Tennessee Graduation Requirements
Minimum Required Credits = 22
• Math: 4 credits
Algebra I
Geometry
Algebra II
Higher Level Math Course
• English: 4 credits
English I
English II
English III
English IV
• Science: 3 credits
Lab Science
Biology
Chemistry or Physics
• Social Studies: 3 credits
World History & Geography
US History & Geography
Economics
US Government
• Physical Education and Wellness: 1.5 credits
Lifetime Wellness
Physical Education
• Personal Finance: 0.5 credits
• Foreign Language: 2 credits of the same foreign language (May be waived for students not going to a university to expand and enhance the elective focus)
• Fine Arts: 1 credit
(May be waived for students not going to a university to expand and enhance the elective focus)
• Elective Focus: 3 credits in one focus area
• ACT/SAT Exam: To receive a regular high school diploma, all students enrolled in a Tennessee public school during their eleventh-grade year must take either the ACT or SAT at least once by February of their twelfth-grade year.
Freedom Preparatory Academy High School
Graduation Requirements
• Math: 4 credits
Algebra I
Geometry
Algebra II
Higher Level Math Course Statistics, AP PreCalculus, AP Calculus, Dual Enrollment*
• English: 4 credits
English I Honors, Standard
English II Pre-AP Seminar, Standard
English III AP Language, Standard
English IV Dual Enrollment, Standard
• Science: 3 credits
Biology
Chemistry
Physics
Anatomy & Physiology** OR AP Environmental Science**
• Social Studies: 3 credits
African American History AP African American History
World History & Geography
US History & Geography
Economics
US Government
• Physical Education and Wellness: 1.5 credits
Lifetime Wellness
Physical Education I
• Personal Finance: 0.5 credits
• Foreign Language: 2 credits of the same foreign language
Spanish I
Spanish II Honors, Standard
Spanish III**
• Fine Arts: 1 credit
Choir
Music Theater
Digital Arts
AP Art Drawing
• Elective Focus: 3 credits in one focus area
• ACT/SAT Exam: Spring of Junior Year, Fall of Senior Year
● ASVAB: Fall of Junior and Senior Year
** You need either Spanish 3, Anatomy & Physiology, or AP Environmental Science
I’VE GOT A PLAN FOUR YEAR PORTFOLIO
[REQUIRED FOR ALL STUDENTS]
FRESHMAN YEAR: LAYING THE FOUNDATION
● 1 FALL SATURDAY FIELD LESSON/ SPRING FIELD LESSON
● PRE ACT 9
● SUMMER OPPORTUNITY
● 25 HOURS OF COMMUNITY SERVICE
SOPHOMORE YEAR: BUILDING THE FOUNDATION
● 1 FALL SATURDAY FIELD LESSON/ SPRING FIELD LESSON
● 1 CAREER EXPLORATION FIELD LESSON
● PRE ACT 10
● ACADEMIC RESUME
● SUMMER OPPORTUNITY
● 25 HOURS COMMUNITY SERVICE
JUNIOR YEAR: STAY ON TRACK
● ACT
● 1 FALL SATURDAY FIELD LESSON/ SPRING FIELD LESSON
● TRANSCRIPT AUDIT
● PERSONAL ESSAY [DRAFT]
● COLLEGE WISH LIST
● SUMMER INTERNSHIP/OPPORTUNITY
● 25 HOURS OF COMMUNITY SERVICE
SENIOR YEAR: TAKING ACTION AND FINISHING STRONG
● FALL: ACT
● FALL: COLLEGE APPLICATIONS [15 MINIMUM]
● FALL: SELECTIVE SERVICE REGISTRATION [ALL MALE BORN STUDENTS]
● FALL: PERSONAL STATEMENTS
● FALL/SPRING: SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS [ GATES/QUEST BRIDGE/ HSF/THURGOOD MARSHALL]
● FALL: TN ACHIEVES [TN PROMISE/HOPE/UT PROMISE/ASPIRE]
● SPRING: FREE APPLICATION FOR FREE STUDENT AID “FAFSA’
● SPRING: FINALIZE 4 YEAR PLAN
● SPRING: PREPARE TRANSITION FOR AFTER HIGH SCHOOL
● 25 HOURS OF COMMUNITY SERVICE [100 HOURS COMPLETED BY GRADUATION]
Graduating with Freedom Preparatory
High School Honors or Distinction
Students who are members of the Honors Academy can graduate from Freedom Preparatory Academy with an Honors Diploma if they meet the graduation requirements identified as well as the following requirements:
● Earning 10 total Honors Units: Honors/ Semester Dual Enrollment courses= 1 unit;
● Year Long Advanced Placement (AP) courses = 1.5 units
● Maintain an unweighted 3.5 GPA beginning with the Class of 2025
● Complete 25 service hours each year
● Complete a Project of Impact during the Senior Year
● ACT SuperScore of 24 or higher
● 8th Grade Only: Letter of recommendation from a core teacher
Students can graduate with State Honors by scoring at or above the readiness benchmarks on all the subject areas of the ACT.
