Courses

Art

Art Technology

Grade:12 - 1 Semester, 1 Credit

Prerequisite: Any student having passed Art I or a junior or senior with no Art credit.

This course is designed to teach students a variety of art techniques as they apply to a wide range of advertising areas such as poster design, package design, layout, and logos. The student will study famous artists, the elements and principles of design with a particular emphasis on color and lettering styles. Through discussions and written assignments, students will apply their knowledge and experience to their own work. Students will use art technology to produce some of their work.

English 1

Grade:9 - 1 Semester, 1 Credit

Students will read and respond to at least four book-length texts (novels, plays) and a variety of other literature, including poetry, short stories, and films. Students will engage in a dynamic classroom environment, with an emphasis on interpretation, connection, and criticism, as well as the mechanics and function of the English language. Students will participate in several writing assignments, including persuasive essays, book reviews, and creative works. Students will utilize technology for writing, reading, responding, and researching.

Sample texts: Unit of classic science fiction, Of Mice and Men, The Old Man and the Sea, Romeo & Juliet, Fahrenheit 451, A Day No Pigs Would Die, The Friends, The Pearl

English 2

Grade:10 - 1 Semester, 1 Credit

Students will continue their work from English 1 by continuing to read and respond to at least four book-length texts (novels, plays) and a variety of other literature, including poetry, short stories, and films. Students will engage in a dynamic classroom environment, with an emphasis on interpretation, connection, and criticism, as well as the mechanics and function of the English language. Students will participate in several writing assignments, including persuasive essays, book reviews, and creative works. Students will utilize technology for writing, reading, responding, and researching.

Sample texts: To Kill a Mockingbird, Lord of the Flies, A Raisin in the Sun, Macbeth, Always Running, Down These Mean Streets

American Literature

Grade:11 - 1 Semester, 1 Credit

Students will engage in a college-preparatory survey of American Literature, from the colonization of America to the present day. Students will be exposed to a variety of literature from the wide patchwork of cultures that comprise our nation, in genres of all types, from essays, poems and short stories to novels and films. Students will learn the major themes and developments throughout the literature of America and will learn to view the works in their social and historical contexts. Writing proficiency will be maintained and improved through regular formal and informal writing assignments. Students will utilize technology for writing, reading, responding and researching.

Sample texts/authors: Emerson, Whitman, Wheatley, Walden, Little Women, The Catcher in the Rye, Native Son, Their Eyes Were Watching God, House on Mango Street

World Literature

Grade:12 - 1 Semester, 1 Credit

Students will be exposed to a wide variety of literature from several cultures and time periods throughout the world, from Ancient Greece to modern-day Africa. Students will study and analyze all these various types of literature and discuss the texts in the historical and social contexts in which they were created. Students will utilize technology for writing, reading, responding and researching. Included in this course is the completion of their college essay, as well as periodic classes where students will become actively involved in the college application process and the completion of their college essay.

Sample texts: Antigone (Greece), Hamlet, Pride & Prejudice, Return of the Native, 1984 (England), Cracking India (India/Pakistan), Things Fall Apart, Cry the Beloved Country, Nervous Conditions (Africa), Don Quixote (Spain), short stories and poetry from South America and Asia

Reading 1

Grade:9 - 1 Semester, 1 Credit

Students will participate in a skills-based reading course to help improve reading, mechanics, and grammar skills in preparation for the rigors of the Pathways English program. Students will participate in on-grade-level vocabulary, spelling & grammar instruction as well as skills-based direct reading instruction. An emphasis will be placed on self-selected reading and developing good reading habits.

Film Study

Grade:12 - 1 Semester, 1 Credit

In this course students will earn the history of the motion picture, investigate the development of the medium of film, analyze director's options and choices, examine the creation of meaning I film, observe e the effect of film on the viewer, and make a film. This course will entail viewing film clips and complete films. Students will watch for various elements and analyze the film for these elements. Students will do much writing and discussing to enhance understanding and interpretation of the films and their purpose. By the end of this course, students should be well versed in visual interpretation of film.

