BISHOP
GUILFOYLE
CATHOLIC
HIGH SCHOOL
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
2020-2021
TABLE OF CONTENTS
HIGH SCHOOL 7 GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS ...................................................................................................... 7 YEARLY COURSE REQUIREMENTS ............................................................................................... 8 DUAL ENROLLMENT ........................................................................................................................ 12 ADVANCED PLACEMENT® ............................................................................................................. 13 ADVANCED PLACEMENT® CAPSTONE ...................................................................................... 14
HIGH SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTIONS 16
ARTS DEPARTMENT 16 2-D MULTIMEDIA DESIGN .............................................................................................................. 16 ART LAB AND THEORY .................................................................................................................... 16 ADVANCED PLACEMENT® ART HISTORY ................................................................................ 16 ADVANCED PLACEMENT® DRAWING ........................................................................................ 16 INDEPENDENT STUDY: ADVANCED PLACEMENT® DRAWING .......................................... 17 INTRODUCTION TO ART HISTORY .............................................................................................. 17 PAINTING 101 ...................................................................................................................................... 17 CONCERT BAND ................................................................................................................................. 17 ADD-ON BAND ..................................................................................................................................... 17 CHAMBER ENSEMBLE ..................................................................................................................... 18 CHORUS ................................................................................................................................................ 18 ADD-ON CHORUS ............................................................................................................................... 18 CHAMBER CHOIR .............................................................................................................................. 18 PIANO PERFORMANCE/ACCOMPANIMENT .............................................................................. 18 DRAMA APPRECIATION AND PERFORMANCE ........................................................................ 19 MUSIC THEORY .................................................................................................................................. 19 ADVANCED PLACEMENT® MUSIC THEORY ............................................................................ 19
BUSINESS DEPARTMENT 19 ACCOUNTING I ................................................................................................................................... 19 ACCOUNTING II ................................................................................................................................. 19 ADVANCED MICROCOMPUTERS .................................................................................................. 20 MULTIMEDIA/YEARBOOK .............................................................................................................. 20 HONORS WALL STREET 101: BUSINESS IN A GLOBAL SOCIETY ....................................... 20
CAREER DEVELOPMENT SERIES 20 HEALTH, WELLNESS AND DISABILITY ...................................................................................... 21 INTRODUCTION TO PUBLIC HEALTH ........................................................................................ 21 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER SYSTEMS ............................................................................... 21 INTRODUCTION TO ENGINEERING AND STEM ....................................................................... 21 FINANCIAL ACCOUNTING .............................................................................................................. 22 INTRODUCTION TO MARKETING ................................................................................................ 22
COMPUTER SCIENCE DEPARTMENT 22 ADVANCED PLACEMENT® COMPUTER SCIENCE A .............................................................. 22 ADVANCED PLACEMENT® COMPUTER SCIENCE PRINCIPLES ......................................... 22 FUNDAMENTALS OF COMPUTER SCIENCE AND CODING ................................................... 22 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER SCIENCE AND CODING ..................................................... 23 VISUAL BASIC PROGRAMMING .................................................................................................... 23
VISUAL C++ PROGRAMMING ........................................................................................................ 23
ENGLISH DEPARTMENT 23 AMERICAN LITERATURE AND COMPOSITION ........................................................................ 23 BRITISH & WORLD LITERATURE AND COMPOSITION......................................................... 23 CONNECTING CONTENT THROUGH LITERATURE ................................................................ 23 ADVANCED PLACEMENT® ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND COMPOSITION .......................... 24 ADVANCED PLACEMENT® ENGLISH LITERATURE AND COMPOSITION ....................... 24 ENGLISH LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT INSTRUCTION .......................................................... 24 EXPLORING LITERATURE/COMPOSITION ............................................................................... 24 INTRODUCTION TO LITERATURE/COMPOSITION ................................................................. 25 LITERATURE SEMINAR ................................................................................................................... 25 PUBLIC SPEAKING/JOURNALISM ................................................................................................ 25 ADVANCED PLACEMENT® RESEARCH ...................................................................................... 25 RIGHT START TO COLLEGE I AND II .......................................................................................... 25 ADVANCED PLACEMENT® SEMINAR ......................................................................................... 26
HEALTH / PHYSICAL EDUCATION 26 HEALTH and PHYSICAL EDUCATION I ....................................................................................... 26 HEALTH and PHYSICAL EDUCATION II ...................................................................................... 26
LANGUAGE DEPARTMENT 27 CHINESE I – LANGUAGE AND CULTURE .................................................................................... 27 CHINESE II – LANGUAGE AND CULTURE .................................................................................. 27 CHINESE III – LANGUAGE AND CULTURE ................................................................................ 27 CHINESE IV – LANGUAGE AND CULTURE ................................................................................. 27 EXPLORING WORLD CULTURES .................................................................................................. 28 SPANISH I ............................................................................................................................................. 28 SPANISH II ............................................................................................................................................ 28 SPANISH III .......................................................................................................................................... 28 SPANISH IV .......................................................................................................................................... 28 ADVANCED PLACEMENT® SPANISH LANGUAGE AND CULTURE..................................... 29
MATHEMATICS DEPARTMENT 29 ALGEBRA I ........................................................................................................................................... 29 ALGEBRA II ......................................................................................................................................... 29 ALGEBRA III/TRIGONOMETRY ..................................................................................................... 29 BUSINESS MATHEMATICS .............................................................................................................. 30 CALCULUS I ......................................................................................................................................... 30 ADVANCED PLACEMENT® CALCULUS AB ............................................................................... 30 ADVANCED PLACEMENT® CALCULUS BC ............................................................................... 30 COLLEGE ALGEBRA ......................................................................................................................... 30 HONORS COLLEGE PROBABILITY AND STATISTICS ............................................................ 30 GEOMETRY ......................................................................................................................................... 31 PRE-ALGEBRA .................................................................................................................................... 31 PROBABILITY AND STATISTICS ................................................................................................... 31
PROFESSOR-IN-RESIDENCE PROGRAMS 31 HONORS COLLEGE PROBABILITY AND STATISTICS ............................................................ 31 HONORS FINE ARTS: CULTURE AND VALUES ......................................................................... 32 HONORS INTRODUCTION TO ENGINEERING AND S.T.E.M. ................................................. 32
HONORS INTRODUCTION TO EXCEPTIONALITIES ............................................................... 32 HONORS RELIGION SPECIAL TOPIC: THE SACRED JOURNEY .......................................... 33 HONORS WALL STREET 101: BUSINESS IN A GLOBAL SOCIETY ....................................... 33
RELIGION DEPARTMENT 33 BIBLICAL FAITH I & II ..................................................................................................................... 33 BUILDING CATHOLIC FLUENCY .................................................................................................. 33 CATHOLIC DISCIPLESHIP .............................................................................................................. 34 CATHOLIC MINISTRY AND LEADERSHIP.................................................................................. 34 CATHOLIC MORAL THEOLOGY ................................................................................................... 34 THE CHRISTIAN LIFE ....................................................................................................................... 34 CHRISTIAN SERVICE AND FORMATION .................................................................................... 34 COMMUNITY SERVICE AND RETREAT PROGRAMS .............................................................. 34
SCIENCE DEPARTMENT 35 ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY I/LAB ........................................................................................... 35 ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY II/LAB ......................................................................................... 35 BIOLOGY/LAB ..................................................................................................................................... 35 ADVANCED PLACEMENT® BIOLOGY/LAB ................................................................................ 35 ECOLOGY/LAB ................................................................................................................................... 35 ADVANCED PLACEMENT® ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE/LAB ............................................ 36 ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY/LAB ................................................................................ 36 CHEMISTRY/LAB ............................................................................................................................... 36 ADVANCED PLACEMENT® CHEMISTRY/LAB .......................................................................... 36 FORENSIC SCIENCE/LAB ................................................................................................................. 36 MICROBIOLOGY ................................................................................................................................ 36 PHYSICS/LAB ....................................................................................................................................... 36 ADVANCED PLACEMENT® PHYSICS/LAB 1 .............................................................................. 37 ADD-ON SCIENTIFIC WRITING ..................................................................................................... 37
SOCIAL STUDIES DEPARTMENT 37 ADVANCED PLACEMENT® EUROPEAN HISTORY .................................................................. 37 PERSONAL FINANCE ........................................................................................................................ 37 PSYCHOLOGY ..................................................................................................................................... 37 ADVANCED PLACEMENT® PSYCHOLOGY ................................................................................ 37 SOCIOLOGY AND SOCIAL PROBLEMS ....................................................................................... 38 UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT/ECONOMICS ......................................................................... 38 UNITED STATES HISTORY II .......................................................................................................... 38 ADVANCED PLACEMENT® UNITED STATES HISTORY ......................................................... 38 WORLD HISTORY .............................................................................................................................. 39 ADVANCED PLACEMENT® WORLD HISTORY ......................................................................... 39
VOCATIONAL – TECHNICAL – SPECIAL PROGRAMS 39 ACADEMIC FLEX PROGRAM ......................................................................................................... 39 DRIVER EDUCATION ........................................................................................................................ 39 GREATER ALTOONA CAREER AND TECHNOLOGY CENTER ............................................. 39 LEADERSHIP BLAIR COUNTY YOUTH ........................................................................................ 40 PLANNED VIRTUAL EDUCATION DAYS ..................................................................................... 40 SHEETZ SCHOOL AND CAREER SCHOLARZ PROGRAM ...................................................... 40 YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS ACADEMY ........................................................................................ 41
ASSOCIATE OF ARTS IN LIBERAL ARTS WITH A HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES
SPECIALIZATION 42 ASSOCIATES DEGREE MAJOR COURSE REQUIREMENTS ................................................... 43 COURSE DESCRIPTIONS OF PRESCRIBED MOUNT ALOUSIUS COURSES ....................... 43 Yearly Sequencing ................................................................................................................................. 47 Appendix A Department Codes ............................................................................................................ 50
JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL 52 COURSE REQUIREMENTS PRE-AP® PROGRAM ..................................................................... 52 COURSE REQUIREMENTS 7TH AND 8TH GRADE ....................................................................... 53
JUNIOR HIGH COURSE DESCRIPTIONS 53
PRE-ADVANCED PLACEMENT® PREPARATORY PROGRAM 53 PRE-AP® ENGLISH AND LANGUAGE ARTS LEVEL I .............................................................. 53 PRE-AP® ENGLISH AND LANGUAGE ARTS LEVEL II............................................................. 54 PRE-AP® ALGEBRA I ........................................................................................................................ 54 GEOMETRY ......................................................................................................................................... 54 PRE-AP® ALGEBRA II ....................................................................................................................... 54 RELIGION FOUNDATIONS: AN OVERVIEW OF FAITH........................................................... 54 PRE-AP® CHEMISTRY AND PHYSICS .......................................................................................... 54 PRE-AP® BIOLOGY............................................................................................................................ 54 WORLD GEOGRAPHY AND CULTURES ...................................................................................... 55 PRE-AP® U.S. HISTORY .................................................................................................................... 55 WORLD LANGUAGES ....................................................................................................................... 55 T.E.A.M .................................................................................................................................................. 55 ADVISORY ............................................................................................................................................ 55 CONFERENCE PERIOD ..................................................................................................................... 55 INTRODUCTION TO ART ................................................................................................................. 55 INTRODUCTION TO DRAMA .......................................................................................................... 55 INTRODUCTION TO MUSIC ............................................................................................................ 56 iPads IN EDUCATION ......................................................................................................................... 56 MICROSOFT ESSENTIALS ............................................................................................................... 56 PHYSICAL EDUCATION ................................................................................................................... 56 ADD-ON BAND ..................................................................................................................................... 56 CHAMBER ENSEMBLE ..................................................................................................................... 56 ADD-ON CHORUS ............................................................................................................................... 56 CHAMBER CHOIR .............................................................................................................................. 57
7TH AND 8TH GRADE 57 ENGLISH ............................................................................................................................................... 57 7th ENGLISH AND LANGUAGE ARTS ............................................................................................ 57 8th ENGLISH AND LANGUAGE ARTS ............................................................................................ 57 7th GRADE MATHEMATICS.............................................................................................................. 57 PRE-ALGEBRA .................................................................................................................................... 57 ALGEBRA I ........................................................................................................................................... 57 GEOMETRY ......................................................................................................................................... 57 ALGEBRA II ......................................................................................................................................... 58 FUNDAMENTALS OF FAITH ........................................................................................................... 58 INTEGRATED SCIENCE .................................................................................................................... 58 INTRODUCTION TO CHEMISTRY AND PHYSICS ..................................................................... 58
SOCIAL STUDIES ................................................................................................................................ 58 WORLD GEOGRAPHY AND CULTURES ...................................................................................... 58 U.S. HISTORY I .................................................................................................................................... 58 WORLD LANGUAGES ....................................................................................................................... 59 T.E.A.M (GRADE 7) ............................................................................................................................. 59 T.E.A.M (GRADE 8) ............................................................................................................................. 59 ADVISORY ............................................................................................................................................ 59 CONFERENCE PERIOD ..................................................................................................................... 59 INTRODUCTION TO ART ................................................................................................................. 59 INTRODUCTION TO DRAMA .......................................................................................................... 59 INTRODUCTION TO MUSIC ............................................................................................................ 59 INTRODUCTION TO WORLD CULTURES ................................................................................... 59 iPads IN EDUCATION ......................................................................................................................... 59 MICROSOFT ESSENTIALS ............................................................................................................... 60 PHYSICAL EDUCATION ................................................................................................................... 60 ADD-ON BAND ..................................................................................................................................... 60 CHAMBER ENSEMBLE ..................................................................................................................... 60 CHAMBER CHOIR .............................................................................................................................. 60 ADD-ON CHORUS ............................................................................................................................... 60
HIGH SCHOOL
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
• 4 Units of Credit each in Religion, English, and Mathematics
• 3 Units of Credit each in Social Studies and Science
• 2 Additional Credits in Social Studies, Science, or a combination of both
• 2 Units of Credit in Arts/Humanities
• 1.5 Credit in Health and Physical Education
• 5 Credits in Career Focus/Elective Courses
• Christian Service – 25 hours or service project yearly
• Yearly Retreat
Graduation Requirements for students attending Greater Altoona Career and Technology Center
• 4 Units of Credit each in Religion, English, Mathematics
• 3 Units of Credit each in Social Studies and Science
• 2 Units of Credit in Arts/Humanities
• 1.5 Credit in Health and Physical Education
• 8 Credits in Career Focus/Elective Courses
• Christian Service – 25 hours or service project yearly
• Yearly Retreat
YEARLY COURSE REQUIREMENTS
de = Dual Enrollment. Courses with this designation are available for students to take for college credits through our Dual
Enrollment Program
Professor-In-Residence courses (PIR) (identified below as such) are taught at Bishop Guilfoyle by Saint Francis University
professors. These courses are mandatory Dual Enrollment, including all fees. Coursework and grading are aligned with
university policy standards. In order to earn the college credits a student must apply and pay the college for the credits and
maintain a “C” average or higher in the class. In these mandatory DE courses, high school credit will not be issued if college
credit is not earned.
