High School Course Outlines
- Mathematics
- Language Arts
- Social Studies
- Science
- World Languages
- Computer Education
- Fine Arts
- Physical Education
- Other
Download the Course Selection Sheets (PDF)
Mathematics
Algebra 1: Algebra I is an introductory course in the fundamentals of algebra and word problem solving. Skill building and methodology are stressed throughout the year. The course includes the study of first and second degree equations, algebraic fractions, radicals, factoring, and graphing functions.
NOTE: A scientific calculator is required
Prerequisite: Pre-Algebra or equivalent.
Geometry: This course is designed to prepare students to understand the importance of geometry in the world around us and to study the properties and relationships among lines, angles, and shapes which exist in two-dimensional and three dimensional spaces. We will study proofs (inductive and deductive) and there will be some explorations in non-Euclidean Geometry and integration of algebra and analytic geometry. Student will study how to find perimeter, area, surface area and volumes.
NOTE: A scientific calculator is required for this course.
Prerequisite: Algebra 1 or equivalent.
Algebra 2: Is a college-preparatory course that focuses the fundamental concepts of linear and quadratic functions and then studies polynomials in general. Other types of functions will be studied as well: exponential and logarithmic, radical and rational. Functions will be studied from an algebraic, numerical and graphical approach.
NOTE: A graphing calculator is required for this course (TI 84 or TI 84 plus).
Prerequisite: Algebra 1 or equivalent; geometry highly recommended.
Pre-Calculus: This is the culminating third-year course in algebra in preparation for calculus and other advanced math courses. All types of functions are studied at a deeper level than in previous courses including the geometric functions. Topics such as conic sections, series and sequences, and probability are also explored.
NOTE: A graphing calculator is necessary for this course (TI 84 or TI 84 plus)..
Prerequisite: Algebra 2 or equivalent.
AP Calculus AB: This one-year course prepares students for the AP Exam in Calculus AB. It is an introductory course in the study of limits, continuity, differential and integral calculus. Areas of study include related rates, maximization and minimization problems, volumes areas under a curve, solids of revolution, particle motion and centroid. Additional information about this and all AP courses can be found at the College Board Website.
NOTE: A graphing calculator is necessary for this course (TI 84 or TI 84 plus).
Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus or equivalent; "C" or better in pre-requisite course recommended.
AP Statistics: The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. Students are exposed to four broad conceptual themes: Exploring Data: Describing patterns and departures from patterns, Sampling and Experimentation: Planning and conducting a study, Anticipating Patterns: Exploring random phenomena using probability and simulation, Statistical Inference: Estimating population parameters and testing hypotheses. Additional information about this and all AP courses can be found at the College Board Website.
NOTE: A graphing calculator is necessary for this course (TI 84 or TI 84 plus).
Prerequisite: Algebra II or equivalent; "C" or better in pre-requisite course recommended.
Discrete Math: Discrete Math is taught to give students majoring in liberal arts, social sciences, education, business, and other nonscientific areas an understanding and appreciation of the many applications of mathematics. The material is used in a variety of settings, and emphasizes realistic and interesting applications.
Prerequisite: Algebra I and Geometry or equivalent
Language Arts
English 9: Freshman English concentrates on the introduction of the major literary genres. Students will learn to read each genre with comprehension and develop the ability to analyze and interpret literature. Effective communication skills will be taught (both oral and written). Grammar and vocabulary are taught through literature and daily usage throughout the year. Descriptive, point of view, narrative and poetic writing styles will be explored.
English 10: World literature 10 seeks to expose students to geographic breadth and historical depth of world imaginative literature. These works may include, but are not limited to, English, American, Middle Eastern, Latin American, Russian, Eastern and Western European, and ancient Greek texts. Students will critique these texts using standard literary tropes, with a particular emphasis on thoughtful, coherent, and critical argument.
English 11: This is a study of American literature from its beginning to the contemporary scene. Major American authors, especially novelists, will be studied in relationship to how their works reflect American history and embody American cultural value. Writing projects will develop both formal and informal styles.
