Executive Education Schools has drafted curricular guides for English language arts, mathematics, social studies, and business education. The Common Core State Standards challenge students by setting more rigorous and intensive objectives for learning.
Executive Education Schools has drafted curricular guides for English language arts, mathematics, social studies, and business education. The Common Core State Standards challenge students by setting more rigorous and intensive objectives for learning.
Executive Education Schools has drafted curricular guides for English language arts, mathematics, social studies, and business education. The Common Core State Standards challenge students by setting more rigorous and intensive objectives for learning.
The program of studies booklet represents the initial step students will take to realize their future plans. It is important for students to understand that wise course planning combined with their acceptance of responsibility will create a foundation for future success to reach any goal that a student may set. Take courses that challenge you, and get involved in your school. Be sure to plan courses that will be a foundation for future growth and help support your educational goals. Our best wishes to all of you for a successful, healthy, and happy school year.
Exec ut i ve Educ at i on Ac ademy Chart er Sc hool ( EEACS) Admi ni st rat i on.
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Summary of Our Curriculum and Academic Design
Overall Design Our overall design is a comprehensive approach. We utilize our innovative normative culture, unique leadership and character development, business track model, and community partnerships to provide an educational experience like no other. Not only will students be captivated by their school experience but also they will learn skills to contribute to Allentown.
The Common Core State Standards Our essential goal at Executive Education Schools is to ensure that all children, regardless of life circumstances, graduate from high school ready for college and career. We believe that the implementation of Common Core State Standards (CCSS) supported by state-developed curriculum frameworks together with our own adopted curriculum guides comprise a necessary component for reaching our goal.
The Common Core State Standards challenge students by setting more rigorous and intensive objectives for learning. Teachers have the important task of teaching to grade-level expectations and encouraging career and college readiness in a way that promotes learning for ALL students. While it is the responsibility of the state to provide standards that specify the learning outcomes for public education, it is our responsibility to establish curricula and select materials aligned to the standards. We at Executive Education Schools have drafted curricular guides for English language arts, mathematics, social studies, science, and business education. We have also carefully chosen materials and resources that specifically align to the CCSS, the Next Generation Science Standards and the C3 Framework for Social Studies. Detailed information regarding PA standards and performance descriptors can be found in the SAS portal on the PDE website. http://www.pdesas.org/
The State Board adopted Common Core Standards in July 2010. Since that time, the decision was made to craft a set of PA Core Standards in English Language Arts and Mathematics, as well as for Language Arts and Literacy in History/Social Studies and Science/Technical Subjects. A group of Pennsylvania educators created a draft set of PA Core Standards. These new standards mirror the content and rigor of Common Core, but reflect the organization and design of the PA Academic Standards. Detailed information regarding standards and curricular content can be found in the SAS portal on the PDE website. Using this tool, educators can locate specific standards, anchors, and eligible content based on subject area and grade level or course. The following information as prescribed by the state of Pennsylvania is available to all in the portal:
The Curriculum Framework The Curriculum Framework specifies what is to be taught for each subject in the curriculum. In Pennsylvania, Curriculum Frameworks include Big Ideas, Concepts, Competencies, and Essential Questions aligned to Standards and Assessment Anchors and, where appropriate, Eligible Content. http://www.pdesas.org/module/sas/curriculumframework/
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Long Term Transfer Goals: Statements that identify what we want students to be able to do when they confront new challenges (both inside and outside of school). They give purpose to our learning and become the guiding force in designing instruction. Big Ideas: Declarative statements that describe concepts that transcend grade levels. Big Ideas are essential to provide focus on specific content for all students. Concepts: Describe what students should know (key knowledge) as a result of this instruction specific to grade level. Competencies: Describe what students should be able to do (key skills) as a result of this instruction, specific to grade level. Essential Questions: Questions connected to the SAS framework and are specifically linked to the Big Ideas. They should frame student inquiry, promote critical thinking, and assist in learning transfer. Eligible Content and Assessment Anchors The Assessment Anchors, as defined by the Eligible Content, are organized into cohesive blue prints, each structured with a common labeling system that can be read like an outline. This framework is organized first by Reporting Category, then by Assessment Anchor, then by Anchor Descriptor, and finally, at the greatest level of detail, by an Eligible Content statement. The format of this outline is aligned to what will be tested on the PSSA. http://www.pdesas.org/Standard/PACore
Executive Education Curricular Guides We have assembled units aligned to the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) in English Language Arts & Mathematics. These curriculum guides are intended to describe those standards that are met, in whole or in part, during each unit. The student learning objectives (SLOs) are intended to provide clear targets to assist in the daily planning of lessons. Assessments will be designed to measure how well students have met the targets, and, more important, what students still need to master. These assessment data will allow teachers to effectively determine what interventions students need as they encounter increasingly complex text.
