Holliston High School

Program of Studies

2011 - 2012

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Principal’s Message

Academic Levels

Availability of Courses

Course Guidelines /Selection

Course Qualifications

Course and Level Changes

Grade Advancement Requirements

Graduation Requirements

School to Career Internship Program

TEC Online Course Program

Course Listings

English Department Offerings

Fine & Performing Arts Department Offerings
	Fine Arts Program
	Performing Arts Program

Foreign Languages Department Offerings
	French Program
	Spanish Program
	Mandarin Chinese Program
	Latin Program

Mathematics & Business Department Offerings
	Mathematics Course Flowchart
	Mathematics Program
	Business Program

Science & Technology Department Offerings
	Science Program
	Technology Program

Social Studies Department Offerings

Special Education Department Offerings

Wellness Department Offerings

TEC Online Course Programs

PRINCIPAL’S MESSAGE

Dear Holliston High Student:

This booklet is designed to help you plan your high school program of studies. It provides information about graduation requirements, post high school considerations, and descriptions of the courses offered at Holliston High School.

Study the booklet carefully and become familiar with the requirements of elective courses and those necessary for graduation and entry to colleges. Requirements for graduation are reviewed with all students at each grade level during the course selection presentations. Every student here is encouraged to develop his/her capacity in a variety of disciplines through a flexible and varied curriculum with rigorous course standards.

I encourage you to ask questions of your parents, teachers, and counselors before making your final course selections. I recommend that students consider all academic opportunities and choose courses because of their individual interests, needs, abilities and future plans. Your goal in selecting a program of studies should go beyond meeting college entrance requirements to selecting programs, which will develop you into a more broadly educated person. The best course selections usually result from students, parents, faculty, and guidance working together.

Michael Cournoyer

Principal

ACADEMIC LEVELS

All graded courses have an academic level indicating the relative degree of demands and challenge.

Advanced Placement courses

Honors courses

College Preparatory I courses

College Preparatory II courses

This rating system should be considered as an overall measure of the demands of Holliston High School courses and a factor used in conjunction with student grades in determining a student’s standing in a graduation class.

Only the class standing calculation at the end of the junior year is recorded with student records. (Exception: Top ten academic students receiving recognition at the graduation ceremony are selected using the quality point procedure at the end of 3 ¾ years of high school).

Please Note: Placement in any College Preparatory II course is based upon teacher recommendation and subject to review and approval by guidance personnel and the administration. Enrollment will be based upon a student’s demonstrated ability level and skill set and not upon work ethic or effort.

A student who anticipates participating in college athletics or receive an athletic scholarship at a Division I or Division II college must complete 16 core courses or 14 core courses respectively in designated disciplines. Advanced Placement, Honors and College Preparatory I courses taken in the appropriate disciplines offered at Holliston High School fulfill these requirements. College Preparatory II classes at Holliston High School do not fulfill these requirements. Please visit www.ncaaclearinghouse.net for more information.

AVAILABILITY OF COURSES

The Program of Studies contains a wide variety of courses, some of which are limited in enrollment. Staffing decisions are made in light of course enrollment and available resources. Low enrollment or staffing constraints may result in the cancellation of some courses and/or sections of courses. A semester block course may be modified to a term block course. Students enrolled in three-term block courses may have a change of instructors at term break. Changes are not limited to those listed. Within the courses allowed, student needs will be of prime importance when any modification is put into place.

COURSE GUIDELINES / SELECTION

To take advantage of present educational opportunities, students must become aware of the school’s Program of Studies. The curriculum at Holliston High School offers a range of opportunities. In selecting courses, students are encouraged to clarify decisions by consulting with teachers, counselors, and parents. Students not only should plan an appropriate sequence of courses within required subject areas, but also should consider related courses to extend their background or support future educational and career goals. Courses offered in all instructional areas should be weighed as possible choices.

A final course selection should represent the best program possible for an individual student. It should address abilities and needs. The school makes every effort to respond to a student’s choice of courses within the limitations of realities such as class size, course requirements, and possible scheduling conflicts once subjects have been verified with students and parents.

Once a student’s program has been scheduled, changes become not only difficult but also often impossible. Such changes are complicated further by their impact on other courses. Therefore, students are advised to plan carefully before reaching a decision.

In relating present educational decisions to future goals, students should be aware that entrance requirements vary from college to college. Therefore, each student is advised to check college catalogs to determine admission requirements.

COURSE QUALIFICATIONS

In the professional judgment of teachers, Course Qualifications, indicate that students have achieved a level of performance enabling them to be successful in a given course. Students who do not meet these guidelines and seek to enroll in a course without appropriate preparation may face difficulty and possible failure. Since course prerequisites are developed by departments in order to maximize the student’s opportunity for success, enrolling a student in a course without adequate preparation may cause the student to face difficulty or possible failure.

Participation in summer school courses is not usually an adequate means of qualifying for sequential courses. For that reason, students are urged to qualify for courses by meeting requirements through consistent daily work.

Students who are removed administratively from a course because of behavioral problems shall lose credit for the course and not be allowed to make up the course in summer school.