English 12: This course is a thematic one whose focus varies every few years. Themes that have been discussed include: the villain in literature, the individual and society, our changing world. Students read, discuss, and analyze a variety of works dealing with a particular theme. How the theme is represented in our modern society is a major focus. In addition to critical reading, students also write cogent prose in a variety of genre.
AP English Language and Composition: Grade 11- The focus of this course is the analysis of a writer's purpose and how language contributes to that purpose. Students read a variety of non fiction text and write cogent responses using the resources of language. In addition, the course helps prepare students to take the AP Language and Composition exam.
Prerequisite: minimum of 11th Grade standing
AP English Literature & Composition: Grade 12 - This course emphasizes the development of skills in critical reading of imaginative and discursive literature and in writing about literature and related ideas. It is for students who are capable of doing college-level work in English while still in high school and who are willing to devote the energy necessary to keep up with the work load and to contribute meaningfully to class discussion.
Prerequisite: 12th Grade standing
Writing 9: Writing 9 seeks to bring students quickly up to speed on high school composition. Although the course covers a variety writing genres, its particular emphasis is the essay, emphasizing critical thought, presentation (format), and use of language. Additionally, so as to improve student writing, the course covers vocabulary and foundational formal grammar. Sadlier Oxford's Vocabulary - level E Workshop, is the adopted high school program for Writing 9.
Writing 10: Research Writing: Writing 10 class builds upon the skills and topics introduced in Writing 9. The effective use of syntax, diction, and conventions will be incorporated into the study of essay, creative and research writing. The primary focus is on the research process: locating and evaluating sources, synthesizing and analyzing information, supporting a thesis, citing sources. Oral and multimedia presentations provide students with ample practice in presenting information. The 6 + 1 Traits writing program is the instructional and evaluative tool.
For more information on the Traits go to: www.nwrel.org/assessment, click on "6 + 1 Traits," then click on "About."
Writing 11: This is a college preparatory composition course. Most fundamentally, it seeks to give students advanced skills in composition, with an eye on essay writing for university. In addition, students will compose some imaginative works, study SAT-quality vocabulary, and receive comprehensive and advanced instruction in formal English grammar. Students will practice the writing of on-demand essays that simulate SAT and ACT writing exams. Sadlier Oxford's Vocabulary level G Workshop, is the adopted high school program.
Writing 12: Preparation for College: This course focuses on college-level writing skills through college application essays, academic/extracurricular resumes, and professional communication (such as email & letters). The second semester is devoted to various forms of research writing, creative writing, technical writing for presentations, and essay writing formats such as cause-effect, argumentative, and textual analysis. Students written work may be assessed through culminating writing projects or genre-specific pieces and are evaluated using the 6+1 Writing Traits rubric. The emphasis on grammar is for mastery and style.
Drama: (1 semester, 1/2 credit) This is a participation course which examines various principles, techniques and aspects of the theatre arts. Emphasis will be on acting, however, aspects of theatre history and technical theatre will also be explored. This is a content area course as well as a participation course. Students will be expected to informally and formally participate in ensembles, workshop performances and in the final class production.
Prerequisite: None
Speech & Debate: (1 semester, 1/2 credit) - The goal of this course is to improve the student's ability to speak publicly for a variety of audiences and purposes. The first quarter deals with effective use of oral language as it is expressed in a variety of formal and informal speech modes. Selecting a topic, determining your purpose, analyzing your audience, organizing materials, wording your speech and delivering it will be the foundation upon which the second quarter of debate will be built. An intensive, full blown debate using the need/case plan will be the end goal of the semester. The fundamentals of argument, the methods of research, the development of team strategies and discussion of international social, economic and cultural problems will all be essential to learning the art of debate. Short debates and creative projects which teach discussion techniques and questioning strategies will be included.
