HONORS AND AP COURSES

ENGLISH HONORS

English 1 Honors promotes academic excellence in English language arts through the strands of reading process, literary analysis, writing process, writing applications, communication, and information and media literacy. This course provides instruction in critical analysis of major literary genres. Composition instruction focuses upon using the writing process in creative, technical, and traditional academic modes in both times and untimed settings. All stages of the writing process are addressed: prewriting, drafting, revising, editing, and publishing. Formal speaking experiences are provided.Technology is incorporated into all aspects of the course.

English 2 Honors promotes excellence in English language arts through the study of world literature. This course provides instruction in universal themes found in world literature as well as in the critical analysis of various genres in that literature. Composition instruction emphasizes the creative, technical, and traditional academic modes of writing through the writing process (prewriting, drafting, revising, editing, and publishing); frequent timed and untimed practice is provided. The study of language includes usage, mechanics, and other conventions of standard written English as they relate to students’ writing. Formal and informal speaking opportunities are provided. Vocabulary study is done in conjunction with reading and literature. Technology is incorporated into all aspects of the course.

This course promotes excellence in English language arts through enriched experiences through the strands of reading process, literary analysis, writing process, writing applications, communication, and information and media literacy. Instruction includes frequent practice in writing various types of multi-paragraph essays, including documented papers;
written and oral analysis of American literature representing the ethnic and cultural diversity of the American  experience; and analysis of American dialects reflected in the literature. Reference skills and methods of summarizing are taught in the production of documented papers/projects. All phases of the writing process are utilized where appropriate (prewriting, drafting, revising, editing, and publishing). Formal and informal speech experiences are provided. Technology is incorporated into all aspects of the course.

English Honors 4 promotes excellence in English language arts through enriched experiences in communication skills and instruction in the literature of Great Britain. Instruction will cover the written and oral analysis of major British literary works of various genres in relationship to cultural influences and to the development of the literary traditions of the English language. Writing assignments will develop students’ abilities to interpret literature and analyze it critically. All phases of the writing process will be utilized where appropriate (prewriting, drafting, revising, editing,  and publishing). Students will also extend their speaking, researching, and listening, skills. Language study should include vocabulary and grammar in the context of literature and writing and an overview of the history of the language as reflected in literature. Technology is incorporated into all aspects of the course.

MATH HONORS

This course is a rigorous in-depth study of the topics of Algebra I designed to develop the algebraic concepts and processes that can be used to solve a variety of real-world mathematics problems.

The content will include:

  • structure and properties of the real number system;
  • varied means for analyzing and expressing patterns,
  • relations and functions;
  • variables, algebraic expressions and polynomials;
  • geometric concepts;
  • set operations;
  • dimensional analysis;
  • data analysis
  • concepts and techniques; and varied solution strategies,
  • algebraic and graphic, for inequalities, linear and quadratic
  • equations, and for systems of equations.
  • Calculators and computers will serve as instructional tools in concept development.

This course is a rigorous in-depth study of the topics of Algebra II with emphasis on theory, proof, and development of formulas, as well as their application.

The content will include:

  • structure and properties of the complex number system;
  • sequences and series;
  • relations; functions and graphs;
  • varied solution strategies for linear equations,
  • inequalities, and systems of equations and inequalities;
  • conic sections and their applications;
  • quadratic, exponential, and logarithmic functions; and the Binomial Theorem.
  • Calculators and computers will serve as instructional tools in concept development.

This course is designed to give a rigorous in-depth study of geometry with emphasis on methods of proof and the formal language of mathematics. The content will include the following:

  • structure of geometry;
  • separation properties;
  • angle concepts; triangles, quadrilaterals; proofs,
  • perpendicularity and parallelism in a plane and in space;
  • similar polygons; circles and spheres; constructions;
  • area and volume; coordinate geometry, and topology.
  • Calculators and computers will serve as instructional tools in concept development.

This course emphasizes conceptual and graphical understanding of functions. It reinforces critical thinking and keeps pace with the changes in mathematics and its applications. The content of this course includes:

  • The study of a variety of function types (polynomial, exponential, logarithmic, periodic, rational), as well as function transformations and function inverses,
  • the Binomial Theorem, mathematical induction,
  • sequences and series, combinatorics and probability,trigonometry, complex numbers,
  • polar coordinates and topics at the onset of Calculus: limits and derivatives.

The course provides students with the foundation necessary for the rigors of future mathematics courses, including Calculus. This course also prepares students well for the SAT Subject Test Mathematics Level 2. This course is fastpaced with coverage of Pre-Calculus topics in depth, including problem-solving in most units. Since Honors PreCalculus is a college-level course, many of its topics extend beyond the K-12 Mathematics standards.

