Course Outlines
- Mathematics
- Language Arts
- Science
- Social Studies
- Computer Education
- Physical Education
- World Languages
- Fine Arts
- Other
Mathematics
Algebra 1: Algebra I is an introductory course in the fundamentals of algebra and word problem
solving. Skill building and methodology are stressed throughout the year. The course includes the study of first and second degree equations, algebraic fractions, radicals, factoring, and graphing.
Prerequisite: Pre-Algebra or equivalent.
Geometry: This course is designed to prepare students to understand the importance of geometry in the world around us and to study the properties and relationships among lines, angles, and shapes which exist in two-dimensional and three dimensional spaces. We will study proofs (inductive and deductive) and there will be some explorations in non-Euclidean Geometry and integration of algebra and analytic geometry.
Prerequisite: Algebra I or equivalent.
Algebra 2: Algebra 2 is a college-preparatory course that focuses the fundamental concepts of linear and quadratic functions and then studies polynomials in general. Other types of functions will be studied as well: exponential and logarithmic, radical and rational, and trigonometric. Functions will be studied from an algebraic, numerical and graphical approach. A graphing calculator is helpful, although not required.
Prerequisite: Algebra 1 or equivalent; geometry highly recommended.
Pre-Calculus: This is the culminating third-year course in algebra in preparation for calculus and other advanced math courses. All types of functions are studied at a deeper level than in previous courses. Topics such as conic sections, series and sequences, and probability are also explored. A graphing calculator is necessary for this course.
Prerequisite: Algebra 2 or equivalent.
AP Calculus AB: This one year course prepares students for the AP Exam in Calculus AB. It is an introductory course in the study of limits, continuity, differential and integral calculus. Areas of study include related rates, maximization and minimization problems, solids of revolution, particle motion and centroid. Graphing calculators are required.
Additional information about this and all AP courses can be found at the College Board Website.
Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus or equivalent; "C" or better in pre-requisite course recommended.
AP Statistics: The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. Students are exposed to four broad conceptual themes: Exploring Data: Describing patterns and departures from patterns, Sampling and Experimentation: Planning and conducting a study, Anticipating Patterns: Exploring random phenomena using probability and simulation, Statistical Inference: Estimating population parameters and testing hypotheses.
Additional information about this and all AP courses can be found at the College Board Website.
Prerequisite: Algebra II or equivalent; "C" or better in pre-requisite course recommended.
Discrete Math: Discrete Math is taught to give students majoring in liberal arts, social sciences, education, business, and other nonscientific areas an understanding and appreciation of the many applications of mathematics. The material is used in a variety of settings, and emphasizes realistic and interesting applications.
Prerequisite: Algebra II or equivalent
Language Arts
English 9: Freshman English concentrates on the introduction of the major literary genres. Students will learn to read each genre with comprehension and develop the ability to analyze and interpret literature. Effective communication skills will be taught (both oral and written). Grammar and vocabulary are taught through literature and daily usage throughout the year. Descriptive, point of view, narrative and poetic writing styles will be introduced, with students creating their own portfolio.
English 10: world literature, seeks to expose students to the breadth (geographic) and depth (historical) of world imaginative literature. These works may include, but are not limited to, English, American, Middle Eastern, Latin American, Russian, Western and Eastern European, and ancient Greek texts. Students will critique these texts using standard literary tropes, with a particular emphasis on thoughtful, coherent, and critical argument..
English 11: This is a study of American literature from its beginning to the contemporary scene. Major American authors, especially novelists, will be studied in relationship to how their works reflect American history and embody American cultural value. Writing projects will develop both formal and informal styles.
English 12: This course is a thematic one whose focus varies every few years. Themes that have been discussed include: the villain in literature, the individual and society, our changing world. Students read, discuss, and analyze a variety of works dealing with a particular theme. How the theme is represented in our modern society is a major focus. In addition to critical reading, students also write cogent prose in a variety of genre.
AP English Language and Composition: Grade 11- The focus of this course is the analysis of a writer's purpose and how language contributes to that purpose. Students read a variety of non fiction text and write cogent responses using the resources of language. In addition, the course helps prepare students to take the AP Language and Composition exam.
AP English Literature & Composition: Grade 12 - This course emphasizes the development of skills in critical reading of imaginative and discursive literature and in writing about literature and related ideas. It is for students who are capable of doing college-level work in English while still in high school and who are willing to devote the energy necessary to keep up with the work load and to contribute meaningfully to class discussion.
