Hybrid Learning Consortium

COURSE CATALOG 2014–2015Version 2014–02–25

GENERAL INFORMATION

VISION

The vision of the Hybrid Learning Consortium is to create a globalized learning community, immersing students and faculty in the 21st century digital world through online courses offering freedom of content, collaboration and scheduling.

MISSION

The HLC brings together schools, teachers and students from around the world with the shared vision to provide best practices of diverse, in depth learning opportunities and continued achievement of rigor and excellence. HLC courses create opportunities for students to develop solutions to problems facing our local and global communities through course offerings wider than a single institution can support.

POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

Although Hybrid Learning Consortium outlines specific policies, on-campus institutions have the autonomy to implement policies for their own community. Please consult and adhere to your home institution’s expectations and directives.

FORMAT

All-online courses Learn at your convenience. Each course has a unique class site. Interaction through online discussion, video posting and web conferencing. All courses require access to high-speed internet. Check course descriptions for additional technology requirements.

Blended learning courses In HLC blended courses, all course content is fully online. However, students will be required to participate in practicums or field experiences that will be on campus or in their community. In this way, students will experience a fully online class supported with in-person activities, comprising up to twenty five percent of the time spent on the course.

PARTICIPATION

Plan to log on every day. Schedules arranged individually. Virtual office hours for live help twice per week.

NCAA APPROVED

Many HLC courses are approved by the NCAA Eligibility Center. Please refer to www.hybridlearningconsortium.org for an up-to-date list.

“The HLC brings together schools, teachers and students from around the world with the shared vision to

provide best practices of diverse, in depth learning opportunities and

continued achievement of rigor and excellence.”

2 • hybrid learning consortium

2014–2015 CALENDAR

Enrollment opens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .March 1, 2014

Fall/year-long enrollment closes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 22, 2014

Fall classes begin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .September 2, 2014

Fall/year-long drop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .September 26, 2014

Fall classes end . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .December 12, 2014

Winter Break . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . December 13, 2014–January 11, 2015

Spring enrollment closes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .December 31, 2014

Spring classes begin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . January 12, 2015

Spring drop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .February 6, 2015

Spring Break . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . March 16–27, 2015

Spring/year long classes end . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 8, 2015

REFUND/DROP POLICY

Refund Students may withdraw and receive a refund, less a $50 administrative fee, by the close of enrollment (two weeks before the course begins). After such time, no refund will be given.

Fall/year-long enrollment closes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 22, 2014

Spring enrollment closes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .December 31, 2014

Drop Students may drop a course by the drop date (four weeks after the course begins) without a penalty. After such time, withdraw policies of home institution apply.

Fall/year-long drop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .September 26, 2014

Spring drop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .February 6, 2015

HOW TO REGISTER

> Visit www.hybridlearningconsortium.org

> Choose “enroll in online courses” and log in or register as a new user

> Follow the enrollment prompts

> Don’t forget to download a teacher recommendation form. Your teacher must

return it directly to [email protected]

QUESTIONS?

Sarah Hofstra, Director of Hybrid Learning

[email protected]

International scheduling The dates listed align with American schools; however, course dates can be altered to accomodate international schools and students.

2014–2015 course catalog • 3Version 2014–02–25

UPPER SCHOOL COURSE CATALOG

Online course offerings for the 2014–2015 academic year. Each course is fully online, and does NOT meet in a classroom during the school day. Students are responsible to independently schedule time to log on to their course site on the computer and complete work. If live meeting times are required with the teacher for lectures and discussions, or with peers for collaboration, students and teachers will collectively decipher on mutually agreeable times.

ENGLISH

The English curriculum promotes logical thinking, analytical writing, and articulate speaking as it encourages students to read broadly. We believe that literature teaches perspective and empathy and serves as an entry point for exploration of the world and its variety of experiences. Throughout the English department experience, students engage modern and classic texts within and outside of Western culture in the form of novels, poetry, short fiction, and occasionally, graphic novels.

With weekly writing and frequent thesis-driven essays, students translate their ideas into intelligent, rhythmic, and crisp writing as they master grammar and punctuation, vocabulary, research tech-niques, and literary analysis. The English Department works in an interdisciplinary manner when appropriate, and we stress the interrelationships among the arts.

Social Justice and Coming of AgeGrades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

Literature focuses on social structures, the injustices often inherent in those struc-tures, and the ways in which individuals and groups combat injustice. Class discussions lay the foundation for written responses to texts that are both creative and analytical. Through these responses, students in-crease knowledge of grammar, vocabulary, and research paper techniques. Students read novels, short stories, plays, essays, and poetry.

Literature and Individual Identity Grades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

The individual quest for identity in an increasingly chaotic world is the subject

of literary study in this course. Employing literature from around the world, students will ask how and in what context identity is formed. Students will be encouraged to search for connections between the pri-mary texts and secondary materials such as poems, short stories, paintings, music, and film. In addition to expository and creative writing, students continue to develop advanced grammar and vocabulary skills. Students will develop confidence, style, and voice in their writing.

American LiteratureGrades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

Students in American Literature will read, discuss, ponder, and write about American fiction, poetry, essays, letters, speeches, and drama. We will spelunk through early American writing, such as The Scarlet Let-ter, the essays of Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau, and the fiction of Kate Chopin and Mark Twain. We will journey into twentieth century literature and meet such writers as F. Scott Fitzgerald, Hemingway, Faulkner, Flannery O’Connor, and Alice Walker. Along the way, poets and playwrights will rend our ears with their voices from the Harlem Renaissance and the deep-fried south. American Literature also devotes time to SAT/ACT and AP Exam preparation, academic writing and revision, creative exploration, and precision in writ-ten prose and oral pronouncements.