It should be noted that some standards are not meant to be mastered in one unit. These standards reappear perhaps through several unitsbut are assessed periodically in one or more units to gauge students progression towards mastery of the topics (see sample unit outline).
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Business Education Program Our unique business education program is designed to meet the need of the Lehigh Valley. With the growth of the Neighborhood Improvement Zone, we want to be able to provide quality employees for new jobs that are made available by this growth. What makes us truly unique and different from Allentown School District are the partnerships that we have developed. These strategic partnerships align with our mission of developing college and workforce ready students. Below are some of the acquired partnerships. However, the list continues to grow. Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce St. Lukes Hospital Network American Bank Lincoln Technical Institute Lehigh Valley Faces Our Web Pro Alfonso Todd & Associates Lehigh Valley Plastics Josh Early Candies Lehigh University Muhlenberg College High School 9-12: Students decide which track best fits their personnel goals. By design this approach is to help students stayed engaged to the experiences from the 8 th grade field experience class. Each track has a component that gives students real world experiences in their interest. This is designed to give students a plan after graduation and help them contribute to the Allentown community. Students in grades 9-11 stay engaged in their track by the use of guest speakers, field visits, and work completion programs. Students are expected to log and document hours and experiences during the course of the year. Students in 12 th grade will complete an internship program to provide an opportunity to learn about their field of interest. This opportunity provides on-the-job training and provides the information for future career decisions.
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Work Force Ready College Prep Entrepreneurship Financial Foundations Business Administration Entrepreneurship & Small Business Management Advanced Computer Applications Marketing Marketing Accounting 1 Accounting 1 Accounting 1 Intro to Information Systems & Networking Accounting 2 Consumer Law & Ethics Work Education Senior Internship Mentorship Program Students Select two of the following as art credits Students Select two of the following as art credits Students Select two of the following as art credits Art Appreciation Art Appreciation Art Appreciation Studio Art 1 Studio Art 1 Studio Art 1 Digital Photography Digital Photography Digital Photography Advertising Art Advertising Art Advertising Art POST SECONDARY SUCCESS
Graduation Requirements Each EEACS High School student must carry a full schedule each year in order to be classified as a full time student. In exceptional cases, a student may be allowed to carry fewer courses with the approval of the high school principal. Students that complete identified course work will earn college credits. EEACS High School has a partnership with a local college awards credits for certain courses. This supports students transition on to college or other post secondary options.
Discipline EEACS Graduation Minimum Requirements per Discipline Suggested College Admission Requirements English 4 Credits 4 Years Social Studies 4 Credits 2-4 Years Mathematics 3 Credits 3-4 Years Science 3 Credits 2-4 Years World Language No Requirement 2-4 Years Health 0.5 Credit
Physical Education
1.5 Credits
Arts or Humanities 2.0 Credit 1-4 Years BCIT 3.0 Credits
Total
21.0 Credits
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Additional Graduation Requirements
Students will complete a Graduation Project during their senior year. The purpose of the project is to assure that students are able to apply, analyze, synthesize, and evaluate information and communicate significant knowledge and understanding. Achieving a proficient level in Biology, Literature and Algebra 1on the Pennsylvania Keystone Exams. A student who satisfactorily completes a special education program developed by an Individualized Education Program team shall be granted and issued a regular high school diploma. Students with an Individualized Education Program must also submit a Transition Plan and a Responsible Plan for the Future as part of the IEP.
