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SUSSEX PREPARATORY

ACADEMY

Course Selection Handbook

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State of Delaware Law for a Diploma

No public school student shall be granted a State of Delaware Diploma unless such student shall have successfully completed a

minimum of 24 credits in order to graduate including: 4 credits in English/language arts, 4 credits in mathematics, 3 credits in

science, 3 credits in social studies, 2 credits in world language, 1 credit in physical education, 1/2 credit in health, 3 credits in a

career pathway, and 3 1/2 credits in elective courses.

SUSSEX PREPARATORYACADEMY Credit Requirements

The curriculums for all required courses have been developed to meet State of Delaware Content Standards for English,

mathematics, social studies, and science. Sussex Preparatory Academy believes in high expectations and building bridges to

allow students to reach those expectations. The curriculum at Sussex Preparatory Academy incorporates research-based best

practices which are known to help students achieve their full potential and to do their personal best.

SUSSEX PREPARATORYACADEMY Graduation Requirements

Includes Delaware Department of Education Requirements Minimum of 26 credits required

English 4.0 credits

Mathematics 4.0 credits

Science 4.0 credits

History 2.0 credits

Social Studies 2.0 credits

Foreign Language (Spanish) 3.0 credits

Physical Education 1.0 credits

Health 0.5 credits

Career Pathway 3.0 credits

Electives 3.5 credits

Drivers Education 0.25 credits

Total: 27.25 credits

Seniors who successfully complete the minimum of 27 credits that include the above courses are eligible for graduation and will receive a diploma. At least 5 credits must be completed during the senior year.

Community Service

Students must graduate with community service. Community service hours must benefit the Sussex community. Students

complete a minimum of 10 service hours per year.

Granting Credit

Granting course credit to a student requires a passing final grade and the satisfactory completion of all major course

requirements. In addition, students are required to attend at least 95% of the class meetings. At the beginning of each course,

teachers will provide students with a course syllabus which includes a written list of all major requirements. Parents will be

expected to review the syllabus with their student and return a signed copy to the teacher.

SUSSEX PREPARATORYACADEMY Grading Policy

Academic work at Sussex Preparatory Academy will be largely project-based and expectations for grading will be outlined to

students through rubrics and model papers. The following grading scale will be in effect.

A – Excels beyond standards for proficiency 93-100

B – Meets standards for proficiency 85-92

C – Approaching standards for proficiency 77 -84

D – Below standards for proficiency 70-76

F – Far below standards for proficiency below 70

I – Incomplete work which must be completed (no credit)

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Sussex Preparatory Academy Educational Program ENGLISH

Course Title Credit Required/ Elective Prerequisite

Survey of Literature 1.0 Required None

World Literature 1.0 Required Survey of Literature

American Literature 1.0 Required World Literature

European Literature 1.0 Required American Literature

Speech and Multimedia

Presentation

1.0 Elective None

Creative Writing 0.5 Elective None

Journalism 0.5 Elective None

Digital Video Productions 0.5 Elective None

Career Communications 0.5 Elective None

Virtual Enterprise 0.5 Elective None

Media Arts 0.5 Elective None

Web Design 0.5 Elective None

Print Media 0.5 Elective None

MATHEMTICS 4 high school credits required

Algebra I 1.0 Required Pre-Algebra

Geometry 1.0 Required Algebra I

Algebra II 1.0 Required Geometry

Pre-Calculus 1.0 Required Algebra II

BC Calculus 1.0 Required Pre-Calculus

Statistics 1.0 Required None

Finite Math 1.0 Elective None

Discrete Math 1.0 Elective None

Ordinary Differential Equations 1.0 Elective None

Elementary Linear Algebra 1.0 Elective None

SOCIAL STUDIES Geography and Civics 1.0 Required None

Economics 1.0 Required Geography and Civics

US History 1.0 Required Economics

World History 1.0 Required World History

SCIENCE Earth/Physical Science 1.0 Required None

Life Sciences 1.0 Required Earth/Physical Science

Chemistry/Physics 1.0 Required Life Sciences

WORLD LANGUAGE Spanish I 1.0 Required None

Spanish II 1.0 Required Spanish I

Spanish III 1.0 Elective Spanish II

Spanish IV 1.0 Elective Spanish III

VISUAL & PERFORMING ARTS Theatre & Production 0.5 Elective None

Glee Club (Chorus) 1.0 Elective None

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Concert Band 1.0 Elective None

