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College Credit Courses |
| Please note: All courses may be taken subject to academic achievement and faculty approval. |
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| AP United States History |
| AP United States History is a full-year introductory college course in United States history from the first European explorations of the Americas to the present. Students learn to assess historical materials and to weigh the evidence and interpretations presented in historical scholarship. Students develop the skills necessary to arrive at conclusions on the basis of an informed judgment and to present reasons and evidence clearly and persuasively in essay format. The AP examination covers political institutions and behavior, public policy, social and economic change, diplomacy and international relation, and cultural and intellectual developments. |
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AP Biology |
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This course is offered to a serious science student who is interested in pursuing a college major in biological science and has exhibited strong science skills necessary to analyze data critically and arrive at meaningful conclusions. Topics covered include cell theory, energy of life, genetics, plant biology, human systems, and ecology. Laboratory activities enhance student critical thinking and documentation of conclusions. |
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AP Chemistry |
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This course is offered to a serious science student who is interested in pursuing a college major in chemistry or a science-related career. The course begins with a review of basic concepts and advances to a broad range of topics including electrochemistry, thermodynamics, quantum mechanics and radioactivity. Problem-solving activities in the laboratory figure significantly in the course curriculum. |
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AP Calculus |
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The most advanced of our math courses allows a student to earn college credits. Methods of differential and integral calculus are covered along with their applications. Topics covered included the calculus of parametric, polar, and vector valued functions. |
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AP Government and Political Science |
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This college level course in U.S. government and politics includes the study of general concepts used to interpret U.S. politics and the analysis of specific systems. The AP exam covers the constitutional underpinnings of democracy, political beliefs and behaviors, political parties and interest groups, the branches of government, institutions and policy processes, and civil rights and liberties. |
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AP Psychology |
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This college level course is an introduction to the study of psychology. Areas studied include topics such as stages in human development, theories of personality, development of self-esteem, altered states of awareness, dreams, emotions and other basic concepts which explore and explain the human experience. The course is designed to increase understanding of human behavior. |
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Advanced English |
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The advanced college level English program follows a rigorous syllabus that is challenging and stimulating to the student. This program allows students to study British literature in greater depth and detail. The students must assume the responsibility of reasoning, analyzing, and understanding the prose, poetry, and drama presented during the course. |
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Advanced Economics |
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This six credit course covers fundamentals of macroeconomics and microeconomics, focusing on economic systems, measurement of economic performance, macroeconomic theory and policy, the international economy, models of consumer choice, firm production, costs and revenues, product pricing, factor markets, and the role of government. A field trip to the stock market and the Federal Reserve augments the classroom instruction. |
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Advanced Jewish History |
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This course encompasses modern Jewish history, starting from the 1770’s until the present time. Students examine world events, secular politics, and social and economic changes that impacted the Jewish world. Special emphasis will be placed on the new ideologies that penetrated Jewish life and the varied reactions toward them. Enlightenment, emancipation, migration, Zionism, socialism, communism, as well as anti-Semitism are the passwords which will drive our discussions. The Holocaust, the formation of Israel as a modern state, and the Jews in world politics today are especially relevant topics. Leading figures will be examined; theories will be evaluated so that the students will have a clear understanding of their Jewish past and its ramification on the future. |
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English Language Arts |
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- Developing critical reading skills through exposure and analysis of good writing by famous authors,
stimulating a life-long love and appreciation of great literature
- Refining writing skills with emphasis on compositional organization, editing, and utilization of mechanics of conventional English
- Enriching and expanding vocabulary which will allow students to express themselves with increased
articulation
in written and oral communication
- Developing research skills using both traditional library skills and the internet
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World Literature I |
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Students read a variety of literary selections ranging from short stories to novels, poems, plays and non-fiction. The course focuses students’ attention on the forms of literature and on the requirements of sound composition, organization and development. Extensive work in composition helps students organize their ideas and communicate effectively.