College Admission Requirements
Minimum graduation requirements should not be confused with college admission requirements. District graduation requirements may not fulfill entrance requirements for all colleges. It is imperative that students review the specific entrance requirements for the colleges on their personal application list. Students planning to attend college after graduation should work closely with their guidance counselor in selecting courses each year. Colleges generally review the following criteria to determine admission status to their school:
Grades achieved in College Prep Courses SAT/ACT Scores Letter(s) of Recommendation Personal Writing Sample/Essay Grades in All Courses Class Rank
Class Rank Class rank is computed at the close of each school year. It includes all students and all graded courses, 9 through 12. Pass/fail courses are not included. The class rank index score, as reported on the transcript, is a weighted ranking. Class rank will be determined by class rank index score, which includes both the level of performance (GPA) and course load. Taking the higher number of credits, along with taking higher-level courses (AP, Honors) will contribute to a higher-class rank index score.
An advisory class rank index score will be issued when a student enters EEACS High School from another school or from home school instruction. Until the student is enrolled in EEACS High School for four consecutive semesters, he/she will be issued an advisory class rank index score. An advisory class rank index score can be used when applying to college.
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Distinguished Honor Roll To be eligible for Distinguished Honor Roll status, a student must obtain an overall grade point average of 3.6. No student who receives a grade of D in any subject is eligible for Distinguished Honor Roll.
Honor Roll To be eligible for Honor Roll status, a student must obtain an overall grade point average of 3.2 - 3.59. No student who receives a grade of D in any subject is eligible for Honor Roll status.
Valedictorian/Salutatorian The Valedictorian and Salutatorian of the graduating senior class are selected at the conclusion of the third marking period. The Valedictorian is the student with the highest rank in the senior class. The Salutatorian is the student with the second highest rank. The Valedictorian and the Salutatorian will have the distinct honor of leading the processional of graduates and delivering a speech at the commencement program.
The Quality Point Total used to determine the Valedictorian and Salutatorian will be calculated using the final course grades earned as a freshman, sophomore and junior in addition to all quarter grades from marking periods one, two, and three earned during the senior year.
Grading System Students are evaluated using a Criterion-Referenced Alpha Grading System consisting of four Marking Period Grades and a Final Exam Grade in full year, 1.0 credit, courses. These five grades are combined to determine the Final Course Grade.
Grade Point Average Grade Point Average (GPA) is a numerical representation of the Alpha Grading System. The EEACS GPA System employs a non-weighted scale. All EEACS courses are challenging and common core cross-walked, thus students ALL students are exposed to the most challenging curriculum EEACS offers. The Table below describes the non-weighted scale for each Final Course Grade and Course Level. Grade Point Average is calculated by dividing Cumulative Quality Points by the Credits Attempted.
Earned Grade Non-Weighted Courses A 4.00 A- 3.67 B+ 3.33 B 3.00 B- 2.67 C+ 2.33 C 2.00 C- 1.67 D+ 1.33 D 1.00 D- 0.67
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F 0.00
Class Rank Class rank is a numerical representation of the academic standing for a student attending EEACS. It represents both quality and quantity of work completed during a students academic career in grades nine through twelve. Calculation of Class Rank is determined by total earned quality points; not Grade Point Average. Quality Points are calculated by multiplying the Grade Value [from the Table above] by the Credits.
Cumulative GPA and Class rank will be calculated at the following times: Grade 12 Mid-year and End of the Year Grade 11 End of the Year Grade 10 End of the Year Grade 9 End of the Year
Learning Support Program
EEACS operates a Learning Support Program to meet the needs of identified exceptional students at the secondary level. Students who participate in this program work closely with their guidance counselor and special education teacher when selecting courses each year. Placement in this program for special instruction is based on the needs of each student as specified in his/her Individualized Education Plan (IEP). Students enrolled in special education programs are offered opportunities to participate in all departments course offerings on an equal basis with non-exceptional students. Specific program and course scheduling information is provided by the IEP Team at the time of Course Selection
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Course Descriptions
Art
ADVERTISING ART This course will give students a foundation in the use of several graphic applications. Emphasis will be on the use of Adobe Photoshop for the manipulation of images and creation of special text effects. Scanners and digital cameras will be used to input images. The course will introduce the students to different aspects of advertising design. Communication, page layout, logo design, comprehensive art and package design will be explored.