Senior SeminarGrades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

The semester-long senior seminars allow students the opportunity for focused study in specific subject areas. These small, discussion-oriented classes change by semester and concentrate on topics such as literary movements, genre study, and

thematic groupings. Each course will open with the study of one Shakespeare play. The courses promote in-depth examination of a particular field, and encourage rigor-ous—but creative—thinking, approaches, and discussions. Students will complete a culminating college-level research essay, including a proposal and an annotated bibliography.

English Literature APGrades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

This course prepares students for college English courses and for the Advanced Placement Examination in Literature and Composition. The class operates as closely as possible to a college-level course. The course fosters independent thinking through challenging literary analysis in class discussion and writing assignments. Texts are drawn from a variety of genres. Discussions encourage close reading of specific passages and mastery of overall structure and technique. We will also intro-duce literary theory.

Fundamentals of Effective SpeakingGrades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

Students will be introduced to and familiar-ized with the concepts of public speaking and listening. Students will work on skills in: organization, research, delivery, audience, analysis, ethics, and speech writing as well as public speaking techniques. Students will be trained to participate in practice presenta-tions and will then engage in performances.

Creative Writing Grades 9, 10, 11, 121 Semester

This course provides students the op-portunity to develop their knowledge of contemporary fiction. Students will read professional works and experiment with their own techniques, beginning with the writing of scenes and evolving into writing complete stories. The course focuses on the study of distinct aspects of writing, including plot, characterization, imagery, conflict, and point of view. Students will be encouraged to develop their own style and voice. Students will share written pieces


with classmates. Some guest speakers will be invited to the class throughout the year. Students will also be encouraged to attend readings in the community.

Advanced Creative WritingGrades 9, 10, 11, 121 Semester

Advanced Creative Writing builds upon the skills that students developed in Creative Writing. Advanced students write longer, more polished work. In addition to writing stories (or essays) and exercises, students will critique each other’s work in a workshop setting. Advanced students must also pay special attention to character, the starting point for creating literary writing. Addition-ally, literary writing displays inventive use of setting, style and language, plot, and theme. An advanced student will craft prose that transcends the mere delivery of meaning and offers literary invention. Students are required to submit one finished story for publication at the end of the semester.

Shakespeare On Stage Grades 9, 10, 11, 121 Semester

In order to deepen our understanding and enjoyment of Shakespeare, we shall enact the work of the Bard. Whether comedy or history, tragedy or romance, the play’s the thing in this course. In addition to an in-depth study of the plays, we will watch several cin-ematic interpretations, perform a soliloquy, write essays, and create presentations on various aspects of Shakespeare’s life.

MATHEMATIC S

The Mathematics department builds upon problem solving, critical thinking, compu-tational skills, and the knowledge of the number system gained from preschool to grade 8. The program is designed to encourage students to value mathematics and gain confidence in their mathemati-cal abilities. Instruction combines and balances the theory and practice of mathematics. Required courses in Algebra and Geometry provide the foundation for further mathematics study. Instruction combines and balances the theory and practice of mathematics.

Algebra IGrades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

This course includes topics on real numbers, the language of algebra, opera-tions, inverses, order and sets, linear and quadratic equations, factoring, simplifying algebraic expressions, graphing, problem solving, expressions, equations, polynomi-als, and properties of exponents.

GeometryGrades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

Geometry covers definitions, postulates, and theorems as they deal with angles, triangles, perpendicular and parallel lines, planes, congruence, similarity, circles, poly-gons, area, coordinate methods, specific right triangles, trigonometric functions, arcs and chords, constructions and loci, and transformations. Geometry also pro-vides an introduction to formal logic and proofs.

Intermediate Algebra Grades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

This course provides further preparation for Algebra II and reviews and strengthens algebra skills. Topics include operations with polynomials, linear and quadratic equations and graphs, functions, linear inequalities, absolute value, rational ex-pressions, determinants, matrices, radicals, rational exponents, and systems of linear equations.

Algebra II Grades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

This course begins with a review of linear functions and systems. It progresses to the development of quadratic, logarithmic, exponential, and rational and irrational alge-braic functions. The course emphasizes the study of a class of functions by definition, graphs, properties, and applications.

Fundamentals Of Precalculus Grades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

This course begins with a review of Al-gebra II concepts which include solving equations graphically, numerically, and algebraically. Other areas of study include modeling with functions, equation solving, graphical transformations, and complex numbers. Ten basic functions will be stud-ied which include quadratic, rational, poly-nomial, exponential, logarithmic, inverse, and trigonometric functions.

The idea of the limit will be introduced with limit notation to describe end behavior and asymptotes. Also, the average rate of change of a function will show the rate of change of a linear function as it relates to the slope.

Precalculus Grades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

This course consists of the following topics: analytic geometry and graphing techniques, exponential and logarithmic functions, polynomial functions, rational functions, trigonometry, circular functions, algebra of functions, and inverse functions.

Fundamentals Of CalculusGrades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

This course is a college preparatory course covering the fundamental con-cepts of differential and integral calculus. This course is less rigorous than Calculus AB and Calculus BC Advanced Place-ment courses. A review of functions and trigonometry will be incorporated in the beginning of this course. This course will thoroughly explore limits and their


properties, differentiation and applica-tions, and integration and applications, as well as logarithmic, exponential and other transcendental functions. Real-world con-cepts and business and financial problem solving will be explored. The TI-83, TI-84 or TI-84 PLUS calculator will be utilized in this course.

