Heritage Academy 2008-2009 Course Description

  • ENGLISH
  • FOREIGN LANGUAGE
  • SOCIAL STUDIES/SCIENCE
  • SCIENCE
  • MATH
  • ELECTIVES
LITERATURE & WRITING (Transition ESL for high school)

One semester (Block): one credit Degree of Difficulty: Average
Homework: Average
Literature and Writing is a transitional English course for those students who are graduating from English as a Second Language coursework, or who are developing their reading and writing skills. The course is designed for students to work on reading comprehension via novels and short stories, as well as developing their written expression through essays and reports at the high school level.
Texts: High Point B- C, Hampton-Brown
Supplemental language-appropriate novels and short stories

LITERARY ANALYSIS & COMPOSITION

One semester (Block); one credit Degree of Difficulty: Regular
Prerequisite: English 8 Homework: Average
This course is designed for the high school student, both American and international. Students work on the writing process while refining their grammar, usage, and proofreading skills. Vocabulary development, reading comprehension, and journal-writing are also essential components of this course. Students will read a variety of literature including Romeo and Juliet, Night, The Odyssey and Great Expectations. Collaborating in small groups, students will engage in literary discussions, oral reviews, and creative expression. To strengthen vocabulary and speaking skills, students will prepare for vocabulary quizzes and oral interpretations on selected topics this semester.

Texts: Timeless Voices, Timeless Themes Gold, Prentice Hall
Romeo and Juliet, Shakespeare
Night, Wiesel
The Odyssey, Homer
Great Expectations, Dickens
To Kill a Mockingbird, Lee
AMERICAN LITERATURE

One semester (Block); one credit Degree of Difficulty: Regular
Prerequisite: none Homework: Average
American Literature is designed for the high school student, both American and international, who will examine significant literature written in North America from the 17th century to the present, including the periods of Classicism (Colonial to Revolutionary period), Romanticism, Transcendentalism, and Modern Realism. Students will read and identify the shared heritage of writers with regard to their use of plot, characterization, setting, theme, imagery, and symbolism. In addition to essays and a writing journal, students will write an expository research paper in MLA style. To strengthen vocabulary and speaking skills, students will prepare for vocabulary quizzes and oral interpretations based on the literature.

Texts: American Literature, Prentice Hall
The Great Gatsby, Fitzgerald
The Crucible, Miller
A Raisin in the Sun, Hansberry
BRITISH LITERATURE

One semester (Block): one credit Degree of Difficulty: Regular
Prerequisite: American Literature Homework: Average
This course examines significant British Literature written from the fifth century to the present including the Medieval Period, the Renaissance Period, the Romantic Period, the Victorian Period, and the Modern Period. Students will read drama, novels, prose and poetry and participate in a variety of class discussions, group activities, written responses and oral presentations. In addition to essays and a writing response journal, students will write an expository research paper in MLA style including thesis statement, developmental paragraphs, paraphrasing, researched quotations, parenthetical documentation and a list of works cited. Daily emphasis on vocabulary and writing will prepare students for college writing and college admissions tests.

Texts: British Traditions, Prentice Hall
Macbeth, Shakespeare
Sense and Sensibility, Austen
Picture of Dorian Gray, Wilde
Tale of Two Cities, Dickens
Brave New World, Huxley
Independent Novel Choice
Vocabulary Workshop F, Sadlier Oxford
WORLD LITERATURE

One semester (Block): one credit Degree of Difficulty: Regular
Prerequisite: American and British Literature Homework: Average
This course examines significant traditional and contemporary World literature. Students will read drama, novels, prose and poetry and participate in a variety of class discussions, group activities, written responses and oral presentations. In addition to essays and a writing response journal, students will write an expository research paper in MLA style including thesis statement, developmental paragraphs, paraphrasing, researched quotations, parenthetical documentation and a list of works cited. Daily emphasis on vocabulary and writing will prepare students for college writing and college admissions tests.
Texts: World Masterpieces, Prentice Hall (HHI) World Literature, NTC (DAU)
Things Fall Apart, Achebe
Kitchen, Banana
Chronicle of a Death Foretold, Marquez
Oedipus Rex, Sophocles
Kite Runner, Hosseini
Independent novel choice
Vocabulary Workshop G, Sadlier Oxford

Advanced Placement English Literature and Composition

One year; one credit (45 min.)
Degree of Difficulty: Advanced
Prerequisite: American & British Lit. Homework: Heavy
The goal of this course is to help students acquire the ability to read using the cloze method, understand the conventions of literary discourse, develop an appreciation of literature, and write accurately and insightfully about it. This AP course includes college level work, including adult reading materials and high expectations related to effort and achievement. There will be a great deal of reading and writing in this course, including independent reading outside of the regular class assignments. Students must be committed to doing their very best work in this class as they prepare to take the AP Exam in May. Therefore, they will generate pieces of writing that meet the demands of the Advanced Placement Exam in English Literature and Composition. They will read texts that represent both classical and contemporary literature in the genres of drama, fiction, and poetry. They will develop their ability to discuss important ideas based upon their reading of challenging literature. Essentially, students will prepare for the Advanced Placement Exam in English Literature and Composition.
Texts: Reading and Writing from Literature
The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn
One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest
As I Lay Dying
Heart of Darkness
Hamlet
Antigone
A Streetcar Named Desire
Waiting for Godot
Ethan Frome
Pride and Prejudice
Independent novel choice
Vocabulary Workshop H, Sadlier Oxford

HONORS ENGLISH SEMINAR: HISTORICAL & PSYCHOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVES

One year; one credit (45 min.) Degree of Difficulty: Advanced
(Course is taken in conjunction with AP Literature & Comp.)
Prerequisite: American and British Lit. Homework: Heavy

The goal of this course is to help students acquire the ability to analyze literature, modern and classic, from a historical and psychological perspective. The intent is to expand the students’ understanding beyond the literary value of the work itself – to enable the students to realize more fully the broader scope of literature and its significant social, moral, psychological, political, and historical impact on society – as a reflection of that society and as an tool of change within that society - both within specific time periods and for future generations. A secondary goal is to enhance students’ abilities to participate effectively in seminar environments wherein the major portion of learning is through questioning and discussion rather than in teacher-directed lectures.

JOURNALISM I

One semester (Block); one credit Degree of Difficulty: Regular
Prerequisite: none Homework: Light
This is a one semester course examining the historical and legal aspects of journalism, staff organization, layout, writing basic news stories, interviewing, and editing,. Students will study the text, Journalism Today, utilize the internet for research projects, be responsible to meet news deadlines, and share in the class responsibility to produce the Hammer Time.
Text: Journalism Today, Glencoe

JOURNALISM II

One semester (Block); one credit Degree of Difficulty: Regular
Prerequisite: none Homework: Light
This course examines journalism and yearbook practices and results in the publication of the Heritage Academy Yearbook. The yearbook is printed during the summer and arrives at Heritage Academy in September. Students learn the journalism basics such as brainstorming, gathering information, interviewing, copywriting and editing, as well as yearbook layout, design, photojournalism, cropping photos and copywriting with emphasis on headlines and captions. The newspaper will be used extensively as a resource. An emphasis is placed on deadlines and students will be held accountable for the completion of their assigned section of the yearbook.

FRENCH 1

One semester (Block); one credit Degree of Difficulty: Regular
Prerequisite: none Homework: Average
French I introduces students to the basic elements of the French language. Students learn conversation skills, basic vocabulary, how to ask and answer questions, and how to form negative statements. Grammar covered in the course includes the present tense, the passe compose, aller + infinitive, articles, and object pronouns. Speaking and listening exercises are also included in the curriculum. Throughout the semester, students learn about and appreciate the cultural aspects of life within the French-speaking world.
Text: Bon Voyage Level 1, Glencoe

FRENCH 2

One semester (Block); one credit Degree of Difficulty: Regular
Prerequisite: C or better in French 1 Homework: Average
French 2 continues to emphasize the major skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing. In addition, students will expand their knowledge not only of French cultures, but of the entire French-speaking world. Grammar focuses on increasingly difficult structures including tenses in the past and future. Students will learn vocabulary and sentence structures suitable for a variety of different situations and contexts.

Text: Bon Voyage Level 2, Glencoe
FRENCH 3

One semester (Block); one credit Degree of Difficulty: Regular
Prerequisite: C or better in French 2 Homework: Average
French 3 continues to emphasize the major skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing. In addition, students will expand their knowledge not only of French cultures, but of the entire French-speaking world. Grammar focuses on increasingly difficult structures including tenses in the past and future. Students will learn vocabulary and sentence structures suitable for a variety of different situations and contexts.
Text: Bon Voyage Level 3, Glencoe

ADVANCED FRENCH Grammar and Culture 4

One semester (Block); one credit Degree of Difficulty: Regular
Prerequisite: B or better in French 3 Homework: Average / Heavy
French 4 offers students the opportunity to broaden and refine their skills in French. The course reviews and builds on advanced grammar, expressing ideas orally in French, and writing essays. Students advance their understanding of culture in the French-speaking world through the study of literature, poetry, art and music. Grammar instruction will focus on past tenses, uses of the subjunctive, the future tenses and irregular verbs. It is important that students bring a French / English dictionary to class.

Text: Tableaux Culturels de la France
SPANISH 1

One semester (Block); one credit Degree of Difficulty: Regular
Prerequisite: none Homework: Average
Spanish I introduces the four major skills of foreign language learning: listening, speaking, reading, and writing in a communicative approach. In addition, the culture of Spain including major cities, history, and traditions are explored. Grammar focuses on verb formation in the present and past tenses, agreement of nouns and adjectives, introduction to object pronouns, forming questions, and appropriate word order. Students read and interpret a variety of written passages and learn to paraphrase in the target language.

Texts: Buen Viaje Level 1, Glencoe
SPANISH 2

One semester (Block); one credit Degree of Difficulty: Regular
Prerequisite: Spanish 1 Homework: Average
Spanish 2 continues to emphasize the four major skills of foreign language learning: listening, speaking, reading, and writing in a communicative approach. In addition to Spain, the countries and cultures of Mexico, Central America, and South America are explored. Grammar focuses on increasingly difficult structures including preterite vs. imperfect, future, conditional, perfect tenses, double object pronouns and comparative forms.
Text: Buen Viaje Level 2, Glencoe

SPANISH 3

One semester (Block); one credit Degree of Difficulty: Regular
Prerequisite: Spanish 2 Homework: Average
Spanish 3 is designed as an advanced class for those who already have a grasp on the basic grammatical concepts, oral comprehension and written comprehension in Spanish. The goal of this course is to enable students to improve the four language skills: reading, listening, speaking, and writing. In addition, cultural insights of Latino America and Spain are explored during this course.

Text: Buen Viaje Level 3, Glencoe
ADVANCED SPANISH 4

One semester (Block); one credit Degree of Difficulty: Advanced
Prerequisite: Spanish 3 Homework: Average to heavy
Spanish 4/ 5 (Advanced Grammar and Culture) encompasses a study of advanced grammar, composition, and communication. At this level, effective communication
(written and oral ) continues to be the ultimate goal. Short stories, poetry, essays and a novel are used as an introduction to Hispanic literature. Students write descriptive essays and opinion papers. Students study the effect of the history of Spain on the cultural and artistic traditions of the Hispanic world. Successful completion of this course should enable the student to “place out” of several courses of Spanish at the college level.
Text: Galeria de arte Vida, Glencoe
Abriendo Paso Gramatica, Glencoe

Abriendo Paso Lectura, Glencoe
WORLD GEOGRAPHY

One semester (Block): one credit Degree of Difficulty: Regular
Prerequisite: none Homework: Average
In this course students study the influence of geography on events of the past and present. The course centers around the physical processes that shape patterns in the physical environment; the characteristics of major land forms, climates, and ecosystems and their interrelationships; the political, economic, and social processes that shape cultural patterns of regions; types and patterns of settlement; the distribution and movement of world population; relationships among people, places, and environments; and the concept of region. Students analyze how location affects economic activities in different economic systems throughout the world. Students identify the processes that influence political divisions of the planet and analyze how different points of view affect the development of public policies. Students compare how components of culture shape the characteristics of regions and analyze the impact of technology and human modifications on the physical environment. Students use problem-solving and decision-making skills to ask and answer geographic questions.

student vocabulary using the academic content provided.
WORLD HISTORY

One semester (Block): one credit Degree of Difficulty: Average
Prerequisites: None Homework: Average
World History focuses on the history of the world from the Age of Exploration to the 20th century. Students will study the Renaissance, the Age of Reason, the Age of Revolution, the Industrial Revolution, the Era of European Imperialism, and the World Wars of the 20th century. Emphasis will be placed on cause and effect in the course of history and linkages to the world today.
Text: World History, Glencoe

U.S. HISTORY

One semester (Block); one credit Degree of Difficulty: Regular
Prerequisite: none Homework: Average
This is a high school course in American history meant to provide students with a baseline narrative of the nation’s course from early American civilization to the present. Subjects covered will include Discovery and Settlement of the New World 1492-1650, America and the British Empire 1650-1754, Colonial Society in the Mid-Eighteenth Century, Road to Revolution 1754-1775, The American Revolution 1775-1783, Constitution and New Republic 1776-1800, The Age of Jefferson 1800-1816, Nationalism and Economic Expansion, Sectionalism, Age of Jackson 1828-1848, Territorial Expansion and Sectional Crisis, Creating an American culture, The 1850’s, and Decade of crisis and Civil War, Reconstruction, the rise of industrialism, Western expansion, Populism and Progressivism, the rise of Jim Crow segregation, immigration, WW I, the 1920s, the Great Depression and the New Deal, WWI II, the Cold War and McCarthyism, the 60s and 70s, the rise of conservative Republican politics, and the Clinton Era.
Text: The Americans, McDougall

U.S. GOVERNMENT/ECONOMICS

One semester (Block): one credit Degree of Difficulty: Regular
Prerequisite: none Homework: Average
The course will focus on the following concepts: How our government came to be organized; the background and political philosophies of our founding fathers; the Bill of Rights; the office and duties of the Chief Executive; and the organization of Congress and the landmark Supreme Court cases and their significance today. In Economics, the course will focus on these concepts: The Basis of Economics; Capitalism and the Market Economy; Demand and Supply; Determining Prices; Measuring Economics Performance; Inflation and Unemployment; Money and Banking; The Federal reserve system and Monetary Policy and Taxes; and National Debt and Fiscal Policy.
Text: United States Government: Democracy in Action, Glencoe

Economics, Glencoe
SOCIOLOGY

One semester (Block); one credit Degree of Difficulty: Regular
Prerequisite: none Homework: Average
Sociology is the scientific study of society and human behavior. During the semester, we will touch upon such topics as the sociological perspective, culture, socialization, social groups, crime & deviance, sex & gender, race & ethnicity, social structures, social class, the elderly, family & marriage, medicine, and social change. This course is a basic introduction to the field of sociology.
Text: Sociology and You, Glencoe

PSYCHOLOGY

One semester (Block); one credit Degree of Difficulty: Regular
Prerequisite: none Homework: Average
Psychology is a beginning course in the basic principles and concepts of psychology. Special attention is given to provide an exposure to a wide variety of human behaviors, which may include but are not limited to: sensation, perception, learning, memory, thinking, development, personality, and disorders.

Text: Discovering Psychology 4th ed., Worth
ADVANCED PLACEMENT U.S. HISTORY

Full year 45 min.: one credit Degree of difficulty: Advanced
Running concurrent 45 min. “America 20s” and “America 30s”: .5 credit each sem.
Prerequisite: U.S. History Homework: Above average
The course will focus on the following periods: Exploration to the French and Indian War-1607-1763, American Revolution through the Constitution-1763-1789, Early National Period-1789-1820, Jacksonian Democracy-1824-1850, Civil War through Reconstruction-1860-1877, Gilded Age: Rise of Big Business-1870-1900, Progressive Movement; Imperialism; World War I-1900-1920, New Deal-1920-1940, World War II through 1960 and 1960 to the Present Day.
Text: The American Pageant, Houghton Mifflin

THE TWENTIES

One semester (Block): .5 credit Degree of Difficulty: Above Average
Prerequisite: U.S. History Homework: Average
This course runs concurrently with AP American History and is designed to give students a comprehensive view of American life in the “Roaring Twenties.” Topics to be studied include: The Red Scare, KKK, Immigration, Prohibition Experiment, The Golden Age of Gangsterism, Monkey Trial, Rise of the Automobile and Henry Ford, the Radio Revolution and Wall Street’s Big Bull Market.
Text: Only Yesterday by Frederick Lewis Allen.

THE THIRTIES

One semester (Block): .5 credit Degree of Difficulty: Regular
Prerequisite: none Homework: Average
This course runs concurrently with AP American History and is designed to give students a comprehensive view of the Great Depression and the New Deal. Topics to be covered include: FDR as President, Relief, Recovery, Reform, Major New Deal Measures, Dust Bowl, Housing and Social Security, A New Deal for Labor, Rise of Hitler and Appeasing Japan and Germany.

Text: Since Yesterday by Frederick Lewis Allen.
Advanced Placement Government

One semester (Block); one credit Degree of Difficulty: Advanced
Homework: Average to above
(From the College Board Advanced Placement Course Description booklet)
The AP Government & Politics: United States course provides an analytical perspective on government and politics in the United States. This course involves both the study of general concepts used to interpret U.S. politics and the analysis of specific case studies. It also requires familiarity with the various institutions, groups, beliefs, and ideas that constitute U.S. political reality.
Topics students will study in depth include the following:
Constitutional underpinnings of United States government
Political beliefs and behaviors
Political parties, interest groups, and mass media
Institutions of national government: the Congress, the Presidency, the Bureaucracy, and the Federal Courts
Public policy
Civil rights and civil liberties
Text: Government by the People, Prentice Hall

PHYSICAL SCIENCE

One semester (block): one credit
Prerequisites: MS Science 7 or 8 Degree of Difficulty: Average
Math: Pre-algebra or concurrent Homework: Average
Physical Science is a foundation course preparing the student for entry into high school science. It is a laboratory course emphasizing the principles of chemistry and physics. The chemistry section includes the study of matter, atomic structure, the periodic table, chemical reactions, nomenclature and an introduction into nuclear chemistry. The physics section introduces the student to kinematics, energy, electromagnetism and wave phenomena.
Text: Physical Science with Earth and Space, Prentice Hall

BIOLOGY

One semester (Block); one credit Degree of Difficulty: Average
Prerequisite: None Homework: Average
This course is designed to introduce students to the study of living organisms. This course includes microscopic and dissection work. Material covered includes a brief introduction to chemistry and biochemistry, and a comprehensive study of the structure and function of the cell, Photosynthesis and cellular respiration, cellular reproduction, genetics and evolution are also studied. Weekly laboratory assignments include the writing of formal laboratory reports. This course is designed to prepare the student for entrance into college level biology or AP Biology.

Text: Modern Biology, Holt
CHEMISTRY

One semester (Block); one credit Degree of Difficulty: Average Prerequisite: Algebra 1 with a C+ or better Homework: Average
Physical Science recommended
This course is designed as an introduction for students to the composition of substances at the atomic and molecular level. Basic problem solving techniques, metric conversions, scientific notation are also covered. Students will become familiar with the mole and stochiometry as well as the composition and states of matter at the atomic and molecular level, the naming of formulas, and chemical reactions. This course also includes chapters on hydrocarbons, gas laws and nuclear chemistry. Weekly laboratory assignments include the writing of formal laboratory reports. Chemistry is a course that requires higher level thinking abilities. It forces the students to solve complicated word problems. The work in this course is cumulative with the material of the succeeding chapters building upon proceeding work.

Text: Chemistry, Prentice Hall
MARINE BIOLOGY

One semester (Block): one credit
Prerequisites: Biology and Chemistry Degree of Difficulty: Average
Math: Algebra 2 or higher Homework: Average
This course is an introductory survey course in marine biology. The major topics covered are marine environments, algae, Plants, invertebrates, fish, reptiles, birds, mammals, tidal zones, salt marshes, estuaries, rocky shores, and open ocean. Students will be expected to participate in several field experiences. Lab experiences will focus on higher level thinking skills and students should already have a strong foundation in biology so they can build upon this knowledge. This course is not designed as a substitute for first year biology.
Text: Marine Biology, McGraw Hill and Tideland Treasures

ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY

One semester (Block): one credit Degree of Difficulty: Above Average Prerequisites: Biology Homework: Average
Anatomy is the study of the structure of body parts and physiology is the study of the function of these parts. This course in an introductory course which will cover basic information necessary for a general understanding of the structure and functions of the human body. Units are as follows: human organization, cell structure, structure and functions of the skin, skeletal and muscular systems, nervous system, senses, endocrine system, composition of blood, blood types, blood groups, vascular and circulatory system, lymphatic system, respiratory system, digestive system, urinary system, reproduction development.

Text: Understanding Human Anatomy and Physiology, McGraw Hill
PHYSICS

One semester (Block); 1 credit Degree of Difficulty: Above Average
Prerequisite: Algebra II with a C+ or better Homework: Average
Physical Science recommended
This course is designed as an introduction to students to the study of matter and energy and the relationship between the two. Physics involves extension problem solving, basic geometry, and coordinate systems. The student should have knowledge of integrated problem solving technique prior to entering this course. This course includes a study of vectors, forces, motion, and momentum. It also includes a study of the basic forms of energy, states of matter, waves, light, electricity and magnetism. This course is designed to prepare the student for entrance into college level physics or AP Physics.
Text: Physics, Holt

ADVANCED PLACEMENT CHEMISTRY

One year: 45 min.; one credit Degree of Difficulty: Above Average
Prerequisites: Biology and Chemistry; Homework: Above Average
Math: Algebra II
This course is designed to prepare the student for the Advanced Placement Chemistry examination given in May which offers the student the opportunity to earn advanced placement or college credit for their high school achievement. This course follows strict guidelines and covers the following material: structure and states of matter, chemical reactions, stochiometry, thermodynamics, equilibrium, acid/base solutions, electrochemistry, oxidation-reduction, organic chemistry and nuclear chemistry.

Text: Chemistry, Prentice Hall
INORGANIC CHEMISTRY

One year: 45 min.; one credit Degree of Difficulty: Above Average
Or one semester; 90 minutes; one credit
Prerequisites: Biology and Chemistry; Pre-calc Homework: Above Average
This course is designed to introduce the student to the fundamentals of inorganic chemistry. It will include a serious study of atomic structure, and simple bonding and group theory with a briefer treatment on molecular orbitals. Major acid-base concepts and an investigation into the crystalline solid state will be explored. The latter half of the course will be an in depth examination of coordinate chemistry and the chemistry of transition metals.

Text: Inorganic Chemistry, Prentice Hall
Environmental Science

One semester (Block); one credit
Degree of Difficulty: Average
Homework: Average
Environmental Science is an elective course designed to provide the student with the knowledge needed to understand the interrelationships among living and nonliving systems. Units include: the sustainability of life on Earth, the biodiversity of healthy ecosystems, an examination of Earth’s biomes, and environmental concerns related to people.  

ALGEBRA 1

One semester (Block); one credit Degree of Difficulty: Regular
Prerequisite: none Homework: Average
Students will acquire and demonstrate knowledge of these following topics in algebra: expressions and equations, real numbers, solving linear equations, graphing relations and functions, analyzing linear equations, solving linear inequalities, solving systems, polynomials, factoring, quadratic functions, radical expressions, rational expressions, statistics, and probability.
Text: Algebra 1, Glencoe

ALGEBRA 2

One semester (Block); one credit Degree of Difficulty: Regular
Prerequisite: Algebra 1 Homework: Average
In the context of real-world applications, this course intends to further develop students’ computational powers and ability to generalize and craft mathematical solutions to everyday problems. Content explores linear relations and functions, systems of equations and inequalities, matrices. Skills with quadratic and polynomial functions are applied through practice. The course also includes sections on advanced functions such as conic sections and exponential/logarithmic relations. Trigonometry concepts are introduced in anticipation of subsequent classes in Algebra 3, Pre-calculus, and Calculus.

Text: Algebra 2, Glencoe
ALGEBRA 3

One semester (Block); one credit Degree of Difficulty: Regular
Prerequisite: Algebra 1, Algebra 2 Homework: Average
Algebra 3 is a survey course, designed to begin with a study of the complex number system and a review of symbolic manipulation and functions. In addition, the curriculum focuses on the students’ ability to communicate mathematics, a willingness to persevere in mathematical tasks, and a flexibility in exploring mathematical ideas and alternative methods when problem solving. Students successfully completing this course are prepared for college algebra.
Text: in adoption cycle

GEOMETRY

One semester (Block); one credit Degree of Difficulty: Regular
Prerequisite: Algebra 1 Homework: Average
Topics covered in geometry include: the language of geometry, reasoning and proof, parallels, congruent triangles, applying congruent triangles, quadrilaterals, similarity, right triangles and trigonometry, circles, polygons and area, surface area and volume, more coordinate geometry, loci and transformations. Students will acquire and demonstrate knowledge of the concepts, definitions, and properties outlined above. They will develop critical thinking and decision-making skills by applying concepts learned to practical real-world situations.
Text: Geometry, Glencoe

PRECALCULUS

One semester (Block); one credit Degree of Difficulty: Advanced
Prerequisite: Algebra 1, Algebra II, Geometry Homework: Average
Precalculus completes the study of the elementary functions begun in Algebra I, Algebra II, and Geometry. Students focus on the use of technology, modeling, and problem solving using data analysis, trigonometric and circular functions, their inverses, polar coordinates, complex numbers, conics and quadratic relations. Students who complete this course will understand the conceptual foundations of limit, the area under a curve, and the slope of a tangent line, in preparation for the formal study of calculus.
Text: Precalculus, Prentice Hall

CALCULUS

One semester (Block); one credit Degree of Difficulty: Regular
Prerequisite: Knowledge of mathematical concepts Homework: Average
and analysis covered in pre-calculus
Calculus is for students with a strong ability and interest in mathematics. Course content includes differential and integral calculus applied to algebraic, polynomial, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions. Course material incorporates a broad spectrum of interesting applications from the business, social and scientific fields. Problem solving involves a balanced approach to obtain solutions algebraically and analytically and support these results graphically and numerically. Graphing calculator use is mandatory for this course.
Text: Calculus: Graphical and Numerical, Prentice Hall (HHI)

Math for Calculus, Worth (DAU)
Advanced Placement Calculus AB

One semester (Block); one credit Degree of Difficulty: Above Average
Prerequisite: Calculus Homework: Above Average
AP Calculus AB is a course in single-variable calculus that includes techniques and applications of the derivative, techniques and applications of the definite integral, and the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus. It is equivalent to at least a semester of calculus at most colleges and universities, perhaps to a year of calculus at some. Algebraic, numerical, and graphical representations are emphasized throughout the course.
Text: AP Calculus, Prentice Hall

Statistics
One semester (Block): one credit
Degree of Difficulty: Regular
Homework: Average
This course is an introduction to statistics that emphasizes the elements of statistical thinking and focuses on data and concepts.  Students will explore data, examine relationships, and make inferential decisions. Included will be a study of sampling distributions, graphing results, the normal distribution, probability, and inference. Upon completion of this course, students will have a strong background in statistical concepts so as to be well prepared for a college level statistics course.
Advanced Placement Statistics
One Block; one credit   Degree of Difficulty: Regular to advanced
Homework: Average to above
(From the College Board Advanced Placement Course Description booklet)
The purpose of the AP course in statistics is to introduce students to the major
concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data.
Students are exposed to four broad conceptual themes:
1. Exploring Data: Describing patterns and departures from patterns
2. Sampling and Experimentation: Planning and conducting a study
3. Anticipating Patterns: Exploring random phenomena using probability
and simulation
4. Statistical Inference: Estimating population parameters and testing hypotheses
Students who successfully complete the course and exam may receive credit,
advanced placement, or both for a one-semester introductory college statistics
course.
Text: Statistics Through Application, Bedford
BEGINNING ART

One semester (Block); one credit Degree of Difficulty: Regular
Prerequisite: none Homework: Average
Students will begin the study of art by exploring the Elements and Principles of Design in which all art should reflect. Major emphasis of Beginning Art is the experimentation with a number of artistic mediums. Drawing will be introduced and through practice, students will demonstrate an understanding of good drawing through weekly homework. Subject matter exploration through various mediums will consist of still life, landscapes floral, portraiture and abstract. Design construction will be an integral part of beginning art. Through experimentation, each student will find personal artistic growth and begin to cultivate imagination as an artist and artistic enthusiast.

ADVANCED ART

One semester (Block); one credit Degree of Difficulty: Regular
Prerequisite: Beginning Art Homework: Average
Advanced art is an in-depth continuation of the concepts, techniques, mediums and building blocks of art that were introduced in Beginning Art. Students will develop many of their projects from photo assignments throughout the semester with emphasis on the importance of composition. Students will explore some of the important 19th and 20th century art styles such as Impressionism, Pointellism, Fauvism, Expressionism, Cubism, and Abstract art and they will find success in composing in each of these genres. Through experimentation, each student will find personal artistic growth and begin to cultivate imagination as an artist and artistic enthusiast.

STUDIO ART

One semester (Block): one credit Degree of Difficulty: Regular
Prerequisite AP: Application/approval instructor Homework: Average
The Studio/AP Art Program is designed for students who are seriously interested in the practical experience of art. Studio/AP is not based on a written examination; instead students submit portfolios for evaluation at the end of the school year.
The Studio Art program sets a national standard for performance in the visual arts that contributes to the significant role the arts play in academic environments.
Studio Art should address three major concerns that are constants in the teaching of art:
1. A sense of quality in a student's work.
2. The student's concentration on a particular visual interest or problem.
3. The student's need for breadth of experience in the formal, technical,
and expressive means of the artist.

CHORUS

One year (T/TH); one credit Degree of Difficulty: Regular
Prerequisite: none Homework: Average
The purpose of the choral program is to help students develop their singing voices and to explore their vocal abilities. Students will learn basic singing posture, breath control, phrasing, tone color, dynamics, read musical notation, and the physical development of the voice. As they learn through singing, they will expand their general musicianship and will become more knowledgeable in the areas of music theory and music history. We will strive to develop the whole musician. The choir provides opportunities for students to perform for parents, peers, at community functions, and at choral festivals, seminars and contests. Students will sing a variety of vocal literature including songs in the categories of folk/cultural, art, holiday/seasonal, sacred, patriotic, and popular. Students may at times also learn movement, choreography, or dances to coordinate with the music, and play instruments to accompany the choral literature.