ART APPRECIATION Art Appreciation A is an enjoyable online class that guides you through a standards-aligned art textbook. Areas of study include: Creating and Understanding Art; Art of Early Civilizations; and Art of Rising Civilizations. It consists of three units, each containing several lessons. Each week, you will read an online lesson and complete a homework assignment and quiz. The material in your lessons, homework assignments, and quizzes will prepare you for the unit and final exams. DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY Photography develops students understanding of the photo arts. Emphasis is placed on students conceptual growth and techniques in lighting, composition, print development, and alternative processes that include digital color and computer manipulations. The role of photography in the information age, commercial and digital photo applications, and the historical influences of fine art photographers are investigated.
STUDIO ART Is an entry-level course for the High School Visual Art curriculum. It is designed to provide an overview and introduction to Visual Arts through the use of a variety of art tools and materials. With an emphasis on studio production, this course is designed to develop higher-level thinking, art-related technology skill, art criticism, art history, and aesthetics.
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Business & Informational Technology
ACCOUNTING 1 In Accounting 1, students will acquire an understanding of basic accounting principles and procedures used in daily business operations. Simulated office experiences are provided to help the student understand the accounting cycle. This course is designed to prepare students to enter the workforce after graduation or attend a community or four-year college to major in business and finance. Also, students will be introduced to computerized accounting.
ACCOUNTING 2 Accounting 2 builds on basic principles learned in Accounting I. In addition to a review of the basic procedures of manual accounting systems, the computer is used extensively for accounts receivable, accounts payable and general ledger accounting. Peachtree Accounting and Microsoft Excel will be used to complete accounting problems. Emphasis is placed on the analysis of accounting data by managers and others involved in making day-to-day business decisions.
ADVANCED COMPUTER APPLICATIONS Advanced Computer Applications is an opportunity for those students who have previously taken Computer Applications to gain a further understanding of advanced word processing, spreadsheets, databases, presentation software, desktop publishing, and Internet safety applications.
BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION This course is designed to present up-to-date, realistic information about American business to all students but especially those who are considering a Business major. Some of the topics covered include business organization, financial resources, international business, the stock market, entrepreneurship, labor/management relations, banking services, and legal regulations. Resource people, exploratory projects, and videos are used to reinforce the ideas and concepts presented in this course. Students may visit a successful business operation.
CONSUMER LAW & ETHICS Consumer Law is designed to cover the principles of law relating to business transactions. Primary emphasis is on business ethics, contracts, the sale of goods, employment law, the forms of business organizations, corporate finance, and related law. The objective is to develop a well-informed person who will understand more clearly the personal duties and obligations involved in business.
ENTREPRENEURSHIP & SMALL BUSINESS MANAGEMENT This course offers students the exciting opportunity to examine and explore the prospects of starting their own businesses. This course is designed around the business plan. It examines how to formulate business ideas, select a location, determine a legal form of organization, acquire financing, find a market, work with personnel, and establish a budget. Through field projects and meeting real entrepreneurs, students examine the entrepreneurial culture in a market economy. Students complete a personalized business plan.
FINANCIAL FOUNDATIONS
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This course focuses on the fundamental skills related to personal finance and financial planning, financial literacy, as well as understanding money, wealth, and credit/debt. The course integrates financial concepts related to authentic, personal financial planning with problem solving, planning, and research skills.
INTRO TO INFORMATION SYSTEMS & NETWORKING Intro to Information Systems & Networking provides students with the opportunity to develop professional computer and technology skills in a project-oriented and student- centered environment. Working independently or in teams, students apply problem-solving, decision-making, creative-thinking, and communication skills to relevant, real-life situations through a series of software. Instruction in current and emerging information technology includes operating systems, networking and hardware principles, document preparation, presentation tools, spreadsheet analysis and charts preparation, relational database management, technical writing, desktop publishing, copyright issues, and basic web page design. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to apply technology to analyze and solve problems and to complete technology tasks efficiently and effectively. Upon successful completion of Information Systems, students may elect to obtain industry- recognized professional certification by taking the Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) exams.
