Course Catelog
PreAlgebra
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: 9th
Description: This course emphasizes solving mathematical and real-world problems involving linear relationships. Additionally, students will move fluently among the graphic, numeric, symbolic, and verbal representations of these patterns. A student will receive one elective math credit upon successful completion of this course.
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: 9th
Description: This course emphasizes solving mathematical and real-world problems involving linear relationships. Additionally, students will move fluently among the graphic, numeric, symbolic, and verbal representations of these patterns. A student will receive one elective math credit upon successful completion of this course.
Algebra I
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: 9th – 10th
Description: This course emphasizes the study of linear relationships, including systems of equations with three unknowns, formalized function notation, and the development of bivariate data analysis. Additionally, students will explore exponential and quadratic function families including rules of exponentiation, and use of standard and vertex forms for quadratic equations. Students will also develop their knowledge of power and polynomial patterns of change and the applications they model. A student will receive one required math credit upon successful completion of this course.
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: 9th – 10th
Description: This course emphasizes the study of linear relationships, including systems of equations with three unknowns, formalized function notation, and the development of bivariate data analysis. Additionally, students will explore exponential and quadratic function families including rules of exponentiation, and use of standard and vertex forms for quadratic equations. Students will also develop their knowledge of power and polynomial patterns of change and the applications they model. A student will receive one required math credit upon successful completion of this course.
Geometry
Prerequisite: successful completion of Algebra I (may be taken concurrently by departmental permission)
Recommended Grade Level: 10th – 11th
Description: This course emphasizes analytic and spatial reasoning, applying knowledge about two-dimensional figures to three-dimensional figures in real-world contexts. Additionally, students will study right triangle trigonometry, coordinate geometry, formal logic and proof to develop deductive reasoning skills. A student will receive one required math credit upon successful completion of this course.
Prerequisite: successful completion of Algebra I (may be taken concurrently by departmental permission)
Recommended Grade Level: 10th – 11th
Description: This course emphasizes analytic and spatial reasoning, applying knowledge about two-dimensional figures to three-dimensional figures in real-world contexts. Additionally, students will study right triangle trigonometry, coordinate geometry, formal logic and proof to develop deductive reasoning skills. A student will receive one required math credit upon successful completion of this course.
Algebra II
Prerequisite: successful completion of Geometry (may be taken concurrently by departmental permission)
Recommend Grade Level: 11th – 12th
Description: This course emphasizes the study of exponential and logarithmic functions and further enlarges the catalog of function families to include rational and trigonometric functions. Additionally, students will extend the numeric and logarithmic ideas of accuracy, error, sequences, and iteration. Applications of conic sections and statistics are also studied. A student will receive one required math credit upon successful completion of this course.
Prerequisite: successful completion of Geometry (may be taken concurrently by departmental permission)
Recommend Grade Level: 11th – 12th
Description: This course emphasizes the study of exponential and logarithmic functions and further enlarges the catalog of function families to include rational and trigonometric functions. Additionally, students will extend the numeric and logarithmic ideas of accuracy, error, sequences, and iteration. Applications of conic sections and statistics are also studied. A student will receive one required math credit upon successful completion of this course.
Probability and Statistics I
Prerequisite: successful completion of Algebra I
Recommended Grade Level: 10th – 11th
Description: This course emphasizes methods for summarizing data, introduces students to mathematical models for random phenomena, and provides the tools for decision making under uncertainty. Additionally, technology (calculators or statistical software) will be used for computations, graphing, and running simulations. A student will receive a half elective math credit upon successful completion of this course.
Prerequisite: successful completion of Algebra I
Recommended Grade Level: 10th – 11th
Description: This course emphasizes methods for summarizing data, introduces students to mathematical models for random phenomena, and provides the tools for decision making under uncertainty. Additionally, technology (calculators or statistical software) will be used for computations, graphing, and running simulations. A student will receive a half elective math credit upon successful completion of this course.
Probability and Statistics II
Prerequisite: successful completion of Probability and Statistics I
Recommended Grade Level: 11th – 12th
Description: This course further emphasizes summarizing data, mathematical models, and decision making. Additionally, students will study concepts of sampling, normal distributions, and bias. A student will receive a half elective math credit upon successful completion of this course.
Prerequisite: successful completion of Probability and Statistics I
Recommended Grade Level: 11th – 12th
Description: This course further emphasizes summarizing data, mathematical models, and decision making. Additionally, students will study concepts of sampling, normal distributions, and bias. A student will receive a half elective math credit upon successful completion of this course.
PreCalculus
Prerequisite: successful completion of Algebra II
Recommended Grade Level: 12th
Description: This course emphasizes algebra concepts and procedures at higher conceptual levels, as a tool, and in the study of other subjects. The theory and applications of trigonometry and functions are developed in depth. Additionally, vectors, matrices, and polar coordinates are introduced. Families of functions will be used for modeling and solving real-world problems. PreCalculus is strongly recommended for all college bound students. A student will receive one elective math credit upon successful completion of this course.
Prerequisite: successful completion of Algebra II
Recommended Grade Level: 12th
Description: This course emphasizes algebra concepts and procedures at higher conceptual levels, as a tool, and in the study of other subjects. The theory and applications of trigonometry and functions are developed in depth. Additionally, vectors, matrices, and polar coordinates are introduced. Families of functions will be used for modeling and solving real-world problems. PreCalculus is strongly recommended for all college bound students. A student will receive one elective math credit upon successful completion of this course.
Calculus
Prerequisite: successful completion of PreCalculus
Recommended Grade Level: 12th
Description: This course emphasizes application of derivatives and integrals in problem solving. Additionally, students will study limits, differentiation techniques, related rates, and optimization. A student will receive one elective math credit upon successful completion of this course.
