Courses Offered

Courses are Listed by Subject Departments

English English / Languages / ESL Department

ELAR-6
Grade: 6
Course length: 1 year

The Grade 6 (ELAR-6) English course is literature based which covers English Language Arts and Reading skills which are organized into the following strands: Reading, where students read and understand a wide variety of literary and informational texts; Writing, where students compose a variety of written texts with a clear controlling idea, coherent organization, and sufficient detail; Research, where students are expected to know how to locate a range of relevant sources and evaluate, synthesize, and present ideas and information; Listening and Speaking, where students listen and respond to the ideas of others while contributing their own ideas in conversations and in groups; and Oral and Written Conventions, where students learn how to use the oral and written conventions of the English language in speaking and writing. The standards are cumulative--students will continue to address earlier standards as needed while they attend to standards for their grade. In sixth grade, students will engage in activities that build on their prior knowledge and skills in order to strengthen their reading, writing, and oral language skills. Students will read and write on a daily basis. The skills obtained in grade 6 will allow students to move on to Grade 7 English (ELAR-7).

ELAR-7
Grade: 7
Course length: 1 year

The Grade 7 (ELAR-7) English course is literature based which covers Reading, where students read and understand a wide variety of literary and informational texts; Writing, where students compose a variety of written texts with a clear controlling idea, coherent organization, and sufficient detail; Research, where students are expected to know how to locate a range of relevant sources and evaluate, synthesize, and present ideas and information; Listening and Speaking, where students listen and respond to the ideas of others while contributing their own ideas in conversations and in groups; and Oral and Written Conventions, where students learn how to use the oral and written conventions of the English language in speaking and writing. The standards are cumulative--students will continue to address earlier standards as needed while they attend to standards for their grade. In seventh grade, students will engage in activities that build on their prior knowledge and skills in order to strengthen their reading, writing, and oral language skills. Students will read and write on a daily basis. The skills obtained in grade 7 will allow students to move on to Grade 8 English (ELAR-8).

ESL G7
Grade: 7
Course length: 1 year

Students enrolled in ESL G7 continue to increase and refine their communication skills. They are expected to plan, draft, and complete written compositions on a regular basis. Students edit their papers for clarity, engaging language, and the correct use of the conventions and mechanics of written English and, with increasing accuracy, produce final, error-free drafts. In this course, students practice all forms of writing. Students write to persuade and to report and describe. They will read extensively in multiple genres from world literature including reading selected stories, dramas, novels, and poetry originally written in English or translated to English. Students will learn literary forms and terms associated with selections being read. The skills obtained in ESL G7 will prepare students to move on to either Grade 8 ESL or Grade 8 English (ELAR-8).

ELAR-8
Grade: 8
Course length: 1 year

The Grade 8 (ELAR-8) English is a course built on the development of reading and writing skills through the analysis and examination of a variety of fiction and non-fiction texts. In reading, students are taught to broaden their scope of understanding by surpassing the literal meaning. Textual evidence, predictions, figurative language, and detection of theme are all used as a means to support answers and discussion. Connecting to real life, personal experience, and prior knowledge are highlighted. In writing, students demonstrate a variety of writing through expository, narrative, persuasive and descriptive techniques. From extended paragraphs to essays, students develop their own writing style. As well, crafting and reading poems are a focal point with great emphasis on poetic devices. Writing is done on a daily basis. The skills obtained in grade 9 will allow students to move on to Grade 9 English (ELAR-1).

ESL G8
Grade: 8
Course length: 1 year

Students enrolled in ESL G8 continue to increase and refine their communication skills. They are expected to plan, draft, and complete written compositions on a regular basis. Students edit their papers for clarity, engaging language, and the correct use of the conventions and mechanics of written English and, with increasing accuracy, produce final, error-free drafts. In this course, students practice all forms of writing. Students write to persuade and to report and describe. They will read extensively in multiple genres from world literature including reading selected stories, dramas, novels, and poetry originally written in English or translated to English. Students will learn literary forms and terms associated with selections being read. The skills obtained in ESL G8 will prepare students to move on to Grade 9 English (ELAR-1).

ELAR-1
Grade: 9
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1 credit

The Grade 9 (ELAR-1) English course is a literature-based course which covers the content areas of reading (fiction and non-fiction), writing (various analytical essays and creative writing), research, listening and speaking, and oral and written conventions (correct grammar and mechanics).  In ELAR-1, students will engage in activities that build on their prior knowledge and skills in order to strengthen their reading, writing, and oral language skills. Students will read and write on a daily class basis.  The skills obtained in grade 9 will allow students to move on to Grade 10 English (ELAR-2).

ELAR-2
Grade: 10
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1 credit

English II is a challenging course that enables students to use a flexible range of metacognitive reading skills in both assigned and independent reading to understand author’s message. Students will continue to apply skills learned in previous years but with greater depth and in increasingly more complex texts as they are expected to become self-directed, critical readers. Through various texts, students will make complex inferences about text and use textual evidence to support understanding. Students will also write various texts, such as persuasive essays to influence the attitudes and actions of a specific audience on specific issues. In addition, this course enables students to analyze the controlling idea and specific purpose of a passage and the textual elements that support and elaborate it, including both the most important detail and the less important details. Students will also explain the function of sensory language and apply it in written text.

ELAR-3
Grade: 11
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1 credit

The Grade 11 (ELAR-3) English course is a study of literature and composition with an emphasis on exploring universal themes and matters of human experience. This class delves into a myriad of English applications, building on both prior knowledge and including post-secondary aspects; rhetorical, expository, analytical, and narrative writing strategies are practiced and honed. A variety of writing is practiced on a daily basis demonstrating and improving the command of the English language. Literary interpretation and evaluation of fiction and non-fiction is a focal point for lessons. English language conventions such as research skills, purposeful writing and style are displayed through assignments. The skills obtained in grade 11 will allow students to move on to Grade 12 English (ELAR-4).

AP Language and Composition
Grades: 11 & 12
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1 credit

This course is designed to prepare advanced juniors and some seniors at DeBakey to take the Advanced Placement (AP) Exam in English Language and Composition in May to receive college credit. The student’s ultimate goal in taking this class should be to grow as a writer so that he/she is able to write papers on a college level across a range of subjects in the curriculum. The readings for this course will be appropriately broad to allow each student to practice writing about diverse subjects in each of the following forms: narrative, expository, analytical and argumentative essays. Emphasis will be given to three major forms of written argumentation, the effective incorporation of evidence from sources, and scholarly research methods required for success in college. The preponderance of reading materials in this course are from the Americas as the accompanying literary materials in this class will cover a great part of the material usually covered in a typical eleventh-grade course in addition to the content specific for the AP.

ELAR-4
Grades: 12
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1 credit

ELAR-4 is a challenging course that enables students to use a flexible range of metacognitive reading skills in both assigned and independent reading to understand author’s message. Students will continue to apply skills learned in previous years but with greater depth and in increasingly more complex texts as they are expected to become self-directed, critical readers. Through various texts, students will make complex inferences about text and use textual evidence to support understanding. Students will also write various texts, such as persuasive essays to influence the attitudes and actions of a specific audience on specific issues. In addition, this course enables students to analyze the controlling idea and specific purpose of a passage and the textual elements that support and elaborate it, including both the most important detail and the less important details. Students will also explain the function of sensory language and apply it in written text. Completion of ELAR-4 prepares students for college level learning and writing.

