Download Program of Study 2016-2017

Butler High School
2016 – 2017
Program of Studies
Pride
Tradition
Excellence
38 Bartholdi Avenue, Butler, New Jersey 07405
(973) 492-2000
IT TAKES MORE TO BE A BULLDOG!
Butler High School
2016-2017 Program of Studies
Board of Education
President - Mr. Matt Lee
Vice President - Mrs. Tracy Luciani
Mr. Mark Thomas
Ms. Heather Grecco
Ms. Alison Allison
Mrs. Julie Ruighaver
Mrs. Karen Smith
Mrs. Cynthia Sokoloff
Mr. Albert Syracuse
Mr. Sheldon Bross – Bloomingdale Representative
Superintendent of Schools
Dr. Alex Anemone
School Business Administrator
Ms. Barbara Murphy
School Administration
Mr. Martin J. Wall - Principal
Mr. Kevin Kelly – Assistant Principal
Mr. David Doty – Athletic Supervisor
District Technology Supervisor
Ms. Evelyn Horner
Director of Curriculum, Instruction and
Assessment
Ms. Andrea Vladichak
Departments
Business – Ms. Peg Lynch
English – Mr. Kevin Reagan
Fine, Practical, Performing – Mr. David Doty
Mathematics – Ms. Peg Lynch
Physical/Health Education – Mr. David Doty
Science – Ms. Peg Lynch
Social Studies – Mr. Kevin Reagan
World Languages – Mr. Kevin Reagan
School Counselors
Ms. Andrea Fugazot
Ms. Sue Maurer
Ms. Julia Placko
Sarah Friedland
Substance Awareness Counselor
Ms. Robin Lavorato
1
SCHOOL PHILOSOPHY
We, the administrators, faculty, and staff of Butler High School, commit ourselves to
educating our students so that they may best fulfill their potential in a society based on
democratic ideals. We believe that this is a task shared by the school, home and
community agencies in order to develop the intellectual, emotional, physical, social and
ethical qualities needed by our youth in this constantly changing world.
We believe in the freedom of each individual student to plan his/her own life and to
carry out plans with due consideration of the consequences. Through careful planning
we strive to challenge each student’s academic, vocational and avocational interests,
and to help him/her realize his/her potential for originality, leadership, and service to
school and community.
We strive to make students aware of their responsibilities to society and the
opportunities therein. We must bring them to the realization of the need to utilize their
intelligence and talents in achieving a better understanding of themselves and their
environment. We introduce them to the cultural contributions of humanity for the
general enrichment of their lives. We offer pleasant, well-equipped facilities for learning
in both practical and cultural phases of training and endeavor to teach proper respect
for these facilities.
We recognize the importance of the individual and the group to which he/she belongs.
In order that the individual may be equipped to meet responsibilities, we must
encourage the choice of curriculum and activities suitable to his/her abilities, interests,
and needs. We provide a comprehensive, yet flexible curriculum to meet these various
needs within the economic ability of the community.
This booklet has been prepared as a reference to assist students with the design of
their academic program. It also contains an overview of academic procedures, such as
requirements for graduation, description of courses, and guidance services.
School counselors will assist students in selecting courses based on their individual
plans and BHS graduation requirements. This booklet should be reviewed before any
scheduling conference. Parents are welcome to meet with their child and counselor
during the scheduling conference.
2
Table of Contents
SCHOOL PHILOSOPHY .......................................... 2
HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS (140 Credits* **) ............. 3
SCHOOL COUNSELING DEPARTMENT ................................ 5
SCHEDULING GUIDELINES ......................................... 5
COURSE SELECTION PROCEDURES ................................. 6
ELIGIBILITY FOR COLLEGE ATHLETICS ............................. 7
NCAA ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES ..... 7
WEIGHTED COURSES ........................................... 9
BASIC CURRICULUM ............................................. 10
ADVANCED PLACEMENT© and COLLEGE LEVEL COURSES ............... 12
ENGLISH ...................................................... 16
SOCIAL STUDIES ................................................ 21
SCIENCE ...................................................... 25
MATHEMATICS ................................................. 28
WORLD LANGUAGES ............................................ 32
BUSINESS EDUCATION ........................................... 36
INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY ....................................... 39
HOME TECHNOLOGY ............................................ 41
FINE AND PERFORMING ARTS ..................................... 42
PHYSICAL EDUCATION/HEALTH .................................... 45
HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS (140 Credits* **)
Subject
Physical Education/Health
English (includes English I, II, III, IV)
Mathematics (includes Algebra I, Geometry)
Science (includes Biology, Life Science, and Physical Science)
Social Studies (includes World History, US I & II)
World Languages
Visual/Performing Arts
21st Century Life & Career/Career – Technical Education
Personal Finance
Freshmen Experience
Additional Credits in Electives/Majors
MINIMUM CREDITS REQUIRED FOR GRADUATION
Years
4 years
4 years
3 years
3 years
3 years
1 year
1 year
1 year
½ year
½ year
Credits
20
Credits
20
Credits
15
Credits
15
Credits
15
Credits
5
Credits
5
Credits
5
Credits
2.5 Credits
2.5 Credits
35
Credits
140
Credits
3
Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers (PARCC)
PARCC assessments in English Language Arts and Mathematics will be administered in grades
9 through 11.Tests are aligned to the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for each grade
level. PARCC exams will be administered in the spring of the school year in English Language
Arts and Mathematics.
Beginning with the 2016-2017 incoming freshmen class, all students are required to earn a
PARCC score that meets or exceeds grade level expectations in English Language Arts and
Mathematics. All students in the graduating classes of 2017, 2018, and 2019 are required to
earn a PARCC score that meets or exceeds grade level expectations in English Language Arts
and Mathematics, or earn a cut score on a substitute assessment, or meet the criteria for the
NJDOE portfolio appeal process.
English Language Arts
PARCC ELA Grade 9 >= 750 (Level 4) or
PARCC ELA Grade 10 >=750 (Level 4) or
PARCC ELA Grade 11 >= 725 (Level 3) or
SAT Reading* >= 400 or
ACT Reading or ACT PLAN Reading >= 16 or
Accuplacer Write Placer >= 6 or
PSAT10 Reading or PSAT/NMSQT Reading**
>=40 or
PSAT10 Reading or PSAT/NMSQT
Reading*** >=22 or
ACT Aspire Reading >= 422 or
ASVAB-AFQT Composite >=31 or
Meet the Criteria of the NJDOE Portfolio
Appeal
Mathematics
PARCC Algebra I >= 750 (Level 4) or
PARCC Geometry >= 725 (Level 3) or
PARCC Algebra II >= 725 (Level 3) or
SAT Math* >= 400 or
ACT or ACT PLAN Math>= 16 or
Accuplacer Elementary Algebra >= 76
or
PSAT10 Math or PSAT/NMSQT
Math**>= 40 or
PSAT10 Math or PSAT/NMSQT
Math*** >=22 or
ACT Aspire Math >= 422 or
ASVAB-AFQT Composite >=31 or
Meet the Criteria of the NJDOE
Portfolio Appeal
ATTENDANCE
Regular and punctual attendance, as specified by Butler Board of Education Policy #5200, and
described in the Butler High School Code of Conduct/Student Handbook, is a requirement for
graduation. All students would be familiar and compliant with these policies and procedures.
CLASS ELIGIBILITY
Any student who fails to earn passing grades in their core/required subjects will be retained at
their current grade level. Students who fail any of their major subjects are required to
independently register and attend summer school classes, in an approved summer school
program, during the summer immediately following the regular school year of the failure.
Students are expected to successfully complete their summer school classes and regain grade
level status prior to the beginning of the new school year. Summer school grades will count
toward BHS graduation requirements, but will not be calculated in a student’s grade point
average (GPA).
All students in grades 9 and 10 must be enrolled in a minimum of 8 class periods daily (40
credits minimum). Students in grades 11 and 12 must be enrolled in a minimum of 7 class
periods daily (35 credits minimum). Students in grade 11 must have earned a minimum of 80
4
credits prior to September 1st of their junior year. Students who have not earned 80 credits by
this date may not request a study hall.
In order for any student to attain graduation status, request Senior Programs or enjoy senior
privileges, they must earn a minimum of 100 credits, as described in this Program of Study, prior
September 1st of their senior year.
It is the responsibility of the student to enroll, and earn credit, in sufficient courses required for
graduation, college acceptance/requirements, and NCAA eligibility for college athletics. If any
deficiency is noted, students should make an appointment to see their school counselor
immediately.
SCHOOL COUNSELING DEPARTMENT
The School Counseling Department at Butler High School is designed to help students
with academic, vocational and personal plans. School counselors discuss matters of importance
with students that will help insure a successful four years at Butler High School in addition to
helping the student plan for post-high school years. Students and parents are encouraged to
request appointments as needed.
The School Counseling Department provides many resources that assist students in
career exploration and development. Information is available about employment opportunities,
scholarships, financial aid, and making college selections. The Guidance website is updated on
a regular basis. Parents who are enrolled in the Naviance program will receive timely information
on PSAT, SAT, college selection and the college process via e-mail. Parents are urged to enroll
in Naviance by contacting their child’s counselor. The website announces college visitations,
testing dates, new program information, scholarship and career opportunities. Information is
also provided on the guidance bulletin board located in the hallway outside of the Guidance
Office. The School Counseling Department goal is to help the student succeed in school, to
assist the student in making personal adjustment, and to aid with future plans.
SCHEDULING GUIDELINES
Master Schedule Process and Schedule Changes
The Butler High School master schedule is custom designed by the accumulated course
requests of every student during the spring scheduling process. While course requests may not
be met, every attempt will be made to accommodate student requests. Considering the
personalized nature of the scheduling process, parents and students must consider all
graduation requirements and post-secondary plans when selecting courses for the subsequent
school year. Schedule change policies and procedures will be strictly complied with after the
course selection process is complete. Once the fall semester has begun, students will be
expected to follow the schedule provided.
Course Requests
All students are scheduled for the subsequent year’s program during the spring semester.
During scheduling conferences, counselors will review placement recommendations with the
student and parents. Student placement into course levels is governed by:
 current grade level
 successful completion of prerequisite courses
 enrollment in co-requisite courses (where applicable)
 requisite course placement criteria
5
 teacher recommendation
 satisfactory/timely completion of summer assignments and/or requirements
Students are not permitted to schedule two subjects, one prerequisite to the other, during the
same school year (i.e. Spanish I and Spanish II, or Algebra I and Algebra II). Under certain
circumstances, permission may be granted by the principal for a student to double up in a
particular area, according to the individual's needs.
COURSE SELECTION PROCEDURES
Group Meetings
Throughout the school year, school counselors will meet with large groups of students to
distribute and explain scheduling materials. Following these meetings, students should discuss
graduation requirements and post-secondary plans with their parents in preparation for an
individual scheduling conference.
Individual Scheduling Conferences
During the spring semester each student will meet with their counselor to plan a schedule for the
following school year. Parents/guardians are welcome to attend this conference.
During this conference:
 credits and graduation requirements shall be reviewed
 post-secondary plans are discussed
 course placement recommendations are discussed
 subsequent school year course requests are finalized.
Course Withdrawals
Any student who changes his/her schedule after Marking Period 1 will receive a grade of WP
(Withdrawn Passing) or WF (Withdrawn Failing) for the course(s) from which he/she is exiting.
This grade will reflect the student’s status in the exited course(s) at the time of the schedule
change. This grade will appear on report cards and transcripts and will be for informational
purposes, but will not be used in the computation of class rank. All course withdrawals must be
discussed with the parent, and approved by the teacher, department supervisor, school
counselor, and administration.
A student who withdraws from a course prior to its completion will not receive any partial credit
and will not be eligible to make credit up in summer school. No student will be able to withdraw
from a course from which they have been admitted into via the placement review (over-ride)
procedure.
