Academic Information
Ames High School is well known in Iowa and the nation. It is fully accredited by the Iowa Department of Education.
The school is on a semi-block schedule with students attending each class for over 3.5 hours per week. Students are encouraged to take five or six academic classes per semester, with physical education being required. Instrumental and vocal music programs meet during the school day and are compatible with a student’s curriculum choices.
Grade Point Computation
Grade point average is based on cumulative grade point averages for grades 9-12. Marks for all subjects where a letter grade is given are used in computing the cumulative GPA each semester. There is no “weighting” of grades.
The following grading scale is used:
- A = 4 quality points
- B = 3 quality points
- C = 2 quality points
- D = 1 quality point
- F = 0 quality points
4.0 is the highest achievable GPA. Ames High is recognized as an academically competitive environment with many high achieving students. Our data indicates approximately 10% of Ames High students score in the top 1% on the ITED and PLAN, and nearly 40% of our students score in the top 10% on these same standardized exams. Of the 387 students in the class of 2022, 14 were named national merit finalist, semifinalist, or commended scholar. Therefore, Ames High School does not determine class rank. If additional information is needed about a student’s high school record while still a student, contact your Guidance Counselor. If you have graduated, contact the Ames High Registrar.
Advanced Placement and Honors Courses
Advanced Placement courses are offered in Calculus AB, Physics, Chemistry, U.S. History, European History, U.S. Government, Biology, Literature/Composition, Language/ Composition and Psychology.
Honors courses are in World Studies. An Extended Learning Program is available for talented and gifted students. ELP offers differentiation opportunities that enhance the learning of all students.
Last year students took a total of 70 classes at Iowa State University and another 649 through dual enrollment classes at Ames High School online and the Story County Consortium Career Academy.
Academic Departments
Alternative Learning Program (ALP)
Ames High School’s Alternative Learning Program assists students whose academic performance is not consistent with measured abilities in content areas with instructional support, counseling, guided independent study courses and other academic credit opportunities.
At Ames High School, ALP provides several program options designed to meet the educational needs of students. Through the use of a variety of learning strategies, designed to accommodate individual needs, an academic program equivalent to that provided by the regular curriculum is available. A Personal Education Plan (PEP) is developed to accommodate each students’ individualized needs. The criteria used for students referred to ALP includes, but is not limited to:
- excessive absences
- low grades
- repeated disciplinary referrals
Students meeting two of the above criteria will receive appropriate services as designated by their PEP; which may include progress monitoring, academic support, or counseling. Interested students should contact their counselor for information on how this program can assist them.
Subjects Include:
- Algebra 1
- Algebra 2
- Credit Recovery
- English 9
- English 10
- English 11
- English 12
- Geometry
- Government
- Independent Studies
- Sheltered Algebra 1
- Social-Emotional Learning
- US History
- World Studies
Art Education
Art education guides students as they investigate and develop an increasing visual awareness and sensitivity to surroundings, cultural and historical heritages, memory, and imagination. Teachers help them express ideas creatively, fostering reflective thinking, and developing disciplined skills to create artworks involving multiple possibilities.
Course
Grade
Foundations 2-Dimensional Art
9-12
Foundations 3-Dimensional Art
9-12
Advanced 3-Dimensional Art
9-12
Drawing 1
9-12
Drawing 2, 3, 4
10-12
Painting 1
9-12
Painting 2 ,3, 4
10-12
Graphic Design 1
9-12
Graphic Design 2, 3, 4
10-12
Printmaking 1
9-12
Printmaking 2, 3, 4
10-12
Ceramics 1
9-12
Ceramics 2, 3, 4
10-12
Jewelry 1
9-12
Jewelry 2, 3, 4
10-12
Photography 1
9-10
Photography 2, 3, 4
10-12
4th Dimensional Multi-Media 1
9-12
4th Dimensional Multi-Media 2, 3, 4
10-12
*denotes year long courses; all others are a semester course
Career and Technical Education
Engaging students to develop essential agricultural, business and financial concepts and skills for citizenship, career, and lifelong learning, as well as, technical and essential skills through rigorous classroom and laboratory experiences to meet the demands of post-secondary education and the competitive workforce.
