Course Descriptions
The complete course of instruction covers eight semesters. Each semester is a one-half credit course. Approximately 40% of each course focuses on Aerospace Science, 40% focuses on Leadership Education and the remaining 20% on Wellness. The Air Force Junior ROTC curriculum is based on integrating five themes: Aviation, National Defense, Careers, Space, and Leadership. Cadets have the opportunity to take field trips and visit various military and civilian installations/facilities as part of the curriculum-in-action program.
Aerospace Science
AS-100 A Journey into Aviation History – An aviation history course focusing on the development of flight throughout the centuries. It starts with ancient civilizations progressing to modern day. The emphasis is on civilian and military contribution to aviation. It introduces the principles of flight to include basic aeronautics, aircraft motion and control, flight power, and rockets.
AS-200 – The Science of Flight – A Gateway to New Horizons – An introductory course that focuses on how airplanes fly, how weather conditions affect flight, flight and the human body, and flight navigation. The course is designed to complement materials taught in math, physics, and other science related courses and is aligned with the National Science Education Standards, the Math Standards and Expectations, and ISTE National Educational Technology Standards for Students.
AS-220 Cultural Studies: An Introduction to Global Awareness – Introduces students to the world’s cultures through the study of world affairs, regional studies, and cultural awareness. The course delves into history, geography, religions, languages, culture, political systems, economics, social issues, environments concerns, and human rights. It looks at major events and significant figures that have shaped each region.
AS-300 Exploring Space: The High Frontier – This course covers the earliest days of interest in astronomy and early ideas of the heavens, through the Renaissance, and on into modern astronomy. It provides an in-depth study of the Earth, Sun, stars, Moon, and solar system, including the terrestrial and the outer planets. It investigates the importance of entering space and discusses manned and unmanned space flights, the Space Shuttle, space stations and beyond. It also examines the latest advances in space technology, including robotics in space, the Mars Rover, and commercial uses of space.
AS-400 Management of the Cadet Corps – This hands-on experience affords fourth year cadets in the Air Force Junior ROTC program the opportunity to put the theories of previous leadership courses into practice. All the planning, organizing, coordinating, directing, controlling, and decision-making will be done by the cadets. They will put into practice their communication, decision-making, personal-interaction, managerial, and organizational skills.
AS-410 Survival – This course provides training in skills, knowledge, and attitudes necessary to successfully perform fundamental tasks needed for survival. Survival also presents “good to know” information that would be useful in any situation. The information is just as useful to an individual lost hunting or stranded in a snowstorm.
Leadership
LE-100 Traditions, Wellness, and Foundations of Citizenship – Introduces cadets to history, organization, mission, traditions, goals, and objectives of JROTC for all services. Cadets will learn key military customs and courtesies, how to project a positive attitude, and exam the principles of ethical and moral behavior. Cadets will be taught strategies for effective note taking and study skills for academic success and how to be emotionally, mentally, and physically healthy along with how to avoid and prevent violence in today’s society. This course will cover healthy living, physical fitness, and how to make safe, drug-free, and responsible decisions. Cadets will also examine the negative effects of air and water pollution, and how to help keep the environment safe. Finally, cadets will be introduced to civics and our national government, a historical understanding of the American flag and other important national symbols, and how the US Constitution protects our rights and freedoms as American citizens.
LE-200 Communication, Awareness, and Leadership – Stresses communications skills and Cadet Corps activities. Much information is provided on communicating effectively, understanding groups and teams, preparing for leadership, solving conflicts and problems, and personal development. Written reports and speeches compliment the academic materials.
LE-300 Life Skills and Career Opportunities – This course is helpful to students deciding which path to take after high school. Information on how to apply for admission to college or vocational school is included. Information is also available about financial planning and how to save, invest, and spend money wisely, as well as how not to get caught in the credit trap. Students are informed about real life issues such as understanding contracts, leases, wills, warranties, legal notices, and personal bills. Citizen responsibilities include registering to vote, jury duty, and draft registration. There is also information on how to prepare a resume and the importance of good interviewing skills. Information is available for students interested in the military, federal government, or aerospace careers.
LE-400 Principles of Management – This course provides exposure to the fundamentals of management. Throughout the text are many ethical dilemmas, case studies, and role play activities. These activities are based on real life experiences and will allow students the opportunity to practice what they learn by getting involved in discussions and expressing their opinions.
LE 500 Drill and Ceremonies – This course provides an in-depth introduction to drill and ceremonies. The course concentrates on the elements of military drill, and describes individual and group precision movements, procedures for saluting, drill, ceremonies, reviews, parades, and development of the command voice. Students are provided detailed instruction on ceremonial performances and protocol for civilian and military events and have the opportunity to personally learn drill.
Wellness Program
Wellness is an official and integral part of the Air Force Junior ROTC program. The objective of the Wellness Program is to motivate cadets to lead healthy, active lifestyles beyond program requirements and into their adult lives. For classes awarding elective or PE credit for AFJROTC courses, 20% of available contact time must be devoted to Wellness instruction.