Writing 9: The Essay: Freshman writing provides students with a framework for writing essays in a variety of disciplines. The primary focus is on the writing process: planning, organizing, composing, and editing pieces of writing. The 6 +1 Traits program* will be the instructional and evaluative tool. Creative writing and research will also be incorporated.
Plagiarism issues will be examined during the first quarter. Grammar and usage will be emphasized in the editing and rewriting process. The Vocabulary program is based on Greek and Latin Roots.
*For more information on the Traits go to: www.nwrel.org/assessment, click on "6 + 1 Traits," then click on "About."
Writing 10: Research Writing: The Writing 10 class builds upon the skills and topics introduced in Writing 9. The effective use of syntax, diction, and conventions will be incorporated into the study of essay, creative and research writing. The primary focus is on the research process: locating and evaluating sources, synthesizing and analyzing information, supporting a thesis, citing sources. Oral and multimedia presentations provide students with ample practice in presenting information. The 6 + 1 Traits writing program is the instructional and evaluative tool.* A vocabulary study of Greek and Latin Roots will continue from Grade 9. *For more information on the Traits go to: www.nwrel.org/assessment, click on "6 + 1 Traits," then click on "About."
Writing 11: Creative Writing: This course will focus on writing as a creative process. Major forms explored through reading models and writing assignments may include narration, description, poetry, short fiction, and drama. The essay and research will also be incorporated. In addition, students will learn how to respond to a variety of prompts and to the types of questions they may encounter in college. SAT preparation will include practicing short, on-demand essays. An SAT preparatory vocabulary program will also be used.
Writing 12: Preparation for College: This course focuses on college-level writing skills through college application essays, and culminating writing projects, such as portfolios, multi-genre papers and technical writing for presentations. Students will also develop academic/extracurricular resumes and write business and professional letters. The second semester is devoted to various forms of creative writing, research skills, and essay writing formats, such cause and effect, argument, and textual analysis. The 6 + 1 Traits writing program is the instructional and evaluative tool.* SAT preparatory vocabulary study will continue from Grade 11. For more information on the Traits go to: www.nwrel.org/assessment, click on "6 + 1 Traits," then click on "About."
Drama: (1 semester, 1/2 credit) This is a participation course which examines various principles, techniques and aspects of the theatre arts. Emphasis will be on acting, however, aspects of theatre history and technical theatre will also be explored. This is a content area course as well as a participation course. Students will be expected to informally and formally participate in ensembles, workshop performances and in the final class production.
Speech & Debate: (1 semester, 1/2 credit) - The goal of this course is to improve the student's ability to speak publicly for a variety of audiences and purposes. The first quarter deals with effective use of oral language as it is expressed in a variety of formal and informal speech modes. Selecting a topic, determining your purpose, analyzing your audience, organizing materials, wording your speech and delivering it will be the foundation upon which the second quarter of debate will be built. An intensive, full blown debate using the need/case plan will be the end goal of the semester. The fundamentals of argument, the methods of research, the development of team strategies and discussion of international social, economic and cultural problems will all be essential to learning the art of debate. Short debates and creative projects which teach discussion techniques and questioning strategies will be included.
Science
Integrated Physical Science: This course is a full year course which covers chemistry and physics at an introductory level. Chemistry topics covered include atomic theory, atomic models, periodic table, formulas and nomenclature for molecular and ionic compounds. Mass to mole conversions and acid base reactions will also be covered. In Physics, topics include speed, acceleration, and Newton's law of motion, velocity and momentum. If time permits a look at energy forms, particularly temperature.
Biology: This is a full year course covering the basics of molecular and cell biology. During the first semester the topics covered will include cells, energy, cell reproduction and biochemistry - which includes organic compounds and enzymes. The second semester will include genetics evolution, ecosystems, the fragile earth, and diversity of life. The themes of cell structure and function, stability and homeostasis, heredity, evolution, interdependence and matter, energy, and organization will serve as unifying concepts in biology.
Anatomy and Physiology: This is a semester course that surveys the main systems of the body. Typically, students will have already taken or are concurrently taking Biology. This course complements AP Biology and offers some background for student considering this course. The major focus will be on skin, muscles/skeletal system, the nervous system, digestion and reproduction. Within the context of the course, there will be additional discussions on the impact that diseases, disorders and malfunctions have on human beings as well as self-inflicted changes to our bodies.
Diseases: This is a semester course that surveys the main fields of infectious diseases. Typically, students will have already taken or are concurrently taking Biology. This course will examine the prevalent causes of diseases. The major focus will be on viral, bacterial, parasitic and fungal pathogens. Within the context of the course, there will be additional discussions on the impact that disease has on society and the economy.