Senior Year Required Courses – 8 credits
Religion—Required (choose one):
Catholic Discipleship Catholic Ministry and Leadership
Catholic Moral Theology/The Christian Life Christian Service and Formation
English—Required (choose one):
British & World Literature/Composition AP Literature/Compositionde
AP English Language and Compositionde
Mathematics—Required (one assigned by teacher):
Algebra III/Trig de
Business Math
Calculus I
College Algebra
College Probability and Statistics-Honorsde
Probability/Statistics
AP Calculus ABde
AP Calculus BC
Social Studies and/or Science—Required (choose two):
Anatomy/Physiologyde
Anatomy/Physiology IIde
Chemistry
Ecology
Environmental Sustainabilityde
Forensicsde
Microbiologyde
Physicsde
World History
AP Art Historyde
AP Biologyde
AP
Chemistryde
AP
Environmental Sciencede
AP European History
AP Physicsde
AP Psychologyde
AP US History
AP World History
Electives:
Seniors will be scheduled for their choice of THREE electives
(a total of 2 Arts/Humanities credits are required prior to graduation)
Optional Courses:
Greater Altoona Career and Technical Center
ADD-ON Courses: Add-On Band, Add-On Chorus, Add-On Scientific Writing
Junior Year Required Courses – 8 credits
Religion—Required (choose one):
Catholic Moral Theology/The Christian Life
Catholic Discipleship
English—Required (choose one):
American Literature/Composition
AP English Language and Compositionde
Mathematics—Required (one assigned by teacher):
Algebra II
Algebra III/Trigde
Geometry
Probability/Statistics
College Probability and Statistics-Honorsde
Calculus I
AP Calculus ABde
Science—Required (choose one):
Chemistry
Ecology
Physicsde
AP Biologyde
AP
Chemistryde
AP
Environmental Sciencede
AP Physicsde
Social Studies—Required:
U.S. Government/Econ
Required Junior Courses:
Health and Physical Education II (semester) and Personal Finance (semester)
Electives:
Juniors will be scheduled for their choice of TWO electives
(a total of 2 Arts/Humanities credits are required prior to graduation)
Optional Courses:
Greater Altoona Career and Technical Center
ADD-ON Courses: Add-On Band, Add-On Chorus, Add-On Scientific Writing
Sophomore Year Required Courses – 8 credits
Religion—Required (choose one):
Biblical Faith I and II
Catholic Discipleship
English—Required (choose one):
Exploring Literature and Composition
AP English Language and Compositionde
Mathematics—Required (one assigned by teacher):
Algebra II
Geometry
Algebra III/Trigde
Science—Required (choose one):
AP Biologyde
Chemistry
Ecology
Social Studies—Required (choose one):
World History
AP World History
Electives:
Sophomores will be scheduled for their choice of THREE electives
(a total of 2 Arts/Humanities credits are required prior to graduation)
Optional Courses:
Greater Altoona Career and Technical Center
ADD-ON Courses: Add-On Band, Add-On Chorus
Freshmen Year Required Courses – 8 credits
Religion—Required:
Biblical Faith I and II
English—Required:
Introduction to Literature/Composition
Mathematics—Required (one assigned by teacher):
Pre-Algebra
Algebra I
Algebra II
Science—Required:
Biology
Social Studies—Required:
U.S. History II
Required Freshmen Courses:
Health and Physical Education I
Introduction to Computer Science and Coding
Foreign Language
Electives:
Freshmen will be scheduled for ONE elective
Optional Courses:
ADD-ON Courses: Add-On Band, Add-On Chorus
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DUAL ENROLLMENT
Dual Enrollment (DE): A dual enrollment course offers curriculum developed by teachers at Bishop
Guilfoyle Catholic High School that area colleges (listed below) have approved to meet the standards they
teach in the specific content area.
Taking a course as dual enrollment is optional (please see information below on mandatory DE
Professor-In-Residence courses). If a student opts to take a course as dual enrollment, then he/she will
earn both high school and college credit. In order to earn the college credits a student must apply and
pay the college for the credits and maintain a “C” average or higher in the class (Mount Aloysius College
requires a 78% or higher.) Upon high school graduation, these credits are typically transferrable to other
colleges and universities.
Please note that Professor-In-Residence courses (identified in the SFU section below and marked
with an asterisk*) are taught at Bishop Guilfoyle by Saint Francis University professors and are available
for students in grades 11-12. These courses are mandatory Dual Enrollment, including all fees.
Coursework and grading are aligned with university policy standards. In order to earn the college credits
a student must apply and pay the college for the credits and maintain a “C” average or higher in the class.
In these mandatory DE courses, high school credit will not be issued if college credit is not earned.
DE fees are based on number of credits per course, as listed. Dual Enrollment fees are
approximately $60.00 per credit.
** NOTE: AP® status of these courses pending approval by The College Board.
DE through Mount Aloysius College
Available to students in grades 9-12
Anatomy and Physiology/Lab (4 credits)
Visual Basic Programming (3 credits)
Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) (3 credits)
AP® Biology/Lab (4 credits)
AP® Chemistry/Lab (4 credits)
AP® English Language and Composition (3 credits)
AP® English Literature and Composition (3 credits)
DE through Penn Highland Community College
Available to students in grades 9-12
Accounting II (3 credits)
DE through Saint Francis University
Non-Professor-In-Residence courses are available to students in grades 9-12
Please note that Professor-In-Residence courses (identified below with an asterisk*) are mandatory Dual
Enrollment, including all fees, and are available for students in grades 11-12.
Algebra III/Trigonometry (3 credits)
Anatomy and Physiology/Lab (3 credits)
Anatomy and Physiology II/Lab (3 credits)
Environmental Sustainability/Lab (3 credits)
Physics/Lab (4 credits)
Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) (3 credits)
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AP® Biology/Lab (3 credits)
AP® Calculus AB (3 credits)
AP® Environmental Science/Lab (3 credits)
AP® Music Theory (3 credits)
* Honors College Probability & Statistics (3 credits)
* Honors Fine Arts: Culture and Values (3 credits)
* Honors Introduction to Engineering and STEM (3 credits)
* Honors Introduction to Exceptionalities (3 credits)
* Honors Religion Special Topic: The Sacred Journey (3 credits)
* Honors Wall Street 101 (3 credits)
DE through Seton Hill
Available to students in grades 9-12
Accounting I and II (3 credits)
Anatomy/Physiology (4 credits)
Anatomy/Physiology II (4 credits)
Forensics (3 credits)
Microbiology (4 credits)
Spanish III** (3 credits)
AP® Art History (3 credits)
AP® Biology (4 credits)
AP® Drawing (3 credits) AP® Environmental Science (3 credits)
AP® Physics 1 (4 credits)
AP® Psychology (3 credits)
AP® Spanish Language** (3 credits)
AP® US History (3 credits)
DE through University of Pittsburgh
Available to students in grades 11-12
Right Start to College I and II** (1 credit)
ADVANCED PLACEMENT® Advanced Placement (AP)®: An advanced placement course follows a national program developed by
The College Board. The curriculum is rigorous, and the content taught is consistent across the country.
A student enrolled in an AP® course will take the AP® exam at the end of the school year to satisfy the
AP® course requirements.
A student will earn high school credit for an AP® course and can submit their AP® exam score to
the college they have chosen to attend after high school. That college will determine if credit will be
given based on exam score.
Please note that fees are required for AP® textbooks and exams. While costs for Advanced
Placement® textbooks vary by course, 2018-2019 AP® exam fees were approximately $94.00 per exam.
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An overall grade point average of 85% and higher is required for Advanced Placement® and
Honors courses. *Requirements for Professor-In-Residence courses are as indicated in course
description.
Advanced Placement® and Professor-in-Residence courses:
1. AP® Art History
2. AP® Biology
3. AP® Calculus AB
4. AP® Calculus BC (online course)
5. AP® Chemistry
6. AP® Computer Science A
7. AP® Computer Science Principles (online course)
8. AP® Drawing
9. AP® English Language and Composition
10. AP® English Literature and Composition
11. AP® Environmental Science
12. AP® European History
13. AP® Music Theory
14. AP® Physics 1
15. AP® Psychology
16. AP® Research
17. AP® Seminar
18. AP® Spanish Language
19. AP® US History
20. AP® World History
21. Honors College Probability and Statistics*
22. Honors Fine Arts: Culture and Values *
23. Honors Introduction to Engineering and STEM *
24. Honors Introduction to Exceptionalities *
25. Honors Religion Special Topic: The Sacred Journey*
26. Honors Wall Street 101*
Advanced Placement® Courses have a weight of 1.10. Honors courses have a weight of 1.05.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT® CAPSTONE What is AP Capstone? AP Capstone™ is a College Board program that equips students with the
independent research, collaborative teamwork, and communication skills that are increasingly valued by
colleges. It cultivates curious, independent, and collaborative scholars and prepares them to make logical,
evidence-based decisions.
AP Capstone is comprised of two AP courses — AP Seminar and AP Research — and is designed to
complement and enhance the discipline-specific study in other AP courses. The AP Capstone program
can provide unique research opportunities for current AP students or can expand access to AP by
encouraging students to master the argument-based writing skills that the AP Capstone program develops.
The two AP Capstone courses, with their associated performance tasks, assessments, and application of
research methodology, require students to:
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• Analyze topics through multiple lenses to construct meaning or gain understanding.
• Plan and conduct a study or investigation.
• Propose solutions to real-world problems.
• Plan and produce communication in various forms.
• Collaborate to solve a problem.
• Integrate, synthesize, and make cross-curricular connections.
How AP Capstone Works: Students take AP Seminar in grade 11, followed by AP Research in 12th
grade. Students who earn scores of 3 or higher in AP Seminar and AP Research and on four additional AP
Exams of their choosing receive the AP Capstone Diploma™. Students who earn scores of 3 or higher in
AP Seminar and AP Research but not on four additional AP Exams receive the AP Seminar and Research
Certificate™.
AP Seminar: In this yearlong course, students develop and strengthen analytic and inquiry skills,
exploring two to four relevant issues chosen by the student and/or teacher. For example, students might
explore the question of whether national security is more important than a citizen’s right to privacy, or
whether genetic engineering is a benefit to society.
Using an inquiry framework, students practice reading and analyzing articles; research studies;
foundational, literary, and philosophical texts; listening to and viewing speeches, broadcasts, and personal
accounts; and experiencing artistic works and performances. Students learn to consider an issue from
multiple perspectives, evaluate the strength of an argument, and make logical, fact-based decisions.
Students question, research, explore, pose solutions, develop arguments, collaborate, and communicate
using various media. After taking AP Seminar, students will have the opportunity to further hone their
inquiry and analytical writing skills in AP Research.
AP Seminar Assessment: AP Seminar students are assessed with two through-course performance tasks
and one end-of-course exam. The performance tasks consist of a team project and presentation, and an
individual research-based essay and presentation. All three assessments are summative and are used to
calculate a final AP score of 1 to 5. Written performance task components are scored by the College
Board and presentations are teacher-scored. The end-of-course exam is in May; it takes two hours and
consists of three short-answer questions and one essay question.
AP Research: AP Seminar is a prerequisite for AP Research.
AP Research allows students to design, plan, and conduct a yearlong research-based investigation on a
topic of individual interest, documenting their process with a portfolio. This allows students to
demonstrate the ability to apply scholarly understanding to real-world problems and issues.
Students further the skills developed in AP Seminar by learning how to understand research methodology,
employ ethical research practices, and access, analyze, and synthesize information to build, present, and
defend an argument. Students may choose to do one of the following:
• Dig deeper into a topic studied in an AP course.
• Work across academic areas with an interdisciplinary topic.
• Study a new area of interest, perhaps one for further study at the college level.
AP Research Assessment: The AP Research course culminates in an academic paper of 4,000 to 5,000
words and a presentation with an oral defense. The presentation is teacher-scored, and the academic paper
is scored by the College Board. There is no end-of-course exam for AP Research.
Both components are included in the calculation of a final AP score (using the 1–5 scale).
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HIGH SCHOOL COURSE
DESCRIPTIONS
ARTS DEPARTMENT
2-D MULTIMEDIA DESIGN:
Centered on creating a diversified portfolio, this course offers the upper level student the opportunity to
explore various media in an open studio setting. With the inclusion of such topics as photography,
graphic layout for advertising purposes, and printmaking, students will advance into three dimensional
options, creating hand-built ceramics and sculpting with found objects. This course is recommended for
upperclassmen who are looking to challenge themselves in the fine arts.
ART LAB AND THEORY:
This full year course introduces the theory of art by exploring the elements and principles of design.
Merit based, hands-on projects will be an integral part of this course and will reinforce this knowledge
based on a defined rubric. The critiquing process, both oral and written, is included, with an introduction
to all mediums and their techniques. Students will be challenged to produce various works to include
drawing, sculpting and painting. Individual performance, based on set criteria, is considered when
succeeding in this course. It is highly suggested to consider this class if continuing to Painting 101 or AP
Studio Arts: Drawing.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT® ART HISTORY (Dual Enrollment):
This college level, full year course is intended to develop an understanding and knowledge of historical
and cultural content and context of architecture, sculpture, painting, and various media. It involves
critical thinking and the opportunity to examine and critique major forms of artistic expression from both
past and present from a variety of cultures. Those whose interests are in history and literature, as well as
the arts, are encouraged to take this class. Both classroom and on-site study is encouraged.
The AP® Art History course teaches students visual analysis of various works of art. It teaches students to
understand works of art through both visual and contextual analysis. The AP® Art History exam generally
reflects this coverage and will require students to write two essays as well as to assess student learning in
a series of objective questions. Students are required to purchase their own textbooks and test for this
course.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT® DRAWING (Dual Enrollment):
Advanced Placement Drawing is a rigorous college-level course, which requires the production of a high-
quality artist’s portfolio. In this course, students will be challenged to develop their own personal theme
and works in drawing. All work is expected to reflect an in-depth, sustained investigation of materials,
process, and ideas. In May, students will submit digital portfolios to College Board for final evaluation.
Finished portfolios include 15 works of art, process documentation, and written information about the
work. In addition to the digital portfolio, students will also mail their 5 best pieces to College Board for a
physical, in person, evaluation.
It is highly recommended that students have previous training in art. Completion of Art Lab and Theory is
recommended. Students are required to purchase their own textbooks, drawing materials, and test for this
course.
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INDEPENDENT STUDY: ADVANCED PLACEMENT® DRAWING:
In addition to the information provided above: Students who choose Independent Study AP Drawing will
be required to complete artwork, process documentation, and writing at home. Students will be
responsible for submitting work periodically throughout the school year to ensure progress is being made
towards the completion of a high-quality, 15-piece, artist’s portfolio. Finished portfolios include 15
works of art, process documentation, and written information about the work. In addition to the digital
portfolio, students will also mail their 5 best pieces to College Board for a physical, in person, evaluation.
It is highly recommended that students have previous training in art. Completion of Art Lab and Theory is
recommended. Students are required to purchase their own textbooks, drawing materials, and test for this
course.
INTRODUCTION TO ART HISTORY (GRADES 10-12)::
This elective course is a fun way to learn about the history of making art. It is a timeline study of art and
its historical relevance from Prehistoric to Modern. Students will learn the meaning behind artifacts
discovered, with an opportunity to MAKE art inspired by the works of the past. Students will develop a
sense of pride for what they are able to create, regardless of their artistic ability and will gain a greater
appreciation of the arts, in general. It is highly suggested to take this course if continuing to AP® Art
History.
PAINTING 101:
This full year course explores various wet mediums in an open studio format. Students will explore the
various styles of art produced by the masters and contemporary artists. Students will be challenged to
create original art while further developing your own style. Students will be required to produce artwork
for public display in the community.
Instrumental Music
CONCERT BAND (GRADES 9-12):
This instrumental music course is a group lab of traditional band instrumentation where students receive
group instruction to hone their skills as a musician in an instrumental ensemble setting. Skills include
reading music, sight-reading, and aural training with mixed instrumental literature. This course requires
attendance at all after-school rehearsals, as well as several performances outside of the regular school day.
If a student’s schedule does not allow for Band, Add-on Band is available (see below).
Students who participate in band or add-on band are automatically members of the Bishop Guilfoyle
Marching Marauders. However, if a student’s schedule precludes them from participating in the
marching band’s schedule (i.e. participation in other fall sports, etc.), they will be excused and will not
receive academic credit for those functions. Additional make-up opportunities may be required,
depending on the nature of the absence.
ADD-ON BAND (GRADES 9-12):
Audition AND/OR Teacher Signature Required
Students will audition for this course. Add-On Band provides an opportunity to develop and refine
individual music skills in a performance ensemble setting. There is also opportunity for individual
instruction in instrumental technique and musicianship. Students will prepare and perform a variety of
instrumental music from varying historical periods, cultures, and styles. Students will also develop and
refine music and sight-reading skills, rehearsal techniques, an appreciation for historical context and
performance presentation. This course is intended for the student who is unable to schedule the daily
band course and attend, at minimum, weekly rehearsals during the regularly scheduled band course, in
addition to all after-school rehearsals and performances. Credit will be given on a full year or semester
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commitment (.5 or .25 credit, respectively). This performance ensemble is an extension of the traditional
band course and is scheduled with performances at concerts, sporting events, parades, and other
ceremonies.
CHAMBER ENSEMBLE (GRADES 9-12):
Advanced instrumentalists interested in Chamber Ensemble must enroll in Concert Band or Add-on Band
and may then audition for this select group. Chamber Ensemble will meet once per week outside of
school time and prepare high-quality, advanced repertoire for performance at the annual Christmas and
Spring concerts. Participation in this ensemble may present special performing, leadership, or academic
opportunities which would not be available in Concert or Marching band.
Vocal Music
CHORUS (GRADES 9-12):
This course is a group vocal lab where students receive group instruction to hone their skills as a musician
in a vocal ensemble setting. Skills include reading music, sight-singing, aural training, and mixed choral
literature in varied styles and from different historical periods. Additional studies incorporated into the
course will include music history and music theory. This course requires attendance at all after-school
rehearsals, as well as several performances outside of the regular school day. If a student’s schedule does
not allow for Chorus, Add-on Chorus is available (see below).