AP Literature and Composition
Grades: 12
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1 credit

This course is designed to allow students to focus on imaginative literature, works of recognized literary merit written originally in English as well as some works in translation (short stories of Gabriel Garcia Marquez). We will explore the social and historical contexts as well as Western literary traditions (including the Bible and Greek mythology) as foundations for the interpretation of these works. While some of these works may seem challenging and difficult in their maturity, we will approach them as representative of the difficulties and harshness of the human condition. This class is designated for advanced seniors. This course is targeted for students who are learning to write with stylistic maturity as they demonstrate understanding in the interpretation of literary works. Our goal is not to rush through a list of texts, but rather to read and get to “know a few works well,” to “read deliberately and thoroughly, taking time to understand a work’s complexity, to absorb its richness of meaning, and to analyze how that meaning is embodied in literary form.” Students will be expected to demonstrate college level research skills in assessing differing critical perspectives.

SPEECH
Grades: 9-12
Course length: 1 semester
Course credit: 1.0 credit

In order to have full participation in the civic process, students must have a good understanding of public dialogue. Students of Speech will learn the concepts and skills related to preparing and presenting public messages and to analyzing and evaluating the messages of others. Within this process, students will gain skills in reading, writing, speaking, listening, and thinking and will examine areas such as invention, organization, style, memory, and delivery.

STUDY SKILLS
Grades: 9
Course length: 1 semester
Course credit: 0.5 credit

Study Skills are study strategies that are applied to learning to maximize academic success. This elective course equips students with a multitude of learning skills that include effective reading skills, efficient note-taking strategies, prioritizing through goal setting, and organization skills. In this course, students acquire techniques for learning from texts, including studying word meanings, identifying and relating key ideas, drawing and supporting inferences, and reviewing study strategies. Students are also taught the methodical process of working on a research project/paper, which will help them later in high school and with their university academics.

JOURNALISM
Grade: 10 – 12
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1 credit

Journalism is an elective course, offered by the English Department. Students enrolled in Journalism write in a variety of forms for a variety of audiences and purposes. High school students enrolled in this course are expected to plan, draft, and complete written compositions on a regular basis, carefully examining their papers for clarity, engaging language, and the correct use of the conventions and mechanics of written English. Students will become analytical consumers of media and technology to enhance their communication skills. Published work of professional journalists, technology, and visual and electronic media are used as tools for learning as students create, clarify, critique, write, and produce effective communications. Students enrolled in Journalism will learn journalistic traditions, research self-selected topics, write journalistic texts, and learn the principles of publishing.

ORAL INTERPRETATION OF LITERATURE
Grades: 9
Course length: 1 semester
Course credit: 0.5 credit

Literature and its presentation are integral to understanding the cultural aspects of a society. Students in Oral Interpretation of Literature will select, research, analyze, adapt, interpret, and perform literary texts as a communication art. Students focus on intellectual, emotional, sensory, and aesthetic levels of texts to attempt to capture the entirety of the author's work. Individual or group performances of literature will be presented and evaluated.

INTRODUCTION TO FRENCH
Grades: 9-12
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1 credit

Introduction to French is an entry level class which involves the skills of interpersonal communication: speaking and writing. The student negotiates meaning through the spoken and written exchange of information in rehearsed and unrehearsed situations in a variety of contexts. The student uses a mixture of words and phrases and some simple sentences with appropriate and applicable grammar structures and processes at an early proficiency level. By the end of the course, students will be able to ask and respond to questions, express opinions, and articulate requests in spoken and written conversation using culturally appropriate expressions, register, and gestures. Students will also be able to comprehend sentence-length information from culturally authentic print, digital, audio, and audiovisual materials as appropriate within highly contextualized situations and sources. The completion of this course will allow students to move to French I.

FRENCH I
Grades: 9-12
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1 credit

French I is an intermediate level class which involves the skills of interpersonal communication: speaking and writing. The student negotiates meaning through the spoken and written exchange of information in rehearsed and unrehearsed situations in a variety of contexts. The student uses a mixture of short statements and sentences with appropriate and applicable grammar structures and processes at the intermediate proficiency level. By the end of the course, students will be able to ask and respond to questions, express opinions, and articulate requests in spoken and written conversation using culturally appropriate expressions, register, and gestures at a higher level than Introduction to French. Students will comprehend simple connected statements from culturally authentic print, digital, audio, and audiovisual materials as appropriate within contextualized situations and sources. The student will be able to interpret communication at intermediate proficiency levels. The completion of this course will allow students to move to French II.

FRENCH II
Grades: 9-12
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1 credit

French II is an intermediate-high level class which involves the skills of interpersonal communication: speaking and writing. The student will negotiate meaning through the spoken and written exchange of information in rehearsed and unrehearsed situations in a variety of contexts. The student will use a mixture of short statements, sentences, and strings of sentences with appropriate and applicable grammar structures and processes at the med-high proficiency level. By the end of the course, students will be able to ask and respond to questions about and beyond the scope of everyday life with simple elaboration in spoken and written conversation; express, request, and exchange personal opinions, with supporting statements in spoken and written conversation; and interact and react in writing using culturally appropriate expressions, register, and style. The student will comprehend and demonstrate an understanding of culturally authentic print, digital, audio, and audiovisual materials in a variety of contexts; paraphrase the main idea, theme, and supporting details from fiction and nonfiction texts and audio and audiovisual materials; infer meaning of unfamiliar words or phrases in contextualized texts, audio, and audiovisual materials; and compare and contrast cultural practices from authentic print, digital, audio, and audiovisual materials. Students will also be able to do full presentations in French. The completion of this course will allow students to move to college level French.

INTRODUCTION TO SPANISH
Grades: 9-12
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1 credit

Introduction to Spanish is an entry level class which involves the skills of interpersonal communication: speaking and writing. The student negotiates meaning through the spoken and written exchange of information in rehearsed and unrehearsed situations in a variety of contexts. The student uses a mixture of words and phrases and some simple sentences with appropriate and applicable grammar structures and processes at an early proficiency level. By the end of the course, students will be able to ask and respond to questions, express opinions, and articulate requests in spoken and written conversation using culturally appropriate expressions, register, and gestures. Students will also be able to comprehend sentence-length information from culturally authentic print, digital, audio, and audiovisual materials as appropriate within highly contextualized situations and sources. The completion of this course will allow students to move to Spanish I.

SPANISH I
Grades: 9-12
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1 credit

Spanish I is an intermediate level class which involves the skills of interpersonal communication: speaking and writing. The student negotiates meaning through the spoken and written exchange of information in rehearsed and unrehearsed situations in a variety of contexts. The student uses a mixture of short statements and sentences with appropriate and applicable grammar structures and processes at the intermediate proficiency level. By the end of the course, students will be able to ask and respond to questions, express opinions, and articulate requests in spoken and written conversation using culturally appropriate expressions, register, and gestures at a higher level than Introduction to French. Students will comprehend simple connected statements from culturally authentic print, digital, audio, and audiovisual materials as appropriate within contextualized situations and sources. The student will be able to interpret communication at intermediate proficiency levels. The completion of this course will allow students to move to Spanish II.

