Electives in high school are courses that students choose to take outside of the core required subjects like English, math, science, and social studies. While electives are usually required for graduation, students have the freedom to select classes that interest them and explore new skills or potential career paths

. Electives provide an opportunity to enrich the high school experience by allowing students to pursue personal interests, develop talents, and gain exposure to a wide range of subjects. They can include areas such as fine arts, foreign languages, business, computer science, family and consumer sciences, performing arts, physical education, vocational education, and more

. Common examples of elective courses include:

• Business subjects like accounting and marketing
• Computer science topics like programming and graphic design
• Foreign languages such as Spanish, French, or American Sign Language
• Arts including drawing, photography, and theater
• Physical education options like yoga or swimming
• Vocational classes such as auto mechanics or cosmetology

Electives help students discover interests that might influence their college major or career choice. They also add variety to the school schedule and can strengthen college applications by demonstrating a well-rounded education

. In summary, electives are optional classes chosen by students that complement the core curriculum and provide opportunities for exploration and skill development in diverse fields