MARKETING This introductory course provides students with a working knowledge of the fundamental concepts of marketing. Students explore the process of planning and executing the development, pricing, promotion, and distribution of ideas, goods, and services. Students develop a marketing plan for a product or service of their choice. Students will gain hands- on experience using a virtual business simulation to reinforce concepts covered in class.
English Language Arts
9 th GRADE COLLEGE READY ENGLISH Grade 9 This course is designed for students who are prepared for a rigorous study of the elements of fiction, drama, and poetry. The units are arranged by themes, which help students make connections between the texts. Students have opportunities to read a variety of texts in and outside the classroom and continue to develop vocabulary for understanding and to improve their writing. Students continue to develop their writing skills by writing for different purposes and audiences as well as by using other sources to support their ideas. English I students are encouraged to be independent readers and participate in classroom discussions and activities. English I moves at a brisk pace, and students are expected to complete extensive readings outside the classroom.
10 th GRADE COLLEGE READY LITURATURE Grade 10
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In this course students examine literary works by American authors and writers of the American tradition from the 16th century to the present. This course is divided into thematic units so that students can make connections to ideas, concepts, and texts. Students participate in activities that encourage lifelong literacy habits such as independent reading, critical reading of fiction and nonfiction texts, writing for a variety of purposes and audiences and continuing to improve style and control of writing conventions. Students complete a research unit during which they develop a research question, gather information, and write a research paper. American Literature moves at a rapid pace and students are expected to complete extensive readings and writing assignments outside the classroom.
ENGLISH 1 ESL Grade 9-12 Entering level students engage in listening, speaking, reading, and writing English through an integrated language arts curriculum using Level 1 core curriculum materials for English Language Acquisition (ELA), literature, and other supplemental materials. Building both on their prior knowledge and on newly introduced material, they prepare to enter academic content classes. They become familiar with the culture and structure of an American high school and the community. Placement is made following assessment by the ESL Representative.
ENGLISH 2 ESL Grade 9-12 Beginning level students continue to engage in listening, speaking, reading, and writing English using Level 2 core curriculum materials for ELA, literature, and other supplemental materials. Using an integrated approach to language study, students increase their vocabulary and understanding of the structure of English. Basic Interpersonal Communication Skills (BICS) are developed and groundwork is laid for Cognitive Academic Language Proficiency (CALP). Placement in this course is made following assessment by the ESL representative.
ENGLISH 3 ESL Grade 9-12 Developing level students continue to engage in listening, speaking, reading, and writing English using Level 3 core curriculum materials for ELA, literature, and other supplemental materials. Using an integrated approach to language study, students practice their listening and speaking skills and study the structure of the English language. BICS are exercised and instruction in CALPS is expanded. Students may be recommended for exit from the ESL program after meeting established criteria at the end of this course.
ENGLISH 4 ESL Grade 9-12 This top-level course is designed for students who are expanding their English language acquisition towards full proficiency. Writing portfolios are created to show proficiency in focus, content, development, organization and style. Intense Instruction is given in grammar, usage, spelling, and punctuation. Reading selections are modeled after state tests and are assessed through similar comprehension, interpretation, and analysis questions. Practice with multiple choice and open- ended items is included.
11 th GRADE COLLEGE READY WORLD LITERATURE
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Grade 11 In this course students explore a variety of texts and authors from around the globe, from antiquity to modern times. Students study the literature by examining common themes between the texts from ancient times to the present and from cultures around the world. Students participate in activities that promote life long literacy habits such as independent reading, critical reading of fiction and non-fiction texts, writing for a variety of purposes and audiences and the continuing improvement of style and control in writing conventions. Students use literary analysis skills to make deeper and broader connections between what they think, read, and communicate in writing and/or speaking. The World Literature Honors course is designed to challenge students with extensive independent reading, writing, and thinking and through a focus on the quality of their written work. Prerequisite: A grade of B or better in 10th grade English and the recommendation of the current English teacher.