English = 18
Math = 22
Reading = 22
Science = 23
Students recognized as graduating with State Distinction will have a seal placed on their diploma. The requirements for graduating with State Distinction include attaining a 3.0 unweighted or better average and completing one of the following:
1. Earn a national and/or state-recognized industry certification
2. Participate in at least one (1) of the Governor’s Schools
3. Participate in one (1) of the state’s All-State musical organizations
4. Be selected as a National Merit Finalist or Semifinalist
5. Attain a score of thirty-one (31) or higher composite score on the ACT or SAT equivalent
6. Attain a score of three (3) or higher on at least two (2) AP exams
7. Earn twelve (12) or more semester hours of postsecondary credits
Requirements for Admission into Honors/AP Courses
• Students must have scored at or above the 75th percentile in the subject area for which they are applying (English, Math, Science, Social Studies) on the most recently available TCAP or other nationally normed achievement test or on a comparable subtests on the most recently available Explore, PLAN, PSAT, or ACT test.
• Students must have satisfactory or above conduct grades (B- or higher required in all previous years courses)
• Students may not have more than 15 combined absences and/or tardies.
• To remain in honors/AP classes in subsequent school years, students must maintain an average of 80 or above in each subject per semester
• Students desiring to transition from a 9th grade standard class to a 10th grade honors class must meet the same initial requirements. Students may not transition from standard to honors after their sophomore year.
• Students who sign up for honors/AP level classes and meet the approval requirements but fail to complete the required summer work will not be dropped from the class.
ACADEMIC GRADING
GPA is calculated only on FPA courses. Honors, AP, and Dual Enrolled Courses are weighted per standard metrics aligned to course rigor.
English
ENGLISH I 1 Credit/Year Long
Prerequisite(s): None
A good understanding of basic grammar skills is emphasized, including vocabulary, spelling, punctuation, parts of speech, parts of sentences, and most forms of language usage. Composition of sentences and paragraphs, as well as creative writing, are stressed and time is devoted to the understanding and appreciation of literature, such as poetry, essays, short stories, notification novels, and drama.
ENGLISH I HONORS 1 Credit/Year Long
Prerequisite(s): Honors contract
The higher standards for English 9 Honors require an advanced level of entry skills in grammar, composition, and understanding literature. These three areas of language are expanded and enriched to challenge high-ability students to achieve more creativity and independence. (Specified summer reading required)
ENGLISH II 1 Credit/Year Long
Prerequisites: English I
English II is a survey course in World literature. In addition, students are given a concentrated course in composition, research writing, usage, spelling, and mechanics.
Course Title:
HONNORS ENGLISH II 1 Credit/Year Long
Prerequisites: Honors English I, Honors contract
Honors English II is designed to meet the needs of students who have mastered writing and grammar skills at grade level and above. Great emphasis is placed on vocabulary development, composition, and interpretation of world literature. Students will learn to write a documented research paper Outside reading is required. (Summer work is required).