ADD-ON CHORUS (GRADES 9-12): Audition AND/OR Teacher Signature Required
Students will audition for this course. Add-On Chorus provides instruction in vocal technique and
musicianship. Students will perform a variety of vocal music from varying historical periods, cultures,
and styles. Students will also develop and refine music and sight-reading skills, rehearsal techniques, an
appreciation for historical context and performance presentation. This course is intended for the student
who is unable to schedule the daily chorus course and attend, at minimum, weekly rehearsals during the
regularly scheduled chorus course, in addition to all after-school rehearsals, performances at concerts,
sporting events, parades, and other ceremonies. Credit will be given on a full year or semester
commitment (.5 or .25 credit, respectively).
CHAMBER CHOIR (GRADES 9-12): Advanced vocalists interested in Chamber Choir must enroll in Chorus or Add-on Chorus and may then
audition for this select group. Chamber Choir will meet once per week outside of school time and prepare
high-quality, advanced repertoire for performance at the annual Christmas and Spring concerts.
Participation in this ensemble may present special performing, leadership, or academic opportunities
which would not be available in the daily Chorus class.
PIANO PERFORMANCE/ACCOMPANIMENT (GRADES 9-12):
Audition AND/OR Teacher Signature Required
This instrumental music course will focus on piano accompaniment and performance through facilitation
and scheduling with school choral ensembles in rehearsal and performance settings. The musician taking
this course should be proficient at the intermediate to advanced level of piano performance, and will
demonstrate proficient music reading skills, sight-reading abilities, and open-score reading. Successful
interview/audition with director required.
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Theatrical Arts
DRAMA APPRECIATION AND PERFORMANCE (GRADES 10-12):
In this course, students will study the history of theater, the different classifications of theater, and famous
playwrights. Students will also be taught all the different aspects of theater. Students will have many
opportunities to perform parts of plays or full-length plays. Students will be responsible for reading,
writing and analyzing different plays.
Music Theory and History
MUSIC THEORY: (GRADES 10-12)
This elective course will introduce and develop the student in musicianship, theory, musical materials,
and procedures. Theoretical ideas including scales, chord structure, aural skills and analysis are
emphasized. The course also gives a brief introduction to modern post-tonal (atonal) music. It is highly
suggested to take this course as a precursor to Advanced Placement Music Theory (see below).
ADVANCED PLACEMENT® MUSIC THEORY (Dual Enrollment, GRADES 10-12):
This course is primarily designed for the serious musician and those who plan to study music at the
college level. Ability to read and write musical notation is fundamental to this course. This course may
emphasize one aspect of music such as harmony; however, more often it integrates aspects of melody,
harmony, texture, rhythm, form, musical analysis, elementary composition, and history and style to some
extent. Musicianship skills such as dictation and other listening skills, sight-singing, and keyboard
harmony are considered an important part of this course. Students are required to purchase their own
textbooks and test for this course.
BUSINESS DEPARTMENT
ACCOUNTING I (GRADES 10-12):
This course focuses on single proprietorship and partnership accounting cycles. The completed
accounting cycle for each form of business ownership will be taught to the students. The course will
introduce students to all accounting forms and records. The text used is student-centered and its basic
objective is to help students acquire accounting knowledge, understanding, and skills.
Part of the course will be devoted to the study of various accounting and/or bookkeeping careers. The
major objective for this course is for students to understand and create an accounting cycle for both
service businesses organized as sole proprietorships and merchandising businesses organized as
partnerships.
ACCOUNTING II (Dual Enrollment, GRADE 12):
This course expands on the accounting principles and procedures introduced in the Accounting I course.
Emphasis is placed on partnerships and corporations. As in Accounting I, in this course students will
utilize automated accounting forms. New topics introduced include departmentalized accounting,
management accounting, cost accounting, not-for-profit accounting, and financial analysis. The major
objective for this course is for students to understand and create an accounting cycle for both partnerships
and corporations.
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ADVANCED MICROCOMPUTERS (GRADES 10-12):
Through the use of various programs, this course expands basic computer knowledge. The course
emphasizes proper formatting styles for a variety of correspondence and presentations. Integration of
computer programs includes the use of Microsoft Office and internet applications. Students will be
introduced to the scanner, digital camera, and photo editing programs. Students will need to have access
to a digital camera and flash drive for the course. Students will update their e-file portfolios.
MULTIMEDIA/YEARBOOK (GRADES 10-12):
The multimedia portion of this course is designed as a project oriented hands-on introduction to the
exciting world of multimedia technology. Students will work with various software programs and
equipment to create a variety of projects that include but are not limited to working on the yearbook and
creating event videos. Students will be introduced to photography, videography and social media
techniques.
HONORS WALL STREET 101: BUSINESS IN A GLOBAL SOCIETY (Mandatory Dual
Enrollment, GRADES 11-12):
This course will provide a broad business perspective that considers the ancient and modern economic
systems that balance resource supply with human wants, the ethical and legal dimensions of business
decisions, the role of demographic diversity in a multicultural workforce, and how business operates in a
global society. It will be offered by Saint Francis University faculty in a hybrid manner with regular
classes onsite at BG, along with electronic communications between the faculty member and students.
Cumulative GPA of 80% or higher is required for this course.
CAREER DEVELOPMENT SERIES
The Career Development Series (CDS) will provide juniors and seniors the
opportunity to earn Dual Enrollment credits from Saint Francis University
through the online/hybrid courses in this section.
Coursework and grading are aligned with university policy standards.
Cumulative GPA of 80% or higher is required for this program.
*Additional Fees are Required*
Juniors and seniors may enroll in any of the three available course offering pairs outlined below. Students
will receive six college credits and two high school credits upon successful completion of an offering.
Courses are taught online through SFU and will be scheduled during the normal school day; a student’s
academic schedule will include one period for CDS course.
Each course will be one semester long, based on the SFU academic calendar. Fall 2020 courses will
begin Monday, August 24, 2020 and conclude with a final exam during the week beginning December 7.
Spring 2021 courses will begin Monday, January 11, 2021 and conclude with a final exam during the
week beginning April 29.
BG students will apply for admission to SFU in April of 2020, register for the courses in May, be billed
$174 per course in June, and pay by the end of July. Students are required to register for the pair of
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courses, for a total of $348 per option. Schedule changes can continue through September for Fall 2020
courses and through January for Spring 2021 courses.
Option 1 Fall 2020: HLSC 113: Health, Wellness and Disability
Spring 2021: PUBH 101 Intro to Public Health
HEALTH, WELLNESS AND DISABILITY (Mandatory Dual Enrollment; GRADES 11-12):
This online course was developed to tailor to the high school student who holds an interest in topics
related to health and wellness or a future working in health care or with persons with disabilities. The
course will introduce the seven dimensions of wellness including physical, emotional, social, financial,
occupational, environmental, and spiritual. Students will be challenged to explore their views on
wellness, identify their own personal challenges to obtaining health and wellness and set goals for
themselves. The course will also explore the concept of disability, away from the idea that physical
capabilities solely represent health or wellness. We will also explore the lives of persons who experience
disability, through personal experience and current events/pop culture/media. Students will be
encouraged to challenge their personal views on what constitutes health and wellness for those in their
community as well as explore health care careers that serve to promote health and wellness.
INTRODUCTION TO PUBLIC HEALTH (Mandatory Dual Enrollment; GRADES 11-12):
This online formative course serves as an overview of public health and is the initial book-end course in
the major. This course is designed to give the learner the principles of population health, history, health
professions, acute care institutions and public health systems, tools of public health, health informatics,
preventing disease and disability, finding reliable data, basic statistical measures used in public health,
social and behavioral factors, environmental issues, medical care, and the future of public health.
Students will discuss the impacts of current issues in public health and study the impacts of healthcare
reform.
Option 2
Fall 2020: CPSC 101: Intro to Computer Science
Spring 2021: ENGR 111: Intro to Engineering and STEM
INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER SYSTEMS (Mandatory Dual Enrollment; GRADES 11-12):
This online course will introduce the basic concepts and techniques of how computers are used to help
solve problems with emphasis on quantitative reasoning applications in science, business and other areas
of life; discussion of components of a complete computer system, including equipment, programs, data,
procedures, and personnel; applications packages, online and web resources. No prior exposure to
computers is assumed.
INTRODUCTION TO ENGINEERING AND STEM (Mandatory Dual Enrollment; GRADES 11-12):
In this online course, through a series of real-world projects, students will experience the engineering
design process, solving engineering problems, use of drawing and design software tools, functioning
within multidisciplinary teams, consideration of professional and ethical responsibility, project
management, technical writing and verbal communication, creating reports and presentations. Projects
will be chosen to integrate engineering disciplines and concepts; typical examples include launching
pumpkins, building Arduino-based environmental sensors, or using 3-D printing to create scale-models
of buildings.
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Option 3
Fall 2020: ACCT 101 Financial Accounting
Spring 2021: MRKT 101: Intro to Marketing
FINANCIAL ACCOUNTING (Mandatory Dual Enrollment; GRADES 11-12):
This online course will be an introduction to the basic concept and techniques emphasizing the
importance of accounting as a basis for decision-making by businesspeople, investors and government
officials and an analysis of business problems in which accounting issues are dominant elements. The
basic structure of accounting systems and controls, working capital, accounting problems of the corporate
entity, long term resources and depreciation, forms of business organization.
INTRODUCTION TO MARKETING (Mandatory Dual Enrollment; GRADES 11-12):
This online course will discuss nature and work of marketing management which organizes, directs and
controls the functional specialties of marketing. Principles, trends and policies of marketing environment,
governmental regulation, marketing research, and social evaluation.
COMPUTER SCIENCE DEPARTMENT
ADVANCED PLACEMENT® COMPUTER SCIENCE A (GRADES 11-12):
This online course will cover the first semester of a college introductory programming course. The
course will be divided between lecture and computer laboratories. A computer for home use will be
required since extensive home computing will be required for successful completion of this course and
the AP® test. Two programs, jdk and jvm, are required to be downloaded onto the home machine. The
students are responsible for purchasing the appropriate textbook. Successful completion of a previous
programming class (Visual C++ or Visual Basic) is suggested. Students are required to purchase their
own textbooks and test for this course. This on-line course will not be included in Honor Roll, GPA, or
Rank calculations, as also outlined in the Student Handbook.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT® COMPUTER SCIENCE PRINCIPLES (GRADES 10-12):
This online course introduces students to the foundational concepts of computer science and challenges
them to explore how computing and technology can impact the world. With a unique focus on creative
problem solving and real-world applications, AP Computer Science Principles prepares students for
college and career.
This course offers a multidisciplinary approach to teaching the underlying principles of computation. The
course will introduce students to the creative aspects of programming, abstractions, algorithms, large data
sets, the Internet, cybersecurity concerns, and computing impacts. AP Computer Science Principles will
give students the opportunity to use technology to address real-world problems and build relevant
solutions. Together, these aspects of the course make up a rigorous and rich curriculum that aims to
broaden participation in computer science. Successful completion of Algebra I is suggested. Students
are required to purchase their own textbooks and test for this course. This on-line course will not be
included in Honor Roll, GPA, or Rank calculations, as also outlined in the Student Handbook.
FUNDAMENTALS OF COMPUTER SCIENCE AND CODING (GRADES 10-12):
The students would learn to create computer programs that will help them to learn to collaborate with
others, develop problem-solving skills, and persist through difficult tasks. They will study programming
concepts, computational thinking, and develop interactive games they can share with each other. This
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will consist of a year-long program that utilizes code.org. Legal, social and ethical issues related to the
use of the computers will be reinforced as well as internet safety.
INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER SCIENCE AND CODING (GRADE 9):
In this introductory computer science course, students will be introduced to core programming concepts,
computational thinking, and develop interactive games they can share with each other. Through the
creation of original computer games, students will learn to collaborate with others, develop problem
solving skills, and persist through difficult tasks. This course will meet once a week and will utilize
Code.org. Instruction related to educational technology tools such as Outlook, Microsoft 360, Canvas and
PowerSchool will also be included on an as-needed basis.
VISUAL BASIC PROGRAMMING (Dual Enrollment, GRADES 11-12):
NOT OFFERED 2020-2021
This academic course covers the first course of a college level programming class in the Visual Basic
medium. Students learn structured programming methods and Object-Oriented Programming methods
common to today’s programming languages. Classes are divided between classroom instruction and
hands-on computer use. This course is offered on alternate years with Visual C++ Programming.
VISUAL C++ PROGRAMMING (GRADES 10-12):
This course in the C++ computer language, the most common of first year college languages, is offered
on alternate years with Visual Basic Programming. Students learn structured programming methods
commonly used by high level computer languages. Classes are divided between regular classroom
instruction and hands-on computer use.
ENGLISH DEPARTMENT
AMERICAN LITERATURE AND COMPOSITION (GRADE 11):
Students study the heritage of American literature from the Puritans to contemporary authors.
Composition work generally is based on or stems from the literature selections, with special focus on
expository, analytic, and persuasive writing techniques. The writing requirements also include
completion of a career research paper. Students continue to add to their writing portfolio throughout the
year, either electronically on Canvas or hard copy. Summer reading is expected.
BRITISH & WORLD LITERATURE AND COMPOSITION (GRADE 12):
Students will study various genres within British and world literature, including novels and dramas
considered to be major works in Western literature. Composition skills are reinforced, particularly
analytic and persuasive techniques, with much emphasis on individual development as critical readers and
writers. Summer reading is required.
CONNECTING CONTENT THROUGH LITERATURE (GRADE 9 Pre-AP):
Students will demonstrate the skills needed to read, analyze, synthesize and evaluate literature from a
variety of sources, specific to short stories, the novel, drama and poetry. Focus grammar and vocabulary
will be introduced and examined within a variety of texts. Writing will be compiled as an outcome of
literature with an emphasis on the structure and development of formal essays that transition into MLA
format. MLA will be introduced and applied in formal writing throughout the year. Students will engage
in the creative writing process as it applies to the various genres of literature. Literature Circles and Share
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Out are the primary models that students engage in discussion. Informal and Formal Presentations are
integrated within the course and, typically, these are sources of prior learning from their previous
experience via the Pre-AP program. Summer reading is required.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT® ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND COMPOSITION (Dual Enrollment,
GRADES 10-11):
AP English Language and Composition is an introductory college-level composition course. Students
cultivate their understanding of writing and rhetorical arguments through reading, analyzing, and writing
texts as they explore topics like rhetorical situation, claims and evidence, reasoning and organization, and
style.
In the AP English Language and Composition course, students will explore a wide range of themes and
topical issues by engaging with texts from every genre and from across time periods. The majority of the
course reading will be challenging non-fiction of the sort that students can expect to encounter at the
university level. Students will also complete a substantial writing program, focused primarily on
developing skills in argument and analysis. Students will also continue their study of vocabulary and
grammar throughout the year. Students are required to purchase their own textbooks and test for this
course.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT® ENGLISH LITERATURE AND COMPOSITION (Dual Enrollment,
GRADE 12):
AP English Literature and Composition is offered to seniors. The course focus is based on extensive
reading and writing at the college-level. The course functions as a college class with the option for Dual
Enrollment. The AP® College Board Exam is required and students will take a Mid-Term and Final
Exam as per school policy. Literary classics are read and discussed with the implementation of the
Socratic seminar as the primary model for learning. In this way, AP® English students will respond
critically to literature and utilize those attributes in their writing. The underlining objective in the course
is credible research that enhances meaning and connects with accuracy to all required literature.
Course Objectives: Read, Analyze and Synthesize in response to required literature; Write with relevancy
using college-level format; Recognize various genre that includes the writer’s purpose, style and relation
to society/culture of the time period to which it was written; Identify the verbal skills necessary to
navigate proficiently in the seminar/literature circle setting; Select credible research with academic
integrity that allows the AP® student to differentiate valuable sources that enrich the seminar experience.
Students are required to purchase their own textbooks and test for this course.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT INSTRUCTION (GRADES 9-12):
English Language Development Instruction is designed specifically for the student whose primary home
language is a language other than English. This course is taught by an ESL Program Specialist and is
designed to provide English Learners with a comfortable environment for acquiring the English
Language. This course focuses on helping the student develop English language skills in listening,
speaking, reading, writing, and comprehension. Oral and literacy strategies are integrated at increasing
levels of accuracy and fluency. Academic language and social contexts are the primary focus. This course
utilizes the WIDA model for instruction in conjunction with the PA English Language Development
Standards Framework.
EXPLORING LITERATURE/COMPOSITION (GRADE 10):
Students continue review of the fundamentals of grammar and vocabulary and study of the various genres
of literature, with major emphasis on drama and the novel. Composition skills are further developed
through expository, narrative, and descriptive writing of journals, essays, book reports, and a research
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paper. Students continue to add to their writing portfolio throughout the year. The portfolios are
evaluated by student and teacher at year’s end and passed on to the next class to be continued through the
following school year. Summer reading is required.
INTRODUCTION TO LITERATURE/COMPOSITION (GRADE 9):
Students review fundamentals of grammar and vocabulary and are introduced to the various genres of
literature, with major emphasis on short stories, poetry, and drama. Composition skills are developed
through descriptive, narrative, and creative writings as well as a short research paper. A portfolio of
writings is compiled throughout the year, either electronically on Canvas or hard copy. Summer reading
is required.
LITERATURE SEMINAR (GRADES 10-12):
This English elective covers a wide range of literature, from classic to contemporary and from all genres.
Students will study texts from a Readers’ Response perspective and course work will be grounded by
Literature Circle and seminar activities. Through rich discussion and related writing assignments, students
will learn problem-solving strategies which connect to challenging themes that explore life lessons. This
year long course is centered on the collaborative work that students will encounter in college level
humanities courses through reading a diverse range of literature that reflects student-engaged learning.
PUBLIC SPEAKING/JOURNALISM (GRADES 11-12):
The public speaking portion of this year long course will enable students to better communicate through
the written and spoken word. Students will study how to perform speeches as well as study a number of
rather famous speeches given in the past. The journalism portion will find students learning how to
report the news in today’s changing markets. Students will have the opportunity to write and analyze
various types of articles.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT® RESEARCH (GRADE 12):
AP® Research allows students to design, plan, and conduct a yearlong research-based investigation on a
topic of individual interest, documenting their process with a portfolio. This allows students to
demonstrate the ability to apply scholarly understanding to real-world problems and issues.
Students further the skills developed in AP® Seminar by learning how to understand research
methodology, employ ethical research practices, and access, analyze, and synthesize information to build,
present, and defend an argument. Students may choose to do one of the following:
• Dig deeper into a topic studied in an AP course.
• Work across academic areas with an interdisciplinary topic.
• Study a new area of interest, perhaps one for further study at the college level.
An 85% or higher GPA and completion of AP Seminar are required for this course. This course is
required for AP® Capstone consideration.
RIGHT START TO COLLEGE I AND II (GRADE 11-12):
In this course, students will focus on metacognition, academic success skills, and career and college
planning and exploration. A variety of topics will be covered during this class, including but not limited
to goal setting, identifying learning styles, time management, memory, critical thinking, wellness,
resumes, career research, financial literacy, interviewing skills, college applications and scholarship
essays.
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ADVANCED PLACEMENT® SEMINAR (GRADE 11):
AP® Seminar is a foundational course that engages students in cross-curricular conversations that explore
the complexities of academic and real-world topics and issues by analyzing divergent perspectives. Using
an inquiry framework, students practice reading and analyzing articles, research studies, and foundational,
literary, and philosophical texts; listening to and viewing speeches, broadcasts, and personal accounts;
and experiencing artistic works and performances. Students learn to synthesize information from multiple
sources, develop their own perspectives in written essays, and design and deliver oral and visual
presentations, both individually and as part of a team. Ultimately, the course aims to equip students with
the power to analyze and evaluate information with accuracy and precision in order to craft and
communicate evidence-based arguments. An 85% or higher GPA and concurrent enrollment in AP®
English Language and Composition are required for this course. This course is required for AP®
Capstone consideration.
NOTE: In general, there are two English sequences.
English Sequence #1:
Grade 9: Introduction to Literature and Composition
Grade 10: Exploring Literature and Composition
Grade 11: American Literature and Composition or AP® English Language and Composition
Grade 12: British and World Literature and Composition
or AP® English Language and Composition or AP® English Literature and Composition
English Sequence #2: for students participating in the AP® Capstone program (more information about
this program is available on page 14):
Grade 9: Connecting Content through Literature or Introduction to Literature and Composition
Grade 10: AP® English Language and Composition
Grade 11: American Literature and Composition and AP® Seminar
Grade 12: AP® English Literature and Composition and AP® Research
HEALTH / PHYSICAL EDUCATION
HEALTH and PHYSICAL EDUCATION I (REQUIRED GRADE 9):
The course is designed to meet the Pennsylvania state standards for grade 9 in Health and Physical
Education. Approximately half the year, students will spend time engaging in a variety of traditional and
non-traditional physical education games and activities that promote a healthy lifestyle. The remaining
portion of the year, students will focus on making healthy lifestyle choices. The areas of health we will
explore and analyze are spiritual, physical, mental, social, emotional, environmental, financial, and
occupational health. Students will discover how their personal choices not only impact themselves, but
our families, communities, state and nation. Students receive 1 Credit Health and Physical Education
HEALTH and PHYSICAL EDUCATION II (REQUIRED GRADE 11):
The semester course is designed to meet the Pennsylvania state standards in Physical Education and is
part of a full year requirement including one semester of Personal Finance. Students will receive .5 credit
in Health and Physical Education and .5 credit in Personal Finance. Two areas of life after high school
that a person must maintain is a healthy lifestyle and how to properly manage their personal finances.
This junior yearlong course will examine and explore these two areas of life and how they play an
important role in helping students live their best life. Students in this course should be prepared to spend
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time reading and analyzing different books, setting and achieving measurable physical and financial
goals, discussing and providing solutions to one’s health and fitness and personal financial choices that
will better prepare them for a successful future. On-line summer scheduling of this offering is available
for rising juniors.
LANGUAGE DEPARTMENT
CHINESE I – LANGUAGE AND CULTURE:
In this course students will gain the basic communicative ability in spoken and written Mandarin Chinese.
Students will learn Pinyin, the Chinese phonetic transcription system, at the very beginning of the course.
With the help of Pinyin students will then be able to read and speak basic Chinese. Students will then
move forward to Chinese characters. In this course daily expressions and basic vocabulary will be
emphasized as well as basic grammar and character writing. Character typing will be introduced as well.
Throughout the course students will be exposed to different aspects of the Chinese culture, geography,
and history.
CHINESE II – LANGUAGE AND CULTURE:
This is an intermediate course for Mandarin Chinese and Chinese culture designed for students who have
completed Chinese I. The emphasis in this course is placed on developing listening, speaking, reading,
and writing skills using both the Pinyin phonetic system and Simplified Chinese characters.
Approximately 200 words will be taught through essential real-life topics. The course will further
introduce social traditions and cultural background of the language. Students are expected to acquire
more advanced vocabulary including dialect and idioms, grammar rules, as well as more complex
sentence structures for daily life communication. Students will converse at a higher level on relevant
topics they have learned. Students will understand and appreciate the Chinese culture such as Kung Fu
and Tea Culture.
CHINESE III – LANGUAGE AND CULTURE:
This is an advanced course for Mandarin Chinese and Chinese culture designed for students who have had
prior exposure to Chinese language or culture. The emphasis in this course is to develop listening,
speaking, reading, and writing skills using both the Pinyin phonetic system and Simplified Chinese
characters. Approximately 400 words will be taught through essential real-life topics and the social
traditions. Cultural background of the language will be introduced during the course as well.
At the end of the course students are expected to acquire both vocabulary and science structures in many
basic daily-life communications. Students will be able to identify the sounds and tones of Mandarin in
the Pinyin system, understand common Chinese grammar and sentence structures, write emails and
compositions on the basis of which they communicate with others on daily topics in Chinese, and give
related demonstrations. Students will also be able to appreciate various aspects of Chinese cultures,
lifestyles, and social-cultural conventions, and contrast differences in certain aspects between China and
the United States of America.
CHINESE IV – LANGUAGE AND CULTURE:
This course is for advanced Mandarin Chinese students. Students will continue developing their essential
skills in listening, speaking, reading and writing for daily communication. In addition, traditional Chinese
culture and modern Chinese culture will be introduced. A broad variety of expressions and complicated
sentence structure will be taught so that student can carry on daily conversations in various topics related
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to modern Chinese society. Students will develop the ability of communicating with native speakers
about phenomenon in society and news. Equal emphasis will be given to both characters and structures.
Students will be guided to write sentences and to translate material. Activities, discussions and debates
will be part of the course.
EXPLORING WORLD CULTURES
Students will explore the diversity of various countries/cultures through the lens of art and literature,
language, government, social organizations, history, and other cultural elements. By learning to be a
global citizen, students will increase their cultural intelligence and appreciation of cultural differences.
The course will include reading cultural novels, group discussions, projects, and multiple writing
assignments.
SPANISH I:
This course is the first part of a two-year study of elementary Spanish. Areas of study include
vocabulary, grammar, listening comprehension, speaking and pronunciation, reading, and writing.
Through various media and immersion experiences, students explore the cultures of various Spanish-
speaking countries and Hispanic communities. Great emphasis is placed on acquisition of vocabulary and
basic grammatical structures.
SPANISH II:
This course continues and expands skills and knowledge acquired in Spanish I. Grammatical structures,
reading, and writing are more complex, including more verb tenses and vocabulary. Students improve
writing skills through essays and stories, as well as gain confidence in speaking. Cultural experiences and
awareness continue to be interwoven throughout the course.
SPANISH III (GRADES 10-12):
Spanish III continues the development of the four communicative skills of speaking, listening, reading
and writing. The student can expect the class to be primarily to be taught in Spanish. The student will be
required to respond and to initiate conversation in Spanish with the teacher and classmates. Additionally,
the student will make presentations and speeches to the class and participate in live and simulated
conversations. In Spanish III there will be review of grammar and vocabulary learned in Spanish I and
II. In addition, the student will learn more advanced grammar such as the forms and the communicative
functions of the future and conditional tenses, the perfect tenses and the present and the imperfect
subjunctive. The student will be exposed to many types of written stimuli such as newspaper, blogs,
stories and literature, as well as video and audio recordings to practice and develop listening
comprehension skills. Regarding written communication skills, the student can expect to make cultural
comparisons in written form and orally, write emails, essays and stories. The student is expected to
exercise the conventions of writing in Spanish. The student will continue to acquire vocabulary related to
the course of study and will develop skills for relating unknown word to familiar ones through analysis to
root words, prefixes and suffixes and related words. An 85% accuracy rate is expected on all assignments
and work.
SPANISH IV (GRADES 11-12):
This course hones the four communicative skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing. The student
can expect the class almost entirely to be taught in Spanish. The student will be required to respond and to
initiate conversation in Spanish with the teacher and classmates and to make appropriate transitions in
conversation. No English will be permitted to be spoken in class without the permission of the teacher.
Class activities will include conversation of familiar topics as well as class discussions on a variety of
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themes from many type stimuli. Additionally, the student will make presentations and speeches to the
class and participate in live and simulated conversations. In Spanish IV there will be a review of
grammar acquired in the lower levels of Spanish, but student will be expected to have a 90% accuracy in
their knowledge and use of grammar and syntax. The student will be exposed to many types of written
stimuli such as newspaper, blogs, stories and literature and will be expected to read at a 90% accuracy
rate and to develop guessing strategies that help them to analyze text when no dictionary is permitted.
The student will be exposed to video and audio recordings to practice and develop listening
comprehension skills. Regarding written communication skills, the student can expect to make cultural
comparisons and understand cultural connections, cultural similarities and differences, understand and
differentiate between cultures based on pronunciation, style and word choice. The student can expect to
write emails, reviews, analyses, synopsis, stories and formal argumentative essays. The student is
expected to exercise the conventions of writing in Spanish including the development of Spanish style
and word choice. The student will be expected to write with a 90% accuracy without the use of a
dictionary, grammar or translator. The student will be exposed to and required to communicate with
idiomatic appropriate language. The student will continue to acquire vocabulary related to the course of
study and the themes discussed and will develop skills for relating unknown words to familiar ones
through analysis to root words, prefixes and suffixes and other related words. There will be no vocabulary
lists handed out. The student is expected look up unfamiliar words and maintain a personal dictionary of
unfamiliar words. An 85% accuracy rate is expected on all assignments and work. Most assignments will
be graded for accuracy.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT® SPANISH LANGUAGE AND CULTURE (Dual Enrollment,
GRADES 11-12):
This course further expands the skills of Spanish I, II, III and IV. More time is devoted to reading.
Writing takes varied forms and emphasis continues on oral proficiency. More complex grammar is
introduced along with review of earlier structures. Teacher and students will primarily speak Spanish
during class. Students are required to purchase their own textbooks and test for this course.
MATHEMATICS DEPARTMENT
ALGEBRA I:
Algebra I emphasizes operations with integers, using exponents, and solving multiple step equations. The
course introduces concepts of graphing functions. Systems of two linear equations with two variables are
solved using elimination and substitution, as are application problems involving scientific notation, ratio,
percent, and unit conversions.
ALGEBRA II:
Algebra II is a continuation of Algebra I and emphasizes equations, inequalities, linear relations,
functions, systems of equations and inequalities. Quadratic functions, polynomial functions, radical
equations, rational expressions, exponential and logarithmic functions, and basic principles of probability
and statistical inference are introduced.
ALGEBRA III/TRIGONOMETRY (Dual Enrollment, GRADES 11-12):
This follow-up course to Algebra II and Geometry includes concepts of algebra, equations, inequalities,
functions, graphs, polynomial and rational functions, exponential and logarithmic functions,
trigonometry, analytic geometry, and complex numbers.
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BUSINESS MATHEMATICS (GRADES 11-12):
This course reviews mathematical computations and includes the essentials of decimals, fractions,
percentages, and money computations. Content includes basic business applications and consumer
applications.
CALCULUS I: (GRADES 11-12):
This follow-up course to Pre-Calculus is designed to cover the standard first semester college calculus
course. Topics include elementary functions, limits, continuity, differential and integral calculus and the
application of both. 80% or higher in Pre-Calculus is required for this course. Students are required to
purchase the textbook.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT® CALCULUS AB (Dual Enrollment, GRADES 11-12):
This follow-up course to Pre-Calculus is designed to provide an opportunity for students to receive
college credit at the secondary level. AP® Calculus covers at least as much material as a standard first
semester college calculus course. Topics include elementary functions, limits, continuity, differential and
integral calculus and the application of both. In the spring, AP® Calculus students may take the
examination from The College Board for possible college credit. This is a Dual Enrollment course
equivalent to three college credits. 90% or higher in Pre-Calculus is required for this course. Students are
required to purchase their own textbooks and test for this course.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT® CALCULUS BC:
This online course is equivalent to a full year college course in single variable calculus. It covers
functions including parametric, polar, and vector representations, use of graphs, derivatives and their
applications, differentials, limits, integrals and their applications, differential equations, and infinite
series. The course emphasizes a multi-representational approach to calculus, with concepts, results, and
problems being expressed graphically, numerically, analytically, and verbally, with the connections
among these representations highlighted. This on-line course will not be included in Honor Roll, GPA, or
Rank calculations, as also outlined in the Student Handbook.
COLLEGE ALGEBRA (GRADE 12):
This course introduces a wide range of topics which may be encountered in a college mathematics course.
While new topics are introduced, emphasis is on reinforcement of algebraic, graphing, and problem-
solving skills. Rational roots, series and sequences, rational exponents, and basic trigonometric functions
are included. Other topics will be covered as time permits. This course prepares students for a non-
calculus schedule in college.
HONORS COLLEGE PROBABILITY AND STATISTICS (Mandatory Dual Enrollment, GRADES
11-12):
The course is designed as an alternative to the traditional mathematics sequence leading to calculus. This
applied mathematics course is often required in many college majors in the sciences, health sciences, and
social sciences. The topics in the course include methods used in the collection, presentation, analysis
and interpretation of data, including experimental design, sampling theory, estimation theory, hypothesis
testing, regression, correlation, analysis of variance and nonparametric techniques. Computer analysis is
also required. It will be offered by Saint Francis University faculty in a hybrid manner with regular
classes onsite at BG, along with electronic communications between the faculty member and students.
80% or higher in Algebra 2 is required for this course.
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GEOMETRY:
This course is designed to teach topics in geometry that include defining geometric terms, applying the
theorems of parallel lines to problem solving, proving triangles are congruent, applying properties to
parallelograms and other polygons, applying the Pythagorean Theorem to right triangles, using rules for
special right triangles to calculate sides, calculating angles of a circle, and calculating area and volume of
geometric figures, and the study of conic sections. Completion of Algebra I is required.
PRE-ALGEBRA:
This course is designed to teach students to be successful mathematics problem solvers. This course will
teach students to use variables and to solve single variable one-step equations. Emphasis will be placed
on evaluating integers and exponents, operations with rational numbers, percents, and inequalities
PROBABILITY AND STATISTICS:
This course is an introduction to the concepts of probability and statistics. It is designed to meet the
needs of students preparing to enter college in any field of study. Topics to be covered include sampling
methods, graphs/charts, data description, statistical measures, probability distributions, permutations, and
correlations. Successful completion of Algebra II is recommended.
NOTE: In general, there are three sequences in math:
*Pre-Algebra > Algebra I > Geometry > Algebra II
*Algebra I > Geometry > Algebra II > Algebra III/Trigonometry, College Statistics, or College Algebra
*Geometry > Algebra II > Algebra III/Trigonometry > College Algebra, Calculus I, Calculus AB, or
College Probability and Statistics
PROFESSOR-IN-RESIDENCE PROGRAMS
Professor-In-Residence courses are Dual Enrollment courses taught at Bishop
Guilfoyle by Saint Francis University professors.
Coursework and grading are therefore aligned with university policy standards.
*Dual Enrollment fees are required in order to receive credit for these courses*
HONORS COLLEGE PROBABILITY AND STATISTICS (Mandatory Dual Enrollment, GRADES
11-12):
The course is designed as an alternative to the traditional mathematics sequence leading to calculus. This
applied mathematics course is often required in many college majors in the sciences, health sciences, and
social sciences. The topics in the course include methods used in the collection, presentation, analysis
and interpretation of data, including experimental design, sampling theory, estimation theory, hypothesis
testing, regression, correlation, analysis of variance and nonparametric techniques. Computer analysis is
also required. It will be offered by Saint Francis University faculty in a hybrid manner with regular
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classes onsite at BG, along with electronic communications between the faculty member and students.
80% or higher in Algebra 2 is required for this course.
HONORS FINE ARTS: CULTURE AND VALUES
Ambialet, France Study Abroad (Mandatory Dual Enrollment, GRADES 11-12):
Additional application for acceptance to the program is required. Fees and expenses apply.
Student will receive one elective credit upon successful completion of this course.
Students will explore part of the rich cultural heritage of France, especially the area surrounding
Ambialet. Readings, lectures, and in-class discussion will provide background for understanding both the
historical and artistic importance of architecture, sculpture, and painting seen first-hand in site visits to
museums and medieval monuments. The coursework will include an option for a hands-on project—
drama, music, dance, visual arts—or an in-class presentation on one of a variety of topics. The course will
be delivered through a study abroad experience at the Saint Francis University facility in Ambialet,
France. The schedule will include one session prior to leaving for France, and travel to France will be
June 10-20, 2020 Rich in history, monuments, ruins and cathedrals, the Midi-Pyrenees, where the Saint
Francis University study abroad site is located, offers a perfect setting to observe, learn and reflect.
Participants will experience an intensive immersion into French culture, food, history and daily life. The
program is based in SFU's renovated monastery which sits high above the village of Ambialet. Daily
classroom sessions will be punctuated by numerous excursions to the locations being studied --
experiential learning at its best!
HONORS INTRODUCTION TO ENGINEERING AND S.T.E.M. (Mandatory Dual Enrollment,
GRADES 11-12):
Through a series of real-world projects students will experience the engineering design process, solving
engineering problems, use of drawing and design software tools, functioning within multidisciplinary
teams, consideration of professional and ethical responsibility, project management, technical writing and
verbal communication, creating reports and presentations. Projects will be chosen to integrate
engineering disciplines and concepts; typical examples include launching pumpkins, building Arduino-
based environmental sensors, or using 3-D printing to create scale-models of buildings. An 80% or
higher in Algebra II and Advanced Math/Geometry, and concurrent or previous enrollment in Pre-
Calculus are required for this course.
HONORS INTRODUCTION TO EXCEPTIONALITIES (Mandatory Dual Enrollment, GRADES 11-
12):
The course will introduce students to the diversity of children and adolescents in regard to cognitive,
behavioral and emotional differences, as well as differences in language and culture. This introductory
course relates strongly to careers in education, psychology, social work, occupational therapy, physical
therapy, etc. The legal basis for special education and accommodations will be studied, along with the
history of the special education movement. The 14 categories of exceptionality covered by the
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) will be closely examined. Understanding and
programming for the needs of students with disabilities, students who are gifted and those who are
English language learners will be addressed through explicit instruction, group activities, and authentic
assessments. Students will explore the variety of career opportunities in education and related careers
helping students with special needs. Included as part of this course are four hours of field experience
working with children on the autism spectrum. Students will be required to complete a background check
including state and federal clearances in order to complete the field work. This class will be offered by
Saint Francis University faculty in a hybrid manner with regular classes onsite at BG, along with
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electronic communications between the faculty member and students. Cumulative GPA of 80% or
higher is required for this course.
HONORS RELIGION SPECIAL TOPIC: THE SACRED JOURNEY
Gaming, Austria Study Abroad (Mandatory Dual Enrollment, GRADES 11-12):
Additional application for acceptance to the program is required. Fees and expenses apply.
Student will receive one elective credit upon successful completion of this course.
This course uses the religious concept of “the sacred journey” as a tool for contextualizing and
interpreting a study abroad trip to Gaming, Austria. We will begin by examining how “the hero’s
journey” has been a defining feature of the world’s religious traditions (East and West). We will then
explore how themes associate with this metanarrative have informed the framework of contemporary
films and literature. Students will then use these insights to make sense of their own journey to Austria
specifically and through life more generally. The course will be delivered through a study abroad
experience with Saint Francis University in Gaming, Austria at Franciscan University’s renovated 14th-
century monastery, Kartause, which sits in the foothills of the Alps. The schedule will include one
session prior to leaving for Austria, and while abroad daily classroom sessions will be punctuated with
awe-inspiring excursions. Travel will be June of 2021. Participants will experience an intensive
immersion into Austrian culture, food, history and daily life.
HONORS WALL STREET 101: BUSINESS IN A GLOBAL SOCIETY (Mandatory Dual
Enrollment, GRADES 11-12):
Provides a broad business perspective that considers the ancient and modern economic systems that
balance resource supply with human wants, the ethical and legal dimensions of business decisions, the
role of demographic diversity in a multicultural workforce, and how business operates in a global society.
It will be offered by Saint Francis University faculty in a hybrid manner with regular classes onsite at BG,
along with electronic communications between the faculty member and students. Cumulative GPA of
80% or higher is required for all this course.
RELIGION DEPARTMENT
BIBLICAL FAITH I & II (GRADES 9 - 10):
This course explores foundational aspects of the Catholic faith through the lens of Sacred Scripture.
Drawing on both the Old and New Testaments, students will examine the biblical basis for essential
Christian beliefs. Student participation and personal involvement help shape the content of class
discussions as we examine the most relevant aspects of the Catholic faith.
BUILDING CATHOLIC FLUENCY (GRADES 9-12):
This course is a Co-Requisite for English Language Development and is interspersed in the student’s
regularly scheduled ELD class period. The Building Catholic Fluency course is designed specifically for
the student whose primary home language is a language other than English. This course is taught by a PA
Certified English Language Program Specialist and is designed to provide students with an environment
for acquiring a Catholic vocabulary, while increasing their understanding of the Catholic faith and
comfort in a Catholic school environment.
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CATHOLIC DISCIPLESHIP (GRADES 10-12):
This special track is offered within our religion curriculum to offer students a unique formative
opportunity which combines academic learning with practical tools to live the life of a committed
Catholic adult. In Catholic Discipleship, students will focus on learning how to live, share, defend and
fully experience their Catholic faith in a way beyond what the standard religion classroom is able to offer.
Where our religion department offers quality academic formation in scripture, morality and the Christian
life, the Catholic Discipleship track utilizes the techniques of active ministry, special topics and projects,
student-led Q & A, and Christian fellowship to enable a deeper and more specialized experience.
Students may opt in any year it is possible for their schedule from grades 10-12, with the option of taking
a ‘year 2’ of Catholic Discipleship as well. With the Catholic Discipleship track, we hope to be helping
our students to become the next generation of Catholic men and women, Catholic families, Catholic
leaders and religious vocations in the Church.
CATHOLIC MINISTRY AND LEADERSHIP (GRADE 12):
This course is designed for Catholic students in their Senior year who are interested in developing skills
oriented towards evangelization, liturgy, prayer and leadership in the Church. This course consists largely
of hands-on experience and practice outside of the classroom, including projects to be undertaken outside
of school hours. Students will manage their time and studies on their own, meeting regularly with a
faculty mentor and building a ‘ministry portfolio’ throughout the year to achieve credit for the course.
Students must have completed at least one year of Catholic Discipleship and apply through campus
ministry for this course.
CATHOLIC MORAL THEOLOGY:
This course provides students with a foundation of moral theology in Catholic belief and thought, with an
emphasis on discovering what they are being called to as contemporary disciples of Jesus in the world.
Students explore decision-making in light of Christian doctrine with regard to current issues. Open
discussion with peers and teacher allows students to look seriously at issues through their own experience
while being exposed to the moral tradition of Catholicism over the last two millennia.
THE CHRISTIAN LIFE:
This class seeks to explore life in Christ in the light of Scripture, Church teaching, the modern world, and
the experiences that students bring to it. The mystery of Christ and our call to holiness in him is taught
and discussed in the context of intensive study and prayer, emphasizing the concepts of vocation,
discernment of God’s will, and the primacy of a personal relationship with Christ through his Church.
CHRISTIAN SERVICE AND FORMATION (GRADE 12):
This course is offered to non-Catholic students in their Senior year who would like to direct their religious
studies towards hands-on service opportunities and biblical enrichment. This course consists largely of
hands-on experience and practice outside of the classroom, including projects to be undertaken outside of
school hours. Students will manage their time and studies on their own, meeting regularly with a faculty
mentor and building both a ‘ministry portfolio’ and scriptural research project throughout the year to
achieve credit for the course. Students must have completed at least one year of Catholic Discipleship and
apply through campus ministry for this course.
COMMUNITY SERVICE AND RETREAT PROGRAMS (REQUIRED OF ALL):
These programs are an integral part of the religion curriculum. The Christian Service program helps
students to become aware of our responsibility as Christians to reach out to those in need in both parish
and local communities.
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All students are required to volunteer a minimum of 25 hours of service and to write a short reflection
paper on their service experiences each school year. Every student is also required to participate in a
yearly retreat offered through the Campus Ministry and Religion Departments. Academic work in
religion classes, retreat, and service requirements must be successfully fulfilled each year by all students
regardless of non-Catholic or non-Christian affiliation.
SCIENCE DEPARTMENT
ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY I/LAB (Dual Enrollment, GRADES 10-12):
This follow-up course to Biology is designed for students interested in pursuing health related programs
and fields. Topics include organization and structure, principles of support and movement, control
systems and maintenance systems of the human body with major emphasis on integrating and detailing
the structure and function of cells, tissues, organs, and systems. Frog and fetal pig dissections are
components of the laboratory experience of this course.
ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY II/LAB (Dual Enrollment, GRADE 12):
This course is designed as a continuation of Anatomy and Physiology I. The goal is to discuss the
systems not covered in Anatomy and Physiology I. Topics include history of medicine, lymphatic system
and immunity, respiratory system, urinary system, reproductive system, digestive system, and sensory
system. Dissections are a component of the laboratory experience of this course.
BIOLOGY/LAB:
This course will provide a fundamental approach to the study of living things and help to develop a
deeper understanding of the complex concepts in biology through unifying themes. The course will
follow a process approach, which emphasizes the activities of science and tries to place scientific
knowledge in the context of its discoveries. Emphasis will be placed on the foundations of biology,
biochemistry, cell biology, genetics, biotechnology, and evolution. Laboratories will be emphasized and
allow the student to experience the biological world and provide the opportunity to practice applying
process skills.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT® BIOLOGY/LAB (Dual Enrollment, GRADES 10-12):
This course is designed to be the equivalent of a college introductory biology course usually taken by
biology majors during their first year. It aims to provide students with the conceptual framework, factual
knowledge, and analytical skills necessary to deal critically with the rapidly changing science of biology.
The two main goals of AP® Biology are to help students develop a conceptual framework for modern
biology and to help students gain an appreciation of science as a process. In the spring, AP® Biology
students will take the examination from The College Board for possible college credit. This is a Dual
Enrollment course equivalent to four college credits. Successful completion of Biology and Chemistry is
required. Students are required to purchase their own textbooks and test for this course.
ECOLOGY/LAB (GRADES 10-12):
This course is an introduction to Ecology, Biodiversity and Evolution. Students will be involved in an in
depth, hands-on examination of each of the above topics. A passing grade in Biology is required.
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ADVANCED PLACEMENT® ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE/LAB (Dual Enrollment, GRADES
10-12):
This course is an interdisciplinary course providing students with the scientific principles, concepts, and
methodologies required to understand the interrelationships in the natural world. Students will first
investigate ecological and population biology principles in depth. Students will then learn to analyze
natural and human-induced environmental problems, to evaluate the relative risks associated with these
problems, and to examine alternative solutions for resolving and/or preventing them. Field work,
experimental design, and problem-solving skills are heavily stressed in this course. The course is designed
to be the equivalent of a one semester introductory environmental science college course and will be
taught as such. Successful completion of Chemistry is required. Students do not need to have taken
Ecology or Environmental Sustainability to take this course. Students are required to purchase their own
textbooks and test for this course.
ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY/LAB (Dual Enrollment, GRADES 11-12):
This course is an investigation into watershed dynamics, invasive ecology, decay and renewal, and
assessing toxicity. Students will be involved in an in depth, hands-on examination of each of the above
topics. This course is eligible for dual enrollment through Saint Francis University.
CHEMISTRY/LAB (GRADES 10-11):
This course in basic chemistry will provide a strong fundamental approach to chemistry. The extensive
use of investigations provides a strong, hands on approach to either introduce or reinforce key chemistry
ideas. Students develop critical thinking skills by applying theory in a practical situation. Students work
in groups to analyze data and explain the experimental data. Reading and studying outside of the
classroom is required for successful completion of this course. Completion of Algebra I and Biology is
required.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT® CHEMISTRY/LAB (Dual Enrollment, GRADES 10-12):
This dual enrollment course covers the basics of a first-year college chemistry class. Students are
introduced to a thorough foundation in theoretical and descriptive chemistry through strategic problem
solving and practical applications. This is a college Dual Enrollment course. Extensive reading and
studying outside of the classroom is required for successful completion of this course. Completion of
Chemistry is required. Students are required to purchase their own textbooks and test for this course.
FORENSIC SCIENCE/LAB (Dual Enrollment, GRADES 10-12):
Forensic science focuses on the skills and concepts behind crime scene investigation. This course will
apply the scientific method to combine both life and physical science. Students will see how science is
used to answer questions with an emphasis on case studies and engaging hands-on laboratory experiences.
MICROBIOLOGY (Dual Enrollment, GRADES 10-12):
Microbiology is the study of single celled and simple multi-celled organisms. This course is designed to
involve a more in depth look at cells and cellular processes. It is beneficial for all student interested in a
medical or science career. Course work will include a great deal of hands-on laboratory experiments
utilizing microbes.
PHYSICS/LAB (Dual Enrollment, GRADES 10-12):
This subject covers in detail such topics as scientific measurement, motion, force, phases of matter, heat,
sound, light, electricity, atomic structure, and nuclear reactions.
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ADVANCED PLACEMENT® PHYSICS/LAB 1:
This course is an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course. Students cultivate their
understanding of Physics through inquiry-based investigations as they explore topics such as Newtonian
mechanics (including rotational motion); work, energy, and power; mechanical waves and sound; and
introductory, simple circuits. Students are required to purchase the textbook and test for this course.
Successful completion of Algebra 2 and Geometry is required. Students taking AP Physics 1 are
encouraged, but not required, to take Physics/Lab as an introductory course.
ADD-ON SCIENTIFIC WRITING (GRADES 11-12):
This course aims to provide the foundations of effective scientific writing. Instruction will focus
primarily on the process of writing but reading and analysis of research materials will also be focused
upon. Students will learn the process of how to construct scientific documents worthy of publication.
Students will be actively writing scientific materials while referring to and examining primary sources
such as scientific journals. Students will use independent research projects and implement the skills and
techniques learned in this class to compose professionally written papers and reports. Students will take
part in classroom discussion as it pertains to each step of the writing, reading and research of scientific
materials. Upon completion of this full year add-on course, student will earn .5 credit.
SOCIAL STUDIES DEPARTMENT
ADVANCED PLACEMENT® EUROPEAN HISTORY (GRADES 10-12):
This course is an in-depth examination of European history from approximately 1400 to the present in
terms of intellectual, cultural, political, diplomatic, social, and economic history themes. The course
requires extensive reading, writing, and analysis of historical movements – their patterns, causes and
effects. Students are required to purchase their own textbooks and test for this course.
PERSONAL FINANCE (Required GRADE 11):
This semester course is part of a full-year requirement including one semester of Health and Physical
Education II. Students will receive .5 credit in Health and Physical Education and .5 credit in Personal
Finance. Students will look at costs of higher education, financial effects of employment choices, money
management techniques, as well as planning consumer purchases. Focus is placed on exploring the
students present and future role as a citizen, consumer, and family member in regard to making financial
choices. On-line summer scheduling of this offering is available for rising juniors.
PSYCHOLOGY (GRADES 10-12):
This year long course introduces the major areas of psychology. Beginning with a study of perception
and intelligence, it deals with such topics as interpreting what we sense, learning why we forget, IQ’s, and
creativity. It continues with the growth and development of persons from childhood to adulthood with
emphasis on the adolescent years. The course examines the roots of behavior, including emotions,
motivation, and states of consciousness like sleeping and dreaming, and the impact of biology on
behavior. An examination of personality development, abnormal behavior, and mental health is included
along with interpersonal relations, social behavior, and the effect of psychology on society.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT® PSYCHOLOGY (Dual Enrollment, GRADES 10-12):
This course is designed to introduce students to the systematic and scientific study of the behavior and
mental processes of human beings and other animals. Students are exposed to the psychological facts,
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principles, and phenomena associated with each of the major subfields within psychology. They also
learn about the ethics and methods psychologists use in their science and practice. The aim of the course
is to provide the student with a learning experience equivalent to that obtained in most college
introductory psychology courses. This course requires students to purchase their own AP Psychology
textbook as assigned by their teacher, Students are also required to purchase the test for this course.
SOCIOLOGY AND SOCIAL PROBLEMS (GRADES 10-12):
Exploring the ways people interact, students in this yearlong course study relationships within groups, in
social institutions, and in organizations of societies. The class also deals with vital issues in current
social problems. It is intended to increase students’ understanding of human relationships and how they
affect and are affected by the problems of society. It includes an examination of social problems in
American society and their sources, covering such areas as juvenile delinquency, urban minorities,
marriage, sexism, and population.
UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT/ECONOMICS (REQUIRED GRADE 11):
This year long course examines some major social influences on the student and the workings of
government. The U.S. Constitution is used to study national government structure and content. Students
are provided with a view of how government works and what is expected of them in the governmental
framework after graduation. The introductory course in micro-economics helps students recognize the
relationships between producer and consumer. Market forces are highlighted by exploring the
relationship between supply and demand and the principles that drive business and consumer choices. The
role of the government in shaping the economy is investigated as well as the impact of entrepreneurs and
the structure of U.S. business types.
UNITED STATES HISTORY II (REQUIRED GRADE 9):
This year long course is a chronological examination of United States history from 1860 to the present
with most emphasis placed on twentieth century and contemporary history. Major emphasis is given to
concepts and ideas which cross time periods and can be applied to various situations in history. Students
are required to take part in a variety of activities including note taking, class discussions, reading, written
reports, written summaries, and class participation.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT® UNITED STATES HISTORY (Dual Enrollment, GRADES 9-12):
This college level course is designed for high-achieving high school students who are primarily
sophomores. This course will examine all aspects of American history including but not limited to the
political, social, intellectual, technological, diplomatic and economic history of the United States, as well
as chronologically address all of the major eras of American history from colonization to modern times.
This course offers four basic objectives for students: Trace American history from the development of
the colonies to the modern era; Develop an ability to write not only to communicate but also to persuade;
Develop critical thinking skills using history as a basic tool to trace a variety of themes over the duration
of the course; and use the skills necessary to succeed on the Advanced Placement® National Exam given
annually in May. These skills include demonstration of an understanding of historical chronology, using
historical data to support an argument or position, differentiation between various themes and concepts,
interpret and apply data from original documents, and effectively employ analytical skills of evaluation
such as cause and effect, and comparison and contrast. Students are required to purchase their own
textbooks and test for this course.
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WORLD HISTORY (REQUIRED GRADE 10):
World History will give students a broad view of the various civilizations, empires and political struggles
that have encompassed mankind for thousands of years. Those who are aspiring to take this class should
expect to learn about the major political entities of each continent, starting from ancient times and leading
towards the modern-day industrialized countries. This class will challenge students to connect concepts
throughout history and make generalizations across time periods. Students who are eager to learn across
a wide realm of history will enjoy this challenge.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT® WORLD HISTORY (GRADES 10-12):
This course offers a wide variety of historical text and gives a summation of how the world evolved into
the one humans encompass today. Students in this course can expect to learn about the six different
periods in history, which includes how humans interacted with the environment, human conflict, and the
expansion of economic systems. Those who take this course should expect nightly homework, research
papers and exams that will prepare the student for the AP® Exam at year’s end. All participants in this
course are expected to have the ability to craft historical arguments using chronological reasoning,
historical interpretation and synthesis. Students are required to purchase their own textbooks and test for
this course.
VOCATIONAL – TECHNICAL – SPECIAL PROGRAMS
ACADEMIC FLEX PROGRAM
The Academic Flex Program provides students, with evidenced successful performance, the opportunity
to manage their course workload for individual academic success. Applications for Academic Flex are
available in the counseling office for students enrolled in at least one college in high school course with a
current minimum GPA of 85%.
Students utilizing the Academic Flex Time Program will report to the school library.
Students are expected to be engaged in academic studies the entire time they are utilizing class time for
Academic Flex Time.
DRIVER EDUCATION (Students with a PA learner’s permit):
Driver education courses are available through Altoona Area High School or Brant’s Driving School, Inc.
Interested students should contact AAHS or Brant’s Driving School, Inc. to enroll in the course and
request that final documentation be sent to the Bishop Guilfoyle counseling office upon completion of the
course. Students will receive .25 credits on their transcript. Completion of this course does not affect
rank or GPA.
GREATER ALTOONA CAREER AND TECHNOLOGY CENTER (GRADES 10-12):
The Greater Altoona Career and Technology Center (GACTC) is available for students wishing to
combine a vocational-technical program and an academic program. Some sacrifices in the selection of
courses and graduation requirements at Bishop Guilfoyle High School are necessary. Specific information
is available from the Counseling Office. Some graduation requirements are waived because of the
abbreviated schedule at BG; however, all state requirements for graduation are fulfilled.
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LEADERSHIP BLAIR COUNTY YOUTH
Applications are available in the counseling office for rising sophomore students. Upon completion of the
program, students will earn a passing grade “P” and .5 elective credit on their transcript. Completion of
this course does not affect rank or GPA.
Leadership Blair County Youth is a program that works to develop the leadership potential of 10th grade
students of high schools in Blair County, as well as educate the students on the county’s heritage, culture
and work force opportunities.
The Blair County Chamber of Commerce with its continued commitment to the betterment of our county
has developed this program, modeled after our successful adult program, to assist in the development of
our youth to become leaders within their schools, communities and the entire county.
It is the mission of Leadership Blair County Youth to develop the leadership potential that exists in tenth
grade students from all of the high schools in Blair County, as well as educate these students about Blair
County’s heritage, culture and workforce opportunities. The goal is to instill a sense of civic pride and
community involvement in these students. A key component of the program is behavior modeling, so that
the students will take their leadership skills back to their respective schools and encourage other students
to reach their potential and become involved in their schools and community. Students will become more
aware of their environment and their ability to impact it.
Program Goals:
Teach students that they have the capability to make a difference in their communities
Instill a desire to stay in our community and be a positive force
Realize they are a valuable resource of energy, time and talent
Realize they have the potential to develop into positive contributors to our communities
Learn through involvement and experience, being treated with respect as equal partners
Instill an eagerness to learn about leadership skills and their communities
PLANNED VIRTUAL EDUCATION DAYS
Planned Virtual Education Days are included on the school calendar and required of all students.
Students preselect a cross-curricular project to complete on each planned virtual day from our catalog of
projects. Planned virtual day grades are included in the GPA calculation and, upon receiving a final
grade, students will also earn .25 elective credits.
SHEETZ SCHOOL AND CAREER SCHOLARZ PROGRAM:
The Sheetz School & Career Scholarz Program has been designed to help students develop and grow so
they ultimately become highly successful in their chosen careers. In this always on 24/7 world, access to
learning is constant, and past distinctions between education and work have changed dramatically.
Offering students a way to experience success early and develop the most important skills they will need
for ongoing success is the purpose of this program. The program combines traditional classroom
instruction, experiential learning on the job, exposure to college level curriculum, and growing through
mentorship. The program allows talented and interested high school students to complete their high
school curriculum, while working and training at Sheetz store locations, and earning college credits to
develop as leaders within the Sheetz corporation or in their chosen profession. Selected students will
participate in the Sheetz training program, gain experience in a Sheetz convenience store location, receive
mentoring from a Sheetz supervisor, and earn University credits all during their high school career.
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YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS ACADEMY (Dual Enrollment is available)
Applications are available to all students on The Blair County Chamber’s website. Upon completion of
the program, students will earn a passing grade “P” and 1 elective credit on their transcript. Completion of
this course does not affect rank or GPA.
The Young Entrepreneurs Academy, or YEA!, is a class that teaches students how to start and run their
own business, or non-profit organization. The class meets weekly for 25 weeks and is offered locally at
Penn State Altoona’s Sheetz Entrepreneurial Center.
The YEA! class provides students with introductions to local entrepreneurs and business leaders; exciting
field trips to businesses for a behind-the-scenes experience; and meetings with attorneys, accountants,
marketing professionals, graphic designers, manufacturers, internet specialists, and more. All of the
resources that students need to start their own businesses are provided—students just need the drive,
motivation and enthusiasm to make it happen!
Students will prepare a real business plan and pitch their plan to investors for funding. Think “Shark
Tank” meets “The Apprentice”—the YEA! class teaches students how to embrace their passion, live their
dream, and change the world.
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ASSOCIATE OF ARTS IN LIBERAL ARTS WITH A HUMANITIES AND
SOCIAL SCIENCES SPECIALIZATION
Mount Aloysius College and Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School agree that a student may earn an
Associate of Arts in Liberal Studies with a specialization in Humanities and Social Science while
enrolled in high school with the completion of at least 61-63 credits, a grade of C in all major course
work, and a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 by the end of the student’s senior year of high school.
The Liberal Arts curriculum begins with a broad core of instruction in the humanities, behavioral/social
sciences, and natural sciences. The courses provide students with a well-rounded academic experience
and give them much flexibility in designing their personalized programs.
A student who is interested in pursuing an additional degree from Mount Aloysius College should consult
with a representative of the Office of Undergraduate Admissions to review the degree requirements and
plan of study for the degree. Students must meet Mount Aloysius College admission requirements in
place at the time they apply for admission to the institution.
Associate of Arts
Humanities and Social Sciences: Students must complete at least 15 credits in the humanities and/or
social science areas with a “C” or better and meet all other associate degree requirements.
Program Goals:
• communicate information clearly and effectively both orally and in writing;
• demonstrate an understanding of quantitative, scientific and/or qualitative reasoning;
• demonstrate an appropriate base of content knowledge of the Humanities and Social Sciences; and
• articulate one’s own moral and ethical perspectives.
ASSOCIATES DEGREE CORE COURSE REQUIREMENTS
Credits
College Foundation LA 101 1
LA 201 1
Communication/Writing EN 110 3
EN 111 3
Art/English/Music/Theatre/Social Science AR, EN, MU, TH, PY, SO, WS 3
History/Political Science HS, PS 3
Science/Math BL, CH, CM, SC 3-4
Information Communication Technologies ICT 101 1
ICT 205 1
Religious Studies RS 3
Cultural Diversity AR 109 3
Total credits in core 25-26
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ASSOCIATES DEGREE MAJOR COURSE REQUIREMENTS
Credits
LA 210 Liberal Arts Seminar 1
Humanities and Social Science Specialization 15
AC, AN, AR, ASL, BU, CR, CS, EC, ED, EN, GE, HCA, HS, ICT, LW, MU, PL, PS,
PY, RS, SO, TH, WS. (EN 110, EN 111, ICT 101, and ICT 205 do not apply to major
course requirements)
Total credits in major and specialization 16
Total credits for free electives 20-21
Total credits for degree 61-63
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS OF PRESCRIBED MOUNT ALOUSIUS COURSES
AR 109 Survey of Art: A Cross-Cultural Approach.................................................................. 3 Credits
This course provides students with a basic understanding of the visual arts from a cross-cultural
perspective. The first half of the course deals with the nature of art, the evaluation of art, and the
principles, processes, and materials of art. The second half of the semester is spent in a study of world art
including an overview of western art from pre-historic times through the 20th century.
EN 110 Rhetoric I ........................................................................................................................... 3 Credits
Required of all students, this course involves critical reading, listening, writing, speaking, and research.
The concept of critical and evaluative thinking underlies all of the activities of the course.
EN 111 Rhetoric II ......................................................................................................................... 3 Credits
Building on the students’ experiences in Rhetoric I, this course emphasizes research in constructing
arguments, metacognition in questioning and supporting intellectual positions, and refinements in style
and tone in speaking and writing. This course may be designated as honors only. Prerequisite: EN 110
EN 260 Public Speaking ................................................................................................................ 3 Credits
This course will focus on enhancing the student’s public speaking skills in dealing with stage fright,
choosing and researching speech material, types of speeches and their delivery, and use of visual aids.
ICT 101 Information Literacy ....................................................................................................... 1 Credit
The goal of this course is to improve students’ abilities to use a variety of digital tools to define, access,
manage, integrate, evaluate, create, and communicate information in ethically and legally responsible
ways. Students will learn about effective research strategies and practice beyond simple Internet
searching through completion of real-world tasks.
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ICT 201 Emerging Information Technologies .............................................................................. 1 Credit
The goal of this course is to improve students’ abilities to use a variety of digital tools to define, access,
manage, integrate, evaluate, create, and communicate information in ethically and legally responsible
ways beyond the lower level information and communication technology courses. Students will learn
about a broad spectrum of current digital technologies and will apply them to professional and personal
goals through completion of real-world tasks. Prerequisite: ICT 101.
ICT 205 Writing Applications ....................................................................................................... 1 Credit
The goal of this course is to improve students’ abilities to use digital writing tools to define, access,
manage, integrate, evaluate, create, and communicate information in ethically and legally responsible
ways beyond the lower level information and communication technology courses. Students will learn
about current word-processing programs and related skills and will apply them to professional and
personal goals through completion of real-world tasks. Students are expected to be proficient in basic
document creation and use prior to taking this course. Prerequisite: ICT 101.
ICT 210 Presenting in Today’s World .......................................................................................... 1 Credit
The goal of this course is to improve students’ abilities to use digital presentation tools to define, access,
manage, integrate, evaluate, create, and communicate information in ethically and legally responsible
ways beyond the lower level information and communication technology courses. Students will learn
about current presentation programs and related skills and will apply them to professional and personal
goals through completion of real-world tasks. Prerequisite: ICT 101.
ICT 215 Spreadsheet Applications ................................................................................................ 1 Credit
The goal of this course is to improve students’ abilities to use digital spreadsheet tools to define, access,
manage, integrate, evaluate, create, and communicate information in ethically and legally responsible
ways beyond the lower level information and communication technology courses. Students will learn
about current spreadsheet programs and related skills and will apply them to professional and personal
goals through completion of real-world tasks. Prerequisite: ICT 101.
ICT 220 Google in Education and Beyond .................................................................................. 1 Credit
The goal of this course is to improve students’ abilities to use Google tools to define, access, manage,
integrate, evaluate, create, and communicate information in ethically and legally responsible ways beyond
the lower level information and communication technology courses. Students will learn about current
offerings of the Google Apps Suite and other products and related skills and will apply them to
professional and personal goals through completion of real-world tasks. Prerequisite: ICT 101
ICT 225 Database Applications ..................................................................................................... 1 Credit
The goal of this course is to improve students’ abilities to use digital database tools to define, access,
manage, integrate, evaluate, create, and communicate information in ethically and legally responsible
ways beyond the lower level information and communication technology courses. Students will learn
about current database programs and related skills and will apply them to professional and personal goals
through completion of real-world tasks. Prerequisite: ICT 101.
LA 101 Connections I: Self and Community ................................................................................ 1 Credit
The purpose of this class is to integrate first year students into the community of thinkers and learners. It
is an inquiry into the academic expectations, resources, and traditions of Mount Aloysius College.
Students are challenged to enhance their intellectual potential, understand their academic and moral
responsibilities, and appreciate diversity in a framework that develops the critical thinking, learning, and
communication skills necessary to contribute successfully to the college’s intellectual life. This course
may be designated as an Honors Program only.
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LA 105 Personal Strategic Planning .............................................................................................. 1 Credit
This course teaches students a systematic approach to making career-related decisions, setting goals, and
devising strategies to attain these goals. This process will enable students to explore appropriate career
options and the fundamentals of professional career development through the use of technology, research,
and self-exploration, and group interaction and projects.
LA 120 Tri-County Leadership Institute for High School Students ......................................... 2 Credits
Students will learn professional networking, character building, leadership, management style, and
internships. The curriculum is specifically designed to offer hands-on learning experiences with local
business and civic leaders. The lessons will reflect the goals of the Youthful Direction Initiative aimed at
increasing civic pride and keeping our emerging leaders here in our community where we need them.
Prerequisite: acceptance into the program.
LA 201 Connections II: Self and Learning ................................................................................... 1 Credit
The purpose of this class is to develop the critical reading, thinking, and writing skills of the sophomore
student. Reading assignments, group discussions, and writing exercises in this course are designed to
improve reading comprehension, oral communication, and expository writing. Students will develop the
skills necessary for full participation in the academic dialogue of the college. This course may be
designated as an Honors Program only. Prerequisites: LA 101 and entering the next semester with
sophomore standing (30 credits earned). This course is to be taken in the student’s sophomore year.
Prerequisite: LA101
LA 210 Liberal Arts Seminar ........................................................................................................ 1 Credit
The purpose of this class is to facilitate students in assembling, submitting and creating materials that will
demonstrate that they have met the program goals of their specific Liberal Arts associate degree. Students
will be expected to both create original written and researched material for the course and to assemble and
submit previously graded material from other courses such as research papers, exams, lab reports, clinical
evaluations, etc.
PS 203 American National Government ...................................................................................... 3 Credits
The basic principles underlying the formation and function of the American government in its legislative,
judicial, and executive branches.
PY 102 Human Growth and Development .................................................................................. 3 Credits
This course is designed to explore the well-established knowledge about the development process in
humans throughout the stages of life. Emphasis is placed on the major theories concerning growth in
various aspects of life: cognitive, social, personality, physical and moral development. Prerequisite: PY
101.
RS 206 World Religions ................................................................................................................. 3 Credits
This course will consider important religious experiences of humankind in different cultures of the world.
The course will offer a thematic treatment of the fundamental tenets, beliefs, insights, and ideals of
animism, Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Some treatment will be given to topics,
issues, and trends in religion today.
SO 101 Introductory Sociology ..................................................................................................... 3 Credits
The purpose of the course is to make students aware of American society and those characteristics which
influence societal differences.
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Degree and Course Analysis
Core
Course Credits Year Completed Institutional
Credit
LA 101 1 Freshman MAC
LA 201 1 Senior MAC
EN 110 3 Junior MAC
EN 111 3 Senior MAC
PY 101 3 Sophomore MAC
HS/PS 3 Freshman MAC
Science/Math 3-4 Junior SFU
ICT 101 1 Freshman MAC
ICT 205 1 Freshman MAC
RS 202 3 Senior MAC
AR 109 3 Freshman MAC
25-26
Major & Specialization
Course Credits Year Completed Institution
RS 206 3 Summer before
Sophomore MAC
PS 203 3 Sophomore MAC
EN 260 3 Sophomore MAC
PY 102 3 Junior MAC
SO 101 3 Junior MAC
LA 210 1 Senior MAC
16
Electives
Course Credits Year Completed Institution
LA 120 2 Summer before Junior MAC
LA 105 1 Senior MAC
ICT 2xx Elective 2 Sophomore & Junior MAC
PY 206 3 Junior SFU
Elective 3 Junior MAC
Elective 3 Senior MAC
Math Course 3 Senior SFU
Science Course 3-4 Senior SFU
20-21
Totals
Component Credits Credit Type Credits
Core 25-26 Mount Aloysius College 49
Major/Specialization 16 Saint Francis University 12-14
Electives 20-21 Total 61-63 61-63
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Yearly Sequencing
Freshman Year: Course ID Course Name Credits Semester Format Accelerated Component Institution
HS 202 BG: US History MAC: US History Since 1877
3 Year Dual Enrollment No Core Mount Aloysius College
LA 101 Connections I: Self and Community 1 1st 8 weeks fall Online Yes Core Mount Aloysius College
ICT 101 Information Literacy 1 2nd 8 weeks fall Online Yes Core Mount Aloysius College
ICT 205 Writing Applications 1 1st 8 weeks spring Online Yes Elective Mount Aloysius College
AR 109 Survey of Art: A Cross-cultural Approach 3 2nd 8 week spring Online Yes Core Mount Aloysius College
Total 9
Summer Course between Freshman and Sophomore Year: Course ID Course Name Credits Semester Format Accelerated Component Institution
RS 206 World Religions 3 Summer Online Yes Major Mount Aloysius College
Total 3
Sophomore Year: Course ID Course Name Credits Semester Format Accelerated Component Institution
PS 203 American National Government 3 1st 8 weeks fall Online Yes Major Mount Aloysius College
ICT 2xx 200 Level ICT Elective 1 2nd 8 weeks fall Online Yes Core Mount Aloysius College
EN 260 Public Speaking 3 Semester In Person No Major Mount Aloysius College
PY 101 BG: AP Psychology MAC: General Psychology
3 Year Dual Enrollment No Core Mount Aloysius College
Total 10
Summer Course between Sophomore and Junior Year: Course ID Course Name Credits Semester Format Accelerated Component Institution
LA 120 Leadership Course 2 Summer In Person No Elective Mount Aloysius College
Total 2
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Junior Year: Course ID Course Name Credits Semester Format Accelerated Component Institution
EN 110 BG: AP Language and Composition MAC: Rhetoric I
3 Year Dual Enrollment No Core Mount Aloysius College
Science Choice
BG: AP Biology, AP Chemistry, Physics, Environmental Science, or Anatomy and Physiology MAC: BL 101 (4 cr.), CH 101 (4 cr.), SC 105 (4 cr.), SC Elective (3 cr.), or BL 201 (4 cr.)
3-4 Year Dual Enrollment No Core Saint Francis University
PY 206 BG: Introductions to Exceptionalities MAC: Psychology of Exceptional Children
3 Year Dual Enrollment No Elective Saint Francis University
PY 102 Human Growth and Development 3 1st 8 week fall Online Yes Major Mount Aloysius College
ICT 2xx 200 Level ICT Elective 1 2nd 8 weeks fall Online Yes Core Mount Aloysius College
SO 101 Introduction to Sociology 3 1st 8 weeks spring Online Yes Major Mount Aloysius College
Elective Student Chooses an Elective Course 3 2nd 8 weeks spring Online Yes Elective Mount Aloysius College
Total 19-20
Senior Year: Course ID Course Name Credits Semester Format Accelerated Component Institution
EN 111 BG: AP Literature and Composition MAC: Rhetoric II
3 Year Dual Enrollment No Elective Mount Aloysius College
RS 202 BG: Religion IV MAC: Christian Moral Theology
3 Year Dual Enrollment No Core Mount Aloysius College
College Math
Choice
BG: Pre-Calculus, College Probability/Statistics, Calculus MAC: CM 113, CM 220, or CM 117
3 Year Dual Enrollment No Elective Saint Francis University
Science Choice
BG: AP Biology, AP Chemistry, Physics, Environmental Science, or Anatomy and Physiology MAC: BL 101 (4 cr.), CH 101 (4 cr.), SC 105 (4 cr.), SC Elective (3 cr.), or BL 201 (4 cr.)
3-4 Year Dual Enrollment No Elective Saint Francis University
Elective Student Chooses an Elective Course 3 1st 8 weeks fall Online Yes Core Mount Aloysius College
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LA 201 Connections II: Self and Learning 1 2nd 8 weeks fall Online Yes Core Mount Aloysius College
LA 105 Personal Strategic Planning 1 1st 8 weeks spring Online Yes Elective Mount Aloysius College
LA 210 Liberal Arts Seminar 1 2nd 8 weeks spring Online Yes Major Mount Aloysius College
Total 18-19
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Appendix A
Department Codes
Code Department
AC Accounting AN Anthropology AR Art ASL American Sign Language BL Biology BU Business Administration CH Chemistry CM College Math CR Criminology CS Computer Science EC Economics ED Education EN Rhetoric GE Geography
HCA Health Care Administration HS History ICT Information Communication Technologies LA Liberal Arts LW Law MU Music PL Philosophy PS Political Science PY Psychology RS Religious Studies SC Science SO Sociology TH Theater WS Women's Studies
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Appendix B
Degree Matriculation Chart
Upon completion of the Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts, a student may choose to matriculate full time at
Mount Aloysius College to apply the earned credits towards another associate or bachelor’s degree. The
completion of this degree should aid in a shorter plan for degree completion. However, some associate
programs with prescribe semester sequences due related to accreditation and clinical progress will not
allow for a faster route to the degree completion. The list below represents associate and bachelor’s
degree program that may be completed in an accelerated manner:
Associate Degree Programs 2-3 Semesters
Bachelor’s degree Programs
4-6 Semesters Business Administration Accounting
Criminology Biology Early Childhood Education Business Administration
Information Technology Criminology Legal Studies Education
Medical Assistant English Surgical Technologies General Science
History/Political Science
Associate Degree Programs 4 Semesters
Information Technology
Interdisciplinary Studies
Medical Imaging* Medical Imaging Nursing Nursing
Medical Laboratory Technician* Pre-Law
Physical Therapy Assistant* Psychology Ultrasonography** Ultrasonography
* These programs require summer coursework.
** This program is a three year associate degree with specific pre-requisite courses, which may result in additional semesters.
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JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL
COURSE REQUIREMENTS
PRE-AP® PROGRAM
PRE-AP SEVENTH GRADE
• Religion – Religion Foundation: An Overview of
Faith
• English – Pre-AP® English and Language Arts Level I
• Mathematics – Pre-AP® Algebra I
• Social Studies – World Geography and Cultures
• Science – Pre-AP® Chemistry and Physics
• Foreign Language – Chinese or Spanish
• T.E.A.M. – 2-period rotations of:
Art / Music / Theater / Pre-AP CollegeBoard
and
PE / Advisory / Tech. / Conference
PRE-AP EIGHTH GRADE
• Religion – Religion Foundation: An Overview of
Faith
• English – Pre-AP® English and Language Arts Level II
• Mathematics – Geometry
• Social Studies – Pre-AP® United States History
(AP U.S. History is required in grade 9)
• Science – Pre-AP® Biology
(AP Biology is required in grade 10)
• Foreign Language – Chinese or Spanish
• T.E.A.M – 2-period rotations of:
Art / Music / Theater / Pre-AP CollegeBoard
and
PE / Advisory / Tech. / Conference
NINTH GRADE
• Religion – Biblical Faith I and II
• English – Connecting Content through Literature
• Mathematics – Algebra II
• Social Studies – AP® U.S. History
• Science – Chemistry/Lab
• Foreign Language – Chinese or Spanish
• Arts and Humanities – One required choice from
visual art labs or performing arts offerings
• Health and Physical Education – Health/
Physical Education I
• Career Focus/Electives – Introduction to
Computer Science and Coding
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COURSE REQUIREMENTS
7TH AND 8TH GRADE
SEVENTH GRADE
• Religion – Fundamental of Faith
• English –7th English and Language Arts
• Mathematics – 7th Grade Mathematics, Pre-
Algebra, Algebra I
• Social Studies – World Geography and Cultures
• Science – Integrated Science
• Conference
• T.E.A.M. – 2-period rotations of:
Art / Music / Theater / Pre-AP CollegeBoard
and
PE / Advisory / Tech. / Intro. to World Cultures
EIGHTH GRADE
• Religion – Fundamentals of Faith
• English – 8th English and Language Arts
• Mathematics – Algebra I, Geometry
• Social Studies – U.S History I
• Science – Introduction to Chemistry and Physics
• Foreign Language – Chinese or Spanish
• T.E.A.M. – 2-period rotations of:
Art / Music / Theater / Pre-AP CollegeBoard
and
PE / Advisory / Tech. / Conference
JUNIOR HIGH COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
PRE-ADVANCED PLACEMENT® PREPARATORY PROGRAM
The vision of the Pre-Advanced Placement Preparatory Program is to provide a rigorous learning
environment that fosters educational growth on multiple levels. A major focus of this accelerated
program is to challenge the student’s scholarly potential. The goal of the program is to identify academic
enrichment that stimulates your child’s passion for learning.
Classes are designed to establish strategies and methods for acquiring in-depth knowledge that centers on
critical thinking skills. The course work requires students to demonstrate higher level thinking through a
variety of assessments that exemplify the profile of the accelerated learner.
PRE-AP® ENGLISH AND LANGUAGE ARTS
PRE-AP® ENGLISH AND LANGUAGE ARTS LEVEL I:
Students will develop the literacy skills, academic habits and critical strategies needed to succeed in
rigorous academic courses. Students will read, with a focus on critical analysis, a variety of challenging
fiction and nonfiction texts. Students will also practice composition strategies, build an understanding of
grammar, and develop academic vocabulary. The depth of content covered is designed to prepare students
for Advanced Placement® courses in high school.
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PRE-AP® ENGLISH AND LANGUAGE ARTS LEVEL II:
Students will develop the literacy skills, academic habits and critical strategies needed to succeed in
rigorous academic courses. Students will read, with a focus on critical analysis, a variety of challenging
fiction and nonfiction text. Students will also practice composition strategies, build an understanding of
grammar, and develop academic vocabulary. The depth of content covered is designed to prepare students
for Advanced Placement® courses in high school.
PRE-AP® MATHEMATICS
PRE-AP® ALGEBRA I:
This course is designed to teach topics of Algebra I that include adding, subtracting, multiplying and
dividing real numbers; performing the order of operations; solving equations and inequalities; writing
functions; identifying linear functions; graphing linear equations; solving systems of equations by
substitution and elimination; performing properties of exponents; adding and multiplying polynomials;
factoring trinomials; adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing radical expressions; and an
introduction to adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing rational expressions
GEOMETRY:
This course is designed to teach topics in geometry that include defining geometric terms, applying the
theorems of parallel lines to problem solving, proving triangles are congruent, applying properties to
parallelograms and other polygons, applying the Pythagorean Theorem to right triangles, using rules for
special right triangles to calculate sides, calculating angles of a circle, and calculating area and volume of
geometric figures, and the study of conic sections. Completion of Algebra I is required.
PRE-AP® ALGEBRA II:
This course is designed to teach topics in Algebra II that include operations with equations and
inequalities; linear relations and functions; systems of equations and inequalities; matrices; quadratic
functions and inequalities; polynomial functions; radical expressions, equations and inequalities;
advanced functions and relations; rational expressions, equations and inequalities.
RELIGION FOUNDATIONS: AN OVERVIEW OF FAITH
Students will explore the basic tenets of Catholicism through an academic study of its foundational
doctrines and practices. This will then be systematically applied to a thorough exploration of the Catholic
worldview through a special literary and multimedia program. Besides the standard academic study and
assessments, students will be expected to engage in creative writing, literary analysis, service and
multimedia work of their own in order to demonstrate their mastery of the subject matter in numerous
facets throughout the year.
PRE-AP® SCIENCE
PRE-AP® CHEMISTRY AND PHYSICS:
A Natural Approach to Chemistry and Physics Principles and Problems: This course follows a guided-
inquiry based instructional strategy that provides students with a direct experience with scientific
processes and how they are related to their world. A comprehensive overview of the main themes in
chemistry is presented that includes the atomic nature of matter, systems, temperature and energy. In
depth coverage of the core concepts of chemistry such as atomic structure, the Periodic Table,
compounds, molecules, solutions, bonding, and chemical reactions are taught. The physics component
includes an extensive study into the science of kinematics and dynamics, waves, light, energy, and
electricity. Algebra-based quantitative problem solving is an integral component. Instructional strategies
include: inquiry, science literacy, STEM, and critical thinking.
PRE-AP® BIOLOGY:
Science and Global Issues in Biology: This course follows a research-based approach to understanding
the living world around us. It emphasizes student-centered inquiry directed toward today’s issues in the
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world. A comprehensive overview of the main themes in biology is presented that includes sustainability,
ecology, cell biology, world health, genetics, feeding the world, evolution, and maintaining diversity.
Instructional strategies include: inquiry, science literacy, STEM, and critical thinking.
PRE-AP® SOCIAL STUDIES
WORLD GEOGRAPHY AND CULTURES:
In this class we will examine the various countries that encompass our Earth. Students should expect to
learn about various cultures, economies, government and landscape. Key concepts learned throughout the
year will incorporate general understanding of map reading and how people across the world live off the
environment around them. Students whom enroll in this class should expect an entertaining learning
environment with collaborative assignments, independent exams and research papers.