12 th GRADE COLLEGE READY LITERATURE FOR CHANGE Grade 12 In this course, reading, writing, speaking, and listening are focused around the big idea of mastering purposeful and independent expression. Instruction will center on an essential question: How can individuals make the greatest difference in improving the lives of others? Students read from, and write to, informational text as well as classic and contemporary literature. Students engage in class discussions involving the informational text and literature to interpret diverse perspectives. Students will address how individuals can make the greatest difference in improving the lives of others. Key outcomes include analyzing the impact of the authors choices; evaluating how words and phrases shape meaning and tone in texts; distinguishing claims from alternate or opposing claims; developing claims and counterclaims fairly and thoroughly; creating a smooth progression of experiences or events using a variety of techniques to sequence events so that they build on one another to create a coherent whole and build toward a particular tone and outcome; and conducting short as well as more sustained research projects to answer a question or solve a problem. Foreign Language EEACS Foreign Language courses allow students to study a language for several years so that the language can be used as another learning tool. The language being taught will be the language of the classroom. Beyond the expected learning of writing and speaking the language, students learn how people live in other parts of the world.
MANDARIN 1 Grade 9,10 This course reviews basic grammar concepts, develops communication skills, and introduces increasingly more complex vocabulary and structures. Katakana, the system of writing words from the West is introduced. Mandarin culture and a brief overview of Mandarin history are also introduced.
MANDARIN 2 Grade 10,11,12 This second level course introduces increasingly more complex sentence structures, vocabulary, idiomatic expressions, adjective/ verb conjugations, and verb tenses. More emphasis is placed upon reading and writing of Kanji, the writing system using characters
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from Chinese language. Students are strongly encouraged to use the spoken language in daily conversation in class. Plain or informal forms of Mandarin expressions are emphasized so that students can communicate with peers. Prerequisite: Successful completion of Mandarin 1
MANDARIN 3 Grade 11,12 As a continuation of Mandarin Chinese 2, this course is designed to enhance students' communication skills. Grammatical concepts are enforced through composition writing, summaries and creative writing projects. This course focuses on reading and writing on a higher level. Students will continue to study the Chinese culture to enrich understanding and generate interest in learning the language. Prerequisite: Successful completion of Mandarin 2
SPANISH 1 Grade 9,10 Spanish I is the first course of a recommended two or three year sequence. It is designed to develop the fundamental language skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing. The study of vocabulary and grammar is presented in context, along with the culture of Spanish- speaking people. Prerequisite: None
SPANISH II Grade 10,11,12 Students reinforce and develop the basic skills mastered in Spanish I. They communicate using more complex sentence structures, including the use of past tenses and commands. Students increase their vocabulary through the study of thematic units including: animals, actions, parts of the body, musical instruments, emotions, food, clothing, and nationalities. Students develop creative expressions through free discussion and by composing dialogues and short essays using the grammar and vocabulary studied. Appreciation of the Hispanic culture is further developed, particularly through the study of holidays celebrated in the Spanish-speaking world. Prerequisite: Spanish I (a C average or better is highly recommended)
SPANISH III Grade 11,12 Students gain a better understanding of the Spanish language with the introduction of advanced grammatical structures. Students use Spanish verb tenses to discuss events that occur in the past, present, and future. Students knowledge of vocabulary is strengthened through thematic units that high- light household chores, food, sporting events, and city destinations. Students employ both grammatical structures and vocabulary to participate in a variety of creative writing assignments and skits that emphasize student self-expression. Students awareness of Hispanic culture is enhanced through numerous short stories by
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Hispanic authors. Prerequisite: Spanish II (a C average or better is highly recommended)
HEALTH, PHYSICAL EDUCATION & WELLNESS The Health and Physical Education department has planned courses for each grade level. Satisfactory completion of these courses is a graduation requirement.
HEALTH EDUCATION In the presentation of the health/wellness units of study, it is the goal of the health/physical education staff to satisfy the physical, mental, social, emotional, and intellectual needs of students through the development of acceptable attitudes, concepts, and critical thinking skills.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION The physical education course of study has been developed to provide a varied and safe experience for students. Students are given a chance to experience individual, dual, and team activities, a variety of fitness activities, recreational and leisure time activities, as well as dance and rhythmic activities.
WELLNESS Grade 9 Health and physical education instruction is combined into this coeducational wellness course and is provided for all students in grade nine six times per cycle. The course includes classroom study of nutrition, fitness, cardiovascular diseases, harmful substances, cultural diversity, and tolerance. Instruction focuses on learning self-responsibility and includes community and societal issues. The course is designed to develop the whole student through physical and recreational activities with an emphasis on anaerobic and aerobic activities, problem solving, cooperative activities, and fitness activities. Health instruction is an integral part of the 9th grade coeducational wellness course. Students in the Transitional Health course participate in the general physical education program in combination with transitional level health education classes. The transitional health course promotes students self responsibility for personal health as it explores topics such as harmful substances, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and nutrition. Students enrolled in
TENTH GRADE HEALTH Grade 10 Coeducational health is provided two times per cycle for all students in 10th grade. This course continues themes taught in 9th grade Wellness and explores topics in mental and emotional health, sexuality, and first aid. A grade of a B or better in Academic Health is recommended.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION Grades 10 One semester of this year long course is designed to provide students with an advanced program of team sports and an introduction to lifetime activities. Fitness activities continue to be emphasized. This semester provides a basis for making a knowledgeable selection of physical education activities in grades 11 and 12.
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PHYSICAL EDUCATION 11 & 12 Grades 11,12 This coeducational physical education program includes electives in individual/dual activities, fitness activities, rhythmic activities, and team activities. Students have an opportunity to select units of study within these four major groups. The variety of units enables students to acquire the knowledge and skills to develop and maintain a healthy lifestyle and encourages students to pursue these activities beyond graduation.
MATHEMATICS
ALGEBRA I Grades 9, 10 Algebra I is designed to develop organized, logical thinking processes. Students review integers and their computation. They explore linear equations (in depth) by solving, graphing, and writing linear equations. Students are introduced to systems of linear equations, exponents, and quadratic equations. Problem solving techniques are emphasized. The graphing calculator is used to support concepts explored. All students complete at least two projects supporting the material studied.
ALGEBRA II Grades 10, 11, 12 Students study the same core topics as Algebra II, but with more emphasis on the development of the foundations of calculus. Students explore additional topics in exponential functions, polynomial functions, and counting methods as time permits. Students work in cooperative groups to solve real world problems. Communication of mathematical topics is stressed. The graphing calculator is used to help students understand the concepts. Students may borrow a graphing calculator from the department. At least four projects are assigned covering topics studied in class.
ALGEBRA III Grades 11, 12 This course reviews and extends the concepts from Algebra II to support the future study of Pre Calculus. Students use graphing utilities to examine functions and their inverses, trigonometric functions and their graphs, identities, formulas, equations, and the solving of right angles. The course also features preparation for the mathematics portion of the SAT. Graphing calculators are required. Students may borrow a graphing calculator from the department. Prerequisite: Algebra II and Geometry
GEOMETRY Grades 9, 10 Students study the concepts of deductive reasoning through proofs as well as triangles, quadrilaterals, similarity, circles, area and volume, and use of Geometers Sketchpad, and non Euclidean geometry. Students also explore transformational geometry if time permits. At least four projects are assigned to support the material studied.
SCIENCE
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BIOLOGY I Grade 9 This course presents a challenging study of the interactions between the various life forms and their physical environments. Students investigate topics such as the characteristics of life, cells from a biochemical viewpoint, organ systems, developmental embryology, heredity, genetics, biotechnology, the diversity of living things, and relationships in the environment. Laboratory work is designed to develop investigative and higher order thinking skills.