Schedule Change of Policy and Procedures
Once schedules are completed and distributed to students, they are considered final and cannot
be changed. Under certain circumstances, some issues may need to be corrected. Counselors
will be available to make these corrections during the first two weeks that school is in session.
The circumstances include:
1. An error has been made in scheduling or not scheduling a student for a particular course.
2. A senior student failed a course and needs to be rescheduled for that course in order to
have the opportunity to graduate with his / her class. Any underclassman failure must be
made up in summer school or in the following school year.
An error has been made in the level of a scheduled course.
6
Request for Entry into Additional Courses/Minimum Course Load
Because of the difficulty of making up work which has been covered in a class, a student may
not enter a course after the10th school day that the course is in session. In very unusual
circumstances, where graduation requirements must be met or a definite hardship would be
experienced by the student, the student may request to enter a class by preparing a written
petition outlining all the arguments for a waiver of policy. The petition will be reviewed by a
committee consisting of the teacher, department supervisor, counselor, and principal; and if a
waiver is granted, it will be the student's responsibility to independently complete all back
assignments within two weeks of entry or a date stipulated in a contract developed between the
student and teacher. In the event of any late entry, the student enters with an incomplete for the
work covered and is responsible for make up as stated.
College Preparatory Programs
Students who plan to go to college should be ready to complete the academic subjects which
are required for college entrance. Entrance requirements vary from college to college. These
requirements are usually referred to in terms of College Units. One College Unit is granted for
each year of a college accepted subject which has been successfully completed in high school.
Four year colleges usually require a minimum of sixteen College Units for admission. These
units are required by most colleges in the following subject areas:
Course
English
World Language
Mathematics
Years
4
2-4
3-4
Science
3-4
Social Studies
Fine, Practical, and Performing Arts
3-4
2
Examples
Courses taken at CP level or higher
Concentration in one language
Algebra I, Algebra II, Pre-calculus, Calculus, Plane
Geometry,
Biology, Biology II, Chemistry, Physics,
Physiology, AP Sciences
World History, US History I and II, Electives,
Art 1, Band
Courses noted on the table above note broadly based requirements. Specific colleges and
majors may call for heavier admission requirements. It is essential that students refer to college
catalogs to determine exact admission requirements. School counselors are available to guide
students through this procedure. Students are encouraged to take a well-rounded academic
program that includes electives in the Business, Fine, Practical and Performing Arts
Departments.
ELIGIBILITY FOR COLLEGE ATHLETICS
NCAA ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES
There are stringent eligibility requirements for any student who plans to compete on a college
level in any Division I or Division II athletic program. The specifics of these guidelines may be
found on the internet at (www.eligibilitycenter.org). All potential college athletes are urged to
complete an NCAA Clearing House application at the beginning of their junior year.
Division III and NAIA schools do not require NCAA Clearing House eligibility.
7
Grade 9
Grade 10
_____1.
Study/Lunch
_____1.
Study/Lunch
_____2.
English I
_____2.
English II
_____3.
Phys Ed/Health
_____3.
Phys Ed/Health
_____4.
World History
_____4.
U. S. History I
_____5.
Science
_____5.
Science
_____6.
Mathematics
_____6.
Mathematics
_____7.
Practical Arts/
Fine Arts
_____7.
Practical Arts/Fine
Arts/World Language
_____8.
World Language/
Practical/Fine Arts
_____8.
Elective
_____9.
Elective
_____9.
Freshmen
Experience/Personal
Finance
Grade 12
Grade 11
_____1.
Study/Lunch
_____1.
Study/Lunch
_____2.
English IV
_____2.
English III
_____3.
Physical Ed./Health
_____3.
Phys Ed/Health
_____4.
Elective
_____4.
U. S. History II
_____5.
Elective
_____5.
Science
_____6.
Elective
_____6.
Mathematics
_____7.
Elective
_____7.
Elective
_____8.
Elective
_____8.
Elective
_____9.
Elective
_____9.
Elective
8
WEIGHTED COURSES
All courses offered at Butler High School are classified according to one of three
categories and a weighted value is assigned to that category for the purpose of determining
grade point average (GPA) and class rank. The categories, their definitions and their respective
weighted values are as follows:
College-Level Courses
These consist of all courses in which students do college level work and may receive
college credit for the course or subsequent advanced placement testing. The weighted value for
these courses is 1.4.
These courses are:
AP American History I & II
AP Chemistry
AP Biology
AP Calculus
AP Literature and Composition
AP Language and Composition
AP Physics
AP Psychology
Physiology(Dual Enrollment weight 1.2)
AP Statistics
Honors Courses
These consist of all Honors program courses, and advanced elective courses. The
weighted value of these courses is 1.2.
These courses are:
English I Honors
English II Honors
English III Honors
World History Honors
Biology Honors
Chemistry Honors
Forensic Science
Physics Honors
Geometry Honors
Algebra II/Trigonometry Honors
Pre-calculus Honors
Calculus Honors
French IV Honors
German IV Honors
Spanish IV Honors
High School Level and College Preparatory (CP) Courses
These consist of the remaining courses contained in the Butler High School Program of Studies.
The weighted value of these courses is 1.0.
9
BASIC CURRICULUM
9
004
005
006
012
015
016
017
025
026
027
028
035
036
037
040
045
046
047
049
050
080
English Lab
English I
English I Honors (1.2 weight)
ESL
English II
English II Honors (1.2 weight)
English II CP
English III
English Lit & Composition AP (1.4 weight)
English III CP
English III Honors (1.2 weight)
English IV
English Language & Composition AP (1.4 weight)
English IV CP
Creative Writing
Drama (1 Sem.)
Public Speaking (1 Sem.)
Evolution of Cinema (1 Sem.)
Evolution of Cinema II (1 Sem.)
Journalism
Yearbook
101
102
105
131
132
135
141
142
145
151
154
155
156
157
159
World History CP
World History
World History Honors (1.2 weight)
US History I CP
US History I
US History I AP (1.4 weight)
US History II CP
US History II
US History II AP (1.4 weight)
Sociology
Psychology AP (1.4 weight)
Psychology CP
Civil/Criminal Law
Psychology
Micro/Macro Economics
x
x
x
210
212
216
217
218
219
220
Biology Honors (6 credits) (1.2 weight)
Biology CP (6 credits)
Earth Science
Life Science
Physical Science
Chemistry CP
Chemistry Honors (6 credits) (1.2 weight)
x
x
x
x
x
10
11
12
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
10
222
240
243
244
245
251
254
255
256
257
Chemistry AP (6 credits) (1.4 weight)
Physics AP (6 credits) (1.4 weight)
Physics CP (6 credits)
Forensic Science
Physics Honors (6 credits) (1.2 weight)
Biology II CP (6 credits)
Physiology (6) (1.2 weight)
Biology AP (6) (1.4 weight)
Marine Biology CP
Human Genetics/Ethics CP
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
9
10
11
12
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
302
303
304
305
311
312
321
322
323
323A
331
332
333
342
343
370
371
Algebra I CP
Algebra I
Geometry
Algebra II
Geometry Honors (1.2 weight)
Geometry CP
Algebra II Honors (1.2 weight)
Algebra II CP
Selected Topics in Math
Selected Topics in Math CP
Pre-Calculus Honors (1.2 weight)
Pre-Calculus CP
Calculus Honors (1.2 weight)
Calculus AP (1.4 weight)
Statistics AP (1.4 weight)
Mathematics Lab II
Mathematics Lab I
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
401
403
405
407
421
423
425
430
428
433
435
437
French I
French II
French III
French IV Honors (1.2weight)
Spanish I
Spanish II
Spanish III
Spanish IV Honors (1.2 weight)
Conversational Spanish
Italian II
Italian III
Italian IV Honors (1.2 weight)
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
071
355
510
515
530
Freshmen Experience/Personal Finance
Web Design
Intro to Business
Intro to Marketing/Management Ed.
Entrepreneurship/Business
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
11
535
570
571
Sports & Entertainment Marketing
Word Processing (1 Sem.)
Personal Finance & Careers (1 Sem.)
636
638
650
655
670
Computer Aided Drawing
Computer Aided Drawing II
Photography I
Photography II
VoTech
701
702
703
704
705
707
Art I
Contemporary Crafts
Drawing & Painting I
Drawing & Painting II
Pottery
Studio Art
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
726
Foods I
x
x
x
x
728
Foods II
x
x
x
730
Heritage Foods
x
x
x
____________________________________________________________________________
741
745
746
751
752
753
Concert Choir
Chamber Choir
Good As Gold
Band
Music Theory
Instrumental Instruction
x
x
x
x
x
x
810
811
805
812
813
817
821
825
Phys Ed (3.75 or 3.0)
Phys Ed (3.75 or 3.0)
Phys Ed (3.75 or 3.0)
Phys Ed (3.75 or 3.0)
Phys Ed (3.75 or 3.0)
Adaptive Phys Ed. (3.75)
Health9 & 10 D.E. (1.25 or 1.0)
Health 11 & 12 (1.25 or 1.0)
x
x
901
Study/Lunch
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
ADVANCED PLACEMENT© and COLLEGE LEVEL COURSES
The Advanced Placement (AP) Program and College Level Courses give students an
opportunity to pursue college level studies while still in secondary school and to receive
advanced placement credit. The program in Butler High School presently provides courses and
examinations in nine introductory college areas of study. The program is open to students who
might welcome the challenge and the numerous benefits of undertaking Advanced Placement
study.
12
Any student who wishes to take an Advance Placement Course must complete the summer
assignment for that course. Specific requirements for summer assignments shall be issued by
each AP teacher. This assignment will be submitted to the teacher by the third week of August.
Failure to complete and submit the assignment will result in the student being removed from the
Advanced Placement Course.
AP LANGUAGE & COMPOSITION
Grade: 11
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #036
Weighted Value: 1.4
Text: None
Prerequisite: Minimum final average of 87 in English II Honors and Academy English II; or
minimum final average of 90 in English II CP; teacher recommendation; successful completion
of an in-class multiple choice and essay test administered in the spring of the sophomore year;
and successful completion and submission of summer assignment.
Course Description: The Advanced Placement Language and Composition course engages
students in becoming both skilled readers of prose written in a variety of periods, disciplines, and
rhetorical contexts and skilled writers who compose for a variety of purposes. This is a collegelevel course with a curriculum approved by The College Board. The course allows students to
write in a variety of forms concerning a variety of topics. The AP Language and Composition
course emphasizes the intense application of the writing process, a wide-ranging vocabulary,
and effective interpretation of literary material.
AP ENGLISH LITERATURE & COMPOSITION
Grade: 12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #026
Weighted Value: 1.4
Text: None
Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation; minimum final average of 85 in AP English Language,
or 90 in English III CP; successful completion and submission of summer assignment.
Course Description: Advanced Placement English Literature and Composition is a collegelevel course with a curriculum approved by The College Board. The course covers the study and
practice of writing and the study of literature. Writing assignments focus on the critical analysis
of literature and include essays in exposition and argument, personal narrative, and the writing
of stories, poems or plays. Reading literary works containing universal themes and studying the
individual work, its language, characters, action, and themes are also included in the course.
AP AMERICAN HISTORY I & II
Grades 10 and 11
Credits: 5
Course # 135-145
Full-Year Course
Weighted Value: 1.4
Text: The American Pageant
Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation and completion and submission of summer
assignment.
