MAHWAH HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAM OF STUDIES 2018 - 2019

BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS THROUGH RIGOROUS AND RELEVANT EXPERIENCES A GUIDE TO PROGRAMS AND COURSE OFFERINGS

Updated 8/2/18

HIGH SCHOOL ADMINISTRATIVE TEAM

John P. Pascale Principal

Linda A. Bohny Assistant Principal

Dominick J. Gliatta Director of Guidance

Robert Mac Farran School Security Officer

SUPERVISORS OF CURRICULUM & INSTRUCTION

Joseph Cozine Special Education, 6-12

Susan DeVito Supervisor of Technology Integration

Dennis Jarvis Science, 6-12 / Practical Arts, 9-12

Miriam Lezanski World Languages, 6-12 / ESL, K-12/ Performing Arts, 6-12/Visual Arts, 9-12

Maureen Lynch English Language Arts, 6-12

Roger Pelletier Athletic Director, 6-12 / Physical Education, 9-12

Danielle Poleway Mathematics, 6-12

Nikki Van Ess Business, 9-12/Social Studies, 6-12

TABLE OF CONTENTS

BUSINESS EDUCATION (PRACTICAL ARTS) 1

ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS 5

GIFTED & TALENTED – ENRICHMENT 11

GUIDANCE 13

INDUSTRIAL ARTS TECHNOLOGY (PRACTICAL ARTS) 15

MATHEMATICS 17

OPTION TWO 24

EARNING COLLEGE CREDIT 27

PERFORMING ARTS 29

PHYSICAL EDUCATION 31

SCIENCE 33

SOCIAL STUDIES 39

SPECIAL EDUCATION 44

VISUAL ARTS 52

WORLD LANGUAGES 55

Equity Statement:

The Mahwah Public Schools District prohibits discrimination in all of its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, and marital or family status. Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for a communication of program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact the Office of Special Education.

THE COURSE PLANNING PROCESS

The school counselors will meet with each student individual, between February and March, to assist with finalizing an appropriately rigorous course of study. Counselors will discuss course offerings, graduation requirements, and individual student goals. Parents are required to approve the proposed schedule.

MAPPING A COURSE OF STUDY FOR COLLEGE AND CAREER READINESS

It is essential that all students plan a high school education program that is academically stimulating, personally enriching, and best prepares them for higher education. We recommend that all students take appropriately rigorous coursework; the most challenging the student can handle without creating an undue burden. Graduation requirements will provide a solid foundation, but students should look to go above and beyond the general requirements, taking additional academic course work to enhance preparedness. Students should strive to take at least 5 academic courses each year in the core content areas (English language arts, science, mathematics, social studies and world language). College admission counselors will expect a student’s high school records to show academic rigor, quality of academic performance and participation in extra-curricular activities and community service. Whether preparing for college or career training, a strong academic foundation is critical for any individual to be competitive in college or the workforce.

COURSE SELECTION

Students are expected to give careful consideration to the courses chosen during the Course Selection Process. When a student selects a course, he/she is making a “reservation” that drives the creation of the Master Class Schedule. Changing a course request or withdrawing from a course may adversely affect section planning, class sizes, and course enrollment. A request may be rejected if the deadline for changes or withdrawals has passed, a section is filled, sections become grossly imbalanced, or the course is required for graduation.

Creating a master schedule to meet all of the academic needs of the student population is done through the following scheduling priority process: 1) Teacher recommendations and student elective request data is entered into the Realtime scheduling module. 2) Realtime scheduling module will assign all students their required core courses in English, mathematics, social studies, science, and world language. 3) Realtime scheduling module will assign electives based upon student grade level starting with grade 12, grade 11, grade 10, grade 9. 4) Physical education classes, senior study halls are assigned.

Admission Criteria to an Honors Course 2018-2019 Honors courses require intensive in reading, writing, computational, and critical thinking skills. In addition, students will be required to complete independent reading and written assignments outside the designated class meeting times. Students must meet all of the following criteria:

Honors English/Language Arts Courses 1. Mid-year average of 85% in the current honors; mid-year average of 92% in the current academic English course. 2. Unit test average of 82% in the current honors course; unit test average of 87% in the current academic course for the 1st and 2nd marking periods. Test average refers to all common assessments for content and writing. 3. Recommendation of the current English language arts teacher. 4. Demonstrates proficient levels of the Habits of Mind as stated in Compare and Contrast, by Harvey F. Silver, students will be able to:  Demonstrate persistence, accountability, and maturity  Take responsible risks  Question and pose problems  Remain open to continuous learning and think flexibly  Communicate through listening and responding with evidence

Honors Mathematics Courses 1. Unit test average of 82% for the 1st and 2nd marking periods in present honors course OR a unit test average of 95% for the 1st and 2nd marking periods in present academic course. 2. Recommendation of the current mathematics teacher. 3. Demonstrates proficient levels of the Habits of Mind as indicated in the Standards for Mathematical Practice (NJSLS 2016). Habits of Mind  Make sense of problems and persevere in solving them.  Reason abstractly and quantitatively.  Construct viable arguments and critique the reasoning of others.  Model with mathematics.  Use appropriate tools strategically.  Attend to precision.  Look for and make use of structure.  Look for and express regularity in repeated reasoning.

Honors Science Courses 1. Unit test average of 82% for the 1st and 2nd marking periods in present honors course OR a unit test average of 95% for the 1st and 2nd marking periods present academic science and mathematics course. 2. Recommendation of the current science teacher. 3. Demonstrates proficient levels of the Habits of Mind as indicated in the Standards for Mathematical Practice (NJSLS 2016). Habits of Mind  Make sense of problems and persevere in solving them.  Reason abstractly and quantitatively.  Construct viable arguments and critique the reasoning of others.  Model with mathematics.  Use appropriate tools strategically.  Attend to precision.  Look for and make use of structure.  Look for and express regularity in repeated reasoning

Honors Social Studies Courses 1. Mid-year average of 85% in the current honors; mid-year average of 90% in the current academic social studies course. 2. Unit test average of 82% in the current honors course; unit test average of 87% in the current academic course for the 1st and 2nd marking periods. Test average refers to all common assessments for content and writing. 3. Recommendation of the current social studies teacher.

4. Demonstrates proficient levels of the Habits of Mind as stated in Compare and Contrast, by Harvey F. Silver, students will be able to:  Demonstrate persistence, accountability, and maturity  Take responsible risks  Question and pose problems  Remain open to continuous learning and think flexibly  Communicate through listening and responding with evidence

Honors World Language Courses 1. Mid-year average of 87% in the current honors; mid-year average of 93% in the current academic world language course. 2. Recommendation of the current world language teacher. 3. If necessary, an acceptable performance in an oral proficiency interview and a writing assessment such as the STAMP test. These will serve as indicators of the student’s proficiency at the particular level he/she has completed.

There may be students who do not meet the criteria for entry into an honors course but have the potential for success because they are highly motivated. Therefore, students have the option to sign a waiver. Interested students should see their guidance counselor.

Waiver Process Students who meet specific criteria may waive into a higher level course. One waiver is permitted per year for incoming Grade 9 students. Two waivers are permitted per year for 10th and 11th grade students.  A student presently enrolled in an Honors or class but did not receive a recommendation from his/her teacher for the next level honor course must have a 78 average for the 1st & 2nd marking periods.  A student presently enrolled in a College Preparatory class and has earned at least a cumulative average of 88 at the time of recommendation (including the 1st and 2nd marking periods) but did not receive recommendation from his/her teacher for the next level honors/advanced placement level.

New Students entering from other schools New student transferring from other schools are to be accepted into honors courses as follows: 1. If no honors section was offered, they must have earned 90% (science, social studies, and world language) or 95% (mathematics, English language arts) on the final examination and in the last marking period in their previous school; if scores are available they must meet the requirements as stated above. 2. If an honors section was available, they must have enrolled in that section and must have earned 85% in the last marking period and 85% on the final examination. There may be students who do not meet the criteria for entry into the honors classes but have the potential for success because they are highly motivated. Therefore, after the initial selection process, the counselor may recommend these students to the department supervisor. The supervisor will make the final decision after reviewing their records.

Advanced Placement Admission Criteria Specific criteria for admissions into AP courses are noted by the course descriptions.

PROGRAM SELECTION

This Program of Studies describes Mahwah High School’s course offerings and the levels available within each academic discipline. The diversity of the program is an indication of our commitment to provide each student with the opportunity to maximize his/her potential while in high school.

Students and parents, with the assistance of the guidance counselor, may select courses that reflect individual interests, aptitudes, and goals, and lead to the successful completion of graduation requirements. Department supervisors and grade 8 teachers will make recommendations for level placement for incoming 9th graders. This will be based on teacher recommendations, standardized test scores, and, in certain instances, scores on tests jointly developed by the middle school and high school subject area teachers.

Program development is an on-going process. Each year guidance counselors will meet with students to review course selections considering the student’s academic success and changing educational objectives. Students can use the Course Selection Sheets for Electives to plan elective selections.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

Subject Area Required Credits/Coursework Recommended for MHS Diploma Credits/Coursework for COLLEGE PREPARATION

ENGLISH LANGUAGE 20 Credits (4 years) 20 Credits (4 years) ARTS

MATHEMATICS 15 Credits (3 years) to include 20 Credits (4 years) Algebra 1 (or content equivalent), Geometry, and a third year of math that builds on the concepts and skill of Algebra and Geometry*

SCIENCE 18 Credits (3 years) to include 18-24 Credits (4 years) 6 credits of biology, 6 credits of chemistry, and 6 credits of laboratory physics (students must take NJSLA –S grade 11)

SOCIAL STUDIES 15 Credits (3 years) to include 20 Credits (4 years) 5 credits in World History, 10 credits of US History (US History I and II)

WORLD LANGUAGES 10 Credits (2 years)* 20 Credits (4 years) 4 consecutive years of one language

PHYSICAL For each year of enrollment For each year of enrollment EDUCATION/HEALTH **

VISUAL/PERFORMING 5 credits (1 year) Reflecting interests and ARTS talents

PRACTICAL ARTS 5 credits (1 year) Reflecting interests and talents

FINANCIAL LITERACY 2.5 Credits (1/2 year of 1 2.5 Credits (1/2 year of 1 semester) semester)

STATE See “Assessment See “Assessment ASSESSMENTS Requirements” on next page. Requirements” on next page.

TOTAL CREDITS 125 Credits Required 140+ Credits Recommended

*Required credits must be earned while enrolled in grade 9-12. ** The State of requires 150 minutes of Physical Education/Health & Safety per week as per N.J.S.A. 18A:35-5, 7 and 8. When a lab schedule requires a student to be excused from a physical education/health class, students will be awarded 1.0 extra credit for the science lab, and will receive 4.0 credits for the physical education/health course.

ASSESSMENT GRADUATION REQUIREMENT

CREDIT ATTAINMENT / GRADE PROMOTION

All students must successfully complete 125 credits to graduate from Mahwah High School. During 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th grade, students must attempt 35 credits.

Grade Level Status/Designation Minimum Credits Needed 12th Grader 90 credits Must be eligible to graduate in June or August 11th Grader 60 credits 10th Grader 30 credits

NOTE REGARDING POST SECONDARY PLANNING

Considering the vast number of institutions of higher learning and the wide variety of admissions standards, it is wise to consult college websites for individual school and program requirements.

ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS FOR COLLEGE ADMISSION

It is recommended that students who are planning to attend college complete a schedule of academic courses including the following:

English 4 years Mathematics 4 years; 4 years required for math, science and engineering majors World Languages 4 years; a concentration in one language is recommended

Science 4 years; 4 years required for science and engineering majors Social Studies 4 years Electives Chosen from any academic discipline

Considering the vast number of institutions of higher learning and the wide variety of admissions standards, it is wise to consult college catalogs for specific requirements.

This academic program does not include all the state-endorsed requirements necessary to obtain a New Jersey high school diploma.

COURSE CREDIT ASSIGNMENT

The chart below is based upon the graduation requirements of the State of New Jersey and the Mahwah High School Board of Education. In a rotating eight period day (8 academic periods, 1 lunch period), it is possible for a typical student to accumulate 160 credits before graduation. Five credits (5.0) will be awarded for a full year course and 2.5 credits for a semester course.

The following is the typical course-taking pattern for a student enrolled in the district. Specific courses to be taken will be determined in consultation with the student, parents, and the guidance counselor.

COURSES FRESHMAN SOPHOMORE JUNIOR SENIOR 1 English 9 English 10 English 11 English 12 2 World History US History 1 US History 2 Social Studies 3 Mathematics Mathematics Mathematics Mathematics 4 Biology Chemistry Physics Science 5 World Language World Language World Language World Language 6 Visual, Performing, or Visual, Performing, Financial Literacy Elective Practical Arts Elective or Practical Arts Elective 7 Physical/Health Physical/Driver Physical/Health Physical/Health Education 9 Education Education 11 Education 12

8 Elective Elective Elective Elective 9 Lunch/Freshman Lunch Lunch Lunch Advisory

CAREER PATHWAYS

SPECIAL PROGRAMS

These educational programs include course work taken outside of Mahwah High School for which credit may be earned. Extended Learning Opportunities include: Virtual High School (VHS), dual enrollment, Community College partnerships, and online courses (curriculum must be pre-approved by the content area supervisor and high school principal).

DUAL ENROLLMENT / COLLEGE PARTNERSHIPS

WHAT IS DUAL ENROLLMENT?

Courses offered as dual enrollment for dual credit stem from agreements between high schools, universities and community colleges whereby a high school student may enroll in a college course and simultaneously earn college credit and high school credit for the course.

CURRENT PARTNERSHIPS

. SHUPA – Seton Hall University Project Acceleration . Fairleigh Dickinson . Rutgers University . BCC – Bergen Community College

Courses offered for dual enrollment are flagged in the Program with two asterisks **. Students who sign up for this opportunity will be required to pay a fee to the college and meet specific criteria (such as earning a minimum grade) in order to earn credit. See the school counselor for more information. NOTE: Courses taken on the college level receive “Honor” weighting. This includes courses taken on college campuses and the dual enrollment courses.

VIRTUAL HIGH SCHOOL (VHS)

Virtual High School (VHS) offers an opportunity to experience learning via the Internet. VHS offers an opportunity to pursue an area of particular interest, above-and-beyond the curriculum offered at MHS. This opportunity is open to tenth, eleventh, and twelfth graders each semester. Students must be self-motivated and self-disciplined. There is an application process, which includes recommendations and a review of past academic achievement including patterns of meeting academic responsibilities. Students who may be interested in VHS should see their school counselor for further information.

COMMUNITY MENTORSHIP

The shared time program provides students with the opportunity to receive daily vocational/occupational training as part of their junior and/or senior year high school program. Academic subjects are taken at the “home” high school and students are then transported to the specialized occupational training sites.

THE SATELLITE PROGRAM

Bergen County Technical Schools located in Paramus, offers training in eight trade clusters: Automotive, Construction, Electrical, Foods, Health Occupations, Office Occupations, Small

Animal Care, and Personal Services including Beauty Culture and Child Care. These programs are planned for a three or four-year training period. Students may apply to the Satellite School through their school counselors or case managers. All academic classes and co-curricular activities are scheduled at Mahwah High School which issues a diploma to the student at the time of graduation. Additionally, Bergen County Technical Schools will issue trade training and vocational skill certificates to the students who meet all requirements. The Mahwah Board of Education pays the tuition and provides transportation to the program.

NCAA ELIGIBILITY

REGISTERING WITH THE NCAA

The purpose of registering with The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) is to determine whether the students is a “qualifier” and can practice, compete, and receive athletic scholarships as a college freshman. Part of that determination is based upon the student’s completion of a required number of core courses in high school as approved by the NCAA.

If a student is planning to continue participation in their sport on the college level, he/she must: . Register online with NCAA at the conclusion of grade eleven. . Bring the required form, generated at registration, to the School Counseling Office so the appropriate documentation can be sent to NCAA. . Speak to the high school coach and review the College Bound Athlete Guide.

VERIFYING THAT SELECTED COURSES ARE APPROVED BY NCAA

Because the approved list of courses may change every spring, it is important that students verify that courses selected during the registration process are approved by the NCAA for the subsequent school year. Students are also encouraged to see their school counselor for more complete information on NCAA eligibility requirements.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) COURSES

Advanced Placement courses are college-level courses that provide students the opportunity to expand their educational experience beyond the regular program. Students who enroll in AP courses are expected to not only think critically and analyze and synthesize complex information, but also to develop the study skills and time management skills necessary to succeed in this academically rigorous environment.

24 ADVANCED PLACEMENT COURSES

1. AP LANGUAGE & COMPOSITION 2. AP LITERATURE & COMPOSITION 3. AP US HISTORY II 4. AP EUROPEAN HISTORY 5. AP PSYCHOLOGY 6. AP GOVERNMENT & POLITICS 7. AP CHINESE LANGUAGE & CULTURE 8. AP FRENCH LANGUAGE & CULTURE 9. AP SPANISH LANGUAGE & CULTURE 10. AP CALCULUS AB 11. AP CALCULUS BC 12. AP STATISTICS 13. AP COMPUTER SCIENCE A 14. AP COMPUTER SCIENCE PRINCIPLES 15. AP CHEMISTRY 16. AP BIOLOGY 17. AP PHYSICS C: MECHANICS 18. AP PHYSICS C: ELECTRICITY & MAGNETISM 19. AP MACROECONOMICS 20. AP MICROECONOMICS 21. AP STUDIO ART 22. AP THREE DIMENSIONAL DESIGN 23. AP ART HISTORY 24. AP MUSIC THEORY

MHS AP STUDENT EXPECTATIONS AGREEMENT

You have enrolled in an AP course for the 2018-2019 school year. Taking an AP course and exam is a collaborative effort between you, the student, your parent/guardian and the school. Each party plays a role and must make the commitment to meet the expectations noted below.

The Student agrees to organize his/her time and effort to successfully complete the AP course in which he/she is enrolled. The student will notify teachers immediately if he/she falls behind in class readings and/or assignments. The student will be expected to complete assignments, readings, and projects outside of class time. The student will take the AP exam on its scheduled date and time as outlined by College Board.

The Parent/Guardian agrees to be familiar with and accept the AP course requirements and policies, and to help his/her child organize study time in support of class assignments. The parent/guardian agrees to purchase required materials and to pay the exam fee ($92) as determined by College Board. If the parent/guardian is unable to meet these requirements for financial reasons, they will contact Mr. Gliatta, Director of Guidance, immediately.

The School (AP Teacher) agrees to provide rigorous instruction and challenging course content, as described in the AP Course Description. The school will provide the student with a copy of the Bulletin for AP Students and Parents and agrees to administer the AP exam in a fair and secure environment, as outlined in the AP Coordinator’s Manual.

AP Testing Agreement: Taking the Advanced Placement test is required for all students enrolled in an AP class, regardless if the college or university the student plans to attend after MHS accepts the credit. Students who do not take the exam will have the AP designation and course weighting removed from their transcripts. Students will be given honors credit, weighting, and the GPA will be recalculated to reflect the changes. Any sophomore or junior who does not take the AP exam will not be permitted to enroll in AP courses at Mahwah High School the following school year. The student/parent must agree to purchase required materials and pay the exam fee ($92), as determined by College Board in order to remain enrolled in any AP course. Fee waivers are available from Mr. Gliatta for students on free and reduced lunch.

I, the abovementioned student, agree to the conditions outlined in this agreement. I understand that the Advanced Placement exam fee will be determined by College Board for each exam. This agreement must be returned to my Advanced Placement teacher no later than September 2018. Students and parents will be notified in January about payment for the AP examinations.