Senior Workshop

Grade:12 - 1 Semester, 1 Credit

Elective

In this course students delve deeply into the analysis of nonfiction reading, including such aspects as author bias, fact versus opinion, persuasive and propaganda devices, intended audience, and purpose. Students will read, write, and discuss many types of nonfiction writing—focusing on process, content, grammar and mechanics to become more proficient and independent writers. In addition, students will analyze their own individual learning styles and develop strategies to improve study habits and skills. Students will also work toward developing their own generated assessments, projects, and presentations to check themselves for understanding and growth.

SAT Prep

Grade:11 - 1 Semester, 1 Credit

Mandated elective course for Juniors.

This required course is designed to orient students to the SAT and the college process. Students will gain a broad range of verbal skills, math skills, and test taking strategies in order to become more familiar with and succeed in taking the SAT. Topics will also include the college selection process, college applications, the college essay, and the financial aid process and procedures.

Mathematics

Algebra 1

Grade:9 - 1 Semester, 1 Credit

Course topics include using integers, the coordinate plane, solving linear equations, proportions and percents including percent increase and describe multiple representations of linear functions, probability and statistics, exponents and polynomials, systems of equations, quadratic equations, factoring, irrational numbers and radical expressions. The course is aligned with the Algebraic Reasoning Strand of the Connecticut Frameworks, with review of the other three strands, to prepare students for success on the CAPT.

Geometry

Grade:10 - 1 Semester, 1 Credit

Students will use inductive reasoning to identify patterns, make conjectures about real world situations and apply deductive reasoning to confirm their conjectures. Algebraic and geometric models are used and connected to topics in discrete mathematics. The use of computer technology enhances understanding and continues the development of a comprehensive and rigorous foundation in pre-collegiate level mathematics. The course is aligned with the Geometry Strand of the Connecticut Frameworks, with review of the other three strands, to prepare students for success on the CAPT.

Algebra 2

Grade:11-12 - 1 Semester, 1 Credit

Students will build on the sequential and spiraling approaches to content and skills from their preceding courses. Topics addressed include modeling and predicting polynomials, functions, systems of equations, sequences and series, analytic geometry and trigonometric equations. The use of graphing calculators continues to be an integral part of the curriculum. The course focuses on the mathematics placement criteria used at local universities and on the mathematics sections of the SAT.

Pre Calculus

Grade:11-12 - 1 Semester, 1 Credit

Pre-Calculus topics include functions and their graphs, polynomial and rational functions, analytic geometry, trigonometry and probability. The use of graphing calculators is incorporate throughout the course to prepare students for calculus and other advanced mathematics. A balance of algebraic, graphical, numerical, and verbal methods is used to reinforce comprehension, problem solving and critical thinking skills. The course focuses on the mathematics placement criteria used at local universities and on the mathematics section of the SAT.

Calculus

Grade:12 - 1 Semester, 1 Credit

This course includes topics such as functions and models, limits and rates of change, derivatives and applications of differentiation, integrals and applications of integration, differential equations, and vector calculus. Real world data and problems enhance application thinking and the meaningful use of technology. Students will be prepared to take the AP Calculus exam.

Mathematics Review and Enrichment

Grade:9-10 - 1 Semester, 1 Credit

This is a required course for all students in the 9th grade who score at below grade level on the Pathways Mathematics Placement test. The purpose of this course is to prepare students for the Mathematics CAPT as well as to address the needs of students to develop good work and study habits and to develop good problem-solving and critical thinking skills. This course cannot be applied toward a required Math credit.

Health

Grade:9 - 12 - .5 Semester, .5 Credit

All students are required to take and pass one half credit of health education. In Health education students will establish and maintain healthy active lifestyles that avoid risk taking activities (behaviors). The student will know and be able to apply accurate information about their physical, mental, emotional, and social growth, and development, including human sexuality. The course covers topics in mental health, substance abuse, human immune-deficiency (HIV) infection and other sexually transmitted diseases; violence prevention, personal safety and conflict resolution; family life including sex education with an emphasis on postponing sexual involvement.