Prerequisite: successful completion of PreCalculus
Recommended Grade Level: 12th
Description: This course emphasizes application of derivatives and integrals in problem solving. Additionally, students will study limits, differentiation techniques, related rates, and optimization. A student will receive one elective math credit upon successful completion of this course.
Business Math
Prerequisite: successful completion of Algebra II
Recommended Grade Level: 12th
Description: This course emphasizes applications of mathematics in business. Students will be exposed to financial and economic concepts in business and personal life. Additionally, technology (calculators or Internet) will be used for data collection, computations, and projects. Students will study the stock market, banking, credit, and the tax system. A student will receive one elective math credit upon successful completion of this course.
Prerequisite: successful completion of Algebra II
Recommended Grade Level: 12th
Description: This course emphasizes applications of mathematics in business. Students will be exposed to financial and economic concepts in business and personal life. Additionally, technology (calculators or Internet) will be used for data collection, computations, and projects. Students will study the stock market, banking, credit, and the tax system. A student will receive one elective math credit upon successful completion of this course.
Physical Science (2 Semesters; 1 credit)
Biology (2 Semesters; 1 credit)
Prerequisite: NONE
Recommended Grade Level: Primarily Grade 10
Description: Honors Biology is a full year preparatory course in the life sciences. Study will include brief studies of all the key facets of living organisms-including cell structure and function; a evaluation of the major kingdoms of organisms; selected topics in human anatomy, physiology, genetics and reproduction; and an introduction to major ecological and evolutionary concepts.
Prerequisite: NONE
Recommended Grade Level: Primarily Grade 10
Description: Honors Biology is a full year preparatory course in the life sciences. Study will include brief studies of all the key facets of living organisms-including cell structure and function; a evaluation of the major kingdoms of organisms; selected topics in human anatomy, physiology, genetics and reproduction; and an introduction to major ecological and evolutionary concepts.
Honors Biology (2 Semesters; 1 credit)
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor and Department Lead
Recommended Grade Level: Primarily Grade 10
Description: Honors Biology is a full year preparatory course in the life sciences. Study will include brief studies of all the major facets of living organisms-including cell structure and function; a survey of the major kingdoms of organisms; selected topics in human anatomy, physiology, genetics and reproduction; and an introduction to major ecological and evolutionary concepts. The honors class will move at a faster pace than the regular section and will be expected to handle more material.
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor and Department Lead
Recommended Grade Level: Primarily Grade 10
Description: Honors Biology is a full year preparatory course in the life sciences. Study will include brief studies of all the major facets of living organisms-including cell structure and function; a survey of the major kingdoms of organisms; selected topics in human anatomy, physiology, genetics and reproduction; and an introduction to major ecological and evolutionary concepts. The honors class will move at a faster pace than the regular section and will be expected to handle more material.
Chemistry (2 Semesters; 1 credit)
Prerequisite: Algebra
Recommended Grade Level: Primarily Grade (s) 11 and 12
Description: A pre-college course that includes the study of chemical terminology, the periodic table of the elements, chemical nomenclature, equation writing and chemical problem solving, interactions of matter, atomic structure and the principles of chemistry. The purpose of the course is to provide the student who has little or no background the opportunity to prepare for general chemistry at the post secondary level. Course work will include: Lectures, Laboratory group work, and demonstrations.
Prerequisite: Algebra
Recommended Grade Level: Primarily Grade (s) 11 and 12
Description: A pre-college course that includes the study of chemical terminology, the periodic table of the elements, chemical nomenclature, equation writing and chemical problem solving, interactions of matter, atomic structure and the principles of chemistry. The purpose of the course is to provide the student who has little or no background the opportunity to prepare for general chemistry at the post secondary level. Course work will include: Lectures, Laboratory group work, and demonstrations.
AP Physics (2 Semesters, 1 credit)
Prerequisite: Algebra II
Recommended Grade Level: 11th and 12th
Description: The AP Physics 1 course will meet for 60 minutes every day from 6:55 to 7:55 am and recommended tutoring will take place from 2:00 to 3:00 pm. Working cooperatively with other students during labs will be very important throughout the year. This course is conducted using inquiry-based instructional strategies that focus on experimentation to develop students’ conceptual understanding of physics principles. Students will observe and discover patterns in nature by testing and developing models. Problem solving techniques will be developed throughout the year as students must connect scientific concepts in order to synthesize solutions to complex problems. During this course students will have the opportunity to achieve the learning objectives in a variety of ways while also applying their knowledge to real-world occupations or societal concerns. Concepts will be explored in a variety of ways including readings, demonstrations, videos, and discussions. The textbooks and practice AP exams will be used for students to practice answering questions; short answer and problem solving. Students must do plenty of practice problems for homework or during tutoring because much of the class time will be dedicated to lab work that includes group discussions, planning, researching, collecting data, and presenting of conclusions. Students will be expected to increasingly take on more responsibility in the design and planning of the experiments as the year progresses.
Prerequisite: Algebra II
Recommended Grade Level: 11th and 12th
Description: The AP Physics 1 course will meet for 60 minutes every day from 6:55 to 7:55 am and recommended tutoring will take place from 2:00 to 3:00 pm. Working cooperatively with other students during labs will be very important throughout the year. This course is conducted using inquiry-based instructional strategies that focus on experimentation to develop students’ conceptual understanding of physics principles. Students will observe and discover patterns in nature by testing and developing models. Problem solving techniques will be developed throughout the year as students must connect scientific concepts in order to synthesize solutions to complex problems. During this course students will have the opportunity to achieve the learning objectives in a variety of ways while also applying their knowledge to real-world occupations or societal concerns. Concepts will be explored in a variety of ways including readings, demonstrations, videos, and discussions. The textbooks and practice AP exams will be used for students to practice answering questions; short answer and problem solving. Students must do plenty of practice problems for homework or during tutoring because much of the class time will be dedicated to lab work that includes group discussions, planning, researching, collecting data, and presenting of conclusions. Students will be expected to increasingly take on more responsibility in the design and planning of the experiments as the year progresses.