Prerequisite: None
Social Studies
Ancient World History: This is a year long course designed to develop understanding of the evolutionary global processes and contacts that arose between different types of human societies between 400 and 1750. The course emphasizes factual knowledge in combination with appropriate analytical skills. Students look at change and continuity across time from pre-history to the time period covered by the course
Prerequisite: None
Modern World History: This is a year long course designed to develop the understanding of evolutionary global processes and contacts that arose between different types of human societies from 1750 to the present. The course emphasizes factual knowledge in combination with appropriate analytical skills. Students look at change and continuity during the time period. Emphasis is on interaction on a global scale as opposed to the traditional Eurocentric approach.
Prerequisite: Ancient World History or equivalent
Modern US History: This year long chronological survey of United States History focuses on the period from 1867 through the present day. Students will examine the political, social, economic, cultural, geographic, and diplomatic aspects of the United States as it grew from an isolated country to its modern-day status in the world.
Prerequisite: minimum of 11th grade standing
AP World History: The AP program in World History is designed as a rigorous, college-level course to develop a greater understanding of the evolution of global processes and contacts in different types of human societies. Students' understanding is advanced though a combination of selective factual knowledge and appropriate analytical skills. The course highlights the nature of changes in global frameworks and their causes and consequences, as well as comparisons among major societies. Additionally, students are prepared to take the AP Exam in World History in May.
Prerequisite: Ancient World History or minimum of 10th grade standing
AP United States History: The AP program in United States History is designed as a rigorous, college-level course to provide students with the analytical skills and factual knowledge necessary to deal critically with the problems and materials in U.S. History. 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. As well, the course helps students prepare for the AP U.S. History Exam offered in May.
Prerequisite: minimum of 11th grade standing
AP Psychology: Advanced Placement in Psychology is a one-year course. It is held for 90 minutes per class session. It introduces students to a variety of learning experiences aimed at a systematic and scientific study of human and animal mental processes and behaviors. Equivalent to an introductory college course in Psychology, the course will be conducted to explore and develop student critical thinking skills and to prepare for the AP Psychology examinations given toward the end of the school year. The most important objective however, is for student to apply their learning and understanding of psychological principles and the acquired skills to enhance the quality of their own lives, in particular, and to ultimately contribute more broadly and positively to that of the world community, in general.
Prerequisite: minimum of 11th grade standing
AP Macroeconomics: Macro Economics is a two semester course designed to replicate the introductory macroeconomics course taught in a university setting. Primary analysis is based on the methods by which economic decision-makers affect the economy as a whole in terms of employment, price stability, and economic growth. Fiscal and monetary policies used to promote full employment, price stability, and economic growth are examined from the Classical Keynesian and Monetarists viewpoint. Issues pertinent to international trade and the stability of the international monetary system are also analyzed in regards to their effect on national economies.
Prerequisite: Algebra II and minimum of 11th grade standing
Economics*: (One semester, 1/2 credit) This course focuses on the foundational ideas of economics. What is economics, how are decisions made and how do markets work. In addition to economic fundamentals, special attention will be given to the stock market. Basic questions like what is the stock market and how does it work will be addressed. A stock market simulation will be a large component of the course.
Prerequisite: minimum of 11th grade standing
International Relations*: (One semester, 1/2 credit) This course focuses on relationships among nations through the study of global issues. Special emphasis is places on the Middle East and the Arab/Israeli conflict.
Prerequisite: minimum of 11th grade standing
Science
Integrated Physical Science: This course is a full year course which covers chemistry and physics at an introductory level. Chemistry topics covered include atomic theory, atomic models, periodic table, formulas and nomenclature for molecular and ionic compounds. Mass to mole conversions and acid base reactions will also be covered. In Physics, topics include one dimensional kinematics, and Newton's laws of motion and conservation of energy and momentum.
Prerequisite: None
Biology: This is a full year course covering the basics of molecular and cell biology. During the first semester the topics covered will include cells, energy, cell reproduction and biochemistry - which includes organic compounds and enzymes. The second semester will include genetics evolution, ecosystems, the fragile earth, and diversity of life. The themes of cell structure and function, stability and homeostasis, heredity, evolution, interdependence and matter, energy, and organization will serve as unifying concepts in biology.
