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St.Benedictat
Auburndale
HighSchool
CurriculumGuide
2017-2018
GENERALINFORMATION
ACT/SATSCORES
Graduationrequirementsincludeallstudents’ACTand/orSATscoresbeingonfilewith
SBAandonthetranscriptcard.Thiscanbeaccomplishedbyenteringinourschoolcode
(430-451)whenregisteringforthesetests.
PREREQUISITES
Anyclasslistedasaprerequisiteforacourseisthelastclassneededtotakethatcourse.
PHYSICALEDUCATION
Schooluniformsarerequiredforallphysicaleducationclasses.InadditiontoWellness,
studentsarelimitedtoonehalfadditionalphysicaleducationcredit.
PLUSCOURSES
Curriculum in PLUS courses include accommodations appropriate for each student.
Teacherreviewofrecordsandtestingwillbeusedincourseplacement.
HONORSCLASSADMISSION
Anystudentcurrentlyenrolledinanhonorscoursethatwantstocontinueinhonorsfor
thatsubjectmatter,musthaveanoverallAorBaverageinthatcurrenthonorscourse,a
signature of recommendation from current honors teacher and parent signature of
approval. With the exception of Math, Science, and Spanish, any student currently
enrolledinatraditionalcoursethatwantstotakeanhonorscourseinthatsamesubject
matter,musthaveanoverallAaverageinthatcurrenttraditionalcourse,signature(s)of
recommendationfromcurrenttraditionalteacherand/orupcominghonorsteacherand
parent signature of approval. In regards to Math, Science, and Spanish, any student
currently enrolled in a traditional course that wants to take an honors course in that
samesubjectmatter,inadditiontotheaboverequirements,maybeaskedtocomplete
an honors entrance test given by that specific department and obtain a grade
determinedbytheappropriatedepartmentchair.
GRADUATINGWITHHONORS
Beginningwiththeclassof2018,anystudentwhosuccessfullycompletesatleast:
2honorscoursesinboththefreshmanandsophomoreyear
3honorscoursesinboththejuniorandsenioryear
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3yearsofforeignlanguage
1extracourseineitherScienceorSocialStudies
3APcoursesthroughouttheirhighschoolcareer
willberecognizedasgraduatingwithhonors.
GRADUATINGWITHAFINEARTSCONCENTRATION
Beginningwiththeclassof2018,anystudentwhosuccessfullycompletes4consecutive
yearsofaFineArt(atleast3inthesamearea)willberecognizedasgraduatingwitha
FineArtsconcentration.
DUALENROLLMENTCOURSEREQUIREMENTS
In order to take a dual enrollment course, students must meet these requirements for
acceptance:
• CumulativeGPAof3.0orhigherinhighschoolcoursework.
• ACTscoreof24orhigherORSATof990orhigher.
• PLANscoreof21orhigherORPSATVerbal/Quantitativescoreof100.
• ForEnglishIVDE,studentsmusthaveatleastaBaverageinHonorsEnglishIII.
Forcontinuationintheprogram,astudentmust:
• MaintainacumulativeGPAof2.75inallDualEnrollmentcoursework.
• Havenooutstandingdebtstotheuniversity.
TuitionandFees:
• For eligible students, the grant pays a certain dollar amount depending on the
numberofcreditstakenusingthegrant.
• Students taking Dual Enrollment courses at their local high school will be billed at
theratepercourse.
• Studentsareresponsibleforthecostofanyrequiredtextbooks.
• Eachstudentpaysanon-refundableservicefeepercourse-includedincoursefees
thattheuniversityrequiresforenrollinginthecourse.
• Alltuitionandfeesmustbepaidbeforethefirstdayofcourses.
ApplicationDeadlines:
• May12,2017totheSBAGuidanceOffice
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ApplicationProcedure:
• Only complete applications will be reviewed. Incomplete applications, including
those missing signatures, official transcripts or requested information, will not be
processed.
• Officialtranscriptsmustbesentdirectlyfromthehighschooltotheuniversity.
• It is the student's responsibility to request transcripts, scores and signatures from
theappropriateoffice.
• Allportionsoftheapplicationsmustbecompleteinorderfortheapplicationtobe
reviewed.Pleasemakesuretoincludesocialsecuritynumberontheapplication.
• Oncetheapplicationhasbeenprocessed,studentswillberegisteredforclassbythe
universitystaffandnotifiedinwritingofstatus.
• ApplyfortheDualEnrollmentGrantonlinethroughtheTSACwebsite.
APTESTING
StudentstakingAPcoursesarerequiredtotaketheAPexamattheendoftheyearin
order to receive AP credit. Each student must be approved to take the exam by the
instructor before the exam date. Any student not approved will be required to take a
finalexamandwillnotreceiveAPcreditfortheclass.
TRANSFERSTUDENTS
All transfer students wanting to enroll in any Math, Science and/or Spanish honors
coursesmusttakehonorstestingregardlessofpreviousclasses.
DROPPING/ADDINGCOURSES
Toreducethenumberofcoursechangeswhichaffectswhetheracoursecanbeoffered,
anystudentrequestmadeafterJune1issubjecttoa$50finepercoursechange.The
last day for students to drop/add a course for the 2017-2018 school year will be
Thursday, August 17. For new 2nd semester classes, the final date to make any class
changes is Friday, January 5 . Final approval for course changes must come from the
DirectorofAcademicAffairs.Aftertheacademicschoolyearhasbegun,inorderfora
student to drop an Honors or AP course before the course change drop date, the
student must obtain a signed note of approval from current honors/AP teacher and
parent. Once the academic school year has begun, if a student is allowed to drop an
honorsorAPcourse,thestudentwillonlyreceivetraditionalcreditfortheentireyear.
Foradditionalinformationorquestions,pleasecontactourcounselingdepartmentor
reviewthestudenthandbook.
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TableofContents
English
6-10
Mathematics
11-14
Science
15-19
STEM
20
SocialStudies
21-26
Theology
27-28
ForeignLanguage
29-33
Computer/TechnologyArts
34-35
Business
36-37
PhysicalEducation
38
FineArts
39-44
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ThefollowingcourseswillbeofferedatSt.BenedictatAuburndaleforthe2017-2018school
year. Please review the items on the following pages to better understand the course
descriptions and requirements. During sophomore, junior and senior year, all Honors/AP
coursesrequireateacherrecommendation,parentsignatureandanAaverageinthecurrent
TraditionalcourseoranAorBaverageinthecurrentHonorscourse.Additionally,ifastudent
iscurrentlyinatraditionalMath,ScienceorSpanishcourse,thestudentmaybeaskedtotake
anentrancetesttobeacceptedintoanHonorscourseforthatsubject.Formoreinformation,
pleaserefertopage2.
English
EnglishIPLUS
Course Description: Provides students with the needed reading, writing, vocabulary and
grammatical skills necessary to develop an understanding of all major types of literature.
Instruction in grammar, composition, vocabulary development, reading comprehension, and
researchtechniquespreparesstudentstomasteranalyticalliteracyandacademicandcreative
writingskills.Someoutsideworksandprojectsarerequired.Avarietyofwritingactivitiesgives
studentstheopportunitytoimprovetheirwritingskills.Variedteachingandlearningstrategies
areusedtoenhancelearningdifferencesofstudentsenrolledintheprogram.
Prerequisite:None
Grade9 1credit
EnglishITraditional
CourseDescription:Introducesstudentstoallmajortypesofliterature.Instructioningrammar,
composition, vocabulary development, reading comprehension, and research techniques
prepares students to master analytical literacy and academic and creative writing skills. Some
outside works and projects are required. A variety of writing activities gives students the
opportunitytoperfecttheirwritingskills.
Prerequisite:None
Grade91credit
EnglishIHonors
Course Description: An introduction to the four-year honors literature program that develops
analyticalskillsusedinnovels,shortstories,poetry,dramasandessays.
It provides the basic terminology used in literary analysis, acquaints students with major
movementsinliterarycriticism,relatesliteraturetootherartsandportraysthedevelopmentof
Western literary heritage from classical mythology to present day. A varied writing program
seekstorefinewritingskills.Researchskillsinthetraditionalaswellaselectronicareasround
outthecurriculumandgivethestudentsmeanstobecomeindependentlearners.
Prerequisites:HighSchoolPlacementTestScores,TranscriptEvaluationGrade91credit
EnglishIIPLUS
Course Description: Presents a survey approach to the study of American literature with a
concentrationonreading,writing,vocabularyandgrammarskills.Novels,shortstories,poetry,
non-fictionanddramaarepresentedforanalysis.Variousoutsidereadingsmaybeusedbythe
instructortoenhancethecurriculum.
Prerequisite:EnglishI Grade10 1credit
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EnglishIITraditional
Course Description: Presents a survey approach to the study of American literature with a
concentrationonreading,writing,vocabularyandgrammarskills.Novels,shortstories,poetry,
non-fictionanddramaarepresentedforanalysis.Variousoutsidereadingsmaybeusedbythe
instructortoenhancethecurriculum.
Prerequisite:EnglishI Grade10 1credit
EnglishIIHonors
Course Description: Presents a genre approach to American literature concentrating on the
American novel and twentieth century poetry, and continuing the study of colonialthrough
nineteenth century poetry, the shortstory and American drama. This course seeks to develop
skills in the area of writing, reading comprehension and grammar as well as analytical and
criticalthinkingskills.
Prerequisite:EnglishI Grade10 1credit
EnglishIIIPLUS
Course Description: Presents a survey approach to the study of British literature with a
concentrationonreading,writing,vocabularyandgrammarskills.Novels,short-stories,poetry,
non-fictionanddramaarepresentedforanalysis.Outsidereadingmaybeusedtoenhancethe
course.
Prerequisite:EnglishII Grade11 1credit
EnglishIIITraditional
CourseDescription:TracingthedevelopmentofBritishliteraturefromitsAnglo-Saxonrootsto
modern literature. Poetry, short stories, novels, drama and non-fiction are presented. Writing
assignments are an important part of this course. Vocabulary and grammar studies are drawn
fromthereadingsandwrittenandoralassignments.
Prerequisite:EnglishII Grade11 1credit
EnglishIIIHonors
Course Description: A survey of British literature with an emphasis on Renaissance literature.
Theworkspresentaconcentrationonhistoryanditsrelationshiptoliteratureoftherespective
periods.Outsidereadingisrequired.AtermpaperisrequiredusingtheMLAformat.Thecourse
preparesstudentsforAdvancedPlacementLiteratureintheirsenioryear.
Prerequisite:EnglishII Grade11 1credit
LanguageandCompositionAP
Course Description: Using British literature and nonfiction works as the base for this course,
juniorhonorstudentswilldevelopskillsnecessarytoread,evaluate,use,andciteprosefroma
variety of contexts. A rigorous writing program will enable students to compose on a college
level keeping in mind subjects, purposes, and audience expectations. A research paper is
required.
APtestingattheendoftheyearisrequired.
Prerequisites:EnglishIIHonors,WritingSample
Grade11
1credit
EnglishIVPLUS
Course Description: A survey of world literature examines poetry, prose, drama, essays and
novels from around the world. Literary movements are related to historical and cultural
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movements. Reading and writing skills are honed to prepare students for college. Varied
teachingandlearningstrategiesareusedtoenhancelearningdifferencesofstudentsenrolledin
theprogram.Aresearchpaperisrequired.
Prerequisite:EnglishIII Grade12
1credit
EnglishIVTraditional
Course Description: A survey of world literature examines poetry, prose, drama, essays and
novels from around the world. Literary movements are related to historical and cultural
movements.Readingandwritingskillspreparestudentsforcollege.Fromtheearliestclassical
epics to modern literature, literary works are examined as they reflect and affect cultures. A
researchpaperisrequired.
Prerequisite:EnglishIII Grade12
1credit
EnglishIVHonors
Course Description: To prepare senior honors students for the rigorous reading demands of
collegeliteraturecourses.Thiscoursepresentspoetry,prose,shortstories,drama,novelsand
analysisofliterarymovementsthroughtimeandacrosscultures.Anextensivereadinglistwith
some selections from the Advanced Placement list of recommended works is used to provide
outsidereadings.Aresearchpaperisrequired.