Physics (2 Semesters, 1 credit)
Prerequisite: Algebra II
Recommended Grade Level: 11th and 12th
Description: Students will be able to perform scientific experiments and will support their conclusions using data, research, and background information. Students will also be tested on scientific processes and vocabulary set by the Michigan High School Content Expectations for physics. Students will become better scientific readers and writers by comparing scientific viewpoints and by supporting their own conclusions, guided by science texts and the Common Core Standards.
Prerequisite: Algebra II
Recommended Grade Level: 11th and 12th
Description: Students will be able to perform scientific experiments and will support their conclusions using data, research, and background information. Students will also be tested on scientific processes and vocabulary set by the Michigan High School Content Expectations for physics. Students will become better scientific readers and writers by comparing scientific viewpoints and by supporting their own conclusions, guided by science texts and the Common Core Standards.
Intro to STEM (1 Semester, .5 credit)
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: all grades
Description: Students will explore the world of STEM: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Students will be able to perform scientific experiments and will support their conclusions using data, research, and background information. Students will also use projects to explore and explain new ideas. Students will work in groups to support the idea of scientific teamwork. Students will become better scientific readers and writers by comparing scientific viewpoints and by supporting their own conclusions, guided by science texts and the Common Core Standards.
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: all grades
Description: Students will explore the world of STEM: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Students will be able to perform scientific experiments and will support their conclusions using data, research, and background information. Students will also use projects to explore and explain new ideas. Students will work in groups to support the idea of scientific teamwork. Students will become better scientific readers and writers by comparing scientific viewpoints and by supporting their own conclusions, guided by science texts and the Common Core Standards.
Humanities in Literature (1 Semester; .5 credit)
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: all grades
Description: Focuses on enhancing close and critical reading skills, critical thinking skills, as well as a deeper understanding of themes and language in various genres of literature. The course emphasizes college readiness, in alignment with the SAT standards.
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: all grades
Description: Focuses on enhancing close and critical reading skills, critical thinking skills, as well as a deeper understanding of themes and language in various genres of literature. The course emphasizes college readiness, in alignment with the SAT standards.
Academic Literacy (1 Semester, .5 credit)
Prerequisite: teacher recommendation
Recommended Grade Level: 9th
Description: This is a semester course that will help to increase comprehension, fluency, and engagement in reading. Students will become confident and capable of analyzing a variety of texts and gain opportunities for improving writing organization, word choice, fluency, and conventions.
Prerequisite: teacher recommendation
Recommended Grade Level: 9th
Description: This is a semester course that will help to increase comprehension, fluency, and engagement in reading. Students will become confident and capable of analyzing a variety of texts and gain opportunities for improving writing organization, word choice, fluency, and conventions.
AP English Literature and Composition (2 Semesters, 1 credit)
Prerequisite: teacher recommendation
Recommended Grade Level: 11th or 12th
Description: This is a full year, comprehensive course designed to prepare students for post-secondary education and the AP Literature Examination. The course will concentrate on the study of challenging works of recognized literary merit. Students will be expected to be engaged in both the critical reading as well as in carefully written and verbal analyses of the subject matter. Writing assignments include information, argumentative, and critical analysis. Students should develop a sense of how style, subject, and audience are related. Students will carefully scrutinize the effective use of language and the organization of ideas. Students will be expected to complete the AP Exam in May, which may result in college credit and/or exemption from beginning level college courses. Some literature units will include, Classical Literature, Romanticism, Short Stories, 20th Century Literature, and Poetry.
Prerequisite: teacher recommendation
Recommended Grade Level: 11th or 12th
Description: This is a full year, comprehensive course designed to prepare students for post-secondary education and the AP Literature Examination. The course will concentrate on the study of challenging works of recognized literary merit. Students will be expected to be engaged in both the critical reading as well as in carefully written and verbal analyses of the subject matter. Writing assignments include information, argumentative, and critical analysis. Students should develop a sense of how style, subject, and audience are related. Students will carefully scrutinize the effective use of language and the organization of ideas. Students will be expected to complete the AP Exam in May, which may result in college credit and/or exemption from beginning level college courses. Some literature units will include, Classical Literature, Romanticism, Short Stories, 20th Century Literature, and Poetry.
English 9: American Literature (2 Semesters, 1 credit)
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: 9th
Description: This is a full year course addressing a variety of genres, including personal narrative, drama, fiction, and non-fiction. Students will explore writing creative non-fiction, literary analysis, and informational and argumentative essays. Emphasis will be on the writing process, including pre-writing, drafting, revising, and editing. This includes a review of literary elements, writer’s craft, grammar and vocabulary. Mentor texts include: Romeo and Juliet, Of Mice and Men, To Kill a Mockingbird, Night, and a variety of short stories.
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: 9th
Description: This is a full year course addressing a variety of genres, including personal narrative, drama, fiction, and non-fiction. Students will explore writing creative non-fiction, literary analysis, and informational and argumentative essays. Emphasis will be on the writing process, including pre-writing, drafting, revising, and editing. This includes a review of literary elements, writer’s craft, grammar and vocabulary. Mentor texts include: Romeo and Juliet, Of Mice and Men, To Kill a Mockingbird, Night, and a variety of short stories.