FULL LIST OF COURSES

Business Education Core Grades Credits Geometry: Honors 9,10 5 Financial Literacy 11,12 2.5 Algebra 2: College Prep (CP) 9,10,11,12 5 Business Education Electives Grades Credits Algebra 2: College Prep Enriched (CPE) 9,10,11,12 5 Accounting 1 9,10,11,12 5 Algebra 2: Honors 9,10,11,12 5 Business and Personal Law 9,10,11,12 2.5 Pre-Calculus 10,11,12 5 Economics for the 21st Century 10,11,12 2.5 Pre-Calculus: Honors 10,11,12 5 Entrepreneurship 10.11.12 2.5 Calculus: Honors 11,12 5 Marketing and Advertising 9,10,11,12 2.5 AP Calculus AB 11,12 5 Honors Accounting 2 10,11,12 5 AP Calculus BC 11,12 5 International Business 10,11,12 2.5 Multivariable Calculus 12 5 Social Media in Business 9,10,11,12 2.5 Algebra 1 Accelerator 9, 10 5 Sports & Entertainment Mgmt 9,10,11,12 2.5 College & Career Readiness Algebra 1 / 2 9,10,11 2.5 Technology As An Interactive Tool 9,10,11 2.5 College & Career Readiness Geometry 9, 10, 11 2.5 AP Micro & Macro Economics 11,12 5 Mathematics Electives Grades Credits English Language Arts Core Sequence Grades Credits ACT Mathematics 11,12 0.75 English 9 9,10 5 AP Computer Science A 10,11,12 5 Honors English 9 9 5 AP Computer Science Principles 10,11,12 5 English 10 9,10 5 AP Statistics 10,11,12 5 Honors English 10 10 5 Computer Programming/Design 9,10,11,12 5 English 11 11,12 5 Data Structures 11,12 5 Honors English 11 11 5 Humanoid Robotics 10,11,12 5 AP English 11 Language & Comp 11 5 SAT Mathematics 11,12 0.75 English 12 11,12 5 Performing Arts Electives Grades Credits Honors English 12 12 5 AP Music Theory 10,11,12 5 AP English 12 Lit & Composition 12 5 Choir/Lessons 9,10,11,12 5 College & Career Readiness 9,10,11,12 2.5 Evolution: American Music 9,10,11,12 2.5 ELA Electives Grades Credits Jazz Band 1-4 (Option 2) 9,10,11,12 5 ACT: English and Reading 10,11,12 0.75 Marching Band/Color Guard 1-4 (Opt. 2) 9,10,11,12 5 Broadcast Journalism 11,12 5 Music Theory 1 9,10,11,12 2.5 Creative Writing 9,10,11,12 2.5 String Orchestra/Lessons 9,10,11,12 5 New Media 9,10,11,12 2.5 Symphonic Band/Lessons 9,10,11,12 5 Digital Film Production 11,12 2.5 Physical Education Core Sequence Grades Credits Effective Communication 9,10,11,12 2.5 PE/Health 9 9 Enduring Myths 11,12 2.5 PE/Driver Education 10 10 Film As Literature 11,12 2.5 PE/Health 11 11 Journalism: A Study in Print Media 9,10,11,12 2.5 PE/Health 12 12 SAT: Reading and Writing 10,11,12 0.75 Science Core Sequence Grades Credits Theater Arts Electives Grades Credits Biology: College Prep (CP) 9 5 Advanced Play Production 11,12 5 Biology: College Prep Enriched (CPE) 9 5 Play Production 10,11,12 5 Biology: Honors 9 5 Theater Arts 1 9,10,11,12 5 Chemistry: College Prep (CP) 10 5 Theater Arts 2 10,11,12 5 Chem: College Prep Enriched (CPE) 10 5 Gifted & Talented Enrich. Electives Grades Credits Chemistry: Honors 10 5 Education As A Career 11,12 5 Physics: College Prep (CP) 11,12 5 Honors Community Prb Solving 10,11,12 5 Physics: College Prep Enriched (CPE) 11,12 5 Honors Future Problem Solving 9,10,11,12 5 Physics: Honors 11 5 Introduction to Future Prb Solving 9,10,11,12 2.5 Science Electives Grades Credits Guidance Grades Credits Advanced Placement Biology 11,12 5 Adolescent Transition 9,10,11,12 5 Advanced Placement Chemistry 11,12 5 Bergen County Technical Schools 9,10,11,12 5 Advanced Placement Physics C 12 5 Community Service at MHS 9,10,11,12 2.5/5 ACT Science 11,12 0.75 Eastwick College 11,12 5 Anatomy & Physiology 11,12 5 Freshman Advisory 9 1 Environmental Science 11,12 5 Learning Advanced Strategies 9,10,11,12 5 Forensic Science 11,12 2.5 Mindfulness, Resilience & Wellness 9,10,11,12 2.5 Hnrs STEAM Capstone: Ind Res/Intern 12 2.5-5 Peer Leaders for Freshman Advisory 11,12 5 Microbiology 12 2.5 Industrial Arts/Technology Grades Credits STEAM: Design and Research 10,11,12 2.5 Engineering Design 9,10,11,12 2.5 Social Studies Core Sequence Grades Credits Engineering Mechanics 9,10,11,12 2.5 World History 9 5 Intro to Woodworking & Furniture Design 9,10,11,12 5 Honors World History 9 5 Technology and Engineering Principles 9,10,11 5 General World History 9 5 Woodwork & Furniture Design Inmed 10,11,12 5 US History 1 10,11 5 Woodwork & Furniture Design Adv 11,12 5 Honors US History 1/Pre-AP 10,11,12 5 Mathematics Core Sequence Grades Credits General US History 1 10,11,12 5 Algebra 1: College Prep (CP) 9,10,11,12 5 US History 2 10,11,12 5 Algebra 1: College Prep Enriched (CPE) 9,10,11,12 5 Advanced Placement US History 11 5 Geometry: College Prep (CP) 9,10,11,12 5 Honors US History II 11,12 5 Geometry: College Prep Enriched (CPE) 9,10,11,12 5

Social Studies Electives Grades Credits Visual Arts Core Sequence Grades Credits AP European History 12 5 Visual Arts 9,10,11,12 5 AP Psychology 11,12 5 Visual Arts Electives Grades Credits AP US Govt & Politics 11,12 5 Advanced Interior & Struct Design 11,12 2.5 Contemporary Issues 11,12 2.5 AP Art History 11,12 5 Film: Historical Perspectives 11,12 2.5 AP Studio Art 11,12 5 Hnrs Case Stud in Constitutional Law 11,12 2.5 AP Three-Dimensional Design 11,12 5 Honors Sociology 11,12 2.5 Animation 10,11,12 5 Political Science 11,12 2.5 Computer Modeling 10,11,12 2.5 Practical Psychology 11,12 5 Digital Photography 11,12 2.5 Racism, Genocide, and the Holocaust 11,12 2.5 Graphic Design 10, 11,12 5 The Big History Project 10,11,12 2.5 Honors Studio Portfolio Development 11,12 5 War and American Society 11,12 2.5 Hnrs Three-Dimensional Portfolio Develop 11,12 5 World Geography 11,12 5 Interior and Structural Design 10,11,12 5 Special Education Grades Credits Painting & Drawing 10,11,12 5 Foundations of English 9 10,11,12 5 Three-Dimensional Design 10,11,12 5 Foundations of English 10 10,11,12 5 World Languages Core Sequence Grades Credits Foundations of English 11 11,12 5 French 1 9,10,11,12 5 Foundations of English 12 11,12 5 French 2 9,10,11,12 5 Reading/Language Arts 9,10,11,12 5 Honors French 2 9,10,11,12 5 Foundations of Algebra 1 9,10,11,12 5 French 3 10,11,12 5 Applications of Math Lab 1 9,10 5 Honors French 3 10,11,12 5 Foundations of Geometry 10,11,12 5 French 4 11,12 5 Applications of Math Lab 2 10,11,12 5 Honors French 4 11,12 5 Foundations of Algebra 2 11,12 5 French 5 12 5 Applications of Math Lab 3 10,11,12 5 Honors French 5 12 5 Foundations of World History 9,10,11,12 5 AP French Language 12 5 Foundations of US History 1 10,11,12 5 Spanish 1 9,10,11,12 5 Foundations of US History 2 11,12 5 Spanish 2 9,10,11,12 5 Foundations of Biology 9,10,11,12 5 Honors Spanish 2 9,10,11,12 5 Foundations of Chemistry 10,11,12 5 Spanish 3 10,11,12 5 Foundations of Physics 11,12 5 Honors Spanish 3 10,11,12 5 Foundations of Spanish 1 9,10,11,12 5 Spanish 4 11,12 5 Transition Planning 9,10,11,12 2.5 Honors Spanish 4 11,12 5 Learning Strategies (1-4) 9,10,11,12 2.5 Spanish 5 12 5 English 1 9 5 Honors Spanish 5 12 5 English 2 10 5 AP Spanish Language 12 5 English 3 11 5 English As A Second Language (ESL) 9,10,11,12 5 English 4 12 5 ESL (Support) 9,10,11,12 5 Applied Math 1 9 5 Mandarin Chinese 1 9,10,11,12 5 Applied Math 2 10 5 Mandarin Chinese 2 10,11,12 5 Applied Math 3 11 5 Mandarin Chinese 3 11,12 5 Applied Math 4 12 5 Mandarin Chinese 4 Honors 12 5 Global History 9,10,11,12 5 AP Chinese Language 12 5 American History 1 10,11,12 5 American History II 11,12 5 Integrated Science 1 9,10,11,12 5 Integrated Science 2 10,11,12 5 Integrated Science 3 11,12 5 Integrated Science 4 12 5 Basic Spanish Culture 1 9,10,11,12 5 Life Skills 9 9 5 Life Skills 10 10 5 Life Skills 11 11 5 Life Skills 12 12 5

Business Education Courses (Practical Arts)

ACCOUNTING I Course ID 0602 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: none Course Length: Year

Accounting 1 is a comprehensive course designed to bring the real world of accounting into the classroom. Students will have the opportunity to use real-world accounting software (QuickBooks), source documents, financial statements and multimedia. The prime objective of this course is to introduce students to the double-entry system of accounting for sole proprietorship, corporate, and partnership forms of business enterprises by using real-world applications and connections. Students will focus on manual and computerized accounting utilizing spreadsheet software to prepare related financial statements. Additionally, students will develop personal and professional skills for school and work.

BUSINESS AND PERSONAL LAW Course ID 0604 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: none Course Length: Semester

An understanding of law is critical to business as well as daily life. In this course students will develop an appreciation for how laws affect them as minors and as citizens. Origins and implementation of law, crimes, torts, and the court system are discussed and analyzed. Students will learn how to solve problems relating to common experiences, analyze and judge real world cases, and orally present law-related current events. The material covered in this course is enhanced and reinforced through the use of technology, guest speakers, videos, and hands on project-based activities whenever possible.

ENTREPRENEURSHIP Course ID 0653 Open to Grades: 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: none Course Length: Semester

Entrepreneurship is a project-based course that will provide students with an understanding of the core concepts of business ownership. Students will develop a strong foundation for decision making through the exploration, discussion, and analysis of successful entrepreneurs. This study of the characteristics, philosophies and actions will provide students with a lasting framework for recognizing and creating business opportunities. Students will also examine product development, analyze economic trends, create a market plan, and finally consider ethical dilemmas created by their plan. It is within this collaborative setting that students will develop the tools to negotiate and analyze future business opportunities.

ECONOMICS FOR the 21st CENTURY Course ID 0336 Open to Grades 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: Course Length:Semester

This course exposes students to the power of decision-making and the benefits and consequences of choices. Students will use economic concepts in a collaborative setting to explore personal, community, national, and global economic issues. Students will learn core economic concepts through simulations, role play, videos, games and other student- centered activities. This course provides a solid foundation for a student who may want to further explore the social science of economics.

MARKETING AND ADVERTISING Course ID 0651 Open to Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: none Course Length: Semester

The competitive business arena requires organizations to cultivate new methods and techniques to reach their target market. By understanding the needs and wants of customers, marketers are able to increase the customer base, communicate brand proposition, and gain market shares. This course explores the valuable tools and insights marketing plays within the competitive landscape. As a pivotal department within organizations, students will be exposed to core concepts and fundamental business practices that develop stronger brands and strengthen customer relationships. Students will also learn how to leverage public relations through rhetoric, tap into digital marketing, form selling tactics and use analytics to form 1

solid decisions. Marketing is a project-based course that engages students in a multitude of real-world scenarios related to today’s business world.

HONORS ACCOUNTING 2 Course ID 0626 Open to Grades 10 ,11, 12 Pre-requisites: Accounting 1 Weight: 8 Criteria for admissions: Meets honors admission criteria. Course Length: Year

This course addresses the needs of students who want to continue to develop a strong foundation in basic accounting theories and associated applications. Students will achieve a mastery level of basic and advanced accounting concepts. The course will build upon the basics presented in Accounting 1. Students will be challenged to go beyond just the recording of transactions and financial statements. In this accelerated course, students will interpret and analyze the financial information and make business recommendations based up on their analysis. Students will learn how to use current financial information to forecast into the future.

The real world of Accounting will be brought into the classroom through the use of real world case studies. Financial information from real world companies and organizations will be studied and analyzed. Computer applications will be integrated throughout the course to strengthen students understanding of how to perform various accounting activities using a variety of different kinds of software.

Activities and assessments will challenge students to incorporate and integrate critical thinking skills into their Accounting procedures and analysis. Open-ended problems will be used to help foster greater growth in developing creative problem solving skills. A teamwork approach to many tasks will simulate the “real world” of business.

Ethics in Accounting and the business world will be explored. Students will be able to identify how knowledge of Accounting will help them in their personal financial life and in their future career paths.

INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS Course ID 0649 Open to Grades 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: none Course Length: Semester

Students who intend to participate in the global marketplace must develop the skills and understanding that will allow them to be competitive. Five out of ten workers in our economy are working for a foreign owned business or international corporation. Whether planning to study for an MBA or working as a mechanic for the Toyota Corporation, students need to have a working knowledge of business practices and cultural patterns in other nations. The recognition of the need to prepare the American work force with these skills is the foundation for this one semester course.

Students will investigate the business principles in a global economy. They will understand how role and gender differences in other cultures challenge Americans trying to conduct business in foreign nations. Students will also study the economic concepts central to the operation of an international business and identify business operations in various regions and cultures of the globe. This course is discussion-based on readings, special projects, simulations, independent study, oral and written reports, interviews, guest speakers, field trips and interaction on the Internet.

FINANCIAL LITERACY Course ID 0639 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: none Course Length: Semester

This is a course that focuses on the student’s role as a citizen, student, family member, consumer, and active participant in the business world. The course will help students develop strategies for managing their financial resources now and in the future. Students will better understand their own wants, needs and values, and how these affect personal financial decisions. By understanding the concepts presented in the course, students will be able to make wise decisions that will help their financial future and help to make them a better educated consumer. Students will explore career choices and match them to their interests, skills, and future goals.

This course is a project-oriented approach to learning. Students will work independently, cooperatively with partners, and participate in group projects. The Internet will be used as a resource tool and a method to keep up-to-date on the current financial world. Guest speakers will be invited to bring the “real world” of money management into the 2

classroom. This curriculum is aligned with the financial literacy standards as required for graduation by the State of New Jersey.

SOCIAL MEDIA IN BUSINESS Course ID 0656 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: none Course Length: Semester

In this course students will explore the realm of social media and how it is revolutionizing the business landscape. Through case studies, discussions, and interactive exercises, students will learn how to drive meaningful revenue from social media, through writing process and structure, as well as user engagement. Students will evaluate how businesses effectively engage consumers through social media and create and devise a meaningful social media presence. Analyzing the development and implementation of a goal-based social media strategy through the use of Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, LinkedIn, Pinterest and YouTube is a major focus of the course. After completion of this class, students will have the necessary knowledge and skill set required to launch an effective social media campaign across multiple Internet-based platforms, as well as the ability to stay up-to-date on the latest social media best practices.

SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT MANAGEMENT Course ID 0648 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: none Course Length: Semester

This semester course introduces the student to the principles, practices, and careers of possibilities within the sport and entertainment management industries. Students will investigate the scope of these industries, which is a growing major business enterprise in the United States and throughout the world. Students will be introduced to amateur and professional sports as well as entertainment venues and special events with a focus on how the managerial process relates to sport organizations and the products they provide. Through interactive learning activities, case studies, and professional profiles, the student is engaged in exploring and analyzing the dynamics of sport and entertainment management.

TECHNOLOGY AS AN INTERACTIVE TOOL Course ID 0644 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 0 Criteria for admissions: none Course Length: Semester

Computers are an important part of everyone’s daily life as we interact with technology in many aspects of our life including academics, work and our social lives. Preparing students to become computer literate in the 21st Century is essential as computer literacy goes beyond knowing how to type an assignment or send an email. It means keeping abreast of the ongoing and constant changes in our technological world.

This hands – on, project-based course, provides students will opportunities to understand and solve the challenges that our digital society faces. By using computer technology such as email, blogs, cloud computing and various programs such as Microsoft Office, students will be able to apply these skills to their academic and personal lives and future careers. Students will learn how to navigate and search the web efficiently and productively. The course will address key issues that are related to technology and technology ethics.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT MICRO ECONOMICS AND MACRO ECONOMICS Course ID 0347 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 10 Criteria for admissions: Advanced Placement Criteria Course Length: Year 1. Mid-year average of 85% in the present honors course; mid-year grade of 90% in the present academic social studies course. 2. Recommendation of the present social studies teacher.

This course is designed to challenge students with high academic potential, ability and interests, allowing them to gain possible college credit for an introductory college requirement in the area of economics. At the core of economics is maximizing satisfaction by balancing needs and wants. This course has been arranged to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of these principles of economics. Classroom activities engage students in games, simulations, creation of videos, group activities and lectures. The class is designed to walk students from learning 3

about the functions of individual decision makers to the economy as a whole. Students will gain knowledge in the factors of production, the role of government, economic indicators, money, economic growth, and international economics.

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English Language Arts Courses

ENGLISH 9 - INTRODUCTION TO LITERATURE Course ID 0111 Open to Grades 9, 10 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This course, Introduction to Literature, is the first English language arts course for freshman students. The major thrust is directed toward answering the essential questions and becoming lifelong readers and writers through consideration of the enduring understandings and standards outlined by the state. In addition to an exploration of the selected classic and contemporary texts that relate to the theme for the year, study skills, vocabulary development, grammar, and test preparation receive great emphasis. Students are given an opportunity to strengthen writing and reading skills and to develop an appreciation for the written word through an analysis of a variety of literary genres, including selected stories, novels, dramas, poems, and non-fiction selections. Students focus on how to write for an array of audiences. As in all English language arts courses, students are urged to consider how the power of language helps to “inform and move an audience.” (National Council of Teachers of English position on good writing)

HONORS ENGLISH 9 - INTRODUCTION TO LITERATURE Course ID 0114 Open to Grades 9 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 8 Criteria for admissions: Honors Criteria Course Length: Year

This course, Introduction to Literature, is the first English language arts course for freshman students. The major thrust is directed toward answering the essential questions and becoming lifelong readers and writers through consideration of the enduring understandings and standards outlined by the state. In addition to an exploration of the selected classic and contemporary texts that relate to the theme for the year, study skills, vocabulary development, grammar, and test preparation receive great emphasis. Students are given an opportunity to strengthen writing and reading skills and to develop an appreciation for the written word through an analysis of a variety of literary genres, including selected stories, novels, dramas, poems, and non-fiction selections. Students focus on how to write for an array of audiences. As in all English language arts courses, students are urged to consider how the power of language helps to “inform and move an audience.” (National Council of Teachers of English position on good writing)

ENGLISH 10 - AMERICAN LITERATURE Course ID 0121 Open to Grades 9, 10 Pre-requisites: English 9 Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

In this course (Conformity and Rebellion: A Study in Choice and Consequences) writing continues to receive major emphasis, with more attention given to the thoughtful development of longer themes. The major thrust is directed toward answering the essential questions and becoming more thoughtful readers and writers through consideration of the enduring understandings and standards outlined by the state. Vocabulary development, study skills, and grammar continue to be a regular part of the students’ work. Students are given an opportunity to strengthen and to further their appreciation of the written word through an analysis of selected stories, novels, dramas, poems, and non-fiction selections. Such selections will be discussed in conjunction with such literary movements as Enlightenment, Romanticism, Transcendentalism, Realism, and Naturalism. Continuing to examine the National Council of Teachers of English position on good writing, students are urged to consider how “control” of language helps to “inform and move the reader.”

HONORS ENGLISH 10 - AMERICAN LITERATURE Course ID 0124 Open to Grades 10 Pre-requisites: English 9 or Honors English 9 Weight: 8 Criteria for admissions: Honors Criteria Course Length: Year

This Honors English language arts course is designed for academically motivated students in grade 10. Factors considered for admission include previous English language arts grade, standardized test data and teacher recommendations. Pupils are expected to perform at a high level; independent work in reading, writing, and research is a large part of the academic demands of this course. Students write with strict adherence to the Modern Language Association (MLA) format for citations.

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ENGLISH 11 - BRITISH LITERATURE Course ID 0131 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: English 9 & 10 Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

The course (Culture and Identity: A Study in Perspective) is designed to examine how culture and identity shape who we are. Through a wide variety of classic and contemporary texts, students explore the essential questions and become more thoughtful readers and writers through consideration of enduring understandings and standards outlined by the state. Vocabulary development, study skills, and grammar continue to be a regular part of the students’ work. In addition, students are prepared for the particular skills necessary for doing well on the reading and writing portions of the state administered HSPA tests, as well as the SATs. Furthermore, students prepare many personal writing pieces that can be considered for possible revision and submission as college essays in the following year. The research paper will also play a considerable role as students work on research and synthesis skills throughout the year. Emphasis on how “the [good] writer exhibits the power to inform and move an audience through control of a wide range of the English language” is stressed in both the selections that students read and write.

HONORS ENGLISH 11 - BRITISH LITERATURE Course ID 0135 Open to Grades 11 Pre-requisites: English 9, 10 or Honors English 9, 10 Weight: 8 Criteria for admissions: Honors Criteria Course Length: Year

This Honors English language arts course is designed for academically motivated students in grade 11. Factors considered for admission include previous English language arts grade, standardized test data, and teacher recommendations. Pupils are expected to perform at a high level; independent work in reading, writing, and research is a large part of the academic demands of this course.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT ENGLISH 11 – LANGUAGE AND COMPOSITION Course ID 0136 Open to Grades 11 Pre-requisites: English 9,10 or Honors 9,10 Weight: 10 Criteria for admissions: Advanced Placement Criteria Course Length: Year 1. Mid-year average of 85% in the present honors course; mid-year grade of 95% in the present academic language arts course. 2. Recommendation of the present language arts teacher.

To read carefully, to think clearly, and to write logically and convincingly are the goals of AP English 11 Language and Composition. A critical awareness of language will help students understand as they read and create prose of complexity, style, and sophistication. Through analysis, argument, and synthesis, students will learn to make artful choices for audience as they structure thoughts and words. Students will write a well-defined thesis and a tightly reasoned argument as they practice various modes of discourse – description, definition, cause and effect, comparison and contrast, and persuasion. As a rhetoric course, students will evaluate nonfiction texts such as speeches, sermons, editorials, and passages from writings in the arts, history, social science, and politics. Students will apply the exciting art of argumentation, its appeals and fallacies, to these texts as well as arguments inherent in newspapers, magazines, and advertisements. Finally, students will develop a thesis for an issue-based research paper as they integrate and synthesize varied types of texts.

ENGLISH 12 - GLOBAL PERSPECTIVES Course ID 0151 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: English 9, 10 & 11 Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This course (Global Perspectives on Ethics & Morality through a Study of Myth & Literature) examines the conflicts and higher understandings that result from an exploration of the universal themes of human experience. All essential questions, enduring understandings, and state standards are reviewed and mastered. This course cycles through a series of eight conceptual units, each emphasizing a localized socio-cultural perspective of the human condition as revealed through literature—both fiction and non-fiction. This course focuses on further developing our students’ ability not just to enter the college or workplace, but to do so with a high-level of confidence and readiness. In addition to vocabulary development, study skills, and grammar, students work toward developing control of the language for the purposes of college-essay writing, synthesis, critical analyses, and research papers.

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HONORS ENGLISH 12 - GLOBAL PERSPECTIVES Course ID 0159 Open to Grades 12 Pre-requisites: English 9, 10, 11 or Honors English 9, 10, 11 Weight: 8 Criteria for admissions: Honors Criteria Course Length: Year

This Honors English language arts course is designed for academically motivated students in grade 12. Factors considered for admission include previous English language arts grade, standardized test data, and teacher recommendations. Pupils are expected to perform at a high level; independent work in reading, writing, and research is a large part of the academic demands of this course.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT ENGLISH 12 - LITERATURE AND COMPOSITION Course ID 0169 Open to Grades 12 Pre-requisites: English 9,10,11 or Honors English 9,10,11 Weight: 10 Criteria for admissions: Advanced Placement Criteria Course Length: Year 1. Mid-year average of 85% in the present honors course; mid-year grade of 95% in the present academic language arts course. 2. Recommendation of the present language arts teacher.

In addition to the reading and writing requirements of English 12, The Advanced Placement (AP) English Program in Composition and Literature develops students into mature and critical readers through the management and mastery of multiple reading and writing assignments. Students are prepared for the Advanced Placement Examination in English Composition and Literature through emphasis on analytical and critical reading. Writing assignments include exercises in exposition, argument, and personal narrative. Students study works from several genres and periods— works worthy of scrutiny for their complexity and richness of thought and language. Students are expected to think critically and work independently.