BUSINESS EDUCATION
Course
Grade
*Accounting
10-12
*Entrepreneurship
10-12
Intro to Business
9-10
Personal Finance
10-12
Marketing and Selling
9-12
Business Engagement Collaborative
11-12
Microsoft Certification
9-12
HUMAN SERVICES
Course
Grade
Intro to Child Development
9-12
Child Development
10-12
Intro to Human Services
9-12
Child Health Safety and Nutrition
9-12
Early Childhood Education
10-12
AGRICULTURE
Course
Grade
Introduction to Agriscience
9-12
Intro to Ag, Food, & Natural Resources
9-12
Nature Resources
9-12
Animal Sciences
10-12
Advanced Animal Science
11-12
Plant Science
10-12
Advanced Plant Science
11-12
Agricultural Business Foundation
11-12
Food, Science & Safety
9-12
INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY
Course
Grade
Machine Safety & Operation
9-12
*Project Design & Construction 1
10-12
*Project Design & Construction 2
11-12
Computer Drafting & Design I
9-12
Computer Drafting & Design II
10-12
*Architectural CADD
11-12
Multiple Occupation
12
Computer Applications & Entrepreneurialism
9-12
*denotes year long courses; all others are a semester course
Extended Learning Program (ELP)
The extended learning program (ELP) provides curriculum for talented and gifted students as an integral part of the K-12 experience that is differentiated in process, pace, depth, organization, and expected outcomes.
Ames High School ELP “serves students who require instruction and educational services commensurate with their abilities and beyond those provided by the regular school program.” (Iowa Code 257.44).
Students in the AHS ELP program demonstrate achievement or potential ability in the following areas:
- general intellectual ability
- creative thinking
- leadership ability
- visual and performing arts ability
- specific ability aptitude
Opportunities for ELP students at AHS include:
- Freshman Seminar
- Sophomore Study Center
- Independent Study
- Mentorships and Internships
- Acceleration
- Post-Secondary Enrollment Options
Extended Learning Program Forms
English Learners (EL)
Direct services are provided for English Learners (EL) to support academic achievement and English language development. Read more about district EL services.
Course
Grade
Newcomers
9-12
Beginners
9-12
Intermediate
9-12
English Language Development
9-12
Sheltered U.S. History
9-12
Sheltered World Studies
9-12
Sheltered Algebra 1
9-12
Language Arts
Language Arts engages students in the study of the arts of language through a combination of reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Throughout high school students take a combination of competition and literature courses.
Course
Grade
*English 9
9
American Lit: Columbus – Present
10
Basic Composition
10
Creative Writing
10
Mythology, Fantasy, Folklore
10
Drama
9-12
Introduction to Journalism
10-12
Independent Lit. Survey
10-12
Speech I
10-12
Activism & Social Justice
11-12
Advanced Creative Writing
11-12
Composition I
11-12
Composition II
11-12
Horror Literature
11-12
Multimedia Composition
11-12
Resist. Movements in Am. History
11-12
Science-Fiction Literature
11-12
Shakespeare
11-12
World Literature
11-12
*AP Language & Composition
11-12
Advanced Journalism
11-12
*AP Literature & Composition
11-12
*SPIRIT (Yearbook)
11-12
*denotes year long courses; all others are a semester course
Mathematics
The Math Department helps students learn and understand mathematical concepts and skills through hands-on activities and applicable learning.
Course
Grade
*Algebra I
9
*Geometry
9-12
*Financial Algebra
11-12
*Algebra ll
11-12
*Advanced Algebra II
11-12
*Pre-Calculus
11-12
Statistics
11-12
*AP Calculus AB
12
Computer Science
10-12
*denotes year long courses; all others are a semester course
Music
General, vocal, and instrumental music provide experiences that are meaningful, enjoyable, and enhance all learning. Participation in the music program develops habits of the mind, including creative thinking, critical thinking, and self-regulation.
Course
Grade
*Freshmen Choir
9
*Concert Choir
10-12
*Concert Chorale
11-12
*Freshman Band
9
*Concert Band
10-12
*Freshman Orchestra
9
*Orchestra
9-12
*denotes year long courses; all others are a semester course
Physical Education/Health
Through physical and health education, we believe physical, mental and emotional health are interconnected. It is important to find movement activities that you enjoy. We each have different abilities, and everyone can find enjoyment as they continue to practice for skill development and personal wellness.