Introduction to Art I 1.0 Elective None

Introduction to Art II 1.0 Elective None

Physical Education/Health/Driver’s Education Physical Education 1.0 Required None

Health 0.5 Required None

Driver’s Education 0.25 Required None

PATHWAYS Art Communications Language Mathematics

Art Elective Speech and Multimedia

Presentation

Spanish III Finite Math

Visual Arts SL Creative Writing Spanish IV Discrete Math

Visual Arts SL Journalism Spanish Culture Ordinary Differential

Equations

Digital Video

Productions

Elementary Linear

Algebra

Career Communications

Virtual Enterprise

Media Arts

Web Design

Print Media

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Humanities Student with Communications Pathway

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Grade 10th

Grade IB Groups 11th

Grade 12th

Grade Survey of Literature World Literature 1 English HL

American

Literature

English HL

European Literature

Spanish I - Honors Spanish II - Honors 2 Spanish III HL Spanish IV HL

Civics/Geography Economics 3 History HL

United States

History

History HL

Modern World 20th

Century History

Earth & Physical

Sciences

Biology 4 Chemistry SL Physics SL

Algebra I

or Geometry

Geometry

or Algebra II 5 Math Studies/Math

SL

Algebra II

or Pre-Cal/ Trig

Math Studies/Math SL

Pre-Cal/ Trig

or BC Calculus

Speech and

Multimedia

Presentation

Elective 6 Career

Communications

Print Media

Elective

Physical Education Physical Education Theory of

Knowledge

Theory of

Knowledge Health Driver’s Education

Crew1 Crew Crew Crew

Elective Elective Elective IB Exam Preparation

1 Student advisory course specific to Expeditionary Learning that provides an opportunity for mentoring, team

building and collaboration for community service opportunities.

Mathematics/ Science Student with Mathematics Pathway

9th

Grade 10th

Grade IB Groups 11th

Grade 12th

Grade Survey of Literature World Literature 1 English HL

American Literature

English HL

European Literature

Spanish I Spanish II

2

Spanish III SL Spanish IV SL

(Optional)

Civics/Geography Economics 3 History SL

United States

History

History SL

Modern World 20th

Century History

Earth & Physical

Sciences

Biology 4 Chemistry HL Physics HL

Algebra II Pre-Calculus/

Trigonometry 5 Math HL

BC

Calculus/Statistics

Math HL

BC Calculus/Statistics

Finite Math Elective 6 Discrete Math Ordinary Differential

Equation Elective

Physical Education Physical Education Theory of

Knowledge

Theory of Knowledge

Health Driver’s Education

Crew Crew Crew Crew

Elective Speech and Multimedia

Presentation

Elective IB Exam Preparation

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ENGLISH - Course Descriptions English 9 - Survey of Literature

The course integrates writing, vocabulary, spelling, grammar and speaking through an intense in-depth analytical

and interdisciplinary approach to literature. Weekly emphasis will be placed on the mastering of SAT vocabulary

and strategies for answering antonym, and sentence completion questions. This course will provide students with a

survey of literature emphasizing the genres of short story, the novel and poetry. Writing assignments will provide

intensive practices in comparison/contrast essay, point-of-view essay and characterization comparison as they apply

to the assigned literature. All skills will be taught from an analytical and evaluative level in order to assist students

in becoming more independent and creative in their thinking.

English 10 – World Literature

Students will continue to build the reading, writing, speaking, listening, observing, and using of technology that was

started during the freshman year. The course will include a diverse reading list of print and non-print literary,

informational, persuasive, and practical ―texts.‖ Students will use the writing process to write a variety of forms for

multiple audiences and purposes. A strong focus is placed on the informational form for the purpose of recognizing,

using, and analyzing: author’s purpose, organization patterns, text features, and persuasive techniques. Students are

asked to make text to self, text to text, and text to world connections for the purpose of formulating and explaining

opinions. Students will make multiple presentations and collaborate on projects. Students will continue to integrate

inquiry skills and technology to communicate ideas. This course will be integrated with social studies content.