BROADCAST JOURNALISM Course ID 0172 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: Digital Media or Journalism: A Study in Course Length: Year Print Media or Effective Communication

Students will be exposed to several facets of the digital broadcasting process – both in front of and behind the camera – and will be responsible for completing weekly news projects, stories, and reports. The class will be split for half the year between journalists with producers and the technical production team consisting of camera operators, editors, and producers, each section taught by a separate instructor. However, these sections would meet during the same period of the school day, in order that there could be joint brainstorming meeting and instruction, joint story assignment, team assembly, scheduling, and actual filming of segments. Some classwork and story completion will take place during this period around the school. At the semester mark, students from each section would switch to the other section. The Broadcast Journalism class will be based on a series of Units of Study coinciding with each other in that they essentially run simultaneously. However, through teachers’ discretion of instruction alongside the collaborative teacher, specific skills and knowledge will be the focus during certain moments of the course and for specific projects.

CREATIVE WRITING Course ID 0148 Open to Grades *9, 10,11,12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: *Grade 9 students need recommendation of Course Length: Semester Grade 8 English Language Arts teacher

This course is designed to provide students with knowledge of and experience in various forms writing. In this semester course, the emphasis will be a hands-on workshop approach. Through study and practical experience, students will develop skills in many creative writing forms. These may include, but are not restricted to, poetry, short stories, children’s literature, scripts, character sketches, and advertising. Grammatical principles will be stressed, as well as adherence to the steps of the writing process. In addition, students will experience a variety of free-writing and idea-generating tasks and will submit original work for publication. They will also demonstrate a sense of audience and purpose in writing.

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FILM AS LITERATURE Course ID 0142 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: English 9 & English 10 Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Semester

Over the past 100 years, movies have become an integral part of not only American culture, but also a part of many cultures throughout the world. They have been one of the most instrumental mediums communications of ideas and values across cultures. The major focus of this course is American film over the past 100 years. In many ways, American films have defined who we are as a people; they are an expression of our fears, hopes, desires, strengths, weaknesses, and our basic humanity. In this regard, movies have become a new form of literature, dealing with the same types of universal questions that make for enduring written literature. As such, film deserves a place in the high school curriculum. Students’ performance will be evaluated in line with the five strands, reading, writing, speaking, listening, and viewing.

JOURNALISM: A STUDY IN PRINT MEDIA Course ID 0137 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Semester

This course is designed to teach the varied forms of news writing and appropriate journalistic styles. The influences and responsibilities of news media will be stressed. Effective lay-out and newspaper design are taught in conjunction with theories of good management. Students who elect to take this course should be proficient writers.

NEW MEDIA Course ID 0139 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Semester

Digital Media encompasses technical and aesthetic concepts of media creation. Students will develop skills through a series of lessons and assignments and will learn critical evaluation of produced content. Further, this course is designed to familiarize students with vocabulary, processes, and tools associated with media creation from pre-production skills through non-linear editing and exporting while still being able to “tell a story.” Ultimately, students will develop production skills by creating video projects, web-based presentations, evaluating video-shot techniques, and building a video sequence; students will learn project management skills, along with research and technical skills; students will gain an understanding of file types, copyright issues, importing media and exporting videos to DVD and the Web; and students will also improve their skills in front of the camera, focusing on appearance, delivery, and content.

DIGITAL FILM PRODUCTION: INTRODUCTION TO VISUAL THEORY AND TECHNIQUES Course ID 0145 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: Digital Media Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Semester

An introduction to visual theory and technique, in conjunction with Seton Hall University’s Project Acceleration program, will offer college-credit to juniors and seniors who have taken Digital Media as a pre-requisite and have successfully completed the course of study. Digital Film Production is the foundation for any student interested in expressing themselves visually. Students will learn to use the visual language of film to communicate ideas and feelings through digital stills and digital short films. The course itself will encompass the tenets of visual theory, visual design, “the shot,” “the camera,” editing, theme and story, genre, acting, director’s style, as well as adaptations and censorship. Various movie clips and works will be screened to apply these tenets to successful practice.

EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION Course ID 0143 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Semester

This course is designed to introduce, to refine, and to practice speaking techniques for use in the business, political, and social worlds. It encourages individuality of expression and organized oral presentation of ideas. A strong written component also exists, in helping students hone their written voice and argumentative skills. Regular preparation of materials and regular oral presentations, along with written pieces, will be required. Tapes, videotapes, self- evaluation, and peer evaluation will assist the student speaker and writer in the attainment of the course objectives.

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ENDURING MYTHS: A STUDY OF ANCIENT AND MODERN MYTHOLOGY (Virtual Online Hybrid) Course ID 0171 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: Application Course Length: Semester

This face-to-face and online, hybrid course, in the English Department, entitled Enduring Myths: A Study of Ancient and Modern Mythology, is designed to expose students to a high level of rigor found at the college/university level. Emphasis in the course is placed on a close reading of mythology from various geographic regions of the globe, including, but not limited to, Greco-Roman, Egyptian, Chinese, African, Native American, and Celtic myths. Through a close reading of these works, students will gain intimate insight into the common themes that tie these cultures together and also the points that mark their uniqueness.

Enduring Myths: A Study of Ancient and Modern Mythology evolves through eight thematic units with an emphasis on close analysis through assignments and online discussions. The course’s reading and writing activities are integrative, meaning that the writing assignments require students to synthesize the content learned through reading the class texts.

COLLEGE AND CAREER READINESS - ENGLISH Course ID 0166 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admissions: Teacher and supervisor recommendation Course Length: Semester Mandatory course based upon state proficiency.

College and Career Readiness (English) is a course designed to strengthen students’ literacy skills in grades nine through twelve. The course focuses on the activation and the application of cognitive and social reading strategies related to narrative, literary analysis, and research simulation task skills. In an effort to prepare students for college and career readiness, students will look at a series of literary and informational print and non-print texts, spanning a variety of disciplines. Multimedia and visual literacy will also act as a connecting role between and amongst sources of information. In doing so, students will work on synthesis and research-related skills that will not only help them to succeed in their high school courses, but will also help to prepare them for the PARCC (Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers) assessment. Students are placed into this course based on test scores, as well as by teacher recommendation.

THEATER ARTS 1 Course ID 0152 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This full-year course serves as an introduction to the study of theater and the performing arts. Students will be actively involved in comprehensive, sequential programs that include creating, performing, analysis, and reflection. Theater Arts 1 will familiarize students with the main factors of drama and theater production, as well as the study of the history of drama from the ancient Greeks to the artists of the Renaissance.

THEATER ARTS 2 Course ID 0153 Open to Grades 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: Theater Arts 1 or Theater Ensemble 1 Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This full-year course continues the study of the theater and the performing arts. The purpose of this course is to actively involve students in comprehensive, sequential programs that include creating, performing, and producing on the one hand, and study, analysis, and reflection on the other. It will expose the students to the more advanced aspects of drama and theater production, as well as an intense study of drama from the Renaissance to Realism (Shakespeare to modern drama). Independent study of modern theater is also part of this course.

PLAY PRODUCTION: ACTING, DIRECTING Course ID 0154 Open to Grades 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: Theater Arts 1 &2 or by permission of teacher Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This full-year course will introduce students to acting techniques, directing styles technical theater, stage management, set design and construction, stage makeup, lighting, sound, costumes, and props. Students will be actively involved 9

in all phases of the theater including acting, directing, and working in a variety of backstage positions. Students will follow a stage production from script selection to final curtain!

ADVANCED PLAY PRODUCTION Course ID 0157 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: Theater Arts 1, 2 or Play Production Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

Advanced Play Production is the most advanced level of study within the Theater Arts program at Mahwah High School. It is aligned with the New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards and goals for Visual and Performing arts, and it provides a unique opportunity for students to pursue special theater projects and independent studies in specific areas of interest. Advanced Play Production sharpens insights, perceptions, and creative though processes in the area of dramatic thinking. Additionally, the curriculum provides students with the rigorous training of an artistic discipline. The value of this process lies in the direct expression of one’s self as an instrument: emotional, physical, and vocal. Students realize their education in a small learning community in a fully personal sense through theoretical, laboratory, and experimental work. As a result of this twofold approach, students who have completed Advanced Play Production are prepared with the broadest possible base for continued artistic development and future career opportunities.

SAT: READING AND WRITING Course ID 0170 Open to Grades 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Non- Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: 18 days

The goal of this Unit of Study is to introduce students to the format of the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT), while providing guidance and strategies to conquer the tasks that make up the examination. Whether real or imagined, the acronym “SAT” may conjure feelings of stress and tension for high school students. The information provided through the course is intended to help students develop the confidence and skills necessary to perform at a higher level on the examination, while relieving overall anxiety.

The students will engage in an in-depth review of: fundamental strategies of standardized test-taking; identification, use, and evaluation of command of evidence; evaluation and use of words and phrases in context; unpacking of critical reading questions; evaluation of author rhetoric; synthesis of paired passages; synthesis of passages and informational graphics; analysis of writing development, organization, and effective language use; analysis and implementation of standard English conventions; creation of rhetorical essay writing expertise. The skills introduced and reinforced in this course align with the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and History, and they are valuable elements that enhance success in many alternative subject areas.

ACT: ENGLISH AND READING Course ID 0171 Open to Grades 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Non- Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: 18 days

The English ACT course is aligned with New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standards for English Language Arts. This course is designed to strengthen student test taking skills and to enhance student scores on the ACT. The structure of the ACT, along with the implications of how the test is graded, will be discussed. Critical thinking and mathematical reasoning skills will be developed and fostered. Students will learn and practice effective test-taking strategies that include but are not limited to: appropriate pacing, increased focus, and use of educated guessing. Students will learn to work independently, as well as cooperatively in pairs and small groups. Both verbal and written communication of ideas will be emphasized. The course is intended to motivate students of all ability levels to develop their problem- solving and test-taking skills.

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Gifted & Talented Courses - Enrichment

HONORS COMMUNITY PROBLEM SOLVING Course ID 0089 Open to Grades 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: Future Problem Solving at RR OR Intro to Future Weight: 8 Problem Solving at MHS Course Length: Year Criteria for admissions: 1. Mid-year grade of 90 in Introduction/Honors Future Problem Solving 2. Teacher recommendation to take Honors/AP level class or to continue in Honors Future Problem Solving

Course runs every other year and is subject to enrollment.

Students enrolling in Honors Community Problem Solving (HCmPS) have the opportunity to gain experience in authentic applications, through the development of a project that solves a real-life problem that exists in the school, state, national, or international community. Class members will design and implement a solution to their identified problem through the Future Problem Solving Process.

HCmPS emphasizes cooperative learning skills through grant development, event planning, and use of interactive technology to raise awareness about community problems. Students will have the opportunity to speak in front of groups, develop interactive displays, and build their personal network with students, teachers, and community leaders.

At the end of the year, students have the opportunity to travel to an International conference held at a major U.S. university to meet students from other states and countries such as Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, and Turkey. Students present their project for evaluation to the International Future Problem Solving Committee.

HONORS FUTURE PROBLEM SOLVING Course ID 0095 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: Future Problem Solving at RR OR Intro to Future Weight: 8 Problem Solving at MHS Course Length: Year Criteria for admissions:

1. Mid-year grade of 90 in Introduction to Future Problem Solving 2. Teacher recommendation to take Honors/AP level class or to continue in Honors Future Problem Solving

Honors Future Problem Solving is a project-based class where students work in teams using a six-step problem-solving process to research and analyze future scenarios, identify potential issues, create solutions, and develop action plans. Students’ competition booklets are scored by a panel of judges, and top-ranked teams go on to compete on the state and international level. When the competition season ends, students develop and implement real-life action plans to help solve current global issues, so students have an authentic problem-solving experience and can make a difference in our 21st century global environment.

Students in this course have the opportunity to develop analytical and problem solving skills, learn about futuristic and technological global issues, and work in teams to research and solve problems. They also will develop necessary life skills such as close reading, analysis, teamwork, and time management.

INTRODUCTION TO FUTURE PROBLEM SOLVING Course ID 0096 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Semester

Introduction to Future Problem Solving is a semester long, non-competitive course that is the prerequisite to Honors Future Problem Solving (FPS) and Honors Community Problem Solving (HCmPS). In this class students will concentrate on the six-step method use for competition by the Future Problem Solving Program International.

Students in this course have the opportunity to develop analytical and problem solving skills, learn about futuristic and technological global issues, and work in teams to research and solve these issues on the community level. They will also develop necessary skills such as close reading, analysis, teamwork, and time management.

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EDUCATION AS A CAREER Course ID 0097 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: Teacher and administrator recommendations, Course Length: Year on track for graduation, application and interview process required. Students will be selected based upon admission criteria. Course runs every other year and is subject to enrollment.

Education as a Career is a nationally recognized curriculum for those who aspire to enter the field of education. This course of study, endorsed by the New Jersey Department of Education, seeks to provide high school students with insights into the nature of teaching, the problems of schooling, and the critical issues affecting the quality of education in America's schools. Students will complete 10-12 hours of field experience where they are given the opportunity to provide instruction in their content areas of interest. The course has been adapted from the Teacher Cadet Curriculum which was developed by South Carolina’s Center for Educator Recruitment, Retention, & Advancement. Fairleigh Dickinson University offers 3 college credits to students who successfully complete the program. The following elements are stressed throughout the course: creative and authentic application of teaching strategies, cooperative learning, real-world based learning, leadership skills, community service, and portfolio and performance assessment.

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Guidance

BERGEN COUNTY TECHNICAL SCHOOLS Course ID 1203 (BCT AM) Course ID 1204 (BCT PM) Course ID 1202 (BCT ENGLISH) Course ID 1201 (BCT PE) Course ID 1205 (BCT MATH) Course ID 1206 (BCT US HISTORY 1) Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 0 Criteria for admissions: Application and acceptance by BCT Course Length: Year

In the tenth grade a student may enroll at the Bergen County Technical Schools. In this program a student attends Mahwah High School for one-half of the day and spends the remaining half at the Satellite School. The primary objective of this program is to train the student for entry into the field of his/her choice with a saleable skill. Specific shop programs are complete in three years. The shops at the Satellite include automotive body repair, automotive mechanics, commercial baking, commercial foods, cosmetology, graphic communications, masonry, retail merchandising, and small animal care.

COMMUNITY SERVICE AT MAHWAH HIGH SCHOOL Course ID 1225 (Year) Course ID 1226 (Fall Semester) Course ID 1227 (Spring Semester) Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Non Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Semester or Year

Students may earn credit toward graduation outside regular class time. They will be evaluated by the participating agency and given a non-numerical grade (pass/fall) based on the achievement of agreed upon objectives. Twenty- seven and a half (27.5) hours of community service equal one credit. A number of community service possibilities are available to students, including office and library clerical work, teacher assistance, and other service options. A maximum of 10 credits Community Service may apply towards graduation.

EASTWICK COLLEGE Course ID 1314 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Non Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This is a shared time program where students can take classes at MHS and then report to Eastwick in the afternoon. Students have an option to take classes in seven different healthcare fields. Students should make an appointment with their counselor to discuss this option.

FRESHMAN ADVISORY Course ID 1200 Open to Grades 9 Pre-requisites: none Non Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

It is the purpose of this advisory program to help freshmen students successfully make that transition to Mahwah High School through a program which will address student concerns, encourage academic performance, promote involvement in school activities, and develop positive relationships among their freshman class peers, their student advisors, the faculty, the student body, and the school community as a whole. This program is designed to provide a forum in which freshmen can also become familiar with the opportunities available at Mahwah High School in order to become active, responsible and productive members of the larger school community, as well as to embed strategies and skills that will have a positive impact outside of the immediate school environment.

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MINDFULNESS, RESILIENCE & WELLNESS (OPTION 2) Course ID 1231 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 0 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Semester

Twenty-first century students need skills beyond reading, writing, and arithmetic to face daily challenges. Habits of mind are now necessary to handle the everyday stresses of school, family and life. The course Mindfulness, Wellness, and Resilience gives students insight into how their mind and body are connected, as well as tools to manage this relationship. Classes will introduce, practice, and discuss different exercises to explore this relationship. Students will experience each approach to find the tools that work best for their personal challenges. Scientific studies, academic articles, and guest speakers will accompany these exercises, to deepen the understanding of the connection between health and academic achievement. The goal is for students to acquire a tailored set of skills to handle stress, manage time, and improve focus for greater success in school and life.

PEER LEADERS FOR FRESHMAN ADVISORY Course ID 1228 Open to Grades 11 & 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 0 Criteria for admissions: Application Process Course Length: Year

Junior and senior class students have the opportunity to become peer leaders and instruct the freshman on the course objectives for the Freshman Advisory. The process for selection to become a peer leader for this course includes an application and a recommendation from a current faculty member. The Freshman Advisory course will also serve to advance the following objectives for eleventh and students peer leaders for freshmen students, including

 fostering a positive, personal relationship with freshmen students  demonstrating leadership skills in conducting advisory sessions  demonstrating positive role-model characteristics  informing freshmen students about high school academics, athletics and co-curricular programs  assisting in the social adjustment of freshmen students to the high school environment  effectively presenting lessons designed to achieve the advisory goals

ADOLESCENT TRANSITION Course ID 1215 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Non Ranked Criteria for admissions: Administrative approval and Course Length: Year Effective Schools Solution recommendation and acceptance

This course provides students with a bio-psycho-social framework within which to explore the factors that effect the development of positive self-regard, healthy relationships, physical and emotional self-care, problem solving skills, and emotional/behavioral self-regulation. Students will develop a greater understanding and appreciation for their own unique qualities and abilities, while identifying both age appropriate developmental tasks and challenges that are specific to their own life histories. Students will identify the healthy and unhealthy coping skills that they typically employ and will learn a variety of positive coping skills to promote resilience and well-being.

LEARNING ADVANCED STRATEGIES Course ID 1222 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Non Ranked Criteria for admissions: Administrative approval and Course Length: Year Effective Schools Solution recommendation and acceptance

Learning Advanced Strategies is a non-credited class in which a certified teacher assists students in organizational and study skills, as well as any other identified area. This class supports the student in the regular education program. Students are expected to bring their class work to Support and utilize their time responsibly. Elective credits are not awarded for this course.

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Industrial Arts Technology Courses (Practical Arts)

ENGINEERING DESIGN Course ID 0881 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: Drafting or Interior & Structural Design Weight: 0 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Semester

This course provides students the opportunity to walk in the shoes of an engineer and architect through project based activities that reflect each field. The focus of the course will revolve around a residential development from the designing of a town, to the planning of a subdivision, to the drafting of architectural plans and conclude with the building of a scaled down model house based on their custom architectural plans. Real life examples, activities and problems will be used to mimic actual situations each student will encounter in their future. Lessons learned in this course comply with the S.T.E.M. initiative through examples such as referring to the hydraulic cycle in designing the subdivision (Science), using AutoCAD to draft their plans (Technology), assuming the responsibilities of an engineer to problem solve and come up with best solutions in their designs (Engineering) and calculating and manipulating lengths and areas for their architectural plans (Math). 21st century skill (learning and innovation skills, information, media and technology skill, thinking and problem-solving skills, interpersonal and self-direction skills, global awareness, business skills, communication and collaborative skills, and life and career skills) will inherently be covered throughout this course. Students will leave this course with the confidence and skills necessary to be successful in fields that implement the design/build process.

ENGINEERING MECHANICS Course ID 0882 Open to Grades 9,10,11,12 Pre-requisites: Drafting or Interior &Structural Design Weight: 0 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Semester

This course follows a real-world, hands-on problem solving approach to learning. Through project based activities, students will walk in the shoes of an engineer as they apply the engineering design process to research, plan, design, and ultimately build solutions to real life situations. Each activity the student participates in will be centered on the essential questions, "How was it made?", “What is its’ purpose”, and "How does it work?" Lessons in this course comply with the S.T.E.M. initiative. Students will find themselves experimenting with electromagnetism to explain how a circuit breaker works (Science), using AutoCAD to draft their plans (Technology), assuming the responsibilities of an engineer to problem solve and develop the best possible solutions in their designs (Engineering), and calculating the forces required to raise an object with a lever (Math). With an emphasis on mechanical engineering, this course will prepare students for practical responsibilities and provide each one with the necessary 21st century skills (learning and innovation skills, information, media and technology skill, critical thinking and problem-solving skills, interpersonal and self-direction skills, global awareness, business skills, communication and collaborative skills, and life and career skills) to pursue higher education and ultimately careers in technical design/build fields.

INTRODUCTION TO WOODWORKING & FURNITURE DESIGN Course ID 0805 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 0 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This beginning course is designed to provide a wide range of woodworking experiences. It incorporates the use of both hand tools and machine tools in the construction of fine furniture and wood objects of art. Emphasis is placed on teaching student how to use common woodworking machines safely and efficiently. The development of craftsmanship, respect for the environment, and a sincere appreciation of wood as a vital national resource are fostered throughout the course. Students learn about and use high quality construction techniques during the construction of their projects. All projects are designed to be challenging and to foster individual improvement in students’ problem solving ability. The value of safety awareness, planning, and good work habits is always stressed. Students are taught about and use new modern techniques and materials that represent the latest advancements in the woodworking industry. Each student is provided with an opportunity to select, plan, design, construct, and complete individual projects. Students are encouraged to use their artistic talents and strive to make their woodworking pieces of art. Demonstrations and lectures are used throughout the course, stressing career opportunities and occupational information as they relate to the woodworking field.

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TECHNOLOGY AND ENGINEERING PRINCIPLES Course ID 0883 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 0 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

The Technology and Engineering Principles course will provide the requisite skills and knowledge necessary for students interested in STEAM career pathways and other electives. This course also serves as the best course for students that wish to explore STEAM interests and/or fulfill a course requirement for graduation with a technology and engineering course. The course is highly hands-on and project-oriented. Students will gain foundational experiences in hand sketching and drawing, computer aided design (CAD), engineering design, electronics, computer programming, and the use of hand, machine and prototyping tools. This course is the foundational course for the career pathway programs in engineering, information technology and computer science and health and biomedical sciences.

WOODWORKING & FURNITURE DESIGN – INTERMEDIATE Course ID 0810 Open to Grades 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: Introduction to Woodworking & Furniture Making Weight: 0 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

Students will explore the notions of mastery, discipline, self-expression and work ethic. Students have tremendous creative freedom to pursue complex and sophisticated projects that can include desks, chairs, and even electric guitars. Through the study of contemporary master craftsman students are provided a standard and context for excellence and achievement in the Arts. Projects will employ new processes, different materials and increased craftsmanship. Demonstrations and lectures are used throughout the course, stressing craftsmanship, design, and safety. Quality, artistic merit, material sensitivity, and in these areas all play an important role in the student evaluation process. Students are assessed on their ability to synthesize this information both verbally and in the execution of their projects.