SPANISH II
Grades: 9-12
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1 credit

Spanish II is an intermediate-high level class which involves the skills of interpersonal communication: speaking and writing. The student will negotiate meaning through the spoken and written exchange of information in rehearsed and unrehearsed situations in a variety of contexts. The student will use a mixture of short statements, sentences, and strings of sentences with appropriate and applicable grammar structures and processes at the med-high proficiency level. By the end of the course, students will be able to ask and respond to questions about and beyond the scope of everyday life with simple elaboration in spoken and written conversation; express, request, and exchange personal opinions, with supporting statements in spoken and written conversation; and interact and react in writing using culturally appropriate expressions, register, and style. The student will comprehend and demonstrate an understanding of culturally authentic print, digital, audio, and audiovisual materials in a variety of contexts; paraphrase the main idea, theme, and supporting details from fiction and nonfiction texts and audio and audiovisual materials; infer meaning of unfamiliar words or phrases in contextualized texts, audio, and audiovisual materials; and compare and contrast cultural practices from authentic print, digital, audio, and audiovisual materials. Students will also be able to do full presentations in Spanish. The completion of this course will allow students to move to college level Spanish.

English Department Course Sequence

Our scheduling committee has started student schedules for the 2017-18 academic school year. Every student needs at least 4 full credits of English to graduate from our high school, and the sequence is ELAR-1, ELAR-2, ELAR-3, and ELAR-4. Students with excellent grades can have the option of taking AP courses in their 11th and 12th grade years. The following table allows you to see the possible English sequence options for high school students.

Grade Level Option 1 Option 2
9 ELAR-1 ELAR-1
10 ELAR-2 ELAR-2
11 ELAR-3 AP Language
12 ELAR-4 ELAR-4 OR AP Literature

Entry to AP courses are strictly based on the AP selection procedure. Please note that a student does not need to take AP Language in order to get into AP Literature. AP Language focuses on argument and rhetoric, while AP Literature focuses on literature analysis. A student can take AP in 11th grade and go back to standard English for Grade 12, if desired. All students must be enrolled in an English course each year.

Math Department Course Descriptions

Math
Grade 6
Course length: 1 year

The primary focal areas in Grade 6 are number and operations; proportionality; expressions, equations, and relationships; and measurement and data. Students use concepts, algorithms, and properties of rational numbers to explore mathematical relationships and to describe increasingly complex situations. Students use concepts of proportionality to explore, develop, and communicate mathematical relationships. Students use algebraic thinking to describe how a change in one quantity in a relationship results in a change in the other. Students connect verbal, numeric, graphic, and symbolic representations of relationships, including equations and inequalities. Students use geometric properties and relationships, as well as spatial reasoning, to model and analyze situations and solve problems. Students communicate information about geometric figures or situations by quantifying attributes, generalize procedures from measurement experiences, and use the procedures to solve problems. Students use appropriate statistics, representations of data, and reasoning to draw conclusions, evaluate arguments, and make recommendations. While the use of all types of technology is important, the emphasis on algebra readiness skills necessitates the implementation of graphing technology.

Course Content:

  • Numbers and Operations: Integers, Decimals, and Fractions
  • Linear Equations, Inequalities and Functions
  • Ratios and Proportions
  • Geometry
  • Measurements: Two- and Three- Dimensional Figures
  • Probability & Statistics

Math
Grade 7
Course length: 1 year

The primary focal areas in Grade 7 are number and operations, proportionality, expressions, equations, and relationships; and measurement and data. Students use concepts, algorithms, and properties of rational numbers to explore mathematical relationships and to describe increasingly complex situations. Students use concepts of proportionality to explore, develop, and communicate mathematical relationships, including number, geometry and measurement, and statistics and probability. Students use algebraic thinking to describe how a change in one quantity in a relationship results in a change in the other. Students connect verbal, numeric, graphic, and symbolic representations of relationships, including equations and inequalities. Students use geometric properties and relationships, as well as spatial reasoning, to model and analyze situations and solve problems. Students communicate information about geometric figures or situations by quantifying attributes, generalize procedures from measurement experiences, and use the procedures to solve problems. Students use appropriate statistics, representations of data, and reasoning to draw conclusions, evaluate arguments, and make recommendations.

Course Content:

  • Numbers and Operations: Integers, Decimals, and Fractions
  • Linear Equations and Functions
  • Patterns, Relationships, and Algebraic Thinking
  • Ratios and Proportions
  • Geometry
  • Measurements: Two- and Three- Dimensional Figures
  • Probability & Statistics

Math
Grade 8
Course length: 1 year

The Pre-Algebra course is to serve as a bridge between elementary mathematics and Algebra.  This course will build a foundation of algebraic concepts through the use of technology, manipulatives, problem solving, and cooperative learning. Concepts include algebraic expressions, linear equations, polynomials, factoring, inequalities, geometry, statistics, and graphing.
Students will learn to think flexibly about relationships among fractions, decimals, and percent; recognize and generate equivalent expressions and solve single-variable equations and inequalities. Students will investigate and explore mathematical ideas and develop multiple strategies for analyzing complex situations.
Students will analyze situations verbally, numerically, graphically, and symbolically. Also students will apply mathematical skills and make meaningful connections to their life experiences.

Course Content:

  • Variables, Expressions, and Integers
  • Solving Equations
  • Multi-Step Equations and Inequalities
  • Factors, Fractions and Exponents
  • Rational Numbers and Equations
  • Ratio, Proportion, and Probability
  • Percent
  • Linear Functions
  • Data Analysis and probability
  • Polynomials and Nonlinear Functions
  • Angle Relationships and Transformations

Algebra 1
Grade
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1 credit

General requirements. Students shall be awarded one credit for successful completion of this course. This course is recommended for students in Grade 8 or 9. Prerequisite: Mathematics, Grade 8 or its equivalent.
In Algebra I, students will build on the knowledge and skills for mathematics in Grades 6-8, which provide a foundation in linear relationships, number and operations, and proportionality. Students will study linear, quadratic, and exponential functions and their related transformations, equations, and associated solutions. Students will connect functions and their associated solutions in both mathematical and real-world situations. Students will use technology to collect and explore data and analyze statistical relationships. In addition, students will study polynomials of degree one and two, radical expressions, sequences, and laws of exponents. Students will generate and solve linear systems with two equations and two variables and will create new functions through transformations.

Geometry
Grade
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1 credit

General requirements. Students shall be awarded one credit for successful completion of this course. Prerequisite: Algebra I.

In Geometry, students will build on the knowledge and skills for mathematics in Kindergarten-Grade 8 and Algebra I to strengthen their mathematical reasoning skills in geometric contexts. Within the course, students will begin to focus on more precise terminology, symbolic representations, and the development of proofs. Students will explore concepts covering coordinate and transformational geometry; logical argument and constructions; proof and congruence; similarity, proof, and trigonometry; two- and three-dimensional figures; circles; and probability. Students will connect previous knowledge from Algebra I to Geometry through the coordinate and transformational geometry strand. In the logical arguments and constructions strand, students are expected to create formal constructions using a straight edge and compass. Though this course is primarily Euclidean geometry, students should complete the course with an understanding that non-Euclidean geometries exist. In proof and congruence, students will use deductive reasoning to justify, prove and apply theorems about geometric figures. Throughout the standards, the term "prove" means a formal proof to be shown in a paragraph, a flow chart, or two-column formats. Proportionality is the unifying component of the similarity, proof, and trigonometry strand. Students will use their proportional reasoning skills to prove and apply theorems and solve problems in this strand. The two- and three-dimensional figure strand focuses on the application of formulas in multi-step situations since students have developed background knowledge in two- and three-dimensional figures. Using patterns to identify geometric properties, students will apply theorems about circles to determine relationships between special segments and angles in circles. Due to the emphasis of probability and statistics in the college and career readiness standards, standards dealing with probability have been added to the geometry curriculum to ensure students have proper exposure to these topics before pursuing their post-secondary education.

