The student will:
• Read a variety of short stories and novels.
• Answer essay questions demonstrating a grasp of the complexities of character and plot development.
• Demonstrate ability to apply rules of grammar usage and sentence structure with a demonstrated understanding of written and oral expression.
• Compose formal and informal written assignments reflecting ability to develop multi-paragraph compositions.
• Learn how to use the resources of the library.
• Participate in a variety of speaking, writing and thinking activities.
• Develop effective time management and study skills.
Eng51A/B: Accelerated English 9 (9) Credit: 2
Meets for 2 semesters
Faculty Signature required: Placement by 8th grade teacher, ITBS scores and parental input.
Accelerated English 9 is designed for the individual who has excelled in English and language arts and who wishes to be challenged in this subject area. The course includes units in literature, grammar, composition and library research, covering more and a greater variety of material than English 9. Emphasis will be placed on inquiry and higher order thinking skills.
The student will:
• Read and comprehend a variety of literary works.
• Define, explain and apply literary terms to readings.
• Improve writing skills in areas of description, narration, exposition and persuasion.
• Perform out-of-class research.
• Demonstrate knowledge and ability to apply rules of grammar usage and sentence structure.
• Perform on a scholarly level throughout the course.
• Develop critical thinking skills.
• Develop effective time management and study skills.
pg. 22
.Εng02A/B English 10 (10) Credit: 2
Faculty signature required: 9th grade English teacher
English 10 is designed to help students develop their language arts skills. Students are exposed to different literary works, composition, grammar and drama. Each of these units will be integrated within the course.
Vocabulary study will also be part of this course.
The student will:
• Read a variety of short stories, drama, and novels.
• Develop writing skills based on the topic of what has been read.
• Develop the use of literary analysis.
• Compose formal and informal written assignments reflecting ability to develop multi-paragraph compositions.
• Develop the use of the library resource materials.
• Participate in a variety of speaking, reading and thinking activities.
Eng52A/B Accelerated English 10 (10) Credit: 2
Meets for 2 semesters
Faculty signature required: 9th grade English teacher
Accelerated English 10 is designed for the student who has excelled in English as a ninth grader and who has the desire to be challenged. A variety of literary genre will be taught as well as additional writing skills.
The Student will:
• Read and comprehend works of major writers.
• Write extensively in regard to reading assignments and by using different types such as exposition, persuasion, analysis, etc.
• Perform research and develop information into a research paper.
• Demonstrate the ability to apply rules of grammar usage and sentence structure in all forms of communication.
• Improve critical thinking skills.
• Perform on a scholarly level throughout the course.
• Participate in class discussion.
pg. 23
Eng03/Eng13 English 11 Composition/Literature (11) Credit: 2
Meets for 2 semesters
Faculty signature required: 10th grade English teacher
English 11 is designed to expose the student to a variety of American authors and to develop writing skills.
The course is divided into two semesters. One semester is a study of American novels, short stories, poetry, Shakespearian drama, as well as writing literary analysis of such work. The other semester covers the development of writing skills, including personal and academic writing, using a variety of audiences and purposes.
The student will:
• Read several types of American Literature.
• Master the knowledge of literary analysis.
• Develop writing and research skills through the use of the media center and written assignments.
• Participate in a variety of speaking, reading and thinking activities.
Eng53A/B Advanced Placement English Language And Composition (11) Credit: 2
Meets for 2 semesters
Faculty signature required: 10th grade English teacher
Advanced Placement English Language and Composition is a college-level course which includes both the reading and analysis of various prose and the study of process writing. Through such study and practice, students gain an understanding of the principals of effective writing and become effective writers themselves. The organized study of the structure of sentences, paragraphs and essay patterns introduces students to the semantics, structural and rhetorical resources of the language. Students enrolled in Advanced Placement English have the option to take the College Board Advanced Placement Exam in the spring which may qualify them for college credit. Enrollment is limited to this course (approximately15 - 20 students per section). In preparation for this course, students may be given a summer reading list to work on for the fall semester. It is expected that these readings and a writing journal are to be completed over the summer by the student.
The student will:
• Read a variety of literature as an impetus to their writing.
• Write several compositions each semester as well as one longer term paper.
• Read and participate in peer evaluation.
• Read all assigned essays.
• Write assigned journal entries.
pg. 24
Eng74A/B Surveys In Literature and Composition (12) Credit: 2
Meets for 2 semesters
Faculty signature required: 11th grade English teacher
Upon entering twelfth grade, students have read and discussed literary classics across the major genres and have studied World Literature and American Literature. Surveys focuses on European Literature from the Middle Ages to the present. Units are taught chronologically so that students can experience the transformation of western society into what it is today.