Course Description: The Advanced Placement Program in American History is designed to
provide students with the analytic skills and factual knowledge necessary to deal critically with
the problems and materials in American History. The program prepares students for
intermediate and advanced college courses by making demands upon them equivalent to those
of full-year introductory college courses. Students should learn to assess historical materials –
their relevance to a given interpretive problem, their reliability, and their importance – and to
weigh the evidence and interpretations presented in historical scholarship. The advanced
placement American History course of study is a two year program designed for motivated
students seeking an advanced program of studies and the possibility of college credit. Both AP
American History courses require summer reading and writing assignments. Testing of these
readings occurs during the first class meetings. The course of study is sequential and it is
strongly suggested that students select both years in order to properly prepare for the national
exam. The A.P. History exam is given in May of Junior Year.
AP CHEMISTRY
Course #222
Grades: 11 and 12
Full-Year Course
Credits: 6
Weighted Value: 1.4
13
Text: Chemistry Principles and Practice; Roger Goode, Mercer 2nd Edition
Prerequisite: Minimum final average of 85 in Chemistry Honors; 85% in Algebra II Honors;
teacher recommendation, successful completion and submission of summer assignment.
Course Description: AP Chemistry is a college level program that follows the Advanced Placement syllabus published by the College Entrance Examination Board. The course is designed to
be the equivalent of the general chemistry course usually taken during the first college year.
Topics include states and structure of matter, reactions, and descriptive chemistry. A series of
laboratory and research projects will supplement instruction.
AP CALCULUS
Grades:12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #342
Weighted Value: 1.4
Text: Calculus: Graphical, Numerical, Algebraic: AP edition, Pearson
Prerequisite: Minimum final average of 80 in Precalculus Honors or 95 in Precalculus CP,
teacher recommendation, successful completion and submission of summer assignment.
Course Description: The Advanced Placement Calculus course is a college level program that
is directed toward the Advanced Placement Examination. Topics include:
 The elementary functions (algebraic, trigonometric, exponential, and logarithmic), limits
and continuity
 The derivative – applications of the derivative including maximum/minimum problems,
velocity/acceleration and related rates
 The antiderivatives – applications of the antiderivative, techniques of integration, the
definite integral as in area, Slope fields, the fundamental theorem of calculus
Applications of the integral including exponential and logarithmic functions and their derivatives,
trigonometric and inverse trigonometric functions and their derivatives, area between
curves and volume of a solid of revolution.
AP BIOLOGY
Grades: 11 and 12
Credits: 6
Full-Year Course
Course #255
Weighted Value: 1.4
Text: Campbell Biology, 10th Edition, 2014 Pearson
Prerequisite: Minimum of 80 final average in Chemistry Honors; teacher recommendation; and
successful completion and submission of summer assignment.
Course Description: The Advanced Placement Program in Biology follows the syllabus
published by the College Entrance Examination Board. The course covers four broad areas
which include:
1.
The process of evolution drives the diversity and unity of life.
2.
Biological systems utilize free energy and molecular building blocks to grow, to
reproduce, and to maintain dynamic homeostasis.
3.
Living systems store, retrieve, transmit, and respond to information essential to
life processes.
4.
Biological systems interact, and these systems and their interactions possess
complex properties.
Each of these sections will also include required laboratory experiences. This course
exceeds the requirements of the syllabus of any college for freshman biology.
AP PHYSICS (NOT OFFERED DURING
1617SY)
Full-Year Course
Course #240
Weighted Value: 1.4
th
Text: Fundamentals of Physics, Halliday 6 ed.
Prerequisite: Minimum final average of 80 in Physics or Algebra II or Precalculus; teacher
recommendation; and successful completion and submission of summer assignment. Corequisite-Calculus.
14
Course Description: This course provides a systematic introduction to the main principles of
mechanics and emphasizes the development of conceptual understanding and problem-solving
ability using algebra, trigonometry and basic calculus. The concepts of basic derivatives and
integrals are covered during the first few weeks of the school year. In most colleges this is a one
semester course including a laboratory component. This course provides the foundation in
physics for students in the science fields.
Students are eligible to earn three college credits from the New Jersey Institute of
Technology upon successful completion of the course. NJIT charges a discounted tuition for
these credits.
AP PSYCHOLOGY
Grade: 12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #154
Weighted Value: 1.4
th
Text: Myers’ Psychology, David Myers 9 Ed.
Prerequisite: Minimum final average of 85 in Psychology CP; teacher recommendation; and
successful completion and submission of summer assignment.
Course Description: AP Psychology is designed to introduce students to the systematic and
scientific study of the behavior and mental processes of human beings and other animals.
Students are exposed to the psychological facts, principles, and phenomena associated with
each of the major subfields within psychology. Students will also learn about the methods
psychologists use in their science and practice.
PHYSIOLOGY
Grades: 11 and 12
Credits: 6
Full-Year Course
Course #254
Weighted Value: 1.2
Text: Vander’s Human Physiology, McGraw Hill
Prerequisite: Minimum final average 75 in Chemistry Honors or 85 in Chemistry CP; teacher
recommendation; and successful completion and submission of summer assignment.
Course Description: This course covers the structure and biochemistry of the human body.
Each system of the body is studied in detail, and its relation to the whole organism is stressed.
Appropriate laboratory experiments in biochemistry and dissection are used to supplement the
class work, with a detailed dissection of the fetal pig illustrating all of the body systems included
in the course. Physiology is recommended for the serious biology student. Students are eligible
to receive 3 credits from Fairleigh Dickinson University.
Grades: 10, 11 and 12
Credits: 5
AP STATISTICS
Full-Year Course
Course #343
Weighted Value: 1.4
Text: The practice of Statistics, 5th Edition, 2014 BFW
Prerequisite: Successful completion of a second course in Algebra
(Algebra 2 – minimum grade 90, Algebra 2 Honors-minimum grade 80) or taken
Concurrently with A2 Honors (minimum Geometry grade 85)
Course Description: This course covers the following general topics of study: “exploring data”,
“planning and design of a study”, “anticipating patterns” and “statistical inference”. The class
has required projects that require students to design surveys and experiments, gather data,
analyze the data numerically and graphically and apply inferential statistics to draw conclusions
for a population. Students will write formal reports on their project using statistical language.
15
ENGLISH
INTRODUCTION
The goal of the English Department is to help our students mature as fully as possible in
their language skills. We have developed a curriculum that provides wide opportunities to select
courses that are stimulating and academically rigorous to the needs and aspirations of the students. Summer reading is required.
The curriculum in the English program offers a heavy concentration for reading and
writing. The literature forming the content of each course has been selected for its accepted
excellence and for its appeal. The abundant writing in each course will flow largely from the
books read and addresses the skills required to be a successful writer of analysis, exposition,
and persuasion. Intensive vocabulary work is part of each English course.
Our most proficient and aggressive students should pursue a program of advanced and
honors courses, culminating in Advanced Placement English Language and Literature courses
and the Advanced Placement tests taken in May. Advanced Placement English courses
prepare students in the critical reading, analytical, and writing skills measured on the national AP
tests.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE LAB
Grade: 10
Course # 004
Full Year Course
Text: None
Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation based on testing.
Credits: 5
Weighted Value: 1
Course Description: This course is required for sophomores who need to reinforce requisite
language skills required to pass the PARCC assessment. The course will supplement the
student’s regular language arts course. The topics of study will vary to meet the needs of the
individual student and class.
ENGLISH I
Grade: 9
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #005
Weighted Value: 1
Text: Elements of Literature, Third Course, Holt Rhinehart
Prerequisite: None
Course Description: English I assists the ninth grader in meeting the requirements of a new
environment. Throughout the freshman year in English I, direction is received in setting the
pattern of work for the four years of high school. The teacher of English I encourages the
student to look upon the first year in high school as an opportunity to develop a considerable
measure of independence in school work. Throughout the year, great emphasis is placed upon
the development of reading skills through short stories, poetry, dramas, and nonfiction. Vocabulary, paragraph writing, and acceptable usage in both speech and writing are also emphasized.
ENGLISH I HONORS
Grades: 9
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #006
Weighted Value: 1.2
Text: Elements of Literature, Third Course, Holt Rhinehart
Prerequisite: A review of PARCC Assessment scores combined with current 8th grade marking
period grades and appropriate reading and writing levels and English teacher recommendation.
Course Description: Students in this course focus on meeting the requirements and challenges
of a high school curriculum at an accelerated pace. Throughout freshman year in English I
Honors, students receive the direction that will set the pattern for this caliber of class for four
years of high school. Students are expected to master the fundamentals of composition writing,
to polish grammar skills and to widen their vocabulary base. Literature is studied for the purpose
of developing judgment, broadening perception, improving comprehension, and fostering
16
language skills. Examples of the four literary genres (short stories, nonfiction, poetry, and plays)
are presented. Library skills are also reinforced in preparation for writing a research paper. In
addition to the core curriculum, additional novels and projects will supplement class discussions
and expository writing. This course emphasizes the improvement in all areas of communication
skills at a challenging pace.
ESL
Grades: 9-12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #012
Weighted Value: 1
Text: None
Prerequisite: None
Course Description: ESL instruction is provided for English language learners. Intensive drills
are practiced in all four language skills with special emphasis on reading and writing. Students
participate one period a day five days a week until they demonstrate proficiency to succeed in
the mainstream.
ENGLISH II
Grades: 10
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #015
Weighted Value: 1
Text: Elements of Literature, Fifth Course, Holt Rhinehart
Prerequisite: None
Course Description: English II students strive for improvement in reading comprehension,
effective writing, vocabulary, and grammar. The American literature studied is for the purpose of
developing judgment and widening perception. Reading selections are those that help the
student to understand American cultural heritage. Such authors as Emerson, Thoreau, Poe,
Hawthorne, Melville, Whitman, Steinbeck, Faulkner, Fitzgerald are read. A great emphasis is
placed on the continuing development of writing skills.
ENGLISH II HONORS
Grades: 9
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #016
Weighted Value: 1.2
Text: Elements of Literature, Fifth Course, Holt Rhinehart
Prerequisite: Minimum final average of 85 in grade 9; minimum final average of 85 English I;
teacher recommendation.
Course Description: This honors course encourages the student to improve composition skills,
with emphasis placed on answering essay questions such as those found on the SAT's.
Literature is studied for the purpose of developing judgment, widening perception, improving
comprehension, and fostering language skills. Fiction and nonfiction selections, from early
America to the present, are intended to help students understand their American heritage as well
as key periods in the development of American literature. Students also reinforce library skills
with the aim of having them write a research paper. Additional outside readings are required to
supplement class discussions and expository writing. Also, students research the various time
periods in the areas of art, politics, economics, etc. in order to understand the changing values
and ideas expressed in American literature.
Additionally students learn to expand their analytical writing skills in both expository and
persuasive writing.
ENGLISH II CP
Grades: 10
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #017
Weighted Value: 1
Text: Elements of Literature, Fifth Course, Holt Rhinehart
Prerequisite: Minimum final average of 80 in English I; teacher recommendation.
Course Description: Students in this course are introduced to the work ethic and independent
goal-setting fundamentals of the college-bound students. The focus is on improvement of
language skills, writing skills, and vocabulary as well as preparation for the HSPA and the SAT.
Improvement of reading skills is accomplished through an in-depth study of American
literature selections, including such authors as Emerson, Thoreau, Hawthorne, Melville,
17
Whitman, Steinbeck, and Fitzgerald. Fiction and nonfiction selections are utilized from the
earliest days of the New World through the modern era to help students understand and
appreciate the American heritage. To improve writing skills, emphasis is placed on answering
essay questions of the type asked on both the SAT and PARCC. A research paper is used to
reinforce library and internet sources of information. Additional outside readings are required
that supplement class discussions and expository writing.
ENGLISH III
Grades: 11
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #025
Weighted Value: 1
Text: Elements of Literature, Sixth Course, Holt Rhinehart
Prerequisite: teacher recommendation.
Course Description: This general English III course is designed to help with further development of basic language skills. Students will write compositions that involve good style.