COURSE AND LEVEL CHANGES

PARENTAL CHANGE REQUEST of a teacher’s recommendation must be completed through the respective Department Leader prior to the opening day of school. Counselors will notify parents of any change in original recommendations after final examinations in June. Students who have not met the course/level qualifications and who have elected not to recognize the recommendation of their teachers, counselors, and/or administrators may change levels during the prescribed time for making changes.

COURSE CHANGE REQUESTS will be honored within the first five days of the course commencing.

LEVEL CHANGE REQUESTS must be initiated no later than the first two weeks of a Three-Term Block course or a Semester Block course. SUCH REQUESTS should be initiated through the student’s counselor. Any exceptions will be subject to administrative review. Every effort will be made to provide all students with a tentative schedule before school closes in June. Finalized schedules will be distributed to all students on the first day of school. Changes will be honored within the realistic boundaries of class size, time patterns and the student’s overall program. Students must be sure that all school requirements and course qualifications are met when considering changes to their schedule.

GRADE ADVANCEMENT REQUIREMENTS

The awarding of credit signifies satisfactory achievement of course objectives. These objectives include the completion of daily and long-term assignments within the allotted time span, participation in daily class activities, and a satisfactory level of home study to complement in-class work. The final mark represents the level of achievement a student has attained in meeting course requirements and objectives.

All students must carry a minimum of four (4) credits during each term. Upon successful completion, a student will receive 1½ credits for each Three-Term Block course, 1 credit for each Semester Block course, and ½ credit for each Term Block course.

All students must earn 26 credits for graduation.

The following credits are required for grade advancement:

From Grade

To Grade

Amount of Credit Earned

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

All students must earn 26 credits for graduation. All students must meet the following minimum requirements:

Prescribed Credits:

English (4.5 credits):

To include (1) semester core credit each year and (.5) Essay Writing credit by the end of sophomore year

Fine and Performing Arts (1 credit)

Foreign Languages (2 credits):

Defined as (2) credits of core course work in the same Foreign Language

Mathematics (4 credits):

To include (1) credit junior or senior year

Science (4 credits):

To include (.5) Science, Engineering and Technology credit during the Freshman year (except students taking courses 310 & 311) and (1) credit sophomore, junior and/or senior year

· Social Studies (4 credits):

Sequence of courses: United States History I, United States History II or Advanced Placement United States History; Modern World History or Advanced Placement European History, junior and/or senior elective offerings.

· Wellness (2 credits):

(.5) credits must be taken each school year.

***Seniors must earn a minimum of 5 credits during their senior year with at least 2.5 of those credits earned during the second semester.

Core courses are defined as those taught by Holliston High School faculty members within the prescribed sequence of courses within each department. Outside classes or other off-site classes are not counted as core classes unless the student is a junior or senior in need of credit retrieval, and, ONLY following advanced endorsement from the building principal.

In addition to the prescribed credits listed above, all students must pass the required sections of the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) in order to receive a Holliston High School Diploma.

SCHOOL TO CAREER INTERNSHIP PROGRAM

Holliston High School students are encouraged to develop career interests and abilities through involvement in the School-to-Career Internship Program. Participation in this program is based upon satisfactory completion of prerequisites and administrative approval.

The Internship Program is designed to assist seniors as they begin to make career decisions. Internships afford students the opportunity to understand the relevance of classroom academics to the world of work while learning about available career options. Students must secure the endorsement of their Guidance Counselor and/or an Administrator based upon a proven record of maturity, responsibility, academic success, and good attendance and discipline records.

The Career Internship Program allows students to:

· Identify and explore career fields before they commit to years of preparation.

· Receive academic credit from their high schools for their internship experiences.

· Discover the relevance of their academic studies to work.

· Learn the standards and expectations of the working world.

· Evaluate their employment skills and needs.

· Test their decision-making abilities in workplace settings.

Seniors may elect an internship program as an out-of-school experience. Transportation is the responsibility of the student. The internship is scheduled for a minimum of 60 hours per term.

The student is expected to be present at the internship placement according to the time schedule that has been established between the sponsor and the intern.

The intern is responsible to notify the sponsor if he or she is unable to attend the internship because of illness. Holliston High School expects an intern to take their placement seriously and, consequently attendance is mandatory.

If for some reason the intern decides that the placement is not appropriate, the student must notify, in writing, the coordinator and/or their guidance counselor by the end of the first week of the term as if he or she were enrolled in a “normal program”. The student will then have the option of dropping the internship and taking a class. Interns are required to write weekly journals provided by their coordinator.

Seniors are permitted the maximum of two terms of career internship per year.

All out-of-school work internships/placements must be arranged through the Internship Program. Holliston High School is not responsible for monitoring students at work sites.

Note: A minimum of 75% of a student’s time in any term must be spent in a Holliston High School course and classroom.

Course Numbers: 060 - 1 Term – ½ credit

TEC ONLINE COURSE PROGRAM

Involvement in TEC Online Courses Program courses requires personal and academic motivation and responsibility. The TEC Online Program is specifically designed as an enrichment program. As an enrichment program, credits earned through successful completion of courses may NOT be applied to fulfill graduation requirements***.