English 9 Honors: American Literature (2 Semesters, 1 credit)
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: 9th
Description: This is a full year course designed for the more advanced English student, covering composition, literature, grammar, and vocabulary at the advanced level. Writing assignments stimulate critical thinking and foster self-expression. Students will be required to examine what works and what does not work in their writing. Literature study concentrates on comprehension, interpretation and appreciation as students move rapidly through a wide variety of distinguished literary pieces. Grammar study will review the eight parts of speech as well as move into an examination of the structure of sentences. A connection between grammar and writing will be made. Expectations for student performance are high, and the course of study is rigorous. Multiple assignments occur simultaneously. Time commitment is needed to successfully complete all course work. The following works are covered in the course: Romeo and Juliet, Of Mice and Men, To Kill a Mockingbird, Night, Poetry, and a variety of short stories.
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: 9th
Description: This is a full year course designed for the more advanced English student, covering composition, literature, grammar, and vocabulary at the advanced level. Writing assignments stimulate critical thinking and foster self-expression. Students will be required to examine what works and what does not work in their writing. Literature study concentrates on comprehension, interpretation and appreciation as students move rapidly through a wide variety of distinguished literary pieces. Grammar study will review the eight parts of speech as well as move into an examination of the structure of sentences. A connection between grammar and writing will be made. Expectations for student performance are high, and the course of study is rigorous. Multiple assignments occur simultaneously. Time commitment is needed to successfully complete all course work. The following works are covered in the course: Romeo and Juliet, Of Mice and Men, To Kill a Mockingbird, Night, Poetry, and a variety of short stories.
English 10 Honors (2 Semesters, 1 credit)
Prerequisite: teacher recommendation, English 9
Recommended Grade Level: 10th
Description: This is a full year course where students will pursue a rigorous curriculum reading a variety texts. Students will discuss the texts analytically and formulate ideas in their writing. Readings will include a mixture of non-fiction, fiction, short stories, drama, and poetry. Students will be able to read rapidly and accurately and write with minimal difficulty. Literary works include: Othello, Oedipus, Odyssey short stories, and many others.
Prerequisite: teacher recommendation, English 9
Recommended Grade Level: 10th
Description: This is a full year course where students will pursue a rigorous curriculum reading a variety texts. Students will discuss the texts analytically and formulate ideas in their writing. Readings will include a mixture of non-fiction, fiction, short stories, drama, and poetry. Students will be able to read rapidly and accurately and write with minimal difficulty. Literary works include: Othello, Oedipus, Odyssey short stories, and many others.
English 10 (2 Semesters, 1 credit)
Prerequisite: English 9
Recommended Grade Level: 10th
Description: This is a full year course where students will read and analyze a variety of literary works by a variety of authors, including the novel, short story, poetry, and drama. The composition portion of this class will present a sequential treatment of the writing process from prewriting to through revising. Instruction through the practical use of language, including vocabulary, grammar, and mechanics will be provided. Some of the literary works will be: Othello, Oedipus, Odyssey, Feed, short stories, poetry, and many others.
Prerequisite: English 9
Recommended Grade Level: 10th
Description: This is a full year course where students will read and analyze a variety of literary works by a variety of authors, including the novel, short story, poetry, and drama. The composition portion of this class will present a sequential treatment of the writing process from prewriting to through revising. Instruction through the practical use of language, including vocabulary, grammar, and mechanics will be provided. Some of the literary works will be: Othello, Oedipus, Odyssey, Feed, short stories, poetry, and many others.
English 11 Honors (2 Semesters, 1 credit)
Prerequisite: teacher recommendation, English 10 or English 10 Honors
Recommended Grade Level: 11th
Description: This is a full year course where students will learn to analyze and interpret samples of writing, exploring an author’s strategies and techniques; apply effective strategies and techniques in their own writing; create and sustain arguments based on readings and research; demonstrate understanding and mastery of the English language by employing appropriate conventions; and move efficiently through the writing process with careful attention to research, drafting, revising, editing, and review. Students will vigorously prepare for the SAT standardized assessment. Some literary works taught are: We the Living, Beowulf, The Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet, Frankenstein, poetry, drama, and many others.
Prerequisite: teacher recommendation, English 10 or English 10 Honors
Recommended Grade Level: 11th
Description: This is a full year course where students will learn to analyze and interpret samples of writing, exploring an author’s strategies and techniques; apply effective strategies and techniques in their own writing; create and sustain arguments based on readings and research; demonstrate understanding and mastery of the English language by employing appropriate conventions; and move efficiently through the writing process with careful attention to research, drafting, revising, editing, and review. Students will vigorously prepare for the SAT standardized assessment. Some literary works taught are: We the Living, Beowulf, The Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet, Frankenstein, poetry, drama, and many others.
English 11 (2 Semesters, 1 credit)
Prerequisite: English 10 or English 10 Honors
Recommended Grade Level: 11th
Description: This is a full year course where students will learn to write effective essays while exploring literature. The emphasis will be on writing a variety of essays (narrative, informational, argumentative, and literary) as well as on critical reading and analysis of literary works. The focus is on the purpose of writing, organization, sentence structure, and word choice. Some grammar, punctuation, and mechanics will be reviewed as needed. Students will vigorously prepare for the SAT standardized assessment. Some literary works will include: Beowulf, Frankenstein, The Kitchen House, short stories and many others.
Prerequisite: English 10 or English 10 Honors
Recommended Grade Level: 11th
Description: This is a full year course where students will learn to write effective essays while exploring literature. The emphasis will be on writing a variety of essays (narrative, informational, argumentative, and literary) as well as on critical reading and analysis of literary works. The focus is on the purpose of writing, organization, sentence structure, and word choice. Some grammar, punctuation, and mechanics will be reviewed as needed. Students will vigorously prepare for the SAT standardized assessment. Some literary works will include: Beowulf, Frankenstein, The Kitchen House, short stories and many others.