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World Literature II |
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This course is an extension of World Literature I. Students refine and expand their proficiency in the multiple components of reading comprehension while honing their oral and written communication skills. |
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American Literature |
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This course shifts its focus from a broad exposure of world authors to an in-depth study of American authors, both early and contemporary. Instruction follows a thematic approach, linking American literature to previously studied world authors. Through an analysis of good writing, students further their own writing skills and develop their own voice. |
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English Literature |
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This course, the last in a four year cycle of literature, exposes students to an eclectic range of British authors, their styles and their contribution to the development of the different genre of writing. The level of instruction advances incrementally through all grades in analysis, critical thought and written expression. |
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Public Speaking |
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This elective course is designed to help students become more confident speakers. Students learn to express themselves through original poems, short stories and essays drawn from their own experience, and also by exposure to literary models by well known public speakers. Students critique each others’ efforts to gain insights into their own expression. |
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Senior Journalism Workshop |
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This course introduces the students to the basics of journalism. They receive instruction in writing fundamentals such as news, features, editorials, editing and headline writing. They also receive training in copy reading, page layout and printing. This course serves to aid the seniors in publishing their yearbook. |
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Mathematics |
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- Developing the ability to approach and solve mathematical problems with understanding and confidence
- Mastering mathematical concepts and abstract reasoning as critical components in mastering higher math and science courses
- Providing students with the background necessary for success in higher math and science courses
Our full range of courses was designed to accommodate the varied levels of our students. |
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Algebra I |
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Algebra is a language used to express mathematical relationships. Students will learn to think concisely and analytically about mathematical properties and their connections. Topics covered include an understanding of the real number system, linear, quadratic and other functions and systems of equations. Students will learn how algebra concisely expresses the relationship between quantities. |
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Geometry |
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This course covers methods and properties of two and three-dimensional Euclidean geometry using a variety of strategies to aid students’ understanding of geometric theorems, patterns and relationships. Strong emphasis is placed on abstract thinking and the method of formal proof. |
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Algebra II and Trigonometry |
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This course is an extension of Algebra I, with stress on solving equations, understanding elementary functions and of mastering the structure of the real number system. Heavy emphasis is placed on independent problem solving. The use of graphing calculators plays an important part in providing a visual dimension to student understanding of topics covered. |
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Pre calculus |
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This course is an extension of all algebraic concepts and functions covered previously with special emphasis on trigonometry. Students will be prepared to advance to college math at the conclusion of this course. Topics include linear, quadratic, polynomial exponential, logarithmic and rational functions. Methodology stresses problem solving, applications and use of graphing calculators.
AP Calculus
See college course description. |
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Business Math |
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Students interested in business-related careers and consumer applications will find this course useful. Topics will include the mathematics of business operations and record keeping, banking, purchasing, and sales. Situations involving discounts, commissions, interest, taxes, and depreciation will be studied. Topics also include consumer application. Business Mathematics will allow the student to learn business and consumer concepts they will use throughout their lives. The student will be involved in learning how to communicate information mathematically, solve problems for a real-world context and justify the solutions to problems. |
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Science |
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- Achieving scientific literacy in the basic disciplines
- Stimulating students’ excitement for scientific inquiry through hands-on experimentation, observation and notation
- Instilling an appreciation of the structure of the world in which we live
- Providing a strong foundation for students who wish to pursue a career in a science related field
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Biology |
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This one-year course introduces students to broad aspects of the biological sciences, such as the molecular and cellular basis of life, genetics, human systems and the interrelationships of plants, animals and humans with the environment. Students experience a variety of learning strategies, including cooperative group interaction, lecture, discussion, demonstration and laboratory experimentation. As part of their lab studies, students will develop the technique of scientific inquiry and notation in the science lab. |
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Anatomy and Physiology |
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This two semester course deals with the structure and function of the human body and mechanisms for maintaining homeostasis. The study of cells, tissues, and integument, skeletal, muscular and nervous systems are included. Weekly labs complement and enrich the academic experience. |
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Chemistry |
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The chemistry course provides a comprehensive study of the basic concepts of chemistry. It includes the study of the structure of the atom, the dynamics of chemical reactions, the various phases of matter, and the rudiments of electrochemistry. Numerous laboratory sessions are provided to enhance understanding of chemical concepts and theory. Critical analysis of data and problem solving are stressed throughout. This course stresses the relevance of science and chemistry for our future; it is designed to awaken student interest in the pursuit of higher levels of science. |
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Earth/Environmental Science |
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This timely program presents scientific concepts in relation to relevant issues. Topics include earth and space exploration, energy sources, pollution, biotechnology and environmental issues. Students learn to understand the interrelationships of forces in the world around them, past, present and future. |
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Nutritional Science |
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This elective course is designed to familiarize our students with the rudiments of nutritional science, covering topics such as food choices and human health, nutrition tools, energy balance and healthy body weight, physical activity, diet and health, lifecycle nutrition, and food safety and technology. The course includes a strong practical application component and culminates in the production of a healthy cookbook. |
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Physics |
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This course provides a comprehensive study of the basic concepts of physical science. Numerous laboratory experiments enhance student understanding of the basic physical concepts which govern the physical universe. Among topics to be covered are mechanics and concepts of astronomy, the basic laws of electrostatics, direct current and magnetism. Hands-on analysis of motions, vectors and force provides the student with critical thinking activities geared toward the solution of rudimentary physics problems. Instruction is reinforced by relevant field trips.
AP Biology
See college course description.