There are a limited number of openings for Holliston students and qualified applicants will fill these slots as a function of the regular scheduling process. Students may choose from available TEC Online courses provided that they meet the prerequisite (if indicated), and that course is not available at Holliston High School. All students must begin the process by being enrolled with a complete complement of Holliston High School courses (8 credits). Students in grades 9 through 11 will enroll in a TEC course as a ninth class. Grade 12 students may take a TEC course in lieu of one semester or two term electives if they are enrolled in a Holliston High School program that fulfills all other graduation requirements.

Academic levels for TEC courses will be indicated with the course descriptions. TEC courses will be granted credit, will be included in Holliston High School GPA calculations, and become a part of the student’s permanent transcript.

Additionally, this program is available to junior and senior students who are in need of credit retrieval program, ONLY following advanced endorsement from the building principal.

For further information about the TEC Online Program, including enrollment information, please contact the Guidance Department at the high school and visit http://www.tec-coop.org/alt-skls-online.html

*** Students engaged in a credit retrieval program are exempt from this policy statement.

COURSE LISTINGS

	ENGLISH DEPARTMENT
	Grade 9 & 10 Programs
NUMBER	COURSE TITLE AND LEVEL	GRADES
100	English 9: College Preparatory II	9
102	English 9: College Preparatory I	9
104	English 9: Honors	9
106	English 10: College Preparatory II	10
108	English 10: College Preparatory I	10
110	English 10: Honors	10
112	Essay Writing: College Preparatory II	9 – 10
114	Essay Writing: College Preparatory I	9 – 10
116	Essay Writing: Honors	9 – 10
119	Essay Writing II: College Preparatory II	9 – 12
	General Elective Programs
118	Journalism: College Preparatory I	9 – 11
122	Creative Writing: College Preparatory I	9 – 10
	Grade 11 & 12 Programs
124	World Literature: College Preparatory I	11 – 12
126	World Literature: Honors	11 – 12
128	Fiction & Drama: College Preparatory II	11 – 12
130	Fiction & Drama: College Preparatory I	11 – 12
	Grade 11 & 12 Programs
132	Fiction & Drama: Honors	11 – 12
134	American Voices from Many Cultures: College Preparatory II	11 – 12
136	American Voices from Many Cultures: College Preparatory I	11 – 12
137	American Voices from Many Cultures: Honors	11 – 12
138	20^th Century American Novels: College Preparatory I	11 – 12
140	20^th Century American Novels: Honors	11 – 12
142	Conflict & Competition in Literature: College Preparatory II	11 – 12
143	Science Fiction: Honors	11 – 12
144	Science Fiction: College Preparatory II	11 – 12
145	Science Fiction: College Preparatory I	11 – 12
146	20^th Century World Novels: College Preparatory I	11 – 12
147	20^th Century World Novels: Honors	11 – 12
148	AP English Literature & Composition	12
	Grade 11 & 12 Elective Programs
152	Writing Studio: Honors	11 – 12
153	Writing Studio II: Honors	11 – 12
154	SAT/ACT Preparation & Reading for College: College Preparatory I	11 only

	FINE & PERFORMING ARTS DEPARTMENT
	Fine Art Majors Program
801	Introduction to Studio Art: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
802	Art I: Honors	9 – 12
804	Art II: Honors	10 – 12
806	Art III: Honors	10 – 12
809	Advanced Portfolio: Honors	11 - 12
	General Fine Arts Elective Program
811	Graphic Design: College Preparatory I	10 – 12
816	Painting I: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
818	Painting II: College Preparatory I	10 – 12
820	Printmaking I: College Preparatory I	9 - 12
822	Printmaking II: College Preparatory I	11 - 12
825	Introduction to 3D Ceramics/Sculpture: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
827	Advanced 3D Ceramics/Sculpture: College Preparatory I	10 – 12
829	Public Art – STUDIO370: College Preparatory I	10 - 12
	Drama Program
880	Drama Workshop I: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
882	Drama Workshop II: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
884	“Drama of the Here & Now” Performance Workshop: CP I	9 – 12
886	Director’s Workshop: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
888	Improvisation: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
890	Stagecraft and Design: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
	Music Program
871	Afro-Cuban Drumming Lab: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
873	Middle Eastern Drumming Lab: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
874	Bach, Beatles, Beyonce & Broadway: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
875	Beginning Guitar: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
859	Beginning Guitar II: College Preparatory I	9 - 12
840/842	Chorus Class: College Preparatory I (for credit and grade)	9 – 12
876	Composition and Arranging: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
877	Piano Lab: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
878	Songwriting: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
879	Stage Performance Technique: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
872	Vocal Methods: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
869	Music in Movies and Television: College Preparatory I	9 – 12