 

Physical Education

Physical Education 1

Grade:9 - 12 - .5 Semester, .5 Credit

In Physical Education 1 students will acquire movement skills from an introduction to a wide variety of games and activities. The student will understand concepts needed to engage in sports and reach a personal health enhancing fitness level. In Physical Education 1 students will exhibit responsible personal, social behaviors, with an understanding of individual differences. The course will cover a wide variety of sports, fitness; integrate technology in the curriculum, cooperative activities, and designing a personalized work out plan.

Physical Education 2

Grade:9 - 12 - .5 Semester, .5 Credit

The course focuses upon advanced knowledge of fitness and application to personal fitness performance. Students will demonstrate an understanding of the fitness components and apply them to construction of healthy lifestyles through goal setting activities. The students will produce a personal fitness portfolio, which includes participation requirements to meet personal fitness goals, and the activities that can be pursued in the local community for health/fitness.

Science

Physical Science

Grade:9 - 1 Semester, 1 Credit

The physical science course is designed to allow students to learn in a hands-on educational environment. Topics of exploration include: Force and Motion; Energy and energy Sources; Atomic Structure and Chemical compounds; and Properties of Matter. Each topic is supplemented with lab investigations and computer simulations.

Environmental Science

Grade:9-12 - 1 Semester, 1 Credit

This is a comprehensive course covering the basic principles of ecology. Emphasis is placed on the impact of human activities on our environment. Topics include Biomes, Matter and Energy Interactions in the Ecosystems, Resources in the Biosphere, and Managing Human Impact on our Environment. The course includes extensive alternative energy investigations using hydrogen fuel cells, solar energy and photovoltaic cells, and a wind turbine.

Biology A

Grade:10 - 1 Semester, 1 Credit

An introductory Biology course designed to acquaint the student with the biological principles which govern living things, and become better equipped to make logical decisions when presented with the biological problems of every life. An in depth treatment of the following topics is presented: The Scientific Method and use of Technology, The Chemical Basis of Life, The Organization of Living Things, The Diversity of Life, Genetics, Body Systems, Ecology Evolution.

Chemistry A

Grade:11-12 - 1 Semester, 1 Credit

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra I

An introductory chemistry course that integrates experimentation with extensive class discussion. The language of mathematics is employed often when investigating the concepts presented in this course. An in depth treatment of the following topics is presented: The Scientific Method, Measurement, Atomic Structure, Periodic Table, Formulas, Stoichiometry, Bonding, Molecular Geometry, Phases of Matter, Gas Laws, Solutions, Chemical Equilibrium, Acids and Bases, Oxidation-Reduction, Chemical Kinetics, and Thermodynamics.

Biotechnology

Grade:11-12 - 1 Semester, 1 Credit

Biotechnology is a science about using living organisms to solve problems and create products that benefit society and the earth. Together with the science of genomics, biotechnology has revolutionized the field of medicine. This course explores the history of biotechnology and genomics along with the necessary content background in molecular biology. Embedded in the curriculum is the examination of ethical issues and bioethical questions that are often raised about the products, techniques, and research surrounding Biotechnology. Included in this course is exposure to careers in the various fields related to the Biotech Industry. Students will also learn the laboratory techniques necessary for genetic engineering while using state of the art lab equipment and technology.

Forensic Science

Grade:11-12 - 1 Semester, 1 Credit

Prerequisite: B or better in Biotechnology

Forensic science presents itself as a natural vehicle for students to practice science as inquiry. For every piece of physical evidence brought in for analysis, the student must apply the scientific method for positive identification.

DNA fingerprinting and other forensic tools found in Biotechnology have changed the way we solve crimes and prosecute criminals. The science behind DNA identification will be studied along with its advantages and ethical concerns. Students will gain a basic understanding of the legal system and criminal law and apply it to some historical crime cases. Students will also learn how to use state of the art lab equipment and technology to perform DNA fingerprinting.

Social Studies

World History

Grade:9 - 1 Semester, 1 Credit

World History is an introduction to the major historical periods, concepts issues and patterns in world history. This course will take students on a journey through global history making connections to today along the way. Throughout the year, historical content and skills will be bridged by themes connecting and integrating the world's diverse history. Political, economic, social and religious concepts will be explored. Geographic themes and skills and their connections to world history will be emphasized.