Emphasis is placed on various kinds of vocabulary and analyzing British literature. Improvement
of reading skills is accomplished through a study of such authors as Chaucer, Donne, Milton,
Wordsworth, Byron, Shelley, Keats, Browning, Swift, Pope, Blake, and Shakespeare.
ENGLISH III CP
Grades: 11
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #027
Weighted Value: 1
Text: Elements of Literature, Sixth Course, Holt Rhinehart
Prerequisite: Minimum final average of 80 in English II; teacher recommendation.
Course Description: Students in this course focus on the improvement of language skills,
writing skills, and vocabulary. Improvement of reading comprehension skills is accomplished
through an in-depth study of British literature, including such authors as Chaucer, Shakespeare,
Donne, Milton, Wordsworth, Byron, Shelley, Keats, Browning, Tennyson, Wolfe, Thomas,
Lawrence, Auden, and Pope. The development of writing skills centers on the areas of description, criticism, and interpretation. In addition, students focus upon skills necessary in writing
essay responses to questions on college applications. A major emphasis is placed on preparing
students to take the Scholastic Aptitude tests (SATs).
ENGLISH III HONORS
Grade: 11
Credits: 5
Course #028
Full Year Course
Weighted Value: 1.2
Prerequisites: 85 average in English 2 CP and teacher recommendation
Course Description: Students in this honors level course will have the opportunity to apply
their advanced language skills, writing skills, and extensive vocabulary as they closely analyze
works of British literature, including such authors as Chaucer, Shakespeare, Donne, Marlow,
Milton, Wordsworth, Byron, Shelley, Keats, Coleridge, Tennyson, Browning, Housman,
Lawrence, Swift and Pope. Students in this course are expected to read and comprehend
literature independently and proficiently. They will hone their writing skills through frequent
compositions that require literary criticism and interpretation. In addition, students will focus on
developing arguments to support claims, using valid reasoning and sufficient evidence. The
course will also integrate preparation for the Scholastic Aptitude tests (SATs) and composition of
college application essays.
ENGLISH IV
Grades: 12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #035
Weighted Value: 1
Text: Elements of Literature, World Course, Holt Rhinehart
Prerequisite: teacher recommendation.
Course Description: This general English IV course is designed to help with further development of basic language skills. Students write compositions that involve good style. Research
skills are reinforced with the writing of a term paper. World literature is covered in this course.
Emphasis is also placed on vocabulary development.
18
ENGLISH IV CP
Grades: 12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #037
Weighted Value: 1
Text: Elements of Literature, World Course, Holt Rhinehart
Prerequisite: Minimum final average of 80 in English III; teacher recommendation.
Course Description: Students in this course will focus on college essay writing, SAT writing
prompts, SAT/ACT practice during the first marking period. The course will focus on the
improvement of language skills, composition, and vocabulary. Vocabulary study includes the
study of the development of the English language as well as an attempt to increase the student’s
store of words in Greek and Latin. Improvement of reading comprehension skills are
accomplished through the study of world literature including such authors as: Shakespeare,
Chekhov, Kafka, Dante, Ibsen, Camus, Cervantes, Pirandello, Sophocles, Plato, Joyce,
Aristotle, Tolstoy, Flaubert, and Guy de Mauppasant. Improvement of composition, definition,
autobiography, criticism, and research papers is also accomplished. The research paper will
encompass writing technique, thematic research, development of a thesis, proper format utilizing
MLA, and proper documentation. Students will be given outside reading lists to supplement their
reading and assigned papers on books selected.
CREATIVE WRITING
Grades: 9-12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #040
Weighted Value: 1
Text: none
Prerequisite: None
Course Description: This course is students who wish to explore and develop techniques of
writing. Poetry, short stories, and plays are used as models for student work. Students write in
class and at home on a regular basis. Emphasis is placed on workshop and revision of writing
pieces. The best work is collected into a literary arts magazine and produced online.
DRAMA
Grades: 9-12
Credits: 2.5
Semester Course
Course #045
Weighted Value: 1
Text: Basic Drama Projects, Perfection Learning
Co-requisite: #046 Public Speaking
Course Description: In Drama students are introduced to techniques involved in developing
acting and stage skills, theatre organization, play analysis, voice production and articulation,
ensemble work, and critiquing a performance. Students are expected to participate (acting,
dancing, technical aspect such as stage crew, etc.) in a production before either the student
body or the public. They will be offered the opportunity to attend a professional performance.
Students will also have the opportunity to attend various college theatre day productions and
Broadway shows.
PUBLIC SPEAKING
Grades: 9-12
Credits: 2.5
Semester Course
Course #046
Weighted Value: 1
Text: 38 Basic Speech Experiences, Perfection Learning
Co-requisite: #045 Drama
Course Description: In Public Speaking students learn the methods of organization and
delivery needed for giving speeches. These speeches will include informative, persuasive,
orientation, courtesy, and commemorative speeches as well as speaking for special occasions.
The major emphasis of this unit includes overcoming stage fright, vocal exercises, selecting a
topic, finding and preparing material, principles of composition, unity, purpose, supporting
evidence and materials, coherence, and delivery.
19
EVOLUTION OF CINEMA
Grades: 12
Credits: 2.5
Semester Course
Course #047
Weighted Value: 1
Text: none
Prerequisite: None
Course Description: The purpose of this course is to give students an introduction to the
history of film. Students will learn the basics of film and the history and evolution of cinema.
Films will be viewed according to thematic units, and students will analyze how different
filmmakers work within the genres. Included in the course will be a major movie project that
profiles specific film classics as well as noteworthy actors and directors. Students will reflect on
movies and their importance within society.
EVOLUTION OF CINEMA II
Grades: 12
Credits: 2.5
Semester Course
Course #049
Weighted Value: 1
Text: None
Prerequisite: Evolution of Cinema
Evolution of Cinema II is a continuation and practical application of Evolution of Cinema.
Students will be learning about independent films and documentaries and then applying this to
the process of making their own movie. They will learn to make a storyboard, a script, and a
timeline for their work. They will also learn how to work together to create their film.
JOURNALISM
Grades: 10-12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #050
Weighted Value: 1
Text: Introduction to Journalism, Nextext
Prerequisite: None
Course Description: Journalism provides theoretical background and hands-on experience for
students interested in the history, role, and day-to-day operations of newspapers. Areas of
concentration include defining and examining the concept of "news", preparing and executing an
interview, news writing, and basic layout and design. As staff members of Butler High School's
newspaper, The Maple Leaf, students contribute finished articles, assist editors with "deadline"
activities, and discuss artistic and editorial ideas for future issues. Students in this course will
produce issues of The Maple Leaf each year.
YEARBOOK
Grades: 10-12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #080
Weighted Value: 1
Text: None
Prerequisite: Candidates for the Yearbook class must submit a writing sample prior to
admission to the class. The writing sample should be something that the student has completed
during the current school year and should demonstrate his/her strongest work. Students taking
Yearbook for the second time do not need to submit a writing sample.
Course Description: Students enrolled in this course will be members of the yearbook editorial
staff. Their responsibilities include taking, selecting, and cropping photographs; designing page
layouts by hand and on computer programs; writing headline, body, and caption copy; organizing
and scheduling photography days; and designing art work or finding suitable artists within the
school to complete the work. Enrollment is limited and selective. After school participation is an
integral part of marking period grades, and parents/guardians must be willing to provide
transportation.
20
SOCIAL STUDIES
INTRODUCTION
The Social Studies department’s curriculum offers the student an opportunity to
concentrate on a chronological study of American History. In all courses, there will be a
concentration on the student's reading and writing development and on the development of
literary skills in research.
Students are required to take three years of History--one year of World History and two
years of American History. The World History course should be taken in the freshman year.
The American History I course should be taken in the sophomore year and the American History
II course in the junior year. A World History course should be completed prior to taking an
American History course. Students who have shown high aptitude in Social Studies by doing
extremely well in World History will have the opportunity to take the Advanced Placement History
levels.
Honors and Advanced Placement courses require considerable diligence on the part of
the students to excel. They are designed for the purpose of allowing the students to expand
their horizons and strive to go beyond simply assimilating material. They will be required to do
in-depth research and become more involved in the analysis and evaluation of historical data.
Students planning to major in history in college should consider taking history during each
of the four years of high school.
WORLD HISTORY CP
Grades: 9
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #101
Weighted Value: 1
Text: World History and Geography
Prerequisite: A review of PARCC assessment combined with current 8 th grade marking period
grades and teacher recommendation.
Course Description: College preparatory World History is a course that is designed for the
student who plans to further his/her education beyond the secondary level. The class will study
European history from Renaissance to World War I. It is a comprehensive study of modern
World History. The course will also focus on the relationship between Europe and other parts of
the world including the Middle East and the Americas. The material will go beyond the use of
just the textbook and notes. The course will look at the study of world history as a constantly
evolving area of study in which we will compare European and non-European viewpoints in order
to formulate a more complete picture. It will include enrichment activities such as the analysis of
primary and secondary source readings, maps to better understand geographic concepts and
their effect on world events and videos/DVDs. In addition, students will read historical novels to
supplement the curriculum. The course will place a strong emphasis on developing and
understanding the people and forces that have shaped world history. A secondary emphasis will
be on developing the important writing and research skills that are necessary for a successful
college experience. This class is the first in a sequence of courses aimed at a strong
preparation for college level work.
WORLD HISTORY
Grades: 9
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #102
Weighted Value: 1
Text: World History and Geography
Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation
Course Description: The class will study European history from Renaissance through World
War I. The course will also focus on the relationship between Europe and other parts of the
world including Africa and the Americas. The material will go beyond the use of just the textbook
and notes. It will include enrichment activities such as the analysis of primary and secondary
source readings, maps to better understand geographic concepts and their effect on world
events and videos/DVDs. The course will look at the study of world history as a constantly
21
evolving area of study in which we will compare European and non-European viewpoints in order
to formulate a more complete picture. This course is designed to prepare the students to enter
the study of United States history from the colonial period through reconstruction.
WORLD HISTORY HONORS
Grades: 9
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #105
Weighted Value: 1.2
Text: World History: People and Nations
Prerequisite: A review of PARCC assessment combined with current 8 th grade marking period
grades and teacher recommendation.
Course Description: The course stresses an understanding of the events and trends of modern
Europe and how they influenced the colonization and development of the Americas. The honors
course provides a solid background for those students who intend to enroll in the U.S. History
A.P. program. The course concentrates on three major areas: concepts, major historical facts,
and historical analysis. The skills necessary for writing thematic essays and document-based
essays will be stressed as an integral part of the assessment process. In addition to a required
text, students will be assigned several outside readings of significant historical relevance.
Students who successfully complete the course are expected to demonstrate knowledge
of basic chronology and of major events and trends from approximately 1350 to 1917. Students
will also be able to demonstrate an ability to analyze historical evidence and to express that
understanding within the framework of a well-developed essay.
U.S.HISTORY I CP
Grades: 10
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #131
Weighted Value: 1
Text: The Americans
Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation
Course Description: U.S. History I College Prep presents a chronological study of America
from exploration through the period of Reconstruction. The course stresses the political, social,
and economic factors that influenced the development of eighteenth and nineteenth century
America. This course is designed to provide students with a solid background for the continued
study of history.
Students use an inquiry approach to studying history, emphasizing documents, original
materials, primary sources, maps etc. Much emphasis is placed upon individual reading and
analysis. Students are expected to draw conclusions both orally and in writing. Students will
read several historical novels as a complement to the material.
U.S. HISTORY I
Grades: 10
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #132
Weighted Value: 1
Text: The Americans
Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation
Course Description: U.S. History I is a course which presents students with a chronological
examination of America from the period of exploration and settlement through the period of
Reconstruction. The course stresses the political, social and economic background of America.