The student will:
• Study prominent themes from each time period, and see how they influenced each other.
• Brush up on literary terms and forms through immersion in the poetry of Shakespeare, Milton, Blake, Wordsworth, Byron and others.
• By the end of the year be able to recite a poem by memory, and write a research paper.
• Through their discussions and essays, students will relate works to historical circumstances, trace symbols through a work or works, and consider moral/philosophical questions.
• Additional units will prepare the students to enter the workforce by completing a resume, scholarships, and job applications.
Eng04/14 College Prep Composition/Literature (12) Credit: 2
Meets for 2 semesters
Faculty signature required: 11th grade English teacher
College Prep English is designed to prepare the high school senior who is in the top fifty percent of his/her class for college English assignments. A student with plans of attending a two or four year college and with the ability to study college preparatory material would be appropriately placed by registering for this course. Emphasis will be on the study of literature and the development of writing skills. Areas covered in literature may include Italian, British and French authors. Areas covered in the development of writing skills include the narrative, description, informed opinion (argumentation), analysis and research through process writing.
The student will:
• Master knowledge of novels, short stories, essays, and the use of the writing process.
• Associate similarities of literary work to the paralleled time in history and location.
• Examine the authors style of writing.
• Critically analyze the literary works that are studied through analysis, persuasion, comparison/contrast and expository essays and research as it relates to the topics being discussed.
pg. 25
Eng54A/B Advanced Placement English Literature and Composition (12) Credit: 2
Meets for 2 semesters
Faculty signature required: 11th grade English teacher
Advanced Placement English Literature and Composition is a college-level English class for students distinguished by a superior aptitude for interpreting literature and for writing about and discussing perceptions of meaning, structure, and language. Students enrolled in Advanced Placement English have the option to take the College Board Advanced Placement Exam in the spring which may qualify them for college credit. Enrollment is limited to this course (approximately 15 - 20 students per section). In preparation for this course, students may be given a summer reading list to work on for the fall semester. These readings and a writing journal are to be completed over the summer by the student.
The student will:
• Analyze and synthesize literature from a variety of genres through written critical analysis.
• Utilize the skills of paraphrasing and condensing as they relate to the study of literature
• Increase background knowledge as it relates to a variety of authors and their works.
• Apply the relevance of literature to when it was written as well as how it relates to the reader today.
• Expand vocabulary through the technical use of literary analysis.
• Review a series of critical essays dealing with the primary works.
Eng07 Creative Writing (9, 10, 11, 12) Credit: 1
Meets for 1 semester
Creative Writing is a course which allows the student to develop talents and abilities in the world of writing. The instructor will assist student in devising an individual curriculum plan, using short story, personal essay, drama, or a combination of these.
Eng08 Journalism I (10, 11, 12) Credit: 1
Meets for one semester
Faculty signature required: last English course teacher Photography fee: $10.00
Journalism I is designed for students interested in the field of print mass media. This course will cover the various facets of publishing both newspaper and yearbook. Related units include freedoms and responsibilities of publications, layout, advertising and effective writing. A unit on photojournalism is also available. Access to a 35mm camera is helpful.
The student will:
• Improve language arts skills.
• Learn skills useable in Yearbook and Newspaper Journalism.
• Be encouraged to examine a career in Journalism.
• Be able to conduct a professional interview.
• Learn the background of the history and the responsibility of the press in America.
pg. 26
Eng28A/B Newspaper (11, 12) . Credit: 2
Meets for 2 semesters
Prerequisite Course: Journalism I - Students must apply for enrollment in Newspaper, and must be accepted into the class by the newspaper advisor.
Newspaper is designed to serve as an actual laboratory where students can utilize their journalistic skills by publishing the school paper, The Compass. The paper is published every two weeks. The production program utilizes computer word processing technology and printing processes.
The student will:
• Improve language arts skills through journalistic writing.
• Improve in ability to work successfully for and with a group.
• Become acquainted with newspaper journalism as a career choice.
• Plan the newspaper and meet story deadlines.
• Conduct interviews.
• Have other responsibilities if an editor.
Eng38A/B Yearbook (11, 12) Credit: 2
Meets for 2 semesters
Prerequisite: Journalism I - Students must apply for enrollment in Yearbook and must be accepted into the class by the yearbook advisor.
