a test, or prepare a speech, but generally little or no homework is assigned.

What kind of materials do you use in this course?

No special materials are used, but we do use the computer lab to complete projects.

Is there any after-school commitment or extracurricular activities associated with this class?

FBLA is a co-curricular activity run through the business department. Meetings take place during the school day and students sign up for any activities they want to participate in.

How can this class help me in the future?

Business law deals with a lot of real world issues; the court systems, trial procedures, civil laws (torts), contracts, among a variety of topics. There is a lot of emphasis placed on critical thinking and logical decision making.

Anything else I should know?

This is an extremely fun class with a lot of class participation. We try to involve students in real-world situations and support the classroom knowledge with current events and guest speakers. The class will take a field trip to the Fairfax County Court House. This trip will help bring the court system alive in the minds of our students and give them the opportunity to experience what goes on in a court room and view a number of different trials. The last few days of the class there is a mock trial with all the students playing roles in the trial (judge, lawyer, defendant, etc.)

Where do I go if I have more questions about this course?

Chris Dilandro Room D205, christopher.dilandro@fcps.edu
Sonja Clelland Room E207, sonja.clelland@fcps.edu

BUSINESS MANAGEMENT
Grades: 11-12
Credit: one half

Instruction includes the basic principles of global competitiveness, economics, finance, marketing, and human resources. Students will develop a business plan for a real or simulated business.

Describe a typical lesson in this class.

Lessons vary every day. We will do a lot of projects, group work, and use of the computer labs. We also incorporate a variety of learning techniques-presentations, review games, and role-plays.

What kind of materials do you use in this course ?

No special materials are used, but we do use the computer lab to complete projects.

Is there any after-school commitment or extracurricular activities associated with this class?

FBLA is a co-curricular activity run through the business department. Meetings take place during the school day and students sign up for any activities they want to participate in.

How can this class help me in the future?

Business management is another ½ year course that backs up business law. This is a great course for anyone interested in going into the field of business. We touch on many topics-marketing, finance, accounting, human relations, etc. This is a great way for students to experience what the business world is all about. Students will also learn about starting their own business.

Anything else I should know?

This is an extremely fun class with a lot of class participation. We try to involve students in real-world situations and support the classroom knowledge with current events and guest speakers.

Where do I go if I have more questions about this course?

Chris Dilandro Room D205, Christopher.dilandro@fcps.edu
Sonja Clelland, Room E202, sonja.clelland@fcps.edu

DESIGN, MULTIMEDIA AND WEB TECHNOLOGIES
Grades: 10-12
Credit: one

Prerequisite: Information Systems or approval of instructor

Student's computer skills are enhanced by the use of image enhancement software, multimedia slideshow presentations, desktop publications, and web page creation. Units of instruction include desktop publishing with design and layout techniques using Adobe InDesign Suite; business presentations with Microsoft PowerPoint; multimedia applications including editing scanned images and capturing video using Adobe Photoshop and GoLive; Internet research; and web page design with Adobe DreamWeaver. Students may take this course in conjunction with Cooperative Office Education (COE).

Describe a typical lesson in this class.

Students' work in this class is extremely hands-on and project oriented. Projects are completed both individually and in groups, depending on the current assignment and level of student knowledge.

Desktop course content includes several main components:
-Multimedia Presentations incorporating video and sound
-Desktop Presentations such as brochures, newsletters, and other business documents using Adobe InDesign
-Web Page Design using Adobe DreamWeaver
-Layout and design techniques
-Photo editing to better enhance presentations using Adobe Photoshop
-Internet is incorporated into all projects

What kind/how much homework is required in this class?

All work is completed on computers during class, therefore, no homework is required in this class.

What kind of materials do you use in this course ?

PowerPoint, Adobe Creative Suite 3 including InDesign, DreamWeaver, PhotoShop, Illustrator, Internet usage and downloading, scanners, digital cameras, and CD burners.

How can this class help me in the future?

All knowledge learned in this class can be utilized in other high school courses that students are taking. The concepts learned also will benefit the student in college courses and future job experiences.

Where do I go if I have more questions about this course?

Nancy McCarthy Room R209, anne.mccarthy@fcps.edu

Prerequisite: None

This course covers consumer skills, planning for expenses, banking transactions, credit and loan functions, insurance, tax functions, budgeting and investing. The student acquires skills in personal money management, wealth management and banking that can be used their entire lives. Students may take this course in conjunction with Cooperative Office Education (COE).

Describe a typical lesson in this class.

Lessons vary everyday. Students learn various financial concepts with the use of lectures, PowerPoint’s, videos, speakers, group discussion, interactive lessons and hands on projects. Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint and the internet are used extensively to help the student do their daily assignments.

What kind/how much homework is required in this class?

No homework assignments are required for this course—it is designed for students to complete projects during class time.

What kind of materials do you use in this course?