In addition, the course emphasizes study skills that are useful for developing and understanding
of history. Such skills as outlining, map recognition, cause and effect and essay writing are
stressed. In addition, students focus on the study of national and world affairs in order to
develop a better understanding of the United States and its current place in the world.
U.S. HISTORY II CP
Grades: 11
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #141
Weighted Value: 1
Text: The Americans
Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation
Course Description: U.S. History II College Prep follows the progression of history, maintaining
the same chronological sequence as the U. S. History I program. Beginning with the Gilded
22
Age, the students will study the growth and development of America. Woven into the curriculum
is an examination of the institutions and principles of the American system of government, as
well as an ongoing study of current events.
U.S. HISTORY II
Grades: 11
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #142
Weighted Value: 1
Text: The Americans
Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation
Course Description: U. S. History II continues the progression of American history, maintaining
the same chronological sequence as the U. S. History program. Beginning with the Progressive
Era and the Spanish-American War, the students will investigate the growth and development of
America from the late nineteenth century to the present day. Woven into the curriculum will be
an examination of the institutions and principles of the American system of government, as well
as an ongoing study of current events.
SOCIOLOGY
Grades: 12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #151
Weighted Value: 1
Text: Sociology/The Study of Human Relationships
Prerequisite: 12th Grade Students
Course Description: In this senior elective, students study a series of social problems and
matters of concern to themselves and the world around them. Units of study include world
cultures and traditions, heredity and environment, social interaction, minority groups, violence,
death and dying, dating, marriage and family. A major emphasis is placed on class participation,
group projects, and the writing of reaction papers associated with various chapter units.
Students will make oral tapings, research community opinion, participate in role-playing
situations, and create audio-visual projects on subjects of contemporary concern.
PSYCHOLOGY CP
Grades: 11-12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #155
Weighted Value: 1
Text: N/A
Prerequisite: Minimum final average of 70% in two years of lab science courses
Course Description: This course introduces students to the workings of the human mind and
how it affects behavior. Topics stressed in this course include: personality, motivation and
emotions, growth and development, mental health and mental illness, and psychological
methods and statistics. The course utilizes experimental techniques throughout the year to
enable students to experiment with the concepts being taught.
CIVIL/CRIMINAL LAW
Grades: 11-12
Credits: 5
Full Year Course
Course # 156
Weighted Value: 1
Text:
Prerequisite: None
Course Description: The law class is an introduction to the basics of law and the legal system.
The course is designed to introduce the students to the various facets of law as it affects their
everyday lives as well as familiarize them with the workings of our criminal justice system. It
aims to give students a better understanding of how law works and better prepare them to face
adult responsibilities. Units include school law, constitutional law, criminal law, juvenile justice,
torts, contracts and family law. Students have the opportunity to hear speakers who have made
careers in the justice system and discuss current issues in the field.
23
INTRO TO MICRO AND MACRO ECONOMICS
Grades: 10-12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #159
Weighted Value: 1
Text: Economics: Principles in Action
Prerequisite: None
Course Description: Micro-economics is the social science that studies the ways individual
economic agents allocate scarce resources to unlimited wants. Topics for the course will include
introductions to: economic systems, supply and demand, elasticity of supply and demand,
pricing, consumer behavior, firm behavior, competition, and domestic markets.
Macroeconomics is the social science that studies the way societies, in the aggregate,
allocate scarce resources to unlimited wants. Topics for the course will include introductions to:
The Federal Reserve, supply and demand, gross domestic product, inflation, recession,
unemployment, aggregate private investment, government fiscal policy, monetary policy, and
the effects that each of these have on the nation’s economy.
24
SCIENCE
INTRODUCTION
The Science Department has two major goals: 1) to offer courses that will enable all
students to become scientifically literate and concerned individuals able to function confidently in
our increasingly technological society; and 2) to give students preparing for professional work in
science and related fields a broad background and a depth of understanding in both the physical
and life sciences.
EARTH SCIENCE
Grades: 9-12
Credits: 5
Full-Year
Course
Course #216
Weighted Value: 1
Text: Earth Science, Prentice Hall
Prerequisite: None
Course Description: This course investigates the concepts of Earth Science. Topics such as
Mapping, Rocks, Minerals, Plate Tectonics, Earthquakes, Volcanoes, Weathering, the Water
Cycle, and Astronomy are discussed. Evaluations will be in the form of portfolios, reviews,
quizzes and tests.
LIFE SCIENCE
Grades: 9-12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #217
Weighted Value: 1
Text: Biology, Holt Reinhart Winston
Prerequisite: None
Course Description: This course investigates the concepts of Biology. Topics such as the
chemistry of living things, cells, heredity, biotechnology, ecology, evolution and microbes are
discussed. Evaluations will be in the form of portfolios, reviews, quizzes and tests.
PHYSICAL SCIENCE
Grades: 9-12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #218
Weighted Value: 1
Text: Physical Science, Prentice Hall
Prerequisite: none
Course Description: This course investigates the concepts of Physical Science. Topics such
as Matter, Chemical reactions, Motion, Forces, Energy, Sound, Light, Electricity and Magnetism
are discussed. Evaluations will be in the form of portfolios, reviews, quizzes and tests.
BIOLOGY CP
Course #212
Text: Biology, Glencoe Science/McGraw Hill
Prerequisite: None
Course Description: Biology is the study of living organisms and their vital processes.
Concepts such as the scientific method, chemistry of living things, cells, genetics, ecology,
biotechnology, evolution and diversity are explored. Laboratory techniques including use of the
microscope will be utilized.
BIOLOGY I HONORS
Grades: 9-10
Credits: 6
Full-Year Course
Course #210
Weighted Value: 1.2
Text: Life on Earth, 8th edition, Prentice Hall
Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation
Course Description: The Biology I Honors course is an excellent preparation for the advanced
sciences offered at Butler High School. This course follows the Biology I course outline. The
topics will be presented with more depth requiring the students to understand concepts as well
as factual information. The scope of the course is broadened to include advanced topics
selected from the Advanced Placement Biology Text. Writing techniques in science are
stressed.
25
CHEMISTRY CP
Grades: 10-12
Credits: 6
Full-Year Course
Course #219
Weighted Value: 1
Text: Modern Chemistry, Holt Reinhart Winston, 2009
Prerequisite: Minimum final average of 75 in Algebra I and Biology teacher recommendation.
Course Description: What are substances composed of? How are their properties related to
their composition? How does one substance interact with another? The study of chemistry
attempts to answer these and other similar questions. Emphasis is placed on instructing
students in proper laboratory techniques. The use of calculators is encouraged for solving
problems. Students taking chemistry are expected to conduct experiments and to submit
carefully prepared laboratory reports.
CHEMISTRY HONORS
Grades: 10-12
Credits: 6
Full-Year Course
Course #220
Weighted Value: 1.2
Text: Modern Chemistry, Holt Reinhart Winston, 2009
Prerequisite: Minimum final average of 80 in Algebra I and Biology Honors; teacher
recommendation.
Course Description: What are substances composed of? How are their properties related to
their composition? How does one substance interact with another? The study of chemistry
attempts to answer these and other similar questions. Emphasis is placed on instructing
students in proper laboratory techniques. The use of calculators is encouraged for solving
problems. Students taking chemistry are expected to conduct experiments and to submit
carefully prepared laboratory reports.
FORENSIC SCIENCE
Grades: 11-12
Credits: 6
Full-Year Course
Course #224
Weighted Value: 1.4
Text: Criminalistics: An Introduction to Forensic Science, Pearson,
Prentice Hall NJ, 2007
Prerequisite: Minimum final grade of 85 in Chemistry Honors and teacher recommendation
Course Description: This course refers to the use and infusion of science and technology to
law. The course will focus on the integration of science and technology for the purpose of
solving crimes and enforcing criminal and civil law. Students will integrate and apply their
knowledge of biology, chemistry and physics to solve crimes and analyze crime scenes. The
course begins with an Organic Chemistry Unit to lay the foundation for the rest of the year.
PHYSICS CP
Grades: 11-12
Credits: 6
Full-Year Course
Course #243
Weighted Value: 1
Text: Conceptual Physics, Paul Hewitt, 2006
Prerequisite: Algebra I and Plane Geometry
Course Description: Physics CP emphasizes learning the fundamental principles of nature
from which concepts can be derived. In reality, the basic laws and rules, if understood, are what
students use for the rest of their lives by applying them to a myriad of situations. The course goal
is to facilitate students understanding of the rules of nature by learning their foundations, not by
learning their mathematical derivations. This course contains a lab component.
Grades: 11-12
Credits: 6
PHYSICS HONORS
Full-Year Course
Course #245
Weighted Value: 1.2
Text: College Physics, Serway/Faughn, 6 th edition
Prerequisite: Algebra II Honors; teacher recommendation
Course Description: Physics is the study of energy, motion, space, time, light, and electricity.
Laboratory investigations are used to discover, explore, or demonstrate various physical
phenomena. Labs, lectures, and group activities are interrelated into a unified teaching concept
of physics.
26
BIOLOGY II CP
Grades: 10-12
Credits: 6
Full-Year Course
Course #251
Weighted Value: 1
Text: Biology, Glencoe Science/McGraw Hill
Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation
Course Description: Biology II is the study of human biology including the nervous, skeletal,
digestive, respiratory, circulatory, excretory and endocrine systems. Human reproduction and
development are also included. The second semester includes the study of ecology. The
course includes a laboratory component.
MARINE BIOLOGY CP
Grades: 11-12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #256
Weighted Value: 1
Text: Intro to Marine Biology. 2nd edition, Thomson-Brook/Cole
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology CP or Biology Honors
Course Description: Marine Biology is for students interested in learning more about the
marine environment. The focus of this class is to understand ways in which marine organisms
interact with each other and their physical environment. Topics will include the marine
environment and organisms, ecosystems of the ocean, and humans’ relationship to the ocean.
Field trips and lab exercises will be incorporated to gain an in-depth understanding of the topics.
HUMAN GENETICS/ETHICAL ISSUES IN
Grades: 11-12
Credits: 5
SCIENCE CP
Full-Year Course Weighted Value: 1
Course #257
Text: Concepts of Genetics, Pearson Prentice Hall
Prerequisite: Students must be in their Junior or Senior year.
Course Description: Human Genetics/Ethical Issues in Science is an elective for juniors and
seniors. Human Genetics is taught in the fall semester. This course takes an overview of the
most rapidly changing sciences today, one which impacts directly on the lives of everyone.
Students will have the opportunity to discover how traits are passed from one generation to the
next and what happens when things go wrong. They will examine human pedigrees, human
karotypes (chromosomes), techniques in genetic engineering, and a variety of genetic problems.
Ethical Issues in Science is taught in the spring semester. Some of the issues that are
discussed include medical ethics, human experimentation, cloning, euthanasia, genetic
counseling, toxic waste, nuclear holocaust and current science issues as they arise.
27
MATHEMATICS
INTRODUCTION
The mathematics curriculum provides for a sequential presentation of the subject which
is designed to contribute to the present and probable future educational, vocational and cultural
needs of students. The courses are organized into sequences at various ability levels in an
attempt to meet the individual needs of all students.
Students should remember when planning their program that most colleges require a minimum
of three years of high school mathematics. The curricular requirements for three years of high
school mathematics at BHS are Algebra I, Plane Geometry and Algebra II. Students who
successfully complete Algebra I in eighth grade may be exempt from the course at high school.
ALGEBRA I CP
Grades: 9-12
Credits: 5
Full-Year
Course
Course #302
Weighted Value: 1
Text: Algebra 1 Common Core - Pearson
Prerequisite: placement criteria: calculated per district mathematics placement rubric
Course Description: Algebra I follows the common core state standards in Mathematics. Many
of the concepts presented in Algebra I are progressions of concepts started in grades 6 through
8; the content presented in this course is intended to extend and deepen the previous
understandings.