Civics

Grade:10 - .5 Semester, .5 Credit

Civics provides the foundation for students' active and informed participation in our society, and for understanding the interaction between the ideals, principles and practices of citizenship. This course examines the structure of the United States Constitution and the Bill of Rights, with a focus on the role and structure of the three branches of government, types of political systems, the electoral process and the role of government in our society.

Foundations of American History

Grade:10 - .5 Semester, .5 Credit

This course is paired with Civics

This course provides the basis for student understanding of the roots of United States History. Students investigate the story of the American continent from its early history to its formation and struggles as a young nation. Investigation of the 19th century will provide focus for this course. Historical thinking skills will be integrated with the study of historical periods, themes, issues and patterns.

American History

Grade:11-12 - 1 Semester, 1 Credit

Required for all 11th grade students. This course is required by the State of Connecticut for graduation. Must be taken successfully to graduate.

This course investigates the forces that shape the political, social and economic institutions of the modern American. An in-depth exploration of the United States in the 20th century and today, including contemporary issues and the place of the United States in the global world, will provide the framework for study. The continued development of historical themes, including the meaning of freedom, and of historical thinking skills will be a focus of this course.

Psychology

Grade:12 - .5 Semester, .5 Credit

The introductory course in Psychology introduces students to the scientific study of the behavior and mental processes of human beings. Students study the knowledge and theory associated with the study of the human behavior, learning, and the human mind, as well as the methods psychologists use in their science and practice. This course is paired with Sociology.

Sociology

Grade:12 - .5 Semester, .5 Credit

This introductory course in Sociology introduces students to the scientific study of our complex society. Concepts include: culture, socialization, social interaction, social groups and institutions, and social change. The focus of this study will be the application of these sociological concepts and social research methods to the exploration of social issues. This course is paired with Psychology.

Technology

Principles of Information Technology

Grade: 9 - 1 trimester, 1/2 credit

Principles of Information Technology provides students with an introduction to hardware, looking at both peripherals and inside the box. Then, with a hands-on orientation, students explore the most common types of operating systems, software applications, and programming languages. Students learn about the different types of networks and network topology, and set up an email client/server connection. During the course, students consider contemporary IT issues such as security and privacy, the effects of IT on society and on the individual, and technological inequality. Finally, students get a chance to discover the types of careers that exist in IT today. Upon completion of the course, students will be well versed in the basics of all aspects of IT, and will understand how computers are designed and assembled to help users achieve their desired goals.

MOS Certification

Grade: 9 - 1 trimester, 1/2 credit

This course is a globally recognized standard for demonstrating technical proficiency and expertise in the Microsoft Office suite of productivity applications. Students can prepare for the MOS Master certification or simply garner fundamental and advanced skills with any of these Microsoft productivity applications: Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access, Outlook. MOS certification is based on successfully passing exams in Microsoft Office.

 

Digital Video and Media

Grade: 10 - 2 trimesters, 1 credit

Digital Video and Digital Media guides students through all phases of digital video production, including pre-production and planning, executing and managing a video shoot, and techniques of editing and post-production. Students explore methods of sharing and broadcasting digital videos, including multiple platform versions, CDs and DVDs, and web delivery. They also learn about the latest methods of spreading the word about a digital video, including methods of using online search engines to lead viewers to the production. Finally, students have a chance to discover the types of careers that exist in digital media and design today.

Web Design

Grade: 10, 1 trimester, 1/2 credit

The course begins with a study of how the web works and its evolution. Students learn about web development including HTML coding, usability, design, and web-based publishing tools. Next, students gather and prepare web content. Students assess and use various development and design tools and techniques. After conducting usability testing, students launch their websites, troubleshoot, and plan how to attract traffic. Finally, students get a chance to discover what types of web design careers exist today.