SCIENCE HONORS

The purpose of this course is to enable students to develop understanding of the relationships between the structures and functions of the human body. The content should include, but not be limited to, the following:

  • implementation of scientific habits of mind
  •  application of scientific knowledge, methodology, and historical context to solve problems
  •  use of laboratory technologies
  •  terminology
  •  cells and tissues
  •  homeostasis
  •  human genetics, growth, and development
  •  body composition, structure, and function
  •  internal and external changes and responses
  •  connections between anatomy, physiology, medicine, technology, society, and the environment

Biology 1 Honors will provide opportunities to students for general exploratory experiences and activities in the fundamental concepts of life. Topics will include but not be limited to: the scientific method, laboratory apparatus usage and safety, biochemistry, cell biology, genetics, botany, zoology, human anatomy and physiology, and  ecological relationships. Laboratory activities that include the use of the scientific method, measurement, laboratory apparatus, and safety are an integral part of this course.

Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation

Chemistry I Honors will provide students with an opportunity to study the composition, properties and changes associated with matter. Topics will include but not be limited to: heat, changes of matter, atomic structure, bonding, the periodic tables, formulas, equations, mole concept, gas laws, reactions, solutions, equilibrium systems, and oxidation reduction reactions. Laboratory activities that include the use of the scientific method, measurement, laboratory apparatus, and safety are an integral part of this course.

Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation

Physics I Honors will provide students with an in depth study of the theories and laws governing the interaction of matter, energy, and the forces of nature. Topics will include but not be limited to: kinematics, dynamics, energy, work, power, heat and thermodynamics, wave characteristics, light, electricity, magnetism, and nuclear physics. Virtual Laboratory activities that include the use of the scientific method, measurement, laboratory apparatus, and safety are an integral part of this course.

Prerequisite: Algebra 2

SOCIAL STUDIES HONORS

American History Honors will provide students with the opportunity to acquire an in-depth and comprehensive understanding of the chronological development of the American people by examining the political, economic, social, religious, military, scientific, and cultural events that have affected the nation. Implicit in this is an understanding of the historical method, the inquiry process, historical reasoning and interpretation, and the issues of external and internal validity.

Prerequisite: Recommended for 11th Grade

Students will acquire understanding in currency, banking, and monetary policy, the fundamental concepts relevant to the major economic systems, the global market and economy, major economic theories and economists, the role and COURSE CATALOG – 2019-2020 25 influence of the government and fiscal policies, economic measurements, tools, and methodology, financial and investment markets, and the business cycle. Students will develop the critical skills of analysis, synthesis, and evaluation in a more rigorous and reflective academic setting. Students are empowered to perform at higher levels as they engage in the following: analyzing historical documents and supplementary readings, working in the context of thematically categorized information, becoming proficient in note-taking, participating in Socratic seminars/discussions, emphasizing free-response and document-based writing, contrasting opposing viewpoints, solving problems, etc. Students will develop and demonstrate their skills through participation in a capstone and/or extended research-based paper/project (e.g., history fair, participatory citizenship project, mock congressional hearing, projects for competitive evaluation, investment portfolio contests, or other teacher-directed projects).

Prerequisite: Recommended for 12th Grade

World History Honors will provide students the opportunity to acquire a comprehensive understanding of the past in terms of what has been interpreted about change or process as it related to the development of humanity. This is done by analyzing the political, economic, social, religious, military, dynastic, scientific, and cultural events that have shaped and molded humanity. Implicit in this is an understanding of the historical method, the inquiry process, historical reasoning and interpretation.

Prerequisite: Recommended for 10th Grade

ENGLISH AP

The course provides a study of the semantic, structural, and rhetorical resources of the English language as they relate to the principles of effective writing. Examples of prose from various fields and periods serve as models of effective writing. This course provides a variety of writing opportunities that require the use of different styles and tones. Students develop individual writing styles adaptable to writing needs in college. Students are expected to take the Advanced Placement examination offered by the College Board.

This course involves students in the study and practice of writing and in the study of literature. Students learn to use the modes of discourse and to recognize the assumptions underlying various rhetorical strategies. Students acquire an understanding of the resources of the language and an understanding of the writer’s craft through the study of poetry, drama, fiction and expository prose. Students develop critical standards for the analysis of any literary work and increase their sensitivity to literature as shared experience. Students are expected to take the College Board examination for Advanced Placement English Composition and Literature.