WOODWORKING & FURNITURE DESIGN - ADVANCED Course ID 0812 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: Woodworking & Furniture Making - Intermediate Weight: 0 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

Students will continue to explore the notions of mastery, discipline, self-expression and work ethic. Students have tremendous creative freedom to pursue complex and sophisticated projects that can include desks, chairs, and even electric guitars. Through the study of contemporary master craftsman students are provided a standard and context for excellence and achievement in the Arts. Projects will employ new processes, different materials and increased craftsmanship. Demonstrations and lectures are used throughout the course, stressing craftsmanship, design, and safety. Quality, artistic merit, material sensitivity, and in these areas all play an important role in the student evaluation process. Students are assessed on their ability to synthesize this information both verbally and in the execution of their projects.

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Mathematics Courses

ALGEBRA 1: COLLEGE PREP (CP) Course ID 0409 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 0 Criteria for admission: Recommendation of teacher based on need Course Length: Year

The primary objectives of this college preparatory course are to help the students master the basic structure of algebra and to assist them in acquiring facility in applying algebraic concepts to the solution of problems. Algebra 1 CP is a course designed for students who have demonstrated a need for greater support and remediation in mathematics. The course will present the same concepts outlined in the Algebra 1 CPE course. Manipulatives, graphing calculators and web-based learning are used to facilitate and enhance critical thinking activities, as well as conceptual understanding.

ALGEBRA 1: COLLEGE PREP ENRICHED (CPE) Course ID 0415 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 3 Criteria for admission: none Course Length: Year

Through the Standards for Mathematical Practice outlined in the NJ Student Learning Standards, students will learn to understand the basic structure of algebra. Connections between mathematics and other disciplines with realistic and relevant applications are provided. This course includes work with expressions and equations through understanding quantities and the relationships between them. Additionally, grade 8 concepts for linear and exponential relationships are built upon by modeling the mathematics. Linear models are used to assess how a model fits data as students work with descriptive statistics. Units extend to quadratic and exponential functions. Solutions to quadratic equations are held to the real number system. Further standards involve functions and extend the concepts of integer exponents to concepts of rational exponents. Manipulatives, graphing calculators and web-based learning are used to facilitate and enhance critical thinking activities, as well as conceptual understanding.

GEOMETRY: COLLEGE PREP (CP) Course ID 0458 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisite: Algebra 1 Weight: 0 Criteria for admission: Recommendation of teacher based on need Course Length: Year

The primary objectives of this college preparatory course are to help the students master the basic structure of geometry and to assist them in applying geometric definitions and theorems both inductively and deductively for logical analysis in mathematical proofs. Geometry CP is a course designed for students who have demonstrated a need for greater support and remediation in mathematics. The course will present the same concepts outlined in the Geometry CPE course. Manipulatives, graphing calculators and web-based learning are used to facilitate and enhance critical thinking activities, as well as conceptual understanding.

GEOMETRY: COLLEGE PREP ENRICHED (CPE) Course ID 0424 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: Algebra 1 Weight: 3 Criteria for admission: none Course Length: Year

Through the Standards for Mathematical Practice outlined in the NJ Student Learning Standards and moving towards formal mathematical arguments, the standards presented in this high school geometry course are meant to formalize and extend middle grades geometric experiences. Triangle congruence conditions are established using analysis of rigid motion and formal constructions. Various formats will be used to prove theorems about angles, lines, triangles and other polygons and similarity. The notion of similarity is extended to right triangles and the understanding of right triangle trigonometry. The Laws of Sines and Cosines are utilized to find missing measures of triangles in general, not just right triangles. This course also focuses on circles and using the rectangular coordinate system to verify geometric properties and to solve geometric problems. Concepts of similarity will be used to establish the relationship among segments on chords, secants and tangents as well as to prove basic theorems about circles. Previous understandings of two- dimensional objects are used to explain, visualize, and apply geometric concepts to three-dimensional objects. Informal explanations of circumference, area and volume formulas are analyzed. Manipulatives, graphing calculators and web-based learning are used to facilitate and enhance critical thinking activities, as well as conceptual understanding.

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Geometry CPE and Algebra 2 CPE may be taken concurrently, with teacher recommendation and the permission of the Mathematics supervisor.

GEOMETRY: HONORS Course ID 0426 Open to Grades 9, 10 Pre-requisites: Algebra 1 Weight: 8 Criteria for admission: Meets honors admission criteria Course Length: Year

This course includes the concepts studied in the Geometry CPE course plus additional selected topics designed to broaden and strengthen a student’s insight and understanding of the nature of mathematics. Additional emphasis is placed on mathematical proof, relevant application problems and SAT and ACT Preparation. Manipulatives, graphing calculators and web-based learning are used to facilitate and enhance critical thinking activities, as well as conceptual understanding.

ALGEBRA 2: COLLEGE PREP (CP) Course ID 0404 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: Geometry Weight: 0 Criteria for admission: None Course Length: Year

The primary objectives of this college preparatory course are to help the students master the connections between the basic structures of Algebra 1 and 2, and to assist them in acquiring facility in applying algebraic concepts to the solution of problems. Algebra 2 CP is a course designed for students who have demonstrated a need for greater support and remediation in mathematics. The course will present the same concepts outlined in the Algebra 2 CPE course. Manipulatives, graphing calculators and web-based learning are used to facilitate and enhance critical thinking activities, as well as conceptual understanding.

ALGEBRA 2: COLLEGE PREP ENRICHED (CPE) Course ID 0434 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: Geometry Weight: 3 Criteria for admission: None Course Length: Year

This is a traditional course in mathematics for the college bound student. It follows Algebra 1 CPE and Geometry CPE and is a precursor to Pre-calculus. Through the Standards for Mathematical Practice outlined in the NJ Student Learning Standards, students in Algebra 2 extend the basic structure of Algebra 1. Building on the understanding of linear, quadratic and exponential functions from Algebra I, this course extends function concepts to include polynomial, rational, and radical functions. The standards in this course continue the work of modeling situations and solving equations. Students explore the effects of the transformations on graphs of functions and include identifying an appropriate model for a given situation. Additionally, students' previous knowledge of functions, trigonometric ratios and circles in geometry to extend trigonometry to model periodic phenomena are explored. Lastly, students relate the visual displays and summary statistics learned in prior courses to different types of data and to probability distributions. Samples, surveys, experiments and simulations are used as methods to collect data. Manipulatives, graphing calculators and web-based learning are used to facilitate and enhance critical thinking activities, as well as conceptual understanding.

Geometry CPE and Algebra 2 CPE may be taken concurrently, with teacher recommendation and the permission of the Mathematics supervisor.

ALGEBRA 2: HONORS Course ID 0435 Open to Grades 9, 10 ,11, 12 Pre-requisites: Geometry Weight: 8 Criteria for admission: Meets honors admission criteria. Course Length: Year

This course includes the concepts studied in the Algebra 2 CPE course plus additional selected topics designed to broaden and strengthen a student’s insight and understanding of the nature of mathematics. Additional emphasis is placed on discrete mathematics, conic sections, combinatorics, probability, logarithms and SAT and ACT Preparation. Manipulatives, graphing calculators and web-based learning are used to facilitate and enhance critical thinking activities, as well as conceptual understanding.

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STATISTICS Course ID 0462 Open to Grade 12 Pre-requisite: Algebra 2 Weight: 3 Criteria for admission: Prior approval and placement by Course length: Year Mathematics Supervisor

This course is an introduction to descriptive and inferential statistics, offering elementary probability as its background. Students will focus on organization and description of data, probability, probability distribution, inferences and hypothesis testing, correlation and linear regression through the use of real world data sets. The course will introduce students to the language and methodology of statistics through applications, and will serve to prepare students to apply statistics in college and in their careers.

Through the analysis of real world data, students will be able to: (1) appropriately collect data, (2) display and analyze data, (3) make calculations and informed predictions about a population. Students will also be able to solve problems through probability calculations. The course will focus on algebraic analysis, as well as analysis through the use of appropriate technology, including the graphing calculator, and Microsoft Excel.

PRE-CALCULUS Course ID 0444 Open to Grades 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: Algebra 2 Weight: 3 Criteria for admission: none Course Length: Year

This course presents and develops the mathematics needed to prepare a student for a college level Calculus course by integrating algebraic and geometric concepts. Extensive use of graphing calculators and web-based applications are made throughout the year. The course stresses the application of mathematics to various fields. This course includes a brief review of selected Algebra 2 topics, conic sections, exponential and logarithmic functions, and trigonometry. Manipulatives, graphing calculators and web-based learning are used to facilitate and enhance critical thinking activities, as well as conceptual understanding. Additional emphasis is placed on ACT and SAT preparation for the juniors and college placement examination preparation for the seniors.

PRE-CALCULUS: HONORS Course ID 0445 Open to Grades 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: Algebra 2 Weight: 8 Criteria for admission: Meets honors admission criteria. Course Length: Year

The course includes all the concepts in the college prep Pre-Calculus course plus several additional topics designed for the able student. Additional topics from discrete math, data analysis, limits and introduction to calculus are introduced. Manipulatives, graphing calculators and web-based learning are used to facilitate and enhance critical thinking activities, as well as conceptual understanding. Additional emphasis is placed on SAT I and II and ACT preparation.

CALCULUS: HONORS Course ID 0446 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: Pre-calculus Weight: 8 Criteria for admission: Meets honors admissions criteria. Course Length: Year

This honors level course is designed for students who have finished Pre-Calculus and would like to take a Calculus course without the rigors of an Advanced Placement course. Some major concepts from Pre-calculus will be reviewed, but the emphasis will be on introducing and reinforcing the concepts of Calculus including limits, continuity, differentiation, and integration. A student who completes this course successfully should be well prepared to take a college level Calculus course. Manipulatives, graphing calculators and web-based learning are used to facilitate and enhance critical thinking activities, as well as conceptual understanding.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT CALCULUS AB Course ID 0447 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: Pre-calculus Weight: 10 Criteria for admission: Course Length: Year 1. Mid-year average of 82% in the present honors mathematics; mid-year grade of 95% in the present academic mathematics course. 2. Demonstrates proficient levels of the Standards of Mathematical Practice. 3. Recommendation of the present mathematics teacher.

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This AP mathematics course is intended for students who have a thorough knowledge of college preparatory mathematics, including algebra, axiomatic geometry, trigonometry, and analytic geometry. It is a college level course in introductory calculus with elementary functions. Some colleges may grant exemption from required basic courses and/or credit when mastery is demonstrated by results on an Advanced Placement examination or other criteria. Students should check with individual colleges as to their policies regarding this process. Topics in this course include: functions and derivatives with a variety of applications, limits the differential, techniques of integration and the definite integral. Graphing calculators and web-based applications are used extensively to enhance conceptual understanding.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT CALCULUS BC Course ID 0448 Open Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: Honors Pre-calculus Weight: 10 Criteria for admission: Course Length: Year 1. Mid-year average of 90% in the present honors mathematics; mid-year grade of 98% in the present academic mathematics course. 2. Demonstrates proficient levels of the Standards for Mathematical Practice. 3. Recommendation of the present mathematics teacher.

This AP mathematics course is intended for superior mathematics students who have a thorough knowledge of analytic geometry and elementary functions in addition to college preparatory algebra, geometry and trigonometry. Calculus BC is considerably more extensive than Calculus AB as the course expands upon the AB topics and also includes such topics as: the study of vector functions and parametrically defined functions, graphs in polar coordinates, integration, and the study of infinite sequences and series. Graphing calculators and web-based applications are used extensively to enhance conceptual understanding.

MULTIVARIABLE CALCULUS Course ID 0449 Open to Grade 12 Pre-requisites: Advanced Placement Calculus BC Weight: 10 Criteria for admission: Course Length: Year 1. Mid-year average of 90% in the present honors mathematics; mid-year grade of 98% in the present academic mathematics course. 2. Demonstrates proficient levels for the Standards of Mathematical Practice. 3. Recommendation of the present mathematics teacher.

Multivariable Calculus is the equivalent of a typical third semester college calculus course. It is a continuation and extension of the BC Calculus course. Single-variable calculus concepts will be applied to vector and parametric functions, as well as explaining single-variable calculus concepts to functions of more than one variable. Units in this course include: Vectors and Geometry in R 3 , Vector – Valued Functions, Partial Derivatives, Multiple Integrals, Applications of Multivariable Calculus, and Differential Equations. Graphing calculators and web-based applications are used extensively to enhance conceptual understanding.

COMPUTER PROGRAMMING AND DESIGN Course ID 0431 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: Algebra 1 Weight: 3 Criteria for admission: none Course Length: Year

In this year long course, students use computational thinking and computer programming as tools used in design and engineering while demonstrating an understanding of the problem-solving capacity of computers in our world. Using Alice, Python and Java (with an emphasis on programming in Java), students program using a structured, top-down approach to solve problems or accomplish a task. Additionally, students apply computational thinking practice, build vocabulary and collaborate just as computing professionals do to create products that address topics and problems important to them. Topics to be covered include: selection, looping, methods, classes as a black box, computer hardware, primitive graphics, hexadecimal and binary number systems, arrays, objects and Graphical User Interfaces, applets across the web.

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ADVANCED PLACEMENT COMPUTER SCIENCE A Course ID 0432 Open to Grades 10,11, 12 Pre-requisites: Comp Sci Programming and Design Weight: 10 Criteria for admission: Meets honors admission criteria Course Length: Year

This AP Computer Science course is intended to serve both as an introductory course for computer science majors and as a course for students who will major in other disciplines that require significant involvement with computing. The major emphasis of this course is on programming methodology and object-oriented analysis and design. Included is the study of algorithms and data structures. The program writing in this course are very complex and reflect real- world scenarios. Time will be dedicated to the AP Computer Science Case Study. Some colleges may grant exemption from required basic courses and/or credit when mastery is demonstrated by results on an Advanced Placement examination or other criteria. Students should check with individual colleges as to their policies regarding this process.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT COMPUTER SCIENCE PRINCIPLES Course ID 0483 Open to Grades 10,11, 12 Pre-requisites: Algebra 1 Weight: 10 Criteria for admission: Meets honors admission criteria Course Length: Year

Computer science is everywhere, from our smartphones and video games to music, medicine, and much more. AP Computer Science Principles will help the student understand how computing and technology influence the world around them. Students will learn how to creatively address real-world issues by building socially useful mobile apps. This course will utilize the Mobile CSP curriculum based on App Inventor, a mobile programming language for Android devices. In this course, the student will learn how computer science is useful to more than just computer programmers. In addition to programming and computer science principles, the course is project-based and emphasizes writing, communication, collaboration and creativity. Some colleges may grant exemption from required basic courses and/or credit when mastery is demonstrated by results on an Advanced Placement examination or other criteria. Students should check with individual colleges as to their policies regarding this process.

DATA STRUCTURES Course ID 0433 Open to Grades: 11, 12 Pre-requisite: Algebra 2 Weight: 10 Criteria for admission: Successful completion of AP Computer Science Course length: Year

Data Structures is a course designed for the student who want to further develop skills in the design of data structures and algorithms, the techniques of object-oriented programming, and the use of the Java programming language. It is comparable to a second semester college-level course in Data Structures and moves beyond the NJ Core Content Curriculum Standards.

Students will be expected to apply problem-solving skills, mathematical reasoning, and written communication skills while solving of problems in many application areas. In addition to demonstrating the ability to design, implement, and test solutions to computer problems, students will understand Graphical User Interfaces and networking/server protocol. Lastly, students will utilize a variety of available technology tools including but not limited to Jcreator software, Oracle Java, web-based research, and Microsoft Software Applications.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT STATISTICS Course ID 0461 Open to Grades 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: Algebra 2 Weight: 10 Criteria for admission: Course Length: Year 1. Mid-year average of 82% in the present honors mathematics; mid-year grade of 90% in the present academic mathematics course. 2. Demonstrates proficient levels of the Standards for Mathematical Practice. 3. Recommendation of the present mathematics teacher.

This AP Statistics course is a one year course intended for capable students who wish to complete studies in high school which are equivalent to a one semester, introductory, non-calculus based, college course in statistics. The purpose of the course is to introduce students to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. Students are exposed to four broad conceptual themes: exploring data, planning a study, anticipating patterns and drawing conclusions from data. Graphing calculators and web-based applications are used extensively to enhance conceptual understanding. Some colleges may grant exemption from required basic courses

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and/or credit when mastery is demonstrated by results on an Advanced Placement examination or other criteria. Students should check with individual colleges as to their policies regarding this process.

ALGEBRA 1 ACCELERATOR Course ID 0455 Open to Grades 9, 10 Co-requisites: Algebra CP Non - Ranked Criteria for admission: Mandatory course based upon proficiency. Course Length: Year

Algebra 1 Accelerator is designed to strengthen content and process skills with respect to Algebra 1 NJ Student Learning Standards. This course focuses on understanding mathematical expressions, polynomial, exponential, logarithmic and trigonometric functions, and statistics. The functions will be analyzed with respect to their multiple representations and their real world applications. Instructional strategies will incorporate technology and cooperative learning to foster students’ ongoing development in independent mathematical thinking and perseverance. These skills will not only help students to succeed in their high school courses, but will also help to prepare them for the PARCC, SAT and ACT assessments. Students are placed into this course based on test scores, as well as by teacher recommendation.

COLLEGE & CAREER READINESS ALGEBRA 1 / 2 Course ID 0457 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admission: Mandatory course based upon proficiency. Course Length: Semester

This course is designed to strengthen content and process skills needed for successful completion of Algebra 1 CP/CPE and/or Algebra 2 CP/CPE. This course focuses on understanding mathematical expressions, linear equations and inequalities, systems of equations, and quadratic and exponential functions as outlined in the Algebra 1 CP/CPE and/or Algebra 2 CP/CPE course descriptions. Instructional strategies will incorporate technology and cooperative learning to foster students’ ongoing development in independent mathematical thinking and perseverance. These skills will not only help students to succeed in their high school courses, but will also help to prepare them for the PARCC, SAT and ACT assessments. Students are placed into this course based on test scores, as well as by teacher recommendation.

COLLEGE & CAREER READINESS GEOMETRY Course ID 0456 Open to Grades 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admission: Mandatory course based upon proficiency. Course Length: Semester

This course is designed to strengthen content and process skills needed for successful completion of Geometry CP/CPE. This course focuses on understanding the relationships between geometric definitions and theorems as they using them in inductive and deductive proofs. Also included in this course is targeted support for algebraic procedural skills. Instructional strategies will incorporate technology and cooperative learning to foster students’ ongoing development in independent mathematical thinking and perseverance. These skills will not only help students to succeed in their high school courses, but will also help to prepare them for the PARCC, SAT and ACT assessments. Students are placed into this course based on test scores, as well as by teacher recommendation.

SAT MATHEMATICS Course ID 0481 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admission: none Course Length: 18 days

This course is offered after the regular school day and is offered in the fall, winter, and spring. The Math SAT course is directly aligned with New Jersey Student Learning Standards Mathematics. This course is designed to strengthen student test taking skills and to enhance student scores on the Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT). The structure of the SAT, along with the implications of how the exam is graded, are discussed. Thinking and mathematical reasoning skills are developed while students work independently and cooperatively. Students learn and practice effective test taking strategies including: appropriate pacing, increased focusing, estimating answers, substituting in answer choices, and educated guessing. Both verbal and written communication are emphasized. The course is intended to motivate students of all ability levels to develop their problem solving and test taking skills.

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HUMANOID ROBOTICS Course ID 0473 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 3 Criteria for admission: none Course Length: Year

In this project-based course, students apply the engineering design process using computational thinking and programming through robotic technology, including Vex equipment and NAO robots. This course is designed for students to solve meaningful problems through the practices of engineering design applying knowledge of mathematics, science and technology. Students will learn how to use feedback from sensors, applied mathematics and measurement to program their robot to navigate in its environment while programming in ROBOTC and Choregraphe. Students will have the opportunity to cooperatively complete multiple challenges involving guided research, problem solving, and design documentation by means of an Engineer's Notebook.

ACT MATHEMATICS Course ID 0482 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admission: none Course Length: 18 days

The Math ACT course is directly aligned with the New Jersey Student Learning Standards in mathematics. This course is designed to enhance student scores on the American College Test (ACT) with a concentration on test taking skills. The structure of the ACT, along with the implications of how the test is graded, will be discussed. Understanding and fluency, along with application of mathematical concepts, skills and practices will be addressed and strengthened. Students will learn and practice effective test taking strategies that include but are not limited to: appropriate pacing, increased focus, use of an appropriate calculator in appropriate sections, use of estimated answers, use of substituted values for back - solving, use of substituted numbers and use of educated guessing. Students will learn to work independently, as well as cooperatively in pairs and small groups. Both verbal and written communication of ideas will be emphasized. The course is intended to motivate students of all ability levels to develop their problem solving and test taking skills.

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Option Two Courses

Prior administration approval by the department supervisor, director of guidance, and principal must be obtained before enrolling in any option two programs.

Any costs incurred as a result of an option two program will be the responsibility of the parent/guardian. The Board of Education will not assume any responsibility for any fees associated with this program.

Please contact your child’s guidance counselor for more information.

CAPRI INSTITUTE – COSMETOLOGY TRAINING Grade 11-12 students may enroll at Capri Institute in Paramus, New Jersey for alternative career education. Students can get certification in Cosmetology and Hairstyling. Tuition incurred is the responsibility of the student/guardian. See your counselor or go to the Capri Institute website: www.capriinstitute.com for more information.

CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITES Assignment of credit for participation in activities that occur all or some of which occur outside of the regular classroom schedule. Grade 9-12 students receive credit in activities that meet or exceed the NJ Core Curriculum Content Standards. The Principal must approve all activities in advance.

DISTANCE LEARNING PROGRAMS - OTHER This option may also be used for students in grades 9-12 as a means of providing long term, medically approved home instruction; remedial courses; and enrichment courses. Courses must be taught by a NJ certified content area teacher. Students will need to successfully pass Mahwah High School’s written assessment in order for credits to be counted. Course credits will count toward graduation requirements.

DISTANCE LEARNING PROGRAMS – INTERNET COURSES An option for earning course credit via Internet courses from an accredited college/university or approved NJ content area certified teacher. Grade 11-12 students may receive credit in courses approved by department supervisors in courses NOT offered at the high school.

EARLY COLLEGE ADMISSIONS PROGRAM Upon completion of grade 11, students at Mahwah High School who have demonstrated ability to pursue advanced academic study, may enroll in full-time college degree courses in lieu of a high school year. Requires recommendations, scores, and admissions offer. Tuition incurred is the responsibility of parent/guardian.

HIGH SCHOOL LEVEL 1 COURSES TAKEN AT RAMAPO RIDGE MIDDLE SCHOOL Middle school students who take high school level courses at Ramapo Ridge Middle School may use those courses to meet prerequisites for advanced courses in particular content areas. In order to receive credit in world languages, students must participate in the STAMP test and score novice-high to receive high school credit. Such approved courses are listed separately on a student’s transcript. Courses taken prior to grade 9 are not included in the GPA or class rank. Course credits will count toward graduation requirements.

