SBS- Course Descriptions
Language Arts
Reading • Writing • Listening, Viewing, and Speaking
Language • Literature
Mathematics
Number Sense, Concepts, and Operations • Measurements
Geometry and Spatial Sense • Algebraic Thinking
Data Analysis and Probability • Critical Analysis and Application
Science
The Nature of Matter • Energy • Force and Energy
Earth and Space • Processes of Life
How Living Things Interact with their Environment • The Nature of Science
Social Studies
Time, Continuity, and Changes in History • Economics
People, Places, and Environments [Geography]
Government and the Citizen [Civics and Government]
Foreign Language
Communication • Culture • Connections
Comparisons • Experiences
The Arts
Music • Visual Arts
Computer Technology
Microsoft Office Applications
Front Page • Publisher
Health and Physical Fitness
Health Education • Physical Education
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
Language Arts
English I
This course provides instruction in grammar, parts of speech, sentence structure, usage and punctuation. Content includes analysis of major literary genres. Literature instruction will include vocabulary, short stories, poetry, novels essays, and plays. Composition includes journal writing, essays, reports, letter writing, and research paper.
English II
This course provides instruction in English language skills and a study of World Literature. Content includes instruction in writing multi-paragraph essays with emphasis on the logical, critical, and creative aspects of the writing process. Vocabulary includes verbal analogies and other patterns found in persuasive and expository essays. The study of language includes syntax, mechanics, usage, and vocabulary.
English III
This course includes instruction in social, cultural, and historical forces reflected in American literature, with the emphasis on writing of documented papers. Listening, speaking, and vocabulary skills will be taught. Vocabulary study focuses on verbal analogies and other items common in standardized tests. A research paper might be required.
English IV
This course is designed to provide instruction in the study of British Literature. Composition instruction will emphasize critical analysis of information. Analysis will be presented in oral and written form. Languages study includes vocabulary development and an overview of the history and the language as reflected in literature. Vocabulary studies include verbal analogies and other patterns found in standardized tests.
Mathematics
Pre-Algebra
The purpose of this course is to develop the algebraic concepts and processes that can be used to solve a variety of real world and mathematical problems. The content includes: structures and properties of the real number system, varied means for analyzing and expressing patterns, relations, and functions, coordinate geometry, and data analysis concepts.
Algebra I
The purpose of the course is to provide the foundation for more advanced mathematics courses and to develop skills needed to solve mathematical problems. Topics will include sets, variables, structures, and of real number system, polynomial equations and inequalities, functions, graphs, systems of linear equations and inequalities, exponents, rational numbers, radical expression, quadratic equations, and systems of equations.
Geometry
This course will develop the geometric relationships and deductive reasoning relationships in proofs. Topics shall include straight lines, graphs, angles, polygons, separation properties and theorems of polygons, circles spheres, area, volume, and
Algebra II
The purpose of this course is to continue the study of algebra and to provide the foundation for applying these skills to other mathematical and scientific fields. This content includes properties of the real number system, relation, functions, graphs, polynomials and rational expressions, quadratic equations and inequalities, functions, rational and irrational exponents, complex problems, and word problem application.
Pre-Calculus
This course introduces the student to topics necessary to the study of calculus. This course content includes polynomial, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions. Also, set theory, mathematical induction series and sequences, vectors, and analytical geometry follow an extensive study of trigonometry.
Calculus
The purpose of this course is to provide a foundation for the study of advanced mathematics. Topics shall include elementary functions, limits and continuity, differentiation, anti derivatives, definite integral, intermediate forms, and application of the integral. A TI 83 graphing is required for this course.
Calculus AB Advanced Placement
The purpose of this course is to study college level mathematics under the guidelines of the Advanced Placement Program. This course will include all topics that are covered in calculus, but at a more in-dept study and application. Also, this course will include related rates, acceleration, velocity, inverse trigonometric function, and area under the curve problems. A TI 83 calculator is required for this course. The AP exam is given in May each year.
Science
Physical Science
The purpose of this course is to provide opportunities to study the concepts of matter, energy, forces, and their applications through activities. This course will provide students with a quantitative investigative study of the introductory concepts of physics and chemistry. This course shall include laboratory investigations, which incorporate the use of measurement, problem solving, safety procedures, and experimental procedures.