The units covered include: working with expressions and equations, linear and exponential
relationships, quadratic functions that are complex, extension of concepts of integer exponents
to rational exponents and descriptive statistics with regression analysis.
ALGEBRA I
Grades: 9-12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #303
Weighted Value: 1
Text: Algebra 1 Common Core - Pearson
Prerequisite: placement criteria: calculated per district mathematics placement rubric
The course will follow the same standards as the Algebra I CP course but with the instruction
differentiated for better understanding of the concepts. Focus will be on using manipulatives
and alternative presentations of the standards so the student meets with success.
GEOMETRY
Grades: 10-11
Credits: 5
Full-Year
Course
Course #304
Weighted Value: 1
Text:
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra I; teacher recommendation
Course Description: The course will follow the same standards as the Geometry I course but
with the instruction differentiated for better understanding of the concepts. Focus will be on
using manipulatives and alternative presentations of the standards so the student meets with
success.
ALGEBRA II
Grades: 11-12
Credits: 5
Full-Year
Course
Course #305
Weighted Value: 1
Text: Algebra 2 Common Core Pearson
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra I and Geometry; teacher recommendation
Course Description: This course will follow the same standards as the Algebra II CPcourse
but with the instruction differentiated for better understanding of the concepts. Focus will be on
using manipulatives and alternative presentations of the standards so the student meets with
success.
28
GEOMETRY HONORS
Grades: 9-12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #311
Weighted Value: 1.2
Text:
Prerequisite: placement criteria: calculated per district mathematics placement rubric or 90% in
High School Algebra I.
Course Description: The Geometry courses will follow the common core state standards for
Geometry. The standards presented in high school are meant to formalize and extend middle
grades geometric experiences. The units will include: constructions, proving theorems, dilations
and proportional reasoning, similarity of right triangles, right triangle trigonometry, laws of sines
and cosines, circles, similarity within circles, proofs of circle concepts, application from 2-D to
3-D objects, area and volume. The common core state standards will be taught at a more
rigorous, challenging level.
GEOMETRY CP
Grades: 9-12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #312
Weighted Value: 1
Text:
Prerequisite: placement criteria: calculated per district mathematics placement rubric; 75 in
Algebra 1 CP or 85 in Algebra 1
Course Description: The Geometry courses will follow the common core state standards for
Geometry. The standards presented in high school are meant to formalize and extend middle
grades geometric experiences. The units will include: constructions, proving theorems, dilations
and proportional reasoning, similarity of right triangles, right triangle trigonometry, laws of sines
and cosines, circles, similarity within circles, proofs of circle concepts, application from 2D to
3D objects, area and volume.
ALGEBRA II HONORS
Grades: 10-12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #321
Weighted Value: 1.2
Text: Algebra 2 Common Core Pearson
Prerequisite: Minimum final grade of 90 in Algebra I and Geometry Honors; and teacher
recommendation
Course Description: The course follows the common core state standards in Mathematics.
Algebra II builds on the understanding of linear, quadratic and exponential functions from
Algebra I, and will extend function concepts to include polynomial, rational and radical functions.
There is a continuation of modeling situations and solving equations. The units covered
include: focus on the similarities of rational expressions, algebra knowledge of linear,
exponential, polynomial, rational, radical and absolute value functions, trigonometric functions,
modeling periodic phenomena, transformations, statistics, probability. The standards at the
Honors level will be taught at a more rigorous, challenging level.
ALGEBRA II CP
Grades: 10-12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #322
Weighted Value: 1
Text: Algebra 2 Common Core Pearson
Prerequisite: Minimum final grade of 75 in Algebra I and Geometry; and teacher
recommendation
Course Description: The course follows the common core state standards in Mathematics.
Algebra II builds on the understanding of linear, quadratic and exponential functions from
Algebra I, and will extend function concepts to include polynomial, rational and radical functions.
There is a continuation of modeling situations and solving equations. The units covered
include: focus on the similarities of rational expressions, algebra knowledge of linear,
exponential, polynomial, rational, radical and absolute value functions, trigonometric functions,
modeling periodic phenomena, transformations, statistics, probability.
29
SELECTED TOPICS IN MATHEMATICS
Grade: 12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #323
Weighted Value: 1
Text: Algebra and Trigonometry for College Readiness, Lial Hornsby
Prerequisite: Minimum final grade of 70 in Algebra II; and teacher recommendation
Course Description: This course is designed to reinforce basic mathematical concepts for the
senior student. A review of basic skills necessary for the college placement exams will be
covered as well as practical math topics such as SAT review and personal finance.
SELECTED TOPICS IN MATHEMATICS CP
Grade: 12
Credits: 5
Course: 323A
Weighted Value: 1
Text: Various Resources used
Algebra and Trigonometry for College Readiness, Lial Hornsby; IXL.com, Kahn
Academy, Test Review materials
Prerequisite: Minimum final grade of 70 in Algebra 2 CP
Course Description: This course provides additional practice in algebraic concepts necessary
for high stakes and placement testing, (ie: SAT, ACT and Accuplacer). The emphasis is on
functions and their application to real world situations. The course is designed to strengthen a
student’s algebraic skills for college.
PRECALCULUS HONORS
Grades: 11-12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #331
Weighted Value: 1.2
Text: Precalculus-Graphical, Numerical, Algebraic, Finney, Demano, Waits, Kinne, Pearson
Prerequisite: Minimum final average of 85 in Geometry Honors and Algebra II Honors or
minimum final average of 85 in Algebra II; and Teacher Recommendation
Course Description: This subject provides the student with the mathematics backing necessary
for the study of Calculus and Advanced Placement Calculus. A rigorous approach, additional
topics and in-depth solutions to challenging problems are the distinguishing factors between this
course and Pre-Calculus.
PRECALCULUS CP
Grades: 11-12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #332
Weighted Value: 1
Text: Precalculus – Graphical, Numerical, Algebraic/ Finney, Demano, Waits, Kinne, Pearson
Prerequisite: Minimum final average of 80 in Geometry CP and Algebra II CP; and teacher
recommendation
Course Description: This subject provides the students with the knowledge necessary for the
study of Calculus. The content of this course includes: factoring and determining the roots of
polynomial equations as well as the graphing of polynomial functions, solving polynomial
inequalities, discerning relations among function exponents and logarithms. Trigonometric
functions are studied in depth and probability and statistics are extensively covered.
CALCULUS HONORS
Grades: 12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #333
Weighted Value: 1.2
Text: Calculus-Graphical, Numerical, Algebraic/Finney, Demano, Waits, Kinney/PEARSON
Prerequisite: Minimum final average of 85 in Precalculus CP, or 80 in Precalculus Honors,
Teacher Recommendation
Course Description: This introduction to the study of Calculus emphasizes the concepts of
limits, derivatives, and integrals. The topics learned will be taught with an emphasis on real
world applications (scientific, economic, and business). The course is designed to help students
prepare for their college calculus classes.
30
MATHEMATICS LAB II
Grades: 11
Credits: 5
Full Year Course
Course #370
Weighted Value: 1
Text: None
Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation based on testing
Course Description: This course is required for juniors who need to reinforce requisite math
skills required to pass the PARCC assessment. This semester course will supplement the
student’s regular math course. The topics of study will vary to meet the needs of the individual
student and class.
MATHEMATICS LAB I
Grades: 9 & 10
Credits: 5
Course #371
Full Year Course
Weighted Value: 1
Text: None
Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation based on testing
Course Description: This course is required for freshmen and sophomores who need to
reinforce requisite math skills required to pass the PARCC assessment. This semester course
will supplement the student’s regular math course. The topics of study will vary to meet the
needs of the individual student and class.
31
WORLD LANGUAGES
INTRODUCTION
The World Language Department offers a range of language study paced to meet the
individual needs and abilities of our students. Our goal is not only to equip students with the
knowledge and skills required for effective communication in the target language, but also to
impart to them an understanding of and an appreciation for the world cultures.
FRENCH I
Grades: 9-12
Credits: 5 each
Full-Year Course
Course #401
Weighted Value: 1
Text: Discovering French Bleu, McDougal Littell
Prerequisite: None
Course Description: The specific aims are to foster an understanding of authentic speech, i.e.,
language used in complete and meaningful utterances by a native speaker or by one who is fully
or nearly bilingual speaking at a normal rate of speed. We seek to develop good conversational
skills by emphasizing the structure of the language through strategic pattern sentences. From
the beginning, students are taught to ask as well as to answer questions and to handle the forms
and the tenses of verbs, which are the backbone of any language. Reading and writing skills as
well as cultural knowledge are developed through dialogues and exercises in the text and in
supplementary reading that utilize real-life situations to which teenagers can relate. At all times
we seek to make language learning a pleasant experience within the framework of a disciplined,
serious, and worthwhile commitment.
FRENCH II
Grades: 9-12
Credits: 5
Course #403
Full-Year Course
Weighted Value: 1
Text: Discovering French Blanc, McDougal Littel
Prerequisite: Successful completion of French I
Course Description: The specific aims are to foster an understanding of authentic speech,
i.e., language used in complete and meaningful utterances by a native speaker or by one who is
fully or nearly bilingual, speaking at a normal rate of speed. We seek to develop good
conversational skills by emphasizing the structure of the language through strategic pattern
sentences. From the beginning, students are taught to ask as well as to answer questions and
to handle the forms and the tenses of verbs, which are the backbone of any language. Reading
and writing skills as well as cultural knowledge are developed through dialogues and exercises
in the text and in supplementary reading that utilize real-life situations to which teenagers can
relate. At all times we seek to make language learning a pleasant experience within the
framework of a disciplined, serious, and worthwhile commitment.
FRENCH III
Grades: 11-12
Credits: 5
Course #405
Full-Year Course
Weighted Value: 1
Text: Discovering French Rouge, McDougal Littel
Prerequisite: This course is intended for the capable students who have demonstrated target
language proficiency in Level II courses.
Course Description: Conversation is expanded, utilizing the more advanced grammatical
concepts and structures learned throughout the third year. Reading and writing skills are
perfected through stories, poems, and exercises in the regular text and in supplementary
readers. Compositions are assigned in order to enhance the student’s creative ability in the
written language.
32
FRENCH IV HONORS
Grades: 11-12
Credits: 5 each
Full-Year Course
Course #407
Weighted Value: 1.2
Text: Discovering French Rouge, McDougal Littell
Prerequisite: This course is intended for the capable students who have demonstrated target
language proficiency in the Level III course.
Course Description: Conversation is expanded, utilizing the more advanced grammatical
concepts and structures learned throughout the fourth year. Reading and writing skills are
perfected through stories, poems, and exercises in the regular text and in supplementary
readers. Compositions are assigned in order to enhance the student’s creative ability in the
written language.
ITALIAN II
Grades: 10-12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #433
Weighted Value: 1
Text: Avanti con L’italiano, Amsco Publishing
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Italian I
Course Description: The objective of Italian II is two-fold.
1. To help each student attain an acceptable degree of proficiency in the four skills:
speaking, listening, reading and writing.
2. To present and use the language within the context of the contemporary Italian life and
culture.
Italian II presents the more complex structures of the basic Italian and expands the
cultural themes of the first year level.
By the end of the second year, students should be able to use with confidence the basic
structure of the language, acquire a command of the key vocabulary necessary for personal
communication, and recognize many more words in speech and in writing. They should have
mastered the basic features of the sound system to facilitate oral communication which will
enable them to function effectively in social situations and to use the Italian language creatively
within controlled limits.