English 11 – American Literature

English 12 – European Literature

Language A1 - Higher Level, International Baccalaureate

This is a pre-university literature course in the student's native or best language. Language A1 promotes an

appreciation of literature and knowledge of the student's own culture, along with that of other societies, and

develops the student's powers of expression, both in oral and written communication. The course emphasizes the

skills involved in writing and speaking in a variety of styles and situations and offers the student the opportunity to

read 11-15 works grouped by genres. Works are chosen from a broad list of prescribed authors and works

representing different literary periods, genres, and regions in the target language, as well as literature in translation.

Communications Pathway Students will build a communications pathway by taking Speech and Multimedia Presentations

and four other 0.5 credit courses.

Speech and Multimedia Presentation

This is the study and application of the basic principles and techniques of effective oral communication. Students

deliver focused and coherent speeches that convey clear messages, using gestures, tone, and vocabulary appropriate

to the audience and purpose. Students deliver different types of oral and multi-media presentations, including

viewpoint, instructional, demonstration, informative, persuasive, and impromptu. Students use the same Standard

English conventions for oral speech that they use in their writing.

Creative Writing

Using a workshop approach to writing, students will write poetry, short stories, plays, and literary essays. Students

will design and publish the school literary magazine, including writing for the magazine as well as evaluating

writing submitted from students outside of the class. The students from the course will host a monthly coffee house

after-school as a venue for Spoken Word poetry and other student voices. This course will be taught in a project-

based, workshop format and may be taken more than once.

Journalism

Students will develop their newspaper reporting and persuasive writing abilities. Students will apply the basics of

newspaper reporting to such publications as the student newspaper, yearbook, news TV program, webpage, and

other current school publications. The class will be designed as a writing workshop where students will be

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responsible for creating assignments, writing articles, selling advertising, taking photographs, and researching other

topics of interest. This course will be taught in a project-based, workshop format and may be taken more than once.

Digital Video Productions

This course provides video basics and participation in the pre-production, production, and post-production processes

of filmmaking. This course includes camera operation, audio recording, composition, scriptwriting, storyboarding,

editing, distribution, and evaluation of films. Film analysis will include story elements, design, location, lighting

techniques, special effects, and more. Student will analyze films of various genres and complete various projects

including commercials, PSAs, music videos, indies, trailers, documentaries, shorts, instructional videos, and

community service projects.

Career Communications

This course will prepare students to explore the world of work by incorporating two unique aspects of business.

Using several computer applications such as MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Publisher, students learn to develop

their desktop publishing skills and creativity. Students also participate in a six-week, cross-age tutoring program

during this course. They tutor elementary students in reading, math and writing skills.

Virtual Enterprise

Students are introduced to the global economy and the dynamics of business in a changing world through the

creation of a virtual business enterprise. Students will develop an understanding of economic principles and theories.

Students working in departmentalized groups and in partnership with a local business will understand the role of the

individual within an economic structure and will be encouraged to recognize and interpret economic happenings in

our society. A simulation on the Internet is used for a realistic approach.

Media Arts

In this course, we will further explore the world of graphic design and advertising, building digital skills in both

Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. Looking at the way media affects our everyday lives- from news to entertainment,

we will create projects that express our ideas about being a consumer, being a teenager, and the power we have

when communicating our voice locally and globally.

Web Design

Web Design is a business course that provides instruction in the principles of web design using HTML/XHTML and

current/emerging software programs. Areas of instruction include audience analysis, hierarchy layout and design

techniques, software integration, and publishing. Instructional strategies should include peer teaching, collaborative

instruction, project-based learning activities, and school and community projects.

Print Media

Like to use the computer to draw, design, and show off your creativity? Students in this course will use various

programs to create many types of print media, such as scrapbooks, newsletters, brochures, photos, drawings, logos,

programs, and so much more. Use your creativity to produce appealing layouts while learning the technology

available to create professional looking documents. Many of the programs used are accessible from a home

computer.