	FOREIGN LANGUAGE DEPARTMENT
	French Program
500	French I: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
502	French II: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
506	French Language 9: College Preparatory I – French Immersion	9
508	French III: College Preparatory I	10 – 12
510	French III: Honors	10 – 12
512	French Culture & Civilization: Honors	10
514	French IV: College Preparatory I	10 – 12
516	French IV: Honors	10 – 12
518	Advanced French Studies: Honors	11 – 12
520	French V: Honors	11 – 12
522	Advanced Placement French Language	12
524	French Culture and Conversation: Honors	11 - 12
	Spanish Programs
537	Principles of Spanish I: College Preparatory II	9 – 12
539	Principles of Spanish II: College Preparatory II	9 – 12
542	High School Spanish I: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
543	Spanish IA: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
545	High School Spanish II: College Preparatory I	10 – 12
546	Spanish II: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
550	Spanish III: College Preparatory I	10 – 12
552	Spanish III: Honors	10 – 12
554	Spanish IV: College Preparatory I	10 – 12
556	Spanish IV: Honors	10 – 12
557	Spanish V: College Preparatory I	11 – 12
558	Spanish V: Honors	11 – 12
560	Advanced Placement Spanish Language	11 – 12
562	Spanish Culture and Conversation: Honors	11 – 12
	Latin Elective and Core Programs
580	Latin I: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
582	Latin II: College Preparatory I (Elective-offered alternate years)	9 – 12
584	Latin for Practical Applications I: CP II	9 – 12
586	Latin for Practical Applications II: CP II	9 - 12
	Chinese Elective Program
590	Mandarin Chinese I: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
592	Mandarin Chinese II: College Preparatory I	10 – 12

	MATHEMATICS & BUSINESS DEPARTMENT
	Mathematics Programs
401	Algebra A: College Preparatory II	9 – 12
403	Algebra B: College Preparatory II	9 – 12
402	Algebra A: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
404	Algebra B: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
406	Geometry: College Preparatory II	10 – 12
408	Geometry: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
410	Geometry: Honors	9 – 10
412	Algebra II: College Preparatory II	10 – 12
414	Algebra II: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
416	Algebra II: Honors	9 – 10
417	Advanced Algebra Topics: College Preparatory I	10 – 12
418	Advanced Algebra: College Preparatory I	10 – 12
420	Advanced Algebra: Honors	10 – 12
421	Functions, Statistics and Trigonometry: College Preparatory I	11 – 12
422	Trigonometry: College Preparatory I	11 – 12
424	Trigonometry: Honors	10 – 12
426	Pre-Calculus: College Preparatory I	11 – 12
428	Pre-Calculus: Honors	11 – 12
431	Introduction to Calculus: Honors	12
433	Math Modeling and Analysis: College Preparatory I	11 – 12
432	Probability & Statistics: College Preparatory I	11 – 12
434	Advanced Placement Statistics	11 – 12
436	Advanced Placement Calculus AB	11 – 12
440	Financial Literacy I: Money, Saving, Investing – College Preparatory I	11 – 12
441	Financial Literacy II: Money, Saving, Investing – College Preparatory I	12
444	SAT/ACT Preparatory Mathematics: College Preparatory I	11 – 12
	Business Program
600	Computer Applications: College Preparatory I	9 – 10
606	Web Design: College Preparatory I	10 – 12
610	Introduction to Business: College Preparatory I	10 – 12
611	Presentation Skills: College Preparatory I (Term Course)	10 - 12
614	Accounting: College Preparatory I	10 – 12
618	Business Law: College Preparatory I	10 – 12
621	Entrepreneurship: College Preparatory I (Prerequisite required)	11 – 12

	SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT
	Applied and Physical Science Programs
305	Science, Engineering & Technology (S.E.T.): College Preparatory I	9
306	Applied Science: College Preparatory II	10 – 12
	Life Science Programs
310	Fundamentals of Biology - Part 1: College Preparatory II	9
311	Fundamentals of Biology - Part 2: College Preparatory II	9
312	Biology: College Preparatory I	9
314	Biology: Honors	9
316	Advanced Placement Biological Science	11 – 12
318	Anatomy & Physiology: College Preparatory I	10 – 12
320	Anatomy & Physiology: Honors	10 – 12
322	Environmental Science: College Preparatory I	10 – 12
323	Environmental Science: Honors	10 – 12
325	Advanced Placement Environmental Science	11 - 12
327	Marine Biology: Honors	10 – 12
329	Marine Biology: College Preparatory I	10 – 12
	Physics Programs
358	Applied Physics: College Preparatory II	10
360	Physics : College Preparatory I	10
362	Physics : Honors	10
364	Advanced Placement Physics	11 - 12
	Chemistry Programs
340	Chemistry: College Preparatory II	10 – 12
342	Chemistry: College Preparatory I	10 – 12
344	Chemistry: Honors	10 – 12
348	Advanced Placement Chemistry	11 – 12
	Enrichment Term Programs
380	Astronomy: College Preparatory I	10 – 12
387	Chemistry Explorations and Applications: Honors	11 - 12
392	Chemistry Explorations and Applications: College Preparatory I	11 - 12
382	Exploring Forensic Science: College Preparatory I	10 – 12
383	Advanced Forensic Science : College Preparatory I	11 - 12
386	Meteorology: College Preparatory I	9 – 11
389	Principles of Genetics: Honors	10 - 12
393	Principles of Genetics: College Preparatory I	10 - 12
390	Biology Explorations and Applications: Honors	11 - 12
394	Biology Explorations and Applications: College Preparatory I	11 - 12
391	Physics Explorations and Applications: Honors	11 - 12
395	Physics Explorations and Applications: College Preparatory I	11 - 12
	Technology Programs
700/702	Communication Arts & Sciences Training I & II: Honors	11 – 12
710	Exploring Technology: College Preparatory I	9 – 10
712	Architectural Technology: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
721	Engineering Technology: College Preparatory I	10 – 12
771	Electronics & Robotics: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
781	A+ Certification Preparation: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
785	3-D Computer Animation: College Preparatory I	11 – 12
787	Construction Technology: College Preparatory I	9 – 12