LINCOLN TECHNICAL INSTITUTE Grade 11-12 students may enroll at Lincoln Technical Institute in Mahwah, New Jersey for alternative career education. Students can get certification in Automotive Technology, Electronic Systems, Heating, and Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Technology. Tuition incurred is the responsibility of the student/guardian. See your counselor or go to the Lincoln Tech website: www.lincolntech.com for more information.

ON CAMPUS COLLEGE PROGRAM Course ID 1310 (Full Year), 1311 (Half Year) Grade 11-12 students may enroll in college courses at Ramapo College for both college and high school credit. All fees for college credits and any necessary transportation arrangements are the responsibility of the student and his/her family.

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SUMMER ENRICHMENT COURSES FOR ADVANCEMENT Course taken while enrolled in high school for advancement: Districts may utilize performance or competency assessments to approve student completion of programs aimed at meeting or exceeding the NJ Core Curriculum content Standards. Grade 9, 10, 11 students who take high school level courses at an approved school during the summer may use those courses to meet prerequisites for advanced courses in particular content areas. Such approved courses are listed separately on a student’s transcript. Students will need to successfully pass Mahwah High School’s written assessment in order for credits to be counted. Course credits will count toward graduation requirements.

VIRTUAL HIGH SCHOOL COLLABORATIVE ELECTIVES VHS is a non-profit global consortium of over 500 high schools offering innovative online courses. VHS member schools add over 200 courses that may not be part of the local curriculum. Students at member schools can pursue specific areas of interest with other students from across the globe. Imagine classrooms without walls, where students are able to attend their classes 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Imagine students working cooperatively online with others from a wide variety of ethnicities, backgrounds and geographic locations. Mahwah High School will be approving online courses through the Virtual High School Collaborative. These courses will offer students the opportunity to collaborate with students and educators globally in an online environment. Dominick Gliatta, Director of Guidance, is the district's Virtual Learning Coordinator and will coordinate all VHS activities. For more information contact Mr. Gliatta at [email protected] or by telephone at 201-762-2312.

WORLD LANGUAGE EXCHANGE PROGRAMS (Study Abroad) Grade 11 and 12 students may earn credits by participating in an approved and accredited exchange program of study. Prior approval must be obtained from the Principal. All costs are the responsibility of the parent/guardian. For more information contact Mrs. Miriam Lezanski, Supervisor of World Languages, at [email protected] or by telephone at 201-762-2320.

WORLD LANGUAGE PROGRAM (Native Language Assessment) Students participate in a written and oral assessment in a native language on the states approved list for credit. Grade 9-12 native speaking students pass a written and oral proficiency assessment administered by a state approved assessor. Upon passing, students are awarded world language credits counting toward graduation. All fees associated with the proficiency assessment are the responsibility of the parent/guardian. For more information contact Mrs. Miriam Lezanski, Supervisor of World Languages, at [email protected] or by telephone at 201-762-2320.

COMMUNITY SERVICE (OFF-CAMPUS) Course ID 1300 Students may volunteer (without any monetary compensation) outside of their scheduled day in elementary schools, pre-school programs, health/safety related fields, or the community and receive credit. For every 27.5 hours of service, students will earn one credit. A maximum of 10 credits will be applied to graduation requirements. For more information contact Mrs. Stacy Mandel, Program Coordinator, at [email protected] or by telephone at 201- 762-2317.

STRUCTURED LEARNING EXPERIENCE Course ID 1302 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: Non Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

Option Two Programs Prior administrative approval by the department supervisor, director of guidance, and principal must be obtained before enrolling in any option two program any costs incurred as a result of an option two program will be the responsibility of the parent/guardian. The Board of Education will not assume any responsibility for any fees associated with this program.

Structured Learning Experiences – Workplace training, apprenticeships, internships Grade 11 and 12 students may earn up to 20 credits each year through an approved structured learning experience in an area of career interest. To be eligible for a structured learning experience you must be on track for meeting graduation requirements. Students are required to maintain and submit a portfolio/journal in order to demonstrate that they have met the goals and objectives of the experience. Contact person: Joseph Cozine at [email protected]

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NEWSPAPER Course ID 1309 Pre-requisites: none Weight: Non Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

The Newspaper/Community Service program is a 5 credit course designed for students who contribute to the creation of the Mahwah High School newspaper called “The Tom-Tom”. This program is mandatory for editors and other key leadership positions responsible for this publication.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION (ATHLETIC PARTICIPATION) Course ID 0905-0907 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: JV/Varsity Team Member Non Ranked Criteria for admissions: Meets athletic eligibility criteria for NJSIAA Course Length: 1 or more and the district athletic seasons

Grade 9 - 12 student-athletes may earn physical education credits by participating on Mahwah High School junior varsity and varsity athletic teams during any athletic season. Student must meet the eligibility criteria of the NJSIAA and the district. The student must attend and successfully complete the appropriate program requirements in order to receive credit. Credit will be awarded upon verification of attendance and a passing grade indicated by the Athletic Director. Students who are unable to complete the athletic season for any reason must immediately notify the Athletic Director and their guidance counselor so that they may be scheduled for a physical education class. Physical education is a state mandated course required for graduation. Failure to successfully meet this requirement will affect your ability to receive a high school diploma and participate in graduation exercises. Students electing this option must report to a PE study hall or other approved course during this period. In addition, students must complete one required marking period of health education. Students with senior grade level status are not permitted additional off campus privileges during this period if enrolled in this program without prior administrative approval. For more information contact Mr. Roger Pelletier, Athletic Director/Supervisor of Physical Education at [email protected] or by telephone at 201-762-2331.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION (INDEPENDENT) Course ID 0908 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Non Ranked Criteria for admissions: Prior administrative approval Course Length: Semester or Year

Grade 9 - 12 students may earn credits by participating in an approved and accredited program of study such as dance, gymnastics, swimming, etc. that meets a minimum of 150 minutes per week. For every 27.5 hours or service, students will earn one credit. In addition, students must complete one required marking period of health education at Mahwah High School. Prior approval must be obtained for the Principal. All costs are the responsibility of the parent/guardian. For more information contact Mr. Roger Pelletier, Athletic Director/Supervisor of Physical Education at [email protected] or by telephone at 201-762-2331.

STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION Course ID 1301 Pre-requisites: none Weight: Non Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

The Student Council/Community Service program is a 5 credit course that develops leadership skills, promotes community service to the Mahwah School system and the Mahwah community at large, builds positive character traits, and promotes school spirit. It is a mandatory class for executive student council officers and an elective for some senior class officers.

YEARBOOK Course ID 1308 Pre-requisites: none Weight: Non Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

The Yearbook/Community Service program is a 5 credit course designed for students who contribute to the creation of the Mahwah High School yearbook. This program is mandatory for editors and other key leadership positions responsible for this publication.

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Dual Enrollment Program - Earning College Credit

BERGEN COMMUNITY COLLEGE – DUAL ENROLLMENT PROGRAM Bergen Community College’s dual enrollment program provides an opportunity for high school students to earn college credit by taking college-level courses at their high school. The dual enrollment program:  Is for high school students who have demonstrated academic readiness; and have received the recommendation of their guidance counselor, school administrator and parents.  Fulfills high school requirements and offers college credit upon successful completion;  Is taught by certified teachers who meet college-level educational standards;  Features transferable credits to most New Jersey colleges/universities and many out-of-state schools;  Elevates high school courses to a challenging level of learning;  Is structured to meet the content and criteria of college courses;  Is overseen by the College’s staff and faculty, who work closely with high school officials to ensure quality and integrity.

Courses: Evolution of American Music Music Theory I AP Music Theory Drawing Fundamentals (Visual Arts) Painting and Drawing Digital Photography

FAIRLEIGH DICKINSON UNIVERSITY – MIDDLE COLLEGE PROGRAM Fairleigh Dickinson University's Middle College program gives college-bound juniors and seniors the opportunity to experience university-style learning before they graduate high school. Founded in 1984, the Middle College program is affiliated with more than eighty high schools throughout New Jersey, providing over 2,800 students the opportunity to get a jumpstart on their college education. Registration forms and additional information will be provided by the teacher.

Courses: Honors Accounting 2 Education As A Career Film as Literature French IV – Honors French V – Honors Spanish IV Honors Spanish V – Honors Creative Writing British Literature –Honors (Gr. 11)

SETON HALL UNIVERSITY - PROJECT ACCELERATION Grade 11-12 students receive both high school and college credit if they meet the criteria for participation in Project Acceleration. Parents/guardians pay a fee directly to Seton Hall University in order to receive credit. Presently we offer this program in social studies and world languages. All fees for college credits are the responsibility of the student and his/her family. For more information contact Mrs. Miriam Lezanski, Supervisor of World Languages, at [email protected] or by telephone at 201-762-2320.

Since 1978, Project Acceleration, a concurrent enrollment program within the College of Arts and Sciences at Seton Hall University, has allowed high school students in New Jersey and New York to get a head start on their university careers. Over the course of their high school career, students can earn up to 22 credits from Seton Hall University for approved courses taken in their secondary schools. Subjects include mathematics, computer science, biology, chemistry, physics, economics, psychology, political science, sociology, history, communication, English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Latin, Greek, Japanese, music, art, and education. The college credits earned through Project

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Acceleration are accepted at more than 200 colleges and universities. There are currently 70 high schools offering Project Acceleration courses and approximately 3000 students participate each year. http://artsci.shu.edu/projectacceleration/about.htm

Juniors and seniors may register for no more than 2 courses per semester. They may take up to 16 credits in an academic year, but no more than 22 credits during their high school studies. To enroll in the program, students must fill out a registration form and enclose a check payable to Seton Hall University. The Project Acceleration tuition costs and course offerings are listed on the high school website under dual enrollment programs.

Courses: Honors English 12 Global Pers. On Ethics and Morality-Study of Lit. Enduring Myths Multivariable Calculus Digital Film and Theory

WORLD LANGUAGE AMERICAN COUNCIL ON EDUCATION – COLLEGE CREDIT FOR ORAL PROFICIENCY

The American Council on Education (ACE) is a college credit recommendation service that has been representing community colleges and four-year institutions since 1918. ACE has made a recommendation to affiliated institutions to grant credit based on how proficient they are in a world language. To determine language proficiency, students can take an Oral Proficiency Interview (OPI) with the American Council of Teachers Foreign Languages (ACTFL) testing office. The cost of the assessment is listed on the high school website under dual enrollment programs.

It is important to emphasize that a student’s level of language proficiency is dependent on the length of instruction. Therefore, we encourage students to select a language in 6th grade that they will continue to learn through high school. We encourage interested grade 12 students who have completed at least four years of a high school language to consider taking the Oral Proficiency Interview.

For a list of affiliated colleges please go to http://www2.acenet.edu/programs/ccrs/adult_learners/.

As a convenience, this examination will be administered at Mahwah High School in the spring. If you have any questions regarding proficiency, registration, testing or our program, please contact Mrs. Miriam Lezanski, Supervisor of World Languages, at [email protected] or by telephone at 201-762-2320.

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Performing Arts Courses

SYMPHONIC BAND/LESSONS Course ID 0711 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 0 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

CREDITS: 3.0 - 5.0 – This course meets during zero period on a regular basis for full rehearsals and sectionals. Students learn the fundamentals and finer points of technique, balance, blend and musical communication through performance. Instrumental ensemble is generally open to all woodwind, brass, percussion and string bass players, and represents the school in concerts both on and off campus. Students are required to attend weekly lessons, which are given during the regular school day on a rotating basis so that each subject is missed no more than three times per semester.

*Students participating in Band only will receive 5.0 credits. Students participating in Band and Chorus will receive 3.0 credits for each course. Students taking either course (for 3.0 credits) will have the same attendance requirements as a semester course.

CHOIR/LESSONS Course ID 0712 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 0 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

CREDITS: 3.0 - 5.0 – Concert choir meets during zero period on a regular basis for full rehearsals and sectionals. The course is designed for all students, especially those who have had singing experience. Fundamentals are stressed, including tone quality, blend and choral technique. The students are exposed to various music styles ranging from classical to modern. Students are required at attend weekly vocal lessons, which are given during the regular school day on a rotating basis so that each subject is missed no more than three times per semester.

* Students participating in Choir only will receive 5.0 credits. Students participating in Choir as well as Band or Orchestra will receive 3 credits. Student taking the course for 3.0 credits will have the same attendance requirements as a semester course.

MARCHING BAND/COLOR GUARD 1-4 (OPTION 2) Course ID 0719-0722 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 0 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

CREDITS: 2.5 – Marching Band/Color Guard is a performance course under the Option 2 program. This group performs at all high school football games, pep rallies, and various school functions. The group also performs for competitive festivals and parades. The Color Guard is a non-instrumental portion of the band for dancers and flag/rifle/saber twirlers. This course meets for full band or sectional practice two evenings per week from September through November and also meets on Fridays or Saturdays before each football game. The course also meets in the spring for parade rehearsals. All Students must participate in a six-day marching band camp in mid-August which is held at Mahwah High School. Through this course, students will learn the fundamental techniques of marching, musicianship, and performance skills. For Marching Band, previous instrumental experience is recommended but not required. For Color Guard, previous dance experience is recommended and prior experience in flag twirling is not required.

EVOLUTION OF AMERICAN MUSIC Course ID 0717 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Semester

Evolution of American Music is a semester course, which will be interesting for all students, whether or not they have had prior musical experience. The purpose of this course is to introduce music as an art form and as a means of expression. The main focus is on the non-technical aspects of music, although some elements of form and structure are introduced in order to give the students a foundation upon which to place the rest of the information. Although not a prerequisite, this course also serves as an excellent primer for the Music Theory I course, which is offered on the 29

same track in the spring. This course will follow the development of popular music in the United States from the advent of Jazz in the 1890's through current trends in popular music. In addition to studying how American popular music developed and evolved, we will examine how technology, race, and culture both influenced popular music and were influenced by popular music.

MUSIC THEORY I Course ID 0718 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Semester

How Music Works (Music Theory I) is a Spring semester course which is open to all students, and which will stimulate the creative potential of even those students with prior performance experience, while being “user friendly” to those with not musical experience at all. Students will be introduced to the mechanics of music theory, elements of harmony, and recognition of pitch intervals and melodies. Based in practicality, one of the main goals of this course is to have each student learn the skills necessary to compose a simple song with harmonic and rhythmic accompaniment. How Music Works, although free-standing, is offered on the same track as the Music Appreciation course, Music in Our Lives, which can serve as an excellent primer.

STRING ORCHESTRA/LESSONS Course ID 0716 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 0 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

CREDITS: 3.0 – 5.0 – This course meets during zero period on a regular basis for full rehearsals and sectionals. Students learn the fundamentals and finer points of technique, balance, blend, and musical communication through performance. It is open to all experienced string players. The String Ensemble includes weekly lessons, given during the regular school day on a rotating basis so that each subject is missed no more than three times per semester.

* Students participating in String Orchestra only will receive 5.0 credits. Students participating in String Orchestra and Chorus will receive 3 credits. Students taking the course for 3.0 credits will have the same attendance requirements as a semester course.

JAZZ BAND 1-4 (OPTION TWO) Course ID 0723-0726 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 0 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This is a co-curricular performance course, under the Option Two program, that will contain the same musical elements as the Symphonic Band Course of Study. In addition students will develop the ability to improvise and perform the various jazz styles (swing, Latin, funk, rock etc,). The Jazz Band is open to all students at Mahwah High school who qualify by audition. Students will apply all the essential elements of music performance required for Symphonic Band along with the elements unique to jazz style. Attendance at all scheduled performances is a requirement of this course, along with an additional 2 hours of rehearsal each week during the months of November, December, January, February, March and April.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT MUSIC THEORY Course ID 0730 Open to Grades 10,11,12 Pre-requisites: Music Theory I, Music Appreciation Weight: 10 Course Length: Year Criteria for Admissions: 1. Music Theory with a grade of 85% or higher 2. Music Appreciation or comparable experience 3. Teacher recommendation

Credits: 5- This course is designed to build on the skills learned in Music Theory I and to prepare students to take the AP Music Theory Exam. Students will be introduced to basic musical language and grammar, as well as ear training and dictation skills required for sight reading and transcription of musical literature. Students will learn to recognize the development of music from a historical and cultural perspective and to extend their musical awareness beyond the familiar. The class meets for 55 minutes 3-4 times per week, depending on the rotation schedule.

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Physical Education Courses

PHYSICAL EDUCATION / HEALTH / DRIVER EDUCATION PE / HEALTH 9 Course ID 0911 (Every Day No Lab) Grade 9 PE / HEALTH 9 Course ID 0913 (Science Lab) Grade 9 PE / DRIVER EDUCATION 10 Course ID 0929 (Every Day No Lab) Grade 10 PE / DRIVER EDUCATION 10 Course ID 0928 (Science Lab) Grade 10 PE / HEALTH 11 Course ID 0931 (Every Day No Lab) Grade 11 PE / HEALTH 11 Course ID 0933 (Science Lab) Grade 11 PE /HEALTH 12 Course ID 0944 (Every Day No Lab) Grade 12 PE / HEALTH 12 Course ID 0943 (Science Lab) Grade 12 PE / STUDY HALL Course ID 0946 (Medically approved by nurse)

Physical education and health are important requirements for graduation. Students attend health class during one of the four marking periods in their junior and senior years, and participate in elective physical education activities the remaining three marking periods. During the sophomore year, students participate in physical education activities all four marking periods. Ninth grade students participate in one marking period of Health, and one marking period of weight/strength training, with participation in elective activity units for the remaining two marking periods. The course grade is calculated by averaging the four marking period grades.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION The major emphasis of the physical education program is physical fitness. Formalized physical fitness testing occurs twice a year – in the fall and in the spring – through administration of the President’s Physical Fitness Program. Physical fitness testing is used as a means of assessment for student strength, agility, speed and endurance. Throughout the year cardiovascular conditioning, flexibility and strength development are emphasized. Physical education classes focus on lifetime activities, team sports, weight training, and overall physical fitness. The department faculty offers twenty-eight elective physical activity units at various intervals throughout the school year which include soccer, yoga, badminton, tennis, flag football, wallyball, indoor lacrosse, volleyball, softball, track, and other activities. Successful completion of four years of physical education is mandated by the State of New Jersey for the high school diploma.

HEALTH The health curriculum represents a portion of the district-wide health program spanning grades K-12. There are four major units covered in each of the marking periods of health (grades 11 and 12): health enhancing behavior; personal, interpersonal, and life skills; alcohol, tobacco and other drugs education. In the junior year the health program also includes First Aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation training. Ninth grade students attend Foundations of Physical Education (F.O.P.E.), a course which incorporates a framework for future physical education classes, as well as topics related to overall health and well-being, including basic anatomy and physiology, nutrition and exercise, the consequences of a sedentary lifestyle, and the effects of drugs and medications on the body; human sexuality and family life.

DRIVER EDUCATION This course is divided into two major sections. The first half of the course deals with automobile maintenance, insurance, motorcycle safety, and map reading, while the second half of the course is devoted to preparing the student for the New Jersey State Driver’s Examination. Each student is given a state manual in preparation for this exam. The major topics in the manual are: permits and licenses, safety equipment, penalties for violations, road signs, defensive driving tips, and accident prevention. The teacher explains and expands on these topics, and then administers the New Jersey State written Driver’s Examination towards the end of the semester. Additionally, drug resistance education is integrated into this course, through the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) Program, in concert with trained police officers from the Mahwah Police Department.

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PHYSICAL EDUCATION (ATHLETIC PARTICIPATION) Course ID 0905-0907 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: JV/Varsity Team Member Non Ranked Criteria for admissions: Meets athletic eligibility criteria for NJSIAA Course Length: 1 or more and the district athletic seasons

Grade 9 - 12 student-athletes may earn physical education credits by participating on Mahwah High School junior varsity and varsity athletic teams during any athletic season. Student must meet the eligibility criteria of the NJSIAA and the district. The student must attend, complete journal entries, and successfully complete the appropriate program requirements in order to receive credit. Credit will be awarded upon verification of attendance and a passing grade indicated by the Athletic Director. Students who are unable to complete the athletic season for any reason must immediately notify the Athletic Director and their guidance counselor so that they may be scheduled for a physical education class. Physical education is a state mandated course required for graduation. Failure to successfully meet this requirement will affect your ability to receive a high school diploma and participate in graduation exercises. Students electing this option must report to a PE study hall or other approved course during this period. In addition, students must complete one required marking period of health education. Students with senior grade level status are not permitted additional off campus privileges during this period if enrolled in this program without prior administrative approval. For more information contact Mr. Roger Pelletier, Athletic Director/Supervisor of Physical Education at [email protected] or by telephone at 201-762-2331.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION (INDEPENDENT) Course ID 0908 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Non Ranked Criteria for admissions: Prior administrative approval Course Length: Semester or Year

Grade 9 - 12 students may earn credits by participating in an approved and accredited program of study such as dance, gymnastics, swimming, etc. that meets a minimum of 150 minutes per week and is aligned with 2014 NJCCCS for Physical Education. The student must attend, complete journal entries, and successfully complete the appropriate program requirements in order to receive credit. For every 27.5 hours of participation, students will earn one credit. In addition, students must complete one required marking period of health education at Mahwah High School. Prior approval must be obtained for the Principal. All costs are the responsibility of the parent/guardian. For more information contact Mr. Roger Pelletier, Athletic Director/Supervisor of Physical Education at [email protected] or by telephone at 201-762-2331.

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Science Courses

BIOLOGY: COLLEGE PREP (CP) Course ID 0501 Open to Grades 9 Co-requisite: Algebra 1 CP Weight: 0 Pre-requisites: none Course Length: Year

This course of study was designed to transition students from the middle school science program to the high school laboratory science course. This is a college preparatory laboratory science course which requires students to not only master life science content knowledge, but also develops the science and engineering practices and cross-cutting concepts as outlined in the Next Generation Science Standards. This course introduces students to the fundamental principles, laws, and concepts of biology. The major themes include organization and development, matter and energy transformations, interdependence, heredity and reproduction, and evolution and diversity. Academic activities are designed to enhance critical thinking, note-taking and organizational skills. Students will engage in physical manipulation of authentic systems, interact with simulations and authentic data, and engage in scientific argumentation. This course has a double lab period every four days. Laboratory investigations play a large role in the development of concepts and application of mathematical skills to real world data.

