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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
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 - 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
K-14
15
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.
K-15
16
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.
K-16
17
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
K-17
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