Students must provide their own athletic clothing for P.E.
Course
Grade
Move PE
9-12
Weights 1
9-12
Weights 2
9-12
Pass/Fail Grading
Iowa Law requires students to take Physical Education each semester in order to graduate. Unexcused Absences or failing to dress for class will result in a failing grade until the student completes P.E. make-up.
Mandatory CPR Instruction
Iowa Law requires students to take Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation in P.E. class in order to graduate. Ames High School classes require students to meet the American Red Cross standards.
Science
We engage students in an understanding of science as inquiry, using technology and mathematics to improve investigations and communications using logic and evidence to recognize and analyze alternative explanations and models that will serve them for a lifetime of learning.
Course
Grade
*Earth Science
9
*Pre AP Science
9-10
*Biology
10-12
*AP Biology
10-12
Physics/Adv. Physics
11-12
*AP Physics B
11-12
Chemistry/Adv. Chemistry
11-12
*AP Chemistry
11-12
*Health Concepts of Biology
10-12
Health 10
10
Adv. Environmental Science
11-12
*denotes year long courses; all others are a semester course
Social Studies
Our Social Studies Department engages students with historical awareness and cultural perspectives and as a result, students will be able to find their place in the traditions of history.
Course
Grade
*World Studies
9
*Honors World Studies
9
*U.S. History
10
*AP U.S. History
10-12
United States Government
12
AP U.S. Government
12
Western Civilization 1
10-12
Western Civilization 2
10-12
*AP European History
10-12
World Issues
11-12
Non-Western World
11-12
Economics
11-12
Sociology
11-12
*denotes year long courses; all others are a semester course
Special Education
A continuum of special education services are provided in general education and special education classrooms. Services for entitled students are determined by the needs of the individual students and provided in the least restrictive environment.
District Special Education Information
Subject include:
- Essential Literacy
- Essential Math
- Essential Science
- Essential Social Skills
- Essential Social Studies
- Literacy Lab
- Math Lab
World Languages
World languages not only serves as another way of communicating, but also as a means for students to better prepare themselves to participate as productive global citizens.
Course
Grade
*French I
9-12
*French II, III, IV
10-12
*German I
9-12
*German II, III, IV
10-12
*Spanish I
9-12
*Spanish II, III, IV
10-12
*denotes year long courses; all others are a semester course
Alternative Learning Program (ALP)
Ames High School’s Alternative Learning Program assists students whose academic performance is not consistent with measured abilities in content areas with instructional support, counseling, guided independent study courses and other academic credit opportunities.
At Ames High School, ALP provides several program options designed to meet the educational needs of students. Through the use of a variety of learning strategies, designed to accommodate individual needs, an academic program equivalent to that provided by the regular curriculum is available. A Personal Education Plan (PEP) is developed to accommodate each students’ individualized needs. The criteria used for students referred to ALP includes, but is not limited to:
- excessive absences
- low grades
- repeated disciplinary referrals
Students meeting two of the above criteria will receive appropriate services as designated by their PEP; which may include progress monitoring, academic support, or counseling. Interested students should contact their counselor for information on how this program can assist them.
Subjects Include:
- Algebra 1
- Algebra 2
- Credit Recovery
- English 9
- English 10
- English 11
- English 12
- Geometry
- Government
- Independent Studies
- Sheltered Algebra 1
- Social-Emotional Learning
- US History
- World Studies
Art Education
Art education guides students as they investigate and develop an increasing visual awareness and sensitivity to surroundings, cultural and historical heritages, memory, and imagination. Teachers help them express ideas creatively, fostering reflective thinking, and developing disciplined skills to create artworks involving multiple possibilities.