Prerequisite:EnglishIII Grade12 1credit
EnglishIVDualEnrollmentHonors
Course Description: Dual Enrollment combines English 1010 (fall), English 1020 (spring), and
EnglishIV(SBA/year).English111isacoursedesignedtohelpwiththelearningofterminology,
categories of writing, conventions of writing and the ways and means of writing academic
discourse. This knowledge will come to you from the course text, the instructor and the
classroomactivities.EnglishIVconcentratesonthestudyofworldliterature.TheNamesake,A
ThousandSplendidSuns,CrimeandPunishmentandTheJoyLuckClubwillberead.Thesenovels
will provide opportunities for discussion, quizzes and writing. English is a course designed to
help further polish the critical reading, thinking, and writing skills required of undergraduate
scholars.Throughsuchdesign,thecoursewillhelpwithscholarlyproseandtherichandvaried
languages that are already explored in the next semester, as well as introduce other ways of
writingrequiredofundergraduateintellectuals.Thesewaysofwritingincludebothinterpreting
texts and producing researched academic and argumentative discourse. English 1020 will be
taught in the spring semester and will include a separate syllabus and grading system. Both
courseswillutilizeTheNortonReader.
ForDualEnrollmentcourserequirements,pleasereferto“GeneralInformation”onpages3-4.
Prerequisite:EnglishIII Grade12 1credit
LiteratureAP
Course Description: To prepare senior honor students to pass the Advanced Placement exam,
this course presents poetry, prose, short stories, drama, novels and analysis of literary
movements through time and across cultures. An extensive reading list taken from Advanced
Placement recommended works is used to provide outside readings. A research paper is
required.APtestingattheendoftheyearisrequired.
Prerequisite:EnglishIIIHonors Grade12 1credit
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EnglishElectives
Speech
CourseDescription:Studentsareintroducedtothetechniquesoforalcommunicationthrough
theuseofresearch,organizationandcreativethinkingskills.Studentswillberequiredtomake
oralpresentations.
Prerequisite:None
Grades10,11,12
½credit
Etymology/Mythology
CourseDescription:ThestudyoftheoriginandanalysisofwordsfromGreekandLatinprefixes,
suffixesandrootwords.Thepurposeofthiscourseistoincreasethestudent’sunderstandingof
thestructureofEnglishwordsandwordsfromotherlanguages,aswellashis/hervocabulary
andcommandoflanguage.Inaddition,wewillstudymythologyasitrelatestoourpresentday
vocabulary.
Prerequisite:None
Grades10,11,12
½credit
CreativeWriting
Course Description: This semester class introduces students to all forms of writing poetry and
prose. The class also aims to encourage grammatical skills, vocabulary development, and to
fostercreativethinkingandproblemsolvingthroughlanguage.Italsoconsistsofworkingonand
contributingtotheliterarymagazine.
Prerequisite:None
Grades10,11,12 ½credit
SouthernStudies
CourseDescription:SouthernStudiesisacoursedesignedtostudytheSouthincludingits
culture,peopleandenvironment.Topicscoveredwillinclude,butarenotlimitedto:art,
literature,music,film,historyandfoodoftheSouth.
Preandcorequisite:AmericanLiterature,BritishLiterature
Grade12½credit
ShakespeareinModernContextsI
CourseDescription:ThisclasswillbeanexplorationofsomeofShakespeare’scoreworksand
howtheyhavetranslatedintothemodernage.Wewilllookat:anintroductionto
understandingShakespeare,filmswithalternateornontraditionalinterpretations,graphic
novelsandothermediatoexploretheuseofShakespeareinthe21stcentury.
The students will do group videos, presentations on each play, write 2 essays on interpreting
Shakespeareandatestoneachplay.Attheend,studentswilldoalargegroupprojectcreating
theirownclassinterpretationofoneoftheplaysreadwiththepossibilityoftheclassbuildingits
owngraphicnovelorwebcomic.PlaysstudiedwillincludeHamlet,Midsummer’sNight’sDream,
OthelloandRichardIII.
Prerequisite:EnglishII Grades11,12
½credit
ShakespeareinModernContextsII
CourseDescription:ThisclasswillbeanexplorationofsomeofShakespeare’scoreworksand
howtheyhavetranslatedintothemodernage.Wewilllookat:anintroductionto
understandingShakespeare,filmswithalternateornontraditionalinterpretations,graphic
novelsandothermediatoexploretheuseofShakespeareinthe21stcentury.
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The students will do group videos, presentations on each play, write 2 essays on interpreting
Shakespeareandatestoneachplay.Attheend,studentswilldoalargegroupprojectcreating
theirownclassinterpretationofoneoftheplaysreadwiththepossibilityoftheclassbuildingits
owngraphicnovelorwebcomic.PlaysstudiedwillincludeRichardII,HenneryIVPartI,Romeo
andJulietandTheTempest.ShakespeareIisnotrequiredasaprerequisite.
Prerequisite:EnglishII Grades11,12
½credit
AfricanAmericanLiterature
CourseDescription:Inthiscourse,studentsread,analyzeanddiscussliteraryworksinvarious
formsandmediawrittenbyAfricanAmericans.Beginningwithworkswrittenbyenslaved
African-Americans,thiscourseprovidesasurveyofwritingsrepresentativeofReconstruction,
theriseofthe“NewNegro”,theHarlemRenaissance,blackrealism,modernismand
postmodernism.
Prerequisite:EnglishII Grades11,12
½credit
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Mathematics
AlgebraIPLUS
Course Description: Consists of the traditional Algebra I material and includes operations with
integers, evaluation and simplification of rational and radical expressions and using formulas,
therealnumbersystem,solvinglinearequations,inequalities,andsystemsofequations.Italso
includes performing operations with polynomials and rational expressions, factoring, and
graphinglinearequations,inequalities,andfunctions.
Prerequisite:None
Grade9
1credit
AlgebraITraditional
CourseDescription:Includesoperationswithintegers,evaluationandsimplificationofrational
and radical expressions and formulas, the real number system, solving linear equations,
inequalities, quadratic equations, and systems of equations. It also includes performing
operationswithpolynomialsandrationalexpressions,factoring,andgraphinglinearequations,
inequalities,andfunctions.
Prerequisite:HighSchoolPlacementTestscores
Grade9 1credit
AlgebraIHonors
Course Description: This course consists of the traditional Algebra I material presented at a
challenging and much accelerated pace. This course covers algebraic techniques, important to
future success in advanced mathematics and science classes. It is offered to the talented
mathematics student who plans to take Honors Geometry, Honors Algebra II, Honors PreCalculus, and AP Calculus. In addition to the traditional material, Honors Algebra I students
coveranintroductiontocomplexnumbersandcoordinategeometry.
Prerequisites:HighSchoolPlacementTestScores,
Grade9
1credit
TranscriptEvaluation
GeometryPLUS
CourseDescription:Consistsofthetraditionalgeometrymaterialandincludesthemathematical
structureofgeometry,inductiveanddeductivereasoning,anglerelationships,parallellinesand
planes, congruent triangles and circles. Students learn to apply properties on congruent
triangles, to apply proportions to similar triangles and to apply trig ratios to right triangles.
Othertopicsincludecoordinategeometry,areasofplanefiguresandsurfaceareasandvolumes
ofsolidfigures.
Prerequisite:AlgebraI Grade10
1credit
GeometryTraditional
Course Description: Offering the student an introduction to the fundamentals of Euclidean
Geometry. Topics include the mathematical structure of geometry, inductive and deductive
reasoning, elementary logic, angle relationships, parallel lines and planes, congruent triangles,
polygons, right triangles and trigonometry, and circles. Students learn to write two-column
deductiveproofs,applypropertiesoncongruenttriangles,applyproportionstosimilartriangles,
andusetrigratiostosolveproblems.Othertopicsincludecoordinategeometry,areasofplane
figures,andsurfaceareasandvolumesofsolidfigures.
Prerequisite:AlgebraI Grades9,10
1credit
FRESHMENONLY:HighSchoolPlacementTestScores,
TranscriptEvaluation
Page | 11
GeometryHonors
Course Description: An advanced course developed from undefined terms, definitions,
postulates, and theorems. The fundamentals of Euclidean Geometry are covered with an
emphasis on inductive and deductive reasoning and the nature of proof. Topics include angle
relationships,parallellinesandplanes,congruentandsimilartriangles,polygons,righttriangles
andtrigonometry,andcircles.Othertopicsincludecoordinategeometry,areasofplanefigures,
andsurfaceareasandvolumesofsolidfigures.Inaddition,transformations,constructions,and
thePythagoreanTheoremarecovered.
Prerequisite:An85oraboveaverageinAlgebraIHonorsoranacceptablescoreonaplacement
test. FRESHMAN will be considered by the High School Placement Test Scores and transcript
evaluation.
Prerequisite:AlgebraI Grades9,10 1credit
AlgebraIIPLUS
CourseDescription:AtapacethatisappropriatetothelearningstyleofthePLUSstudent,this
course is designed to reinforce Algebra I skills, graphing linear equations and inequalities,
functions, systems of equations and inequalities, factoring polynomials, solving quadratics,
rational expression and equations, quadratic functions, an introduction to trigonometry, and
ACTprep.
Prerequisite:Geometry
Grade11
1credit
AlgebraIITraditional
CourseDescription:AreviewandcontinuationoftheprincipleslearnedinAlgebraIwith
emphasisplacedonwordproblems.Itcoversalgebraictechniquesimportanttosuccessin
futuremathematicsandsciencecourses.Itincludeslinearequationsandinequalities,factoring,
rationalexpressions,radicalsandrationalnumberexponents,thequadraticformula,complex
numbers,matricesandtheirdeterminantsandtrigonometricfunctions.Italsoincludes
analyzingpolynomials,solvinglinearsystemsandproblemsolving.
Prerequisite:Geometry
Grades10,11
1credit
AlgebraIIHonors
CourseDescription:AreviewandcontinuationoftheprincipleslearnedinAlgebraIwith
emphasisplacedonwordproblems.Itcoversalgebraictechniquesimportanttosuccessin
futuremathematicsandsciencecourses.Thecourseincludesanalyzingandsolvingsystemsof
linearequationsandinequalities,quadraticequationsandinequalitiesandrationalexpressions
andequations.Thecoursealsoexplorespolynomials,radicalexpressions,matrices,trig
functionsandconics.Studentsuseagraphingcalculatortoillustrateandanalyzefunctions,
particularlyexponentialandlogarithmicfunctions.Sequencesandseriesarealsointroduced.
Prerequisite:An85oraboveaverageinGeometryHonorsoranacceptablescoreona
placementtest.SOPHOMORESwhoarecurrentlyintraditionalGeometrymusthaveanAand
therecommendationoftheircurrentteacherandthehonorsteacher.
Prerequisites:GeometryHonors,
Grades10,11 1credit
PlacementTest(Traditional)
AlgebraIIIPLUS
CourseDescription:Thiscourseconsistsofgraphinglinearsystemsandsystemsofinequalities,
functions,quadraticequationsandtheirparabolicgraphs,powersandroots,exponents,review
Page | 12
ofbasicmanipulationofpercents,fractionsanddecimals.Italsoincludesopportunitiesfor
studentstoanalysisreal-worldsituations,hypothesizeaboutsolutionsandjustifyconclusions.
Prerequisite:AlgebraII Grade12
1credit
AlgebraIIITraditional
Course Description: Designed for the math student who wants to keep math skills current for
college entrance tests and college math classes. Topics covered are statistics, graphing linear
systemsandsystemsofinequalities,matrices,functions,quadraticequationsandtheirparabolic
graphs, powers and roots, exponents, logarithms and trigonometry. It also includes review of
basicmanipulationofpercents,fractionsanddecimals.
Prerequisite:AlgebraII,CounselorrecommendationGrade12
1credit
Pre-CalculusTraditional
Course Description: Combines all previously learned mathematical properties into one of
complete analysis. Topics include sequences and series, functions and their graphs, and an indepth study of polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions. In
addition, trigonometric identities, equations and applications are covered. To complete the
course,polarcoordinates,vectors,conics,limitsandderivativesarecoveredaspermits.
Prerequisite:AlgebraII Grades11,12 1credit
Pre-CalculusHonors
Course Description: Prepares students specifically for AP Calculus. It combines all previously
learned mathematical properties into one of complete analysis. Topics include series and
sequences, functions and their graphs, and an in-depth study of polynomial, rational,
exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions. In addition, trigonometric identities,
equations,andapplicationsarecoveredextensively.Tocompletethecourse,polarcoordinates,
vectors, and conic sections are covered. Limits and derivatives are discussed as time permits.