PRE-AP® U.S. HISTORY:
This course will encompass an in-depth look at Pre-Civil War America. Students will learn about the
early civilizations in the Americas, the French and Indian War, Revolutionary War, and the earliest years
of a young United States being developed before the Civil war. This class offers students an intensive
course of study and will take on many of the same characteristics of an Advance Placement® course.
Students of this class should expect homework on a nightly basis, monthly research papers and thorough
examinations on multiple chapters and concepts.
WORLD LANGUAGES: Foreign language skills will be achieved through oral, written, listening and reading activities. Cultural
awareness and understanding will also play an important role. Students will apply critical thinking skills
while mastering the target language. All instructional activities guide students to proficiency in the
language. Languages offered include: Chinese and Spanish
T.E.A.M (GRADE 7 and 8): This two-period rotation includes PE (2 days)/Advisory (1
day)/Technology (1 day)/ Conference (1 day), and Art/Music/Theater/Pre-AP College Board (1
quarter each)
ADVISORY: (GRADES 7-8) Students will develop their social, personal, and academic skills through
advising and class activities. Students will use this class as a space to practice these skills and identify
their strengths and weaknesses. This course is an aid to students in their development while in a
demanding and fast-paced environment. Examples of lessons include study skills, time management,
college/career exploration, and building peer relationships.
CONFERENCE PERIOD: (GRADES 7-8) The Conference Period is a course where students are
afforded time for academic and organizational skill development. Class time is provided for
individualized study plans, specific study techniques, time management, reading textbooks, taking
notes, reviewing notes, test preparation, concentration, use of online sources, and managing homework
and self-advocacy skills.
INTRODUCTION TO ART: (GRADES 7-8) Introduction to Art is an entry level studio art course
designed to expose students to the basic skills, concepts, and history of the visual arts through the
creation of original pieces of artwork, using a variety of mediums. This course is specifically designed
for the novice artist. Students will develop a sense of pride for what they are able to create, regardless
of their artistic ability and will gain a greater appreciation for the arts, in general.
INTRODUCTION TO DRAMA: (GRADES 7-8) In this course, students will be introduced to the
history of theater, the different classifications of theater, and famous playwrights. Students will also be
taught all of the different aspects of theater production. Students will have many opportunities to
perform parts of plays or full-length plays. Students will be responsible for reading, writing and
analyzing different plays.
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INTRODUCTION TO MUSIC: (GRADES 7-8) This course introduces students to, and each
succeeding year builds upon, the understanding of musical concepts necessary to appreciate music from
many genres, composers, and historical periods of music. Through hands-on performing and listening
experiences, students gain knowledge of music theory and historical context through musical notation
and analysis of the aural components of music. Other concepts will include scales, chords, structure and
contextual analysis.
iPads IN EDUCATION: (GRADE 7) This course is designed to support students as they are first
introduced to Bishop Guilfoyle’s one-to-one iPad culture. Students learn to apply the creative and
productive use of iPad technology for educational use. They will utilize various applications to access
email, take notes, to create presentations, create photo collages, enhance photos, and create videos.
Legal, social and ethical issues related to the use of the computers will be reinforced as well as Internet
Safety.
MICROSOFT ESSENTIALS: (GRADE 8) This course is designed for students to utilize the Microsoft
Programs: Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, Publisher, excel, and OneNote. The students will utilize the
technology skills to conduct research and complete core curriculum projects. Legal, social and ethical
issues related to the use of computers in our daily life will continue to be reinforced as well as internet
safety.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION: (GRADES 7-8) This course will allow the students the opportunity to
participate in a comprehensive program consisting of skill development, lead up games, team sports,
individual sports, and physical fitness activities.
ADD-ON BAND: Students will audition for this course. Add-On Band provides an opportunity to develop and refine
individual music skills in a performance ensemble setting. There is also opportunity for individual
instruction in instrumental technique and musicianship. Students will prepare and perform a variety of
instrumental music from varying historical periods, cultures, and styles. Students will also develop and
refine music and sight-reading skills, rehearsal techniques, an appreciation for historical context and
performance presentation. This course in intended for the student who is unable to schedule the daily
band course and attend, at minimum, weekly rehearsals during the regularly scheduled band course, in
addition to all after-school rehearsals and performances. Credit will be given on a full year or semester
commitment (.5 or .25 credit, respectively). This performance ensemble is an extension of the traditional
band course and is scheduled with performances at concerts, sporting events, parades, and other
ceremonies.
CHAMBER ENSEMBLE:
Advanced instrumentalists interested in Chamber Ensemble must enroll in Concert Band or Add-on Band
and may then audition for this select group. Chamber Ensemble will meet once per week outside of
school time and prepare high-quality, advanced repertoire for performance at the annual Christmas and
Spring concerts. Participation in this ensemble may present special performing, leadership, or academic
opportunities which would not be available in Concert or Marching band.
ADD-ON CHORUS: Students will audition for this course. Add-On Chorus provides instruction in vocal technique and
musicianship. Students will perform a variety of vocal music from varying historical periods, cultures,
and styles. Students will also develop and refine music and sight-reading skills, rehearsal techniques, an
appreciation for historical context and performance presentation. This course is intended for the student
who is unable to schedule the daily chorus course and attend, at minimum, weekly rehearsals during the
regularly scheduled chorus course, in addition to all after-school rehearsals, performances at concerts,
57
sporting events, parades, and other ceremonies. Credit will be given on a full year or semester
commitment (.5 or .25 credit, respectively).
CHAMBER CHOIR:
Advanced vocalists interested in Chamber Choir must enroll in Chorus or Add-on Chorus and may then
audition for this select group. Chamber Choir will meet once per week outside of school time and prepare
high-quality, advanced repertoire for performance at the annual Christmas and Spring concerts.
Participation in this ensemble may present special performing, leadership, or academic opportunities
which would not be available in the daily Chorus class.
7TH AND 8TH GRADE
The goal of the 7th and 8th Grade Program is to provide a challenging curriculum in a technologically
advanced learning program. It is designed to provide an educational opportunity in our high school for
academically advanced students, so they are able to take full advantage of our advanced placement and
college in high school programs.
ENGLISH
7th ENGLISH AND LANGUAGE ARTS: (GRADE 7)
Students will develop the literacy skills, academic habits and critical strategies needed to succeed in
rigorous academic courses. Students will read, with a focus on critical analysis, a variety of challenging
fiction and nonfiction text. Students will also practice composition strategies, build an understanding of
grammar, and develop academic vocabulary. The depth of content covered is designed to prepare students
for Advanced Placement courses in high school.
8th ENGLISH AND LANGUAGE ARTS: (GRADE 8)
Students will develop the literacy skills, academic habits and critical strategies needed to succeed in
rigorous academic courses. Students will read, with a focus on critical analysis, a variety of challenging
fiction and nonfiction text. Students will also practice composition strategies, build an understanding of
grammar, and develop academic vocabulary. The depth of content covered is designed to prepare students
for Advanced Placement courses in high school
MATHEMATICS
7th GRADE MATHEMATICS:
General math reinforces the algorithms of basic arithmetic through real life applications and the
introduction of integers and rational numbers. Concepts using equations, inequalities, functions and
properties of geometric figures are used to help establish the foundations for skills used in algebra and
geometry.
PRE-ALGEBRA:
This course is designed to teach students to be successful mathematics problem solvers. This course will
teach students to use variables and to solve single variable one-step equations. Emphasis will be placed
on evaluating integers and exponents, operations with rational numbers, percents, and inequalities
ALGEBRA I:
Algebra I emphasizes operations with integers, using exponents, and solving multiple step equations. The
course introduces concepts of graphing functions. Systems of two linear equations with two variables are
solved using elimination and substitution, as are application problems involving scientific notation, ratio,
percent, and unit conversions.
GEOMETRY:
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This course is designed to teach topics in geometry that include defining geometric terms, applying the
theorems of parallel lines to problem solving, proving triangles are congruent, applying properties to
parallelograms and other polygons, applying the Pythagorean Theorem to right triangles, using rules for
special right triangles to calculate sides, calculating angles of a circle, and calculating area and volume of
geometric figures, and the study of conic sections. Completion of Algebra I is required.
ALGEBRA II:
Algebra II is a continuation of Algebra I and emphasizes equations, inequalities, linear relations,
functions, systems of equations and inequalities. Quadratic functions, polynomial functions, radical
equations, rational expressions, exponential and logarithmic functions, and basic principles of probability
and statistical inference are introduced.
FUNDAMENTALS OF FAITH: (GRADES 7-8)
This course aims to provide junior high students with the necessary components to know and understand
the Catholic faith. Basic doctrines are studied, and basic practices are discussed so that students may
begin to form a more independent personal faith, guided by St. Thomas Aquinas’ motto, “Faith seeking
understanding.” Through hands-on experiences coupled with online learning and active participatory
discussions, this course will foster a more three-dimensional appropriation of the faith by the students.
SCIENCE
INTEGRATED SCIENCE: (GRADE 7)
This course is designed to provide students with an overview of physics, chemistry, and biology. It will
enforce mathematical skills in science and critical thinking skills through use of the scientific method.
Students will learn laboratory science techniques and use of scientific equipment. Instructional strategies
include: inquiry, science literacy, STEM, and critical thinking.
INTRODUCTION TO CHEMISTRY AND PHYSICS: (GRADE 8)
A Natural Approach to Chemistry and Physics Principles and Problems: This course follows a guided-
inquiry based instructional strategy that provides students with a direct experience with scientific
processes and how they are related to their world. A comprehensive overview of the main themes in
chemistry is presented that includes the atomic nature of matter, systems, temperature and energy. In
depth coverage of the core concepts of chemistry such as atomic structure, the Periodic Table,
compounds, molecules, solutions, bonding, and chemical reactions are taught. The physics component
includes an extensive study into the science of kinematics and dynamics, waves, light, energy, and
electricity. Algebra-based quantitative problem solving is an integral component. Instructional strategies
include: inquiry, science literacy, STEM, and critical thinking.
SOCIAL STUDIES
WORLD GEOGRAPHY AND CULTURES: (GRADE 7)
In this class we will examine the various countries that encompass our Earth. Students should expect to
learn about various cultures, economies, government and landscape. Key concepts learned throughout the
year will incorporate general understanding of map reading and how people across the world live off the
environment around them. Students whom enroll in this class should expect an entertaining learning
environment with collaborative assignments, independent exams and research papers.
U.S. HISTORY I : (GRADE 8)
United States History Pre-Columbian to 1860 is a year-long course investigating and studying early
inhabitants of North America up to the causes of the American Civil War. Students will examine
individuals, major historical figures, and important events which have impacted the formation of the
United States. Students will develop and improve upon skills historians use on a daily basis which include
analyzing primary and secondary sources, making comparisons, and focusing on change over time.
59
Students will be taking in large amounts of information, analyzing it, and developing all the information
into cohesive thoughts.
WORLD LANGUAGES: (GRADE 8)
Foreign language skills will be achieved through oral, written, listening and reading activities. Cultural
awareness and understanding will also play an important role. Students will apply critical thinking skills
while mastering the target language. All instructional activities guide students to proficiency in the
language. Languages offered include: Chinese and Spanish
T.E.A.M (GRADE 7): This two-period rotation includes PE (2 days)/Advisory (1 day)/ Technology
(1 day)/ Introduction to World Cultures (1 day), and Art/Music/Theater/Pre-AP College Board
(each 1 quarter)
T.E.A.M (GRADE 8): This two-period rotation includes PE (2 days) /Advisory (1 day) /Technology
(1 day)/Conference (1 day), and Art/Music/Theater/Pre-AP College Board (each 1 quarter)
ADVISORY: (GRADES 7-8) Students will develop their social, personal, and academic skills through
advising and class activities. Students will use this class as a space to practice these skills and identify
their strengths and weaknesses. This course is an aid to students in their development while in a
demanding and fast-paced environment. Examples of lessons include study skills, time management,
college/career exploration, and building peer relationships.
CONFERENCE PERIOD: (GRADE 8) The Conference Period is a course where students are afforded
time for academic and organizational skill development. Class time is provided for individualized
study plans, specific study techniques, time management, reading textbooks, taking notes, reviewing
notes, test preparation, concentration, use of online sources, and managing homework and self-
advocacy skills.
INTRODUCTION TO ART: (GRADES 7-8) Introduction to Art is an entry level studio art course
designed to expose students to the basic skills, concepts, and history of the visual arts through the
creation of original pieces of artwork, using a variety of mediums. This course is specifically designed
for the novice artist. Students will develop a sense of pride for what they are able to create, regardless
of their artistic ability and will gain a greater appreciation for the arts, in general.
INTRODUCTION TO DRAMA: (GRADES 7-8) In this course, students will be introduced to the
history of theater, the different classifications of theater, and famous playwrights. Students will also be
taught all of the different aspects of theater production. Students will have many opportunities to
perform parts of plays or full-length plays. Students will be responsible for reading, writing and
analyzing different plays.
INTRODUCTION TO MUSIC: (GRADES 7-8) This course introduces students to, and each
succeeding year builds upon, the understanding of musical concepts necessary to appreciate music from
many genres, composers, and historical periods of music. Through hands-on performing and listening
experiences, students gain knowledge of music theory and historical context through musical notation
and analysis of the aural components of music. Other concepts will include scales, chords, structure and
contextual analysis.
INTRODUCTION TO WORLD CULTURES: (GRADE 7) This class introduces young students to
cultures around the world. Cultural diversity and understanding is cultivated by exploring themes
including traditions, literature, language, cuisine, art, history, and more. The class will be held once per
week.
iPads IN EDUCATION: (GRADE 7) This course is designed to support students as they are first
introduced to Bishop Guilfoyle’s one-to-one iPad culture. Students learn to apply the creative and
productive use of iPad technology for educational use. They will utilize various applications to access
60
email, take notes, to create presentations, create photo collages, enhance photos, and create videos.
Legal, social and ethical issues related to the use of the computers will be reinforced as well as Internet
Safety.
MICROSOFT ESSENTIALS: (GRADE 8) This course is designed for students to utilize the Microsoft
Programs: Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, Publisher, excel, and OneNote. The students will utilize the
technology skills to conduct research and complete core curriculum projects. Legal, social and ethical
issues related to the use of computers in our daily life will continue to be reinforced as well as internet
safety.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION: (GRADES 7-8) This course will allow the students the opportunity to
participate in a comprehensive program consisting of skill development, lead up games, team sports,
individual sports, and physical fitness activities.
ADD-ON BAND: Students will audition for this course. Add-On Band provides an opportunity to develop and refine
individual music skills in a performance ensemble setting. There is also opportunity for individual
instruction in instrumental technique and musicianship. Students will prepare and perform a variety of
instrumental music from varying historical periods, cultures, and styles. Students will also develop and
refine music and sight-reading skills, rehearsal techniques, an appreciation for historical context and
performance presentation. This course in intended for the student who is unable to schedule the daily
band course and attend, at minimum, weekly rehearsals during the regularly scheduled band course, in
addition to all after-school rehearsals and performances. Credit will be given on a full year or semester
commitment (.5 or .25 credit, respectively). This performance ensemble is an extension of the traditional
band course and is scheduled with performances at concerts, sporting events, parades, and other
ceremonies.
CHAMBER ENSEMBLE:
Advanced instrumentalists interested in Chamber Ensemble must enroll in Concert Band or Add-on Band
and may then audition for this select group. Chamber Ensemble will meet once per week outside of
school time and prepare high-quality, advanced repertoire for performance at the annual Christmas and
Spring concerts. Participation in this ensemble may present special performing, leadership, or academic
opportunities which would not be available in Concert or Marching band.
CHAMBER CHOIR:
Advanced vocalists interested in Chamber Choir must enroll in Chorus or Add-on Chorus and may then
audition for this select group. Chamber Choir will meet once per week outside of school time and prepare
high-quality, advanced repertoire for performance at the annual Christmas and Spring concerts.
Participation in this ensemble may present special performing, leadership, or academic opportunities
which would not be available in the daily Chorus class.
ADD-ON CHORUS: Audition AND/OR Teacher Signature
This course provides instruction in vocal technique and musicianship. Students will perform a variety of
vocal music from varying historical periods, cultures, and styles. Students will also develop and refine
music and sight-reading skills, rehearsal techniques, an appreciation for historical context and
performance presentation. This course is intended for the student who is unable to schedule the daily
chorus course and attend, at minimum, weekly rehearsals during the regularly scheduled chorus course, in
addition to all after-school rehearsals, performances at concerts, sporting events, parades, and other
ceremonies. Credit will be given on a full year or semester commitment (.5 or .25 credit, respectively).