Computers are used daily in this course.

Is there any after-school commitment or extracurricular activities associated with this class?

How can this class help me in the future?

All knowledge learned in this class can be utilized in a student’s daily life. This course also serves as a basic business and finance foundation for future studies in business at the college level.

Where do I go if I have more questions about this course?

Sonja Clelland, Room E207, sonjaclelland@fcps.edu
Michelle Crumpler, Room 207, michelle.crumpler@fcps.edu

Prerequisite: Information Systems or equivalent skill/instructor approval.

Web Page Development provides students the opportunity to develop and design sophisticated web pages comparable to sites used by organizations and businesses. Students may take this course in conjunction with Cooperative Office Education (COE).

Describe a typical lesson in this class.

Web page development is extremely hands-on and project oriented. Projects are completed both individually and in groups, depending on the current assignment and level of student knowledge.

The course begins with the history of the Internet, web-related careers including webmaster, and ethical issues pertaining to web sites and the Internet. Students create web pages using HTML, and editors including Dreamweaver, Photoshop, and Flash. Topics such as page content and analysis, writing techniques, layout and design techniques, customer interaction are also discussed. Additionally, students also learn to apply animated and multimedia effects to a web page.

What kind/how much homework is required in this class?

All work is completed on computers during class, therefore, very little homework is required in this course.

What kind of materials do you use in this course?

Adobe/Macromedia CS3, the Internet, scanners, digital cameras, and storage devices (jump drives, memory cards, etc.)

Is there any after-school commitment or extracurricular ctivities associated with this class?

Future Business Leaders of America is available for students to have learning, leadership, service and social activities.

How can this class help me in the future?

Technology is all around us and it is helpful if a student’s computer related skills are kept current. Jobs related to the lessons and concepts taught in this class are some of the hottest and fastest growing.

Where do I go if I have more questions about this course?

Mr. Chris Dilandro, Room D205
christopher.dilandro@fcps.edu

OFFICE ADMINISTRATION
Grades: 9-12
Credit: one

Prerequisite: none

Learn keyboarding here! Students will prepare correspondence and business forms, manage electronic and financial forms, and learn business office procedures. Students may take this course in conjunction with Cooperative Office Education (COE).

Describe a typical lesson in this class.

Office Administration is extremely hands-on and project oriented. Projects are used to improve software skills, communication skills, and to develop job-seeking skills.

What kind/how much homework is required in this class?

All work is completed on computers during class, therefore, no homework is required in this course.

What kind of materials do you use in this course?

Computer, Microsoft Office Professional, the Internet.

Is there any after-school commitment or extracurricular activities associated with this class?

Future Business Leaders of America is available for students to have learning, leadership, service and social activities.

Where do I go if I have more questions about this course?

Virginia Muller, Office D204
virginia.muller@fcps.edu

CRIMINAL JUSTICE 1
Grades: 10-12
Credit: one

This course is designed for students who may be considering a career in criminal justice and those who are curious about the profession. The course exposes students to career opportunities within the criminal justice system and prepares them for entrance into institutions of higher learning.

Specific areas of instruction are: constitutional and criminal law, investigation, security training, public safety communications, emergency response procedures, elements of crimes, search and seizures procedures, arrests procedures, crime prevention, court procedure and police operations. Furthermore, students will learn of the different levels of law enforcement and Corrections at the Federal, State and local level.

Describe a typical lesson in this class.

A typical lesson would cover the many concepts of Law Enforcement and review these concepts in real life criminal scenarios. Additionally, students apply learned concepts to classroom criminal scenarios.

What kind/how much homework is required in this class?

Although some homework is required it is usually limited in nature.

What kind of materials do you use in this course?

No specific materials are needed other than a folder and class specific binder. Materials needed for class such as fingerprint powder and police equipment will be supplied.

Is there any after-school commitment or extracurricular activities associated with this class?

Students are encouraged to participate in the many school extracurricular activities. There are voluntary opportunities for Law Enforcement specific benevolent community events.

How can this class help me in the future?

This course will expose you to a variety of related careers in Law Enforcement.

Anything else I should know?

Many subject matter experts visit our class to discuss their experiences and education in specific areas of Law Enforcement.

Where do I go if I have more questions about this course?

Please see Mr. Bill Gulsby in the basement of the R wing “R003”or email him at wrgulsby@fcps.edu.

MAIN REGISTRATION
REGISTRATION
CALENDAR
GRADUATION
REQUIREMENTS
RISING FRESHMEN
A.P./HONORS

COURSE REQUIREMENTS
ART
ACADEMY
BUSINESS
ENGLISH
ESOL
FOREIGN LANGUAGE
GENERAL
INDUSTRIAL TECH.
MARKETING
MATH
MUSIC
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
SCIENCE
SOCIAL STUDIES
SPECIAL EDUCATION
THEATER