Chemistry: A yearlong study of chemistry using experiments to introduce principles, and class discussion to clarify concepts. Students will investigate the atomic structure and chemical bonding, principles of chemical reactions, and molecular structure. The emphasis is on laboratory investigation, lectures and homework problems.
Prerequisite: Algebra I and a biology course.
Physics: The purpose of this course is to give students a thorough understanding of the basic concepts of physics and by means of many interesting applications, to prepare them to use physics in their own lives and their professions. Topics that will be covered include kinematics, dynamics, momentum and energy, electricity and magnetism, electromagnetic waves, light and relativity.
Prerequisite: Algebra II or concurrent enrollment
Environmental Science: This course focuses on the environmental issues that we face today. Major concepts, problems, and possible solutions are presented, creating the opportunity to explore these issues and formulate opinions. Prerequisite: Environmental Science can be taken by any student who has successfully completed Physical Science and Biology.
AP Biology: This course is designed to be the equivalent of a college introductory biology course usually taken by biology majors during their first year. AP Biology will include those topics regularly covered in a college biology course for majors. The three major topic areas of AP Biology include Molecules and Cells, Heredity and Evolution, and Organisms and Populations. The college course differs significantly from the usual first high school course in biology with respect to the kind of textbook used, the range and depth of topics covered, the kind of laboratory work done by students, and the time and effort required of students. 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.
Prerequisites: High School Biology recommended.
AP Chemistry: This course is the equivalent of the general chemistry course usually taken by chemistry majors in their first year of college. For some students, AP Chemistry enables them to undertake, as freshmen, second year work in the chemistry sequence at their institution or to register in courses in other fields where general chemistry is a prerequisite. Students will attain an in-depth understanding of fundamentals and a reasonable competence in dealing with chemical problems. The course will contribute to the development of the student's abilities to think clearly and to express ideas orally and in writing with clarity and logic.
Prerequisites: High School Chemistry recommended.
AP Physics (offered in alternate years with AP Chemistry - NOT offered in 08-09): Advanced Placement Physics B is a rigorous college level physics course designed for students planning on higher studies in science of engineering. The first semester covers Newtonian mechanics: the laws of motion, energy, momentum, simple harmonic motion, and gravitation. The first semester also covers waves, sound and light. The second semester includes topics on heat, thermodynamics, electrostatics, electric circuits, electromagnetic, and finally nuclear physics.
Prerequisites: pre calculus or concurrent.
Social Studies
Ancient World History: This is a year long course designed to develop understanding of the evolutionary global processes and contacts that arose between different types of human societies before the 1500s. The course emphasizes factual knowledge in combination with appropriate analytical skills. Students look at change and continuity across time from pre-history to the time period covered by the course. Emphasis is placed on interaction on a global scale as opposed to the traditional Eurocentric approach.
Modern World History: This is a year long course designed to develop the understanding of evolutionary global processes and contacts that arose between different types of human societies from 1500 to the present. The course emphasizes factual knowledge in combination with appropriate analytical skills. Students look at change and continuity during the time period. Emphasis is on interaction on a global scale as opposed to the traditional Eurocentric approach.
International Relations: (One semester, 1/2 credit) This course focuses on relationships among nations through the study of global issues. Special emphasis is places on the Middle East and the Arab/Israeli conflict.
AP Macroeconomics: Macro Economics is a two semester course designed to replicate the introductory macroeconomics course taught in a university setting. Primary analysis is based on the methods by which economic decision-makers affect the economy as a whole in terms of employment, price stability, and economic growth. Fiscal and monetary policies used to promote full employment, price stability, and economic growth are examined from the Classical Keynesian and Monetarists viewpoint. Issues pertinent to international trade and the stability of the international monetary system are also analyzed in regards to their effect on national economies.
Modern US History: This year long chronological survey of United States History focuses on the period from 1867 through the present day. Students will examine the political, social, economic, cultural, geographic, and diplomatic aspects of the United States as it grew from an isolated country to its modern-day status in the world.
AP United States History: The AP program in United States History is designed as a rigorous, college-level course to provide students with the analytical skills and factual knowledge necessary to deal critically with the problems and materials in U.S. History. Students should learn to assess historical materials - their relevance to a given interpretive problem, their reliability, and their importance - and to weigh the evidence and interpretations presented in historical scholarship. As well, the course helps students prepare for the AP U.S. History Exam offered in May.