Prerequisite:An85oraboveaverageinAlgebraIIHonorsoranacceptablescoreona
placementtest.
Prerequisite:AlgebraIIHonors
Grades11,12
1credit
CalculusHonors
Course Description: Designed for the student interested in Calculus without emphasis on
theoretical detail found in AP course. The course will incorporate use of algebra, numeric and
geometric concepts, and will include limits, continuity, differentiations, integration and some
discussions of calculus of trigonometric and exponential functions. It will primarily stress
applicationsofderivativesandintegralsastheyrelatetobusiness,economicsandgeometryand
willdevelopproblem-solvingstrategiesrelatedtosuchareas.
Prerequisite:Pre-Calculus
Grade12 1credit
Trigonometry/Statistics
CourseDescription:DesignedforthemathstudentwhohastakenPre-Calculusandisnottaking
AP Calculus. It includes one semester of Statistics and one semester of
Trigonometry.
Prerequisite:Pre-Calculus
Grade12
1credit
Page | 13
CalculusAPAB/BC
Course Description: Designed only for the most capable mathematics students. The concepts
covered include incorporation of basic algebraic, numeric and geometric concepts, limits,
continuity,differentiation,andintegrationbyparts.Alllessonsaretaughtinpreparationforthe
APexamgiveninearlyMaywhichisarequirementforcompletionofthecourse.ABtesttopics
include analysis of slope fields and integration by parts. AP testing at the end of the year is
required.
Prerequisite:Pre-CalculusHonors
Grade12
1credit
StatisticsAP
Course Description: AP Statistics acquaints students with the major concepts and tools for
collecting, analyzing and drawing conclusions from data. Students will frequently work on
projects involving the hands-on gathering and analysis of real world data. Ideas and
computationspresentedhaveimmediatelinksandconnectionswithactualevents. Computers
and calculators will allow students to focus deeply on the concepts involved in statistics. AP
testingattheendoftheyearisrequired.
Prerequisite:Pre-CalculusHonors
Grade12
1credit
MathElectives
ACTPrep:Mathematics
Course Description: This course covers all the mathematical concepts tested on the college
entranceexam,ACT.Itisforthosestudentswhoneedadditionalhelptoscorewellonthistest
and/ortobetterthescoresofthosewithcollegeentranceandmathscholarshipambitions.This
courseisanelectivecourseandneedstobetakeninadditiontotherequiredyearlongmath
course.
Corequisite:AlgebraII Grades11,12 ½credit
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Science
PhysicalSciencePLUS
CourseDescription:DesignedforthePLUSstudent,thisisanintroductorycoursethatinvolves
thestudentinaninvestigationofsomeofthebasicconceptsandprocessesofscience.Theywill
beintroducedtomeasurementandinformationgatheringtechniquesusedbyscientists,along
withanexaminationofbasicprinciplesofphenomenasuchasmotion,gravity,energyandheat.
Labexperimentswillenablethestudentstoinvestigatescientificprinciplesastheyapplytothe
world.
Prerequisite:None
Grade9
1credit
PhysicalScienceTraditional
CourseDescription:Anintroductorycoursethatinvolvesthestudentinaninvestigationofsome
ofthebasicconceptsandprocessesofscience.Therewillbeanintroductiontomeasurement
and information gathering techniques used by scientists, along with an examination of basic
principlesofphenomenasuchasmotion,gravity,energyandheat.Laboratoryexperimentswill
enablethestudentstoinvestigatescientificprinciplesastheyapplytotheworld.
Prerequisite:None
Grade9
1credit
PhysicalScienceHonors
Course Description: An introductory course that involves the student in an investigation of
someofthebasicconceptsandprocessesofscience.Thishonorsclasswillbeanintroductionto
measurement and information gathering techniques used by scientists, along with an
examinationofbasicprinciplesofphenomenasuchasmotion,gravity,energyandheat.Thisfast
pacedclasswillinvolveadditionalprojectsandpapers.Laboratoryexperimentswillenablethe
studentstofurtherinvestigatescientificprinciplesastheyapplytotheworld.
Prerequisites:HighSchoolPlacementTestScores,
Grade9
1credit
TranscriptEvaluation
BiologyPLUS
Course Description: Introduces PLUS students to the world of living things. Students will
experience the content of Biology I through inquiry. Using available technology, students will
investigatetheworldaroundthemanditwillprovidethemwithknowledge,prerequisiteskills
andhabitsneededfordailylivinganddecisionmakingonissuesincludingbiotechnologyandthe
environment.
Prerequisite:PhysicalScience Grade10 1credit
BiologyTraditional
CourseDescription:Introducesstudentstotheworldoflivingthings.Itistheexpectationthat
students will experience the content of Biology through inquiry. Using available technology,
students will investigate the world around them and it will provide them with knowledge,
prerequisite skills and habits needed for daily living and decision making on issues
including biotechnology and the environment. It also provides a background for
advancedbiologicalstudiesandpersonalcareerchoices.
Prerequisites:PhysicalScience Grades9,10
FRESHMENONLY:HighSchoolPlacementTestScores,
TranscriptEvaluation
1credit
Page | 15
BiologyHonors
Course Description: A challenging course designed for the student who anticipates a science
based career, desires an accelerated, comprehensive program and intends to take advanced
courses in science. Instruction will emphasize laboratory investigations, and independent
research and analysis. Students begin with cell biology- its chemistry, structure, function, cell
division and metabolism; botany- photosynthesis, plant formation and function; human
anatomy and physiology; genetics and ecology. A research paper or science project is an
importantrequirement.Thelevelofdifficultyisstrenuous.Theamountofhomeworkrequired
willbeapproximatelyfivehoursperweek.
Prerequisites:PhysicalScience Grades9,10
1credit
FRESHMENONLY:HighSchoolPlacementTestScores,
TranscriptEvaluation
ChemistryPLUS
Course Description: An introductory course to chemistry designed for the PLUS program.
Students,throughguidedinquiry,learncontentandevaluatedatainmakingdecisionsbasedon
theirknowledgeanddata.
Prerequisite:Biology Grade11
1credit
ChemistryTraditional
Course Description: Introduction to the principles and mechanisms of chemistry. After
completingthecourse,studentsshouldhaveanunderstandingofthescientificmethod,history
ofchemistryandmajormilestonesinthedevelopmentofthequantummechanicalmodelofthe
atom.Studentsshouldhaveanunderstandingofbasicinorganicchemicalreactionsandbeable
to solve problems related to chemical process. They will have opportunities to perform
laboratoryexperimentsandlearnlaboratorytechniquesandchemicalsafety.
Prerequisite:Biology Grades10,11 1credit
ChemistryHonors
CourseDescription:Anin-depthcourserecommendedforstudentsplanningstudiesinscience
relatedfieldsatthecollegelevel.Coversthesametopicsasthetraditionalchemistrycourseand
continues with topics covered in university level general chemistry. A strong emphasis on
problem analysis and solving requires more understanding of mathematical principles.
Knowledge and skills are intended to improve students’ ability to make decisions, solve
problems, understand scientific process, show them the interrelationship of chemistry in
everydaylifeandbetterpreparethemforcollege-levelchemistryandothersciences.
Prerequisites:Biology,Geometry
Grades10,11
1credit
ChemistryAP/ChemistryDualEnrollmentHonors
CourseDescription:Studentsinthiscoursewillmeettheobjectivesofagoodcollegechemistry
course. Students should attain a depth of understanding of fundamentals and a reasonable
competenceindealingwithchemicalproblems.Anabilitytothinkclearlyandtoexpresstheir
ideas,orallyandinwriting,withclarityandlogicwillbedevelopedbythestudents.Thenature
andvarietyofexperimentsdoneinthecourseaswellastheemphasisonchemicalcalculations
and the mathematical formulation of principles greatly differs from the usual high school
chemistrycourse.APtestingattheendoftheyearisrequired.
ForDualEnrollmentcourserequirements,pleasereferto“GeneralInformation”onpages3-4.
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Prerequisites:ChemistryHonors,AlgebraIIHonors
Grades11,12
1credit
PhysicsTraditional
Course Description: An introductory high-school level course with emphasis on conceptual
approach with less rigorous mathematics. Topics of classic mechanics as well as waves,
electricity,thermodynamics,andmodernphysicswillbeexplored.
Prerequisites:Chemistry,AlgebraII
Grades11,12 1credit
PhysicsHonors
CourseDescription:Anintroductorycollege-levelcoursewithanemphasisonclassicmechanics
and some discussion of fluid dynamics and electrical theory with an emphasis on problem
solving.Specifically,thesetopicswillbestudiedindetail:1)kinematicsin1and2dimensions2)
circular motion 3) force 4) rotational mechanics5) work and energy 6) linear momentum and
collisions 7) mechanical waves and sound 8) center of mass 9) statistics and equilibrium. All
topics will be covered with full range of mathematical applications and models. However, no
calculusisrequiredforthecourse.
Prerequisites:Chemistry,AlgebraII
Grades11,12
1credit
PhysicsAPC
CourseDescription:AdvancedPlacementPhysicsCconsistsoftwoindividualcoursestaughtin
sequence:PhysicsC:MechanicsandPhysicsC:ElectricityandMagnetism.Eachcourse
correspondstoapproximatelyasemesterofcollegework.Bothcoursesinvolvetheuseof
introductorydifferentialandintegralcalculusthroughoutthecourse.PhysicsC:Mechanics
coversthecontentareas:kinematics;Newton'slawsofmotion;work,energy,andpower;
systemsofparticlesandlinearmomentum;circularmotionandrotation;andoscillationsand
gravitation.PhysicsC:ElectricityandMagnetismcoversthecontentareas:electrostatics;
conductors,capacitorsanddielectrics;electriccircuits;magneticfields;andelectromagnetism.It
issuggested,butnotrequired,thatPhysicsCbetakenasasecond-yearphysicscourseandthat
itbetakenconcurrentlywithacalculuscourseifpossible.
Prerequisites:Physics(Honors,AP,orBpreferred)
Grade12
1credit
(Calculusispreferred)
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ScienceElectives
AnatomyandPhysiologyTraditional
Course Description: Covers the basics of human anatomy and physiology. Emphasis is on the
structure and function of the biological systems of the human body. Subjects covered include
anatomicalterms,histology,skeletal,muscular,nervous,andotherbodysystemsastimeallows.
Appropriate lab work and report writing are essential parts of the course, including cat
dissection.
Prerequisite:Chemistry
Grades11,12 1credit
AnatomyandPhysiologyHonors
Course Description: Covers the basics of human anatomy and physiology. Emphasis is on the
structure and function of the biological systems of the human body. Subjects covered include
anatomicalterms,histology,skeletal,muscular,nervous,andotherbodysystemsastimeallows.
Additional emphasis is made on critical concept thinking. Appropriate laboratory work and
reportwritingareessentialpartsofthecourse,includingcatdissection.
Prerequisite:Chemistry
Grades11,12 1credit
Microbiology
CourseDescription:Anintroductorycoursetomicrobiology.Thestudentwillbeintroducedinto
theworldofbacteria,virusesandfungi.Emphasisisplacedonepidemiology,cellularstructure,
laboratorytesting,controlandgrowthoftheseorganisms.Useoftheinternetisanintegralpart
ofthecoursework.Appropriatelabworkandreportwritingareessentialpartsofthecourse.
Prerequisites:Biology,Chemistry
Grades11,12 ½credit
ForensicScience
CourseDescription:Anintroductorycoursetoforensicscience.Thestudentwillbeintroduced
to the techniques used by forensic scientists. Emphasis will be placed on drawing and
documentingacrimescene,hairanalysis,fiberanalysis,plastercasting,andotherbasicforensic
laboratory techniques. Use of the internet is an integral part of the coursework. Appropriate
laboratorywork,reportwriting,animalhairanalysis,anddiscussionsofagraphicnature(dueto
violence)areessentialpartsofthecourse.