BIOLOGY: COLLEGE PREP ENRICHED (CPE) Course ID 0524 Open to Grades 9 Weight: 3 Course Length: Year

This level is offered to the high-achieving student with a focus on developing the knowledge, skills, and habits of mind necessary to master a rigorous course of study. The course challenges students to transition from the middle school science program to the high school science program. Student will increase their knowledge base and understanding of the natural world and how it functions by engaging with the three dimensions outlined in the Next Generation Science Standards. This course introduces students to the fundamental principles, laws, and concepts of biology. The major themes include organization and development, matter and energy transformations, interdependence, heredity and reproduction, and evolution and diversity. Students will also be able to develop their ability to think critically, problem solve, communicate, and collaborate. Students will hone their skills in conducting laboratory investigations, analyzing data, and drawing conclusions based on scientific evidence. It is expected that students will be active participants to use authentic data to engage in scientific argumentation. This course has a double lab period every four days. Laboratory investigations play a large role in the development of concepts and application of mathematical skills to real world data.

BIOLOGY: HONORS Course ID 0526 Open to Grades 9 Criteria for admissions: See Honors Criteria Weight: 8 Co-requisites: Geometry Honors Course Length: Year

This level is offered to the intrinsically motivated student with a strong interest in and aptitude for the sciences. At this level, students are expected to engage in independent learning and to be able to apply and transfer concepts between units and courses. This course is designed for 9th grade students who can perform at an advanced level and has the ability to apply mathematical concepts and reasoning essential to a comprehensive scientific understanding of the Next Generation Science Standards. Students are invited into this course based on superior past performance in 8th grade. Students are given the opportunity to work at a higher and more in depth level of study.

Topics cover scientific-inquiry, basic chemistry and biochemistry, cell structure and function, energy relationships, genetics and molecular genetics, evolution and ecology. Additional topics include: the five-kingdom classification systems, and comparative anatomy and physiology. This course stresses the development of laboratory skills, critical thinking and problem solving which are consistent with the demands of the 21st Century and College Board’s Advanced Placement Program.

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CHEMISTRY: COLLEGE PREP (CP) Course ID 0529 Open to Grades 10 Pre-requisites: Biology CP or Biology CPE Weight: 0 Co-requisites: Geometry CP Course Length: Year

This is a college preparatory laboratory science course which requires students to not only master chemistry content knowledge, but also develops the science and engineering practices and cross-cutting concepts as outlined in the Next Generation Science Standards. This course introduces students to the fundamental principles, laws, and concepts of chemistry. The major topics are matter, atomic theory, electron theory, periodic law, chemical bonds, formula writing, equations, gas laws, chemical mathematics, solutions, and acids and bases. Academic activities are designed to enhance critical thinking, note-taking and organizational skills. Students will engage in physical manipulation of authentic systems, interact with simulations and authentic data, and engage in scientific argumentation. This course has a double lab period every four days. Laboratory investigations play a large role in the development of concepts and application of mathematical skills to real world data. The students will receive a comprehensive background in chemistry and will be prepared for further studies in science.

CHEMISTRY: COLLEGE PREP ENRICHED (CPE) Course ID 0531 Open to Grades 10 Weight: 3 Pre-requisites: Biology CPE or Biology Honors; Algebra I, Geometry, or Honors Geometry Co-requisites: Geometry CPE, Algebra 2 CPE, or Honors Algebra 2 Course Length: Year

This level is offered to the high-achieving student with a focus on developing the knowledge, skills, and habits of mind necessary to master a rigorous course of study. The course challenges students apply concepts learned in biology to the understanding of chemical principles. Student will increase their knowledge base and understanding of the natural world and how it functions by engaging with the three dimensions outlined in the Next Generation Science Standards. This course is designed to give the college-bound student an overview of the basic principles and laws of chemistry, emphasizing the application of chemistry to the issues of our daily lives. Major topics include: atomic and molecular structure, chemical reactions, solutions, states of matter, and acid-base theory. Students will also be able to develop their ability to think critically, problem solve, communicate, and collaborate. Students will hone their skills in conducting laboratory investigations, analyzing data, and drawing conclusions based on scientific evidence. It is expected that students will be active participants to use authentic data to engage in scientific argumentation. This course has a double lab period every four days. Laboratory investigations play a large role in the development of concepts and application of mathematical skills to real world data.

CHEMISTRY: HONORS Course ID 0538 Open to Grades 10 Weight: 8 Criteria for admissions: See Honors Criteria Course Length: Year Pre-requisites: Biology CPE or Biology Honors; Honors Geometry Co-requisites: Algebra 2 CPE or Honors Algebra 2

This level is offered to the intrinsically motivated student with a strong interest in and aptitude for the sciences. At this level, students are expected to engage in independent learning and to be able to apply and transfer concepts between the biology and chemistry courses. This course is designed for 10th grade students who can perform at an advanced level and has the ability to apply mathematical concepts and reasoning essential to a comprehensive scientific understanding of the Next Generation Science Standards. Students are given the opportunity to work at a higher and more in depth level of study.

This chemistry course emphasizes quantitative chemical relationships and the application of mathematical models to describe chemical principals. Emphasized throughout this course are the principles of structure and matter-energy relationships, the mole concept, chemical bonding, acid-base theory, equilibrium, and redox equations. This course stresses the development of laboratory skills, critical thinking and problem solving which are consistent with the demands of the 21st Century and College Board’s Advanced Placement Program. Students exiting this course are encouraged to take the AP Chemistry course.

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PHYSICS: COLLEGE PREP (CP) Course ID 0540 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: Chemistry CP or Chemistry CPE Weight: 0 Co-requisites: Algebra 2 CP Course Length: Year

This course of study was designed to transition students from the chemistry to the physics science course. This is a college preparatory laboratory science course which requires students to not only master physical science content knowledge, but also develops the science and engineering practices and cross-cutting concepts as outlined in the Next Generation Science Standards The program has been developed around themes to introduce fundamental principles, laws and concepts in physics. The major topics include energy, motion, force, mechanics, heat, electricity, optics, and nuclear energy. A conceptual approach will be used, and emphasis placed on data collection and analysis. This course has a double laboratory period every four days. Laboratory activities will enhance students’ comprehension of the interrelationships between energy and matter to everyday occurrences Academic activities are designed to enhance critical thinking, note-taking and organizational skills. Students will engage in physical manipulation of authentic systems, interact with simulations and authentic data, and engage in scientific argumentation.

PHYSICS: COLLEGE PREP ENRICHED (CPE) Course ID 0541 Open to Grades 11, 12 Weight: 3 Pre-requisites: Chemistry CPE or Chemistry Honors; Geometry or Honors Geometry Co-requisites: Algebra 2 CPE, Pre-calculus, Honors Pre-Calculus Course Length: Year

This level is offered to the high-achieving student with a focus on developing the knowledge, skills, and habits of mind necessary to master a rigorous course of study. The course challenges students integrate concepts learned in biology and chemistry to the understanding of physics principles. Student will increase their knowledge base and understanding of the natural world and how it functions by engaging with the three dimensions outlined in the Next Generation Science Standards. This course is designed to give the college-bound student an overview of the basic principles and laws of physics, emphasizing with an emphasis on conceptual understanding of essential topics without requiring the use of advanced mathematics. Physics gives the students the opportunity to apply mathematics to develop problem-solving skills to real world problems. Major topics include motion, Newtonian mechanics, energy-matter relationships, electricity & magnetism, and wave theory.

Students will also be able to develop their ability to think critically, problem solve, communicate, and collaborate. Students will hone their skills in conducting laboratory investigations, analyzing data, and drawing conclusions based on scientific evidence. It is expected that students will be active participants to use authentic data to engage in scientific argumentation. This course has a double lab period every four days. Laboratory investigations play a large role in the development of concepts and application of mathematical skills to real world data

HONORS PHYSICS Course ID 0503 Open to Grades 11 Weight: 8 Criteria for admissions: See Honors Criteria Course Length: Year Pre-requisites: Chemistry CPE or Chemistry Honors; Algebra 2 CPE or Honors Algebra 2 Co-requisites: Pre-calculus, Honors Pre-Calculus

This level is offered to the intrinsically motivated student with a strong interest in and aptitude for the sciences. At this level, students are expected to engage in independent learning and to be able to apply and transfer concepts from the biology, chemistry and physics courses. This course is designed for 11th grade students who can perform at an advanced level and has the ability to apply mathematical concepts and reasoning essential to a comprehensive scientific understanding of the Next Generation Science Standards. Students are given the opportunity to work at a higher and more in depth level of study.

The honors level is an in-depth study of physics, emphasizing quantitative relationships in physics and the application of mathematical models to describe physical phenomena. Additional topics will include: rotational equilibrium and dynamics, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, interference and diffraction, atomic physics and subatomic physics. Laboratory work will be more quantitative and analytical than the Physics course. This course stresses the development of laboratory skills, critical thinking and problem solving which are consistent with the demands of the 21st Century and College Board’s Advanced Placement Program. Students exiting this course are encouraged to take the AP Physics C course.

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ADVANCED PLACEMENT BIOLOGY Course ID 0561 Open to Grades 11,12 Pre-requisites: Biology CPE/Biology Honors; Chemistry CPE/Chemistry Honors Weight: 10 Criteria for admissions: Advanced Placement Criteria Course Length: Year 1. Mid-year average of 85% in the present honors course; mid-year grade of 90% in the present academic science course. 2. Recommendation of the present science teacher.

The advanced placement biology course is designed to be the equivalent of a college introductory biology course taken by biology majors. The content of this course follows the College Entrance Examination Board syllabus. Major topics include: biological chemistry, thermodynamics & cellular energetics, classical & molecular genetics, evolution, and ecology.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT CHEMISTRY Course ID 0535 Open to Grades 11,12 Pre-requisites: Chemistry CPE/Chemistry Honors; Physics CPE/Physics Honors Weight: 10 Co-requisites: Honors Physics Course Length: Year Criteria for admissions: Advanced Placement Criteria 1. Mid-year average of 85% in the present honors course; mid-year grade of 90% in the present academic science course. 2. Recommendation of the present science teacher.

The advanced placement chemistry course is designed to be the equivalent of a college introductory chemistry course taken by chemistry majors. The content of this course follows the College Entrance Examination Board syllabus. Major topics include: atomic structure, periodicity, stoichiometry, gas laws, thermodynamics & thermochemistry, bonding, kinetics, acid & bases theories, and electrochemistry.

ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY Course ID 0532 Open to Grades 11,12 Weight: 3 Course Length: Year Pre-requisites: Biology: CP, CPE or Honors; Chemistry CP, CPE or Honors) Physics (11th grade students can take concurrently with physics CPE or physics honors) *cannot be used toward 3-year science graduation requirement

This full year course provides a comprehensive study of the anatomy and physiology of the human organism. Students will be able to demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the principles of Anatomy, Physiology, and their interrelationships. The course emphasize structure and function using the systemic approach in which the body systems such as the cardiovascular system, nervous system, respiratory system, for example, are explored individually following the introductory material. Emphasis is placed on how systems integrate with each other and how each contributes to homeostasis, a steady state of body functioning. In addition, real world topics will be included to prepare students who may be pursuing careers in the sports sciences, exercise physiology, kinesiology, physical therapy, occupational therapy, nutrition and nursing. Since it is necessary that the student has completed Biology and Chemistry with a strong understanding of concepts, the work and expectation in this course builds to a much higher level than that of the an introductory high school course.

Laboratory activities, as in all sciences at Mahwah High School, play a large role in developing concepts and the learning process. The laboratory environment enables students to develop group dynamics, organizational skills, and deductive reasoning. All of these become extremely important in Anatomy & Physiology, as the intensity of laboratory work requires as much precision and cares as the complexity of the human body systems.

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE Course ID 0549 Open to Grades 11,12 Weight: 3 Course Length: Year Pre-requisites: Biology: CP, CPE or Honors; Chemistry CP, CPE or Honors Physics (11th grade students can take concurrently with physics CPE or physics honors) *cannot be used toward 3-year science graduation requirement

Environmental Science is an elective science designed to help students understand the environment around them and to become informed global citizens. Students will engage in hands-on, project based learning to identify environmental 36

problems and propose solutions to these problems. In addition, students will conduct inquiry-based labs to test soil, air and water quality in the Mahwah community, among other activities. Students will also explore sustainable solutions to environmental problems through such activities as field visits within the New York and New Jersey area, farm-to-table meals using the school garden and redesigning structures and landscapes to be more energy efficient.

This course is designed to challenge students with topics such as ecological systems, biodiversity, habitat destruction, invasive species, land use, industrial agriculture, pollution, soil degradation, acid precipitation, ozone depletion, population trends and resource distribution, sustainable practices and climate change. Students will also explore renewable and nonrenewable energy sources as well as environmentally supportive business practices. Students will learn about the statutory and regulatory framework of environmental law on the municipal, state, federal and international levels.

FORENSIC SCIENCE Course ID 0550 Open to Grade 12 Weight: 3 Course Length: Semester Pre-requisites: Biology: CP, CPE or Honors; Chemistry: CP, CPE or Honors, Physics: CP, CPE or Honors *cannot be used toward 3-year science graduation requirement

The Forensic Science Course is designed as a 4th year Science elective. This course will acquaint the students with the work and goals of the forensic scientist. The students will use problem solving strategies during inquiry based lab settings to analyze real life situations. This course will familiarize the students with the broad range of careers available in the field of Forensic Science

This course is designed to challenge students with topics such as fingerprinting, DNA analysis, blood typing and spattering, trajectories (for ballistics as well as blood spattering) comparative anatomy, and chemical analysis of drugs, poisons, and trace evidence and the dynamics of Physics. Students will learn about the careers involved with Forensic Science and will play mock roles as experts in the field to solve crimes. They will learn team work in solving mock crimes and have a chance to change their roles as the course progresses. The course includes one double laboratory period every four days. Emphasis is placed on scientific-inquiry, appropriate technology, and hands-on activity.

MICROBIOLOGY Course ID 0533 Open to Grades 12 Weight: 3 Course Length: Semester Pre-requisites: Biology: CP, CPE or Honors; Chemistry: CP, CPE or Honors, Physics: CP, CPE or Honors *cannot be used toward 3-year science graduation requirement

Microbiology is a semester course that is the study of microbes. It is also a study in how these organisms affect and interact with the human immune system. The focus is on disease, how disease affects organ systems, and the impact that disease has had on society. This course is geared for students interested in pursuing careers in medicine, and or other health related fields.

The course includes one double laboratory period every four days. Emphasis is placed on scientific-inquiry, the use of appropriate technology, and hands-on activity.

STEAM: DESIGN AND RESEARCH Course ID 0551 Open to Grades 10, 11,12 Weight: 3 Course Length: Semester Pre-requisites: None. Co-requisites: Must be enrolled in grade appropriate science for 10th or 11th grade (chemistry/physics).

The STEAM Design and Research course will focus on applying engineering, science, math, and technology to solve complex, open-ended problems in a real-world context. Student teams will work through the process of defining and solving a problem, not on getting the “right” answer. They learn how to apply STEAM knowledge skills, and habits of minds through innovation. Each task will hone in on different aspects of the design process or cycle. Building upon these skills, the student will engage in the ideas behind science and engineering practices to familiarize them with the initial processes behind doing authentic research. The aim is to build a foundation for students that allows them to examine original identified research opportunities in the natural science and engineering programs that hone 37

the students’ investigative skill and prepare them for academic endeavors. The culmination of this course includes a research paper and presentation in a symposium style.

The course includes one double laboratory period every four days. Emphasis is placed on scientific-inquiry, the use of appropriate technology, and hands-on activity.

HONORS STEAM CAPSTONE: INDEPENDENT RESEARCH/INTERNSHIP Course ID 0552 Open to Grades 12 Weight: 8 Pre-requisites: STEM: Design and Process and STEM: Research Course Length: Year Application process through department supervisor.

This is an elective course for students who have successfully completed the STEAM Design & Research course. Successful students in this course will be self-motivated, independent learners and demonstrate a strong interest in STEAM related fields.

The Independent Research option requires that students research and design a Capstone Project under the guidance of a faculty-assigned mentor. The mentor will emphasize the goals and expectations for the Research Project and meet with the student for a total of 4-6 hours during the duration of the course. The research project must be from a STEAM related field and emphasize the ultimate implication of the research in the advancement of science and engineering.

Alternatively, the Independent Internship option will require that students secure an internship and spend, on average, 2-3 hours a week with their university/industry based mentor. Students will meet with their mentors to discuss the ongoing research and the goals and expectations for the internship. Working with their guidance counselor and the science supervisor, students will secure a mentor by July 15, 2017.

The course will culminate with a Capstone paper and presentation that the student will make to a committee including high school students, teachers, and their research mentor.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT PHYSICS C: ELECTRICITY AND MAGNETISM / MECHANICS Co-requisites: Honors Calculus or AP Calculus Course ID 0548 Open to Grades 12 Pre-requisites: Chemistry CPE /Chemistry Honors; Physics CPE/ Physics Honors Weight: 10 Criteria for admissions: Advanced Placement Criteria 1. Mid-year average of 85% in the present honors course; mid-year grade of 90% in the present academic science course. 2. Recommendation of the present science teacher.

The advanced placement physics course is designed to be the equivalent of a college introductory calculus based physics course taken by science majors. The content of this course follows the College Entrance Examination Board syllabus. Major topics include: mechanics, electricity & magnetism, waves & optics, and modern physics.

ACT SCIENCE Course ID 0482 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admission: none Course Length: Embedded in ACT MATH and ACT ELA

The Science ACT course is directly aligned with the New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standards in Science and the Next Generation Science Standards. This course is designed to enhance student scores on the American College Test (ACT) with a concentration on test taking skills. The structure of the ACT, along with the implications of how the test is graded, will be discussed. Understanding and fluency, along with application of scientific concepts, skills and practices will be addressed and strengthened. Students will learn and practice effective test taking strategies that include but are not limited to: appropriate pacing, increased focus, use of an appropriate calculator in appropriate sections, analyzing data in various forms, extrapolating information from graphs and charts, and use of scientific argumentation in data analysis. Students will learn to work independently, as well as cooperatively in pairs and small groups. Both verbal and written communication of ideas will be emphasized. The course is intended to motivate students of all ability levels to develop their problem solving and test taking skills. 38

Social Studies Courses

WORLD HISTORY Course ID 0310 Open to Grades 9 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This program of study is the first of three courses required for high school graduation. It is designed to provide students with knowledge of the major events, people, and countries of the past, not only of the West but also of the Afro-Asian world. Completing this course will help prepare students for the next two years of U.S. History and ultimately give them a sense of global awareness needed as citizens of our nation.

HONORS WORLD HISTORY Course ID 0345 Open to Grades 9 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 8 Criteria for admissions: See Honors Criteria. Course Length: Year

See World History. Students are identified and invited into this level based on superior performance in 8th grade social studies and by teacher recommendation. At this level, learners are given the opportunity to work at a higher and more rigorous pace.

GENERAL WORLD HISTORY Course ID 0306 Open to Grades 9 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 0 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

See World History. Placement in this level is based on performance in 8th grade social studies and teacher recommendation. This course is specifically designed to assist students who need help developing reading and writing skills so that they can succeed in the second and third year of the social studies sequence.

US HISTORY 1 Course ID 0321 Open to Grades 10, 11 Pre-requisites: World History Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This is the second required course of the three year sequence. This main objective is to provide the pupils with a solid factual and conceptual foundation of our country’s growth from a small agricultural nation to an industrial giant while preserving the basic rights found in our Constitution. The content of the course includes: westward expansion, growth of business and labor, wars fought by the U.S., and U.S. foreign policy up to the 1890’s.

HONORS US HISTORY 1/Pre-AP Course ID 0325 Open to Grades 10, 11,12 Pre-requisites: World History or Honors World History Weight: 8 Criteria for admissions: See Honors Criteria. Course Length: Year

Admission into this course is based on the Honors Criteria as outlined in the Program of Studies and by teacher recommendation. Since this course also is the prerequisite for AP US History, students will begin their journey with an intensive review of Pre-Colonial America and will pause at the end of the 19th century by studying topics such as the Urbanization of Cities and the conquest of The Great West. Learners will engage in more extensive reading and writing activities, primary source document analysis, and projects specifically designed to challenge the academically motivated student.

GENERAL US HISTORY 1 Course ID 0328 Open to Grades 10, 11,12 Pre-requisites: World History Weight: 0 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

See US History I. This course is designed for students who continue to demonstrate the need for academic support in reading and writing. Placement in this course is based on student performance in General or World History and teacher recommendation.

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US HISTORY 2 Course ID 0331 Open to Grades 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: US History I Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This is the third required course of the three year sequence. The content of the course continues from US History I. It includes the study of internal political, social, and economic events and movements which have shaped our society. These themes are interwoven in the students’ discovery process of how the United States has grown into a major world power.

HONORS US HISTORY II Course ID 0335 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: US History I or Honors US History I Weight: 8 Criteria for admissions: See Honors Criteria. Course Length: Year

See US History II. Admission into this course is based on the Honors Criteria as outlined on page 37 of the Program of Studies and by teacher recommendation. In this level, students will engage in more extensive reading and writing activities, primary source document analysis, and projects specifically designed to challenge the honor students and prepare them for the US History AP exam.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT US HISTORY Course ID 0350 Open to Grades 11 Pre-requisites: Honors US History I Weight: 10 Criteria for admissions: Advanced Placement Criteria Course Length: Year

Admission into this course is based on criteria below: 1. Mid-year average of 85% in the present honors course; mid-year grade of 90% in the present academic social studies course. 2. Recommendation of the present social studies teacher.

This course is designed to prepare students for the AP US History exam. Students will restart their journey through American history by linking what they had studied in Honors US I to 20th century topics such as Expansionism to the present Post-Cold War Era, and The Resurgence of Conservatism.

WORLD GEOGRAPHY Course ID 0311 Open to Grades 11,12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

In this course, students focus on major geographic configurations of the world and survey key cultural areas. In addition, students study history and current strengths and problems of these areas. Climates, resources, ecosystems and land use are integrated within the curriculum.

THE BIG HISTORY PROJECT Course ID 0361 Open to Grades 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Semester

The Big History Project examines our past, explains our present, and imagines our future. It’s a story about us. An idea that arose from a desire to go beyond specialized and self-contained fields of study to grasp history as a whole. This growing, multi-disciplinary approach is focused on students seeking answers to the big questions about the history of our Universe. The course spans 13.8 billion years of history and incorporates the insights of more than a dozen disciplines over 10 units. The core Big History Principles are thinking across scale by learning to draw patterns and connections across different scales of time and space, reflecting on history through multiple lenses including origin stories and scientific data, collective learning, and making and testing claims. It is the social studies answer to STEAM, integrating science and technology through the examination of historical eras. Humans are the only species that can pass great quantities of information from generation to generation. This is called learning, and it has accelerated change in communities, civilizations, and the planet as a whole; Big History provides the framework to develop the 21st century skills necessary to become an informed active global citizen.