ENGLISH III 1 Credit/Year Long
Prerequisites: English II
English III is a survey course in American Literature including concentration on grammatical and writing skills of grade level. Great emphasis is placed upon persuasive composition, vocabulary, and interpretation of American literature. A research paper and outside reading are required in this course.
AP ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND COMPOSITION 1 Credit/Year Long
Prerequisites: Honors English I, Honors English II, AP contract signed by parent and student
AP English Language and Composition is an introductory college-level composition course. Students cultivate their understanding of writing and rhetorical arguments through reading, analyzing, and writing texts as they explore topics like rhetorical situation, claims and evidence, reasoning and organization, and style.
ENGLISH IV 1 Credit/Year Long
Prerequisites: English I, II, III
This course presents British literature from early writing through modern literature. There is emphasis on composition, vocabulary development, and research paper writing. Students are held responsible for all basic grammar skills taught in grade 9-11.
Math
Mathematics Requirements: Four credits are required. Students must take a full year of Mathematics at each grade level.
ALGEBRA 1 1 Credit/Year Long
Prerequisite(s): None
Algebra 1 focuses on understanding linear and quadratic functions, rational expressions, exponents, radicals, and polynomials. The official calculator for this course is the TI-84 Plus.
ALGEBRA 1 HONORS 1 Credit/Year Long
Prerequisite(s):
Honors contract Algebra 1 Honors is designed for students who have excelled in 8th-grade math and need additional rigor added to the standard Algebra 1 curriculum. The official calculator for this course is the TI-84 Plus.
GEOMETRY 1 Credit / Year Long
Prerequisite(s): Algebra I
Geometry investigates mathematics using inductive and deductive reasoning. Geometric problems include proofs, properties of geometric figures, and area and volume formulas.
GEOMETRY HONORS 1 Credit / Year Long
Prerequisite(s): Recommended from Algebra I course w Honors Contract signed by parent and student
Geometry Honors is designed for the advanced math student with emphasis on critical thinking and analytical skills. Problem solving and synthesis of materials are areas where students will be challenged.
ALGEBRA II
Prerequisite(s): Algebra I & Geometry
This course is a continuation of Algebra I. Topics are treated with more detail and depth. In addition, the content includes a study of number systems, relations and functions, matrices, exponents and logarithms, quadratic relations, systems of equations and inequalities, probability and statistics, and rational expressions.
ALGEBRA II HONORS 1 Credit / Year Long
Prerequisite(s): Recommended from Geometry course w Honors Contract signed by parent and student
Algebra II Honors is for students who have mastered Algebra I and Geometry skills and desire a more challenging approach to Algebra II. Students should plan to take Pre-Calculus and AP Calculus in high school.
STATISTICS
1 Credit / Year Long
Prerequisite(s): ALGEBRA I, ALGEBRA II, GEOMETRY
This course in hands-on statistics provides a basic understanding of descriptive and inferential statistics using the TI 84+ graphing calculator. Applications of statistical concepts include graphing and data presentation, exploring types of probability distributions, and using sampling methods to both describe and make inferences about a population. These topics are taught using discovery methods through simulations, activities, and projects.
AP PRECALCULUS
1 Credit / Year Long
Prerequisite(s): H ALGEBRA I, H ALGEBRA II, H GEOMETRY, AP Contract signed by parent and student
AP Precalculus prepares students for other college-level mathematics and science courses. Through regular practice, students build deep mastery of modeling and functions, and they examine scenarios through multiple representations. The course framework delineates content and skills common to college precalculus courses that are foundational for careers in mathematics, physics, biology, health science, social science, and data science.
AP CALCULUS AB 1 Credit / Year Long
Prerequisite(s): H ALGEBRA I, H ALGEBRA II, H GEOMETRY, AP PRECALCULUS, AP
Contract signed by parent and student
This is an Advanced Placement course in single variable calculus that follows the syllabus prepared by the College Board. The course builds on a rigorous treatment of topics covered in Precalculus and includes differential and integral calculus with applications. Prerequisite: Strong performance in Precalculus and permission of department chair. Departmental approval is required for enrollment.