MATH AP

The purpose of this course is to offer students college-level mathematics under the guideline of the advanced placement program. The focus is on preparation for the statistics test given by the College Examination Board. Topics of study will
include exploring data, using measurement in planning a study, producing models using probability and simulation to anticipate patterns, and statistical interference. Calculators and computers will serve as instructional tools in concept development. The purpose of the AP course in statistics 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 hypothesesctional tools in concept development.

This course is designed to offer students college-level mathematics under the guidelines of the Advanced Placement Program. The focus is on preparation for the Calculus Level AB Test given by the College Examination Board in May. Study will begin by reviewing function definitions, absolute value, and elementary functions from prerequisites.
Calculators and computers will serve as instructional tools in concept development. AP Calculus AB is a course designed to offer students college level mathematics under the guidelines of the Advanced Placement Program. The student enrolled in this course will be expected to take the Advanced Placement Examination in Calculus AB. Download a
complete course description from the College Board website.

SCIENCE AP

Advanced Placement Biology will provide students with a college level course in biology and will prepare the student to seek credit and/or appropriate placement in college biology courses. Topics will include but not be limited to: molecular and cellular biology, organism biology, and population biology. Laboratory activities that include the use of the scientific method, measurement, laboratory apparatus, and safety are an integral part of this course.

Prerequisite: Biology/Biology Honors and Teacher Recommendation

The purpose of this course is to study the development and application of chemistry principles and concepts. Includes the study of atomic structure and theory, the chemical properties of matter, chemical reactions, and energy changes. In addition, the student is given the opportunity to learn from detailed laboratory exercises, special projects, and research. Science, technology, and societal issues are integrated throughout the course.

Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation

Advanced Placement Physics will provide students with a college level course in physics and will prepare students to seek credit and/or appropriate placement in college physics courses. Topics will include but not be limited to: kinematics, Newton’s Laws of Motion, conservation laws in classical mechanics, torque, rotational equilibrium,
gravitation, oscillation, kinetic theory and thermodynamics, electrostatics, electric currents, magnetism, waves and optics, and modern physics. Laboratory activities that include the use of the scientific method, measurement, laboratory apparatus, and safety are an integral part of this course.

Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation

SOCIAL STUDIES AP

The AP World History course offers motivated students the opportunity to immerse themselves in the processes that, over time, have resulted in the knitting of the world into a tightly integrated whole. The course will cover 4 chronological periods from approximately 1000 AD to the present with careful preparation in terms of previous developments known as the Foundations segment. Topics include, but are not limited to impact of interaction among major societies, the relationship of change and continuity impact of technology and demography on people and environment, systems of social structure and gender structure, cultural and intellectual developments, changes in functions and structures of states and in attitudes toward states and political identities.

Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation

Advanced Placement American History will provide students with the opportunity to develop the analytic skills and factual knowledge necessary to deal critically with the problems, content, and materials of American historic development. Integral components of this course will include, but not be limited to, the formation of generalizations from primary sources in history, the synthesis and evaluation of information, the development of a set of criteria for judging proposed courses of action in terms of actual and projected consequences, the comparison of eras with similar trends, and analysis of the impact of major historical figures and groups on American and world events, the detection of bias in making conclusions, and the emergence of patterns in historical development.

Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation

This course will give students a critical perspective on politics and government in the United States. It requires familiarity with the various institutions, groups, beliefs, and ideas that make up the American political reality. Specific content to be covered will include, but not be limited to, an understanding of federalism and the separation of powers, the development of the constitution, the process of politics, the nature of public opinion, the role of political parties and interest groups, the major formal and informal institutional arrangement of powers, and the development of civil liberties and civil rights.
Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation

Advanced Placement Macroeconomics gives students an opportunity to analyze the worldwide effects of economic activities and their impact on taxation, monetary policy, balance of trade issues, government policy, exchange rates, and similar “big picture” concepts. Students will understand economic concepts, vocabulary, and statistical interpretation of economic data.

Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation

AP* Psychology provides an overview of current psychological research methods and theories. Students will explore the therapies used by professional counselors and clinical psychologists and examine the reasons for normal human reactions: how people learn and think, the process of human development and human aggression, altruism, intimacy, and self-reflection. They will study core psychological concepts, such as the brain and sense functions, and learn to gauge human reactions, gather information, and form meaningful syntheses. Along the way, students will also investigate relevant concepts like study skills and information retention. The equivalent of an introductory college-level survey course, AP Psychology prepares students for the AP exam and for further studies in psychology or life sciences.

AMERICAN HIGH SCHOOL ACCREDITATION

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