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CONTEMPORARY ISSUES Course ID 0358 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Semester

Contemporary Issues provides an opportunity for students to explore current matters within the larger historical and social context. Students will examine and explore topics such as leadership, politics, media literacy, race, gender, and our responsibility as global citizens through a variety of lenses. The purpose of this course is to not only present a body of knowledge, but to also teach students that the present is based on and informed from the past. Therefore, students will learn to analyze and synthesize this information to form their opinions and support their perspectives with research. Students will learn to discuss these issues intelligently with their peers, to listen and adjust their viewpoints as they incorporate new information and ideas provided by their classmates. Students, subsequently, will not only examine the most current evidence, but moreover, will also learn how to effectively listen and discuss sensitive issues through a thoughtful approach, without resorting to bigotry or fallacy. The most important goal is for students to learn more about themselves, their own philosophies and their own moral code so they will become active citizens, learned in social problems, ready to tackle these ever-present inequities in the very community and world which surrounds them.

FILM: HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVES Course ID 0360 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Semester

Historical events are full of drama, intrigue, and suspense. They contain heroes and villains, and a story line that follows the basic tenets of great fiction. The question is, do viewers have the critical awareness that they may not be truth? Writers and producers use artistic license to alter the facts of history to embellish the drama. The major focus of this course is the deconstruction of historical film, to become a more critical reader of video text. Perspective, specifically the historical figures, as well as individuals producing the films will be analyzed. Research and comparative work will be done with primary and secondary textural sources. Students’ performance will be evaluated in line with the five strands, reading, writing, speaking, listening, and viewing.

RACISM, GENOCIDE AND THE HOLOCAUST Course ID 0356 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Semester

This course is designed to study the holocaust of World War II and other genocides that have occurred in the Modern World. Events throughout history, such as Native American Removal in North America and the Irish Potato Famine, are analyzed to determine whether or not these events should, or could be considered examples of genocide. The course addresses the historical, sociological, and psychological implications of the Holocaust as well as its impact on human behavior. Among these are: the role of Anti-Semitism, racism and its perpetrators, victims, and bystanders; patterns of resistance; the response of the United States and other countries; and the universal lessons for today. Some of the activities include: analysis of videos, art, and literature; the use of primary source material including stories from survivors; the reading of fiction and non-fiction as it relates to the subject. Students will also participate in debates and discussions.

HONORS CONSTITUTIONAL LAW Course ID 0357 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 8 Criteria for admissions: See Honors Criteria. Course Length: Semester

In this course students will explore the Constitution and the United States Supreme Court cases which have reflected the course of American history. A survey of constitutional law will emphasize legal procedures, civic duties, civil rights and individual liberties. Cases will be analyzed in terms of their legal, political and social impact. This course will be available to eleventh and twelfth grade students who meet the departmental requirements for honors level courses. Students who take this course would be able to apply many skills of court case analysis to the co-curricular activity of Mock Trial. In Mock Trial, students identify the facts and the law of a criminal or civil case, assumes the role of lawyers and witnesses and competes in statewide competition.

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HONORS SOCIOLOGY Course ID 0333 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 8 Criteria for admissions: See Honors Criteria. Course Length: Semester

This course is geared to introduce and explore the forces that operate within social groups. It also attempts to trace the various ways groups are organized and transformed in our society. The contents of the course deal with criminology, United States and world population problems, the history of sociology, and comparative social structures in other cultures. The following activities are found in the course: making, circulating, tabulating and evaluating questionnaires; studying great sociological experiments of the past; reading biographies and other materials related to criminology; and researching special areas of sociology that are of interest to the students.

POLITICAL SCIENCE Course ID 0337 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Semester

This course is designed to help the student learn the practical and theoretical components and dynamics that are involved in U.S. and international politics. Its main focus is on national, state, country and local governments. The content includes past and current presidential elections, U.S. governmental structures, and the political science approaches to national and international politics. Some of the activities of this course are: theoretical and practical involvement in current elections, research and analysis of issues and personalities involved in that election, the reading of fiction and non-fiction which relate to the subject, discussions, debate, and mock elections.

PRACTICAL PSYCHOLOGY Course ID 0338 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This course is intended to allow students to learn the practical applications of psychological principles as they might apply to their own lives. Theoretical aspects of classical psychology are examined in survey fashion. The contents of this course include: group research, reading supplementary materials, examining and writing case histories and giving oral reports on special interest areas.

WAR AND AMERICAN SOCIETY Course ID 0355 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Semester

This course is designed to engage the student to construct a deeper knowledge and understanding of the major conflicts the United States has been involved in from World War I to the Gulf War. Students will be able to evaluate how each of these conflicts has impacted American society. The content includes how the roles of women and minorities have been affected during times of war and subsequent peacetime. Students will also examine how U.S. political, social, and economic policies have changed in times of war. This course will also give students the opportunity to discuss the moral and ethical issues surrounding war itself. Students will participate in class activities that include, but are not limited to: debate, lecture/discussion, group projects, web-quests, film analysis, peer teaching, reaction essay construction, primary sources evaluation, and computer based project creation.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT EUROPEAN HISTORY Course ID 0346 Open to Grades 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 10 Criteria for admissions: Advanced Placement Criteria Course Length: Year

Admission into this course is based on criteria below: 1. Mid-year average of 85% in the present honors course; mid-year grade of 90% in the present academic social studies course. 2. Recommendation of the present social studies teacher.

This course is designed to challenge highly motivated students who enjoy world history and who would like to experience a college level class. This course will emphasize: 1. Ancient world influences on Europe. 2. Influences that cause the development of nations. 3. Influences that create the social, political and cultural institutions of Europe. Students are encouraged to take the AP European History exam. 42

ADVANCED PLACEMENT PSYCHOLOGY Course ID 0349 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 10 Criteria for admissions: Advanced Placement Criteria Course Length: Year

Admission into this course is based on criteria below: 1. Mid-year average of 85% in the present honors course; mid-year grade of 90% in the present academic social studies course. 2. Recommendation of the present social studies teacher.

This course is designed to challenge highly motivated students who are interested in the area of psychology and who would like to experience a college level class. The course will emphasize: 1. an understanding of ethics and various research methods used by psychologists. 2. The ability to apply the concepts learned in class to their own lives. 3. An understanding of the behavior and mental processes of human beings and other animals through the psychological facts, principles, and phenomena found in the major subfields within psychology. Students are encouraged to take the AP Psychology exam.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT US GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS Course ID 0351 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 10 Criteria for admissions: Advanced Placement Criteria Course Length: Year Admission into this course is based on criteria below: 1. Mid-year average of 85% in the present honors course; mid-year grade of 90% in the present academic social studies course. 2. Recommendation of the present social studies teacher.

This course explores the political theory and everyday practice that direct the daily operation of our government and shape our public policies. The express purpose of this course is to prepare students to take the AP Exam for U.S Government and Politics. The course is for all intents and purposes taught on a college level and it requires a substantial amount of reading and preparation for every class. The objectives of this course go beyond a basic analysis of how our government “works.” Students will develop a critical understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the American political system, as well as their rights and responsibilities as citizens. This course is open to juniors and seniors and by teacher recommendation only.

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Special Education Courses

FOUNDATIONS OF ENGLISH 9 Course ID 1034 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This course is open to students recommended by the Child Study Team. Classified students may also be placed in this class if they have encountered difficulties on the PARCC assessment. This course satisfies an English requirement for graduation and mirrors the regular education curriculum. Instruction focuses on the development of reading and writing skills. As students read and analyze varied classic and contemporary texts, they receive instruction on specific reading comprehension and writing strategies. Throughout the year, study skills, vocabulary development, grammar, and test preparation receive great emphasis. Students are also expected to write frequently for varied purposes. Writing instruction emphasizes clarity of message, appropriate word choice, sentence structure, and organization. This course will remediate skills and develop concepts necessary for students to be successful on the PARCC assessment.

FOUNDATIONS OF ENGLISH 10 Course ID 1035 Open to Grades 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This course is open to students recommended by the Child Study Team. This course satisfies an English requirement for graduation and mirrors the regular education curriculum. Foundations of English 10 focuses on the study of American literature. Students deepen their literacy skills as they respond to essential questions. Vocabulary is taught with a new emphasis. Study skills and grammar continue to be a regular part of the students’ work. Writing instruction continues and students are expected to complete longer and more complex compositions. Revision strategies are taught and practiced. This course will remediate skills and develop concepts necessary for students to be successful on the PARCC assessment.

FOUNDATIONS OF ENGLISH 11 Course ID 1036 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This course is open to students recommended by the Child Study Team. This course satisfies an English requirement for graduation and mirrors the regular education curriculum. Foundations of English 11 focuses on the study of British literature. Students continue to examine essential questions as they become more thoughtful readers and writers. Vocabulary development, study skills, and grammar continue to be a regular part of the students’ work. Students also prepare for the PARCC assessment by practicing literacy skills that require critical thinking. The research paper will also play a considerable role as students work on research and synthesis skills. In addition, students prepare some personal writing pieces that can be considered for possible revision for submission as college essays in the following year.

FOUNDATIONS OF ENGLISH 12 Course ID 1037 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This course is open to students recommended by the Child Study Team. This course satisfies an English requirement for graduation and mirrors the regular education curriculum. The curriculum calls for students to examine the conflicts and higher understandings that result from an exploration of the universal themes of the human experience. Units emphasize localized socio-cultural perspectives of the human condition as revealed through literature – both fiction and non-fiction. The study of vocabulary, study skills, and grammar continues as students prepare to enter the workplace or to continue their education after high school. This course aims to develop students’ confidence and readiness levels for their post-secondary experiences.

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READING / LANGUAGE ARTS Course ID 0958 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This course is open to students classified by the Child Study Team. Students receive elective credits for this course. Placement is this course is determined by teacher recommendation or performance on state assessments. Instruction is designed to remediate literacy skills. Students respond to essential questions by reading supplementary fiction and non-fiction pieces. Students also receive direct instruction in writing. Vocabulary, study skills, and test preparation are infused into instruction throughout the course.

FOUNDATIONS OF ALGEBRA 1 Course ID 0984 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This course is open to students recommended by the Child Study Team. Classified students may also be placed in this class if they have encountered difficulties on the PARCC assessment. This course satisfies a mathematics requirement for graduation. Students will acquire skills in basic mathematical operations and algebra, mirroring the mainstream curriculum. Instruction will include both concepts and practical application. This course helps students learn the basic structure of algebra and facilitates them in applying algebraic concepts to the solutions of problems. Manipulatives, graphing calculators, and mathematics software are used to facilitate problem solving, to improve skill development, and to enhance conceptual understanding. This course will remediate skills and develop concepts necessary for students to be successful on the PARCC assessment.

APPLICATIONS OF MATH LAB 1 Course ID 1049 Open to Grades 9, 10 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admissions: Mandatory course based upon proficiency. Course Length: Year

This remedial course is directly aligned with the NJSLS student learning standards. The purpose of this course is to offer supplemental instruction for students in Foundations of Algebra 1, in addition to offering preparation for the PARCC assessment in a manner that focuses on individual skill deficits. Students are identified for placement in this course based upon: PARCC and other standardized test scores, district bench-mark assessments, basic skills assessments and teacher recommendations reflecting student performance. This course is primarily comprised of students currently enrolled in grade 9. Throughout the school year, students will experience a variety of activities that spur real world connections to the mathematics that each student will be studying. Students will also be exposed to PSAT and SAT type problems as they learn how to break down problems and work towards producing solutions.

FOUNDATIONS OF GEOMETRY Course ID 0986 Open to Grades 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: successful completion of an Algebra 1 class Non - Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This course is open to students recommended by the Child Study Team. This course satisfies a mathematics requirement for graduation. Students will acquire skills in basic mathematical operations and geometry, mirroring the mainstream curriculum. Instruction will include both concepts and practical application. This course is designed to help students develop the power of logical analysis. Students will discover a logical mathematical system to analyze problems both inductively and deductively. The acquisition and use of mathematical vocabulary will also be emphasized. Manipulatives, graphing calculators, and mathematics software, are used to facilitate problem solving, skill development, and to enhance conceptual understanding. This course will continue to remediate skills and develop concepts necessary for students to be successful on the PARCC assessment.

APPLICATIONS OF MATH LAB 2 Course ID 1050 Open to Grades 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Non-Ranked Criteria for admissions: Mandatory course based upon proficiency.

This remedial course is directly aligned with the NJSLS student learning standards. The purpose of this course is to offer support for students in their primary mathematics course which should be Foundations of Geometry, in addition to offering preparation for the PARCC assessment. Students are identified based on their previous PARCC scores, standardized test scores, and teacher recommendations. The class mainly consists of students from grade 10. 45

Throughout the course, students will be exposed to a variety of activities that show real world connections to the mathematics that each student will be studying. This course takes place during the student’s Resource Center Support class. One-half of that class is dedicated to math remediation. Students receive 2.5 credits for their mathematical work.

FOUNDATIONS OF ALGEBRA 2 Course ID 0985 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: successful completion of an Algebra 1 and a Geometry class Non - Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This course is open to students recommended by the Child Study Team. This course satisfies a mathematics requirement for graduation. Students in Foundations of Algebra 2 extend the basic structure of Algebra 1. Students study polynomial, rational, and radical functions. The standards in this course continue the work of modeling situations and solving equations. Students relate the visual displays and summary statistics learned in prior courses to different types of data and to probability distributions. Manipulatives, graphing calculators, and mathematics software, are used to facilitate problem solving, skill development, and to enhance conceptual understanding. This course will remediate skills and develop concepts necessary for students to be successful on the PARCC assessment.

APPLICATIONS OF MATH LAB 3 Course ID 1051 Open to Grades 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admissions: Mandatory course based upon proficiency. Course Length: Year

This remedial course is directly aligned with the NJSLS student learning standards. The purpose of this course is to offer supplemental instruction for students in Foundations of Algebra 2, in addition to offering preparation for the PARCC assessment in a manner that focuses on individual skill deficits. Students are identified for placement in this course based upon: PARCC and other standardized test scores, district bench-mark assessments, basic skills assessments and teacher recommendations reflecting student performance. This course is primarily comprised of students currently enrolled in grade 9. Throughout the school year, students will experience a variety of activities that spur real world connections to the mathematics that each student will be studying. Students will also be exposed to PSAT and SAT type problems as they learn how to break down problems and work towards producing solutions.

FOUNDATIONS OF WORLD HISTORY Course ID 0961 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This course is open to students recommended by the Child Study Team. This course satisfies a social studies requirement for graduation. This course provides the students with knowledge of the major events, people, and countries of the past, mirroring the regular education curriculum. Study skills are infused into classroom instruction and reading and writing skills are reinforced. Foundations of World History takes place in a separate classroom or a regular education class.

FOUNDATIONS OF US HISTORY 1 Course ID 0953 Open to Grades 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This course is open to classified students upon the recommendation of the Child Study Team. The resource center’s American History 1 course fulfills one of the social studies requirements for high school graduation. These courses have been designed to meet the needs of each classified student, while mirroring the mainstream curriculum. Emphasis will be placed on the concepts of our country’s growth from a small agricultural nation to a global leader of today. The time period of this course goes through the 1890’s. Class activities are designed to improve students’ reading and writing skills. Map skills are also developed. Current events are discussed when appropriate. Foundations of US History 1 takes place in a separate classroom or a regular education class.

FOUNDATIONS OF US HISTORY 2 Course ID 0997 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

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This course is open to classified students upon the recommendation of the Child Study Team. The resource center’s American History 2 course fulfills one of the social studies requirements for high school graduation. These courses have been designed to meet the needs of each classified student, while mirroring the mainstream curriculum. Emphasis will be placed on the concepts of our country’s growth from a small agricultural nation to a global leader of today. The content of the course continues from US History 1. The influence of historical events on society is emphasized. Students are expected to participate in class discussions and debates. Literacy skills continue to be reinforced and developed. This class takes place in a separate classroom or a regular education classroom.

FOUNDATIONS OF BIOLOGY Course ID 0951 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This science is open to classified students upon the recommendation of the Child Study Team. This course satisfies a science requirement for graduation. Foundations of Biology introduces students to the fundamental principles, law, and concepts of biology, mirroring the regular education curriculum. Classroom activities promote thinking skills. The understanding and use of technical scientific terms is important in this course. In addition to emphasizing vocabulary, remedial reading and writing skills are incorporated into academic activities. Foundations of Biology takes place in a separate classroom or a regular education class.

FOUNDATIONS OF CHEMISTRY Course ID 0955 Open to Grades 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This science is open to classified students upon the recommendation of the Child Study Team. This course satisfies a science requirement for graduation. This course was designed to introduce students to terms and concepts in areas of chemistry, mirroring the regular education curriculum. Again, the understanding and appropriate use of scientific vocabulary is emphasized. Academic activities develop thinking skills and provide opportunities for the students to apply their mathematical skills. Literacy skills continue to be reinforced. Foundations of Chemistry takes place in a separate classroom or a regular education class.

FOUNDATIONS OF PHYSICS Course ID 0957 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This science is open to classified students upon the recommendation of the Child Study Team. This course satisfies a science requirement for graduation. The course is designed to introduce students to the fundamental principles, laws, and concepts of physics. The understanding and appropriate use of scientific vocabulary is emphasized. Academic activities develop thinking skills and provide opportunities for the students to apply their mathematical skills. Literacy skills continue to be reinforced. Foundations of Physics takes place in a separate classroom or a regular education class.

FOUNDATIONS OF SPANISH I Course ID 0948 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This course is open to students recommended by the Child Study Team. This course satisfies a foreign language requirement for graduation. Foundation of Spanish I will focus on the skills necessary for success in using basic functional language skills, mirroring the regular education curriculum. Students develop basics listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. Multimedia resources are used. Students also explore Spanish culture and its influence in the United States.

TRANSITION PLANNING Course ID 0988 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Semester

This one semester course is designed to meet the transition requirements for special education students at the secondary level. It is a department requirement for students in the resource program and for classified students in regular 47

education. Students receive elective credits for this course. Students gain skills in self determination by studying their learning profile, including their IEP. Students participate in learning style inventories and vocational interest surveys. They research post-secondary options and develop post-secondary plans. Self-advocacy skills are discussed and explicitly taught. This course prepares students to make a thoughtful and informed entry into post-secondary education or post-secondary employment.

LEARNING STRATEGIES Course ID 0950 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length:Year *2.5 credits Learning Strategies is a 2.5 credit class in which the special education teacher assists the classified student in organizational and study skills, as well as any other identified area. This class supports the classified student in the regular education program. Students are expected to bring their class work to Support and utilize their time responsibly.

ENGLISH 1 Course ID 1001 Open to Grades 9 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This course is open to students recommended by the Child Study Team. It fulfills one of the English requirements for graduation. Instruction will focus on communication skills, remedial reading skills, basic writing skills and the application of these skills in a functional manner. Vocabulary study and the expansion of language skills are an integral part of this course.

ENGLISH 2 Course ID 1004 Open to Grades 10 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This course is open to students recommended by the Child Study Team. It fulfills one of the English requirements for graduation. Instruction will continue to focus on communication skills, remedial reading skills, and the application of these skills in a functional manner. Students read longer works of literature and respond to their readings through discussion and writing. Social communication is emphasized.

ENGLISH 3 Course ID 1005 Open to Grades 11 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This course is open to students recommended by the Child Study Team. It fulfills one of the English requirements for graduation. Instruction continues to focus on communication skills, remedial reading skills, and the application of these skills in a functional manner. There is an increased emphasis on functional vocabulary and life skills. Students complete sample business forms, such as job applications.

ENGLISH 4 Course ID 1006 Open to Grades 12 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This course is open to students recommended by the Child Study Team. It fulfills one of the English requirements for graduation. Instruction continues to focus on communication skills, remedial reading, skills, and the application of these skills in a functional manner. In addition to real world reading exercises, students use literature as an opportunity to learn about themselves as young adults. Social communication is emphasized. Students write for varied purposes; they will complete reflective journals, but they will also complete many real world writing exercises.

APPLIED MATH 1 Course ID 1045 Open to Grades 9 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

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This course is open to students recommended by the Child Study Team. It fulfills one of the mathematics requirements for graduation. Students will acquire skills in basic mathematical operations. Instructional emphasis will be on the functional application of these skills. Activities will center on real world applications of skills such as using estimation and interpreting data.

APPLIED MATH 2 Course ID 1046 Open to Grades 10 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This course is open to students recommended by the Child Study Team. This course satisfies a mathematics requirement for graduation. Students continue to develop their number sense and to apply their knowledge of mathematical operations to real world situations. Instructional emphasis continues to be on the functional application of mathematical skills.

APPLIED MATH 3 Course ID 1047 Open to Grades 11 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This course is open to students recommended by the Child Study Team. This course satisfies a mathematics requirement for graduation. Students practice using their knowledge of mathematics to navigate real world simulations. Money skills are emphasized throughout the year.

APPLIED MATH 4 Course ID 1048 Open to Grades 12 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This course is open to students recommended by the Child Study Team. This course satisfies an elective requirement for graduation. Students continue an intensive application of math skills to the real world.

GLOBAL HISTORY Course ID 1044 Open to Grades 9,10,11,12 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This course is open to students recommended by the Child Student Team. This course satisfies a social studies requirement for graduation. Instruction will focus on ancient civilizations and their contributions to our world. Modern countries are also discussed to help students develop a global awareness of today’s world. Students also discuss current events to help them develop this awareness. Communication skills and functional social skills are infused into classroom activities.

AMERICAN HISTORY 1 Course ID 1042 Open to Grades 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This course is open to classified students upon the recommendation of the Child Study Team. It fulfills one of the social studies requirements for graduation. Instruction will focus on the earlier aspects of American history and will incorporate discussions of current events. Good citizenship will also be discussed in a practical manner. Communication skills and functional social skills continue to be infused into classroom activities.

AMERICAN HISTORY II Course ID 1043 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This course is open to students recommended by the Child Study Team. This course satisfies a social studies requirement for graduation. Instruction will focus on later American history and will incorporate discussions of current events. Good citizenship will also be discussed in a practical manner. 49

INTEGRATED SCIENCE 1 Course ID 1062 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This science is open to classified students upon the recommendation of the Child Study Team. This course fulfills one of the science requirements for graduation. The course was designed to introduce students to terms and concepts in areas of biology. Real world applications are emphasized. Functional skills, such as the development of good work habits, are infused into class activities.

INTEGRATED SCIENCE 2 Course ID 1063 Open to Grades 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This science is open to classified students upon the recommendation of the Child Study Team. This course fulfills one of the science requirements for graduation. The course was designed to continue the study of life science and to introduce students to terms and concepts in the area of chemistry. Real world applications are emphasized. Pre- vocational work habits continue to be infused into class activities.