	SOCIAL STUDIES DEPARTMENT
	Grade 9 Courses
207	United States History I: College Preparatory II	9
208	United States History I: College Preparatory I	9
209	United States History I: Honors	9
	Grade 10 Courses
210	United States History II: College Preparatory II	10
212	United States History II: College Preparatory I	10
214	United States History II: Honors	10
216	AP United States History	10
	Grade 11 Courses
220	Modern World History: College Preparatory II	11
222	Modern World History: College Preparatory I	11
224	Modern World History: Honors	11
226	AP European History	11
	Grade 11-12 Elective Programs
250	20^th Century Popular Culture: College Preparatory I	11 – 12
252	Psychology: College Preparatory I	11 – 12
254	Psychology: Honors	11 – 12
260	Sociology: College Preparatory I	11 – 12
262	Sociology: Honors	11 – 12
270	Government: College Preparatory I	11 – 12
271	Government: Honors	11 – 12
272	Advanced Placement Government	11 – 12

	WELLNESS DEPARTMENT
	Grade 9 and 10 Programs
071	Wellness 9: College Preparatory I	9
073	Wellness 10: College Preparatory I	10
	Grade 11 and 12 Programs
076	Child Caring	11 – 12
078	CPR & First Aid	11 – 12
080	Human Development	11 – 12
081	Life Strategies & Psychology of Performance	11 – 12
084	Rock Climbing & Leadership	11 – 12
093	CrossFit & Nutrition	11 – 12
094	Relationships & Sexuality	11 – 12
096	Exercise Injury & Prevention	11 – 12

	SPECIAL EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
900	Learning Support Class 900T1 (Term 1), 900T2 (Term 2), 900T3, (Term 3), 900T4 (Term 4)	9 - 10
901	Learning Support Class 901T1 (Term 1), 901T2 (Term 2), 901 T3 (Term 3), 901T4 (Term 4)	11 - 12
912	Reading Support Class 912S1 (Fall Semester), 912S2 (Spring Semester)	9 - 10
914	Reading Support Class 914S1 (Fall Semester), 914S2 (Spring Semester)	11-12
976	Math Fundamentals	9 - 12

	TEC ONLINE OFFERINGS
NUMBER	COURSE TITLE AND LEVEL	GRADES
	ENGLISH OFFERINGS
1000	Unforgettable Short Stories: Reading, Writing, and Critical Thinking: CP I	11 - 12
1002	News Reporting: College Preparatory I	9 - 12
1004	Literature and Film: The Challenge of Adaptation	9 - 12
1006	Writer Seminar	11 - 12
	FOREIGN LANGUAGE OFFERINGS
1020	Spanish For Business: Honors	12
1022	Latin and Greek: Honors	9 – 12
1024	Mandarin III	11 - 12
	SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY OFFERING
1040	Cybercrime and Security: College Preparatory I	11 - 12
1060	Introduction to Computer Science	11 - 12
	SOCIAL STUDIES OFFERINGS
1050	The Archaeology of Ancient Greece: College Preparatory I	9 - 12
1052	Facing History and Ourselves: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
1057	Irish History	11 - 12
1058	The Archaeology of Ancient Rome: College Preparatory I	9 - 12
1059	Women in American Society: A Thematic History of Gender Inequality	11 - 12

ENGLISH DEPARTMENT OFFERINGS

The English core curriculum consists of a freshman and sophomore program emphasizing writing techniques, reading with a focus on literature study, and elements of fiction and nonfiction, vocabulary development and enrichment, study techniques, creative thinking; and a junior and senior program emphasizing a more world-wide selection of literature, as well as continued composition development.<O:P>

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In the current program, grades 9 and 10 are considered foundation years in which students are expected to develop the basic reading and writing skills necessary for success in the various courses in grades 11 and 12. For this reason, students must take the core course in grades 9 and 10, but may choose additional electives to develop a special interest or skill. English 9 and English 10 may not be taken/re-taken concurrently.

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Summer reading lists will be announced in the spring through classroom teachers, the Principal’s Newsletter, and may be found on the school’s Website.<O:P>

Core English courses are defined as those taught on-site by Holliston High School’s English Department, as indicated in the English Department offerings. Outside classes, such as TEC Online or other off-site classes, are not counted as core courses unless part of a credit retrieval project endorsed by the principal.