Yearbook will provide students with different elements of design and principles for effective yearbook construction. This will culminate in the production of the school yearbook.
The student will:
• Produce the school yearbook to include writing, editing, compiling and financing
• Develop creative designs.
• Apply photographic skills.
• Improve journalistic skills.
• Become adept in word processing skills.
• Develop financial management skills.
• Execute ad and yearbook sales.
• Learn responsibility of meeting deadlines.
• Develop leadership skills.
• Work as a unit to operate a self-supporting operation.
Spch01 Speech (10, 11, 12) Credit: 1
Meets for one semester
Speech is a required course for graduation. It is designed to help students achieve a style of speaking which is natural, correct and effective so as to become aware of the communication process.
The student will:
• Prepare and present speeches of varying lengths and types.
• Participate in class projects and discussions.
• Take unit exams.
pg. 27 Mathematics
Welcome to the department of Mathematics. The courses that you choose are very important for your future plans and opportunities. Many colleges have increased requirements in math that require students to take non-credit remedial courses if their respective requirements are not met in high school. Keep this in mind if you plan on attending one of these universities. All students planning on going to college should take a minimum of:
Algebra, Geometry and Algebra II.
Freshmen have three choices: Accelerated Algebra I, Algebra I and Pre-Algebra. All meet for a full year and provide two credits each, if passed.
Math Placement is based on:
• Your ITBS scores.
• 8th grade math teacher recommendation.
• Performance in math class during grade school.
• Math placement test taken in the spring of 8th grade.
Notes: * Disciplinary problems should not enter into your choice.
** Don’t be afraid to take a course because it is difficult for you. We are here to help you learn.
*** Your high school education will be only as good as the amount of work you put into it.
Sequence Chart
Remedial Curriculum: Pre-Algebra Algebra I Geometry General Curriculum: Algebra I Geometry Algebra II
College Preparatory: Algebra I Geometry Algebra II Modern Analysis
Accelerated Curriculum: Acc. Alg I Acc. Geo Acc. Alg II Acc. Pre-Calc AP Calculus
pg. 28
Math41A/B Pre-Algebra Credit: 2
Meets for 2 semesters
Faculty signature required: 8th grade math instructor
Pre-Algebra is designed for the student in need of more preparation for Algebra I. The course aims to encourage the student to continue in mathematics and be successful. Students are expected to have and use a scientific calculator.
The student will:
• Increase understanding of computational skills.
• Develop greater proficiency in using computational skills.
• Develop problem solving skills/strategies.
• Acquire new computational skills.
• Conscientiously complete all daily assignments.
• Ask questions and participate in class discussions.
• Seek additional help outside of class.
• Learn to communicate mathematically.
• Develop a proficiency in the use of a scientific and/or graphing calculator.
• Develop a foundation of algebraic skills.
Math51A/B Accelerated Algebra I (8, 9) Credit: 2
Meets for 2 semesters
Faculty signature needed: 8th grade math instructor
Accelerated Algebra I includes the study of variables, number properties, algebraic expressions and equations, verbal problems and selected topics from Algebra II including exponential functions. Students are expected to have and use a scientific calculator.
The student will:
• Develop an understanding of the basic structure of algebra.
• Analyze problems and solve them.
• Recognize and apply algebraic properties.
• Establish a solid foundation for further study in mathematics.
• Complete special project and/or paper each semester.
pg. 29
Math01A/B Algebra I (9, 10, 11, 12) Credit: 2
Meets for 2 semesters
Faculty signature needed: 8th grade math instructor or most recent math instructor
Algebra I enables the student to experience mathematics in a variety of ways: patterns, working with formulas, graphing ideas, working with scientific calculators. Algebra is different from arithmetic; sometimes it may be harder, but often it is easier because there is less computation. This course is required for any student who plans to attend college. Students are expected to have and use a scientific calculator.
The student will:
• Experience mathematics as a cumulative and unified subject which can enable one to become a good problem solver in real life situations.
• Reinforce arithmetic skills.
• Increase the power of abstract thinking.
• Develop problem solving strategies.
• Develop a positive attitude toward problem solving.
• Develop a proficiency in the use of a scientific calculator.
Math02A/B Geometry (9, 10, 11, 12) Credit: 2
Meets for 2 semesters Prerequisite: Algebra I
Faculty signature required: most recent math instructor
Geometry integrates algebraic concepts into the development of basic methods of plane, coordinate and special geometry. Clarity of thinking in a logical manner is stress through inductive and deductive reasoning. The importance of precision and clarity of language is emphasized in both mathematical and non-mathematical situations.