Prerequisite: Physical Science or equivalent
Chemistry: A yearlong study of chemistry using experiments to introduce principles, and class discussion to clarify concepts. Students will investigate the atomic structure and chemical bonding, principles of chemical reactions, stroichiometry and chemical kinetics. The emphasis is on laboratory investigation, lectures and problem solving
Prerequisite: Algebra I and a Biology course.
Physics: The purpose of this course is to give students a thorough understanding of the basic concepts of physics and by means of many interesting applications, to prepare them to use physics in their own lives and their professions. Topics that will be covered include kinematics, dynamics, momentum and energy, electricity and magnetism, electromagnetic waves, light and relativity.
Prerequisite: Algebra II or concurrent enrollment
Anatomy and Physiology*: (One semester, 1/2 credit) This is a semester course that surveys the main systems of the body. Typically, students will have already taken or are concurrently taking Biology. This course complements AP Biology and offers some background for student considering this course. The major focus will be on skin, muscles/skeletal system, the nervous system, digestion and reproduction. Within the context of the course, there will be additional discussions on the impact that diseases, disorders and malfunctions have on human beings as well as self-inflicted changes to our bodies.
Prerequisite: None
Diseases*: (One semester, 1/2 credit) This is a semester course that surveys the main fields of infectious diseases. Typically, students will have already taken or are concurrently taking Biology. This course will examine the prevalent causes of diseases. The major focus will be on viral, bacterial, parasitic and fungal pathogens. Within the context of the course, there will be additional discussions on the impact that disease has on society and the economy.
Prerequisite: None
Environmental Science: This course focuses on the environmental issues that we face today. Major concepts, problems, and possible solutions are presented, creating the opportunity to explore these issues and formulate opinions. Prerequisite: Environmental Science can be taken by any student who has successfully completed Physical Science and Biology.
Prerequisite: Physical Science and Biology
AP Biology: This course is designed to be the equivalent of a college introductory biology course usually taken by biology majors during their first year. AP Biology will include those topics regularly covered in a college biology course for majors. The three major topic areas of AP Biology include Molecules and Cells, Heredity and Evolution, and Organisms and Populations. The college course differs significantly from the usual first high school course in biology with respect to the kind of textbook used, the range and depth of topics covered, the kind of laboratory work done by students, and the time and effort required of students. It aims to provide students with the conceptual framework, factual knowledge, and analytical skills necessary to deal critically with the rapidly changing science of biology.
Prerequisites: Biology and Chemistry (or concurrent enrolment).
AP Chemistry: (offered in alternate years with AP Physics - offered in 10-11) This course is the equivalent of the general chemistry course usually taken by chemistry majors in their first year of college. For some students, AP Chemistry will enable them to undertake, as freshmen, second year work in the chemistry sequence at their university or to register in courses in other fields where general chemistry is a prerequisite. Students will attain an in-depth understanding of fundamentals and competence in problems solving. The course will contribute to the development of the students' abilities to think clearly and to express ideas orally and in writing with clarity and logic.
Prerequisites: High School Chemistry recommended.
AP Physics: (offered in alternate years with AP Chemistry - not offered in 10-11) Advanced Placement Physics B is a rigorous college level physics course designed for students planning on higher studies in science of engineering. The first semester covers Newtonian mechanics; as well as conservation of energy, and momentum, simple harmonic motion, and gravitation, as well as waves, and sound and light. The second semester includes topics such as heat, thermodynamics, electrostatics, electric circuits, electromagnetic, and finally nuclear physics.
- not offered in the 10-11 school year
Prerequisites: Pre-Calculus or concurrent; Physics highly recommended.
World Languages
Note: Students new to ACS may be administered a World Language Placement test to ensure students are placed in the appropriate level.
Modern Standard Arabic
The Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) Program at ACS aims to develop the learner's communication skills in Standard Arabic. MSA curriculum is standard-based and adopted from: 1. The Modern Standard Arabic Program at ACS aims at developing the learner's skills in reading, writing, speaking and listening. The curriculum is standard based and is adopted and adapted from:
- ACS English Language Arts Standards and Benchmarks (AERO Standards)
- The Jordanian National Curriculum
- Arabic Standards Developed by Qatar Supreme Council of Education
MSA1: Emphasis will be on comprehension, improving reading and writing skills and an in-depth review and application of previous grammar.