COURSE LISTINGS

NUMBER	COURSE TITLE AND LEVEL	GRADES

	Grade 9 & 10 Programs
100	English 9: College Preparatory II	9
102	English 9: College Preparatory I	9
104	English 9: Honors	9
106	English 10: College Preparatory II	10
108	English 10: College Preparatory I	10
110	English 10: Honors	10
112	Essay Writing: College Preparatory II	9 – 10
114	Essay Writing: College Preparatory I	9 – 10
116	Essay Writing: Honors	9 – 10
119	Essay Writing II: College Preparatory II	9 – 12

	General Elective Programs
118	Journalism: College Preparatory I	9 – 11
122	Creative Writing: College Preparatory I	9 – 10

	Grade 11 & 12 Programs
124	World Literature: College Preparatory I	11 – 12
126	World Literature: Honors	11 – 12
128	Fiction & Drama: College Preparatory II	11 – 12
130	Fiction & Drama: College Preparatory I	11 – 12
NUMBER	COURSE TITLE AND LEVEL	GRADES

	Grade 11 & 12 Programs
132	Fiction & Drama: Honors	11 – 12
134	American Voices from Many Cultures: College Preparatory II	11 – 12
136	American Voices from Many Cultures: College Preparatory I	11 – 12
137	American Voices from Many Cultures: Honors	11 – 12
138	20^th Century American Novels: College Preparatory I	11 – 12
140	20^th Century American Novels: Honors	11 – 12
142	Conflict & Competition in Literature: College Preparatory II	11 – 12
143	Science Fiction: Honors	11 – 12
144	Science Fiction: College Preparatory II	11 – 12
145	Science Fiction: College Preparatory I	11 – 12
146	20^th Century World Novels: College Preparatory I	11 – 12
147	20^th Century World Novels: Honors	11 – 12
148	AP English Literature & Composition	12

	Grade 11 & 12 Elective Programs
152	Writing Studio: Honors	11 – 12
153	Writing Studio II: Honors	11 – 12
154	SAT/ACT Preparation & Reading for College: College Preparatory I	11 only

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GRADES 9 AND 10 ENGLISH PROGRAMS<O:P>

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Students in grades 9 and 10 will be placed according to previous performance, teacher recommendation, and standardized test scores if available, and the guidelines that follow.<O:P></O:P>

Academic Characteristics by Ability Level

Honors: These are honors level programs with high standards and expectations for students in terms of skills and production. Reading and writing assignments and activities are extensive and demanding in terms of time and effort. Students who are recommended for these courses:

Can create an essay at an advanced level -

using a topic sentence in each paragraph.

supporting each topic sentence with detailed evidence.

using logical paragraph divisions.

using basic grammatical structure.

using correct punctuation and more complex sentence structure.

demonstrating insight into the topic.

Can read with understanding and insight -

recognizing the purpose and characteristics of various genres.

recognizing and analyzing figurative language.

analyzing character values, motivation, and development.

applying the skills of active and critical reading.

Demonstrate –

intellectual curiosity.

an appropriate academic attitude (respect and appreciation for learning).

self-motivation and the ability to work both cooperatively and independently.

a degree of mastery of study and organizational skills.

College Preparatory I: Students who are recommended for courses at this level:

Can create an essay at a developmental level* -

using a topic sentence in each paragraph.

supporting each topic sentence with detailed evidence.

using logical paragraph divisions.

sequencing paragraphs logically.

Can read with understanding and insight -

recognizing the characteristics of various genres.

recognizing figurative language and making meaning from it.

recognizing and analyzing character motivation and development.

Demonstrate –

an appropriate academic attitude (respect and appreciation for learning).

the ability to work both cooperatively and independently.

College Preparatory II: Students who are recommended for courses at this level:

Can create an essay at a developmental level* -

identifying main idea.

identifying and sequencing support for main idea.

using a topic sentence.

using correct sentence structure.

Need reinforcement in -

strengthening skills in identifying and formulating main ideas.

developing support for the idea.

sequencing.

dealing with inference.

Need continuing support in -

constructing meaning from reading.

differentiating among various genres.

understanding figurative language.

understanding character motivation and development.

Demonstrate -

a willingness to learn.

a willingness to work cooperatively.

* “Developmental” is concerned with expanding the student’s present language skills/study to a further stage.

GRADE 9 PROGRAMS<O:P>

The focus for Grade 9 English is the study of literature by genre: short story, drama, poetry, nonfiction essay, and novels. The focus in writing is on composing of the paragraph, essay, and short research paper, although aspects of imaginative writing will also be addressed. Speaking, listening, essentials of grammar, mechanics and usage, and study skills are other components of the foundation curriculum in all grade 9 English classes.

100	English 9: College Preparatory II
Grades:		9	Semester Block	Credits:	1

English College Preparatory II is designed for students who have experienced some degree of academic challenge in previous English classes. Students receive more academic support and extended time.

Students will be challenged to strengthen their inferential reasoning and critical essay writing abilities. There will be nightly homework assignments in which students can expect to be assigned readings with accompanying short writing assignments. Students can also expect to complete formal writing assignments, share work with the class on a regular basis, and work cooperatively on group presentations to the class.