The student will:
• Develop procedures of inductive and deductive reasoning.
• Learn precise expression.
• Visualize geometric figures in two and three dimensions.
• Develop fundamental concepts of geometry and mathematical proof.
• Develop creative thinking.
• Apply geometric concepts to practical problems.
• Further develop problem solving skills.
pg. 30
Math52A/B Accelerated Geometry (9, 10, 11, 12) Credit: 2
Meets for 2 semesters
Prerequisite: Algebra 1 or Accelerated Algebra I or department approval Faculty signature required: most recent math instructor or department chair
Accelerated Geometry is the second course of the accelerated mathematics sequence. A background in algebra is necessary along with a very high interest in math and science. The format of the course is based upon a rigorous approach to complex algebraic concepts. The course will include a review of Algebra I, selected topics from algebra II, geometry, logic and algebraic proof.
The student will:
• Review Algebra I.
• Develop and understand the basic structure of valid and invalid logic.
• Recognize and apply the logical thought process to the content of plane geometry.
• Explore some of the more abstract areas of geometry.
• Establish a solid foundation for further study in mathematics.
• Complete special projects.
Math21A/B Algebra II (10, 11, 12) Credit: 2
Meets for 2 semesters
Prerequisite: Algebra and Geometry
Faculty signature required: most recent math instructor or department chair
Algebra II provides a review of basic algebra and a deeper understanding of algebraic systems. It includes geometry integrated with the algebra. Reading and problem solving are emphasized throughout. Students are expected to have and use a scientific calculator (a graphing calculator is recommended). This course is required for any student who plans to attend college.
The student will:
• Understand and be able to apply basic algebraic concepts.
• Acquire necessary background for the study of advanced mathematics.
• Be able to use sound inductive and deductive reasoning skills to solve problems.
• Develop proficiency in the use of scientific and graphing calculators.
pg. 31
Math03A/B Modern Analysis (11, 12) Credit: 2
Meets for 2 semesters
Prerequisite: Algebra II or Accelerated Algebra II
Faculty signature required: most recent math instructor or department chair
Modern Analysis is strongly recommended for all college bound students. It integrates ideas of functions statistics, and trigonometry.
The student will:
• Explore statistics by analyzing data.
• Learn to use statistic programs.
• Study the basic concepts of probability.
• Develop an understanding of sequence and series, both finite and infinite.
• Analyze the trigonometric functions in detail.
• Work with a variety of functions to include exponential, logarithmic, higher degree polynomial, and circular.
• Increase proficiency in the use of scientific and graphing calculators.
Math61A/B Accelerated Algebra II (11, 12) Credit: 2
Meets for 2 semesters
Prerequisite: Accelerated Geometry or department approval
Faculty signature required: most recent math instructor or department chair
Accelerated Algebra II is a continuation of Accelerated Geometry. It reviews algebra skills with emphasis on advanced algebra problems. Analytic geometry, coordinate geometry, functions, graphing techniques,
determinants and matrices are included in the topics in this course. Students are expected to have a scientific calculator.
The student will:
• Develop understanding of real number system and its properties and expand it to the complex numbers.
• Develop understanding of linear functions and those of higher degree.
• Acquire ability to work with radicals, matrices, determinants and logarithms.
• Complete special project and/or paper.
• Expand use of direct and indirect proof.
pg. 32
Math 54A/B Accelerated Pre-Calculus (11, 12) Credit: 2
Meets for 2 semesters
Prerequisite: Accelerated Algebra II
Faculty signature required: most recent math instructor or department chair
Accelerated Pre-Calculus challenges even the most gifted math student with a higher level of
mathematical skills and problem solving. All previous Math will be reviewed and reinforced. Functions and their graphs (including higher degree polynomials, rational functions, exponential and logarithmic functions and
trigonometric functions), complex numbers, sequences and series, and analysis will be studied in depth and calculus will be introduced and applied. A graphing calculator (TI83+ or TI86) is required for this course.
The student will:
• Review all previous mathematics experiences and strengthen any weaknesses.
• Discover the logical structure of mathematics.
• Perceive the unity of mathematics.
• Expand and reinforce ones mathematics vocabulary.
• Acquire facility in applying mathematics vocabulary.
• Develop an appreciation of the breadth and depth of applications in mathematics.
• Be introduced to many of the high areas of study in different fields of mathematics including
• Be introduced to many of the high areas of study in different fields of mathematics including