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MATHEMATICS - Course Descriptions Mathematics Pathways

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Algebra I

Algebra I formalizes and extends the mathematics that students learned in the middle grades. Five critical areas

comprise Algebra I: Relations and Functions; Linear Equations and Inequalities; Quadratic and Nonlinear

Equations; Systems of Equations and Inequalities; and Polynomial Expressions. The critical areas deepen and extend

understanding of linear and exponential relationships by contrasting them with each other and by applying linear

models to data that exhibit a linear trend, and students engage in methods for analyzing, solving, and using quadratic

functions. The Mathematical Practice Standards apply throughout each course and, together with the content

standards, prescribe that students experience mathematics as a coherent, useful, and logical subject that makes use of

their ability to make sense of problem situations.

Geometry

Geometry formalizes and extends students’ geometric experiences from the middle grades. Students explore more

complex geometric situations and deepen their explanations of geometric relationships, moving towards formal

mathematical arguments. Six critical areas comprise the Geometry course: Congruency and Similarity;

Measurement; Analytic Geometry; Circles; and Polyhedra. Close attention should be paid to the introductory content

for the Geometry conceptual category found in the high school CCSS. The Mathematical Practice Standards apply

throughout each course and, together with the content standards, prescribe that students experience mathematics as a

coherent, useful, and logical subject that makes use of their ability to make sense of problem situations.

Algebra II

Algebra II builds on work with linear, quadratic, and exponential functions and allows for students to extend their

repertoire of functions to include polynomial, rational, and radical functions. Students work closely with the

expressions that define the functions, and continue to expand and hone their abilities to model situations and to solve

equations, including solving quadratic equations over the set of complex numbers and solving exponential equations

using the properties of logarithms. The Mathematical Practice Standards apply throughout each course and, together

with the content standards, prescribe that students experience mathematics as a coherent, useful, and logical subject

that makes use of their ability to make sense of problem situations.

Pre-Calculus/ Trigonometry

Pre-Calculus extends the course of study in algebraic reasoning past Algebra II. The foundations of algebra and

functions developed in previous courses will be extended to new functions, including exponential and logarithmic

functions, and to higher-level sequences and series. The Mathematical Practice Standards apply throughout each

course and, together with the content standards, prescribe that students experience mathematics as a coherent, useful,

and logical subject that makes use of their ability to make sense of problem situations.

BC Calculus

Calculus BC is primarily concerned with developing the students’ understanding of the concepts of calculus and

providing 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.

The connections among these representations also are important. Topics include: (1) functions, graphs, and limits;

(2) derivatives; (3) integrals; and (4) polynomial approximations and series. Technology should be used regularly by

students and teachers to reinforce the relationships among the multiple representations of functions, to confirm

written work, to implement experimentation, and to assist in interpreting results. A comprehensive description of

this course can be found on the College Board AP Central Course Description web page at:

http://apcentral.collegeboard.com/apc/public/repository/ap-calculus-course-description.pdf.

2 For those students who select the mathematics pathway, their course of study will continue beyond the four

required mathematics courses. Students may elect to take dual enrollment courses.

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Statistics

Statistics includes the concepts and skills needed to apply statistical techniques in the decision-making process.

Topics include: (1) descriptive statistics, (2) probability, and (3) statistical inference. Practical examples based on

real experimental data are used throughout. Students plan and conduct experiments or surveys and analyze the

resulting data. The use of graphing calculators and computer programs is encouraged. The Mathematical Practice

Standards apply throughout each course and, together with the content standards, prescribe that students experience

mathematics as a coherent, useful, and logical subject that makes use of their ability to make sense of problem

situations.

Mathematics Higher Level, International Baccalaureate – Mathematics/ Science Student

Mathematics Higher Level, International Baccalaureate includes seven core topics: algebra, functions and equations,

circular functions and trigonometry, matrices, vectors, statistics and probability, and calculus. It is based on the

curriculum published by the International Baccalaureate Organization. In addition, students also must complete one

of the following four options: statistics and probability, sets, relations and groups, series and differential equations,

or discrete mathematics.

Mathematical Studies Standard Level, International Baccalaureate – Humanities Student Mathematical Studies Standard Level, International Baccalaureate includes eight core topics: introduction to the

graphic display calculator, number and algebra, sets, logic and probability, functions, geometry and trigonometry,

statistics, introductory differential calculus, and financial mathematics. It is based on the curriculum published by

the International Baccalaureate Organization.

Dual Enrollment Courses Finite Math

A study of selected algebraic topics including mathematics of finance, systems of linear equations and matrix

algebra, linear programming, properties of probability and probability distributions. Markov chains and techniques

of applied problem solving.