102	English 9: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9	Semester Block	Credits:	1

This course will challenge students to strengthen their inferential reasoning and critical essay writing abilities. There will be a substantial amount of nightly homework. Students can expect to be assigned readings with accompanying writing assignments. Students can also expect to complete several formal writing assignments, present material to the class on a regular basis, and be responsible for independently interpreting outside reading materials.

104	English 9: Honors
Grades:		9	Semester Block	Credits:	1

The pace of this class is very rigorous and will significantly challenge students to strengthen their inferential reasoning and critical essay writing abilities. There will be a substantial amount of nightly homework. Students can expect to be assigned daily readings with accompanying writing assignments. Students can also expect to complete several formal writing assignments, present material to the class on a regular basis, and be responsible for independently interpreting outside reading selections. <O:P>

GRADE 10 ENGLISH PROGRAMS<O:P>

The reading focus in Grade 10 is on American Literature. Subject matter will include both short and long selections of American literature from the Puritans to the first half of the 20^th century, with emphasis on accurate comprehension of content, as well as inferential understanding of an author’s purpose, voice, point of view, tone, and style.

<O:P></O:P>

Students will be exposed to many of the readings and writings that have shaped American ideas. Major emphasis will be placed on the development of various forms of the essay. Requirements include class discussion, critical papers, tests, and a research paper.

106	English 10: College Preparatory II
Grades:		10	Semester Block	Credits:	1

This course is designed for students who have experienced some degree of academic challenge in previous English classes. The course offers more support and extended time for the instruction of skills common to all English 10 courses.

Students will be challenged to strengthen their inferential reasoning and critical essay writing abilities.

There will be nightly homework assignments in which students can expect to be assigned readings with accompanying short writing assignments. Students can also expect to complete formal writing assignments, share work with the class on a regular basis, and work cooperatively on group presentations to the class.

108	English 10: College Preparatory I
Grades:		10	Semester Block	Credits:	1

110	English 10: Honors
Grades:		10	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum of “B+” in #104-English 9: Honors or “A-“ in #102-English 9: College Preparatory I

The pace of this class is very rigorous, assuming a strong grasp of literary term and critical skills, and will significantly challenge students to strengthen their inferential reasoning and critical essay writing abilities. There will be a substantial amount of nightly homework. Students can expect to be assigned daily readings with accompanying writing assignments. Students can also expect to complete several formal writing assignments, present material to the class on a regular basis, and be responsible for independently interpreting outside reading materials.

GRADES 9 AND 10 ESSAY WRITING PROGRAMS<O:P>

112	Essay Writing: College Preparatory II
Grades:		9 - 10	Term Block	Credits:	½

Students appropriate for this course have received a recommendation of prior year’s core English teacher.

This course is designed to address the specific skills necessary to good essay writing. The course will focus on overcoming any general “class-wide” weaknesses as identified by the Grade 8 MCAS tests and on strengthening writing skills in preparation for the

Grade 10 MCAS tests. Students will become familiar with strategies to address MCAS Open Response Questions and the Long Composition Essay, as well as with the rubrics used to assess them. Final evaluation in the course will be determined in part by progress and growth in writing skills. This course fulfills the essay requirement for graduation.<O:P>

114	Essay Writing: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9 - 10	Term Block	Credits:	½

Recommendation of prior year’s core English teacher, separate from the English recommendation

</O:P>

This course is designed to address the specific skills necessary in good essay writing. The course will focus on literary analysis essays, as well as argumentative and persuasive essays, which encompass all the other essay strategies. The course will include activities directed toward overcoming any general “class-wide” weaknesses as identified by the Grade 8 MCAS tests and on strengthening writing skills in preparation for the Grade 10 MCAS tests. Students will become familiar with strategies to address MCAS Open Response Questions and the Long Composition Essay, as well as with the rubrics used to assess them. This course fulfills the essay requirement for graduation. <O:P>Students will be expected to complete numerous practice essays and several final draft essays.

116	Essay Writing: Honors
Grades:		9 - 10	Term Block	Credits:	½

Recommendation of prior year’s core English teacher, separate from the English recommendation

This course is designed to address the specific skills necessary to good essay writing. The course will focus on literary analysis essays, as well as argumentative and persuasive essays, which encompass all the other essay strategies. TThe emphasis will be on encouraging student writers to develop their ideas in further depth and complexity. This course fulfills the essay requirement for graduation. <O:P>Students will be expected to complete numerous practice essays and several final draft essays. It is understood that students in this level already have a firm grasp of the basics of essay writing.

119	Essay Writing II: College Preparatory II
Grades:		9 - 12	Term Block	Credits:	½

Recommendation of prior year’s core English teacher, separate from the English recommendation

</O:P>

This course is designed to further address the specific skills to good essay writing. The course will focus on overcoming weaknesses identified by the course Essay Writing I and by the Grade 8 MCAS tests and on strengthening writing skills in preparation for the Grade 10 MCAS test essays. Students will become familiar with strategies to address MCAS Open Response Questions and the Long Composition Essay, as well as with the rubrics used to assess them. Final evaluation in the course will be determined in part by progress and growth in writing skills.