Introduction to Computer Networking

Grade: 11, 12 - 1 trimester, 1/2 credit

Computer Networking guides students through all phases of implementing and troubleshooting common TCP/IP Ethernet networks using readily available commodity network hardware connected with CAT5/6 cable. It covers network components, cables, and connectors. The course walks students through network standards, protocols, and topologies. It guides students through implementing and troubleshooting a LAN, as well as discussing access issues for WANs. The course also includes a brief history of networks. Finally, students get a chance to discover what types of network-related careers exist today.

Personal Finance

Grade: 11, 12 - 2 trimesters, 1 credit

This course is designed to teach basic Personal Finance skills. Topics covered in this course are Insurance, Banking, Communication and Ethics, writing skills and critical thinking. The goal of this course is to give students the basic skills necessary to be successful in their personal life and in the world of work. Students participating in this course will be expected to meet the Communication and Ethic standards of the real world of work.

Computer Networking (CCNA)

Grade: 11, 12 - 2 trimesters, 1 credit

The Cisco CCNA Exploration curriculum provides a comprehensive overview of networking; from fundamentals to advanced applications and services. It is based on a top-down approach to networking that is popular in many colleges and universities. This course emphasizes theoretical concepts and practical application, while providing opportunities for students to gain the skills and hands-on experience needed to design, install, operate, and maintain networks in small-to-medium businesses, as well as enterprise and service provider environments.

CCNA Exploration offers in-depth theory, challenging labs, and a detailed overview of protocol operations. It is designed for students with advanced problem-solving and analytical skills, such as degree candidates in engineering, math, or science, or for working professionals who would like to advance their careers or gain certification. CCNA Exploration was designed to be integrated into technology curricula or continuing education programs at postsecondary institutions such as technical schools, colleges, and universities.

 

IT Leadership

Grade: 11, 12 - 2 trimesters, 1 credit

This course is designed to develop student academic, engineering and problem solving skills through the completion of a comprehensive IT Research and Design (R&D) project. Students will act as a member of a design team and utilize a variety of communication technologies and multimedia software to research, design, develop and present a viable solution to a comprehensive challenge. Students form a “mock” technology company and assume roles in a company to complete activities needed to develop a solution. Patent research and intellectual property management are integral components on the R&D project.

 

Entrepreneurship & Small Business Management

Grade: 11, 12 - 1 trimester, 1/2 credit

This course covers essential business and entrepreneurship concepts about how to start and run a small business enterprise. In collaboration with the National Foundation for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE), students are given $50 to start a business. Students in this class learn by doing. Activities include: writing and presenting a complete business plan, purchasing and selling goods, producing a small business computer simulation and undertaking an actual small business ownership. In addition, students study economics, social studies and entrepreneurship.

 

Programming

Grade: 11 - 2 trimesters, 1 credit

In this course students will learn the elementary principles of computer programming while creating three-dimensional animated worlds in the Alice programming environment. Some of the topics we will cover include simple data types, control structures; an introduction to array and string data structures and algorithms; recursion; event driven-programming; multimedia and simple animation; basic software development and modularity.

 

Sound Production

Grade: 12 - 1 trimester, 1/2 credit

Students in this course study all things audio: podcasts, soundtracks, jingles, voice-overs, narratives and music composition. Working in the Garage Band environment, major areas of focus will include mixing vocals with instrumentation, creating sound effects, utilizing proper miking techniques and preparing appropriate content for a listening-only audience.

eCommerce

Grade: 12 - 2 trimesters, 1 credit

Through this course, students develop an online presence for new businesses. Students learn the skill-sets required to start a small business and are taught the technology to support its growth.

World Languages

NOTE: Spanish 1-3 are intended for new language speakers

Spanish 1

Grade:10-11 - 1 Semester, 1 Credit

This is an introductory course in which students will learn the sounds and symbols of the new language and begin developing all four basic skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing. The course stresses vocabulary acquisition and usage, sentence structure, and basic grammatical principles. Since the objective of the course is to develop the student's ability to communicate in the new language, class time is developed largely to the development of listening and speaking skills. All students will be required to listen, imitate, and to actively participate in all kinds of aural and oral drills. As the course progresses, they will also be required to do simple reading and writing exercises in the target language. In addition, the students in this course will have the opportunity to learn about the customs, idiosyncrasy, the cultural practices and expressions of the people whose language they are studying. Although the use of some English may be necessary in some occasions, teachers will strive to conduct classes, in the target language as much as possible. Participation in all class activities and exercises is absolutely essential and expected of all students. Homework will be assigned on a daily basis to reinforce all concepts studied in class and to provide additional opportunities for students to practice.