Probability And StatisticsGrades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

This course is designed to cover the fol-lowing: elementary counting techniques, discrete and continuous probability dis-tributions, and descriptive and inferential statistics with applications.

Probability and Statistics APGrades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

This course meets the requirements set forth by the College Entrance Examination Board for the Statistics Advanced Place-ment Exam. The topics covered in this course include exploratory data analysis, experimental design, elementary counting techniques, discrete and continuous prob-ability distributions, sampling distributions, and inferential statistics using multiple methods. Applications of the material are stressed throughout the course.

Calculus I – AB APGrades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

This course is designed to meet the require-ments set forth by the College Entrance Examination Board for the Calculus AB Advanced Placement Exam. Topics in this course include analytic geometry, limit theorems, differentiation and integration formulas, and transcendental functions. Ap-plications and problem solving are stressed.

Calculus II – BC APGrades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

This course will meet the requirements described by the College Board for the Calculus BC Advanced Placement Exam. The topics include sequences and series, parametric, polar and vector functions, advanced integration techniques, and

first order differential equations. A review of Calculus AB topics is included as part of the BC exam preparation. The Maple computer algebra system is used.

Advanced Math TopicsGrades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

This course continues the study of vector analysis and goes on to concepts involving differential equations and linear algebra.

Mathematical FinanceGrades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

This course identifies the mathematical structure of various financial topics taken from both personal and general finance. Basic probability theory and the theory of exponential and linear functions will be reviewed and used to describe the time value of money, insurance, taxes, investments, credit and loan repayment, amortization and annuities, and income and expense budgeting.

COMPUTER SCIENCE

Web DevelopmentGrades 9, 10, 11, 121 Semester

In this course, students will study the design and creation of websites. HTML and XML markup languages will be studied, but the emphasis will be on newer web solutions such as CSS, Javascript, and server-side programming languages. Each student will create a personal website. A content management system will be installed and customized to acquaint students with working cooperatively on a large project.

Introduction To Java1 Semester

This course is a one semester introduc-tion to computer programming using the Java language. No prior programming experience is assumed. Basic concepts of structured programming will be covered, with an emphasis on object-oriented pro-gramming techniques.

Computer Science APGrades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

This course prepares students for the Com-puter Science Advanced Placement Exam. Topics include basic hardware and software concepts, programming syntax using Java, conditional and iterative statements, algorithms, functions, data structures, and sorting and searching algorithms. Some prior programming experience is required. Experience in a language other than Java may suffice. All aspects of the Java language will be covered in this course.

Web Database Programming Grades 9, 10, 11, 121 Semester

In this course the students will construct their own dynamic website using server side programming languages and the MySQL database. The programming languages studied include Python and Perl, with the primary emphasis on PHP. Dynamic web-site features such as guestbooks, custom layouts, and shopping carts will be studied. PHP and MySQL are used in millions of web servers and drive many popular websites.


APPLIED SCIENCE

The Applied Science program promotes an understanding of scientific concepts and methods. Emphasis is placed on the integration of laboratory work in the practical application of scientific knowledge and theory.

Anatomy And PhysiologyGrades 9, 10, 11, 121 Semester

Anatomy and Physiology is a one semester life science elective. The course involves both classroom instruction on the prin-ciples of physiology as well as the study of anatomy through comparative dissection at the partner school. Topics to be studied include cell and tissue structure and func-tion, basic medical terminology, and human body systems.

Introduction to AstronomyGrades 9, 10, 11, 121 Semester

This course journeys from the Earth to the edge of the universe. We review the his-tory of astronomy, define astronomy, and learn how astronomy is performed. We then start our journey outward, discuss-ing Earth and its nearest companion, the moon, and then the sun and the rest of the solar system. Stars will be the next topic—how they are formed, their evolution, and their death. Next will be the discussion of groups of stars, nebula, interstellar matter, and galaxies (starting with our own—the Milky Way). The semester ends with a discussion of special topics, such as black holes and quasars.

Planetary Astronomy and the Formation of LifeGrades 9, 10, 11, 121 Semester

This course begins with an in-depth study of our solar system, including each of the planets, minor objects, and the sun. The course examines the differences between the terrestrial planets and the Jovian (outer) planets, and the causes of their differences. The course concludes with a study of other solar systems, how they are observed, and the likelihood of life elsewhere in the universe.

Extreme Astronomy and CosmologyGrades 9, 10, 11, 121 Semester

In this course, students explore the as-tronomy of extreme objects: black holes, quasars, neutron stars, and a variety of other exotic objects. Students also analyze in-depth the subject of cosmology, which is the study of the birth and evolution of the universe. Did the universe begin with a Big Bang? What will be the final fate of the universe?

BiologyGrades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

This full-year program is an introduc-tory laboratory course in the life sciences. Students study the chemistry of life, cell biology, microbiology, genetics, photosyn-thesis, respiration, evolution, ecology, and the diversity of life. The course includes frequent laboratory and hands-on activi-ties at the partner school.

Biology APGrades 11 or 122 Semesters

The Advanced Placement Biology course is designed to be the equivalent of a college introductory laboratory course taken by Biology majors during their first year of college. Students enrolled in AP Biology study topics in each area of emphasis specified by the College Board: 1) Molecules and Cells; 2) Heredity and Evolution; and 3) Organisms and Popula-tions. Additionally, the twelve required AP Biology laboratory exercises are complet-ed throughout the course at the partner school. The course prepares students to take the AP Biology Exam in May.

ChemistryGrades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

The focus is on the world of the atom as an entrance into the physical sciences and leads the student into the macroscopic world of data collecting and analysis by exploring the composition and interaction of matter. Techniques of graphing and al-gebra are used to perform experiments at the partner school. Much of the class time

is spent in small groups for problem solving activities.