AP World History: The AP program in World History is designed as a rigorous, college-level course to develop a greater understanding of the evolution of global processes and contacts in different types of human societies. Students' understanding is advanced though a combination of selective factual knowledge and appropriate analytical skills. The course highlights the nature of changes in global frameworks and their causes and consequences, as well as comparisons among major societies. Additionally, students are prepared to take the AP Exam in World History in May.
AP Psychology: Advanced Placement in Psychology is a one-year course. It is held for 90 minutes per class session. It introduces students to a variety of learning experiences aimed at a systematic and scientific study of human and animal mental processes and behaviors. Equivalent to an introductory college course in Psychology, the course will be conducted to explore and develop student critical thinking skills and to prepare for the AP Psychology examinations given toward the end of the school year. The most important objective however, is for student to apply their learning and understanding of psychological principles and the acquired skills to enhance the quality of their own lives, in particular, and to ultimately contribute more broadly and positively to that of the world community, in general.
AP Macroeconomics: Macro Economics is a two semester course designed to replicate the introductory macroeconomics course taught in a university setting. Primary analysis is based on the methods by which economic decision-makers affect the economy as a whole in terms of employment, price stability, and economic growth. Fiscal and monetary policies used to promote full employment, price stability, and economic growth are examined from the Classical Keynesian and Monetarists viewpoint. Issues pertinent to international trade and the stability of the international monetary system are also analyzed in regards to their effect on national economies.
Computer Education
Computer Literacy: (One semester, 1/2 credit) The computer literacy course is designed to provide a foundation of information technology skills and concepts that will prepare students for the use of technology in high school and later in college.
In the course we will review, remediate and expand upon the use of various applications that are linked to school wide standards involving operation of information technology systems, responsible use of hardware and software, use of productivity tools, selecting and evaluating information sources, and developing strategies for problem solving and decision making. Topics that we will cover include: productivity software, searching the internet, evaluating websites, web-based applications, social and ethical issues in technology.
Computer Graphics: (One semester, 1/2 credit) The computer graphics elective allows students to explore and develop skills in manipulating graphic images. We will investigate how computer graphics are used professionally and personally by students and adults. Students will work with graphics applications to develop individual proficiency so that they can utilize these resources academically and in their personal lives. Topics that we will cover include: basic photo corrections, working with selections, layers, masks and channels, painting, vector masks, paths, and shapes, social and ethical issues in technology.
Digital Media: (One semester, 1/2 credit) The digital media elective allows students to explore and develop skills in working with digital media in a variety of forms. We will investigate ways in which we encounter digital information in our lives through audio, video, images, and text. In conjunction with the course, students will work with digital media devices to develop individual proficiency so that they can utilize these resources academically and in their personal lives. All students are required to have a digital camera that they can use during this course. Topics that we will cover include: podcasting, video production, digital photography, desktop publishing, social and ethical issues in technology.
Web Design: (One semester, 1/2 credit) The Web Design course teaches skills in four key skill areas that are addressed within the context of the Web design and development process: project management and collaboration, design, research and communication, and professional Web-authoring tools. Using a project-based approach, the skill areas are addressed in phases that follow the design and development process. The key skills emphasized in this semester are: "soft" skills such as interviewing and responding to feedback, designing a website for clients, problem solving that helps support multiple perspectives, reflection about the design process and effective communication, peer teaching and evaluation in a collaborative environment, technical web publishing.
Physical Education
High School Physical Education: This course will stress health related fitness for life. The activities may include the following: basketball, soccer, volleyball, softball, team handball, lacrosse, badminton, track & field, football, rugby, dance and games of low organization.
Recreational Leadership: One semester, 1/2 credit or full year, one credit) Students will learn how to run a tournament, basic advertising techniques, and officiating skills through the playing of traditional sports and games of low organization. Basic athletic training techniques will also be covered. Some lifetime recreational activities may be offered, such as: squash, golf, bowling, swimming and visits to local gyms. Additional fees may be required for these activities. Students will be expected to officiate at selected ACS games and to run an Intramural activity as a major component of this course.
Prerequisite: 2 PE credits or equivalent.
Health: (1 semester, 1/2 credit) This one semester course is designed to introduce personal health topics to 9th and 10th graders. Students will learn to apply pertinent health information to their own lives and become more knowledgeable about their own wellness. Some of the topics that will be covered in this survey course will be in the areas of stress, reproduction, STD's including AIDS, alcohol, tobacco, drug abuse.