| Course | Grade |
| Foundations 2-Dimensional Art | 9-12 |
| Foundations 3-Dimensional Art | 9-12 |
| Advanced 3-Dimensional Art | 9-12 |
| Drawing 1 | 9-12 |
| Drawing 2, 3, 4 | 10-12 |
| Painting 1 | 9-12 |
| Painting 2 ,3, 4 | 10-12 |
| Graphic Design 1 | 9-12 |
| Graphic Design 2, 3, 4 | 10-12 |
| Printmaking 1 | 9-12 |
| Printmaking 2, 3, 4 | 10-12 |
| Ceramics 1 | 9-12 |
| Ceramics 2, 3, 4 | 10-12 |
| Jewelry 1 | 9-12 |
| Jewelry 2, 3, 4 | 10-12 |
| Photography 1 | 9-10 |
| Photography 2, 3, 4 | 10-12 |
| 4th Dimensional Multi-Media 1 | 9-12 |
| 4th Dimensional Multi-Media 2, 3, 4 | 10-12 |
*denotes year long courses; all others are a semester course
Career and Technical Education
Engaging students to develop essential agricultural, business and financial concepts and skills for citizenship, career, and lifelong learning, as well as, technical and essential skills through rigorous classroom and laboratory experiences to meet the demands of post-secondary education and the competitive workforce.
BUSINESS EDUCATION
| Course | Grade |
| *Accounting | 10-12 |
| *Entrepreneurship | 10-12 |
| Intro to Business | 9-10 |
| Personal Finance | 10-12 |
| Marketing and Selling | 9-12 |
| Business Engagement Collaborative | 11-12 |
| Microsoft Certification | 9-12 |
HUMAN SERVICES
| Course | Grade |
| Intro to Child Development | 9-12 |
| Child Development | 10-12 |
| Intro to Human Services | 9-12 |
| Child Health Safety and Nutrition | 9-12 |
| Early Childhood Education | 10-12 |
AGRICULTURE
| Course | Grade |
| Introduction to Agriscience | 9-12 |
| Intro to Ag, Food, & Natural Resources | 9-12 |
| Nature Resources | 9-12 |
| Animal Sciences | 10-12 |
| Advanced Animal Science | 11-12 |
| Plant Science | 10-12 |
| Advanced Plant Science | 11-12 |
| Agricultural Business Foundation | 11-12 |
| Food, Science & Safety | 9-12 |
INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY
| Course | Grade |
| Machine Safety & Operation | 9-12 |
| *Project Design & Construction 1 | 10-12 |
| *Project Design & Construction 2 | 11-12 |
| Computer Drafting & Design I | 9-12 |
| Computer Drafting & Design II | 10-12 |
| *Architectural CADD | 11-12 |
| Multiple Occupation | 12 |
| Computer Applications & Entrepreneurialism | 9-12 |
*denotes year long courses; all others are a semester course
Extended Learning Program (ELP)
The extended learning program (ELP) provides curriculum for talented and gifted students as an integral part of the K-12 experience that is differentiated in process, pace, depth, organization, and expected outcomes.
Ames High School ELP “serves students who require instruction and educational services commensurate with their abilities and beyond those provided by the regular school program.” (Iowa Code 257.44).
Students in the AHS ELP program demonstrate achievement or potential ability in the following areas:
- general intellectual ability
- creative thinking
- leadership ability
- visual and performing arts ability
- specific ability aptitude
Opportunities for ELP students at AHS include:
- Freshman Seminar
- Sophomore Study Center
- Independent Study
- Mentorships and Internships
- Acceleration
- Post-Secondary Enrollment Options
Extended Learning Program Forms
English Learners (EL)
Direct services are provided for English Learners (EL) to support academic achievement and English language development. Read more about district EL services.
| Course | Grade |
| Newcomers | 9-12 |
| Beginners | 9-12 |
| Intermediate | 9-12 |
| English Language Development | 9-12 |
| Sheltered U.S. History | 9-12 |
| Sheltered World Studies | 9-12 |
| Sheltered Algebra 1 | 9-12 |
Language Arts
Language Arts engages students in the study of the arts of language through a combination of reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Throughout high school students take a combination of competition and literature courses.
| Course | Grade |
| *English 9 | 9 |
| American Lit: Columbus – Present | 10 |
| Basic Composition | 10 |
| Creative Writing | 10 |
| Mythology, Fantasy, Folklore | 10 |
| Drama | 9-12 |
| Introduction to Journalism | 10-12 |
| Independent Lit. Survey | 10-12 |
| Speech I | 10-12 |
| Activism & Social Justice | 11-12 |
| Advanced Creative Writing | 11-12 |
| Composition I | 11-12 |
| Composition II | 11-12 |
| Horror Literature | 11-12 |
| Multimedia Composition | 11-12 |
| Resist. Movements in Am. History | 11-12 |
| Science-Fiction Literature | 11-12 |
| Shakespeare | 11-12 |
| World Literature | 11-12 |
| *AP Language & Composition | 11-12 |
| Advanced Journalism | 11-12 |
| *AP Literature & Composition | 11-12 |
| *SPIRIT (Yearbook) | 11-12 |
*denotes year long courses; all others are a semester course
Mathematics
The Math Department helps students learn and understand mathematical concepts and skills through hands-on activities and applicable learning.