English 12 Honors (2 Semesters, 1 credit)
Prerequisite: English 11, English 11 Honors, Pre-AP English, or AP English Literature
Recommended Grade Level: 12th
Description: This is a full year course where students will be expected to engage in both critical reading and written and verbal analyses of the content. A variety of writing assignments will include, narrative, informational, argumentative, and critical analysis. There will be a careful scrutiny of the literature along with a very well-written essay on each. Some literary works include, The Great Gatsby, Macbeth, The Color of Water, They Poured Fire on Us from the Sky, A Million Little Pieces, The Narrative of Frederick Douglas, poetry, short stories and many others.
Prerequisite: English 11, English 11 Honors, Pre-AP English, or AP English Literature
Recommended Grade Level: 12th
Description: This is a full year course where students will be expected to engage in both critical reading and written and verbal analyses of the content. A variety of writing assignments will include, narrative, informational, argumentative, and critical analysis. There will be a careful scrutiny of the literature along with a very well-written essay on each. Some literary works include, The Great Gatsby, Macbeth, The Color of Water, They Poured Fire on Us from the Sky, A Million Little Pieces, The Narrative of Frederick Douglas, poetry, short stories and many others.
English 12 (2 Semesters, 1 credit)
Prerequisite: English 11, English 11 Honors, Pre-AP English, or AP English Literature
Recommended Grade Level: 12th
Description: This is a full year course preparing students for college. Students will read several genres and periods of literature. They will focus on a variety of essays, including argumentative and analytical. Students will focus on the prewriting process, including drafting, revising, editing, and review. Students will focus on employing appropriate conventions for a more dramatic product. Some literary works could include: Catcher in the Rye, The Great Gatsby, Their Eyes Were Watching God, Macbeth, The Joy Luck Club, poetry, and short stories.
Prerequisite: English 11, English 11 Honors, Pre-AP English, or AP English Literature
Recommended Grade Level: 12th
Description: This is a full year course preparing students for college. Students will read several genres and periods of literature. They will focus on a variety of essays, including argumentative and analytical. Students will focus on the prewriting process, including drafting, revising, editing, and review. Students will focus on employing appropriate conventions for a more dramatic product. Some literary works could include: Catcher in the Rye, The Great Gatsby, Their Eyes Were Watching God, Macbeth, The Joy Luck Club, poetry, and short stories.
Creative Writing (1 Semester, .5 credit)
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: all grades
Description: This is a one semester course that will help improve a student’s style and development through writing. Students will write various types of stories, descriptions, poems, and narratives. In addition, students will receive the works of famous authors. The goal is to encourage students to write and think creatively. This is a writing intensive course; thus students should expect daily writing assignments with a writing requirement of at least one page.
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: all grades
Description: This is a one semester course that will help improve a student’s style and development through writing. Students will write various types of stories, descriptions, poems, and narratives. In addition, students will receive the works of famous authors. The goal is to encourage students to write and think creatively. This is a writing intensive course; thus students should expect daily writing assignments with a writing requirement of at least one page.
Drama (1 Semester, .5 credit)
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: all grades
Description: The course will examine and analyze dramatic literature. The disposition for the Introduction to Drama is creativity. Students will do independent and group projects, reading, writing, and research. Students will use the writing process
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: all grades
Description: The course will examine and analyze dramatic literature. The disposition for the Introduction to Drama is creativity. Students will do independent and group projects, reading, writing, and research. Students will use the writing process
Myths, Legends, and Folklore (1 Semester, .5 credit)
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: all grades
Description: This is a semester course exploring various types of stories told by society throughout the ages. Discussions will focus on the unique features of each type of story and examining particular pieces. Students will develop strategies for building comprehension and writing skills, along with utilizing technology for the creation of projects.
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: all grades
Description: This is a semester course exploring various types of stories told by society throughout the ages. Discussions will focus on the unique features of each type of story and examining particular pieces. Students will develop strategies for building comprehension and writing skills, along with utilizing technology for the creation of projects.
Read 180 (1 Semester, .5 credit)
Prerequisite: teacher recommendation
Recommended Grade Level: 9th
Description: This is a semester course which is an individualized, research-based, reading intervention program used to increase a student’s reading level. It precisely targets areas that students need to improve, providing a multi-sensory approach. The goal of this program is to increase the students’ reading levels to their grade appropriate reading level.
Prerequisite: teacher recommendation
Recommended Grade Level: 9th
Description: This is a semester course which is an individualized, research-based, reading intervention program used to increase a student’s reading level. It precisely targets areas that students need to improve, providing a multi-sensory approach. The goal of this program is to increase the students’ reading levels to their grade appropriate reading level.
Young Adult Literature (1 Semester, .5 credit)
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: 10th to 12th
Description: This is a semester course focused on examining relevant issues teenagers face. This class builds on the students’ core English courses to help develop reading, writing, speaking, listening, and thinking skills. Students will engage in reader response criticism, close reading strategies, and discuss contemporary issues. Some literary works will include, A Child Called It, The Lost Boy, Tuesdays with Morrie, and many others.
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: 10th to 12th
Description: This is a semester course focused on examining relevant issues teenagers face. This class builds on the students’ core English courses to help develop reading, writing, speaking, listening, and thinking skills. Students will engage in reader response criticism, close reading strategies, and discuss contemporary issues. Some literary works will include, A Child Called It, The Lost Boy, Tuesdays with Morrie, and many others.
Pre-SAT (1 Semester, .5 credit)
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: 10th to 12th
Description: This course is based on preparing students for the PSAT and SAT standardized assessments and getting into college. The goal of this class is to provide strategies to help students while taking the PSAT and SAT.