Prerequisite:Chemistry
Grades11,12
½credit
Ecology
Course Description: Designed for students interested in learning basic principles of ecology. It
will cover such topics as organisms, populations, communities and ecosystems. Students will
learn how animals and plants utilize earth’s natural resources and compete for survival. This
coursewillhelpthestudentgainappreciationfornatureandtheconnectionbetweenlivingand
non-living things. Ecology is a science that is rapidly advancing and its contribution will be
necessaryforthesustainabilityofourplanetinthefuture.
Prerequisite:Chemistry
Grade12
½credit
PhysicalGeology
Course Description: Physical Geology is a laboratory science class that deals with the Earth’s
processes.Topicsthatwillbecoveredinthisclassinclude:platetectonictheory,therockcycle
anditseffectsontherocksontheplanet,geologictimeandthegeologictimescale,minerals
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andtheirchemicalcomposition,structuralgeology,masswasting,hydrology,andenvironmental
geology.Thiscoursewillserveasanintroductorygeologycoursewherethestudentwillhave
theopportunitytoseethewidevarietyofEarthsciencesavailableinthefieldofgeology.The
classwillconsistofaseriesoflecturesthatwillbeaccompaniedbyhandsonactivitiesincluding:
mineral identification, geologic mapping, constructing cross sections, ground water and soil
testing,andenvironmentalprojectspertinenttothe21stCentury.
Prerequisite:Chemistry
Grades11,12 ½credit
Astronomy
Course Description: Astronomy stands alongside physics, chemistry, and geology as a physical
science.OurmodernunderstandingoftheUniversecomesfromapplyingourknowledgeofthe
other physical sciences to astronomical phenomena.Astronomy I focuses onthe Solar System
andhistoricalastronomy,theplanets,theSun,andotherplanetarysystems.Thepast20years
has seen an explosion in our understanding of the contents, formation and evolution of the
SolarSystem,mainlyduetonumerousNASAmissions/probestoalleightplanetsandmanyof
thelargermoons.Thestudyofthecharacteristicsoftheotherplanetshasprovidedtremendous
insight into the understanding of how our own planet operates and changes over time. The
specific goals of this class are to gain an understanding of basic science that
underliesAstronomy(the forum is the exploration of our Solar System), to explore the
propertiesoftheobjectsthatmakeupourSolarSystem,andtointroducethebasicforcesand
structureofmatter.
Prerequisites:Geometry,Chemistry Grades11,12
½credit
(Physicsishighlyrecommended)
Oceanography
Course Description: This course explores the major processes and features of the world’s
oceans. The initial focus is to understand the scientific method and the basic principles upon
which oceanography is based. This class is unique in that it integrates the sciences (physics,
chemistry,andearthscience),presentingthemasasingleareaofstudy.Wewillthenusethese
principles to help explain waves, tides, currents, air-sea interaction, and the large-scale ocean
circulation.Wewillconcludewithareviewofdifferentmarineecosystemsandthevarietyoflife
foundinthemarineenvironment.
Prerequisites:Geometry,Chemistry Grades11,12 ½credit
(Physicsishighlyrecommended)
OrganicChemistryHonors
CourseDescription:Astudyofcarboncompoundsisreallythestudyoflifechemistry.Focuswill
beontheimportanceofbonding,alkanes,aromaticcompoundsandfunctionalgroups.Labskills
includedeterminingmeltingandboilingpointsalongwithseparationtechniquesand
characterization.Skillsincriticalthinking,analysisofdataandlabreportswillbe
developed.Biochemistry,metabolicpathwaysalongwithbiologicalsynthesessuchas
gluconeogenesisandDNAtranscriptionareincluded.Wewillstudypropertiesofbio-molecules,
enzymology,bioenergetics,proteinsynthesisandthestructureandpropertiesofmembranes.
MCAT-stylequestionsthatpertaintoorganicchemistryandbiochemistryarereviewed.Thegoal
ofthiscourseistogiveapracticalunderstandingoforganicchemistryandbiochemistryasit
pertainstoaclinicalorengineeringcareer.
Prerequisite:Chemistry
Grades11,12
1credit
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STEM
IntroductiontoEngineeringDesign
CourseDescription:ThisisaSTEMintroductorycoursewherestudentsdigdeepintothe
engineeringdesignprocess,applyingmath,science,andengineeringstandardstohand-on
projects.Thestudentsworkbothindividuallyandinteamstodesignsolutionstoavarietyof
problemsusing3Dmodelingsoftware,anduseanengineeringnotebooktodocumenttheir
work.
Prerequisite:TeacherRecommendationGrades9,10 1credit
PrinciplesofEngineering
CourseDescription:Thiscourseisintendedtobeafollow-oncoursetoIntroductionto
EngineeringDesignbutcanalsobetakenindependently.Throughproblemsthatengageand
challenge,studentsexploreabroadrangeofengineeringtopics,includingmechanisms,
thestrengthofstructuresandmaterials,andautomation.Studentdevelopskillsinproblem
solving,researchanddesignwhilelearningstrategiesfordesignprocess
documentation,collaboration,andpresentation.
Prerequisite:TeacherRecommendationGrades10,11 1credit
IntroductoryMathematicsforEngineeringApplicationsDualEnrollmentHonors
CourseDescription:Thiscourseisdesignedtohelpimproveengineeringstudentsuccess
throughapplication-driven,just-in-timeengineeringmathinstruction.Intendedtobetaughtby
engineeringfacultyratherthanmathfaculty,thecourseemphasizesusingmathtosolve
engineeringproblemsinsteadoffocusingonderivationsandtheory.Thisincludesmathtopics
rangingfromprecalculusandtrigonometrythroughcalculusanddifferentialequationswith
alltopicssetinthecontextofanengineeringapplication.Thiscoursealsoprovidesanoverview
ofthesalientmathtopicsmostheavilyusedinthecorecollege-levelengineeringcourses.These
includealgebraicmanipulationofengineeringequations,trigonometry,vectors,andcomplex
numbers,sinusoidsandharmonicsignals,systemofequations,andmatrices,differentiation,
integration,anddifferentialequations.
ForDualEnrollmentcourserequirements,pleasereferto“GeneralInformation”onpages3-4.
Prerequisite:TeacherRecommendationGrades11,12 1credit
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SocialStudies
WorldHistoryPLUS
CourseDescription:Designedtoteachstudentsaboutthehistoryoftheworldaroundthemand
tohelpstudentsunderstandhowandwhyeventsoccurred.Thiscoursewillcoverthefollowing
areas:EarlyCivilization,EmpiresoftheAncientWorld,RegionalCivilization,EarlyModernTimes,
Industrialism and World Wars and Revolution. A variety of teaching strategies will be used
including,butnotlimitedtonotetaking,outliningchapters,lecturesandmovies.Studentsare
requiredtoparticipateinclassdiscussions,takenoteswhennecessary,andremaincurrentwith
allreadingassignments.
Prerequisite:NoneGrade10
1credit
WorldHistoryTraditional
CourseDescription:Designedtoteachstudentsaboutthehistoryoftheworldaroundthemand
tohelpstudentsunderstandhowandwhyeventsoccurred.Thiscoursewillcoverthefollowing
areas:EarlyCivilization,EarlyModernTimes,EnlightenmentandRevolutions,Industrialismand
World Wars and Revolution. Students will be required to take notes from lectures, outline
chapters and movies, participate in class discussion, and remain current on all reading
assignments.
Prerequisite:NoneGrade10
1credit
WorldHistoryHonors
CourseDescription:Thehonorssectionofthisclassissimilarincontenttothetraditionalworld
historyclass.Oneofthemajordifferenceswillbethelevelofdifficultyoftheassessments.Itwill
teachstudentsaboutthehistoryoftheworldaroundthemandhelpthemunderstandhowand
why events occurred. It will cover the following areas: Early Civilization, Early Modern Times,
EnlightenmentandRevolutions,IndustrialismandWorldWarsandRevolution.Studentswillbe
required to take notes from lectures, outline chapters and movies, participate in class
discussions,andremaincurrentonallreadingassignments.
Prerequisite:None
Grade10 1credit
WorldHistoryAP
Course Description: The purpose of the AP World History course is to develop greater
understanding of human societies. The course highlights the nature of changes in the
international framework and their causes and consequences, as well as comparisons among
major societies. Specific themes provide further organization to the course, along with the
consistentattentiontothecoreofworldhistoryasafieldofstudy.WorldHistoryemphasizes
relevant factual knowledge, leading interpretive issues and types of historical evidence. AP
Worldstudentswillfocusonthemessuchaspoliticalsystems,theroleofideas,economicsand
history, social life and gender issues, the importance of culture, religion in history, the role of
individuals, the impact of science and technology, the environment and history, and the
migrationofpeople.APtestingattheendoftheyearisrequired.
Prerequisite:EnglishIHonors Grade10
1credit
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UnitedStatesHistoryPLUS
Course Description: Designed to teach students the history of the United States from its
beginningstothepresent.Avarietyofteachingstrategieswillbeusedincluding,butnotlimited
tonotetaking,outliningchapters,lecturesandmovies.Studentsarerequiredtoparticipatein
class discussions, to take notes when necessary, and remain current with all reading
assignments.
Prerequisite:WorldHistory
Grade11
1credit
UnitedStatesHistoryTraditional
CourseDescription:Thiscourseisdesignedto study the history of the United States from
colonizationtotheReaganAdministration(over350years).WewillstudyseveralaspectsofUS
History mainly focusing on the political, social, and economic development of this country. In
short,thiscourseisastudyofwhowewere,whoweare,andwhowewillbe.Severalmethods
andtechniquesofteachingandlearningwillbeusedinthisclassincluding:lecture,discussion,
cooperativelearning,independentstudy,andoutsideprojects.
Prerequisite:WorldHistory
Grade11
1credit
UnitedStatesHistoryHonors
Course Description: The honors section of this course is similar in content to the US History
traditional course. One of the major differences will be in the level of difficulty of the
assessments(tests,papers,etc.).Inadditiontothis,studentsinthehonorscoursewillbeasked
to complete two additional assignments throughout the year. Two of these projects will be
written book reviews on historical books assigned to each student in class. A major research
project is an optional assignment due by January to qualify for the National History Day
Competition.
Prerequisite:WorldHistory Grade11
1credit
UnitedStatesHistoryAP
CourseDescription:Thiscourseisdesignedforcollegecreditratherthancollegepreparation.It
issimplyasurveyofthehistoryoftheUnitedStatesfromitscolonialoriginstothepresenttime.
The texts are college level and the class itself is structured along the lines of a college or
university level course. Students are required to take notes in class and on readings, keep up
with reading assignments, answer questions in class based on readings, participate in class
discussions, ask intelligent questions, improve their reading, writing, and testing skills. AP
testing at the end of the year is required. In addition, a major research project will be
completedbyJanuarytoqualifyfortheNationalHistoryDayCompetition.
Prerequisite:WorldHistoryHonors
Grade11 1credit
GovernmentPLUS
Course Description: Designed to give the PLUS student the history, theory and practice of
governmentwithanemphasisontheU.S.Studentswillstudyvariousformsofgovernmentthat
influenced the framers of the United States Constitution and the creation of the “New
Republic.”
Prerequisite:U.S.History
Grade12 ½credit
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GovernmentTraditional
Course Description: Designed to study the history, theory and practice of government with an
emphasis on the U.S. Students will study various forms of government that influenced the
framers of the United States Constitution and the creation of the “New Republic”.
Understanding the Constitution, the activities of government, current political trends and the
roleofcitizenshipwillbeemphasized.
Prerequisite:U.S.History
Grade12½credit
GovernmentHonors
Course Description: Designed as an in depth study of the founding and growth of the U.S.
Government. Students will study and discuss Constitutional theory and look at the individual
rolesofthegovernmentandthoseinelectedoffice.TheU.S.politicalsystemandcurrentissues
willbeanadditionalpartofthecourse.
Prerequisite:U.S.History
Grade12
½credit
GovernmentandPoliticsAP
CourseDescription:ProvidesananalyticalperspectiveongovernmentandpoliticsintheUnited
States. This course involves both the study of general concepts used to interpret U.S. politics
andtheanalysisofspecificcasestudies.Italsorequiresfamiliaritywiththevariousinstitutions,
groups,beliefs,andideasthatconstituteU.S.politicalreality.APtestingattheendoftheyear
isrequired.
