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Course Descriptions and Outcomes

Course Title: English 9/10
Objectives:To prepare students for more advanced work in English 11/12. To move students beyond reading towards analysis of both major and popular works of literature in terms of theme, characters, literary and historical significance, and diverse interpretations. To understand the importance of one's own individuality and comprehend the need to accept and respect the individuality of others through a variety of discussion forums. To explore analytical and creative writing strategies and genres, including essays, short stories, poetry, and plays. To understand how argument functions in literature, how to analyze works in terms of style, how the journey impacts literature and life, and the different functions of fiction and nonfiction works of literature. To express correct grammar, sophisticated vocabulary, and proper writing conventions in all writing. To complete academically significant research and accurately site and use information obtained through research.

Expected Outcomes: Students will use MLA formatting for all research. Students will be able to begin writing analytical and research essays of varied lengths, and will begin mastering the basic five paragraph essay. Students will identify aspects & attributes of multiple literary genres: poetry, short fiction, drama and the novel. Students will prepare a project of suitable length for oral presentation to the class. Students will present a dramatic interpretation of a soliloquy or scene from a major dramatic work Students will research and write a fully documented, critical research paper on a literary topic. Students will develop an appreciation of the complex ideas and beauties of several of the world's important & influential writer. Students will develop an appreciation of reading by silent sustained reading of a student-selected work. Students will refine their mastery of the conventions of grammar & usage.

Course Title: English 11/12
Objectives: To prepare students for college level writing and analysis. To move students beyond reading towards analysis of both major and popular works of literature in terms of theme, characters, literary and historical significance, and diverse interpretations. To understand the importance of one's own individuality and comprehend the need to accept and respect the individuality of others through a variety of discussion forums. To explore analytical and creative writing strategies and genres, including essays, short stories, poetry, and plays. To understand how argument functions in literature, how to analyze works in terms of style, how the journey impacts literature and life, and the different functions of fiction and nonfiction works of literature. To express correct grammar, sophisticated vocabulary, and proper writing conventions in all writing. To complete academically significant research and accurately site and use information obtained through research.

Expected Outcomes: Students will be able to write analytical and research essays of varied lengths, and will exhibit mastery of the basic five paragraph essay. Students will use MLA formatting for all research. Students will write at minimum a play, a short story, at least one poem, and a memoir in addition to several essays. Students will read literature from a variety of genres and learn to take notes, discuss, and analyze diverse works in terms of theme, historical or literary significance, and character development. Students will also write less formal reactions to literature and discussions, including short answer tests, essay tests, and journals.

Course Name: Global History
Objectives: Students will study a variety of global history topics and time periods from the ancient civilizations of Greece and Rome to the 20th Century's War on Terror.

Expected Outcomes: Students will use imagination and creative thinking to better understand different time periods and cultures. They will interpret primary and secondary sources, timelines, maps, photographs and all other text and non-text sources. Students will develop critical opinions on historical topics and support these opinions in a respectful manner and learn to appreciate the diversity of different countries and cultures and their place and role in history

Course Title: US History
Objectives: To provide students with an understanding of the different time periods in US history, as well as the individuals, events, and ideas that created the nation as we experience it today. To teach students how to think critically about history and draw conclusions about relevant topics in both discussion as well as in writing. To expose students to certain skills used in the social studies such as reading primary vs. secondary sources, doing research on a historical topic, and preparing for a debate. To have students practice those skills on a continual basis.

Expected Outcomes: Students will take notes effectively during a history lecture. Students will regularly discuss content in class. Students will be able to incorporate both description and higher order thinking skills like analysis in their writing. Students will be expected to complete three essays over the course of the term. Students will also complete regular short homework assignments and class work reflecting on what they are learning. Students will complete four tests over the course of the term. Each test will cover a unit or section of the class content for the given term. At the end of the term, students will present a final, research based, project.

Course Title: Geometry
Objectives Covers topics such as segment and angle measures, reasoning and proofs, parallel and perpendicular lines, triangles, congruence and similarity, quadrilaterals, right triangle trigonometry, circles and solids.

Expected Outcomes: Students will be able to use previously learned mathematical concepts along with along with the material learned in geometry in order to answer questions and solve real world applications.

Course Title: Algebra 1
Objectives Covers topics such as functions, properties of real numbers, linear equations and inequalities, properties of exponents, quadratic equations and other polynomial functions

Expected Outcomes: Students will use the concepts of algebra in order to answer questions and solve real world applications.

Course: Algebra 2
Objectives: By Using texts, drills, and work during and outside of class, the student can master the principles of Algebra. Algebraic principles and skills are used to encourage and develop abstract thinking which fuels the imagination. Abstract thinking is used in solving problems in science, engineering, and other technical discipline.

Expected Outcomes: The students will develop the ability to analyze and graph complex functions giving them an introduction to limits and exponential growth. Students will also learn to solve, graph, and analyze linear and quadratic equations as well as inequalities.

Course: Pre-Calculus
Objectives: To prepare a student for Calculus by fine tuning a students understanding and knowledge of the algebraic concepts covered up through Algebra II. Students will explore algebraic and trigonometric expressions; increase depth of knowledge of functions and how to manipulate them; develop focused logical thought through working with mathematical problems; and to further develop student's note taking and organizational skills.

Expected Outcomes: Students will be able to grasp new math concepts and apply their linear math skills to solving higher functioning equations and applications.

Course: Calculus
Objectives: Calculus will develop the students understanding of the mathematics of rates of change using Differentiation and Integration to analyze, understand and graph functions.

Expected Outcomes: To expand the students' mathematical tools available for problem solving; examine the interrelationships of rates of change; explore new mathematical operations such as the Derivative, Limits and Integrals; increase students' depth of knowledge of functions and how to manipulate them; develop focused logical thought through working with mathematical problems; as well as the further development a student's note taking and organizational skills.

Course: Chemistry
Objectives: To explore the influence that Chemistry has on all aspects of our lives. We study the atomic nature of matter and how atoms react to each other. We also study how to measure chemical quantities in solid, liquid and gaseous states. The laboratory component is designed to satisfy a student's natural desire to understand how things work using hands-on exercises keyed to the individual chapter topics.

Expected Outcomes: Students should achieve mastery of the concepts presented. Individual students should also become comfortable with the language and mathematics associated with Chemistry and Science in general. Development of respect for and the ability to use the scientific method is also important

Course: Physics
Objectives: This course involves the study of matter and energy and their interactions. It provides a understanding of the basic laws that govern physical and chemical processes. This Physics course is designed to: instruct students in foundational physical concepts ranging from basic mechanics, the nature of matter, sound, light and nuclear reactions. It also prepares students to exist in an increasingly technological society, develop the students' analytical, problem solving, and laboratory skills and integrate math, science and technology.

Expected Outcomes: Student should develop a mastery of the basic concepts involved in Physics. They should learn how to manipulate and evaluate the physical world around them through conceptual exercises and hands-on laboratory projects. Student should also develop a respect for and an ability to use the scientific method.

Course: Spanish: Beginner and Intermediate
Objectives: To prepare students to understand the basics of speaking, understanding, and using the Spanish language. To introduce students to Spanish and Hispanic culture and countries. To introduce students to the basics of the Spanish language, including verb tenses and vocabulary. To allow individual growth in use of the Spanish language, including reading, writing, speaking, and listening.

Expected Outcomes: Students will be able to write basic sentences and hold very basic introductory conversations by the end of Beginning Spanish. Beginning Spanish students will also build a basic vocabulary to discuss the world around them, including classes, time, weather, and basic travel. Intermediate Spanish students will write short stories in Spanish, read short stories and articles in Spanish with an emphasis on comprehension through contextual evidence, and hold basic conversations relevant to travel. Intermediate Spanish students will build a more comprehensive vocabulary and understanding of the mechanics of Spanish, including all present, past, future, conditional and subjunctive tenses and moods by the end of a third year of study. All Spanish students will know the names, capitals, and basic facts and cultural/ historical information about each Spanish-speaking country by the end of 3 terms, or one year of the language.

Course: Biology
Objectives: To survey the major sub disciplines within biology, including: cell transport; cell energy; cell reproduction; genetics; protein synthesis; genetic engineering; evolution; ecology; kingdoms of life. Practice using the scientific method to answer scientific questions.

Expected Outcomes: Students will be able to design, conduct, and analyze data from scientific experiments; write a laboratory report; and apply knowledge of biology to understand current scientific controversies.

Course: Human Performance
Objectives: This course introduces students to exercise physiology. Students learn basic nutrition and biochemistry; muscle anatomy, physiology, and metabolism; cardio-respiratory physiology; and physiological adaptations to training. Students learn how to design and conduct a scientific study.

Expected Outcomes: Students will successfully produce a scientific report detailing the findings of a self-designed research study, demonstrating a solid understanding of the scientific method and basic concepts of exercise physiology.

Course Title: Beginning French
Objectives: This course introduces students to the sounds, basic vocabularies, gestures and cultural notions involved in communicating in the French language. It connects those concepts to France and other francophone regions worldwide .

Expected Outcomes: At the end of Beginning French, a student will be able to:

1. Understand spoken French from various sources.
2. Comprehend short written texts, letters and advertisements.
3. Demonstrate good pronunciation and intonation.
4. Communicate effectively on a variety of topics.
5. Use appropriate present tense forms with ease and accuracy.
6. Respond in writing to stimuli and write simple messages accurately.
7. Recognize a number of symbols and icons of French culture.
8. Describe some aspects of France and other francophone countries.

Course Title: Intermediate French
Objectives: This course continues with work covered in Beginning French, building upon basic skills in oral, verbal, reading and writing skills. It continues to connect those concepts to France and other francophone regions worldwide.

Expected Outcomes: At the end of Intermediate French, a student will be able to: .

1. Understand spoken French from various sources.
2. Comprehend short written texts, letters and advertisements.
3. Demonstrate good pronunciation and intonation.
4. Communicate effectively on a variety of topics.
5. Use appropriate present & past tense forms with ease and accuracy.
6. Respond in writing to stimuli and write simple messages accurately.
7. Recognize a number of symbols and icons of French culture.
8. Describe some aspects of France and other francophone countries.

Course Title: Beginning German
Objectives: This course introduces students to the sounds, basic vocabularies, gestures and cultural notions involved in communicating in the German language. It connects those concepts to Germany and other German-speaking regions worldwide.

Expected Outcomes: At the end of Beginning German, a student will be able to:

1. Understand spoken German from various sources.
2. Comprehend short written texts, letters and advertisements.
3. Demonstrate good pronunciation and intonation.
4. Communicate effectively on a variety of topics.
5. Use appropriate present tense forms with ease and accuracy.
6. Respond in writing to stimuli and write simple messages accurately.
7. Recognize a number of symbols and icons of German culture.
8. Describe some aspects of German-speaking countries.

Course Title: Intermediate German Objectives: This course continues with work covered in Beginning German, building upon basic skills in oral, verbal, reading and writing skills. It continues to connect those concepts to Germany and other German-speaking regions worldwide.

Expected Outcomes: At the end of Intermediate German, a student will be able to:

1. Understand spoken German from various sources.
2. Comprehend short written texts, letters and advertisements.
3. emonstrate good pronunciation and intonation.
4. Communicate effectively on a variety of topics.
5. Use appropriate present & past tense forms with ease and accuracy.
6. Respond in writing to stimuli and write simple messages accurately.
7. Recognize a number of symbols and icons of German culture.
8. Describe some aspects of German-speaking countries.

Course Title: Ceramics
Objectives: Students will be taught through video demonstration, instructor demonstration and hands-on application a variety of methods to produce works in clay. The use of various studio machines including the potter's wheel, slab-roller table, wedging table, and extruder will be introduced through demonstration, hands-on application, handout, text and video. Students will investigate the decorative use of abstracted forms and the management of compositional devises to produce visually balanced works of art. Students will learn about concepts of line, value, color, texture, surface decoration, form, composition and the organization of visual ideas in the creation of a variety of ceramic forms and sculptural pieces. Students will be introduced to the work of artists and potters from various cultures, both historic and contemporary. Students will be supported in forming opinions about and will participate in critiques of their work as well as the work of others. Primary Texts will include such books as Handbuilt Ceramics, Kathy Triplett, Lark Books, New York, 1997, and Ceramics Mastering the Craft, Richard Zakin, Krause Publishing, 2001.

Expected Outcomes: Students gain an understanding and appreciation for work ethic as an important aspect of their success as a student. Students engage with the material by participating in class discussion, asking questions, and/or taking notes. Students display their art work and participate in Peer Critiques to consider each student's production and mastery of presented course materials and techniques. Students complete at least 10 individual pieces, including one pinch pot, one coil form, one slab piece, one piece on the wheel, one utilitarian piece, one decorative piece, one original design, and one replica. Students also complete a Ceramics Journal/Sketch Book which contains the following: any handouts, class notes, sketches of ideas and plans for specific pieces, sketches of what they have created, notes on what glazes they used and how they turned out, and their feelings about what they have done and created in Ceramics. Or, instead of the Journal/Sketch Book, students complete a four page research paper on a topic related to Ceramics.