Science
BIOLOGY 1 Credit/Year Long
Prerequisite(s): none
Biology is the study of living organisms and their relationships to one another within the environment Laboratory study is an important part of the course where students gain “hands-on” experience. Classroom discussions, projects, and individual/ group work also help students see connections in the living world.
CHEMISTRY 1 Credit / Year Long
Prerequisite(s): Concurrently enrolled in Geometry
Chemistry is the study of the properties of matter and the changes it undergoes with an emphasis on quantitative and critical thinking skills using laboratory activities, class discussions, and projects. Chemistry follows biology in the course sequence established by the Tennessee Diploma Project.
PHYSICS 1 Credit / Year Long
Prerequisite(s): none
Conceptual physics is emphasized in this course to foster an understanding of our physical environment Students study the relationship between matter and energy Metric measurement and mathematical techniques are applied to solve problems using the scientific method. Laboratory experiences are included in this course of study.
ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY 1 Credit / Year Long
Prerequisite(s): Medical Field Interest [FPA Humanity Credit]
Anatomy and Physiology is a study of the structure and function of the various systems of the human body As a science elective, emphasis will be on the major systems and how they coordinate activities to maintain a healthy body.
AP ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE 1 Credit / Year Long
Prerequisite(s): Medical field interest, AP Contract signed by parent and student Advanced Placement (AP) Environmental Science is interdisciplinary in nature with a strong basis in Ecology. It also applies other sciences, including social sciences, in attempting to understand the interrelationships of the natural world and to identify and solve problems caused by mankind’s use of the natural world. The goal of this full year course is to identify and analyze environmental problems, consider consequences, and explore alternatives as resolutions or preventative measures. Students who take AP Environmental Science are required to take the AP exam in the spring.
Social Studies
AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY 1 Credit/Year Long
Prerequisite(s): None
Students will examine the life and contributions of African Americans from the early 1600s through the contemporary United States. Students will explore the influence of geography on slavery and the growth of slavery in the U.S. Students will consider urban and rural African American communities and institutions in the North and South leading up to and during the Civil War. Students will investigate the rise of Jim Crow and the subsequent effects of the laws and trace the impact of African American migration through the early 20th century. Students will explore the impact of the Harlem Renaissance as well as the contributions of African Americans during the Great Depression and World War II. Students will examine the successes and failures of the Civil Rights Movement and consider the contemporary issues confronting African Americans.
WORLD HISTORY AND GEOGRAPHY 1 Credit/Year Long
Prerequisite(s): None
Students will study the rise of the nation-state in Europe, the French Revolution, and the economic and political roots of the modern world. Relevant Tennessee connections will be part of the curriculum, as well as appropriate primary source documents. Students will explore geographic influences on history, with attention given to political boundaries that developed with the evolution of nations from 1750 to the present and the subsequent human geographic issues that dominate the global community. Additionally, students will study aspects of technical geography such as GPS and GIS, and how these innovations continuously impact geopolitics in the contemporary world.
U.S. HISTORY & GEOGRAPHY 1 Credit / Year Long
Prerequisite(s): None
Students will examine the causes and consequences of the Industrial Revolution and America’s growing role in world diplomatic relations, including the Spanish-American War and World War I. Students will study the goals and accomplishments of the Progressive movement and the New Deal. Students will also learn about the various factors that led to America’s entry into World War II, as well as its consequences for American life. Students will learn about the Cold War, Civil Rights Movement, Great Society, and the consequences of these topics into the late 20th Century. Students will continue to learn fundamental concepts in civics, economics, and geography within the context of United States history Finally, students will focus on current human and physical geographic issues important in contemporary America and the global society.
U.S. GOVERNMENT & CIVICS
Prerequisite(s): None
0.5 Credit / Semester Long
U.S. Government & Civics is a survey of the American government. It includes English foundations and colonial experiences, the constitution, and the three branches of government.
ECONOMICS
Prerequisite(s): None
0.5 Credit / Semester Long
The economic system of the United States is compared to other economic systems with emphasis on how each determines what is to be produced, who will produce goods and services, and how they will be distributed.