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: 10th to 12th
Description: This course is based on preparing students for the PSAT and SAT standardized assessments and getting into college. The goal of this class is to provide strategies to help students while taking the PSAT and SAT.
Social Studies DepartmentContemporary Issues (1 Semester, .5 credit)
Prerequisite: none Recommended Grade Level: all grades Description: This course is designed to enable students to comprehend the most important political, economic, and social issues of our time. In the class, we will look at a wide range of topics that shape our world. Students will have the opportunity to discuss, understand, and explore local, national, and international issues in a respectful, meaningful, and active way. Living in an increasingly connected global community, we are obligated to have a solid understanding of these issues in order to make informed decisions for the future of humanity. So we will look at contemporary issues, but also trace their historical roots that have developed in the last century. In so doing, we will understand the causes of modern problems, and discuss possible solutions. This class is designed to make sure students leave high school as informed citizens and critical about the events happening around them. Students will walk away from the class with an appreciation for learning how global, national, and local events shape their lives and how they can use that knowledge for their benefit. |
World History (2 Semesters, 1 credit)
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: 10th
Description: World History is one of the required social studies courses by the State of Michigan for high school graduation. Failure to pass the class will prevent a student from graduating.
This course will cover the entire span of world history. We will look at the political, religious, social, and geographic forces that shape the way our world appears today. I would like us to make meaningful connections from the topics we study from the past to today. World History begins by studying Ancient Middle East and finishes with the region conflicts we see today. Students will walk away from the class with the general understanding of World History and an appreciation of how that knowledge connects one to the common human struggle that has existed since the beginning of time. The information presented and learned in this class will allow students to make higher quality, and more informed decisions that will cause world
history to progress to a better era.
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: 10th
Description: World History is one of the required social studies courses by the State of Michigan for high school graduation. Failure to pass the class will prevent a student from graduating.
This course will cover the entire span of world history. We will look at the political, religious, social, and geographic forces that shape the way our world appears today. I would like us to make meaningful connections from the topics we study from the past to today. World History begins by studying Ancient Middle East and finishes with the region conflicts we see today. Students will walk away from the class with the general understanding of World History and an appreciation of how that knowledge connects one to the common human struggle that has existed since the beginning of time. The information presented and learned in this class will allow students to make higher quality, and more informed decisions that will cause world
history to progress to a better era.
U.S. History (2 Semesters, 1 credit)
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: 9th
Description: This course has been designed to examine the history of the United States from 1870 to the present. We will explore the political, economic, demographic, social, and geographic influences that helped to shape the nation we live in today. We will strive to make connections between the past and the present on both domestic as well as international issues. Instruction will follow the guidelines of the Michigan Merit Curriculum, as well as the Common Core Curriculum, as mandated by the Michigan Department of Education. Students will be instructed following the guidelines of the ACT Reading Readiness Standards, as well. This is a powerful triple faceted approach to your education.
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: 9th
Description: This course has been designed to examine the history of the United States from 1870 to the present. We will explore the political, economic, demographic, social, and geographic influences that helped to shape the nation we live in today. We will strive to make connections between the past and the present on both domestic as well as international issues. Instruction will follow the guidelines of the Michigan Merit Curriculum, as well as the Common Core Curriculum, as mandated by the Michigan Department of Education. Students will be instructed following the guidelines of the ACT Reading Readiness Standards, as well. This is a powerful triple faceted approach to your education.
Music History (1 Semester, .5 credit)
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: all grades
Description: This course has been designed to expand knowledge and understanding of historical eras and events by connecting the arts with culture, history, and politics. It will help with understanding of the timeline and sequence of events in contemporary American history. Instruction will follow the guidelines of the Michigan Merit Curriculum, as well as the Common Core Curriculum, as mandated by the Michigan Department of Education. Students will be instructed following the guidelines of the ACT Reading Readiness Standards, as well. This is a
powerful triple faceted approach to your education.
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: all grades
Description: This course has been designed to expand knowledge and understanding of historical eras and events by connecting the arts with culture, history, and politics. It will help with understanding of the timeline and sequence of events in contemporary American history. Instruction will follow the guidelines of the Michigan Merit Curriculum, as well as the Common Core Curriculum, as mandated by the Michigan Department of Education. Students will be instructed following the guidelines of the ACT Reading Readiness Standards, as well. This is a
powerful triple faceted approach to your education.
Detroit Studies (1 Semester, .5 credit)
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: all grades
Description: The course will focus on the unique history of the City of Detroit and the city’s contribution towards the progressiveness of American history, politics, culture, art and industry. Through individual units, the course will explore the early beginnings of Old Detroit 1701, The Native American, French, Jesuit, influence; Detroit during the 1800’s and Governor Lewis Cass, All Roads Lead to the “Motor City”; Captains of Industry, The War Effort/ Post War Detroit, “That Unique Sound Motown Sound,” The Turbulent 60’s, Cultural Change, A Political
Change/Population Decline and The Future of Detroit: A New Beginning.
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: all grades
Description: The course will focus on the unique history of the City of Detroit and the city’s contribution towards the progressiveness of American history, politics, culture, art and industry. Through individual units, the course will explore the early beginnings of Old Detroit 1701, The Native American, French, Jesuit, influence; Detroit during the 1800’s and Governor Lewis Cass, All Roads Lead to the “Motor City”; Captains of Industry, The War Effort/ Post War Detroit, “That Unique Sound Motown Sound,” The Turbulent 60’s, Cultural Change, A Political
Change/Population Decline and The Future of Detroit: A New Beginning.