Biology
The purpose of this course is to provide students with an overall awareness of biology in all aspects of life. The content shall include scientific method, scientific measurement, laboratory safety and use of apparatus, cell biology, cell reproduction, basic principles of genetics, biological changes through time, classification of taxonomy, microbiology, functions of plants, animals, and of the human body, and ecological relationships.
Ecology
The purpose of this course is to provide students with a study of relationships between organisms and other factors comprising their environment. Content shall include biotic and abiotic environmental factors, food chains and webs, energy pathways and biological cycles population dynamics, major world biomes, endangered species, causes of pollution, man's impact on the environment, and analysis of ecosystems.
Chemistry I
The purpose of this course is to provide students with the study of composition, properties and changes associated with matter. The content should include classification and structure of matter, atomic theory, atomic periodic table, bonding, chemical formulas, chemical reactions and balanced equations, behavior of gases, physical changes, acids, bases, and salts and energy associated with physical and chemical changes.
Chemistry II
The purpose of this course is to provide students with a rigorous study of the composition, properties and changes associated with matter. The content should include classification and structure of matter, and all information that was covered in Chemistry I. In this course, students must feel comfortable when applying the mathematical concepts learned in Algebra I and Algebra Il. Extensive laboratory work, including formal reports based on research are required.
Physics I
This is a mathematics-based course. The content includes applying the laws of mathematics to kinetics, dynamics, energy, work, and power, heat and thermodynamics, wave characteristics, light and electricity, and magnetism. Extensive laboratory works, including formal reports are required.
Physics II
This course is an intensive, mathematical based, college course. The content includes an introductory study of theories and laws governing the interaction of matter, energy and the forces of nature. This course is an extension of the Physics I course, with an emphasis on applying the laws of mathematics. Extensive laboratory works, including formal reports, are required.
Social Studies
World Geography
Students develop multi-cultural understanding and uses geographical concepts and skills to acquire information and systematically apply decision- making processes to real-life situation. It also develops an understanding of social, cultural, economic, and environmental factors are applied to world regions.
World History
This course provides the students the opportunity to acquire knowledge and understanding of the chronological development of civilization by examining the political, economical, social, religious, military, scientific, and cultural events in the world.
American History
This course covers American history to the present. It includes a chronological development of the American people and significant events and issues such as the industrial revolution, immigration since 1880, World War I, the Great Depression, World War II, and the civil rights since 1950, all of which helped shape policy decisions in contemporary America.
Economics (.5 Credit)
This course will provide an understanding of the way in which society organizes its limited resources to satisfy unlimited wants. The students will be introduced to the major characteristics of the mixed market economic system in the United States and how the basic economic questions are answered. The major emphasis is to provide an understanding of the forces of the market place by examining the effect of their role as producer, consumer, saver, investor, resource owner, voter, and taxpayer on the system.
American Government (.5 Credit)
The course provides an understanding of American government and political behavior. The student will have knowledge of the documents that shape our political traditions, such as Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill Of Rights, as well as compare the roles of the three branches of government at the local, state, and national levels. The students will understand the role political parties and special interest groups in determining government policies, the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and the importance of civic participation in the democratic political process.
Sociology (.5 Credit)
Content will include an understanding of the methods of study employed by sociologists, social institutions and norms, social classes, relationships between the sexes, racial and ethnic groups, the handicapped, societal determinants, group behavior, the socialization process, social deviation, conflict roles, stratification, participation, and the role of social organizations and institutions.
Humanities (.5 Credit)
The course includes opportunities for students to explore, analyze, synthesize, and respond to cultural traditions through viewing, listening reading, writing, and creating. Students should gain an understanding of themselves and their world through an interdisciplinary approach involving the study of painting, sculpture, architecture, music, drama, history, literature, philosophy, and religion.
Foreign Languages
Spanish I
The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the target language and its cultural and to develop communicative skills and cross-cultural understanding. The content includes beginning skills in listening and speaking with special attention to pronunciation. Also, there will be an introduction to reading and writing, as well as the fundamentals of grammar and cultural.