Chemistry APGrades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

This course satisfies the recommendations of the College Board for an Advanced Placement course in Chemistry. The stu-dent will explore chemistry topics in depth and focus on more sophisticated and rig-orous lab activities at the partner school. The adoption of microscale practices for the AP lab creates a safer and more environmentally-friendly approach.

Environmental ScienceGrades 9, 10, 11, 121 Semester

Environmental Science is a semester long science elective course. Students will study the ecological principles of envi-ronmental science, which includes biodi-versity, populations, species interactions, community ecology, and environmental ethics. Special regard is given to current and/or local environmental topics such as energy, pollution, water, climate, urbaniza-tion, and agriculture.

Environmental Science APGrades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

This course is meant to be the equivalent of a laboratory-based introductory col-lege level environmental science course. Topics of study include earth systems and resources, ecosystems and energy flow, population biology, land and water use, energy resources and consumption, pollution, and global change. Laboratory work and field studies are an integral component of this course. This course prepares students to take the AP exam in May.

GeologyGrades 9, 10, 11, 121 Semester

This is a one semester course covering the fundamentals of geology. We will study rocks, volcanoes, earthquakes, and the ef-fect of climate on the earth.


PhysicsGrades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

This course is an introduction to the major principles of physics including kinematics, dy-namics, work and energy, heat, waves, light, sound, electricity, magnetism, and atomic physics, and includes a brief introduction to nuclear physics. Emphasis is placed on problem-solving. Weekly labs are performed and analyzed at the partner school. Physics simulations, interfaces, and data-base pro-grams are used to supplement lab work. The relation between physics and mathematics is used to strengthen skills in both areas.

Physics APGrades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

This course satisfies the recommendations of the College Board for the Advanced Placement Physics C Exam. The course involves a calculus-based approach to mechanics (test 1) and electricity/magnetism (test 2). Topics covered include kinematics, vectors, dynamics, rotation, momentum, and energy in mechanics. In electricity/magnetism, we cover electric potential, cur-rent, circuits, capacitance, inductance, and Maxwell’s equations. We use a computer-based approach to our labs, employing and emphasizing data analysis.

Physical ScienceGrades 9, 10, 11, 122 SemestersLab science

Physical Science is a laboratory science course designed to serve as a solid founda-tion for the study of Physics and Chemistry. The course focuses on exploring the relationship between matter and energy through an inquiry-based approach. Topics to be investigated include force and mo-tion, work, conservation and transformation of energy, chemical reactions, atomic and molecular structure, heat, waves, sound, light, electricity, and magnetism among oth-ers. Students will apply math and scientific reasoning skills in the lab while working to solve problems and gain a deep conceptual understanding of physical science concepts. Students will gain valuable skills and knowl-edge while participating in this challenging, fun, and rewarding class.

SOCIAL SCIENCES

All courses in the Social Sciences depart-ment stress context—the relationship of the topic at hand to the larger sweep of events in historical time—while focusing on periods or topics discreet enough to allow in-depth study. Courses in the Social Sciences department emphasize critical reading, analytical thinking, well-documented research, and good writing.

Ancient World HistoryGrades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

The freshman Ancient World History course surveys the shift from prehistory to the agricultural revolution, the rise of river valley civilizations and early city states, the development of empires during the clas-sical period, and the growth and impact of codified religions. The relationship between religion and empire leads into a study of developments during the post-classical age ending with the medieval period. Along with discussion of these developments, the course emphasizes the development of historical skills and methodology. Students learn to analyze primary documents, dissect sophisticated historical text, explore the role of physical geography in human history, write schol-arly essays, and connect the past to the present through study of current events.

Cultural Anthropology Grades 9, 10, 11, 121 Semester

Cultural Anthropology will develop stu-dents’ abilities to examine methods and perspectives of cultural anthropology. Through a variety of primary and second-ary source readings, case studies and personal interactions with other cultures, students will enhance their awareness of the cultures in their community through interactions made possible due to the nature of the online learning platform such as video chat, interviews, and online discus-sion posts. Students will also develop an understanding of what makes a culture op-erate, from a functional and dysfunctional viewpoint and will have an opportunity to apply their learning to current global issues.

Human Geography APGrades 9, 10, 11, 121 Semester

The AP Human Geography course intro-duces students to the systematic study of patterns and processes that have shaped human understanding, use, and alteration of Earth’s surface. Students examine human social organization and its environmental consequences. They also learn about the methods and tools geographers use in their science and practice. We will consider issues such as migration, economic devel-opment, agriculture, land use, and urban-ization as examples of cultural processes that shape and are shaped by geographic forces. A substantial portion of our time and effort will be spent on doing human geography through methods-based field work. The course will prepare students to take the Human Geography AP exam in the spring.

Introduction To Business Grades 9, 10, 11, 121 Semester

Introduction to Business will provide stu-dents a foundation of business principles including business operations, business communication, aspects of entrepreneur-ialism, consumer choices and finance. Stu-dents will develop skills and a framework that can support their future business stud-ies and applications for their own pursuits. Opportunities for authentic application to students’ personal lives will also create an inherent awareness that business concepts are crucial, supporting any future paths for study or self-motivated endeavors.

World PhilosophyGrades 9, 10, 11, 121 Semester

This course will survey the major philo-sophical traditions throughout the world. It will have a strong historical orientation. Students will be exposed to the origins of Western philosophy in Greece and Rome. They will subsequently explore how Jewish and Islamic philosophers preserved and adapted classical European philosophy into their own religious and intellectual traditions. After a brief examination of me-dieval philosophy, students will explore


modern European perspectives from the Enlightenment to the mid-twentieth century. The course will conclude with an investigation of Eastern philosophies like Confucianism, Taoism, Hinduism, and Zen Buddhism.

Modern World History APGrades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

The Modern World History course opens with global developments just before the age of exploration and discovery by examining regional trade routes shifting into a global trade system. Special atten-tion is paid to the impact of the Columbian Exchange on global economic, social, and demographic developments. The course examines political, intellectual, social and economic developments in Asia, Europe, Africa and Latin America over the course of the modern era. The course encourages stu-dents to consider viewing history through multiples lenses, to analyze primary sources sophisticatedly, to think critically, to analyze perspective, and to write lucidly about the past and its impact on the present.

Post-Colonial African History Through Fiction and FilmGrades 9, 10, 11, 121 Semester

This course will examine cultural, political and economic developments in Sub-Saha-ran Africa in the twentieth and twenty-first centuries. Novels and movies will play a prominent role in our examination of African history after the end of European Colonization. We will pay particular atten-tion to questions regarding the extent to which African writing and film reflects or rejects colonial influence. Finally, we will consider the role African writers and film makers may play in shaping the continent’s present and future.

Psychology APGrades 9, 10, 11, 121 Semester

The purpose of the AP course in Psychol-ogy is to introduce the systematic and scientific study of the behavior and mental processes of human beings and other animals. Included is a consideration of the

psychological facts, principles, and phe-nomena associated with each of the major subfields within psychology. Students also learn about the ethics and methods psychologists use in their science and practice.

Sport In American CultureGrades 9, 10, 11, 121 Semester

This course is an introduction to and survey of the academic study of sports in the United States. Its interdisciplinary ap-proach will use materials and texts drawn from history, sociology, journalism, fiction, and film. This class will use sport as a starting point to explore topics like ethnic-ity, gender, nationality, and race. Students will be required to find current materials regarding local, national, and international events throughout the semester.

United States HistoryGrades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

This survey examines major topics in Ameri-can history from the European settlement of the North American continent to the pres-ent. Significant themes include the relation-ship between slavery and freedom; changes in the meaning of equality and natural rights over time; the role of the United States in world economy and politics; and immigra-tion and the growth of multicultural society. Although comprehensive in approach, the class will pay special attention to issues of social history through focus upon race, eth-nicity, gender, and class status. In doing so, it will subsequently explore how definitions of “America” and “Americans” have been chal-lenged, reworked, and broadened over the course of time.

United States History APGrades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

This course resembles a two-semester college-level introduction to American history. Classes will be devoted to dis-cussion and group analysis of problems within U.S. history. Frequently assigned document-based questions will further an ability to assess primary sources and present relevant arguments in an essay

format. Class debates centered upon controversial questions will compare and contrast interpretive positions and broaden understanding of historiogra-phy. Many unifying themes link the range of material covered in this class. Such topics include a concentration upon American diversity; differing interpreta-tions of American national identity; the historical significance of cultural texts (popular literature, music, theater, film, etc.); economic transformations; the ever-broadening definition of American citizenship; the efforts of reform move-ments; and the impacts of globalization.

United States Government And Politics APGrades 9, 10, 11, 121 Semester

This class is an intensive one-semester study of the six key topics mandated by the Col-lege Board: constitutional underpinnings of the United States government; political beliefs and behaviors; political parties, in-terest groups, and mass media; institutions of national government; public policy; and civil rights and liberties. Although students will acquire factual knowledge, they will also be required to critically engage the merits and shortcomings of the American political system, the multi-faceted and often contested nature of citizenship, and their roles and responsibilities within the political process. Through a seminar for-mat and an emphasis upon current events, the class will accentuate the relationship between historical topics and the contem-porary period while situating individual students within the broader parameters of U.S. government and politics.

Economics APGrades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

This course is composed of two one-semester courses designed to prepare the student for successful completion of the Advanced Placement Exam in both Macroeconomics and Microeconomics. The semester of Macroeconomics covers basic concepts, measurement of national economic performance, national income and price levels, financial sector character-istics, inflation, unemployment, economic


growth, productivity, and international trade. The semester of Microeconomics covers product markets, resource markets, market failure, and the role of govern-ment. The course will make extensive use of mathematical reasoning without much formal algebra manipulation.

European History APGrades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

Taught as a college freshman survey in modern European history, the course closely follows AP guidelines in content and scope. Students learn about major trends from 1450 to the present and exam-ine issues in intellectual, social-economic, and political European history. There is continued work on essay writing, as well as practice on multiple choice and document-based questions for the AP exam. During the course, a student should become much more aware of the role of point of view in approaching the past and the necessity to support his or her point of view with persuasive evidence. Significant efforts are made to relate current problems and de-velopments in Europe to their antecedents as we come across them in the course of study.

Modern Art HistoryGrades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

This course will dive deeply into the fine art of a given time period, providing students with an understanding of architecture, painting and sculpture and the cultural context from which it emerges. Students will learn to look critically at these works of art, with intelligence and sensitivity, and to articulate what they see or experience. Stressing fine art’s relationship with society, literature, music, and philosophy opens new doors of understanding, and encour-ages individual investigation, all the while giving the students a wonderfully thick background in the humanities. The course asks students to think independently and synthesize materials from disparate sources; in addition, we will learn how to “look” at cultural objects, how to “see” con-nections, and how to generate a “feel” for the humanities.

WORLD LANGUAGES

In World Language courses, students pro-gressively develop the four key language skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing. In addition to these communica-tion skills, World Language curriculum provides students with an understanding and appreciation of a culture other than their own. In class, World Language stu-dents apply their language skills through presentations, collaborative projects, and student-centered discussion boards.

Chinese IGrades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

This course is designed to help beginners develop communicative competence in the four basic skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing, with special emphasis on Chinese conversation. In the first weeks of Chinese I, the phonetic system called pinyin is mastered. Chinese characters are then introduced, with the goal of mastering 100 characters by the end of the first year. In addition to textbook work, students use CDs, DVDs, Chinese language websites, and other media to increase proficiency in spoken and written Chinese.

Chinese IIGrades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

In this course, students continue to develop communicative competence in the four basic skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing, with special emphasis on Chinese conversation. By the end of the year, students will have mastered around 250 frequently used characters. Chinese II students will increasingly be expected to complete projects, make presentations, and role-play in the target language. In addition to textbook work, students use CDs, DVDs, Chinese language websites, and other media to increase proficiency in spoken and written Chinese.

Chinese IIIGrades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

To complement the development of commu-nicative competence in the four basic skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing,

Chinese III students will turn increasingly to literature to improve language fluency and aid in the acquisition of new vocabulary. Em-phasis will also be placed on gaining knowl-edge about Chinese culture, with linguistic and cultural differences between Mainland China and Taiwan consistently pointed out. Chinese III students are expected to use Chinese to interact in class. By the end of the year, students will be able to recognize more than 500 frequently used characters.

Chinese IVGrades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

This course lays the foundations for the AP Chinese Language and Culture course and/or college-level Chinese courses. Chinese IV students use literature and electronic media to improve language fluency and aid in the acquisition of new vocabulary. Emphasis will continue to be placed on gaining knowledge about Chinese culture, with linguistic and cultural differences between Mainland China and Taiwan consistently pointed out. Chinese IV students are expected to use Chinese to interact in class. By the end of the year, students will be able to recognize more than 750 frequently used characters.

French I Grades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

This first-year course emphasizes the acquisition of vocabulary, spelling, pronun-ciation, and grammar. It lays the foundation for reading, writing, and speaking French. From the beginning, students are exposed to the spoken language and are involved in a variety of activities designed to reinforce grammatical concepts and to develop both oral and listening proficiency.

French II Grades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

The goal of this course is to further develop students’ proficiency in French. All four language skills (speaking, reading, writing, and listening) are strengthened. Collab-orative and creative projects enhancing the vocabulary covered in each unit are an essential part of this class.


French IIIGrades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

In this intermediate level course, students continue to broaden their knowledge of the French language and civilization and to develop their writing and speaking abili-ties. The introduction of literary texts in the second semester prepares the students for work in the advanced levels.

French IVGrades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

In this advanced course, students are introduced to literature while continuing to develop proficiency in all areas. Rep-resentative works from important literary periods are read and analyzed. Students are expected to write papers, to make oral reports in French, and to actively engage in discussions.

Advanced French Topics Grades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

This course is geared toward the student who has a strong foundation in French grammar and would like to continue de-veloping his/her skills in spoken French. Students will expand their vocabulary and language skills through presentations, discussions, role-play, music, and film. The class will emphasize verbal, as opposed to written skills, with the potential for cross-curricular activities.

French Language APGrades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

This course prepares students for the Advanced Placement Exam in French Language. Students will continue expanding their knowledge of French culture and language by reading literary works and magazine/newspaper articles, and by exploring film and other pertinent materials, such as French TV channels, blogs, etc. Students are expected to communicate exclusively in French. They must also write essays in French to dem-onstrate an ability to discuss and analyze a variety of topics.

Latin I Grades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

Latin I will introduce students to the Latin language and the culture of the ancient Roman world. Throughout the course, students build a foundational vocabulary, along with a working knowledge of the ba-sic language structure. Students develop foundational reading and writing skills by reading short stories and novels and by engaging in creative writing. Videos, music, class discussions, presentations, and projects cultivate students’ skills. Studies of Ancient Rome and Greece foster cultural appreciation and provide a platform for making intercultural connections. Latin also provides a foundational understanding of the roots of most English words, as well as an ability to utilize scientific vocabulary more knowledgeably.

Spanish I Grades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

Spanish I introduces students to the language and culture of the Spanish-speaking world. Students build a founda-tional vocabulary, along with a working knowledge of basic language structure. Throughout the course, students learn essential vocabulary and gain a working knowledge of basic language structures. Students develop foundational reading and writing skills by reading short stories and novels and by engaging in creative writing. Videos, music, class discussions, presentations, and collaborative projects cultivate students’ listening and speaking skills. Country studies of Latin America and Spain foster cultural appreciation and provide a platform for making intercultural connections.

Spanish II Grades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

During this second level course, students greatly expand their knowledge of Span-ish vocabulary and language structures. Students read short stories and novels at ever-increasing levels of sophistication. Projects, such as oral presentations, song writing, and video creation, allow students

to synthesize their writing and communica-tion skills. Cultural videos, pop music, class discussions, and collaborative projects help students to continue advancing their listening and speaking skills. Spanish II continues to foster students’ cultural knowledge of the Spanish-speaking world and encourages students to make their own intercultural connections.

Spanish IIIGrades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

Readings, video clips, and activities in Spanish about history, current events, and popular culture are integral to the curriculum. These brief glimpses into Spanish-speaking cultures will cover as many countries as time permits. We will also review and expand upon the funda-mental grammatical concepts and begin studies of more sophisticated linguistic structures. To develop verbal skills, stu-dents are expected to converse in Span-ish during the entire class period. The text is supported by an extensive website that provides flashcards, tutorials, written and listening practice, and assessment with immediate feedback. The site offers access to all video and listening activities found in the activity workbook. Upon completion of this course, students will have refined their communication skills, developed a better understanding of the diverse Spanish-speaking cultures, and established a higher degree of confidence in their speaking abilities.