Prerequisite:U.S.HistoryHonors
Grade12
½credit
EconomicsPLUS
Course Description: Designed to teach PLUS students the history, theory, and practice of
economicswithanemphasisoncurrenteconomictrendsandpersonalfinance.Studentswillbe
challengedtobetterpreparefortheireconomicfutureaswellastheiracademicfuture.
Prerequisite:U.S.History
Grade12 ½credit
EconomicsTraditional
CourseDescription:Designedtostudythetheoryandpracticeofeconomicswithanemphasis
oncurrenteconomicstrends.Studentswillbechallengedtobetterpreparefortheireconomic
futureaswellastheiracademicfuture.Notonlywillstudentsimprovetheirstudyskills,butthey
willalsoimprovetheirunderstandingandpracticeofeconomics.
Prerequisite:U.S.HistoryGrade12½credit
EconomicsHonors
Course Description: Honors Economics introduces the key principles in both microeconomics
and macroeconomics. The course will cover various models used to analyze how a market
economy allocates scarce resources, supply and demand, and the role of competition in
markets. Additionally, students will use these models to determine the economic effect of
policy actions, both fiscal and monetary, in our society. Students will be expected to apply
principles to real life scenarios to predict outcomes in the economy. Course curriculum will
include economic experiments and discussion of current events that are relative to the
economy.Arecommendationfrommostrecentmathteacherisrequired.
Prerequisite:U.S.History
Grade12 ½credit
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MacroeconomicsAP
Course Description: Designed to give a thorough understanding of the principles of
macroeconomicsthatapplytoaneconomicsystemasawhole.Suchacourseplacesparticular
emphasis on the study of national income and price determination, and also develops your
familiarity with economic performance measures, economic growth, and international
economics.APtestingattheendoftheyearisrequired.Arecommendationfrommostrecent
mathteacherisrequired.
Prerequisite:U.S.HistoryHonors
Grade12
½credit
SocialStudiesElectives
EuropeanHistoryPreAP
Thecourseintroducesstudentstocultural,economic,political,andsocialdevelopmentsthat
playedafundamentalroleinshapingtheworldinwhichtheylive.Withoutthisknowledge,we
wouldlackthecontextforunderstandingthedevelopmentofcontemporaryinstitutions,the
roleofcontinuityandchangeinpresent-daysocietyandpolitics,andtheevolutionofcurrent
formsofartisticexpressionandintellectualdiscourse.Inadditiontoprovidingabasicnarrative
ofeventsandmovements,thegoalsofthePre-APEuropeanHistorycoursearetodevelop(a)an
understandingofsomeoftheprincipalthemesinmodernEuropeanhistory,(b)anabilityto
analyzehistoricalevidenceandhistoricalinterpretation,and(c)anabilitytoexpresshistorical
understandinginwriting.Studentswillreceivehonorscreditforthecourse.
Prerequisites:HighSchoolPlacementTestScores,TranscriptEvaluationGrade91credit
CurrentIssues
Course Description: Designed to further the exposure and knowledge of current
events. Students will learn how to acquire information in a variety of ways and look at this
information critically, helping students understand how to obtain this information on a daily
basis. Using the local and national newspapers, TV, radio, the internet and a variety of other
sources,theywilllearnhowtoacquirethisinformation.
Prerequisite:WorldHistory Grades10,11,12 ½credit
InternationalStudies
Course Description: International Studies is an examination of the global scale of human
activities and the linkages tying the various regions of the world into a single, global system.
Students will focus on world geography, human geography, and international business.
Furthermore,studentswillbeintroducedtothevarietyofapproachestointernationalstudiesin
thesocialsciencesandthehumanities.
Prerequisite:NoneGrades10,11,12
½credit
Sociology
Course Description: Introduces students to the basic concepts, theories and methods of
sociology. Topics include culture, socialization, crime and deviance, social inequality, sexism,
familyandcollectivebehavior.Severalmethodsandtechniquesofteachingandlearningwillbe
used in this class including lecture, discussion, cooperative learning, independent study and
outsideprojects.
Prerequisite:NoneGrades11,12 ½credit
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Psychology(SemesterOnlyCourse)
CourseDescription:Providesanoverviewofthescientificstudyofmentalprocessesandhuman
behavior.Topicsincludethehumanlifespan,sleepandconsciousness,psychologicaldisorders,
andgroupinteraction.Severalmethodsandtechniquesofteachingandlearningwillbeusedin
this class including: lecture, discussion, cooperative learning, independent study and outside
projects.
Prerequisite:NoneGrades11,12 ½credit
Psychology(FullYearCourse)
CourseDescription:Providesanoverviewofthescientificstudyofmentalprocessesandhuman
behavior. Topics include the human life span, sleep and consciousness, memory and
thought,psychological disorders, group interaction, sensation and perception, motivation and
emotion,andpersonality.Severalmethodsandtechniquesofteachingandlearningwillbeused
inthisclassincluding:lecture,discussion,cooperativelearning,independentstudyandoutside
projects.
Prerequisite:NoneGrades11,12
1credit
PsychologyAP
Course Description: This is a course that explores the scientific and systematic study of the
behavior and mental processes of humans. AP Psychology focuses on the development of
awarenessandunderstandingofone'sownbehaviorandthebehaviorofothers.APPsychology
isafull-yearcoursedesignedtoprovidestudentswithabroadoverviewofthediversefieldof
psychologyandpreparestudentsfortheAPPsychologyExamgiveninMay.Inordertoachieve
these goals, the majority of class time will be devoted to lectures, discussions and extensive
reviewsessions.However,timewillalsobeallocatedfordemonstrations,experimentsandclass
activities; the content of which may or may not be covered in the text. Active participation in
these activities will help clarify certain areas of study. AP testing at the end of the year is
required.
Prerequisite:MusthaveapprovalfromPsychologyteacheronly
Grades11,121credit
SeniorInternship
CourseDescription:Partnershipprogramwithlocalmerchants/businessesofferingSBAseniorsa
learning experience, giving them a glimpse at professional responsibilities associated with
careersofinteresttothem.Seniorsserveasassistantsorapprenticestopracticingprofessionals
in government, business, education, health, arts, engineering, law, civic affairs and other
communityrelatedfields.StudentsapplyforacceptancetotheprograminMarchoftheirjunior
year.Studentsareresponsibleforfindinganacceptablelocationfortheirinternship.Afterbeing
accepted,theyselecttoparticipateinthefallorspringsemesteroftheirsenioryear.Requires
twoclassperiodsintheday.
Prerequisite:InterviewwithSeniorCounselororAcademicDean
Grade12 1credit
SeminarAP
CourseDescription:APSeminarisafoundationalcoursethatengagesstudentsincrosscurricularconversationsthatexplorethecomplexitiesofacademicandreal-worldtopicsand
issuesbyanalyzingdivergentperspectives.Usinganinquiryframework,studentspractice
readingandanalyzingarticles,researchstudies,andfoundational,literary,andphilosophical
texts;listeningtoandviewingspeeches,broadcasts,andpersonalaccounts;andexperiencing
artisticworksandperformances.Studentslearntosynthesizeinformationfrommultiple
Page | 25
sources,developtheirownperspectivesinwrittenessays,anddesignanddeliveroralandvisual
presentations,bothindividuallyandaspartofateam.Ultimately,thecourseaimstoequip
studentswiththepowertoanalyzeandevaluateinformationwithaccuracyandprecisionin
ordertocraftandcommunicateevidence-basedarguments.
Prerequisites:Honors/APWorldHistory(APpreferred),HonorsEnglishII,Instructor
Permission Grade11
1credit
FoundationsofWesternPoliticalPhilosophyHonors
CourseDescription:Thiscourseprovidesacriticalanalysisofclassicalandcontemporary
theoriesofpoliticalsystems,includingdiscussionofpresent-dayapplications.Thecourse
examinesdebatesaboutjusticeprominentinpoliticalphilosophy,andinvitesstudentsto
subjecttheirownviewsonthesecontroversiestocriticalexamination.Theprinciplereadingsfor
thecoursearetextsbyAristotle,Plato,JohnLocke,ImmanuelKant,JohnStuartMill,andJohn
Rawls.OtherassignedreadingsincludeexcerptsfromJeremyBenthamandcontemporary
writerssuchasRobertNozick,RonaldDworkin,AlasdairMacIntyre,MichaelSandel,andMichael
Walzer.ThiscourseisdesignedforSeniorswithacollegiateinterestinPoliticalScience,Economics,orPre-Law,and
itprovidesanaturaltransitiontoAPGovernment.
Prerequisites:HonorsorAPUnitedStatesHistory(APpreferred),HonorsorAPEnglishIII(AP
preferred),InstructorPermission,EnrolledinAPUSGovernmentGrade12 ½credit
PracticalLaw/MockTrial
CourseDescription:ThiscoursewillfocusonpracticallawaswellasMockTrial.Inthepractical
lawaspect,wewillstudyCriminalLaw,CivilLaw,HumanRightsandperhapsFamilyLaw.Inthe
MockTrialaspectwewillconducttrialsasbothattorneysandwitnessesandallthatthatentails.
Thecoursewillenablestudentstosharpentheiranalyticalskills,persuasivewritingand
speaking,researchandmocktrialparticipation.Therewillbeafieldtriportwoandpossibly
guestspeakers.Onlineresearchandpositionpaperswillberequired.
Prerequisite:None
Grades11,12 ½credit
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Theology
FreshmanTheologyTheChurch,ASacramentofSalvationandOurMoralLifeinChrist
CourseDescription:ThepurposeofthisclassistointroducethestudenttothemysteryofJesus
Christasthemysticalbody,theChurch.StudentsgrowtounderstandChristastheystudythese
threeareas:whatCatholicsbelieve,therelationshipbetweenfaithandreason,andageneral
introductiontoDivineRevelationasseeninSacredScripture.ThestudyofScriptureandCatholic
TraditionwilllayafoundationforthestudenttodeveloparelationshipwithJesusChrist.The
introductiontoScripturewillpreparethestudentfordeeperScripturestudiesinsophomore
theology.Jesushasaparticularloveandplanforeachperson’slife,andinlightofthisfact,the
student’ssecondsemesterwillalsoincludeanintroductiontomorality.Servicehourswillbe
required.
Prerequisite:NoneGrade9 1credit
SophomoreTheologyScriptureandOurMoralLifeinChrist
CourseDescription:ThroughadeeperstudyofSacredScripture(bothOldandNewTestaments),
thestudentslearnthenatureofthecovenantGodhaswithmanandwhatthismeansfortheir
personalrelationshipwithChrist.StudentswillbetaughthowtoreadtheBible,becoming
familiarwithitsmajorbooksandsections.ThroughtheirBiblicalstudy,theywillunderstandthe
importanceofHebrewScriptureswhileseeingtheirfulfillmentintheNewTestamentandthe
PersonofJesusChrist.Studentswillalsocontinuetheireducationinmoralityinordertodevelop
adeeperunderstandingofwhotheyareasyoungmenandwomen.Servicehourswillbe
required.
Prerequisite:FreshmanTheology
Grade10
1credit
JuniorTheologyEncounteringChristintheChurch:ChurchHistoryandSocialDoctrine
CourseDescription:ThisclassintroducesthestudentstothebodyofChrist,theChurch.Through
acomprehensivestudyofthe2000yearsofCatholicChurchhistory,thestudentswill
understandthenatureoftheChurchandtheircalltobelongtothiscommunityofbelievers
whilebearingwitnesstotheworld.TopicsinChurchHistoryincludethefoundationoftheearly
church,theriseofmonasticism,theDarkAges,theMiddleAges,riseofChristendom,the
ProtestantReformation,andtheChurchinNorthAmerica.Continuingthemoraleducationof
ourstudents,juniortheologywilllookspecificallyatChurchSocialTeachingtoseewhatit
meanstoliveoutthemoralproposalsoftheChurch.Servicehourswillberequired.