AP Chemistry
See college course description. |
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Social Science |
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- Developing an understanding of the history of civilization and of the great ideas in economics, politics and culture from early to modern times
- Understanding and appreciating how history impacts on the world we live in today
- Analyzing primary sources to enhance student ability to understand how societies change
- Imparting an appreciation of good citizenship as an expression of the value and importance of informed opinion
- Increasing the understanding of human behavior
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World History |
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This course offers an overview of the history of civilizations and societies from ancient to modern times. Topics covered include an analysis of the contributions and outcomes of Greek and Roman civilizations, Feudalism, the Italian Renaissance, the Age of Revolutions, the rise of nationalism and expansionism as they impact on modern times. |
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American History I |
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This course traces the growth of colonial America into a dynamic, expansionist country driven by the concept of Manifest Destiny. Students will learn to understand and appreciate American democracy and government through a careful study of primary documents, which shape our thinking. |
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American History II |
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This course focuses on post Civil War development of the United States into a world power throughout the 20th and into the 21st century. Key units include American world expansionism, involvement in World Wars I and II, Korea, Vietnam, the Persian Gulf and, most recently, Iraq. Social issues such as desegregation, the Civil Rights movement, the space race, Watergate and the end of the Cold War will be addressed. Students will study original historical documents to understand how they shaped American thinking. |
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Law |
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This course will be devoted to the study of both criminal and civil law. Students will read actual criminal case law, create a civil lawsuit based on a nursery rhyme or fairy tale, and will understand the rights given to Americans in the Bill of Rights. Students will study the first, fourth and fifth amendments in particular. Research assignments are a key element of this course. |
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Contemporary World History |
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Course will cover the time period from the early part of the 20th century to and including world history as it unfolds today. This course will include the independence movements both in South America and Africa, as well as an in depth study of the creation of the State of Israel and the ramifications of its creation as perceived by the Arab world. Students will also study the dissolution of the Soviet Union and the end of the cold war and the rise of the Islamic movement and the impact on the world of Islamic terrorism. Current events will also be a part of the curriculum. All students will be required to write a comprehensive research paper. |
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Current Events and Contemporary Issues |
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This course will focus on matters of national and international importance as they occur. Topics of interest and relevance, many of them curricular driven, will be discussed and analyzed, affording students the opportunity to formulate opinions on issues of concern in today’s society. Connecting the current to the past will add relevancy and meaning to the study of history. |
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American History
American government and political science; see college course description.
Advanced Economics
See college course description.
AP Psychology
See college course description. |
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World Language |
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- Exposing students to the beauty of a significant world language other than English
- Connecting a world language’s impact on our own language
- Exposing students to famous authors’ writings in their original language
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Spanish |
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Our Spanish program is designed to instruct our students in classical conversational Spanish. Through language immersion, students will begin to speak the language almost immediately. Students will learn the fundamentals of the language with attention paid to grammatical constructs. On the intermediate and higher levels, they will learn to apply Spanish in oral expression and in writing. Works by Spanish authors will be covered to expand language usage and application. |
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Computers |
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Enabling our students to acquire a high level of computer literacy both in school and in the workplace
Enabling our students to use technology as a tool in all the abovementioned academic disciplines
Enabling our students to learn the latest programs to keep up with ever changing technology |
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- Microsoft Windows XP: Students will learn to carry out basic tasks such as running programs and creating folders in which they will save and organize the results of their work as files.
- Microsoft Word 2007: Students will create a variety of professional-looking documents, from simple letters and memos to newsletters, research papers, Web pages, business cards, resumes, financial reports and other documents that include multiple pages of text and sophisticated formatting.
- Microsoft Power Point 2007: Students will learn the basic of slide show production and presentation. They will be able to create animated slide shows that will deliver messages in a profound yet exciting way.
- Microsoft Excel 2007: The program includes spreadsheet setup formatting. Student will have the ability to create excel spreadsheets that are visually appealing and manipulate formulas and calculations to organize data.
- Adobe PhotoShop CS3: Students learn graphic manipulation and image enhancement techniques by using photoshop. They will be able to recolor retouch and redesign digital graphics to create marketable images.
- Adobe Indesign CS3: This course teaches students how to place text, pictures and graphics for camera-ready printing. They will have the ability to create graphically intricate documents, newsletters and ads that are visually appealer.
- Yearbook: Twelfth grade students take the knowledge they acquired during their school careers to create their own camera-ready yearbook.
- PowerPoint 2007: Graduates create their own slide show for graduation.
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Art |
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Introducing students to the history and theories of art
Exploring the elements of space, line, shape, form, color and texture
Exploring the principles of design - balance, proportion and movement
Developing an understanding of the influence of art on a particular culture
Developing a lifelong sense of appreciation of art in its various forms |
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- Art History: Students learn art history from the Renaissance through the present, highlighted by slide presentations.
- Drawing: Students learn techniques in shading. They also learn stippling and crosshatching.
- Perspective: This course teaches the understanding of linear and atmospherical perspective.
- Color Theory: In this course the students will create abstract designs and select colors to complete monochromatic, complementary and analogous color harmonies.
- Color Pastels: This course is designed to introduce students to the technique of creating landscape and still life arts.
- Water Colors: Students work with various techniques as they absorb the basics of watercolor through step-by-step demonstration.
- Collage: Students create paper collages, greeting cards, landscapes and autobiographical statements.
- Acrylic and Oil: Students create a landscape on a stretch canvas and an oil painting on glass.
- Sculpture: Similar to projects done in Parsons School of Design, students will create a free standing sculpture done from various size wooden cubes.
- Portraiture: As the culmination of the four year art continuum, students complete a portrait of a famous historical figure.
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