Discrete Math

A study of discrete models, sets, functions, logic, mathematical induction, algorithms, recursions, relations, graphs,

and trees and matrices.

Ordinary Differential Equations

The study of solutions of ordinary differential equations of first and second order using qualitative, numeric and

analytic approaches, Mathematical modeling of real life phenomena will be studied.

Elementary Linear Algebra

Systems of linear equations, matrix algebra and determinants. Vector spaces, linear dependence and independence,

basis and dimension. Linear transformations, similarity transformations and diagonalization problems. Inner product

spaces and least squares approximation. Emphasizes theory and application to other mathematics areas. Includes

computer use for analysis and solution of linear algebra problems.

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SOCIAL STUDIES - Course Descriptions

Geography and Civics

This geography course creatively challenges students to use the tools of geography to view, analyze, and understand

the world around them. In all areas, geography is a contextualized study. In this course, students will research

problems, analyze data, and suggest solutions. Civics is an overview of citizenship roles and responsibilities

designed to help students become independent thinkers and conscientious citizens. This course deals with political

trends and behavior which citizens consider to be relevant to the most pressing issues of the day.

Economics

Economics examines the allocation of resources and their uses for satisfying human needs and wants. The course

analyzes economic reasoning used by consumers, producers, savers, investors, workers, voters, and government in

making decisions. Key elements of the course include study of scarcity and economic reasoning, supply and

demand, market structures, role of government, national income determination, the role of financial institutions,

economic stabilization, and trade. The functions of government in a market economy and market structures will be

examined. The behavior of people, societies and institutions and economic thinking is integral to this course.

11th

Grade – United States

12th

Grade – Modern World 20th

Century

Higher Level - International Baccalaureate History Higher Level, International Baccalaureate promotes the understanding of the nature and diversity of history

and its methods and interpretations. It is based on the curriculum published by the International Baccalaureate

Organization. Students develop an international awareness and understanding and the ability to use and

communicate historical knowledge. The course includes one prescribed subject from a choice of three and two 20th

century world history topics from a choice of six. Regional options include Africa, the Americas, East and South

East Asia and Oceania, Europe, and South Asia and the Middle East.

History – Standard Level - International Baccalaureate History Standard Level, International Baccalaureate promotes the understanding of the nature and diversity of

history and its methods and interpretations. It is based on the curriculum published by the International

Baccalaureate Organization. Students develop an international awareness and understanding and the ability to use

and communicate historical knowledge. The course includes one prescribed subject from a choice of three and two

20th

century world history topics from a choice of six.

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SCIENCE - Course Descriptions

Earth/Physical Science

This challenging course provides students with important insights into the physical environment of the earth. An

overview of the chemical properties and the physical forces of motion that shape the earth’s features will be

investigated in a logical sequence. Emphasis will be on addressing state standards through an integrated curriculum

that relates energy, alchemy – chemistry, and the earth’s systems to the fields of geology, meteorology/climatology,

astronomy, and oceanography.

Life Sciences

In this course, students will explore the nature of science and the theory of evolution by natural selection, understand

the chemical basis of many life processes, and investigate the storage of genetic information in DNA, its

transmission and its expression during protein synthesis. Students will also investigate the application of these

topics to biotechnology. Inquiry and technology-based experiences will prepare students with the skill and

processes needed for college and/or the work environment. Laboratory work will allow the students to explore

fundamental chemical relationships and become more familiar with basic chemical laboratory techniques and

procedures.

Integrated Chemistry-Physics

Integrated Chemistry-Physics is a course focused on the following core topics: motion and energy of macroscopic

objects; chemical, electrical, mechanical and nuclear energy; properties of matter; transport of energy; magnetism;

energy production and its relationship to the environment and economy. Instruction will focus on developing

student understanding that scientific knowledge is gained from observation of natural phenomena and

experimentation by designing and conducting investigations guided by theory and by evaluating and communicating

the results of those investigations according to accepted procedures. Laboratory work will allow the students to

explore fundamental chemical relationships and become more familiar with basic chemical laboratory techniques

and procedures.