World Languages
Arabic for Native Speakers
Arabic 1: Classical Arabic level 1 is the beginning level course in the Arabic language. Students will be involved in learning the Arabic alphabet and recognizing the different forms of the letters, reading, writing, and learning the different sounds, intonation and pronunciation incorporated in the language. At the end of this course they should be able to read, follow simple instructions, and answer simple questions. Their vocabulary will be within 1000 words.
Arabic 2: Classical Arabic level 2 is offered to students who have completed the beginning level course. Students will be reading simple texts, answering comprehension questions, writing dictation, and learning simple grammar rules of the Arabic language.
Arabic 3: A course for students who have completed Arabic 1 and 2. This course enables students to develop their writing and reading skills. the will start the foundation for Arabic grammar.
Arabic 4: This course helps students to write descriptive expositions utilizing correct writing mechanics. Students also develop oral language and fluency.
Arabic 5: his course helps students develop their reading comprehension skills and strategies. Grammar is reinforced through writing well developed paragraphs.
Arabic 6: In this course comprehension is reinforced with short story summaries. Written and oral discussions and presentations are an important part of this course.
Arabic 7: In this course students applications skills are stressed. Grammar is taught as means to improve writing.
Arabic 8: An intermediate course where emphasis will be on improving reading and writing skills. Reviewing grammar rules carries on till upper levels of Arabic.
Arabic 9: Emphasis will be on comprehension, improving reading and writing skills, and an in-depth review and application of previous grammar.
Arabic 10: Emphasis will be on developing writing skills and gaining an insight into Arabic literature modeling different ages beginning with the jahiliyah and ending with the modern times.
Arabic 11: This is a course in Arabic literature and poetry appreciation. Students will be involved in studying a brief history of Arabic literature and poetry, discussing characteristics of both through the different ages beginning with the hegira era through the Omayyad, Abbassid and into modern and contemporary times.
Arabic for Non-Native Speakers:
- Arabic I
- Arabic II
- Arabic III
- Arabic IV
French:
French I: Basic grammar and vocabulary are introduced through dialogues, conversation, and cassettes. This course emphasizes the acquisition of listening and speaking skills through situations requiring simple and functional grammar and vocabulary. Students will also develop writing and reading skills.
French II: The emphasis in French II will be on further practice in developing oral and written proficiency. The study of more complex structures is accompanied by an increased emphasis on the skills of composition and reading. Students are involved daily in conversation.
French III: Conversational and writing competency are stressed in third-year French. The course places equal emphasis on grammar, conversation, and reading. Essays on a regular basis will develop written skills. Students will read full length paperback books throughout the year. More advanced grammar and vocabulary will be studied through dialogues, songs, poems, current events and short stories. Students will strengthen oral skills by giving oral presentations. Class is conducted in French.
French IV: A complete review of all basic grammar and verb tenses is given in this course, as well as the study of idiomatic expressions. The main objective of French IV is to help students formulate their own ideas, both orally and in writing. Oral proficiency will be developed through the introduction of contemporary French Civilization. Students will give oral presentations to strengthen their skills. The reading and discussion of current events and literature will support the acquisition of advanced grammar and vocabulary. Essays and textual analysis develop written skills. Class is conducted in French .
AP French: Students who enroll in AP French Language should already have a good command of French grammar and vocabulary and have competence in listening, reading, speaking, and writing. Although these qualifications may be attained in a variety of ways, it is assumed that most students will be in the final stages of their secondary school training and will have had substantial course work in the language. The course will emphasize the use of language for active communication and help students develop the following:
1. The ability to understand spoken French in various contexts
2. A French vocabulary sufficiently ample for reading newspaper and magazine articles,
literary texts, and other non-technical writings without dependence on a dictionary
- The ability to express themselves coherently, resourcefully, and with reasonable fluency and accuracy in both written and spoken French.
Students will be required to take the French language AP exam.
Spanish
Spanish I: The course introduces the Spanish language to students with no previous Spanish language background. The students will start to learn basic grammar and vocabulary through conversation, short stories, short essays, games, and songs. Emphasis is on developing skills for listening, reading, and writing. Throughout the course, the students are introduced to the rich culture and tradition of the Spanish-speaking world. The class will be conducted both in Spanish and English.
Spanish II: The course targets students who have taken high school level Spanish I. Students will review and reinforce the grammar rules introduced and learned in Spanish I. They will improve their ability for self-expression through daily conversation, listening to tapes, reading stories, and writing essays. They will further appreciate the Spanish culture and tradition by doing research projects on them. The class will be conducted as much as possible in Spanish and in combination with English only when needed.