Prerequisite:SophomoreTheology
Grade11
1credit
SeniorTheologyTheologySeminar
CourseDescription:Thepurposeofthisclassistohelpthestudentsunderstandhowtoliveout
theirfaithasadults.Thisclasswillprovideanintroductiontohumanity'slongstandingquestions
regardingthenatureoftheworldandexistence.Studentswillencounteranswerstothese
questionsastheyhavebeenproposedbysomeofthemostinfluentialthinkersthroughout
history,including:Plato,Aristotle,Aquinas,Ockham,Kant,andothers.Withanemphasisonthe
principlesofmoralityandtheirapplicationtomodernlife,thisclasswillalsocovertheuniversal
calltoholinessandhowitrelatestoone'svocation,aswellaselementsinComparative
TheologyandEcumenism.Theseminarstylewillhelpstudentsevaluatetheirownthoughtson
eachparticulartopic,andultimately,deepentheirunderstandingandengagementwiththe
questionsproposed.Whileteachingthestudentstoprepareforclassaswellashowtocritically
Page | 27
readandexamineatext,theseminarformatwillalsohelpthemlearnhowtoengageina
positiveandrespectfuldiscussionwiththeirpeers,whilefosteringself-knowledgeandgrowthin
virtue.Servicehourswillberequired.
Prerequisite:JuniorTheology Grade12
1credit
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ForeignLanguage
Spanish1PLUS
Course Description: Introduces students to listening, speaking, reading and writing Spanish
through a multi sensory approach to acquisition of vocabulary and grammar. A study of the
history, culture and customs of Spanish speaking countries is also incorporated. Students may
elect to travel to a Spanish speaking country in order to broaden their knowledge and
understanding of the language and culture. This course will utilize a variety of educational
techniquestoenhanceacquisitionforthePLUSlearner.
Prerequisite:NoneGrades9,10,11 1credit
SpanishITraditional
Course Description: Introduces students to listening, speaking, reading and writing Spanish
through a multi sensory approach to acquisition of vocabulary and grammar. A study of the
history, culture and customs of Spanish speaking countries is also incorporated. Students may
elect to travel to a Spanish speaking country in order to broaden their knowledge and
understandingofthelanguageandculture.
Prerequisite:NoneGrades9,10,11,12 1credit
SpanishIIPLUS
Course Description: Review of basic Spanish vocabulary and grammar taught in Spanish I. The
course will continue to utilize a multi sensory approach to expand language acquisition.
Studentswillbegintoacquirepasttense,utilizenewgrammarstructures,increasevocabulary,
and learn more about the culture of the Hispanic world. Students may elect to travel to a
Spanish speaking country in order to broaden their knowledge and understanding of the
languageandculture.
Prerequisite:SpanishIGrades10,11,12
1credit
SpanishIITraditional
CourseDescription:ContinuesthemultisensorylearningprocessfromSpanishI,incorporating
listening, speaking, reading and writing Spanish. Students will acquire the past tenses, expand
vocabulary and utilize new grammar structures. The second year continues to broaden the
student’sunderstandingofthehistoryandcultureoftheHispanicworld.Studentsmayelectto
traveltoaSpanishspeakingcountryinordertobroadentheirknowledgeandunderstandingof
thelanguageandculture.
Prerequisite:SpanishIGrades9,10,11,12 1credit
SpanishIIHonors
CourseDescription:DesignedforlinguisticallytalentedstudentsasacontinuationofSpanishI
withgreateremphasisonallcommunicationskillsincludingadvancedgrammarandvocabulary.
Students will acquire the past tenses and be introduced to the future tense. The second year
continues to broaden the student’s knowledge of the history and the culture of the Hispanic
world. Students may elect to travel to a Spanish speaking country in order to broaden their
knowledgeandunderstandingofthelanguageandculture.
Prerequisite:SpanishIGrades9,10,11,12
1credit
Page | 29
SpanishIIITraditional
Course Description: Review Spanish grammar and vocabulary taught in Spanish I and II.
Emphasizes increased skills in reading, conversation and fluency in Spanish. Using the multi
sensory approach, students are taught more complex grammar structures and sequencing the
targetlanguage.Thethirdyearcontinuestobroadenthestudent’sknowledgeofthehistoryand
cultureoftheHispanicworldthroughliteratureandfilm.Studentsgraduallyacquirecontrolof
the language. Students may elect to travel to a Spanish speaking country in order to broaden
theirknowledgeandunderstandingofthelanguageandculture.
Prerequisite:SpanishII
Grades10,11,12 1credit
SpanishIIIHonors
CourseDescription:ReviewSpanishgrammarandvocabularytaughtinSpanishIandII.Students
willbetaughtmorecomplexgrammarstructures,includingthesubjunctiveandsequencingof
tenses. Emphasis is on listening, discussing, and reading in the target language. Students
gradually acquire control of the language. Students may elect to travel to a Spanish speaking
countryinordertobroadentheirknowledgeandunderstandingofthelanguageandculture.
Prerequisite:SpanishII Grades10,11,12
1credit
SpanishIVHonors
CourseDescription:ThiscourseinconductedinSpanishandincludesworkinculture,grammar,
conversation and composition. Students continue their progression of reading and writing
storiesinSpanish.StudentswillreadavarietyofSpanishliterature.Studentsmayelecttotravel
to a Spanish speaking country in order to broaden their knowledge and understanding of the
languageandculture.
Prerequisite:SpanishIIIHonorsGrades11,12 1credit
SpanishAP
Course Description: Using authentic materials and sources, the course helps students develop
proficiencyandintegratetheirlanguageskills.Studentswhoenrollshouldalreadyhaveadeep
knowledgeofthelanguageandculturesofSpanish-speakingpeoplesandshouldhaveattaineda
reasonable proficiency in using the language. The students will learn to comprehend Spanish
intendedfornativespeakersinavarietyofsettingsandspeakSpanishcomprehensibletonative
speakers.APtestingattheendoftheyearisrequired.
Prerequisite:SpanishIIIHonors
Grades11,12 1credit
GermanITraditional
CourseDescription:Thiscourseisdesignedtogivestudentsabasicunderstandingand
introductiontotheGermanlanguageandculture.Wewillfocusongrammar,vocabularyand
languageacquisitionthroughtraditionlanguageacquisitionapproaches(directinstruction)and
theuseoftotalphysicalresponse(TPR).Overthecourseoftheyearavarietyoftopicswillbe
coveredincluding(butnotlimitedto),school,family,free-timeactivities,weather,andfood.
Studentswillbegivenbothwrittenandoralassignments,andwillalsobegradedon
participation.Studentsareencouragedtoengagewiththelanguageinasmanywaysas
possible.
Prerequisite:NoneGrades9,10,11,12
1credit
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GermanIITraditional
CourseDescription:ThiscoursewillbuildontheknowledgeandskillsacquiredinGermanI.Asin
firstyearGerman,wewillfocusonlistening,speakingandwritingskillsandgrammar.Thegoal
istoreachanintermediatelevelofcompetencewithstudentsabletodiscuss,writeaboutand
respondtoavarietyoftopicsusingpast,presentandfuturetenses.Topicswillinclude,butare
notlimitedto,hobbies,travel,shopping,directions,healthandfitness,andclothing.Students
willbegivenbothwrittenandoralassignmentsincludingwritingandperformingskits,reading
andrespondingtotextsandcreatingandexplainingvisualaidsusingGerman.Studentswillalso
begradedonparticipation,sowhileaccuracyistheultimategoal,communicationinGerman
andeffortarerewarded.
Prerequisite:GermanI Grades10,11,12
1credit
GermanIIIHonors
CourseDescription:Thiscourse’sgoalistoexpandandmasterpreviousGermanskillsstudents
haveacquired.Therewillbeincreasedfocusonwritten,oralandcomprehensionskills.This
coursewillalsofocusmoreonculturalcharacteristics,withstudentsdoingvariousassignments
includingwrittenandoralpresentationsonavarietyoftopics.Inadditiontohomeworkand
otherlargerassignments,classparticipationwillbeanimportantpartofstudentgrades.In
additiontoreviewingandperfectingpast,presentandfuturetense,subjunctiveandnarrative
pastwillalsobecovered.Additionallycase,adjectiveendingsandderwordswillbetaughtwhile
focusingonthefollowingtopics:HealthandWellness,Germanfairytales,politicalsystem,food
andhistory.
Prerequisite:GermanII
Grades11,12
1credit
GermanIVHonors
CourseDescription:Thiscourse’sgoalistoexpandandmasterpreviousGermanskillsstudents
haveacquired.Therewillbeincreasedfocusonwrittenandoralskillsaswellascomprehension
skills.WewillreadGermanliteratureaswellasresearchvarioustopicsconnectedtoGerman
historyandculture.Whilethefirstsemesterisdevotedtotrulymasteringmuchofthegrammar
coveredinpreviousyears,thesecondsemesterisapplication.Studentswilldovarious
assignmentsincludingwrittenandoralpresentationsonavarietyoftopics,studentled
discussions,andfilm/literaryanalysis.Inadditiontohomeworkandotherlargerassignments,
classparticipationwillbealargepartofstudentgrades.
Prerequisite:GermanIIIHonors
Grade12
1credit
FrenchITraditional
Course Description: Introduces students to listening, speaking, reading and writing French
thoughamultisensoryapproachtoacquisitionofvocabularyandgrammar.Studentsalsohear
andreadstories,hearandsingsongs,hearandseeinstructionalaudioandvideopresentations.
They also learn the history, culture and customs of France and the French-speaking lands
throughreadingsandfilms.TripstoFranceforanopportunitytospeakthelanguageandseethe
splendorofthelandarescheduledwhentheworldsituationseemssafeenoughtotravel.
Prerequisite:None
Grades9,10,11,12
1credit
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FrenchIITraditional
Course Description: Continues the multi-sensory learning process from French I by continuing
thelistening,speaking,readingandwritingskills.Studentscontinuetoexpandtheirstudyofthe
language through studying the history and culture of France and the lands where French is
spoken. They continue to hear and read stories, hear and sing songs and hear and see
instructionalaudioandvideopresentationstoassisttheminthelearningofthelanguage.They
alsocontinuetoexploreFrenchcuisine,fashion,musicandart,andtheymaytraveltoFrance
whentheworldsituationpermits.
Prerequisite:FrenchI Grades10,11,12
1credit
FrenchIIHonors
Course Description: Designed for linguistically talented students as a continuation of French I
with greater emphasis on communication and writing skills. Two research presentations (oral
andwritten)arerequired.
Prerequisite:FrenchI Grades10,11,12
1credit
FrenchIIIHonors
Course Description: Continues the multi-sensory learning process from French II by continuing
thelistening,speaking,readingandwritingskills.Studentscontinuetoexpandtheirstudyofthe
languagethroughreadingandlecturesontheliterature,historyandcultureofFranceandthe
landswhereFrenchisspoken.Theycontinuetohearandreadstories,hearandsingsongs,and
hear and see instructional audio and video presentations to assist them in the learning of the
language.Moretimeisspentwithpronunciationdrillsandwritingassignmentsbecomemore
complex.They alsocontinuetoexploreFrenchcuisine,fashion,musicandart,andtheymay
traveltoFrancewhentheworldsituationpermits.Onequarterisdevotedtothestudyofthe
novel,LePetitPrince.
Prerequisite:FrenchIIGrades11,12
1credit
FrenchIVHonors/DualEnrollmentHonors
CourseDescription:Continuesthemulti-sensorylearningprocessfromFrenchIIIbycontinuing
thelistening,speaking,readingandwritingskills.Studentscontinuetoexpandtheirstudyofthe
language through reading and research assignments on the literature, history and culture of
France and the lands where French is spoken. More time is devoted to pronunciation and
writing.Theycontinuetohearandreadstories,hearandsingsongs,hearandseeinstructional
audioandvideopresentations,andtheyworkwithnumerousstudypropstoassisttheminthe
learningofthelanguage.TheyalsocontinuetoexploreFrenchcuisine,fashion,musicandart,
andtheymaytraveltoFrancewhentheworldsituationpermits.
Prerequisite:FrenchIIIHonors Grade12
1credit
LatinITraditional
Course Description: In addition to learning the Latin language,focus will also be on learning
aboutlifeinAncientRomeandItaly,andGreekandRomanmythology.ThestudyofLatinwill
help tremendously withvocabulary and grammaras well aslogic skills. All of these skills are
beneficialinacademicstudiesandoncollegeentranceexams.
Prerequisite:None
Grades9,10,11,12
1credit
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LatinIITraditional
CourseDescription:ContinuesbuildingonLatingrammarandvocabularyacquiredinfirstyear.
It offers a more complex knowledge of syntactical principles, additional study of Roman life,
culture history, literature and art through the translations of The Aeneid and The Odyssey.