Chemistry – Higher Level – International Baccalaureate

Chemistry Higher Level, International Baccalaureate is designed to introduce students to the theories and practical

techniques involved in the composition, characterization, and transformation of substances. It is based on the

curriculum published by the International Baccalaureate Organization. As the central science, the chemical

principles investigated underpin both the physical world in which we live and all biological systems. Students study

eleven core topics: stoichiometry, atomic theory, periodicity, bonding, states of matter, energetics, kinetics,

equilibrium, acids and bases, oxidation and reduction, and organic chemistry. Students must complete additional

study in nine topics: atomic theory, periodicity, bonding, energetics, kinetics, equilibrium, acids and bases, oxidation

and reduction, and organic chemistry. Optional course topics include medicines and drugs, human biochemistry,

environmental chemistry, chemical industries, and fuels and energy. Additional options are modern analytical

chemistry and further organic chemistry.

Chemistry – Standard Level – International Baccalaureate

Chemistry Standard Level, International Baccalaureate is designed to introduce students to the theories and practical

techniques involved in the composition, characterization, and transformation of substances. It is based on the

curriculum published by the International Baccalaureate Organization. As the central science, the chemical

principles investigated underpin both the physical world in which we live and all biological systems. Students study

eleven core topics: stoichiometry, atomic theory, periodicity, bonding, states of matter, energetics, kinetics,

equilibrium, acids and bases, oxidation and reduction, and organic chemistry. Optional course topics include

medicines and drugs, human biochemistry, environmental chemistry, chemical industries, and fuels and energy.

Physics – Higher Level – International Baccalaureate

Physics Higher Level, International Baccalaureate is designed to introduce students to the laws of physics, the

experimental skills required in physics, and the social and historical aspects of physics as an evolving body of

human knowledge about nature. It is based on the curriculum published by the International Baccalaureate

Organization. Students study six topics: physics and physical measurement, mechanics, thermal physics, waves,

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electricity and magnetism, and atomic and nuclear physics. Students must complete additional study in six topics:

measurement and uncertainties, mechanics, thermal physics, wave phenomena, electromagnetism, and quantum

physics and nuclear physics. Optional course topics from which the student may only choose two include biomedical

physics, the history and development of physics, astrophysics, relativity, and optics.

Physics – Standard Level – International Baccalaureate

Physics Standard Level, International Baccalaureate is designed to introduce students to the laws of physics, the

experimental skills required in physics, and the social and historical aspects of physics as an evolving body of

human knowledge about nature. It is based on the curriculum published by the International Baccalaureate

Organization. Students study six topics: physics and physical measurement, mechanics, thermal physics, waves,

electricity and magnetism, and atomic and nuclear physics. Students must complete additional study in six topics:

measurement and uncertainties, mechanics, thermal physics, wave phenomena, electromagnetism, and quantum

physics and nuclear physics. Optional course topics from which the student may choose two include biomedical

physics, the history and development of physics, astrophysics, relativity, and optics. Further options would be

mechanics extension, quantum physics, nuclear physics, and further energy.

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WORLD LANGUAGES - Course Descriptions

Spanish I

This course is designed for students who are linguistically talented. Grammatical structures and vocabulary are

taught in a context which emphasizes communication skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing Spanish.

Levels: Honors, College Preparatory

Spanish II

In this course, students utilize the present, past and future tenses in reading, writing, listening and speaking

assignments. The focus of the class is more academic as the students are asked to focus on their reading

comprehension skills, and correct use of Spanish in oral and written assignments. Spanish is spoken by the instructor

for the majority of this class; however, grammar and more technical explanations may take place in English. Regular

vocabulary and grammar quizzes and chapter tests are given to ascertain that the students are learning the material.

Students will also be assigned homework to practice structures and vocabulary learned in class.

Levels: Honors, College Preparatory

11th

Grade - Spanish III

12th

Grade - Spanish IV

World Language – Higher Level – International Baccalaureate

World Language B Higher Level, International Baccalaureate is a world language course for students with two to

five years previous experience in learning the target language and prepares students to be successful on the

International Baccalaureate exam for the target language. It is based on the curriculum published by the International

Baccalaureate Organization. This course prepares students to use the target language appropriately in a range of

situations and contexts and for a variety of purposes and also focuses on language acquisition and development in

the four primary language skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Language skills are developed through

the study and use of a range of written and spoken material, which extends from everyday oral exchanges to literary

texts related to the target cultures. The course is further designed to promote an awareness of, and sensitivity to, the

cultures related to the language studied.