| Course | Grade |
| *Algebra I | 9 |
| *Geometry | 9-12 |
| *Financial Algebra | 11-12 |
| *Algebra ll | 11-12 |
| *Advanced Algebra II | 11-12 |
| *Pre-Calculus | 11-12 |
| Statistics | 11-12 |
| *AP Calculus AB | 12 |
| Computer Science | 10-12 |
*denotes year long courses; all others are a semester course
Music
General, vocal, and instrumental music provide experiences that are meaningful, enjoyable, and enhance all learning. Participation in the music program develops habits of the mind, including creative thinking, critical thinking, and self-regulation.
| Course | Grade |
| *Freshmen Choir | 9 |
| *Concert Choir | 10-12 |
| *Concert Chorale | 11-12 |
| *Freshman Band | 9 |
| *Concert Band | 10-12 |
| *Freshman Orchestra | 9 |
| *Orchestra | 9-12 |
*denotes year long courses; all others are a semester course
Physical Education/Health
Through physical and health education, we believe physical, mental and emotional health are interconnected. It is important to find movement activities that you enjoy. We each have different abilities, and everyone can find enjoyment as they continue to practice for skill development and personal wellness.
Students must provide their own athletic clothing for P.E.
| Course | Grade |
| Move PE | 9-12 |
| Weights 1 | 9-12 |
| Weights 2 | 9-12 |
Pass/Fail Grading
Iowa Law requires students to take Physical Education each semester in order to graduate. Unexcused Absences or failing to dress for class will result in a failing grade until the student completes P.E. make-up.
Mandatory CPR Instruction
Iowa Law requires students to take Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation in P.E. class in order to graduate. Ames High School classes require students to meet the American Red Cross standards.
Science
We engage students in an understanding of science as inquiry, using technology and mathematics to improve investigations and communications using logic and evidence to recognize and analyze alternative explanations and models that will serve them for a lifetime of learning.
| Course | Grade |
| *Earth Science | 9 |
| *Pre AP Science | 9-10 |
| *Biology | 10-12 |
| *AP Biology | 10-12 |
| Physics/Adv. Physics | 11-12 |
| *AP Physics B | 11-12 |
| Chemistry/Adv. Chemistry | 11-12 |
| *AP Chemistry | 11-12 |
| *Health Concepts of Biology | 10-12 |
| Health 10 | 10 |
| Adv. Environmental Science | 11-12 |
*denotes year long courses; all others are a semester course
Social Studies
Our Social Studies Department engages students with historical awareness and cultural perspectives and as a result, students will be able to find their place in the traditions of history.
| Course | Grade |
| *World Studies | 9 |
| *Honors World Studies | 9 |
| *U.S. History | 10 |
| *AP U.S. History | 10-12 |
| United States Government | 12 |
| AP U.S. Government | 12 |
| Western Civilization 1 | 10-12 |
| Western Civilization 2 | 10-12 |
| *AP European History | 10-12 |
| World Issues | 11-12 |
| Non-Western World | 11-12 |
| Economics | 11-12 |
| Sociology | 11-12 |
*denotes year long courses; all others are a semester course
Special Education
A continuum of special education services are provided in general education and special education classrooms. Services for entitled students are determined by the needs of the individual students and provided in the least restrictive environment.
District Special Education Information
Subject include:
- Essential Literacy
- Essential Math
- Essential Science
- Essential Social Skills
- Essential Social Studies
- Literacy Lab
- Math Lab
World Languages
World languages not only serves as another way of communicating, but also as a means for students to better prepare themselves to participate as productive global citizens.
| Course | Grade |
| *French I | 9-12 |
| *French II, III, IV | 10-12 |
| *German I | 9-12 |
| *German II, III, IV | 10-12 |
| *Spanish I | 9-12 |
| *Spanish II, III, IV | 10-12 |
*denotes year long courses; all others are a semester course