ITALIAN III
Grades: 11-12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #435
Weighted Value: 1
Text: Oggi in Italia, Houghton Mifflin
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Italian I and II
Course Description: The overall objectives are to develop the skills of communication that
enable the student to understand, speak, read and write the language. Students are also taught
that the language itself is culture and reflects the way members of a cultural community think
and behave.
The goals are to develop conversational skills by emphasizing the structure of the
language through strategic pattern sentences. From the beginning, students are taught to ask
as well as to answer questions and to handle the forms of the verb tenses that are the backbone
of the Italian language.
Reading and writing skills are developed through dialogues and exercises in the text and
supplementary readings, which utilize real-life situations which teenagers can relate to.
ITALIAN IV HONORS
Grades: 12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #437
Weighted Value: 1.2
Text: Oggi in Italia, Houghton Mifflin
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Italian I, II, and III
Course Description: The overall objectives are to develop the skills of communication that
enable the student to understand, speak, read, and write language. Students are also taught
that language itself is culture and reflects the way members of a cultural community think and
behave. The relationship between Italian and English language is explored. The student
33
becomes aware of the ways in which volume, pitch, tone of voice, and facial expressions switch
levels of discourse as context of communication changes.
Conversation is expanded utilizing the more advanced grammatical concepts and
structures learned throughout the third year. Newspapers, magazines, catalogs, audio-visual
materials are used. Italian news broadcasts are also used to stay abreast of events, political
situations, and communication. Reading and writing skills are perfected through stories, poems,
and supplementary readers. Students are asked to express opinions and ideas in short
compositions and oral presentations.
SPANISH I
Grades: 9-12
Credits: 5 each
Full-Year Course
Course #421
Weighted Value: 1
Text: Navegando Level 1, Funston/Vargas/Bonilla
Prerequisite: None
Course Description: The specific aims are to foster an understanding of authentic speech, i.e.,
language used in complete and meaningful utterances by a native speaker or by one who is fully
or nearly bilingual speaking at a normal rate of speed. The instructor seeks to develop good
conversational skills by emphasizing the structure of the language through strategic pattern
sentences. From the beginning, students are taught to ask as well as to answer questions and
to handle the forms and the tenses of verbs, which are the backbone of any language. Reading
and writing skills are developed through dialogues and exercises in the text and in
supplementary reading that utilize real-life situations to which teenagers can relate. At all times
the instructor seeks to make language learning a pleasant experience within the framework of a
disciplined, serious, and worthwhile commitment.
SPANISH II
Grades: 9-12
Credits: 5
Course #423
Full-Year Course
Weighted Value: 1
Text: Navegando Level 2 By Funston/Vargas/Bonilla
Prerequitise: Successful completion of Spanish I
Course Description: The specific aims are to foster an understanding of authentic speech, i.e.,
language used in complete and meaningful utterances by a native speaker or by one who is fully
or nearly bilingual, speaking at a normal rate of speed. The instructor seeks to develop good
conversational skills by emphasizing the structure of the language through strategic pattern
sentences. From the beginning, students are taught to ask as well as to answer questions and
to handle the forms and the tenses of verbs, which are the backbone of any language. Reading
and writing skills are developed through dialogues and exercises in the text and in
supplementary reading which utilize real-life situations to which teenagers can relate. At all
times does the instructor seek to make language learning a pleasant experience within the
framework of a disciplined, serious and worthwhile commitment.
SPANISH III
Grades: 11-12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #425
Weighted Value: 1
Text: Navegando Level 3, Funston/Vargas/Bonilla
Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation and a final average of at least a 75 in Spanish II
Course Description: Spanish III is a proficiency oriented course to further the development of
level II basics. In the third year students will study more complex grammatical concepts,
concentrate on oral and reading comprehension and develop skills for self-expression in reading
and writing. By the end of the third year course students should use with confidence the four
basic structures of the language and gain an appreciation for the culture.
34
SPANISH IV HONORS
Grades: 11-12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #430
Weighted Value: 1.2
Text: Spanish in Two Years, Amsco Publications
Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation with a minimum grade of 80 in Spanish III Honors
Course Description: The primary aim of Spanish IV is to continue the development and
improvement of the listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. The conversational skills
continue to be expanded, utilizing advanced grammatical concepts and structures. Cultural
readings are presented in various formats: newspaper and magazine articles, songs, poems,
short stories, novels, and plays. Compositions are assigned in order to enhance the students’
creative abilities in written language.
35
BUSINESS EDUCATION
INTRODUCTION
The Business Education department is cognizant of the changing and complex system of
our economy and the importance of developing economic understanding, attitudes, and skills
needed by all students. To meet this challenge, we have developed a two-fold program in our
Business Education department, namely: general economic understanding for all and skill
development for initial business employment.
FRESHMEN EXPERIENCE/PERSONAL FINANCE
Grades: 9
Credits: 5
Full Year Course Weighted Value: 1
Course #071
Text: Career Choices Academic Innovations 2005
Co-requisite: none
Course Description: Who am I? What do I want? How do I get there? These are some of the
questions students will be answering during this course. The course will give freshmen students
the opportunity to explore their own abilities, ambitions, and dreams and how this knowledge can
be applied to a realistic life plan for their future. The course helps empower students to
recognize their strengths to succeed and develop a vision for their future. Self-discovery and
reflections is critical to a successful transition from child to adult: student to worker. This
curriculum will facilitate the creation of a “ten year plan”. This plan includes college, career and
vocational exploration, as well as budgeting and resource management strategies to accomplish
realistic goals. The course steers students toward self-reliance and utilizes up to date
technology to be competitive and successful in today’s society. This is a required course for all
freshmen students. This course meets the state requirement for personal finance literacy.
PERSONAL FINANCE AND CAREERS
Grades:
Credits: 2.5
Semester Course
Course #571
Weighted Value: 1
Text: Lifestyle Math Academic Innovations 2006
Co-requisite: Freshmen Experience
Course Description: While focusing on the student’s role as citizen, student, family member,
consumer, and active participant in the business world. The Personal Finance curriculum
informs students of their various financial responsibilities, and provides opportunities for selfawareness, expression and satisfaction in a highly technical and competitive society. Students
discover new ways to maximize their earning potential, develop strategies for managing their
resources, explore skills for the wise use of credit, and gain insight into the different ways of
investing money. Career exploration is also emphasized. This course meets the state
requirement for personal finance literacy.
INTRODUCTION TO BUSINESS
Grades: 9-12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #510
Weighted Value: 1
Text: Intro to Business South Western
Prerequisite: none
-Course Description: Introduction to Business is a course designed to introduce the student to
the business world. It provides the student with necessary background needed to understand
the economic problems of today's modern and complex business world. In this program of
studies an emphasis is placed on career education, case studies and computer simulations
relating to marketing principles.
The Introduction to Business course explains the role and purpose of business in our economic
system with emphasis on what everyone should know to function effectively as a consumer, a
worker, and a citizen in a free enterprise system. This is a course designed to aid every student,
not just business education majors. Students may join DECA (Business Club).
36
INTRO TO MARKETING AND MANAGEMENT
Grades: 10-12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #515
Weighted Value: 1
Text: Marketing Essentials, Glencoe
Prerequisite: none
Course Description: Introduction to Marketing and Management is a course that is offered on
the sophomore, junior and senior level. The students learn about the basic ingredients of selling,
advertising, marketing, display, promotion, merchandising, economics, marketing mathematics,
operations, and entrepreneurship. In addition, they will learn about various styles, theories and
function of management. Students may explore careers in: fashion merchandising, money and
banking, supermarket industry, advertising, service station retailing, restaurant industry,
hotel/motel management, travel and tourism, E-Commerce, Technical Marketing, and other
related areas. Students may join DECA (Business Club).
SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT MARKETING
Grades: 11-12
Credits: 5
Full-Year
Course
Course #535
Weighted Value: 1
Text: Sports and Entertainment marketing/South Western Cengage
Prerequisite: Introduction to Business or Introduction to Marketing
Course Description: Sports and Entertainment Marketing is a specialized course for students
with a career interest in the fields of sports and/or entertainment. In addition to providing
knowledge of marketing, this course will provide the educational and experiential understanding
of the business of sports and entertainment.
The main emphasis of the course is the presentation of the business-related opportunities
in sports and entertainment that include–apparel licensing, broadcast negotiations and programming, advertising and sponsorship agreements, public relations, event/stadium arena
management, and labor relations. Students may join DECA (Business Club).
WEB DESIGN
Grades: 9 -12
Credits: 2.5
Semester Course
Course #355
Weighted Value: 1
Text: none
Prerequisite: none
Course Description: A project-based semester course that teaches basic web design and its
development process. Focus will be on topics such as beginning HTML, Web standards and
accessibility, communication skills and strategies, creation of Web media and the planning,
development, publishing and evaluation of Web sites. The project-based activities include
teamwork strategies that reflect real-world work skills and the activities performed by
professional Web designers. Students will work with Microsoft Expression Studio software.
ENTREPRENEURSHIP/SMALL BUSINESS MNGT. Grades: 11-12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course Weighted Value: 1
Course #530
Text: Entrepreneurship: Business to Business, Glencoe, 2010
Prerequisite: Introduction to Business or Introduction to Marketing
Course Description: This course will give students the information and decision making skills
necessary to start a small business and make it grow. It also benefits students who don’t start or
run their own business. The course offers employees a glance at the business arena and helps
all students understand their roles as consumers. There is a special emphasis on developing a
business plan.
37
WORD PROCESSING – KEYBOARDING SKILLS Grades: 9-12
Credits: 2.5
Semester Course Weighted Value: 1
Course # 570
Text:
Prerequisite:
Course Description: This course is designed for students who need to learn how to use a
personal word processing program to type high school and college papers. Students learn the
Google Docs online processing program with emphasis on proper techniques in preparing term
papers, reports, letters of application, etc. The skills acquired in this course are of significant
benefit throughout the high school and college years.
38
INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY
INTRODUCTION
Schools prepare students for the world in which they live. Industrial Technology plays an
important role towards this end. It reinforces basic education and responds to the latest technologies developed for both the home and for industry. Problem solving is emphasized in all areas.
COMPUTER AIDED DRAWING (CAD)
Grades: 10-12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #636
Weighted Value: 1
Text: Key Creator Cook Book
Prerequisite: Algebra I
Course Description: By employing problem solving techniques, and utilizing the latest
technology, participants will learn how to apply CAD operations to communicate in a pictorial
manner. This course will be beneficial to those individuals with a technical inclination. It will also
serve as a great introduction to anyone who is considering a future in a variety of engineering
fields, architecture, construction or manufacturing.
COMPUTER AIDED DRAWING (CAD) II
Grades: 11-12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #638
Weighted Value: 1
Text: Key Creator Cook Book
Prerequisite: Minimum final average of 83 in CAD I
Course Description: Computer Aided Drawing II continues employing problem solving
techniques, and utilizing the KeyCreator 12.6 program operations to communicate in a pictorial
manner. CAD II concentrates on the engineering applications of the program same as CAD I,
while venturing into advance techniques in mold making and sheet metal bending. This course
will be beneficial to those individuals with a technical inclination. It will also serve as a great
introduction to anyone who is considering a future in a variety of engineering fields, architecture,
construction or manufacturing.
DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY I
Grades: 9-12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #650
Weighted Value: 1
Text: none
Prerequisite: none
Course Description: Digital Photography I course is a full year course available to students who
are interested in learning how to use a DSLR (digital single lens reflex) camera and professional
grade computer programs such as Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. Students who enroll in the
Digital Photo I course will learn how to set up the shutter, aperture, and ISO manually and be
taught how to read the information that the DSLR offers to achieve the correct exposure. The
course will spend the first semester learning how to use the DSLR, the history of photography,
downloading, and photo manipulation and enhancement using Adobe Photoshop. The second
semester will focus on compositional techniques and strategies with theme based challenges.