World Language – Standard Level – International Baccalaureate

World Language ab initio Standard Level, International Baccalaureate is a world language course for students with

little or no previous experience in learning the target language and is offered for twelve languages. It is based on the

curriculum published by the International Baccalaureate Organization. This course provides an opportunity for

students to further their linguistic skills by taking up a second world language or for students to learn a world

language for the first time. The course concentrates on the acquisition of language necessary for practical

communication in a variety of everyday situations and also focuses on development of the four primary language

skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing. This course further enables students to acquire a basic awareness

of the target cultures through the study of a core-syllabus and a language-specific syllabus.

Spanish Culture

This course continues to develop students’ grammatical and Spanish speaking skills through group discussions of

daily events, essays on Spanish newspaper articles, short stories and poetry in Spanish, tapes and presenting in

Spanish investigative information as a lecture to other students. The objective is to give the student the ability to talk

to native speakers with ease, knowing what to say and knowing what is being said. Spanish/Spanish-American

literature is investigated. Spanish history and customs are also investigated by students. There will be a weekly

reading of a pre-approved novel. Each chapter in the text should require approximately two weeks of study.

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VISUAL & PERFORMING ARTS - Course Descriptions

Theatre & Production

This course prepares students to actively lead and supervise in the process of designing, building, managing,

programming, drafting, and implementing the technical aspects of a production. These activities should incorporate

elements of theatre history, culture, analysis, response, creative process, and integrated studies. Additionally,

students investigate technical theatre careers then develop a plan for potential employment or further education

through audition, interview or presentation of a portfolio. Students also attend and critique theatrical productions and

volunteer to support theatre in their community.

Glee Club

Students taking performance choir will develop musicianship and specific performance skills through ensemble and

solo singing while building a high quality repertoire in the diverse styles of choral literature appropriate in difficulty

and range for the students. Students develop the ability to understand and convey the composer's intent in

performance of music. Time outside of the school day may be scheduled for rehearsals and performances. Students

are required to participate in performance opportunities outside of the school day that support and extend learning in

the classroom.

Concert Band

Concert band classes are designed to help the student progress toward the attainment of the advanced woodwind,

brass, and percussion objectives. This band offers students several performance opportunities. Performances and

rehearsals, both in and outside of the school time are required in this class. Instrumentation for the group will be at

the discretion of the instructor. Prerequisites include an audition by the instructor and attainment of intermediate

woodwind, brass, or percussion objectives.

Introduction to Art I

A survey of history from prehistoric times to the present, the course offers an introduction to analysis and evaluation

of the visual arts, with emphasis on the relationship of end product to design, technique, and cultural background.

The main purpose of the course is to gain appreciation for all art forms. Lectures are presented with the use of

slides/PowerPoint and other visual aids.

Introduction to Art II

Students will study the art, the geography and history of various cultures and produce two and/or three dimensional

works in the style of that culture. Media used could be paint, clay, papier-mâché, wood, fibers, sand, beads, etc.

Some projects could be inspired by Persian miniatures, Oaxacan sculptures, Huichol beading, African masks,

Balinese Batik, Japanese silk painting, etc.

Visual Arts – Higher Level – International Baccalaureate

Visual Arts Higher Level, International Baccalaureate provides students with the opportunities to make personal,

sociocultural and aesthetic experiences meaningful through the production and understanding of art. The course is

based on the curriculum published by the International Baccalaureate Organization. It exemplifies and encourages

an inquiring and integrated approach towards visual arts in their various historical and contemporary forms and

promotes visual and contextual knowledge of art from various cultures. The course enables students to learn about

themselves and others through individual and collaborative engagement with the visual arts. The core elements in

common to each course are introduction to art concepts, criticism and analysis, acquisition of studio technical and

media skills, and relation of art to sociocultural and historical contexts. This course is for the specialist visual arts

student with creative and imaginative abilities, who may pursue the visual arts at university or college level. It

consists of two compulsory parts: studio work—the practical exploration and artistic production; and research

workbooks—independent critical research and analysis, visual and written, in more than one culture.