CHEMISTRY Grades 10, 11 Students enrolling in chemistry acquire analytic concepts and laboratory skills. Concepts of chemistry are investigated in the laboratory and in the classroom through lecture recitation, individualized learning materials, and independent study. Areas of investigation include the mole concept as it applies to chemical composition and chemical equations, the periodic law, gas laws, atomic and molecular structure, the solution process, and acid and base problems. Students in academic chemistry are required to complete a laboratory portfolio. It is recommended that students who enroll in this course have access to a scientific calculator.
EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE Grades 10, 11, 12 Earth and Space Science is designed for students to investigate the practical aspects of such topics such as weather, astronomy, minerals and rocks, physical and chemical properties of matter, geologic time, and surface features of the earth. It incorporates multiple lab experiences. Students are expected to prepare formal lab reports and give presentations of experimental results. Earth and Space Science is recommended as a second science course for students who are not planning to attend college.
PHYSICS Grades 11, 12 The major goal for this course is to enable students to study the physical laws under which man exists. Through classroom and laboratory experiences and experiments, students acquire the ability to observe and interpret scientific phenomena. The students who participate in this course investigate topics such as motion, energy, heat, waves, electricity and magnetism, the atom and the nucleus. Primary emphasis is placed upon the development of a conceptual understanding of physical phenomena. Techniques and skills are expanded through a study of environmental qualities. An independent research unit is also part of this course.
SOCIAL STUDIES
WORLD STUDIES Grade 9 World Cultures Academic is based on the unifying theme of globalization as well as the study of government, religion, and economics in relation to the history and culture of
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modern world societies. Students utilize these cultural themes to understand the development and interaction of civilizations around the world. Emphasis is also placed on the impact of these civilizations on the rest of the world as well as the worlds impact on their cultures. This course relies on a regional study of the world, after introductions to globalization and the themes of culture, to include Europe, Russia, China, Japan, India, the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America. While exploring these regions, students are actively engaged in student-centered activities to analyze, interpret, and evaluate the history and culture of a region and its impact on the world.
20TH CENTURY AMERICAN CULTURE Grade 10 This course is a study of 20th century American History with an emphasis on the American Culture. It begins with the events surrounding the turn of the 20th century and continues through the present, focusing on how these events influenced our culture. Course requirements include essays, debates, oral and written presentations, and problem solving assignments from a variety of sources.
CONTEMPORARY UNITED STATES AND WORLD HISTORY Grade 11, 12 Students study the major events and trends that shaped the modern world from the end of World War II through the modern day. Students will develop an understanding of current world issues, focusing on the role played by the United States, and relate them to their historical, geographical, political, economic and cultural contexts. In addition, students will consider multiple perspectives in order to understand international relations.
CIVICS AND ECONOMICS Grades 11, 12 Through the study of Civics and Economics, students will acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to become responsible and effective citizens in the United States. Students will gain a practical understanding of economics and how it affects their lives as consumers in an interdependent world. When studying the political and economic systems, students will become aware of their rights and responsibilities and put this information into practice. As informed decision- makers, students will apply acquired knowledge to real life experiences.
Transition Course Work
WORK EDUCATION Grade 12 This course is designed to provide junior and senior students with the opportunity to learn about the world of work by earning school credit and income at the same time. Students are assigned to one a partnering organization and assigned to an entry-level position. Work Education provides on the job training and provides the information for future career decisions. Students are responsible for turning in weekly time sheets, weekly job logs, and completing general related work education assignments. Upon successful completion of this program students are employed by the partnering organization. SENIOR INTERNSHIP Grade 12
Executive Education Schools
Student in the Senior Internship Program are assigned to partnering organizations for the school year. Students receive hands on training in a multitude of business functions within each organization. They complete activities that provide insight into the comprehensive functions of a business.
MENTORSHIP PROGRAM Grade 12 This course is designed to provide students with the opportunity to stimulate their career interest in a selected business. Students are partnered with a mentor that is a business owner in the students business of interest. Students will also enhance and apply the instructional competencies learned in the classroom with the internship experience. Students will be able to develop human relations skills, communications and employability skills needed to secure a position in the business environment.