Spanish IVGrades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

In this advanced elective, students contin-ue to develop their verbal and writing skills, broaden their vocabulary, and deepen their understanding of Spanish-speaking cul-tures and civilizations. Literary selections, articles, and movie shorts engage students in the study of language and culture. Stu-dents are expected to actively engage in discussions, write often and make presen-tations entirely in the target language. The text is supported by an extensive website that provides supplementary written and listening practice. The site offers access to


movie shorts by award-winning directors, brief documentaries, and readings of liter-ary works. Along with activities that refine the four communication skills, we focus on developing essential abilities for continu-ing language studies such as note taking and essay writing.

Spanish Language APGrades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

This advanced course works under the as-sumption that students have a firm grasp of essential linguistic concepts and are prepared to delve into the nitty-gritty of grammar. Much of the grammar studies will be independent class work as we collectively build skills for more sophisti-cated communication and literary analysis. Magazine and newspaper articles, a variety of literary pieces, internet pages, short film clips, and other pertinent materials will provide the essential resources for this class. Students will continue to communi-cate exclusively in Spanish as they discuss literary works and current events. They will have the opportunity to develop their writ-ing skills in a variety of registers, with the expectation that they will incorporate more sophisticated grammar and vocabulary into their communications. The class will prepare students to enroll in intermediate level college courses.

Advanced Spanish Topics I/IIGrades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

This course is geared toward the student who has a strong foundation in Spanish grammar and would like to develop a deep-er understanding and appreciation for the cultural aspects of the Spanish-speaking world, while improving his/her verbal skills. Students are expected to communicate entirely in Spanish during class. They will review essential grammar and expand their vocabulary and language skills through making presentations, taking an active role in discussions, listening to music, watching films, and reading literature. The class’ emphasis will be on verbal skills with the potential for cross-cultural activities.

FINE , PERFORMING & COMMUNICATION ARTS

The arts define and deepen the hu-man experience by connecting time, experience, intellect, and emotion to our daily lives. Two-dimensional art, three-dimensional art, graphic design, music appreciation and music theory are all outlets to explore and enhance experience. Students are encouraged to value their own contributions, as well as those of previous cultures. The left-brain thinking that powered the Information Age is necessary but no longer suf-ficient. Right-brain abilities, such as inventiveness, empathy, meaning, and comprehending “the big picture,” are the qualities that students will need to utilize when working in the Conceptual Age. Each discipline uses challenging course work enhanced with co-curricular experi-ences. Opportunities to improve critical thinking, research, reading, writing, and performance techniques pair with competitive and cooperative activities to create well-rounded student debaters, broadcasters, and journalists.

Photography I Grades 9, 10, 11, 121 Semester

This course covers the basic principles of taking and developing photographs. Com-position and the elements and principles of art and design will be emphasized.

note: Students must provide their own working 35mm SLR manual camera with a 50 mm lens, and tripod.

Photography II Grades 9, 10, 11, 121 Semester

The course will cover such topics as por-traiture, night photography, advertising photography, and the photography of ab-stract concepts, such as confusion or hope. Students may use manipulatives, such as filters, tripods, and flash drives. Students will also need access to PhotoShop CS3 or later.

Advanced PhotographyGrades 9, 10, 11, 121 Semester

The purpose of this course is to further develop the student’s photography skills, as well as encourage the use of PhotoShop and digital photography in an independent study course structure.

The work for the first semester will be geared towards developing a portfolio for college admissions and scholarships. The work for the second semester will include preparing for an art exhibit. The student may pursue any artistic form or style.

Digital Filmmaking IGrades 9, 10, 11, 121 Semester

This course is for the budding filmmaker. While not a screenwriting class, this course is about the creative process; it is about what students want to express as filmmak-ers and why; it is about developing ideas, exploration of film structure, and form. Students will work on various projects, pro-ducing film “shorts.” Fiction, documentary, and experimental forms will all be explored.

Digital Filmmaking IIGrades 9, 10, 11, 121 Semester

This course is designed to be a continua-tion of Digital Filmmaking I. Students will deepen their insight and awareness of their emotions, creativity and self through the making of film. Self-expression is as vital to our existence as breathing. It’s how we interact with other beings and with the world. Students will further their explora-tion of filmmaking in its narrative, docu-mentary and experimental forms. They will be exposed to a variety of techniques and will be persuaded to try different editing and storytelling styles. Experimental ap-proaches in both conceptual and aesthetic relationships will also be explored.

Graphic Design Grades 9, 10, 11, 121 Semester

Emphasizing the creative process from thumbnail to comprehensive, the course will introduce the student to the language,


tools, and techniques of the professional graphic designer. This course will expose students to a series of assignments de-signed to show step-by-step problem solving from observation and research, to the incorporation of these findings into the design of communication vehicles.

Music Through The AgesGrades 9, 10, 11, 121 Semester

This course explores music from Gregorian Chant to Rock ’n Roll to Rap and related historical and political events. For students who would like to answer the question: “What do Gregorian Chant and Rap have in common?”

Music TheoryGrades 9, 10, 11, 121 Semester

Pitch. Rhythm. Scales. Intervals. Chords. Harmony. These are fundamental concepts that must be mastered by students who are serious about music. These are the topics that are addressed in Music Theory. This course is open to any student interested in learning the principles of writing and analyzing music. Students will learn inter-vals, major and minor scale construction, harmony, transposition, voicing, arranging, ear training, and other aspects of music.

Music Theory APGrades 9, 10, 11, 121 Semester

This full-year course is comparable to the first year of college music theory where the student learns to deal with music in its own terms, developing a vocabulary of sound, as well as words. The College Board asserts that “the student’s ability to read and write musical notation is fundamental to such a course. It is also strongly recommended that the student will have acquired at least basic performance skills in voice or on an instrument.”

This class integrates aspects of melody, har-mony, texture, rhythm, form, musical analysis, elementary composition and, to some extent, history and style. Musicianship skills such as dictation and other listening skills, sight-sing-ing, and keyboard harmony are considered an important part of this theory class.

Music In Film & MediaGrades 9, 10, 11, 121 Semester

This class is for any student interested in the use of music in motion pictures and other media, from the silent film era to the present day. Students will recognize the elements and style of music and will ana-lyze its role through perceptive listening, viewing, and discussion.

Scriptwriting Grades 9, 10, 11, 121 Semester

This course is designed to train and devel-op the student playwright. Writing scripts may take many forms: scenes, one-act and full-length plays, commercials, short films, tele-plays, and feature film screenplays. The goal is to discover the student’s “voice,” and in doing so, find a genre to showcase his or her works. This course teaches students the fundamental elements of storytelling, as well as to understand basic elements of genres, to sustain an interesting story, to create strong characters, to develop theme and symbols, and to structure it all into a finished script.

Theatre Arts: Production And DesignGrades 9, 10, 11, 121 Semester

This course is for the student who enjoys all areas of theatre and would love to learn how they work together. All technical as-pects will be covered. Students will learn about script analysis, set design lights, sound, costume and props, and other production elements necessary to produce a play or musical. Especially useful for the director and stage manager, this class will culminate in a full design of a play and the direction of a scene from the chosen and approved production.

Introduction To Broadcasting/ Video ProductionGrades 9, 10, 11, 121 Semester

In this course we will explore the principles, mechanics, techniques and aesthetics of video production for broadcast. Students will learn how to operate a digital video camera, edit video using Adobe Premiere

and explore multiple ways of telling a story. Students will develop their critical thinking skills, learn lighting techniques and improve interviewing skills. Once the student has developed the appropriate skills needed to produce quality videos, their stories will be showcased on the class video news website.

Broadcast JournalismGrades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

The purpose of this course is to write, film, edit, and produce a news-format program to be viewed as streaming video on the class website. Students create a news pro-gram on a regular basis. A strong interest in broadcast journalism and/or web design is recommended.

Online JournalismGrades 9, 10, 11, 121 or 2 Semesters

This course focuses on the principles and practice of high school journalism. Students will produce or supervise all stages of the design, writing, and posting of an online newspaper. In the process, students develop skills in research, writing, photography, art and design, and use of the Adobe Creative Suite.

Culture And Communication (ELL I)Grades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

This course is a study of the relationship between media communications and social actions and attitudes. Students examine the relationship between cultural values and mass media and their influence on each other. Additionally, students will conduct an analysis of the various media employed in communicating to the masses through an examination of the practices to learn about the possibilities and limitations of each.

Argumentation, Critical Thinking And Speech (ELL II)Grades 9, 10, 11, 121 or 2 Semesters

This course is aimed to further develop effective oral communication with an emphasis on the development of critical


thinking and argumentation. In indepen-dent schools where class participation is expected and assessed, second year ELL students will benefit from additional instruction in this area.

Introduction To Sports Broadcasting Grades 9, 10, 11, 122 Semesters

This course is designed to provide students with a real world experience while producing and broadcasting a live sporting event. Students will gain the skills necessary to operate multiple cameras to facilitate a remote television production. Students will coordinate coverage of live sports to be broadcasted on the internet via Livestream. Students will produce, an-nounce, and provide technical production support for live sporting events.

note: This is a “blended” course. All course reading, viewing and lecture content will be online with no scheduled classroom time. However, a large portion of the class requirement is the exciting hands on practicum of weekly broadcasts of school sporting events after the school day hours. Students will be committed to and responsible to put into action the skills that they are learning: camera and technical support, announcing and commentating, and production of real time sports events with eager viewer audiences on evenings and weekends.

ETHIC S

To inspire growth in all aspects of the individual, character development must be conscious and intentional. The ethics courses offered enable students to discuss issues that come up each day in their lives in a constructive and thoughtful setting. These issues include not only personal issues of morality, but also larger, global concerns related to justice and diversity. These courses in ethics are designed to expand students’ awareness of the world in which they live.

Introduction To Ethics And LeadershipGrades 9, 10, 11, 121 Semester

This course will examine the personal, social, and political experiences related to the diversity of American and global culture, such as gender, race, social class, age, sexual orientation, ability, and religion. The moral and political issues that exist in a multicultural society are explored in short reading and writing assignments. Emphasis is placed on in-class discussion. Students will also examine integrity in the context of personal and interpersonal conflict. Students explore developmentally appropriate issues such as stress and an-ger management, peer influences, lying, teasing, body image, sexual identity, and substance abuse.

Applied Ethics Grades 9, 10, 11, 121 Semester

This course is designed to be a forum for students to investigate and discuss their own perspectives on a variety of essential topics. Students will read passages from religious, philosophical, and literary texts, and use these excerpts as a basis for their discussions. The class will also use film for the same purpose. The objective of the course is not to instruct students on de-sired behaviors or “correct” moral choices, but rather to allow individuals to share their own thoughts and beliefs and to consider issues of character and morality. Spirituality, personal relationships, ethical dilemmas, and justice are representative topics.



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