Algebra 2
Grade
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1 credit

Algebra 2 class will allow students to explore mathematics and develop critical thinking skills. Students will use previously acquired algebraic and geometric skills to solve systems of equations and inequalities. Problem solving strategies will also be an important tool for learning about matrices, quadratic functions, exponential, logarithmic, polynomial, rational, radical and trigonometric functions. The classroom will be a place for mathematical discussion and investigation. Students will complete several Model Instructional Units from their textbook and using Laying the Foundation materials.

Pre-Calculus
Grade
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1 credit
Semester 1

Pre-Calculus Semester A is a course that combines reviews of algebra, geometry, and functions into a preparatory course for calculus. The course focuses on the mastery of critical skills and exposure to new skills necessary for success in subsequent math courses. The first semester includes linear, quadratic, exponential, logarithmic, radical, polynomial, and rational functions; systems of equations; and conic sections. In each unit, you will learn, practice, review, and discuss what you are learning before testing your knowledge in each of these topics. You will meet with your teacher in live class sessions designed to help you master more challenging problems at various times throughout the semester.

Semester 2

Pre-Calculus is a course that combines reviews of algebra, geometry, and functions into a preparatory course for calculus. The course focuses on the mastery of critical skills and exposure to new skills necessary for success in subsequent math courses. The second semester covers trigonometric ratios and functions; inverse trigonometric functions; applications of trigonometry, including vectors and laws of cosine and sine; polar functions and notation; and arithmetic of complex numbers. Just as in the first semester, you will learn, practice, review, and discuss what you are learning before testing your knowledge in each of these topics.

AP Calculus AB
Grades 12
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1 credit

This is a rigorous course designed to provide students with a learning experience equivalent to that of a college course in single variable calculus. The course develops students understanding of the concepts of calculus and provides experience with its methods and applications. The course emphasizes a multi-representational approach to calculus, with concepts, results, and problems being expressed graphically, numerically, analytically and verbally, with the connections among these representations highlighted.

Topics:

Advanced Functions

Several types of functions needed in this course will be reviewed along with their characteristics including: differences in polynomials, absolute value functions, polynomial in equalities and division, remainder theorem and factor theorem, and factoring polynomials.

Concepts of Calculus

A variety of mathematical operations with functions will be investigated including: rationalization, rates of change, the limit concept, indeterminate form, finding the slope of a curve, tangent slope function, derivatives and graphs.

Derivatives

In this unit students will see the power of the slope function and the applications of derivatives in a variety of style problems

Derivative Applications

A variety of types of problems will be presented in this unit and can generally be grouped into the following categories: Pythagorean problems, volume problems, trough problems, shadow problems, general rate problems. Each type will be examined separately

Derivatives of Exponents and Log Functions

Exponential functions, logarithmic functions, curve sketching and logarithmic differentials are all topics of this unit.

Trigonometry Differentials and Applications

The unit begins with a review of the three basic trig functions (sine, cosine, tangent). Angles, the CAST rule, sums and differences for sine/cosine form the second major topic. Finally solving trigonometric equations are pursued with a focus on limits, derivatives and applications of trigonometric functions.

Antiderivatives and Applications

The topics covered in this unit include the concept of antiderivatives, acceleration, velocity, differential equations, Riemann’s sums and areas, area function, definite integral and integration and area between curves.

AP Statistics
Grades 11/12
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1 credit

AP Statistics is a year-long course. The purpose of the course is to familiarize students with their current environment. Statistics is prevalent in day-to-day happenings and is becoming more prominent in main stream media because of the Internet. AP Statistics will help students when discerning data and allow them to analyze material in a more concise manner. Topics covered in the course will transcend curriculum in a sense that students will find practical application in every other class in which they are enrolled as well as everyday life.

The course emphasizes these four areas:

  1. Experimental Design Students design appropriate experiments in order to draw conclusions that can be generalized to the population of interest. Students will also interpret studies and experiments to determine whether the conclusions from the studies warrant consideration.
  2. Exploring Data Students collect and examine data and display the patterns that emerge. Data from students in class as well as real world data sets are gathered and used to illustrate concepts.
  3. Producing Models Using Probability and Simulation Students learn to anticipate patterns and produce models for prediction. Students use simulations to model situations that are not practical to replicate using other methods.
  4. Statistical Inference Students learn what can be generalized about the population. Students also consider how to investigate research questions, design a study, and interpret the results.

Business Computer Information Systems
Grades 9
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1 credit

Students implement personal and interpersonal skills to strengthen individual performance in the workplace and in society and to make a successful transition to the workforce and/or postsecondary education. Students apply technical skills to address business applications of emerging technologies.

Fundamentals of Computer Science
Grades 9/10
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1 credit

Fundamentals of Computer Science is intended as a first course for those students just beginning the study of computer science. Students will learn about the computing tools that are used every day. Students will foster their creativity and innovation through opportunities to design, implement, and present solutions to real-world problems. Students will collaborate and use computer science concepts to access, analyze, and evaluate information needed to solve problems. Students will learn the problem-solving and reasoning skills that are the foundation of computer science. By using computer science knowledge and skills that support the work of individuals and groups in solving problems, students will select the technology appropriate for the task, synthesize knowledge, create solutions, and evaluate the results. Students will learn digital citizenship by researching current laws and regulations and by practicing integrity and respect. Students will gain an understanding of the principles of computer science through the study of technology operations and concepts.

Engineering Track Courses

Principles of Applied Engineering course
Grades 9
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1 credit

The Principles of Applied Engineering course invites students to explore the many fields of engineering through scenarios and group projects that engage them in the problem-solving process. Students discover different types of engineering, engineering-related disciplines, history, career paths, positions, and typical skills and activities necessary for success in engineering careers.

Learning Objectives/Outcomes

  • Generate an interest in engineering careers to a wide variety of learners
  • Introduction to the different types of engineering and engineering-related disciplines, history, career paths, positions and typical skills and activities necessary for success
  • Engage in collaborative problem solving and hands-on experiments designed specifically for novice engineering students

Engineering Design and Presentation
Grades 10
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1 credit

Students enrolled in this course will demonstrate knowledge and skills of the process of design as it applies to engineering fields using multiple software applications and tools necessary to produce and present working drawings, solid model renderings, and prototypes. Students will use a variety of computer hardware and software applications to complete assignments and projects. Through implementation of the design process, students will transfer advanced academic skills to component designs. Additionally, students explore career opportunities in engineering, technology, and drafting and what is required to gain and maintain employment in these areas.

Course Requirements:

This course is recommended for students in Grades 10-12. Recommended prerequisite: Concepts of Engineering and Technology.

Course suggestion for the Engineering Track

S.NO Courses Level Prerequisite Number of credits
1 PAE; Principles of Applied Engineering Grade 9 No One
2 EDPI; Engineering Design and Presentation I Grade 10 Algebra I and PAE One
3 EDPII; Engineering Design and Presentation II Grade 11 and 12 Algebra I and Geometry and PAE And EDPI One
4 EDPS; Engineering Design and problem Solving Grade11 and 12 Algebra I and Geometry One

Math Department Course Sequence

Our scheduling committee has started student schedules for the 2017-18 academic school year. Every student needs at least 4 full credits of Math to graduate from our high school; and the sequence is Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2 and Pre-Calculus. Students with excellent grades can double their Math courses in a year 10 which will allow the possibility to take AP Statistics and/or AP Calculus. The following table allows you to see the possible Math sequence options for high school students.

Grade Level Option 1 Option 2 Option 3
1 Algebra 1 Algebra 1 Algebra 1
10 Geometry Geometry & Algebra 2 Geometry & Algebra 2
11 Algebra 2 Pre-Calculus Pre-Calculus & AP Statistics
12 Pre-Calculus AP Statistics and/or AP Calculus AP Calculus

Entry to AP courses are strictly based on the AP selection procedure. Please note that if a student completes Pre-Calculus in grade 11, but the student is not selected into an AP Math course in the senior year, the student will be enrolled in the Regular Calculus course. All students must be enrolled in a Math course each year.

Science Department

Middle School Science Program

Science
Grade 6
Course length: 1 year

Grade 6 science is interdisciplinary in nature; however, much of the content focus is on physical science. The strands for Grade 6 include: Matter and energy, Force, motion, and energy Earth and space and Organisms and environments. Students should be able to demonstrate their understanding of Scientific investigations using models and other assessments including lab activities. The course is outlined to develop reasoning and scientific knowledge and skills. Students should also be able to distinguish between scientific decision-making methods and ethical/social decisions that involve the application of scientific information.

Science
Grade 7
Course length: 1 year

Grade 7 science is interdisciplinary in nature; however, much of the content focus is on organisms and the environment. Students should be able to answer the most fundamental questions about the nature of life. The course aims to provide students with knowledge so they are able to make informed decisions about the world in which we live. Students will be required to apply scientific and critical thinking skills to solve problems and complete experiments. Each student should be able to explain, illustrate and evaluate information using the scientific method and inquiry skills. Classroom activities, such as teacher demonstrations, group projects, textbook assignments, class discussions, and application of current theories/ facts, will be used to promote a great understanding, appreciation and literacy in life sciences.

Science
Grade 8
Course length: 1 year

Grade 8 science is interdisciplinary in nature; however, much of the content focus is on earth and space science. The strands for Grade 8 include scientific investigation and reasoning, Matter and energy.  Force, motion, and energy, Earth and space, Organisms and environments. Students examine information on the Periodic Table to recognize that elements are grouped into families. In addition, students understand the basic concept of conservation of mass. Lab activities will allow students to demonstrate evidence of chemical reactions. They will use chemical formulas and balanced equations to show chemical reactions and the formation of new substances. Science Grade 8 is a course, which will focus on earth science with an integration of chemistry, physics, and life science. Concepts, which are found in common with other sciences, will be emphasized in themes covering environmental interactions, systems and structures, energy and changes over time. This course will show relevance to student learning and understanding of science.

High School Science Program

The High School Science sequence is designed to provide a smooth transition from Middle School to High School. All grade 9 high school students will start with Integrated Physics and Chemistry (IPC) and/ Biology. In grade 10 Biology is mandatory for all students, with the option of also taking Chemistry. In grades 11 and 12 students can then make an informed choice on the science path that is most appropriate for their careers.
Some typical options are shown in the following flow chart.

Students who wish to pursue AP courses in Grade 11 or 12 will need to provide the necessary foundations by taking the appropriate prerequisite courses.
Students in grade 11 and 12 who are behind in their science requirements may need to take more than one course to meet graduation requirements.

Integrated Physics and Chemistry (IPC)
Grade 9
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1 credit

This IPC class is a basic presentation of the study of matter and energy and their interactions/transformations in the environment. The course is designed to provide the students with a good preparation for further studies in Physics and Chemistry. Due to the challenging content in this class, students are able to use their analytical, mathematical, and organizational skills. Activities, such as experiments, class demonstrations, group projects, textbook assignments, discussions and applications of current theories and established facts are used to promote greater understanding, appreciation, and literacy in science. Units studied include: chemical interactions, heat, motion and forces, electronics and waves.

Students will be expected to convey their understanding of the skills learn through a range of activities such as

  • Quiz
  • Tests
  • Labs
  • Projects
  • Science Fair
  • Homework

Biology
Grade 9/10
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1 credit

This is a basic Biology course dealing with the study of living organisms and their interaction with one another and the environment. In all of human history, we have never been at the stage we are embarking upon now, where we stand on the threshold of answering many of the most fundamental questions about the nature of life. The course aims to provide students with knowledge so they are able to make informed decisions about the world in which we live. Students will be required to apply scientific and critical thinking skills to solve problems and complete experiments. Each student should be able to explain, illustrate and evaluate information using the scientific method and inquiry skills. Classroom activities, such as teacher demonstrations, group projects, textbook assignments, class discussions, and application of current theories/ facts, will be used to promote a great understanding, appreciation and literacy in Biology.
Students will be expected to convey their understanding of the skills learn through a range of activities such as

  • Quiz
  • Tests
  • Labs
  • Projects
  • Science Fair
  • Homework

AP Biology
Grade 11‐12
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1 credit

AP biology is recommended for advanced science students. Students have the option of taking the AP exam at the end of the year in order to earn college credit. Topics covered are similar to those in the high school biology course however the coursework is offered at the college level. This course requires a high level of student commitment in order to keep up with the demanding workload. Topics covered include: biochemistry; cell structure and function; communication; metabolism; cellular reproduction; genetics; molecular basic of inheritance; DNA technology; evolution; microbiology; plants; invertebrates; vertebrates; comparative anatomy and physiology; and ecology. The eight major themes from the AP Biology Curriculum Requirements are used to emphasize how the topics covered are all interconnected
Students will be expected to convey their understanding of the skills learn through a range of activities such as

  • Quiz
  • Tests
  • Labs
  • Projects
  • Homework

Physics
Grade 11 or 12
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1 credit

This course is an introduction to the world of physics. Physics is found in every aspect of daily life; from our own existence to everything we see and touch, natural or man-made. This is the first comprehensive physics course in high school. It covers to some extent all major areas of physics. Students will perform experiments, solve problems, and develop a project in order to understand the principles that govern the physical world.
This course will continue to develop problem-solving skills and Scientific method that is needed in a successful career and life. Students will learn to develop and apply mathematical models to describe and predict, respectively, the behavior of physical systems. Topics include mechanics of motion, velocity, acceleration, interactions of matter and energy, forces, work, power, energy, momentum, light, sound and electricity.
Students will be expected to convey their understanding of the skills learn through a range of activities such as

  • Quiz
  • Tests
  • Labs
  • Projects
  • Science Fair
  • Homework

AP Physics
Grade 12
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1 credit

Physics is the study of everything in the universe, from the largest galaxies to the smallest subatomic particles that make up the world around us. It is the study of matter and motion as well as space and time. It is the field of science that is the broadest in scope, and this course will definitely prepare you well for further study and exploration in the other fields of science such as biology and chemistry.
AP Physics is a very demanding course that is designed to be the equivalent to a two semester course usually taken by university students in their freshman year of college. Physics and Algebra II are a pre-requisite to AP Physics, and it is very important that you have very strong math and problem solving skills.
Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, laboratory techniques, and scientific inquiry. Topics covered include: kinematics, dynamics, momentum, energy, thermodynamics, light, sound, electricity, magnetism, and modern Physics. Physical Science and familiarity with laboratory techniques and basic numerical analysis are prerequisites for this course.
Students will be expected to convey their understanding of the skills learn through a range of activities such as

  • Quiz
  • Tests
  • Labs
  • Projects
  • Homework

Chemistry
Grades 10, 11 or 12
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1 credit

This course is a general introduction into chemistry that will build on material covered in IPC as well as introduce new topics such as chemical equilibrium, thermodynamics, gases, acids/bases, reaction rates, oxidation/reduction, and nuclear chemistry. The course incorporates many hands-on laboratory experiments, and will allow a deeper understanding of our environment and the mechanisms underlying the chemistry of life.
Students will be expected to convey their understanding of the skills learn through a range of activities such as

  • Quiz
  • Tests
  • Labs
  • Projects
  • Science Fair
  • Homework

AP Chemistry
Grades 11‐12
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1 credit

This course is designed to be the equivalent of the general chemistry course usually taken during the first college year. Students should attain a depth of understanding of fundamentals and a reasonable competence in dealing with chemical problems. The course should contribute to the development of the students’ abilities to think clearly and to express their ideas, orally and in writing, with clarity and logic.

The course topics include stoichiometry; properties of gases, liquids, solids, and solutions; chemical equilibrium, chemical thermodynamics, atomic and molecular structure, chemical kinetics, periodic properties, and descriptive chemistry of the elements. Students who intend to enroll in this class should have successfully completed high school chemistry and Algebra I. Strong math skills are essential.
Students will be expected to convey their understanding of the skills learn through a range of activities such as

  • Quiz
  • Tests
  • Labs
  • Projects
  • Homework

Science Department course sequence

Grade Level Option 1 Option 2
9 IPC & BIO IPC & BIO
10 CHEM CHEM
11 PHYSICS PHYSICS & AP CHEM/AP BIO/AP PHYSICS
12 AP CHEM/AP BIO/AP PHYSICS AP CHEM/AP BIO/AP PHYSICS

Note:Entry to AP courses are strictly based on the AP selection procedure

Social Studies Department

American History
Grade 6
Course length: 1 year

This course will offer and overview of American History from the Explores to the War of 1812. Students will look at the explores, and finding of the United States, through the American Revolution, Declaration of Independence, Creation of the Constitution, ending with the War of 1812. Students will examine primary source documents, work on reading comprehension and writing and analytical skills.

World Study
Grade 7
Course length: 1 year

This course will offer a comprehensive review of our world. It will start by exploring the world based on the concept of regions. Using these world regions, students review map and graph interpretation skills. This course introduces students to world cultural regions that form the basis for the 7th grade Contemporary World Cultures curriculum. From there students will be introduced to the concept of systems including the physical and human systems that geographers use to organize and study people and patterns in the world. These concepts continue throughout the course supported with specific regional content as students learn more about each major world cultural and geographic region. The course will also introduce the concept of a geographic region through the in-depth study of regions by focusing on the setting, history, cultural geography, and current issues.

American History
Grade 8
Course length: 1 year

Students in grade eight study the ideas, issues, and events from the Early Settlement of the Colonies to World War I, with an emphasis on America's role in the war. After reviewing the development of America's democratic institutions founded on the Judeo-Christian heritage and English parliamentary traditions, particularly the shaping of the Constitution, students trace the development of American politics, society, culture, and economy and relate them to the emergence of major regional differences. They learn about the challenges facing the new nation, with an emphasis on the causes, course, and consequences of the Civil War. They make connections between the rise of industrialization and contemporary social and economic conditions.

World Geography
Grade 9
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1 credit

World Geography is a foundation course that exposes students to the physical, as well as material, world where we are all active participants engaged in a variety of activities that help to ensure our future. To understand this better and connect with our place in the world, this course focuses on five major themes of geography; location, place, regions, movement, and human-environment interactions. These themes act as a guide for teaching concepts such as mapping skills, defining and comparing world regions, environmental interactions between humans and place, migration patterns, religions, political systems, economic systems, development, and our ability to adapt and change the physical world into a place where everyone can live together and satisfy their basic needs. Students will read, write, research and present a variety of topics related to these core ideas. As a result of these core ideas, World Geography exposes students to the many concepts and ideas that connect us together, and helps us better understand ideas in future courses.

World History
Grade 10
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1 credit

World History is a course that focuses on key thematic ideas such as; arts and ideas, belief systems, economic systems, geography and environment, government and citizenship, migration and diffusion, science and technology, and society. By focusing on such concepts as revolutions in agriculture, early empire builders, feudal Europe, the Americas, the Columbian Exchange, the scientific revolution and enlightenment, revolutions in America and Europe, WWI & WWII and then finishing with our ever evolving world and its complexities, we cover major time periods in history that make connections with the past, the present, and also projections into the future. Students will gain an understanding of broad historical time periods by focusing on interactions of cultures, and the social, political, religious, intellectual, technological, and economic ties that bind us together.

United States History
Grade 11
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1 credit

Us History is a survey of the United States from the 1920s through its role as a global leader today. Students will explore compelling questions that frame historical inquiry into the issues of Great Depression, WWII, Civil Rights. Cold War and the Vietnam War. The intent of the course is to encourage students to ask creative compelling questions and to equip them with tools to answer them. Emphasis place on reading comprehension, primary source inquiry, document analysis, critical thinking and evidence based argumentation.

United States Government
Grade 12
Course length: 1 semester
Course credit: 0.5 credit

Over one semester, this course will offer a comprehensive review of the fundamental principles and functions of government. Learning about government will provide a foundation for you to think critically about politics and make informed choices as citizens, regardless of your country of origin. The curriculum covers topics such as rule of law, natural rights, citizen action, constitutionalism, federalism, and much else. We will begin with a general overview of political history, ideas, and systems. The latter part of the course will explore the real life application of these ideas using the United States as a case study, specifically the responsibilities and interaction of the Legislative, Executive, and Judicial branches of government.

Economics Principles and Practices
Grade 12
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1 credit

This course will offer a comprehensive review of Economics. Students will master fundamental economic concepts, applying the tools (graphs, statistics, equations) from other subject areas to the understanding of operations and institutions of economic systems. Studied in a historic context are the basic economic principles of micro- and macroeconomics, international economics, comparative economic systems, measurement, and methods

AP Human Geography
Grade 11/12
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1 credit

AP Human Geography introduces students to the systematic study of patters and processes that have shaped human understanding, as well as the use and alteration of Earth’s surface. Students learn to employ spatial concepts and landscape analysis to examine human socioeconomic organization and its environmental consequences. There are no prerequisites for this course; however, students who have had experience with world geography, world history, or earth science may more easily address the objectives of this course. The course is divided into seven main units, which are; mapping, population and migration, cultural patterns and processes, political organization of space, agriculture, industrialization and economic development, & cities and urban land use. The basic concepts for all of these ideas are addressing and understanding the fundamental questions of where and why. Where we live on the planet and why we live there. Therefore, this course deals primarily with the human element of geography.

AP Psychology
Grade 11/12
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1 credit

The AP Psychology course introduces students to the systematic and scientific study of human behavior and mental processes. While considering the psychologists and studies that have shaped the field, students explore and apply psychological theories, key concepts, and phenomena associated with such topics as the biological bases of behavior, sensation and perception, learning and cognition, motivation, developmental psychology, testing and individual differences, treatment of abnormal behavior, and social psychology. Throughout the course, students employ psychological research methods, including ethical considerations, as they use the scientific method, evaluate claims and evidence, and effectively communicate ideas.

Business Track Courses
Principles of Business, Marketing, and Finance
Grade 9
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1 credit

In Principles of Business, Marketing, and Finance, students gain knowledge and skills in economies and private enterprise systems, the impact of global business, marketing of goods and services, advertising, and product pricing. Students analyze the sales process and financial management principles. This course allows students to reinforce, apply, and transfer academic knowledge and skills to a variety of interesting and relevant activities, problems and settings in business, marketing, and finance.

Global Business
Grade 10
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1 credit

Students implement personal and interpersonal skills to strengthen individual performance in the workplace and in society and to make a successful transition to the workforce and postsecondary education. Students apply technical skills to address global business applications of emerging technologies. Students develop a foundation in the economical, financial, technological, international, social, and ethical aspects of business to become competent consumers, employees, and entrepreneurs. Students enhance reading, writing, computing, communication, and reasoning skills and apply them to the business environment.

Business Management
Grade 11
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1 credit

Introduction. Students recognize, evaluate, and prepare for a rapidly evolving global business environment that requires flexibility and adaptability. Students analyze the primary functions of management and leadership, which are planning, organizing, staffing, directing or leading, and controlling. Topics will incorporate social responsibility of business and industry. Students develop a foundation in the economical, financial, technological, international, social, and ethical aspects of business to become competent managers, employees, and entrepreneurs. Students incorporate a broad base of knowledge that includes the legal, managerial, marketing, financial, ethical, and international dimensions of business to make appropriate management decisions.

Practicum in Business Management
Grade 12
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1 credit

Introduction. The Practicum is designed to give students supervised practical application of previously studied knowledge and skills. Practicum experiences occur in a paid or unpaid arrangement and a variety of locations appropriate to the nature and level of experience. Students implement personal and interpersonal skills to strengthen individual performance in the workplace and in society and to make a successful transition to the workforce or postsecondary education. Students apply technical skills to address business applications of emerging technologies. Students develop a foundation in the economical, financial, technological, international, social, and ethical aspects of business to become competent consumers, employees, and entrepreneurs. Students enhance reading, writing, computing, communication, and reasoning skills and apply them to the business environment. Students incorporate a broad base of knowledge that includes the legal, managerial, marketing, financial, ethical, and international dimensions of business to make appropriate business decisions

Social Studies Department Course Sequence

Grade Level Option 1 Option 2
9 World Geography World Geography
10 World History World History
11 American History American History &
AP Human Geography or AP Psychology
12 American Government/ Economics American Government/Economics &
AP Human Geography or AP Psychology

Health Science and Technology Department

Health Education
Grade 6
Course length: 1 year
Course Credit: 1.0 credit

In health education, students acquire the health information and skills necessary to become healthy adults and learn about behaviors in which they should and should not participate. To achieve that goal, students will understand the following: Self-Esteem and how to cope with conflict and stress. Students should first seek guidance in the area of health from their parents; personal behaviors can increase or reduce health risks throughout the lifespan; health is influenced by a variety of factors; including physical fitness and nutrition. Students can recognize and utilize health information and products; and personal/interpersonal skills are needed to promote individual, family, and community health. Students are taught about factors in their environment that impact, not only their health and the health of their families, but the health of their communities as well. Middle school students learn to refine their critical thinking skills to avoid unsafe situations, analyze health information and products, and maintain healthy relationships. Students begin to investigate health in the broader context of community.

Health 7
Grade 7
Course length: 1 year
Course Credit: 1.0 credit

In health education, students acquire the health information and skills necessary to become healthy adults and learn about behaviors in which they should and should not participate. To achieve that goal, students will understand the following: students should first seek guidance in the area of health from their parents; personal behaviors can increase or reduce health risks throughout the lifespan; health is influenced by a variety of factors; students can recognize and utilize health information and products; and personal/interpersonal skills are needed to promote individual, family, and community health. Healthy body and healthy weight will be discussed as well as how to manage conflict and violence. In middle school, students learn about health behaviors that will safeguard their health. Students are taught about factors in their environment that impact, not only their health and the health of their families, but the health of their communities as well. Middle school students learn to refine their critical thinking skills to avoid unsafe situations, analyze health information and products, and maintain healthy relationships. Students begin to investigate health in the broader context of community.

Health 8
Grade 8
Course length: 1 year
Course Credit: 1.0 credit

In health education, students acquire the health information and skills necessary to become healthy adults and learn about behaviors in which they should and should not participate. To achieve that goal, students will understand the following: students should first seek guidance in the area of health from their parents; personal behaviors can increase or reduce health risks throughout the lifespan; health is influenced by a variety of factors; students can recognize and utilize health information and products; and personal/interpersonal skills are needed to promote individual, family, and community health. Good decision making skills will be emphasized such as how to manage stress. In middle school, students learn about health behaviors that will safeguard their health such as sports and conditioning and about nutrition. Students are taught about factors in their environment that impact, not only their health and the health of their families, but the health of their communities as well. Middle school students learn to refine their critical thinking skills to avoid unsafe situations, analyze health information and products, and maintain healthy relationships. Students begin to investigate health in the broader context of community.

Introduction to Health Science Technology
Grade: 9/10
Course length: 1 year
Course Credit: 1 credit

This course is designed as the introductory class for the Health Science Technology. Students learn about health care trends by reflecting on the history of medicine and important contributors. They gain insight into qualities of health care workers and about various life skills and safety issues including stress and time management as they learn to communicate effectively and work as a team. This course is also designed to introduce students to the structure of medical terms, including prefixes, suffixes, word roots, plus medical abbreviations and acronyms. The health science industry is comprised of diagnostic, therapeutic, health informatics, support services, and biotechnology research and development systems that function individually and collaboratively to provide comprehensive health care. Students will learn the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue a health science career through further education and employment. Students will have an understudying that integrity in the health care industry is dependent on acceptance of ethical and legal responsibilities.

Health Science Technology 1
Grade: 10/11
Course length: 1 year
Course Credit: 1 credit

After an introduction, this course prepares the student for the transition to clinical and work based experiences in the Health Care System. A brief revision of the concepts of communication, leadership and stress management will be conducted. Homeostatic Mechanisms like temperature regulation are introduced leading to a detailed examination of the structure and function of the human body and the various organ systems and the diseases associated with the system. Basic clinical skills like examination of Vital Signs are learnt and specialized training in First Aid and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation is undertaken by the student.

Health Science Technology 2
Grade: 11/12
Course length: 1 year
Course Credit: 1 credit

The students are prepared with the knowledge required to assist health care professionals with patient care, examination, diagnosis and treatment. They are exposed to different aspects of health care and management like medical physician assisting, dental assisting and diagnostic testing in different laboratories. They are introduced to psychology towards the end of the school year. This equips them with the basic knowledge and skills to enter university and pursue a career in health care.

Health Science Technology 3
Grade: 12
Course length: 1 year
Course Credit: 1 credit

Students advance a step further in appreciating the diverse aspects of health care and focus on understanding different disciplines in medicine and surgery and understanding diagnostics by imaging. They gain understanding of pharmacology, nutrition, growth & development, and geriatrics in addition to nursing skills. The course includes rotations in the hospitals where they will acquire a real experience of health care. The course prepares them for the final step towards a health profession.

Health Science and Technology Department course sequence

Grade Level Subject
9 Introduction to Health Science Technology
10 Health Science Technology 1
11 Health Science Technology 2
12 Health Science Technology 3

Electives Department

PE
Grade 6
Course length: 1 year

In Physical Education, students acquire the knowledge and skills for movement that provide the foundation for enjoyment, continued social development through physical activity, and access to a physically-active lifestyle. The student exhibits a physically-active lifestyle and understands the relationship between physical activity and health throughout the life span.

Sixth grade students apply similar concepts from one sport or movement setting to another. Students can observe another individual's performance and notice key elements for success. At this grade level, students participate in physical activity while maintaining a healthy level of fitness as their bodies grow and change. Their knowledge of safety and the ability to manage their own behavior is reinforced. Instruction is directed toward encouraging the incorporation of physical activity into a daily routine and toward fundamental skill development.

PE
Grade 7
Course length: 1 year

In Physical Education, students acquire the knowledge and skills for movement that provide the foundation for enjoyment, continued social development through physical activity, and access to a physically-active lifestyle. The student exhibits a physically-active lifestyle and understands the relationship between physical activity and health throughout the lifespan.

Seventh grade students apply similar concepts from one sport or movement setting to another. Students can observe another individual's performance and notice key elements for success. At this grade level, students participate in physical activity while maintaining a healthy level of fitness as their bodies grow and change. Their knowledge of safety and the ability to manage their own behavior is reinforced. Instruction is directed toward encouraging the incorporation of physical activity into a daily routine and toward fundamental skill development.

PE
Grade 8
Course length: 1 year

In Physical Education, students acquire the knowledge and skills for movement that provide the foundation for enjoyment, continued social development through physical activity, and access to a physically-active lifestyle. The student exhibits a physically-active lifestyle and understands the relationship between physical activity and health throughout the lifespan.

In Grade 8, although the acquisition of physical fitness and skill development is important, emphasis is placed more on participation for enjoyment and challenge. Understanding the need to remain physically active throughout life by participating in enjoyable lifetime activities is the basis for eighth grade instruction.

PE
Grade 9-10-11-12
Course length: 2 year
Course credit: 2.0 credit

In Physical Education, students acquire the knowledge and skills for movement that provide the foundation for enjoyment, continued social development through physical activity, and access to a physically-active lifestyle. The student exhibits a physically-active lifestyle and understands the relationship between physical activity and health throughout the lifespan.
Foundations of Personal Fitness represents a new approach in physical education and the concept of personal fitness. The basic purpose is to motivate students to strive for lifetime personal fitness with an emphasis on the health-related components of physical fitness. The knowledge and skills taught include teaching students about the process of becoming fit as well as achieving some degree of fitness within the class.
Team and Individual Sports represents a wide range sports that reinforce the concept of incorporating physical activity into a lifestyle beyond high school, appreciation for team work, and fair play.

Visual Arts
Grade 6
Course length: 1 year

Art, as a universal language, incorporates the study of visual arts to offer unparalleled experiences and empower students to explore realities, relationships, and ideas. Art engages and motivates all students through active learning, critical thinking, and innovative problem solving. This discipline develops cognitive functioning and increases student academic achievement, higher order thinking skills, communication, and collaboration. Students develop relevant aesthetic and cultural awareness through exploration leading to creative expression. Creativity is essential and the study of the Fine Arts nurtures and develops the whole child.

Four basic strands provide broad, unifying structures for organizing the knowledge and skills students are expected to acquire:

  • Perception
  • Creative expression
  • Historical/cultural heritage
  • Response/Evaluation

Visual Arts
Grade 7
Course length: 1 year

Art, as a universal language, incorporates the study of visual arts to offer unparalleled experiences and empower students to explore realities, relationships, and ideas. Art engages and motivates all students through active learning, critical thinking, and innovative problem solving. This discipline develops cognitive functioning and increases student academic achievement, higher order thinking skills, communication, and collaboration. Students develop relevant aesthetic and cultural awareness through exploration leading to creative expression. Creativity is essential and the study of the Fine Arts nurtures and develops the whole child.

Four basic strands provide broad, unifying structures for organizing the knowledge and skills students are expected to acquire:

  • Foundations: observation, perception and application of The Elements of Art and Principles of Design.
  • Creative expression
  • Historical and cultural relevance
  • Critical evaluation and response

Visual Arts
Grade 9-10-11-12
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1.0 credit

Art, as a universal language, incorporates the study of visual arts to offer unparalleled experiences and empower students to explore realities, relationships, and ideas. Art engages and motivates all students through active learning, critical thinking, and innovative problem solving. This discipline develops cognitive functioning and increases student academic achievement, higher order thinking skills, communication, and collaboration. Students develop relevant aesthetic and cultural awareness through exploration leading to creative expression. Creativity is essential and the study of the Fine Arts nurtures and develops the whole child.

Four basic strands provide broad, unifying structures for organizing the knowledge and skills students are expected to acquire:

  • Foundations: Observation, perception and application of The Elements of Art and Principles of Design.
  • Creative expression: Wide range of techniques like: shading, action painting, linocut printing, technical drawing, Photoshop, etc.
  • Historical and cultural relevance: Students will learn about selected Modern Art movements. Art from other cultures will be explored in Cycle 2, when they will have the opportunity to investigate the artistic expressions of their native country.
  • Critical evaluation and response: Students will use the Feldman method of critique to write about different artworks. It deploys four steps: Description, Analysis, Interpretation and Evaluation.

Performing Arts Course Description

Music
Middle School
Course length: 1 year

Middle School Music course aims to provide general view and knowledge about standard music notation, meter, rhythm, scales, key signatures and chords. Other music elements such as melody, harmony, dynamics, texture, timbre are also included in the learning. These topics are to be discussed thoroughly for the students to understand deeply and easily as they move to the higher level of music course.

The subject also provides basic skills in playing the piano and guitar, and coaching proper singing techniques to enhance their talents and skills and increase students’ confidence in their performances inside and outside the classroom.

Music
High School
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1 credit

High School Music course is designed for advance music lessons. Musical elements like melody, harmony, rhythm, dynamics, timbre and form and style will be learned thoroughly containing performances through singing and playing keyboard, guitar and drums to apply the knowledge and skills gained individually.

Introduction to the critical study of Western music history including representative composers, works, and genres, as well as significant concepts and issues are to be discussed for the student to develop an insight as an approach in diverse cultures and music periods. And, simple music composition will be given for the students to come up with the highest level of learning through creating their own music.

Robotics
High School
Course length: 1 year
Course credit: 1 credit

This course is designed to foster student’s creativity and innovation by presenting opportunities to design, implement and present meaningful robotic programs through a variety of media. Through this course students will understand the principles of robotics through the study of physics, robotics, automation and engineering design concepts.

Technology applications

Prerequisite for the course is completion of grade 7 and in the process of completing grade 8.

Technology applications is a course designed to introduce students to the understanding and use of technology advances that are occurring in the world. Students will learn how different technology devices work and how to use different programs to solve problems through creativity and collaboration.

Through the study of technology applications, students make informed decisions by understanding current and emerging technologies, including technology systems, appropriate digital tools, and personal learning networks. As competent researchers and responsible digital citizens, students use creative and computational thinking to solve problems while developing career and college readiness skills.

The technology applications curriculum has six strands based on the National Educational Technology Standards for Students (NETS•S) and performance indicators developed by the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE). Below is the list of the performance indicators that the course focuses on.

Creativity and innovation, Communication and collaboration, Research and information fluency, Critical thinking, Problem solving, Decision making, Digital citizenship, Technology operations and concepts.

AP Computer Science Principles

Computing affects almost all aspects of modern life and all students deserve a computing education that prepares them to pursue the wide array of intellectual and career opportunities that computinghas made possible.

This course is not a tour of current events and technologies. Rather, this course seeks to provide students with a “future proof” foundation in computing principles so that they are adequately prepared with both the knowledge and skills to live and meaningfully participate in our increasingly digital society, economy, and culture.

The Internet and Innovation provide a narrative arc for the course, a thread connecting all of the units. The course starts with learning about what is involved in sending a single bit of information from one place to another and ends with students considering the implications of a computing innovation of their own design. Along the way students learn: 

  • How the Internet works and its impacts on society.
  • How to program and rapidly prototype small JavaScript applications both to solve problems and to satisfy personal curiosity.
  • How to collect, analyze and visualize data to gain insight and knowledge.
  • How to evaluate the beneficial and harmful effects to people and society brought on by computing innovations.