The pinnacle project will be the set up and display of the students work in the Butler High School
Art Show. The Digital Photography I class is a challenging course that is ideal for any student
considering a career in photography or anyone who has the perseverance to gain the knowledge
to obtain superior quality photographs from equipment they currently own or plan on purchasing.
39
DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY II
Grades: 10-12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #655
Weighted Value: 1
Text: none
Prerequisite: Minimum final average of 83 in Photo I
Course Description: Photography II is for students who are interested in learning advanced
camera techniques. Students spend the first semester using the 35mm SLR camera and the
second semester will be dedicated to the digital camera and the Adobe Photoshop program.
This course is ideal for any student considering a career in photography or would like to gain the
knowledge to obtain superior quality photographs from the equipment they currently own.
Owning a 35mm SLR and a digital camera is highly recommended.
40
HOME TECHNOLOGY
INTRODUCTION
Home Technology is education for life! The curriculum comprises a group of
related courses for the purpose of enabling students to acquire knowledge and to
develop understanding, attitudes, values, and skills relevant to personal careers and
daily living. Home Technology occupies an important place in the total educational
experience because of the dual responsibility in the home and in the labor force.
FOODS I
Grades: 9-12
Credits: 5
Full-Year
Course
Course #726
Weighted Value: 1
Text: none
Prerequisite: none
Course Description: This course introduces the student to the basic nutrition and daily
requirements of a teenager. Experiences are provided for planning and preparing foods which
will meet health needs. Use of equipment and utensils, proper service of meals, and the
development of responsible work habits will also be stressed.
FOODS II
Grades: 10-12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #728
Weighted Value: 1
Text: none
Prerequisite: Foods I with an average of 75%
Course Description: This course provides learning experiences in consumer buying and in the
preparation of cakes, frostings and the decoration of cakes, microwave cooking, appetizers,
desserts, a meat unit and a unit on foreign foods.
HERITAGE FOODS (not offered 2016-2017 SY) Grades: 10-12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #730
Weighted Value: 1
Text: none
Prerequisite: Minimum final average of 80% in Foods I or Foods II; or teacher recommendation
Course Description: Heritage Foods presents students with a “hands on” opportunity to take a
delicious journey through the history of our country while seeing America’s history in an entirely
new light. The course of study begins with foods of the Native Indians and the early American
colonists. Next, the journey follows the westward expansion, concluding with the cuisine of the
immigrants of the 20th century. Emphasis is placed on what historical events and influences the
settlers of this country had on creating our present day cuisine.
This course and is offered every other year.
41
FINE AND PERFORMING ARTS
INTRODUCTION
The Fine Arts curriculum is designed to meet the needs of all students. The arts provide
us with a tangible picture of a society's maturization--an evolutionary cycle from primitive culture
to high civilization. We measure the quality of a civilization by the art it produces. Music and Art
represent measurable advancements in the human creative spirit. Fine Arts courses
encompass both performance and non-performance areas. Ernest Boyer wrote in his book High
School that the Arts "are the means by which a civilization can be measured... they are an
essential part of the human experience... these skills are no longer just desirable. They are
essential if we are to survive together with civility and joy."
ART I
Grades: 9-12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #701
Weighted Value: 1
Text: none
Prerequisite: none
Course Description: Art I begins with a study of basic fundamentals of design and color. This
serves as a means to establish a common framework for the remainder of the year. Students
are then presented with various assignments to reinforce and develop what they have learned.
The degree of difficulty of each project will increase as the year progresses, and will afford the
student the opportunity to develop their own artistic style and interests in art. The first semester
is devoted to two-dimensional work in drawing, painting, pastels, and printmaking. The other
semester considers areas of three-dimensional design and crafts such as ceramics, basketry,
sculpture, weaving, and puppetry.
CONTEMPORARY CRAFTS
Grades: 10-12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #702
Weighted Value: 1
Text: none
Prerequisite: Art I
Course Description: Students will be introduced to the basic craft offerings, after which more
advanced techniques will be implemented. Areas of crafting that will be covered are pottery,
sculpture, basketry, furniture painting, textiles, puppetry, dolls and 2D design. Some materials
may need to be purchased by the student.
DRAWING & PAINTING I
Grades: 10-12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #703
Weighted Value: 1
Text: none
Prerequisite: Minimum final average of 83 in Art I; or teacher recommendation
Course Description: This course will focus primarily on acrylic painting and drawing with
various media. General use of materials and techniques will be covered during the course.
Students will explore traditional as well as experimental and expressive approaches to drawing
and painting with emphasis on specific techniques and effects. Students will have an
opportunity to develop drawings into paintings and gain insight to past and contemporary styles
of painting. This class is intended for those students that excelled during the first half of
Art I.
42
DRAWING & PAINTING II
Grades: 11-12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #704
Weighted Value: 1
Text: none
Prerequisite: Minimum final average of 83 in Art I, and Drawing & Painting I, or teacher
recommendation.
Course Description: Drawing and Painting II is a course being offered to all art students that
have successfully completed Drawing and Painting I, and wish to further develop their work in
two-dimensional art. Different topics will be covered during each marking period, and students
will be responsible for designing and executing works accordingly. Topics covered may include
nature, human form, still life, expressionism, abstract art, politics in art, and technology in art.
Different works from various movements in art history will be discussed and used as references
for each project. Students taking this course are expected to perform at an advanced level
artistically, and as a result, work completed in this course will be held to a higher standard. At
the end of this course students will be prepared to take Studio Art, and will have projects that
they can incorporate into a college art portfolio.
POTTERY
Grades: 10-12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #705
Weighted Value: 1
Text: none
Prerequisite: Art I
Course Description: "Pottery", which refers to fired clay objects, will be the focus of this
course. Hand-building, which includes coiling, pinching, slab building, molding or combinations
of these, are age old and traditional techniques of forming ceramics without a wheel. "Throwing"
is the forming of hollow shapes on a revolving wheel head. The use of numerous tools,
techniques such as embossing, engraving, trimming, glazing, and the use of the ceramic kiln are
all presented. Students will study examples of traditional and contemporary approaches to
pottery which will contribute to the development of their unique style.
This class is intended for those students who excelled during the second half of Art I, and
enjoy working with their hands to create three-dimensional forms.
STUDIO ART
Grades: 12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #707
Weighted Value: 1
Text: none
Prerequisite: Minimum final average of 80 in three years of high school Art; teacher
recommendation; successful completion and submission of summer assignment
Course Description: Studio Art consists of in-depth studies of Art History, Art criticism and Art
analysis with an emphasis on techniques of various media, (painting, drawing, sculpture &
pottery). For the aspiring Art major, Studio Art will assist in portfolio preparation for college
applications.
CONCERT CHOIR
Grades: 9-12
Credits: 2.5
Semester Course
Course #741
Weighted Value: 1
Text: none
Prerequisite: none
Course Description: Concert Choir is a mixed choral group which meets five half periods a
week. The group is open to all interested students of all levels who enjoy singing a variety of
music from classical to popular. It employs all types of singing including unison, three and four
part. The emphasis of Concert Choir is on performing; therefore, all concerts are a major part of
the program.
43
CHAMBER CHOIR
Grades: 9-12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #745
Weighted Value: 1
Text: none
Prerequisite: None
Course Description: Chamber Choir is a Treble choir offered for one full period yielding 5
credits to the female student who is serious about vocal music. Students have the opportunity to
learn more extensive repertoire as well as the time needed to improve individual voices. This
group will perform at, but not be limited to, all of the concerts at Butler High School.
"GOOD-AS-GOLD" CHOIR
Grades: 9-12
Credits: 2.5
Semester Course
Course #746
Weighted Value: 1
Text: none
Prerequisite: successful vocal audition
Course Description: Good-As-Gold is a select choral ensemble which is chosen by the choral
director through a vocal audition. Good-As-Gold meets one evening or one afternoon a week
and performs at various school functions and social events. It is a group designed for the more
experienced singer and, therefore, performs more challenging literature.
BAND
Grades: 9-12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #751
Weighted Value: 1
Text: none
Prerequisite: None
Course Description: Band is a full year course which meets every day for one full
period. It is understood that participation in the course requires performances outside the school
day. Expectations for this class increase with each grade level. Performances include but are
not limited to: December, March, May evening concerts, Memorial Day Parade, and graduation
in June.
MUSIC THEORY
Grades: 9-12
Credits: 5
Full-Year Course
Course #752
Weighted Value: 1
Text: none
Prerequisite: None
Course Description: Topics covered in this introductory music program are scales, key
structure, rhythm, note writing, sight singing, ear training, rhythmic and melodic dictation,
elementary chord structure, and some use of basic traditional harmonization.
Students will listen to various pieces from music history.
INSTRUMENTAL INSTRUCTION
Grades: 9-12
Credits: .5
Full-Year Course
Course #753
Weighted Value: 1
Text: none
Prerequisite: none
Course Description: Instrumental lessons on band instruments are available throughout the
school day. Expectations for this class increase with each grade level. Students are required to
achieve minimum standards for practice, attendance and achievement for their grade and level.
Requirements:
1. Record of Practice - minimum, 4 days, 20 minutes each with parent's signature.
2. 70% attainment of skills.
3. Weekly attendance at lesson.
44
PHYSICAL EDUCATION/HEALTH
INTRODUCTION
As a NJ state requirement, physical education is mandatory for each year of attendance in
high school. At Butler High School, students will experience a physical education program
consisting of three marking periods, earning 3.75 credits per year. The health component is a
one marking period course which students earn 1.25 credits yearly.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Physical Education at Butler High School emphasizes the importance of physical fitness
as well as team work, fair play and sportsmanship. Specific periods of time are scheduled to
explain and address the various components of fitness.
Team and individual sport activities are designed to develop cooperative learning
experiences through healthy competition and skill development.
HEALTH
One marking period per year is devoted to health education. The spectrum of health
education involves an individual’s understanding of the elements of physical health, mental and
emotional health as well as social health. The curriculum focuses on the development of
responsible, productive citizens through the context of our healthy choices.
GRADE 9 - REPRODUCTION AND THE LIFE CYCLE
Emphasis is given to the reproductive systems of the male and female. In understanding
that reproduction is an essential function of living organism, our focus is on all the elements
involved in ensuring healthy components of these systems. STD’s, alcohol, and drug use are
incorporated into this unit. Additional curricular emphasis is given to the life cycle from birth to
early childhood.
In addition, The Freshmen Experience has been implemented into the 9 th grade Physical
Education and Health classes one day a week. It emphasizes on a large variety of team
building, problem solving and trust activities as well as interpersonal relationships and personal
growth. The course is designed to encourage students to develop greater self-confidence while
gaining a sense of trust and commitment to their classmates.
GRADE 10 - DRIVER ED THEORY AND DEFENSIVE DRIVING
The grade 10 curriculum includes a comprehensive program of study designed to develop
knowledge of New Jersey motor vehicle laws as well as insuring that young drivers have a
sound background in techniques necessary for safe operation of motor vehicles.
GRADES 11 & 12 (Cycle1) - NUTRITION/BUILDING, HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS/STI’s
HIV/AIDS
This cycle deals with proper nutrition and its role in maintaining physical health. It will
provide the students with information which will assist them in making good food choices as they
relate to maintaining physical health. STD’s, alcohol and drug use are incorporated in this unit.
Also, this cycle will deal with strengthening relationships by exploring methods of dealing
with stressful situations and opening effective communication lines with family and peers.
GRADE 11 & 12 (CYCLE 2) - FIRST AID/SAFETY/FAMILY LIFE
This cycle will deal with measures to be taken when encountering various emergency
situations. In addition, it will identify health threats in the home and environment so as to avoid
health emergencies. Also covered in this cycle will be a focus on how the family impacts society.
45