MSA 2: Emphasis will be on developing writing skills and gaining an insight into Arabic Literature modeling different ages beginning with the Jahiliyah and ending with modern times.
MSA 3: This is a course in Arabic literature and poetry appreciation. Students will be involved in studying a brief history of Arabic literature, discussing characteristics of each through the different ages beginning with the Jahiliyeh era through the Omayyad, Abbasid and into modern times.
Arabic as a Foreign Language
AFL 1: Students are introduced to the basic structure of the Arabic language within cultural contexts as they begin to understand and speak Arabic through guided practices in dynamic, real-world situations. They also begin to read and write in Arabic (Simple texts) and discover connections with other subjects (geography/politics, fine arts, and math/science). They will be trained to survey Arabic-speaking cultures and their social practices (holidays, music, food, popular media); explore the unique and interesting perspectives, practices, and products of the cultures and develop language-learning strategies to maintain a life-long interest in world languages and multiple cultures at home and around the world.
AFL 2: Students broaden their foundation of the Arabic language within cultural contexts as they improve understanding and speaking of the Arabic through guided practice in dynamic, real-world situations. They continue to read and write in Arabic (simple short stories, letters, magazines, or other real-life texts) by expanding knowledge of Arabic vocabulary and structures. They also discover connections with other subjects (geography/politics, fine arts, and math/science) and examine Arabic-speaking cultures and their social practices (music, food, popular media) and connections between language and Arabic-speaking cultures. Special emphasis will be on exploring the unique and interesting perspectives, practices, and products of the culture and developing awareness of different worldviews. Students will be trained to expand language-learning strategies to maintain a life-long interest in world languages and multiple cultures at home and around the world.
AFL 3: Students continue to develop proficiency in Arabic Language and deepen their understanding of Arabic-speaking cultures as they advance listening and speaking skills through conversation on familiar, real-world topics using knowledge of the language to make connections with other subjects (geography/politics, fine arts, and math/science). As they continue to read and write in Arabic (short stories, letters, magazines, or other real-life texts) they will expand knowledge of Arabic vocabulary and structures. Students will examine Arabic-speaking cultures and their social practices (music, food, popular media) and connections between language and Arabic-speaking cultures. They will explore the unique and interesting perspectives, practices, and products of the culture and develop awareness of different worldviews; establish connections with Arabic-speaking cultures through the use of technology, media, and native-language sources. A life-long interest in world languages and multiple cultures at home and around the world will be maintained through expanding language-learning strategies.
French:
French I: Basic grammar and vocabulary are introduced through dialogues, conversation, and cassettes. This course emphasizes the acquisition of listening and speaking skills through situations requiring simple and functional grammar and vocabulary. Students will also develop writing and reading skills.
French II: The emphasis in French II will be on further practice in developing oral and written proficiency. The study of more complex structures is accompanied by an increased emphasis on the skills of, reading, and writing. Students are involved daily in conversation in French.
Prerequisite: French I or French C
French III: Conversational and writing competency are stressed in third-year French. The course emphasizes grammar, conversation, reading and writing. Essays on a regular basis will develop written skills. Students will read full length paperback books throughout the year. More advanced grammar and vocabulary will be studied through dialogues, songs, poems, current events and short stories. Students will strengthen oral skills by giving oral presentations. Class is conducted in French.
Prerequisite: French II
French IV: A complete review of all basic grammar and verb tenses is given in this course, as well as the study of idiomatic expressions. The main objective of French IV is to help students formulate their own ideas, both orally and in writing. Oral proficiency will be developed through the introduction of contemporary French Civilization. Students will give oral presentations to strengthen their skills. The reading and discussion of current events and literature will support the acquisition of advanced grammar and vocabulary. Essays and textual analysis develop written skills. Class is conducted in French.