Foreign Language
Spanish I 1 Credit/Year Long
Prerequisite(s): None
Grammatical structures and vocabulary are taught in a context that emphasizes communication skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing Spanish. Native speakers with no formal training in Spanish should be placed in the course.
Spanish II 1 Credit/Year Long
Prerequisite(s): Spanish I
A continuation of grammatical structures and vocabulary are taught in a context that emphasizes communication skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing Spanish.
Honors Spanish II 1 Credit/Year Long
Prerequisite(s): Native Spanish Speakers
The course provides a continuing study of Spanish grammar with activities designed to improve reading comprehension, listening, and speaking skills.
Spanish III 1 Credit/Year Long
Prerequisite(s): Spanish I, Spanish II (H)
Spanish III Honors is a continuation of Spanish I/II Honors. The course provides a continuing study of Spanish grammar with activities designed to improve reading comprehension, listening, and speaking skills
AP Spanish Language 1 Credit/Year Long
Prerequisite(s): Spanish I, Spanish II (H), Spanish III
AP Spanish is a college-level high school course designed to develop proficiency in Spanish language and culture. It's equivalent to an introductory college course in Spanish, focusing on developing interpretive, interpersonal, and presentational skills in the language.
Fine Arts
General Music 1 Credit/Year Long
Prerequisite(s): None
This course is a beginning-level class for students who wish to develop their vocal technique. Basic theory, sight-reading, breathing and breath support, resonance, and many other skills are developed. Concerts and one competition are required. A choral fee and the purchase of performance attire are required for this class.
Theatre:Musical/ Theatre I 1 Credit/Year Long
Prerequisite(s): None
Musical Theater courses provide students with the opportunity to explore and/or participate in various aspects of musical theater, including auditioning, singing, acting, and dancing. These courses review the history and evolution of musical theatre, its literature and artists, and styles of composition and vocal presentation. Students work collaboratively on performances, including solo, duet, and ensemble work.
Visual ART I 0.5 Credit/Semester Long
Prerequisite(s): None
Art 1 is a basic art course, incorporating the elements of art and the principles of design, coloring and drawing skills, and art history. Students receive grades for their artwork, which is graded on a rubric, involving following directions, craftsmanship, and creativity. A genuine interest in art is highly recommended. A supply fee of $20 is required. Additional supplies may be necessary
AP Drawing 1 Credit/Year Long
Prerequisite(s): Visual Art II or Portfolio Submission (3 pieces)
This course is designed for students with a professional or academic interest in the art of drawing. These courses focus on a variety of concepts and approaches in drawing, enabling students to demonstrate a depth of knowledge of the processes, and a range of abilities, and versatility with media, technique, problem solving, and scope. They can demonstrate such conceptual variety through either the use of one or the use of several media.These courses enable students to refine their skills and create artistic works to submit via portfolio to the College Board for evaluation.
Digital Arts & Design I 1 Credit/Year Long
Prerequisite(s): None
This is an entry-level course that explores graphic design from the creative side to count towards a fine art credit. Students will gain a strong foundation of the elements and principles of design, basic skills in Adobe software, and knowledge of graphic design basics such as the design process, typography, imagery, and ethics. Products will be created by hand and/or on the laptop.
Health and Wellness
PERSONAL FINANCE
Prerequisite(s): None
0.5 Credit 1 Semester
This course is required for graduation. It is designed to inform students how individual choices directly influence occupational goals and future earnings potential. Real world topics covered include income, money management, spending and credit, as well as savings and investing. Students will design personal and household budgets, simulate use of checking and savings accounts, demonstrate knowledge of finance, debt, and credit management, and evaluate and understand insurance and taxes. This course will provide a foundational understanding for making informed personal financial decisions.