Visual Arts – Standard Level – International Baccalaureate

Visual Arts Standard Level, International Baccalaureate provides students with the opportunities to make personal,

sociocultural, and aesthetic experiences meaningful through the production and understanding of art. The course is

based on the curriculum published by the International Baccalaureate Organization. It exemplifies and encourages

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an inquiring and integrated approach towards visual arts in their various historical and contemporary forms and

promotes visual and contextual knowledge of art from various cultures. The course enables students to learn about

themselves and others through individual and collaborative engagement with the visual arts. The core elements in

common to each course are introduction to art concepts, criticism and analysis, acquisition of studio technical and

media skills, and relation of art to sociocultural and historical contexts. This course is for the specialist visual arts

student with creative and imaginative abilities, who may pursue the visual arts at university or college level. It

consists of two compulsory parts: studio work—the practical exploration and artistic production; and research

workbooks—independent critical research and analysis, visual and written, in more than one culture.

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Physical Education, Health and Drivers Education

Course Descriptions

Physical Movement

Physical Movement will provide students with a study of the following:

personal health and wellness

physical activity

healthy eating

promoting safety and preventing unintentional injury and violence

promoting mental and emotional health

a tobacco-free lifestyle

an alcohol- and other drug-free lifestyle

promoting human development and family health

Through a variety of instructional strategies, students practice the development of functional advanced health

information (essential concepts); determine personal values that support health behaviors; develop group norms that

value a healthy lifestyle; develop the essential skills necessary to adopt, practice, and maintain health-enhancing

behaviors and wellness advocacy skills.

Health

Health provides students with a study of personal health, physical activity, healthy eating, promoting safety and

preventing unintentional injury and violence, promoting mental and emotional health, a tobacco-free lifestyle and an

alcohol- and other drug-free lifestyle and promoting human development and family health. Through a variety of

instructional strategies, students practice the development of functional advanced health information (essential

concepts); determine personal values that support health behaviors; develop group norms that value a healthy

lifestyle; develop the essential skills necessary to adopt, practice, and maintain health-enhancing behaviors and

wellness advocacy skills.

Drivers Education

Driver Education is course designed to teach basic fundamental maneuvers of driving. Students taking Drivers

Education must be in 10th

grade. Students must also be pursuing a regular course of study or its equivalent as

approved by the Department of Education, and must be passing at least 5 credits. Two of those credits must be

separate areas of English, mathematics, science, or social studies.

Classroom Phase: State requires a minimum of thirty (30) clock hours in the classroom.

Behind-the-Wheel Phase: State requires seven (7) clock hours of behind the wheel training and

observation.

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INTERNATIONAL BACCALAURETTE CORE

REQUIREMENTS

Course Descriptions

The Extended Essay, International Baccalaureate

The Extended Essay is 4,000 word study of a special interest topic. This affords students the opportunity to engage

in independent research while having a teacher as an advisor. The extended essay should be written in a clear,

correct and formal style appropriate to the subject from which the topic is drawn. Note: The limit includes the

introduction, body, the conclusion and any quotations. This is a mandatory component of the IB diploma.

Theory of Knowledge (TOK), International Baccalaureate Theory of Knowledge, International Baccalaureate is unique to the International Baccalaureate Organization and is

an interdisciplinary requirement intended to stimulate critical reflection on the knowledge and experience gained

inside and outside the classroom. It is based on the curriculum published by the International Baccalaureate

Organization. The 100-hour course challenges students to question the bases of knowledge, to see the consilience

between the academic disciplines, to be aware of subjective and ideological biases, and to develop the ability to

analyze evidence that is expressed in rational argument. It is a key element in encouraging appreciation of other

cultural perspectives. This is a mandatory component of the IB diploma.

Creativity, Action, Service (CAS), International Baccalaureate3

Creativity, action, service is at the heart of the IB Diploma Programme and enables students to enhance their

personal and interpersonal development though experiential learning. The three strands of CAS are as follows:

Creativity: arts, and other experiences that involve critical thinking.

Action: physical exertion contributing to a healthy lifestyle, complementing the academic work elsewhere

in the Diploma Programme

Service: an unpaid and voluntary exchange that has a learning benefit for students. The rights, dignity and

autonomy of all those involved and respected.

3 Community, action, service guide – International Baccalaureate

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