Prerequisite: French III
AP French: Students who enroll in AP French Language should already have a good command of French grammar and vocabulary and have competence in listening, reading, speaking, and writing. Although these qualifications may be attained in a variety of ways, it is assumed that most students will be in the final stages of their secondary school training and will have had substantial course work in the language. The course will emphasize the use of language for active communication and help students develop the following: 1. The ability to understand spoken French in various contexts; 2. A French vocabulary sufficiently ample for reading newspaper and magazine articles; literary texts, and other non-technical writings without dependence on a dictionary; 3. The ability to express themselves coherently, resourcefully, and with reasonable fluency and accuracy in both written and spoken French. Students will be required to take the French language AP exam.
Prerequisite: French IV or in 12th Grade a strong French III
Spanish
Spanish I: The course introduces the Spanish language to students with no previous Spanish language background. The students will start to learn basic grammar and vocabulary through conversation, short stories, short essays, games, and songs. Emphasis is on developing skills for listening, reading, and writing. Throughout the course, the students are introduced to the rich culture and tradition of the Spanish-speaking world. The class will be conducted both in Spanish and English.
Spanish II: The course targets students who have taken high school level Spanish I. Students will review and reinforce the grammar rules introduced and learned in Spanish I. They will improve their ability for self-expression through daily conversation, listening to tapes, reading stories, and writing essays. They will further appreciate the Spanish culture and tradition by doing research projects on them. The class will be conducted as much as possible in Spanish and in combination with English only when needed.
Prerequisite: Spanish I or Spanish C
Spanish III: This course targets students who have completed high school levels Spanish I and Spanish II. Students will review and further reinforce the grammar rules introduced and learned in levels Spanish I and Spanish II, as well as improve their communication skills through daily conversation. They will be exposed to a lot of Spanish language reading materials to continue to enrich their vocabulary and to further enhance their reading comprehension skills. Additional vocabulary and advanced grammar structures will further improve their ability for self-expression in written work. Hispanic culture and tradition will be learned in depth by students' doing research work on them.
Prerequisite: Spanish II
Spanish IV: This course is preparatory to taking the AP Spanish Language examination. The course will help students gain mastery of the language. Students will focus working on listening, reading, speaking and writing exercises simulating an AP examination. Students will likewise be reading known literary selections from authors of the Hispanic countries to learn in depth the language and culture of the countries.
Prerequisite: Spanish III
AP Spanish: The Advanced Spanish Language course is comparable to an advanced level college Spanish language course. Emphasizing the use of Spanish for active communication, the course encompasses students' listening and reading authentic Hispanic materials and expressing in writing their thoughts with accuracy and fluency using appropriate vocabulary, idiomatic expressions, and conventions in expository writing.
Prerequisite: Spanish IV or in 12th Grade a strong Spanish III
Computer Education
Computer Literacy: (One semester, 1/2 credit) The computer literacy course is designed to provide a foundation of information technology skills and concepts that will prepare students for the use of technology in high school and later in college. In the course we will review, remediate and expand upon the use of various applications that are linked to school wide standards involving operation of information technology systems, responsible use of hardware and software, use of productivity tools, selecting and evaluating information sources, and developing strategies for problem solving and decision making. Topics that we will cover include: productivity software, searching the internet, evaluating websites, web-based applications, social and ethical issues in technology.
Prerequisite: None
Computer Graphics: The computer graphics elective allows students to explore and develop skills in creating and manipulating graphic images. We will investigate how computer graphics are used professionally and personally by students and adults. Students will work with industry-standard graphics applications such as Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign to develop individual proficiency. Topics that we will cover include: basic photo corrections vector art, digital painting, typography, and print design. This is a preparatory course for Year Book.
Prerequisite: None
Digital Media:(One semester, 1/2 credit) The digital media elective allows students to explore and develop skills in working with digital media in a variety of forms. We will investigate ways in which we encounter digital information in our lives through audio, video, images, and text. In conjunction with the course, students will work with digital media devices to develop individual proficiency so that they can utilize these resources academically and in their personal lives. All students are required to have a digital camera that they can use during this course. Topics that we will cover include: podcasting, video production, digital photography, desktop publishing, social and ethical issues in technology.