Economics (1 Semester, .5 credit)
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: all grades
Description: Over the course of this semester, we will explore how economies function and how to apply the concepts and principles of economies to our lives as individuals and as citizens. The economics content is important, relevant, and necessary for the understanding and the analysis of a wide variety of applications such as individual and household choices, personal finance issues, business and entrepreneurial decisions, and public policy. The four content areas we will focus on are: The Market Economy, The National Economy, The International Economy, and Personal Finance. At the end of this course, it is my sincere desire to see all of you develop into adults who will understand how these concepts can greatly impact your lives not only in the future, but also now in the present!
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: all grades
Description: Over the course of this semester, we will explore how economies function and how to apply the concepts and principles of economies to our lives as individuals and as citizens. The economics content is important, relevant, and necessary for the understanding and the analysis of a wide variety of applications such as individual and household choices, personal finance issues, business and entrepreneurial decisions, and public policy. The four content areas we will focus on are: The Market Economy, The National Economy, The International Economy, and Personal Finance. At the end of this course, it is my sincere desire to see all of you develop into adults who will understand how these concepts can greatly impact your lives not only in the future, but also now in the present!
AP Human Geography (2 Semesters, 1 credit)
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: 11th and 12th
Description: Human Geography can be defined simply as the study of human activities on the Earth’s Surface, where they are and why they are there. This includes institutions such as race, ethnicity, cities, governments, or even regions.
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: 11th and 12th
Description: Human Geography can be defined simply as the study of human activities on the Earth’s Surface, where they are and why they are there. This includes institutions such as race, ethnicity, cities, governments, or even regions.
AP Government (2 Semesters, 1 credit)
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: 11th and 12th
Description: Advanced Placement Government and Politics is an intensive study of the structures and processes of American government, with an emphasis on policymaking and policy implementation, interpretation, and enforcement. This is a rigorous, demanding college-level course designed to help students prepare for the AP Exam, think critically about the strengths and weaknesses of the American political system and current policy proposals, and develop an understanding of their rights, responsibilities, and opportunities for civic engagement in American society. We will analyze primary documents central to the founding of the United States of America as well as to the U.S. government we know today. Students will relate what they learn to current issues as well as to their own lives. All political opinions and points of view are welcome and encouraged. The curriculum for CCAHS AP Government is based on the Michigan High School Content Expectations for Civics, AP Course Audit, and Common Core Literacy Standards for Social Studies. Passing a civics or government course is required for graduation. Passing an AP Exam can result in earning college credit as explained below.
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: 11th and 12th
Description: Advanced Placement Government and Politics is an intensive study of the structures and processes of American government, with an emphasis on policymaking and policy implementation, interpretation, and enforcement. This is a rigorous, demanding college-level course designed to help students prepare for the AP Exam, think critically about the strengths and weaknesses of the American political system and current policy proposals, and develop an understanding of their rights, responsibilities, and opportunities for civic engagement in American society. We will analyze primary documents central to the founding of the United States of America as well as to the U.S. government we know today. Students will relate what they learn to current issues as well as to their own lives. All political opinions and points of view are welcome and encouraged. The curriculum for CCAHS AP Government is based on the Michigan High School Content Expectations for Civics, AP Course Audit, and Common Core Literacy Standards for Social Studies. Passing a civics or government course is required for graduation. Passing an AP Exam can result in earning college credit as explained below.
Government (1 Semester, .5 credit)
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: 11th
Description: This course addresses the structure and development of the United States as a constitutional government with an emphasis on democracy and equality, rights and responsibilities, and the broad spectrum of methods of political participation and engagement. We will analyze primary documents central to the founding of the United States of America as well as to the U.S. government we know today. Students will relate what they learn to current issues as well as to their own lives. All political opinions and points of view are welcome and encouraged. The curriculum for CCAHS Government is based on the Michigan High School Content Expectations for Civics and Common Core Literacy Standards for Social Studies. Passing this course is required for graduation.
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: 11th
Description: This course addresses the structure and development of the United States as a constitutional government with an emphasis on democracy and equality, rights and responsibilities, and the broad spectrum of methods of political participation and engagement. We will analyze primary documents central to the founding of the United States of America as well as to the U.S. government we know today. Students will relate what they learn to current issues as well as to their own lives. All political opinions and points of view are welcome and encouraged. The curriculum for CCAHS Government is based on the Michigan High School Content Expectations for Civics and Common Core Literacy Standards for Social Studies. Passing this course is required for graduation.
Honors Constitutional Studies (1 Semester, .5 credit)
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: 11th
Description: This is an advanced elective, ½ credit (one semester) course for students who have passed Government or Advanced Placement Government. Honors Constitutional Studies students will critically and analytically examine constitutional history, theory, and applications and will consider multiple perspectives while developing skills in teamwork, research, writing, and public speaking. A major component of the course involves preparation for simulated congressional hearings sponsored by the nationwide We the People program. This will culminate with the We the People State Competition held in January (tentatively, January 8, 2016) in Lansing, Michigan.
Hearing Description from Center for Civic Education’s Website: The Simulated Congressional Hearing provides students an opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of constitutional principles and ideas while providing teachers an excellent means of assessing student learning. The entire class, working in cooperative teams, prepares and presents four minute statements before a panel of community representatives acting as a congressional committee. Students then answer follow-up questions posed by the committee members.
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: 11th
Description: This is an advanced elective, ½ credit (one semester) course for students who have passed Government or Advanced Placement Government. Honors Constitutional Studies students will critically and analytically examine constitutional history, theory, and applications and will consider multiple perspectives while developing skills in teamwork, research, writing, and public speaking. A major component of the course involves preparation for simulated congressional hearings sponsored by the nationwide We the People program. This will culminate with the We the People State Competition held in January (tentatively, January 8, 2016) in Lansing, Michigan.
Hearing Description from Center for Civic Education’s Website: The Simulated Congressional Hearing provides students an opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of constitutional principles and ideas while providing teachers an excellent means of assessing student learning. The entire class, working in cooperative teams, prepares and presents four minute statements before a panel of community representatives acting as a congressional committee. Students then answer follow-up questions posed by the committee members.