ProjectswillincludeexploringthelivesoftheCaesarsandemperors.
Prerequisite:LatinIGrades10,11,12 1credit
LatinIIHonors
Course Description: Begins with the same curriculum as Latin II Traditional with additional
requirements. These include but are not limited to summer reading of one of the books
suggestedbytheinstructor,anadditionalresearchproject,andtranslationofachildren’sbook
intoLatin.
Prerequisite:LatinI
Grades10,11,12 1credit
LatinIIIHonors
CourseDescription:ContinuestobuildonknowledgeacquiredinLatin1and2withafocuson
Roman literary heritage. Translations will include Hercules 12 Labors. Projects will stem from
informationacquiredinthetranslations.Summerreadingrequirement.
Prerequisite:LatinIIorTeacherrecommendationGrades11,12 1credit
LatinIVHonors
CourseDescription:Continuesandexpandsonalltheabove.Studentswillreadselectionsfrom
JasonandtheArgonautsandOedipus.ProjectswillincludemakingLatinalive.Summerreading
requirement.
Prerequisite:LatinIIIHonors Grade12
1credit
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Computer/TechnologyArts
IntegratedStudies
CourseDescription:Thiscourseisanintegratedcoursedesignedtoimprovemathbasics,study
skills,keyboardingbasics,andresearchtechniques.
Prerequisite:None
Grade9
1credit
IntegratedStudiesII
CourseDescription:Thiscourseisanintegratedcoursedesignedtohelpwithmathandscience
skillsforsophomorestudents.Thecoursewillalsohelptoimprovestudyskills,researchskillsas
wellastesttakingskills.Studentsmaysignupwithcounselorpermission.Thisisasemester
course.
Prerequisite:CounselorapprovalGrade10½credit
Computer
Course Description: This full year course provides the student with an in-depth application of
MicrosoftWordandPowerPoint.MicrosoftExcel,graphicmanipulation,sound/musicmixing,
andscanningtechniquesarestudiedaswell.Studentslearnpracticalapplicationsthatwillaid
theiracademicandprofessionalcareers.
Prerequisite:NoneGrades9,10,11,12
1credit
MovieMaking
CourseDescription:Readytomakeyourownmovie,musicvideo,ordocumentary?Howabout
learningtocreateyourownmusicmix,narrationorvoicesfor(CD’s),soundtracks,cartoons,or
commercials?Inthisprojectbasedcourse,studentswilluseseveralcomputereditingprograms
toproducemoviesandaudiorecordings.Studentswilllearnandexperiencethestarttofinish
productionprocessincludingideabrainstorming,scriptwritingandstoryboarding,filmingand
audiorecording,acting,computer/videoediting,andvideo,CD,orDVDproduction.
Prerequisite:None
Grades10,11,12
½credit
WebPageDesign
Course Description: The course will cover basic web capabilities. HTML, Front Page and Word
will be used to teach the students the fundamentals of web design. Students will create both
individualandclasswebsites.
Prerequisite:None
Grades10,11,12
½credit
DigitalArtI
CourseDescription:Thiscourseisintendedtointroducestudentstobasicdigitalimaging
manipulationskillsandcreativeexpression.Focusondigitalimagingmanipulationtechniques
learnedwithinaraster-basedenvironment,primarilyincludingthefundamentalsofvarious
specialeffects,filters,layersandmasksusedtoexplorethecreationofartisticallyexpressive
images.StudentswilluseGIMP(GNUImageManipulationProgram)tocreateoriginalartina
varietyoffinaloutputformats.
Prerequisite:None
Grades10,11,12
½credit
Page | 34
DigitalArtII
CourseDescription:DigitalArtIIisacoursethatcontinuesthebasicprinciplesanddesign
processlearnedinDigitalArtI.Uponcompletionofthiscourse,studentswillbeabletoperform
advancedsoftwareoperationstocreatephotographsandillustrationsofincreasingcomplexity.
Studentswillusedesignprinciplestocreatelayoutsforavarietyoffinaloutputformats.
Prerequisite:DigitalArtI
Grades10,11,12 ½credit
SocialMediaBrandingandContentProduction
CourseDescription:Thiscourseexploresmoderntrendsinsocialmediawhiledevelopinga
professionalimage.Usingthismaterial,studentswillcoveraspectsofcontentproducingforthe
Internetwhilerepresentingthestudentsandtheschool.Studentsproduceweeklycontentin
theformofYouTubevideos,livetweetingvariousschoolevents,andotherformsofsocial
mediacontentfromthestudentbody.Thisclasswillrequireextensivetimeoutsideofthe
classroomforvariousschoolfunctions.Thegoalistohelpthestudentsbetterunderstandtheir
digitalimageandtheimageoftheschoolwhileproducingcontentforSBA.
Prerequisite:Byapplication
Grade12 1credit
Page | 35
Business
Accounting
Course Description: Accounting introduces concepts and principles based on a double-entry
system of maintaining the manual financial records for a sole proprietorship, partnership and
corporation. It includes analyzing business transactions, journalizing, posting, and preparing
worksheets and financial statements. Additionally, the student will learn about careers in
accounting as well as network with the Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants.
Completion of this course will serve as college prep for the beginning level college accounting
course.
Prerequisite:NoneGrades10,11,12
1credit
BusinessFundamentals
CourseDescription:Designedforthestudentwhoiscontemplatingabusinessbasedcareer.All
major academic areas of business administration are introduced including economics, ethics,
management, accounting, finance and marketing. Business structure will also be emphasized.
The student will have a basic introduction to business concepts to be better prepared for a
collegebusinessmajorortoengageinastartupcompany.
Prerequisite:None
Grades10,11,12 ½credit
PersonalFinance
Course Description: Designed to give students the life skills necessary to understand the
financialdecisionsthatfaceadults.Studentswilllearnhowtosetupabudget,writechecksand
balance a bank statement, buy a car or home, save for retirement and make decisions about
insurance and investments. Financial calculations such as loan payment amounts, compound
interest and the time value of money will be demonstrated in detail. The students will be
dividedintoco-opgroupsthatwillsimulatedifferenthouseholdsituationstoapplythefinancial
conceptsofthecourse.Inaddition,studentswillparticipateinTheStockMarketGame.
Prerequisite:None
Grades10,11,12
½credit
Marketing
Course Description: Designed to investigate the psychology of the consumer in depth as it
relates to marketing for businesses. Advertising and marketing techniques will be studied for
different demographic distributions. Students will learn to identify target markets and adapt
marketing concepts specific for those markets. All types of marketing media will be studied
includingTV,radio,printedads,massmailingsandwebpages.
Prerequisite:None
Grades10,11,12
½credit
Journalism/Newspaper
Course Description: Students willlearnthebasicfundamentalsofjournalismincludingwriting,
proofreading, layout, photography, journalism ethics and design. Students will use Photoshop
andInDesigntoproducetheschoolnewspaper.
Prerequisite:Byapplication Grades9,10,11,12
1credit
Page | 36
Yearbook
CourseDescription:Studentswillcreateayearbookwhichreflectsthecampusactivitiesforthat
schoolyear.TheywilluseStudioWorksandPhotoshopanddevelopatheme,designthecover
and end sheets, create a workable ladder, finalize completed pages electronically, and meet
publicationdeadlines. Prerequisites:ByapplicationGrades9,10,11,12 1credit
Page | 37
PhysicalEducation
Wellness
CourseDescription:Providesstudentsopportunitiestoacquireknowledgeofstrategiesofteam
sportplay,developskillsinselectedteamsports,andmaintainand/orimprovepersonalfitness.
It also includes the knowledge of application of skills, techniques, strategies, rules and safety
practicesnecessarytoparticipateinselectedteamsports.Theyalsoacquireknowledgeofthe
significanceoflifestyleonone’shealthandfitness.
Prerequisite:None Grade9
1credit
InjuryCare
Course Description: Offered to teach students knowledge and skills relating to the nature,
prevention,careandrehabilitationofathleticinjuriesthatcanbeusedinrecreationalpursuits
today as well as later in life. It will include knowledge of injury prevention, identification,
management and rehabilitation, knowledge of anatomy physiology as it relates to athletic
injuriesandknowledgeofconditioningmethods.
Prerequisite:Wellness Grades10,11,12
½credit
WeightTraining
CourseDescription:Opportunitytoacquireknowledgeandskillsinweighttrainingthatcanbe
usedinphysicalfitnesspursuitstodayaswellaslaterinlife.Itwillimprovemuscularstrength,
enduranceandfurtherenhancebodyimage.
Prerequisite:Wellness Grades10,11,12
½credit
RecreationalActivities
Course Description: Students will acquire knowledge and skills in a variety of recreational
activities that may be used in recreational pursuits today as well as later in life, maintaining
and/orimprovingtheirpersonalfitness.
Prerequisite:Wellness Grades10,11,12
½credit
Page | 38
FineArts
***MostclassesintheFineArtsDepartmentrequirestudentstoattendatleastonetheatrical
performanceayear.MusicandBandclassesmayalsorequirestudentparticipationoutsideof
regularclasshours.
Music
ConcertChoir
Course Description: Concert Choir is a vocal performing ensemble that focuses on vocal
development through the exploration of a variety of vocal/choral styles (classical, modern,
tribal, world, etc.). Performers learn proper tone production, basic music theory, and
musicianship,performmulti-partmusicalselections,aswellasexplorethelargerworldofmusic
in general. Performers must perform in all concerts, festivals, competitions, and other venues
deemedmandatorybythedirector(thefinalconcerteachsemesterservesas80%ofthefinal
examforthatgivensemester).Performersarerequiredtopurchasepre-selectedconcertattire.
Depending on the school's calendar for the given year, this choir is a touring group and may
have out of town trips to perform at schools and colleges, in other cities, and/or compete at
competitionsoutofstate.
Prerequisite:NoneGrades9,10,11,12
1credit
Women’sChorale
Course Description: Women's Chorale is an advanced vocal performing ensemble that focuses
deeperonvocalpedagogythroughtheexplorationofavarietyofvocal/choralstyles(classical,
modern, tribal, world, etc.). Performers learn more about proper tone production and vocal
technique, music theory, and musicianship, perform multi-part musical selections, as well as
explorethelargerworldofmusicingeneral.Performersmustperforminallconcerts,festivals,
competitions, and other venues deemed mandatory by the director (the final concert each
semesterservesas80%ofthefinalexamforthatgivensemester).Performersarerequiredto
purchasepre-selectedconcertattire.Dependingontheschool'scalendarforthegivenyear,this
choirisatouringgroupandmayhaveoutoftowntripstoperformatschoolsandcolleges,in
other cities, and/or compete at competitions out of state. This group is limited to 12-16
performers.
Prerequisite:Auditionisrequired;ConcertChoirGrades10,11,121credit
VocalFusion
Course Description: Vocal Fusion is an advanced vocal performing ensemble that meets after
school, with regularly scheduled weekly rehearsals, that focuses deeper on vocal pedagogy
through the exploration of vocal/choral styles that predominately focus on jazz, modern, pop,
and multicultural music (most music is performed a cappella). Performers learn proper tone
production, music theory, and musicianship, perform multi-part musical selections, as well as
explorethelargerworldofmodernmusicingeneral.Someselectionsmightrequiremovement
anddance.Performersmustperforminallconcerts,festivals,competitions,andothervenues
deemedmandatorybythedirector(thefinalconcerteachsemesterservesas80%ofthefinal
examforthatgivensemester).Performersarerequiredtopurchasepre-selectedconcertattire.
Depending on the school's calendar for the given year, this choir is a touring group and may
Page | 39
have out of town trips to perform at schools and colleges, in other cities, and/or compete at
competitionsoutofstate.