Spanish II
The content includes a continuation of the listening and oral skills required in Spanish I. There will be a major emphasis on reading and writing, while oral communication remains the primary objective. This course will involve the cultural survey of Spanish-speaking people.
Health and Physical Fitness
Physical Fitness
The purpose of this course is to acquire knowledge of physical fitness concepts, understand the influence of a healthy life-style on health and fitness, and begin to develop an optimal level of fitness. The content includes knowledge of the importance of physical fitness, assessment of the health related components of physical fitness, knowledge of health problems associated with inadequate fitness levels; knowledge and application of bio mechanical and physiological principles to improve and maintain the health related components of physical fitness; knowledge of safety of practices associated with physical fitness; knowledge of sound nutritional practices related to physical fitness, and knowledge of consumer issues related to physical fitness. The course combines classroom work with outside physical fitness activities.
Weight Training
The purpose of this course is to provide students weight training opportunities, and thereby to acquire basic knowledge and skills in weight training, improve muscular strength and endurance, assess of muscular strength and endurance, gain knowledge of health problems associated with inadequate levels of muscle strength and endurance, gain knowledge of skeletal muscles, group knowledge and application of bio mechanical and physiological principles to improve and maintain muscular strength and endurance, gain knowledge of sound nutritional practices related to weight training. Knowledge of various weight training theories, knowledge of various equipment available in the field to develop muscular strength and endurance, and the knowledge of designing, implementing, and evaluating and administration of weight lifting activities; Also, the importance of safety during weight training to maximize your strength and fitness goals.
The Arts
Art (Ceramics/Pottery)
The class is designed to introduce basic techniques, tools, equipment, and some innovative new ideas for hand building ceramic pieces. Demonstrations include building pinch pots, coil pots, slab methods, animals, flowers, and abstract art. Students create pots and other designs on electric potter wheels. Outline of basic clay components, wedging, the components of glazes and their application are included in the course.
Drawing
Students experience a visual approach to thinking, learning, and communicating and learn fundamentals of drawing through illustrations and demonstrations. The class studies perspective, animation, optical illusions, art elements, and concepts of design. Students also study line, color, texture, value, and shape, and describe their relationship to each other in drawings. They identify the art principles of harmony, balance, contrast, depth, proportion, rhythm, unity, and variety and how each relates to drawing.
Painting
Students enhance their artistic ability by exploring methods of production and evaluating the work of other artists; expanding their understanding of the design, construction, and beauty of painting; and learning about the historical development of painting. A comprehensive study of painting while illustrating the various media techniques and principles is part of the course.
Computer Technology
Basic Computers (Keyboarding & Word Processing)
This course is designed to investigate computers their uses and capabilities. A student will enhance their knowledge in the components of the computer: PC's, memory, input and output hardware, mainframes, compact discs, programs and languages, and computer crimes. Also, students will learn how to format and proof documents.
Microsoft Word
This course is designed to expand on the skills of formatting documents, publishing, working with tables, merging documents, customizing tools, preparing web documents, generating long documents, manipulating graphics and creating drawings.
Power Point
Power point will investigate creating and modify presentations, formatting text and bullets, working with charts, automating electronic and slide shows.
Microsoft Excel 2000
This course is designed to give an overview and introduction to excel worksheet, the toolbar, handling files, editing cell contents, copying and moving files, formatting worksheets, formulas and functions, windows and printing, and charts.
Microsoft Access 2000 I
This course is designed to introduce data base concepts, opening an existing database, opening an access table, creating and printing a query & form, maintaining a database, querying a database, creating forms and reports.
Web Design I & II
This course is designed for web site design, page layout and design, web authoring basics, web paging, creating links, downloading graphics, specifying a directory, setting up images, HTML background and enhancements, structured formats, graphics and publishing, editing JPEG software, file transfer software, web site planning, HTML tools and techniques, and creating and using tables.
Microsoft Access 2000 II (for advanced students)
This course is designed for creating advanced queries and forms, customizing reports and integrating access with other programs, working with HTML documents, data access pages, and hyperlink fields, using query wizard, action queries and briefcase replication, automating tasks with macros, and using and writing visual basic for applications code.