Spanish III: This course targets students who have completed high school levels Spanish I and Spanish II. Students will review and further reinforce the grammar rules introduced and learned in levels Spanish I and Spanish II, as well as improve their communication skills through daily conversation. They will be exposed to a lot of Spanish language reading materials to continue to enrich their vocabulary and to furher enhance their reading comprehension skills. Additional vocabulary and advanced grammar structures will further improve their ability for self-expression in written work. Hispanic culture and tradition will be learned in depth by students' doing research work on them.
Spanish IV: This course is preparatory to taking the AP Spanish Language examination. The course will help students gain mastery of the language. Students will focus working on listening, reading, speaking and writing exercises simulating an AP examination. Students will likewise be reading known literary selections from authors of the Hispanic countries to learn in depth the language and culture of the countries.
AP Spanish: The Advanced Spanish Language course is comparable to an advanced level college Spanish language course. Emphasizing the use of Spanish for active communication, the course encompasses students' listening and reading authentic Hispanic materials and expressing in writing their thoughts with accuracy and fluency using appropriate vocabulary, idiomatic expressions, and conventions in expository writing.
Fine Arts
Concert Band: Offered to 6-12 Grade students. Students will learn how to play and care for their instrument, how to read music and translate that music into performance on their instrument. Historical musical periods and an understanding of stylistic differences in music for concert band will be explored. An introductory conference with the band director is required for admission in this band. Despite the name "Beginning Band", most students will have at least one year of experience playing their chosen band Instrument. Previous experience in playing a band instrument is encouraged but NOT required. Students playing an instrument for the first time may need to utilize after and before school tutoring to adjust to the repertoire demands. Members of this band have the opportunity to attend the EMAC Junior Varsity and Varsity Fine Arts Festivals.
Symphonic Band: Primarily an intermediate to advanced band performing music of all style periods from the Early Baroque up to the present day modern concert and popular styles. Members of this band have the opportunity to attend the EMAC Junior Varsity and Varsity Fine Arts Festivals. They may also audition for the International Honors Band Festival held annually in Europe. Admission to this band is by audition and conference with the band director. Previous experience in playing a band instrument is essential.
Art I: This is a foundation course designed for the interested student to obtain basic skills, knowledge, concepts, and understanding of art. The student is to experience creative problem solving in two and three dimensional forms. Design elements and principles, color theory, drawing, painting, collage, ceramics, relief print making, and sculpture are studied. The student will learn to see and feel visual relationships, give critical evaluations of art, and demonstrate knowledge and understanding of art past and present. The student will learn to value art as an important realm of human experience as put forth in the discipline based structure of this course. Fields in art may be examined and practiced to offer vocational and professional career possibilities.
Art II: (Must have one year of High School Art or equivalent) For students who want to broaden their art experiences and further develop skills in drawing and painting. Concentrated sessions include both representation and conceptual expression. Categories covered include still life, portrait, figure, linear perspective, interiors, exteriors. Students have the opportunity to build a portfolio in preparation for completing an AP studio art portfolio.
AP Art: (Must have completed Art II or equivalent) Designed for the serious art student who wants to fulfill requirements for a freshman college art course in the form of a completed drawing, 2-D design, or 3-D design portfolio containing forty to fifty quality art works. Students will solve problems in both representational and abstract categories exhibiting an ability to work at an intensive level in a broad range of styles and media. Students will also spend considerable time on a concentration or group of works with specific intent and direction. Work outside of class is required for this course. Prerequisite: Art II and/or teacher evaluation.
Three-Dimensional Art (3D): (One semester, 1/2 credit; or full year, 1 credit) This elective course is open for all high school students. A discipline based approach to the subject, students will perceive and respond to 3-D design; produce original creative forms using elements and principles of design. Students will investigate selected historical and contemporary 3-D forms and their sociological origins and learn methods of production by using a variety of materials and techniques. Three-dimensional art can include but may not be limited to sculpture (all forms), ceramics, and textiles. Art should be a prerequisite but is not required.
Yearbook
Yearbook: This elective class is where the school's annual publication is created and published. Students in this class will learn the basics of publication design including: planning for publications, creating content, designing layouts, and digital imaging. Staff members will be introduced to and use publishing software such as Adobe Photoshop and Adobe InDesign. As the deadline for printing approaches, the class will be divided into departments where each team will specialize and be responsible for different aspects of the Yearbook (layout, editorial, photography, etc...). This elective requires enormous dedication, commitment and readiness to occasionally work outside class hours.