Human Rights History (1 Semester, .5 credit)
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: all grades
Description: This course addresses human rights and how they have been viewed throughout history. This will begin with a study of what human rights are and how ideas about them have changed throughout history. We will analyze the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in depth and use the principles found there to assess different events in history, like the American Civil Rights Movement, and look at what recent events to determine if citizen’s human rights have been violated. All opinions and viewpoints are welcomed and encouraged in this class.
This class will include both brief and in-depth study of different human rights violations. While I will always warn you about the topic and seriousness of the topic for the day, it is important to know before you start the class that we will talk about a number of sensitive topics.
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: all grades
Description: This course addresses human rights and how they have been viewed throughout history. This will begin with a study of what human rights are and how ideas about them have changed throughout history. We will analyze the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in depth and use the principles found there to assess different events in history, like the American Civil Rights Movement, and look at what recent events to determine if citizen’s human rights have been violated. All opinions and viewpoints are welcomed and encouraged in this class.
This class will include both brief and in-depth study of different human rights violations. While I will always warn you about the topic and seriousness of the topic for the day, it is important to know before you start the class that we will talk about a number of sensitive topics.
Spanish I and II (2 Semesters, 1 credit)
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: all grades
Description: Spanish is a yearlong course. All four of the language competencies (speaking, listening, reading, and writing,) are addressed, and state curriculum guidelines are followed.
Daily activities include vocabulary review, conversation practice, listening to native speakers on audiotape and videos, reciting songs and poems, and cultural studies.
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: all grades
Description: Spanish is a yearlong course. All four of the language competencies (speaking, listening, reading, and writing,) are addressed, and state curriculum guidelines are followed.
Daily activities include vocabulary review, conversation practice, listening to native speakers on audiotape and videos, reciting songs and poems, and cultural studies.
Computer Applications (1 Semester, .5 credit)
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: all grades
Description: Computer Applications consists of learning power point presentation, word processing speed and accuracy, skill in the use of database and spreadsheet (Excel) applications, InfoPath/Publisher and the integration of all of these. This course also covers typing instruction that consists of typing lessons by using a program “Mavis 15” that helps the students in improving their typing skills and speed as well as using correct position of typing.
Word consists of practice in word processor in which we provide the students with the ability to use this program with almost all of the basic features (tables, font, pictures, clip art, spelling, shapes, etc.) Excel is another program used by this course. By teaching excel we provide the students with the ability to create documents with important information about statistics; they learn how to solve math problems by using functions, such as average (the mean), median, sum, subtraction, multiplication, division, frequency, ceiling, floor, maximum, minimum, etc, as well as the creation of graphs, relating to the math calculations. Power Point in Computer Applications we prepare the students to make class presentations by using power point. Students learn how to make presentation slides with interesting subtitles, descriptions and pictures. Students learn how to make transitions between slides as well as the use of animation in letters, and pictures. InfoPath/Publisher applications in which students will learn how to complete various academic and commercial forms or applications, such as job applications, resumes, service requests, invoices, webpages etc. Microsoft Access application in which students will be learning about database which is a collection of data (store, retrieve and manipulate information). Students will be learning how to also provide a visual interface for creating custom forms, tables, and SQL queries. Students will be entering any kind of data into an Access database using either visual forms or a basic spreadsheet interface. Java programming in Java students will learn more basic concepts in Java Programming; they will recognize functions, arrays, variables, classes, interfaces, loops, if statements, inheritance, recursion, etc. Students will run more Java programs with a higher level of difficulty by using more than one class and functions. Students will create pieces of Java code and verify their outputs. Students will learn the basic functionality of data structures, and the Big "O" notation, related with the algorithms.
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: all grades
Description: Computer Applications consists of learning power point presentation, word processing speed and accuracy, skill in the use of database and spreadsheet (Excel) applications, InfoPath/Publisher and the integration of all of these. This course also covers typing instruction that consists of typing lessons by using a program “Mavis 15” that helps the students in improving their typing skills and speed as well as using correct position of typing.
Word consists of practice in word processor in which we provide the students with the ability to use this program with almost all of the basic features (tables, font, pictures, clip art, spelling, shapes, etc.) Excel is another program used by this course. By teaching excel we provide the students with the ability to create documents with important information about statistics; they learn how to solve math problems by using functions, such as average (the mean), median, sum, subtraction, multiplication, division, frequency, ceiling, floor, maximum, minimum, etc, as well as the creation of graphs, relating to the math calculations. Power Point in Computer Applications we prepare the students to make class presentations by using power point. Students learn how to make presentation slides with interesting subtitles, descriptions and pictures. Students learn how to make transitions between slides as well as the use of animation in letters, and pictures. InfoPath/Publisher applications in which students will learn how to complete various academic and commercial forms or applications, such as job applications, resumes, service requests, invoices, webpages etc. Microsoft Access application in which students will be learning about database which is a collection of data (store, retrieve and manipulate information). Students will be learning how to also provide a visual interface for creating custom forms, tables, and SQL queries. Students will be entering any kind of data into an Access database using either visual forms or a basic spreadsheet interface. Java programming in Java students will learn more basic concepts in Java Programming; they will recognize functions, arrays, variables, classes, interfaces, loops, if statements, inheritance, recursion, etc. Students will run more Java programs with a higher level of difficulty by using more than one class and functions. Students will create pieces of Java code and verify their outputs. Students will learn the basic functionality of data structures, and the Big "O" notation, related with the algorithms.
Health (1 Semester, .5 credit)
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: all grades
Description:
Prerequisite: none
Recommended Grade Level: all grades
Description:
