Course List
At New Focus Academy, instruction is teacher-led and individualized to meet each student's unique learning needs. We utilize Edmentum's standards-aligned curriculum as the foundation for instruction, while our teachers adapt lessons, provide targeted support, and create personalized learning experiences that help students succeed.
Upon enrollment, student transcripts are reviewed to ensure appropriate course placement and credit alignment. Students also complete the Edmentum Exact Path Diagnostic Assessment, which helps identify academic strengths, learning gaps, and areas for growth. Teachers use this information to personalize instruction, monitor progress, and help students stay on track toward graduation.
This approach allows students to receive grade-level instruction while building the skills and confidence needed for long-term academic success.
English Language Arts
English Language Arts 9
English Language Arts 9 is a year-long course that develops students’ reading, writing, speaking, and analytical skills through a diverse range of literary and informational texts. Terms 1 and 2 focus on poetry, fiction, and nonfiction, with analysis of themes, techniques, and argument evaluation. Writing assignments include analytical, argumentative, and narrative compositions. Terms 3 and 4 introduce drama, historical documents, speeches, and short fiction, exploring rhetoric, persuasive techniques, and research-based writing. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, textual analysis, and effective communication. Students refine their ability to interpret complex texts, construct arguments, and express ideas clearly, aligned with Utah Core Standards for essential literacy skills.
English Language Arts 10
English Language Arts 10 is a year-long course focused on enhancing students’ analytical reading, writing, and communication skills through diverse literary and informational texts. Terms 1 and 2 emphasize themes, literary elements, word choice, textual evidence, and structured composition. Terms 3 and 4 build on these skills by introducing characterization, literary structure, seminal documents including Shakespeare, rhetorical strategies, and research-based writing, culminating in a research paper. Throughout the course, students refine their ability to interpret texts, construct arguments, and express ideas clearly, aligning with Utah Core Standards to develop essential literacy skills.
English Language Arts 11
English 11 is a year-long course that focuses on American literature from the Revolutionary period to the present day. Students will enhance reading, writing, and analytical skills by studying various literary genres. The curriculum covers creative, descriptive, narrative, expository, and persuasive writing. Students will evaluate historical and cultural significance, literary techniques, and themes. Key objectives include examining the American identity in literature, analyzing the historical influences on literary movements, evaluating literary techniques, exploring themes, comparing works across periods, and investigating the role of language in shaping literature. This course fosters critical thinking and communication while providing a broad understanding of American literary traditions.
English Language Arts 12
English Language Arts 12 examines British literature from the Anglo-Saxon period to the modern era, analyzing key works such as Beowulf, Canterbury Tales, and Shakespeare within their historical and cultural contexts. It explores language evolution and literary forms while enhancing reading, writing, and critical thinking skills through a range of writing exercises and analysis. Students will gain an understanding of British literary history, evaluate diverse literary works, and assess the impact of social and political movements on literature.
Film Literature
Film Literature explores film as literature, analyzing narrative, theme, and style across genres and cultures. Students compare films with written texts, study cinematic techniques, and examine historical and cultural contexts. Aligned with Utah’s ELA Core Standards, the course strengthens skills in critical viewing, analysis, and academic writing through discussion, research, and formal essays.
Middle School English Language Arts
This 7th/8th-grade course develops reading, writing, speaking, and analytical skills through diverse texts. Students analyze literary elements, build comprehension strategies, strengthen writing, participate in evidence-based discussions, evaluate historical contexts, and apply research to support logical arguments.
Science
Biology
Biology aligns with Utah’s SEEd standards and integrates scientific reasoning, engineering applications, and environmental awareness. This course comprehensively explores biological principles through scientific inquiry, experimentation, and engineering applications. Topics include cell structure and function, plant vs. animal cells, organ systems such as the nervous and skeletal systems and their roles in life functions and human reproduction, cell division, genetics, heredity, mitosis, meiosis, DNA, chromosomes, genetic variation, classification, evolution, ecology, energy conservation, photosynthesis, respiration, nutrient cycling, ecosystem dynamics, biodiversity, carrying capacity, and solutions to biodiversity and sustainability issues.
Chemistry
Chemistry aligns with Utah’s SEEd standards and integrates scientific literacy, engineering applications, and real-world problem-solving. This course uses scientific inquiry, experimentation, and engineering to explore the composition, properties, and transformations of matter. Students investigate atomic structure, the periodic table, chemical bonding, including ionic, covalent, polyatomic, and metallic bonds, and chemical reactions such as precipitation, oxidation, and reduction. They also examine energy transformations in chemical processes, including endothermic and exothermic reactions, and chemical equilibrium. The course emphasizes engineering applications and modeling, developing an understanding of chemistry’s role in everyday life.
Earth and Space Science
Earth and Space Science investigates Earth and space science through scientific inquiry, experimentation, and engineering. Students will study Earth’s systems, celestial bodies, and the impact of humans, including climate change and sustainability. Engineering practices will be employed to investigate the role of technology in mitigating weather events and supporting conservation efforts. Emphasis is placed on scientific reasoning and problem-solving to understand Earth’s processes and future. This course aligns with Utah’s SEEd standards.
Physics
Physics is a course that explores the fundamental principles of matter, energy, motion, and forces through scientific inquiry, experimentation, and mathematical analysis. Students will investigate core concepts such as motion, acceleration, Newton’s laws, momentum, energy transformations, waves, electricity, magnetism, and the relationship between forces and interactions. The course emphasizes scientific reasoning, problem-solving, data analysis, and real-world applications of physics concepts.
Middle School Science
Middle School Science is a combined 7th and 8th-grade science course aligned with Utah State Board of Education standards. This integrated science course uses USBE SEEd standards to provide a comprehensive understanding of scientific principles through scientific inquiry, engineering practices, and critical thinking. Students will engage in hands-on investigations to develop scientific literacy, apply engineering design principles, and analyze cause-and-effect relationships in the physical, life, and Earth sciences. Course objectives include developing scientific reasoning, investigating forces and motion, analyzing energy transformations, exploring Earth’s systems, examining ecosystems and biodiversity, understanding genetics and heredity, evaluating human impact on the environment, applying engineering design principles, using models and simulations, and developing scientific communication skills. The course also focuses on civic preparation by developing scientific literacy to engage in informed discussions about environmental, technological, and societal issues, thereby preparing students for civic participation and responsible decision-making.
Electives and Specialized Courses
ACT Preparation
ACT Preparation prepares students for success on the ACT by strengthening core skills in English, mathematics, and science reasoning while reinforcing USBE standards. Students develop rhetorical skills, grammar, and language usage in English while practicing problem-solving in algebra, geometry, statistics, and probability in mathematics. Finally, students build data interpretation, analysis, and critical thinking in science. Through focused lessons, activities, and test-taking strategies, students will gain the knowledge and confidence needed for college readiness and postsecondary success.
Edmentum Ed-Options
Edmentum Ed-Options empowers students to customize learning paths, meet academic goals, and demonstrate mastery of state standards. Students can enroll in a variety of courses, including core academic subjects, electives, credit recovery, and advanced coursework. Each course is taught by a Utah State-licensed teacher with interactive lessons, assessments, and progress monitoring. Students work independently while receiving support from a certified teacher who provides feedback, monitors mastery, and ensures alignment with state standards.
Exact Path
Exact Path offers personalized, standards-aligned instruction in math, writing, and reading using Edmentum Exact Path. Students follow individualized learning paths based on diagnostic assessments and progress monitoring, with instruction tailored to their academic level. This Pass/Fail course awards a “Pass” for consistent engagement, meeting individualized learning goals, and completing required activities.
Foundation of Drawing
Foundation of Drawing explores drawing as a powerful tool for visual communication and personal expression. Students will master fundamental skills and concepts, including line, shape, value, texture, proportion, and perspective. The curriculum integrates observational drawing, imaginative compositions, and an examination of historical and contemporary artists.
Friday Options
Friday Options provides students with opportunities to apply and practice the skills they learn in the therapeutic milieu through structured activities, community service, and clubs. Students rotate through breakout groups that emphasize self-directed learning, collaboration, and real-world skill development, such as typing, current events, and life skills. Meaningful community service projects are available for student participation. The day concludes with clubs such as Fitness, Sign Language, Yearbook, Dungeons & Dragons, Disc Golf, Nature Club, and Cooking Club. Students’ participation receives extra credit, and students needing extra academic help are offered a study hall to make up assignments or improve test results.
Health
Health education empowers students with the knowledge and skills needed to make informed decisions about their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. In this course, students will explore what it means to live a healthy lifestyle and how everyday choices can impact long-term health. Topics include identifying risky behaviors, understanding their consequences, and developing habits that promote safety, wellness, and longevity. Students will examine nutrition, physical activity, personal health, and responsible decision-making to build a foundation for a healthier, more enjoyable life. This course encourages self-awareness and lifelong skills that support overall well-being.
Physical Education
Physical Education focuses on skill development, including locomotor and non-locomotor skills, as well as mastering basic manipulative skills. After practice, students engage in small group games or lead-up games. Competency progresses into manipulative skills such as catching, throwing, and dribbling with hands and feet. Students will apply skills in modified games. Instruction includes an introduction to training principles and activities that can enhance health-related fitness as students pursue personal fitness goals.
Study Hall
Study Hall provides students with a structured environment to complete coursework, reinforce learning, and develop essential skills. Students receive guidance from a certified teacher on time management, organization, goal setting, and effective study strategies. Progress is monitored through goal-setting exercises, completion of assignments, and self-reflection activities.
Social Studies
Middle School Social Studies
Middle School Social Studies is a combined 7th and 8th-grade social studies course that employs an engaging, analytical approach to explore history, geography, civics, and economics. Students examine key historical events, cultural developments, and governmental functions, developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. They investigate how societies evolve, interact, and shape the modern world. By the course end, students will be able to analyze the foundations of democracy, explore the societal impact of world geography, investigate the contemporary influence of significant historical events, examine the role of economic systems and financial literacy, evaluate sources for evidence-based conclusions, and compare diverse cultures and perspectives throughout history. The course fosters historical inquiry, civic engagement, and social awareness, equipping students to participate in informed and responsible ways in their society.
US Government/Civics
US Government/Civics examines the founding principles of American democracy, government structures, and citizen participation. It covers the nation’s founding, the three branches of government, federalism, and citizen roles. The course applies these concepts to foreign, domestic, and economic policy. Students will explore timelines, analyze historical documents, gather evidence, and express viewpoints through essays and presentations on modern U.S. issues.
US History
US History explores major events and ideas shaping the United States from its founding to the present. Students will develop historical thinking skills by analyzing sources and data. The course emphasizes cause-and-effect relationships and examines themes such as nation-building, war, and civil rights, connecting the past to the present. Course objectives include analyzing the founding, continuity, and change in the United States, as well as the Civil War, industrialization, the Progressive Era, World War I and II, the Cold War, the Civil Rights Movement, and modern developments. Students will develop historical literacy for informed civic participation, aligned with USBE standards.
Utah State History/State History
Utah State History/State History is for students who will be receiving a diploma from New Focus Academy. This course will also meet state history requirements for students who receive their home state history course. Utah State History explores Utah’s geography and history from prehistory to the early 20th century, aligning with Utah Core State Standards. Students will study Native cultures, European and Mormon settlements, the fur trade, and Utah’s transition to statehood. The course emphasizes historical thinking skills, such as sourcing and contextualization, by using primary and secondary sources to analyze Utah’s cultural, economic, and political development. Students will conduct independent research and create analyses. Key learning outcomes include explaining Utah’s geography, American Indian cultures, Spanish exploration, the impacts of European contact, the roles of trappers and traders, the effects of migration, 19th-century conflicts, and Utah’s path to statehood.
World Geography
World Geography is the study of where people, places, and resources are located in the world and why they are found there. In this course, students will explore how physical features such as climate, landforms, and natural resources influence human settlement and economic development. Students will examine why communities formed in certain locations, how people interact with their environment, and how geography continues to shape cultures, economies, and daily life around the globe. Through maps, case studies, and real-world examples, learners will build an understanding of the connection between Earth’s features and human activity.
World History
World History examines major events and ideas shaping human civilization from ancient times to the present. Students develop historical thinking skills through the analysis of sources and consideration of multiple perspectives. The course emphasizes cause-and-effect relationships, exploring themes like exploration, revolution, industrialization, and globalization. Objectives include assessing sources, examining historical periods, analyzing revolutions and industrialization, understanding imperialism and wars, and evaluating globalization. Students develop historical literacy for informed discussions and civic participation, aligning with Utah State Board of Education World History standards.
Career, Technical, and Life Skills
Digital Literacy
Digital Literacy is a foundation to the digital world that provides a broad understanding of key applications, computing fundamentals, and living online. Students will have opportunities to use technology and develop skills that promote creativity, critical thinking, productivity, and collaboration in the classroom and day-to-day life. This includes the study of appropriate and inappropriate use of AI.
Essential Career Skills
Essential Career Skills is a one-semester course that supports students in developing career readiness and transition skills. Students develop foundational workplace competencies, including a positive work ethic, self-advocacy, communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management. The course emphasizes ethical behavior, workplace safety, diversity awareness, and customer service. Students also develop functional academic and technology skills by practicing workplace reading, writing, math, information literacy, and responsible internet use. Through structured activities and applied assignments, students strengthen self-direction, career exploration, and lifelong learning skills necessary for postsecondary education, employment, and independent living.
Exploring College and Career
Exploring College and Career is a comprehensive course designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and mindset necessary for success in postsecondary education and the modern workforce. Through self-assessments, goal-setting, and career cluster explorations, students will develop a personalized education and career plan. Key topics include resume writing, financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and professional skills such as communication, leadership, and ethics. Students will also engage with durable skills like creativity and a growth mindset to prepare for success in today’s evolving job market.
Financial Literacy
Financial Literacy, also known as General Financial Literacy, encompasses standards essential to the development of basic financial and economic reasoning. Resource management and decision-making skills will be emphasized as students explore strategies on how to manage and protect the money they earn, keep, and spend. The goal of General Financial Literacy is to help students become financially responsible and conscientious members of society as they contribute to their own financial well-being. Students should feel empowered to achieve financial success.
Work-Based Learning
Work-Based Learning is a Career and Technical Education course that allows students to earn credit through supervised employment aligned with their College and Career Readiness goals. Students may earn .025 credit for every 15 documented work hours, with 60 hours equaling 1 credit, with verified paystubs or signed supervisor work logs. Credit is awarded as Pass/Fail by default; however, students may elect to receive a letter grade by completing a final reflection, portfolio artifact, or presentation and receiving a satisfactory employer evaluation. All placements must be school-approved and supervised by the CTE teacher.
Mathematics
Algebra 1
Algebra 1 is a year-long course that develops mathematical reasoning and problem-solving through linear, quadratic, and exponential relationships. Terms 1 and 2 cover linear equations, inequalities, functions, graphing, transformations, and data representation, emphasizing pattern analysis, solving systems, and real-world interpretation. Terms 3 and 4 introduce polynomials, quadratic functions, including operations, graphing, and solving, and exponential models for prediction and problem-solving, including comparisons and systems involving quadratic and exponential equations. The course aims to strengthen algebraic reasoning, data analysis, and the application of mathematical concepts.
Algebra 2
Algebra 2 is a year-long course that enhances students’ understanding of advanced mathematics and problem-solving. Terms 1 and 2 cover polynomial, radical, and rational functions, including complex numbers and inverse functions, with real-world modeling. Terms 3 and 4 expand to exponential and logarithmic equations, sequences, trigonometry, and statistics. Students will analyze functions, create graphs, and apply mathematical reasoning, using technology to aid learning and preparing them for advanced math.
Geometry
Geometry explores points, lines, angles, and shapes through logical reasoning. Terms 1 and 2 cover foundational concepts, coordinate geometry, and transformations to establish polygon congruence and similarity. Students will prove theorems, perform constructions, and apply geometry to real-world problems. Terms 3 and 4 focus on right triangles, trigonometry, circle properties, and probability applications. Students will also explore surface area, volume, and coordinate equations for practical problem-solving. By course end, students will master proving theorems, transformations, constructions, trigonometry, and probability-based problem-solving.
Middle School Math
Middle School Math is a 7th/8th-grade math course that develops foundational skills for advanced math through problem-solving and modeling. Key topics include algebra, geometry, statistics, and proportional reasoning applied to real-world situations. Students will use ratios, proportions, rational numbers, operations with fractions, decimals, and integers. They will solve algebraic equations, explore geometry, including transformations and the Pythagorean Theorem, analyze data with statistics and probability, and engage in mathematical reasoning. The course emphasizes critical reasoning and collaboration and prepares students for future math studies.