Prerequisite: None
Web Design: (One semester, 1/2 credit) The Web Design course uses a project-based approach to develop basic skills in working with Adobe Dreamweaver to create websites. We will cover the history of online communication and the evolution of the Internet. Students will design and develop portfolio-style websites as they apply skills that are introduced in lessons. In the course students learn about basic skills that involve working with text, graphics, and inserting links. The use of Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) is emphasized as a standard way to control page layout. More advanced topics that are covered include setting up blogs and creating flash animations. As projects are completed, students upload their websites to be viewed by family and friends.
Prerequisite: None
Fine Arts
Concert Band: Offered to 6-12 Grade students. Students will learn how to play and care for their instrument, how to read music and translate that music into performance on their instrument. Historical musical periods and an understanding of stylistic differences in music for concert band will be explored. Though the band program will attempt to teach a student with no prior experience on an instrument, most students will have at least one year of experience playing their chosen band Instrument. Previous experience in playing a band instrument is encouraged but NOT required. Students playing an instrument for the first time will very likely need to utilize after and before school tutoring to adjust to the repertoire demands. Members of this band have the opportunity to attend the EMAC Junior Varsity and Varsity Fine Arts Festivals.
Symphonic Band: Primarily an intermediate to advanced band, this group of 6-12 Graders perform music of all style periods from the Early Baroque up to the present day modern concert and popular styles. Members of this band have the opportunity to attend the EMAC Junior Varsity and Varsity Fine Arts Festivals. They may also audition for the International Honors Band Festival held annually in Europe. Admission to this band is by audition and conference with the band director. Previous experience in playing a band instrument at a high school level is essential.
Prerequisite: Concert Band or Beginning Band
Art I: This is a foundation course designed for the interested student to obtain basic skills, knowledge, concepts, and understanding of art. The student is to experience creative problem solving in two and three dimensional forms. Design elements and principles, color theory, drawing, painting, collage, ceramics, possible print making, and sculpture are studied. The student will learn to see and feel visual relationships, give critical evaluations of art, and demonstrate knowledge and understanding of art past and present. The student will learn to value art as an important realm of human experience as put forth in the discipline based structure of this course. Fields in art may be examined and practiced to offer vocational and professional career possibilities.
Art II: (Must have one year of High School Art or equivalent) For students who want to broaden their art experiences and further develop skills in drawing and painting. Concentrated sessions include both representation and conceptual expression. Categories covered include still life, portrait, figure, linear perspective, interiors and exteriors. Students have the opportunity to build a portfolio in preparation for completing an AP studio art portfolio.
Prerequisite: Art 1 or foundation equivalent; Art teacher evaluation.
Three-Dimensional Art (3D): (One semester, 1/2 credit; or full year, 1 credit) This elective course is open for all high school students. A discipline based approach to the subject, students will perceive and respond to 3-D design; produce original creative forms using elements and principles of design. Students will investigate selected historical and contemporary 3-D forms and their sociological origins and learn methods of production by using a variety of materials and techniques. Three-dimensional art can include but may not be limited to sculpture (all forms), ceramics, and textiles.
Prerequisite: Art II and/or teacher evaluation.
AP Art: (Must have completed Art II or equivalent) Designed for the serious art student who wants to fulfill requirements for a freshman college art course in the form of a completed drawing, 2-D design, or 3-D design portfolio containing forty to fifty quality art works. Students will solve problems in both representational and abstract categories exhibiting an ability to work at an intensive level in a broad range of styles and media. Students will also spend considerable time on a concentration or group of works with specific intent and direction. Work outside of class is required for this course.
Prerequisite: Art II and/or teacher evaluation.
Physical Education
High School Physical Education: Exercise and physical fitness is the focal point of this class. Students are required to take the Presidential Challenge Physical Fitness Test as part of this course. The assessment consists of three events: 1 Mile Run, Sit-Ups, and Push-Ups. In addition activities such as badminton, basketball, circuit weight training, soccer, volleyball, softball, touch football, and track and field are included.
Prerequisite: None
Recreational Leadership:(One Semester, 1/2 credit; Two semesters, 1.0 credits)
Students will learn to run a Intramural activity for middle school and high school students. The project consists of advertising, registration, officiating, and recording the results of their programs. In addition, they must participate in Pep Rallies, Community Services, and Weekend Sports Activities. Finally our students are responsible for working with the Athletic Department in sporting events such as Soccer, basketball volleyball, and track and field. They serve as officials, scorekeepers, events security. Team hosts and all support positions needed to host conference tournaments. Enrollment in this class also require fitness assessment of three events 1 1/2 Mile Run, Sit-Ups and Push- Ups. Some lifetime recreational activities such as bowling, kick boxing, and visits to local health clubs developed as part of this course Prerequisites: 2 P.E. credits or equivalent
Women Only Fitness This class offers girls the chance to tone & tighten, improve stamina, lose weight, gain flexibility, increase energy, and become stronger; in a girls only setting. The class will consist of different types of aerobic exercises. Aerobic means `with oxygen` and it requires the lungs and heart to meet the body's increased oxygen demand. Aerobics helps to strengthen our heart and lungs, which in turn leads to better expulsion of waste materials such as carbon dioxide. It helps the heart and is an efficient use of oxygen that helps to burn fat more effectively. Aerobics classes increase our chance of maintaining a healthy weight later in life. We will also learn about our target training zone and learn different exercises that can be done at home. This is program will consist of many ways of maintaining a healthy lifestyle which contributes to a healthy mind, body, and spirit. The program will be focused around our physical education standards on physical fitness and aerobic activities.
Prerequisite: Grade 11 or 12 standing
High School Choir
Students will have an opportunity to develop their vocal music skills singing: unison, two, three and four parts (SATB); choral music of all periods: Renaissance; Baroque; Classical; Romantic; and Contemporary, a cappella. Professional piano accompaniment augments the program.
Students will study and perform different styles: Christmas and Holiday Sacred, Pop, Spirituals, Gospel, Multicultural, World Music, Patriotic, Brotherhood, Folksongs, Show Tunes, Vocal Jazz and general school choirs' repertoires. Emphasis is placed upon vocal and choral technique, ear training, sight singing, and basics of music theory.
There are required performances throughout the year, including evening concerts in first and second semester, Christmas performances at school and also evening performances at local venues. All Choir students are required to be present at these performances.
Choir can be taken as a year-long course or a semester-long course. A background in music theory or prior choral experience will be helpful for students joining at the semester. Members of this choir have the opportunity to attend the EMAC Junior and Senior Arts Festivals. They may also audition for the International Honor Choir Festival.
Prerequisite: None
Health: (1 semester,1/2 credit)
This one semester course is designed to introduce personal health topics to 9th and 10th graders. It aims at getting students involved in the knowledge of Health education and adolescent Health issues by presenting a clear and comprehensive coverage of health. Students will learn to apply pertinent health information to their own lives and become more knowledgeable about their own wellness as well as becoming advocates for health promotion. This course focuses on the three main health concepts; physical, mental and social/familial. Some of the topics that will be covered in this survey course will be self image and self respect, mental disorders, physical health and nutrition, alcohol, tobacco, drug abuse, STD's including AIDS.
Yearbook
Yearbook: This elective class is where the school's annual publication is created and published. Students in this class will learn the basics of publication design including: planning for publications, creating content, designing layouts, and digital imaging. Staff members will be introduced to and use publishing software such as Adobe Photoshop and Adobe InDesign. As the deadline for printing approaches, the class will be divided into departments where each team will specialize and be responsible for different aspects of the Yearbook (layout, editorial, photography, etc...). This elective requires enormous dedication, commitment and readiness to occasionally work outside class hours.
Prerequisite: Computer Graphics Class 11th grade standing or higher, or teacher recommendation.
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