Spanish 2

Grade:11-12 - 1 Semester, 1 Credit

This course is a continuation of level I. In this course, students will review all basic concepts studied in level l and continue to further the development of the four basic skills, listening peaking, reading, and writing. After the review, youngsters will go on studying the basic grammatical principles of the target language, the formation and use of different tenses, and enhancing their vocabulary base. The approach used is similar to that of the first year level. The emphasis continues to be on developing the ability to listen and communicate in the new language, but reading comprehension and writing skills are also stressed. The students will gain knowledge and understanding of the psychology and all cultural aspects of the people who language they are studying. Classes are conducted in the target language except for those situations in which the teacher considers the use of English absolutely necessary. Participation in all class activities and exercises is absolutely essential and expected of all students. Homework will be assigned on a daily basis to reinforce all concepts studied in class and to provide additional opportunities for students to practice.

Spanish 3

Grade:11-12 - 1 Semester, 1 Credit

This course is a continuation of Level II, and it is designed for those individuals who are seriously interested in language studies. It provides students with the opportunity to continue expanding their knowledge of the language and their ability to communicate in it both orally and in writing. In this course, pupils will review and practice concepts studies in the second year level and move on to more complex grammatical principles and verb tenses. The students will work on the acquisition and use of vocabulary, and will be constantly challenged to express themselves in the target language through oral discussions, readings and writing exercises. Classes are conducted entirely in the target language. Participation in all class activities and exercises is absolutely essential and expected of all students. Homework will be assigned on a daily basis to reinforce all concepts studied in class and to provide additional opportunities for students to practice.

NOTE: Español 1-3 are intended for native language speakers

Español 1

Grade:10-11 - 1 Semester, 1 Credit

This course is specially designed for those students who are already literate in Spanish. It will expand their knowledge of the language and the Hispanic literature as well as their verbal, reading and writing skills. As part of this course, students will begin reviewing all important grammatical principles of the language, read and discuss a wide selection of literary works, which include novels, dramas, poetry, short stories and essays. Emphasis will be placed on vocabulary acquisition and usage and on the improvement of reading and writing skills. Classes are conducted entirely in Spanish. Participation in all class activities and exercise is absolutely essential and expected of all students. Homework will be assigned on a daily basis to reinforce all concepts studied in class and to provide additional opportunities for students to practice.

Español 2

Grade:11-12 - 1 Semester, 1 Credit

This course is a continuation of Español 1. As such, it continues the work begun in the first year level, placing special emphasis on vocabulary acquisition, the enhancement of general knowledge of the language, familiarization wit the Hispanic culture and literature, and on the improvement of reading comprehension and writing skills. Several literary works representing different genres and authors from Spain and Spanish-America will be read, analyzed and discussed in class. Students will be expected to do additional reading and writing exercises as well as oral presentations. Classes are conducted entirely in Spanish. Participation in all class activities and exercises is absolutely essential and expected of all students. Homework will be assigned on a daily basis to reinforce all concepts studied in class and to provide additional opportunities for students to practice.

Español 3

Grade:11-12 - 1 Semester, 1 Credit

This course is a continuation of Español 2, and as such, it continues to emphasize the development of reading comprehension, writing and communication skills in general through compositions, written and oral reports. It also resumes and takes a step further the process of familiarizing the student with their Hispanic culture and literature by introducing them to the most important aspects of our literary history and by reading and discussing the works of important Hispanic writers from both continents. Using some of the works read and discussed in class, or others assigned by the teacher, students will have the opportunity to learn and practice the skill of making literary analyses and preparing research papers. Classes are conducted entirely in Spanish. Participation in all class activities and exercise is absolutely essential and expected of all students. Homework will be assigned on a daily basis to reinforce all concepts studied in class and to provide additional opportunities for students to practice.