Prerequisite:AUDITIONISREQUIREDforallperformerswhohavenotpreviouslybeeninVocal
Fusion. Although they do not audition, students previously involved in Vocal Fusion are not
guaranteedaspotinthegroupthenextyear.Allperformers(newandreturning)interestedin
placementintoVocalFusionmust1)beenrolledinConcertChoirduringtheschoolday,2)be
able to commit to after school rehearsals each week (no exceptions), and 3) go through an
audition process with the Director of Choirs. The meeting times after school are determined
afterthegroupisselected.Studentsschedulesaregathered,andtwo[2]rehearsalsperweek
arescheduledforaregulartime,witheachrehearsallasting2.5hours(equivalenttoalittleover
five weekly, in-school class sessions). Depending on student schedules, rehearsals may be
immediatelyafterschool,atnight,orboth
Grades9,10,11,121credit
BeginningBand
CourseDescription:AnIntroductioncourseopentoanystudentwhodesirestoplaya
woodwind,brass,andpercussionbandinstrumentbuthasnoexperience.Auditionisnot
required.Studentswillhavetheopportunitytoauditionforvarioushonorbandsandensembles
inthearea.AllBandmembersarerequiredtoparticipateatallSBAConcertandPepBand
events.Performancedateswillbegivenatthebeginningofthesemester.Woodwindandbrass
playersareencouragedtoobtaintheirowninstruments,butSBAcanprovidesomeinstruments
atnocharge.Allpercussioninstrumentswillbeprovided.
Prerequisite:None
Grades9,10,11,121credit
Band
Course Description: Open to any student who plays a woodwind, brass, and percussion band
instrument.Auditionisnotrequired.TheBandclassconsistsofConcertBandandPepBand,and
focusedwithprovidingmemberswithavarietyofrepertoire,includingpopularsettings,unique
repertoire,andnon-traditionalcollaborations.Studentswillhavetheopportunitytoauditionfor
varioushonorbandsandensemblesinthearea.AllBandmembersarerequiredtoparticipateat
allSBAConcertandPepBandevents.Performancedateswillbegivenatthebeginningofthe
semester. Woodwind and brass players are encouraged to obtain their own instruments, but
SBAcanprovidesomeinstrumentsatnocharge.Allpercussioninstrumentswillbeprovided.
Prerequisite:Mustplayaninstrument
Grades9,10,11,121credit
Orchestra
CourseDescription:Opentoanystudentwhoplaysordesirestoplayastringinstrument,with
orwithoutexperience.Auditionisnotrequired.Thisclasswillbesplitupbetweenstudentswith
experience and students who are beginners, and is focused with providing members with a
variety of repertoire, including popular settings, unique repertoire, and non-traditional
collaborations.Studentswillhavetheopportunitytoauditionforvarioushonororchestrasand
ensemblesinthearea.AllOrchestramembersarerequiredtoparticipateatallSBAOrchestra
events.Performancedateswillbegivenatthebeginningofthesemester.Studentsarerequired
toobtaintheirowninstruments.
Prerequisite:None
Grades9,10,11,121credit
RockandSoulBand
CourseDescription:Thiscourseisopentoanystudentwithinstrumentalorvocalexperience
andfocusesonimprovisation,theory,formandstructure,rock/bluesstylesandhistoricalrock,
Page | 40
blues,andsoulmusicrepertoire.Studentswillhavetheopportunitytoauditionforvarious
honorbandsandensemblesinthearea.AllR&SBandmembersarerequiredtoparticipateatall
SBAConcertevents.Performancedateswillbegivenatthebeginningofthesemester.
Woodwind,brass,andguitar/bassplayersareencouragedtoobtaintheirowninstruments,but
SBAcanprovidesomeinstrumentsatnocharge.Allkeyboardandpercussioninstrumentswill
beprovided.
Prerequisite:Auditionisrequired
Grades9,10,11,12
1credit
JazzBand
CourseDescription:Thiscourseisopentoanystudentwithinstrumentalorvocalexperience
andfocusesonimprovisation,jazztheory,formandstructure,jazzstylesandhistoricaljazz
repertoire.Studentswillhavetheopportunitytoauditionforvarioushonorbandsand
ensemblesinthearea.AllJazzBandmembersarerequiredtoparticipateatallSBAConcert
events.Performancedateswillbegivenatthebeginningofthesemester.Woodwind,brass,and
guitar/bassplayersareencouragedtoobtaintheirowninstruments,butSBAcanprovidesome
instrumentsatnocharge.Allkeyboardandpercussioninstrumentswillbeprovided.
Prerequisite:Auditionisrequired
Grades9,10,11,12
1credit
Theatre
TheatreHistory/TheatreDesign
Course Description: Theatre History occurs in the Fall Semester of this course, and focuses on
theprogressionanddevelopmentoftheatrefromprimitiveculturesthroughmodernday.The
course is an overview and is fast paced, covering a lot of material in a short amount of time.
TheatreDesignoccursintheSpringSemesterofthiscourse,andfocusesontheprogressionand
development of theatre design elements from Greek theatre to modern day, including set
design, costuming, hair and makeup, mask-making, and graphic design elements. Students in
this course will enroll in an online class through PowerSchool Learning, which is used as an
instructionaltoolforthisclass.Thiscourserequiresonlineandcreativeworkoutsideofregular
class time each day/week. It is patterned much like a Flipped Classroom, where students are
introduced to facts, basics, and information at home, which is then discussed and explored
duringclasstime.StudentsinthiscoursearerequiredtoattendallproductionsoftheTheatre
ProgramatSBA.
Prerequisite:NoneGrades9,10,11,12 1credit
TechnicalTheatre
Course Description: Technical theatre provides an educational background for lighting, sound,
andsetconstructionalongwithhands-onexperienceoperatinglights,sound,andconstructing
sets for the Theatre Program's productions each semester. Outside the construction time of
sets, students focus on lighting, sound, and other aspects of technical theatre and its history.
During production time for shows, all Technical Theatre students are involved with the
construction of sets. Students are required (during construction time only) to put in five [5]
hours each week after school for ongoing construction (this typically lasts five [5] weeks per
show, of which there are usually three [3] per year). Students are required to run lights and
soundduringtherunofeachproductionand/orserveasthebackstagecrew.
Page | 41
Prerequisites:None Grades9.10,11,12 1credit
ActingI/II
CourseDescription:ActingIoccursintheFallSemesterofthiscourse,andfocusesonthebasic
building blocks of acting. It incorporates heavy usage of games, exercises, and activities
designedtohelpstudentsfeelcomfortableonstageandworkwithoneanother.ActingIIoccurs
in the Spring Semester, and further explores the foundations of acting. It incorporates
everything from Acting I, while adding oral interpretation, monologues, skits, storytelling, and
moreseriousapproachestotheactingcraft.Studentsinthis coursearerequiredtoattendall
productionsoftheTheatreProgramatSBA,aswellasonenon-SBAproductioneachsemester
(thiscanbeatalocaltheatreoranotherhighschool).
Prerequisite:None
Grades9,10,11
1credit
ActingIII/IV
Course Description: Acting III occurs in the Fall Semester of this course, and continues from
Acting I/II with an emphasis on scene work, monologues, preparation for college/professional
work,andotherprojects.ActingIVoccursintheSpringSemester,wherecontentlearnedfrom
ActingI-IIIbecomesthecatalystforstudentstoexploretherollofdirectorandplaywright.Each
student produces a short original work performed by class members, and is responsible for
casting their work, designing simple elements for their work, and rehearsing the work for
performance. Students in this course are required to attend all productions of the Theatre
ProgramatSBA,aswellasonenon-SBAproductioneachsemester(thiscanbeatalocaltheatre
oranotherhighschool).
Prerequisites:ActingI/IITeacherrecommendation Grades10,11,12 1credit
StudioArt
ArtI
CourseDescription:Thiscourseisdesignedtoteachthebasicprinciplesofdesign,colortheory,
drawing,painting,andprintmaking.Studentswillstudytheuseofline,shape,textureandform
andhowitrelatestoallartforms.Perspectiveandgeometricformswillbeusedtoteachtheart
of drawing. All major projects are graded on the quality of the work, technique, skill in
execution,effortandinvolvement.Lateworkwillbepenalizedbyonelettergradeaday,forthe
first three days. After three days, students will receive a D or lower, depending on the time
frameandthecriteriaabove.
Prerequisite:NoneGrades9,10,11,12
1credit
DrawingandPainting
Course Description: Learn basic drawing skills. Fundamentals are discussed including
composition, perspective and the effective use of line, edges and value. Students will be
introducedtoalldrawingmediums.Astudyofthebasicprinciplesofpainting,theuseandcare
of materials and equipment. Still life studies will be used to develop an understanding of
drawing, composition and value as related to painting, as well as the application of color and
renderingoftexturesinoil.Studentswilldevelopagreaterunderstandingofcompositionand
colorandexplorevariouspaintingtechniques.
Prerequisites:ArtI,TeacherRecommendation
Grades10,11,121credit
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AdvancedArt
Course Description: Students will be introduced to more advanced techniques in drawing,
paintingandavarietyofmixedmedia.Studentswillbeginworkingonbuildingaportfolio.This
courseisdesignedforstudentswithaninterestinpursuinganartcareer.
Prerequisites:Drawing&Painting,TeacherrecommendationGrades11,12 1credit
StudioArtAP
Course Description: AP Studio Art is an elective for advanced art students. Emphasis will
continuetobeplacedonunderstandingandapplyingtheelementsandprinciplesofdesign.This
course will focus on developing a personal style through the application of all concepts and
processes learned in previous years. Class work will include independent projects in various
media,aswellasdevelopinganareaofconcentrationchosenbythestudent.APstudentsare
requiredtodevelopalargebodyofartwork,whichwillbepresentedforconsiderationtotheAP
College Board to earn college credit and to pass the course. This is an intense course that
requiresaseriouscommitmentoftimeandeffort.Thecurriculumissetbytherequirementsof
theCollegeBoard.TheAPportfolioincludesthreeseparatesections—quality,concentration,
andbreadth.Studentswillbeginworkingwiththeartteacherinthespringsemesterbeforeand
have assignments to complete during the summer. All grades and expectations are based on
theAPrubric.APtestingattheendoftheyearisrequired.
Prerequisites:Art1,Drawing&Painting,and\orAdvancedArt,
Grades11,121credit
Teacherrecommendation
VisualArtI
CourseDescription:Thebasicsofdevelopingblackandwhitephotographyandcreatingdigital
photographyarepresented.Compositionwillbestudiedandcritiqued.Studentswilllearnthe
functionsandpartsofthecamera,correctexposures,blackandwhitefilmprocessing,anddark
room procedures. Photographs will be taken and printed, contact sheets made and
enlargementsexplored.Digitalprojectswillalsobeincludedattimes.
Prerequisite:NoneGrades9,10,11,12 1credit
VisualArtII
Course Description: This course takes a more in-depth look at Photography in both black and
WhiteandinDigitalFilm.Skillsaresharpenedalongwithagreater,in-depthunderstandingof
the “Photographic Eye”. Students explore creative alternatives to regular printing in the
darkroom, as they work on Photograms, Double Exposures, Sandwich Prints, Kaleidoscope
Prints, Name Banners, Hand-colored photographs, and other creative assignments. Portraits
photographywillbestudiedalongwithvariouslightingtechniques.Manycreativeassignments
aregiventostudentstostretchtheirthinkingaboutPhotographyandthe“ARTS”.
Prerequisite:VisualArtI
Grades10,11,12
1credit
Ceramics
Course Description: Provides an overview of the basic principles of ceramics. Students will
acquireskillsandcreatetheirownworkusingavarietyofdemonstratedtechniques.Hand-built
projectsaredesignedtoassuresuccessandbuildconfidenceinstudentswhilechallengingthem
creatively.Introductiontowheelthrowing,glazingandfiringtechniqueswillalsobecovered.
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Prerequisite:ArtIorVisualArtsIGrades10,11,12
½credit
GraphicArts
CourseDescription:Studentswilllearnhowacommercialartistapproachesdesignconceptsfor
clients. This course will concentrate on graphic design skills, often using design software and
Mac computers to create projects. Students will learn drawing along with layout typography
techniques.Creativeplanningandconcentrationoncommunicatingvisuallywillbeamainfocus.
Students will create covers, posters, logos, package design and advertising layouts during a
semestercourse.
Prerequisite:Art1Grades10,11,12
½credit
Dance
IntermediateDanceTechnique
CourseDescription:Studentswillfocusontheprinciplesandtechniquebehindavarietyof
dancestyles,suchas:ballet,jazz,modern,contemporary,pomandhip-hop.Thiscoursewill
includebasicdanceconditioningandanintroductiontoturns,leapsandjumps,basicacrobatics,
andflexibilityskills,aswellaschallengingthestudentstoperformandcreatebasic
choreographywithinagroup.
Prerequisite:None
Grades9,10,11,12 ½credit
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