Physical Education (PE) 0.5 Credit/ Semester or PE II 1 Credit/ Year long
Prerequisite(s): None
Necessary to meet state graduation PE requirements. The 0.5 PE activity elective credit can be earned through an exercise or athletic program certified by a coach or band director. This NON-GRADED curriculum is completed by the student enrolled in an athletic or band activity and certified by the teacher/coach. A grade of “P” is awarded to students who have completed one of the following activities equaling 70 hours of physical exercise and under the jurisdiction of the local high school:
1. TSSAA sport season
2. Marching band season
3. Cheer season
4. Intramural season in an intramural activity/club sponsored by the school
5. Cast member of the spring theatre musical
LIFETIME WELLNESS
Prerequisite(s): None
1
Credit / Year Long
This course emphasizes the need for responsibility by engaging in behaviors that develop optimal health and wellness. The ongoing process of wellness requires daily decision-making in nutrition, stress management, physical fitness, preventative health care, emotional health, and other aspects of a healthy lifestyle.
COMPUTER SCIENCE
Computer Applications
Prerequisite(s): none
1 Credit / Year Long
Computer Applications is a foundational course intended to teach students the computing fundamentals and concepts involved in the use of common software applications. Upon completion of this course, students will gain basic proficiency in word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and presentations.
Electives
Nutrition Across the Lifespan 1 Credit/Semester Long
Prerequisite(s): None
Nutrition Across the Lifespan is for students interested in learning more about becoming a dietitian, nutritionist, counselor, or pursuing a variety of scientific, health, or culinary arts professions. Upon completion of this course, proficient students will understand human anatomy and physiological systems, nutrition requirements, as well as social, cultural, and other impacts on food preparation and integrity.
JOURNALISM / YEARBOOK 1 Elective Credit / Year Long
Prerequisite(s): none
Journalism/Yearbook offers students the opportunity to employ skills learned in various classes including English, math, business, and art. In this class, students design pages, take photographs, write copy, and enter the copy in the computer They are responsible for raising funds necessary to publish the book. In addition, a select group of students from the staff produce a literary magazine. A good background in English is strongly recommended. This course may be taken multiple years. Please note: currently enrolled Yearbook students do not need to reapply.
Introduction to Business and Marketing 1 Elective Credit / Year Long
Prerequisite(s): none
Introduction to Business and Marketing is an introductory course designed to give students an overview of the Business Management and Administration, Marketing, and Finance career clusters. The course helps students prepare for the growing complexities of the business world by examining basic principles of business, marketing, and finance in addition to exploring key aspects of leadership, ethical and social responsibilities, and careers. Students’ academic skills in communications, mathematics, and economics are reinforced with activities modeled in the context of business topics. Upon completion of this course, proficient students will be equipped with the foundational skills to succeed in any of the Business, Marketing, or Finance programs of study and will be prepared to make an informed decision regarding which pathways they would like to pursue in high school.
ACT English Prep 0.5 credit/ Semester Long
Prerequisite(s): none
This class is a computerized online course. ACT Test Prep is a two part semester course designed to help prepare college bound students to score well on their ACT test or raise their score in math, English, and reading areas. This course will familiarize students with the test format and content in those areas so they will know what to expect when they take the ACT. The course will provide instruction to refresh the student’s knowledge and skills in math, English, and reading subtest areas. A considerable amount of time will be spent on test taking techniques: understanding what a question is asking, pacing, and strategies for guessing.
Dual Enrollment:
Reading America: The City From Whitman to Hip Hop | Arizona State University
0.5 credit/ Semester Long
Prerequisite(s): AP English Language and Composition
This introduction to college-level literature and writing treats American poetry of the city from 1855 through the present Focus areas include literature, music, art, and American history.
Dual Enrollment: Social Transformation | Arizona State University
0.5 credit/ Semester Long
Prerequisite(s): AP English Language and Composition
This is an introductory course designed to explore the core principles and frameworks of intersectionality and social transformation. The course content examines the social, political and cultural constructions of difference, the relationships and intersections between categories of difference - namely race, gender, sexuality, and dis/ability - and the ways in which individuals and groups experience multiple categories of difference. The course takes a social justice approach to understanding how forces of difference and structures of power impact justice, and determine strategies for creating a just society.