INTEGRATED SCIENCE 3 Course ID 1064 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This science is open to classified students upon the recommendation of the Child Study Team. This course fulfills one of the science requirements for graduation. The course was designed to introduce students to terms and concepts in the area of physics. Real world applications of physical science are emphasized. Pre-vocational work habits continue to be infused into class activities.

INTEGRATED SCIENCE 4 Course ID 1065 Open to Grades 12 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This science is open to classified students upon the recommendation of the Child Study Team. This course fulfills an elective requirement for graduation. This course is functional in nature and explores the role of science in our daily lives.

BASIC SPANISH CULTURE I Course ID 1020 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This course is open to students recommended by the Child Study Team. It fulfills one of the foreign language requirements for graduation. Students will be introduced to Spanish vocabulary and culture. Communication skills and an appreciation of the Spanish culture will be emphasized.

LIFE SKILLS 9 Course ID 1027 Open to Grades 9 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This course is open to students recommended by the Child Study Team. It will assist students in satisfying the elective requirements for graduation. Instruction will focus on the development and practice of social skills and functional skills designed to increase the student’s independent functioning. Work readiness skills will also be developed.

LIFE SKILLS 10 Course ID 1026 Open to Grades 10 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

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This course is open to students recommended by the Child Study Team. It will assist students in satisfying the elective requirements for graduation. Instruction will focus on the development and practice of social skills and functional skills designed to increase the student’s independent functioning. Work readiness skills will also be developed.

LIFE SKILLS 11 Course ID 1028 Open to Grades 11 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This course is open to students recommended by the Child Study Team. It will assist students in satisfying the elective requirements for graduation. Instruction will focus on the development and practice of social skills and functional skills designed to increase the student’s independent functioning. Work readiness skills will also be developed. Students participate in introductory community-based work experiences.

LIFE SKILLS 12 Course ID 1029 Open to Grades 12 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This course is open to students recommended by the Child Study Team. It will assist students in satisfying the elective requirements for graduation. Instruction will focus on the development and practice of social skills and functional skills designed to increase the student’s independent functioning. Work readiness skills continue to be developed.

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Visual Arts

VISUAL ARTS Course ID 0760 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 0 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

Visual Arts is a foundation course that focuses on the basic fundamentals of art. Students will explore the concepts of linear perspective, color theory, human proportions, three-dimensional sculpture and more, as they relate to the elements of art and principles of design. Visual Arts is the pre-requisite for all other offered art courses.

ADVANCED INTERIOR AND STRUCTURAL DESIGN Course ID 0736 Open to Grades 11, 12 Prerequisites: Interior/Structural Design Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Semester

Advanced Interior/Structural Design is a half-year course as a continuation of Interior/Structural Design. Students will continue developing their skills as professional designers as they focus on one specific design field, such as: Architecture, Interior Design, Furniture Design or Monument Design. Students will continue to engage with professional designers through analysis of structures, spaces, industrial art, and forms to improve their understanding of the elements of art and principles of design. Design concepts will be created in AutoCAD, including orthographic projections, three-dimensional renderings, and three-dimensional models.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT ART HISTORY Course ID 0752 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: There are no pre-requisites for this AP course; however, Weight: 10 strong proficiency in English Language Arts and World History skills is Course Length: Year highly recommended. Criteria for admissions: Recommendation by English Language Arts teacher

Advanced Placement (AP) Art History is designed to be the equivalent of a two-semester introductory college level course. The content of this curriculum supports students in becoming skilled in critical analysis of major forms of artistic expression including architecture, painting, and sculpture from the past through the present. Students will examine artwork from a variety of cultures as a reflection of its historical and sociocultural context. This course provides opportunities for students to apply their knowledge of history, geography, politics, religion, languages, literature and the visual arts. This course is recommended for students with strong writing skills and an interest in pursuing a career in museum studies, architecture, archaeology, sociology, history or visual art.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT STUDIO ART Course ID 0750 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: 10 Credits in Art; a score of 90 in second year art course; Weight: 10 teacher recommendation; Portfolio Development Course Length: Year

The Advanced Placement (AP) Studio Art course allows for highly motivated high school students to do college level work. AP Studio Art is a very challenging course, recommended for students that are serious about their work and intend to enter an art school or a college art program, or are seeking to pursue an art career. The work requires personal and original interpretations of each assignment along with a demonstrated mastery of visual and design principles through the creation of drawings, paintings and mixed media two-dimensional artworks. The students will also be expected to write analytical and critical essays relating to their work and the works of professional artists. Throughout the year students will be creating artworks that will be submitted as a portfolio for evaluation towards the end of the school year. This portfolio requires that student artwork show a fundamental competence and range of understanding in visual concerns (and methods).

ADVANCED PLACEMENT THREE-DIMENSIONAL DESIGN Course ID 0751 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: 10 Credits in Art; a score of 90 in second year art course; Weight: 10 teacher recommendation; Three-Dimensional Design is required and Course Length: Year and Portfolio Development is also recommended.

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The Advanced Placement (AP) Three-Dimensional Design course allows for highly motivated high school students to do college level work. AP Three-Dimensional Design is a very challenging course, recommended for students that are serious about their work and intend to enter an art school or a college art program, or are seeking to pursue an art career. The work requires personal and original interpretations of each assignment along with a demonstrated mastery of visual and design principles through the creation of utilitarian objects and decorative sculpture using a variety of media including clay, wax, plaster and wire. The students will also be expected to write analytical and critical essays relating to their work and the works of professional artists. Throughout the year students will be creating artworks that will be submitted as a portfolio for evaluation towards the end of the school year. This portfolio requires that student artwork show a fundamental competence and range of understanding in visual concerns (and methods).

ANIMATION Course ID 0767 Open to Grades 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: Visual Arts Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This course is open to students who have already completed Visual Arts. Students will create animated films using the Adobe Flash program and traditional techniques. Projects will include traditional figure drawing, character design and development, and the design of the visual and narrative concepts of animated short films. Students will learn about the history of the animated film and the principles of animation through in-depth written analyses of historically and visually significant short films. Students will be introduced to the processes behind creating an animated project through the creation of storyboards, character design, environment design, and sound design. Both the arts of hand- drawn animation and stop-motion animation will be explored.

COMPUTER MODELING Course ID 0768 Open to Grades 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: Visual Arts, Drafting 1 or Intro to Woodworking Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Semester This semester course is open to students who have already completed Visual Arts, Drafting 1 or Intro to Woodworking. In this course students will develop and design products and art objects using the Cinema 4D computer modeling software. Projects include product design, sculpture, and the development and marketing of their own product. Students will learn about the field of industrial design through the development of their own products and research into current innovations and materials. Students will develop a product or art object with humanitarian purposes in consideration and create a mock crowd funding campaign in which design and marketing will be addressed.

DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY Course ID 0765 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: Visual Arts Weight: 0 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Semester

Digital Photography acquaints students with the digital camera through specific photographic assignments. A digital SLR camera will be provided by the Art Department. Students will use the computer software, Adobe Photoshop®, to learn exposure adjustments and image manipulation. Photos will be printed in black and white and color modes. Works by professional photographers will be critically analyzed. A flash or other storage drive for photo storage and submittal is required.

GRAPHIC DESIGN Course ID 0769 Open to Grades 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: Visual Arts Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

Graphic Design is a part of the Visual Arts program at Mahwah High School (MHS) that covers the developing field of graphic design. The role of graphic design is expanding and changing with each passing day. Graphic design has the potential to provide us with the tools, techniques, and processes to better understand our visual culture that enables us to engage with our rapidly changing environment, developing and noticing new connections, and being able to work with them. Graphic design is best understood through experiential learning: the creative play of form and function. It is through these processes one can develop a personal aesthetic lexicon, an understanding of graphic design, and an understanding of our surrounding world. The projects contained in this curriculum are oriented around the experience and discovery of the students, as opposed to a static list of rules and client-oriented teaching strategies. This class offers a variety of experiences through a synthesis of studio work, discussion, critique, and analysis. Students will utilize critical thinking and problem solving skills in conjunction with creativity, intuition, and exploration to expand and hone their understanding and skills as both creators and viewers of the visual arts. 53

The course will explore disciplines and media related to graphic design including: Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, scanners, digital cameras, Etsy, printmaking, Dropbox, et al. Visual Arts is a prerequisite for this course.

HONORS STUDIO PORTFOLIO DEVELOPMENT Course ID 0741 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: 10 Credits in Visual Arts Weight: 8 Criteria for admissions: Teacher recommendation Course Length: Year

Studio Portfolio Development is designed to help students build a general portfolio that is required by art schools and college art programs as well as prepare students who intend to take AP Studio Art (Two-Dimensional Design and Drawing) as a senior. The students will explore self-portraiture, abstract artwork, observational studies, collaborative art projects, and art in a series. Students will be expected to demonstrate their interest in art, technical skills, and their conceptual thinking through personal writing and class discussion. The emphasis of the course will be on the creative and personal interpretation of each assignment.

HONORS THREE-DIMENSIONAL PORTFOLIO DEVELOPMENT Course ID 0770 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: 10 Credits in Visual Arts Weight: 8 Criteria for admissions: Teacher recommendation Course Length: Year

Three-Dimensional Portfolio Development is designed to help students build a general portfolio that is required by art schools and college art programs as well as prepare students who intend to take AP Three-Dimensional Design as a senior. The students will explore collaborative art practices, self-portraiture, abstraction, sculpture from observation, site-specific sculpture, and art in a series. Students will be expected to demonstrate their interest in art, technical skills, and their conceptual thinking through personal writing and class discussion. The emphasis of the course will be on the creative and personal interpretation of each assignment.

INTERIOR AND STRUCTURAL DESIGN Course ID 0735 Open to Grades 10, 11, 12 Prerequisites: Visual Arts, or Wood Tech I, or Drafting Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year Interior and Structural Design is a full year course that focuses on the elements of art and principles of design as utilized by professional architectural, interior, and structural designers. Students will be introduced to AutoCAD®, which is a computer-aided design program, along with three-dimensional modeling and drawing techniques in order to best convey their individual design concepts. The emphasis of this course is on professional design presentation through AutoCAD® and other forms of art making. Concepts explored may include furniture design, public space planning, monument design, building redesign, and home renovation. Students will also explore and analyze important structures, architects, and designers throughout the course.

PAINTING & DRAWING Course ID 0762 Open to Grades 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: Visual Arts Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

Painting & Drawing is an essential developmental course recommended for students who want to create a portfolio for art school or college. The course prepares students for all higher level courses and is strongly recommended for students interested in illustration. Painting & Drawing focuses on a combination of developmental skills, organizational principles, and the ability to personally interpret assignments. Students are expected to complete required projects in addition to works using their imagination and creativity.

THREE-DIMENSIONAL DESIGN Course ID 0763 Open to Grades 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: Visual Arts Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

Three-Dimensional Design explores ceramics, sculpture and functional design. Students will work with a variety of media including clay, wax, plaster and wire to create both utilitarian objects and decorative sculpture. Assignments are structured, but encourage students to find their own creative solutions to the technical and conceptual requirements. This course is recommended for students interested in creating three-dimensional art and is an excellent portfolio preparation course. This is also a great course for any student who may be interested in pursuing a career in a three- dimensional medium such as crafts, product design or architecture. 54

World Language Courses

FRENCH 1 Course ID 0211 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: none Course Length: Year

Through thematic design and communicative-based language instruction this course is the first step in preparing students for authentic language use in the real world. Students will be engaged in meaningful, motivating and cognitively challenging activities. They will be encouraged to use language in activities embedded in authentic, real- life contexts and connected to content learned in other core areas. Secondly, the students will actively use language rather than memorizing vocabulary lists and analyzing grammatical concepts. Grammar will be taught contextually; to clarify communication and meaning and not by rote exercises. Finally, students will be assessed by a variety of assessment strategies.

FRENCH 2 Course ID 0221 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: French 1 Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: none Course Length: Year

Students continue to expand their communicative abilities by exploring interesting and culturally rich themes.

HONORS FRENCH 2 Course ID 0222 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: French 1 Weight: 8 Criteria for admissions: Honors admissions criteria Course Length: Year

See French 2. In addition, this course is designed for students who demonstrate academic maturity and an advanced proficiency level. The Honors French 2 course is intended to bring the students to the Intermediate-Low level of proficiency (NJCCCS and ACTFL) as opposed to the Novice-High level of proficiency in French 2. Teachers will design activities, assessment tasks and rubrics which reflect the targeted proficiency level.

FRENCH 3 Course ID 0228 Open to Grades 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: French 2 Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: none Course Length: Year

Students continue to actively use language in real-life contexts as they strive to reach higher proficiency.

HONORS FRENCH 3 Course ID 0232 Open to Grades 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: Honors French 2, French 2 Weight: 8 Criteria for admissions: Honors admissions criteria Course Length: Year

See French 3. This course is designed to challenge students who demonstrate academic maturity and an advanced proficiency level. Teachers will design activities, assessment tasks and rubrics which reflect the targeted proficiency level.

FRENCH 4 Course ID 0238 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: French 3 Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: none Course Length: Year

By the end of level 4, students will have expanded the content areas in which they can communicate comfortably. They will have increased their potential to live and function socially in the target culture. The students will demonstrate understanding of more advanced grammatical constructions while speaking, reading, writing and listening.

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HONORS FRENCH 4 Course ID 0239 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: Honors French 3, French 3 Weight: 8 Criteria for admissions: Honors admissions criteria Course Length: Year

See French 4. In addition, this course is designed to challenge students who demonstrate academic maturity and an advanced proficiency level. Teachers will design activities, assessment tasks and rubrics which reflect the targeted proficiency level.

FRENCH 5 Course ID 0275 Open to Grades 12 Pre-requisites: Honors French 4, French 4 Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: none Course Length: Year

In this course, students continue to develop proficiency at the Intermediate level. Students intensively practice the three modes of communication through interesting, culturally rich, student centered topics which motivate students to communicate in the target language.

HONORS FRENCH 5 Course ID 0259 Open to Grades 12 Pre-requisites: Honors French 4, French 4 Weight: 8 Criteria for admissions: Honors admissions criteria Course Length: Year

In this course, students develop a strong command of the language, with proficiency in integrating language skills and synthesizing written and aural materials. Students intensively practice the three modes of communication through quality, level-appropriate materials such as newspaper and magazine articles, literary texts, videos, recordings and other materials which develop students’ reading and aural comprehension abilities.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT FRENCH LANGUAGE Course ID 0249 Open to Grades 12 Pre-requisites: Honors French 4, French 4 Weight: 10 Criteria for admissions: Advanced Placement Criteria Course Length: Year

Admission to this course is based on the criteria below. 1. Mid-year average of 85% in the present honors course; mid-year grade of 90% in the present academic world language course. 2. Recommendation of the present world language teacher.

The curriculum is based on the Advanced Placement Course Description of the College Board. The course description is similar to Honors French 5 with the exception that AP students focus more intensely on a rigorous review of grammatical structures in preparation for the AP exam. Advanced organizational and analytical strategies are taught. An array of resources is used as necessary to facilitate the learning process. A diagnostic test or other means of determining students’ strengths and problem areas is done within the first two weeks of the school year in order to customize the instruction.

SPANISH 1 Course ID 0214 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: none Course Length: Year

Through thematic design and communicative-based language instruction this course is the first step in preparing students for authentic language use in the real world. Students will be engaged in meaningful, motivating and cognitively challenging activities. They will be encouraged to use language in activities embedded in authentic, real- life contexts and connected to content learned in other core areas. Secondly, the students will actively use language rather than memorizing vocabulary lists and analyzing grammatical concepts. Grammar will be taught contextually; to clarify communication and meaning and not by rote exercises. Finally, students will be assessed by a variety of assessment strategies.

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SPANISH 2 Course ID 0224 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: Spanish 1 Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: none Course Length: Year

Students continue to expand their communicative abilities by exploring interesting and culturally rich themes.

HONORS SPANISH 2 Course ID 0226 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: Spanish 1 Weight: 8 Criteria for admissions: Honors admissions criteria Course Length: Year

See Spanish 2. In addition, this course is designed for students who demonstrate academic maturity and an advanced proficiency level. The Honors Spanish 2 course is intended to bring the students to the Intermediate-Low level of proficiency (NJCCCS and ACTFL) as opposed to the Novice-High level of proficiency in Spanish 2. Teachers will design activities, assessment tasks and rubrics which reflect the targeted proficiency level.

SPANISH 3 Course ID 0234 Open to Grades 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: Spanish 2 Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: none Course Length: Year

Students continue to actively use language in real-life contexts as they strive for higher proficiency.

HONORS SPANISH 3 Course ID 0236 Open to Grades 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: Honors Spanish 2, Spanish 2 Weight:8 Criteria for admissions: Honors admissions criteria Course Length: Year

See Spanish 3. In addition, this course is designed to challenge students who demonstrate academic maturity and an advanced proficiency level. Teachers will design activities, assessment tasks and rubrics which reflect the targeted proficiency level.

SPANISH 4 Course ID 0248 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: Spanish 3 Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: none Course Length: Year

By the end of level 4, students will have expanded the content areas in which they can communicate comfortably. They will have increased their potential to live and function socially in the target culture. The students will demonstrate understanding of more advanced grammatical constructions while speaking, reading, writing and listening.

HONORS SPANISH 4 Course ID 0246 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: Honors Spanish 3, Spanish 3 Weight: 8 Criteria for admissions: Honors admissions criteria Course Length: Year

See Spanish 4. In addition, this course is designed to challenge students who demonstrate academic maturity and an advanced proficiency level. Teachers will design activities, assessment tasks and rubrics which reflect the targeted proficiency level.

SPANISH 5 Course ID 0276 Open to Grades 12 Pre-requisites: Honors Spanish 4, Spanish 4 Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

In this course, students continue to develop proficiency at the Intermediate level. Students intensively practice the three modes of communication through interesting, culturally rich, student centered topics which motivate students to communicate in the target language.

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HONORS SPANISH 5 Course ID 0261 Open to Grades 12 Pre-requisites: Honors Spanish 4, Spanish 4 Weight: 8 Criteria for admissions: Honors admissions criteria Course Length: Year

In this course, students develop a strong command of the language, with proficiency in integrating language skills and synthesizing written and aural materials. Students intensively practice the three modes of communication through quality, level-appropriate materials such as newspaper and magazine articles, literary texts, videos, recordings and other materials which develop students’ reading and aural comprehension abilities.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT SPANISH LANGUAGE Course ID 0247 Open to Grades 12 Pre-requisites: Honors Spanish 4 Weight: 10 Criteria for admissions: Advanced Placement Criteria Course Length: Year

Admission into this course is based on the criteria below. 1. Mid-year average of 85% in the present honors course; mid-year grade of 90% in the present academic world language course. 2. Recommendation of the present world language teacher.

The curriculum is based on the Advanced Placement Course Description of the College Board. The course description is similar to Honors Spanish 5 with the exception that AP students focus more intensely on a rigorous review of grammatical structures in preparation for the AP exam. Advanced organizational and analytical strategies are taught. An array of resources is used as necessary to facilitate the learning process. A diagnostic test or other means of determining students’ strengths and problem areas is done within the first two weeks of the school year in order to customize the instruction.

ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE (ESL) Course ID 0217 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admissions: W-APT or ACCESS Course Length: Year

English as a second language is open to students with limited or no English proficiency. Developing literacy through reading and language arts is at the heart of the course. Students also receive content-based instruction and support which is adapted to their educational backgrounds and language proficiency levels. Every spring, students who are deemed English language learners are assessed by ACCESS for ELLs, a state mandated language test to determine proficiency.

ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE (SUPPORT) Course ID 0216 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Non - Ranked Criteria for admissions: W-APT/ACCESS/Teacher Recommendation Course Length: Year

In this class, students receive one on one support from the ESL teacher. The teacher and students focus on academic areas which are most linguistically challenging for the students.

MANDARIN CHINESE 1 Course ID 0278 Open to Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: none Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

Through thematic design and communicative-based language instruction, this course is the first step in preparing students for authentic language use. Students will be introduced to Pinyin, a system for reading and writing Chinese words in the Roman alphabet and to basic strokes of Chinese characters. Connecting the curricular themes to Chinese customs, history and geography will also be a part of this rich curriculum.

MANDARIN CHINESE 2 Course ID 0279 Open to Grades 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: Chinese 1 Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

Students continue to expand their communicative abilities by exploring interesting and culturally rich themes. 58

Through thematic design and communicative-based language instruction, this course is the first step in preparing students for authentic language use. Students will be introduced to Pinyin, a system for reading and writing Chinese words in the Roman alphabet and to basic strokes of Chinese characters. Connecting the curricular themes to Chinese customs, history and geography will also be a part of this rich curriculum.

MANDARIN CHINESE 3 Course ID 0280 Open to Grades 11, 12 Pre-requisites: Chinese 2 Weight: 3 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This course is a continuation of Chinese 1 and 2 with a thematic and communicative-based instruction to develop the ability on three modes of communication. The students are expected to master the pinyin Romanization system, to speak Mandarin with improved accuracy and expanded vocabulary, and to be able to understand and sustain simple conversations with others on topics beyond one’s immediate environment. The students will also develop an advanced understanding of Chinese culture and society in general. Connecting the curricular themes to Chinese history, culture, and traditions, will also be a part of this rich curriculum.

HONORS MANDARIN CHINESE 4 Course ID 0281 Open to Grades 12 Pre-requisites: Chinese 3, teacher recommendation Weight: 8 Criteria for admissions: Course Length: Year

This course is a continuation of Chinese 3, with thematic and communicative-based instruction. Students are expected to expand their proficiency in the three modes of communication and improve the use of Chinese characters. The students will also continue to learn and to understand Chinese culture and society by connecting the curricular themes to Chinese history and traditions.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT CHINESE LANGUAGE Course ID 0282 Open to Grades 12 Pre-requisites: Honors Mandarin Chinese 4 Weight: 10 Criteria for admissions: Advanced Placement Criteria Course Length: Year

Admission to this course is based on the criteria below. 1. Mid-year average of 85% in the present honors course; mid-year grade of 90% in the present academic world language course. 2. Recommendation of the present world language teacher.

The curriculum is based on the Advanced Placement Course Description of the College Board. In this course, students will use authentic Chinese materials and sources to develop language skills in multiple modes of communication, including two-way interactions in both writing and speaking; interpretation of audio, audiovisual, and print materials; and oral and written presentation of information and ideas. The course description is similar to Honors Chinese 4 with the exception that AP students focus more intensely on a rigorous review of grammatical structures in preparation for the AP exam. Advanced organizational and analytical strategies are taught. An array of resources is used as necessary to facilitate the learning process. A diagnostic test or other means of determining students’ strengths and problem areas is done within the first two weeks of the school year in order to customize the instruction.

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