GENERAL ELECTIVE PROGRAMS<O:P>

118	Journalism: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9 - 11	Term Block	Credits:	½

</O:P>

Students will study and practice the fundamentals of writing in the journalistic styles of news writing, feature writing, and editorial writing. They will study and practice information-gathering techniques such as interviews, press conferences, and research. Students will learn to write under the pressure of deadlines, as well as to proofread and to edit. StudenSjStud

StudTerminology specific to the field of journalism and issues relevant to the craft of journalism will be explored, particularly journalistic ethics. Students will write for publication.<O:P>

122	Creative Writing: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9 – 10	Term Block	Credits:	½

</O:P>

Creative Writing is designed to enhance students’ understanding of literature from the author’s perspective. It will allow students to tap their imaginations and explore ideas, while expanding their writing, reading, and thinking skills. This course will begin with the importance of the word and the image to convey poetic meaning. It will also focus on the skills of story telling - such as inventing and developing characters, writing scenes, developing conflict, using sensory details to create a vivid experience for the reader, choosing a point of view, and overcoming writer’s block. An essential element of learning to write is reading to write; students will read the works of skilled writers, poets, and playwrights, exploring techniques and strategies which they might apply to their own work. The structure of this course will be that of the writing process: prewriting, drafting, peer and teacher conferences, revising, and publishing. Students will be given the time to write, as well as the choice of products. Every student will develop a substantial portfolio by the end of the course.<O:P>

GRADES 11 AND 12 ENGLISH PROGRAMS<O:P>

Junior and Senior courses offerings allow a wider range of selections for students. Each 11^th and 12^th grade student must select a semester course each year from the core semester courses. In addition, students may select additional core or elective English courses.

Students have the opportunity to select classes which best allow them to challenge themselves academically, as well as classes whose curriculum format may be best suited to their individual reading preferences. Colleges and universities also tend to organize their literature offerings with this same set of characteristics. With that in mind, the English Department offers a range of 11^th and 12^th grade core courses: novel-based courses, anthology and mixed genre courses and special topic or genre-focused courses. Novel-based courses offer the books most commonly read by high school graduates, as well as some more contemporary selections. The structure of these courses mirror the college experience of extended close reading on a single subject. Anthology-based and mixed-genre courses offer a sampling of many forms of the written word. Students have the opportunity to examine themes and literary elements in an array of reading selections of varying lengths. Many colleges and universities use the same anthologies for required introductory level literature and composition classes. Special-topic or genre-focused courses are centered on a particular type of subject matter. These courses reflect the college experience of highly specialized literature study. Students who are especially drawn to a special genre or who might wish to pursue their own writing in these genres may prefer this sort of course.

Depending on their own preferences from their experiences in grade 9 and 10 courses, students may select any combination of novel, anthology or special topic courses for their 11^th and 12^th grade years and find a variety of options and rigorous curriculums at all levels. While there are courses offered at all levels, students who have enrolled in college preparatory II courses in 9^th and 10^th grade may find that they are ready for the challenge of a college preparatory I class, especially if the focus of the reading format is oriented more to their strengths and preferences.

Advanced Placement Pathway

11 #124- World Literature: College Preparatory (A), #126-World Literature: Honors (B+),#140-20^th Century American Novels: Honors (A), #147-20^th Century World Novels: Honors (A)

12 #148-Advanced Placement English Literature (please see prerequisite in course description)

Honors Course offerings

#140-20^th Century American Novel (novel-based)

#147-20^th Century World Novels (novel-based)

#126-World Literature (anthology/special topic)

#132-Fiction & Drama (anthology)

#137-American Voices from Many Cultures (anthology/special topic)

#143- Science Fiction (special topic)

College Preparatory I Course offerings

#138-20^th Century American Novel (novel-based)

#146-20^th Century World Novels (novel-based)

#124-World Literature (anthology/special topic)

#130-Fiction & Drama (anthology)

#136-American Voices from Many Cultures (anthology/special topic)

#145-Science Fiction (special topic)

College Preparatory II Course offerings

#128-Fiction & Drama (anthology)

#134-American Voices from Many Cultures (anthology/special topic)

#144-Science Fiction (special topic)

#142-Conflict & Competition in Literature (special topic)

124	World Literature: College Preparatory I
Grades:		11 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

This course introduces students to literary works from a wide range of countries and cultures. Through this blend of classic and contemporary literature, students will explore ideas and themes common to humanity across time and distance. Reading and response, analytical papers, tests and quizzes, individual and group presentations, and independent research are course components. Students can expect nightly readings (approximately 20-35 pages a night) of material that range from religious texts to philosophical treatise to poetry, fiction, and non-fiction. Students will also be expected to participate in class discussion, complete a formal writing assignment with almost every unit, and complete a research paper.

126	World Literature: Honors
Grades:		11 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “B+” in a previous Honors level course or an “A-“ in a previous college preparatory I level course.

This course introduces students to literary works from a wide range of countries and cultures. Through this blend of classic and contemporary literature, students will explore ideas and themes common to humanity across time and distance. Extensive reading (approximately 30-40 pages a night) and response, critical papers, tests and quizzes, and research are course components.<O:P> Students can expect nightly readings of material that range from religious texts to philosophical treatise to poetry, fiction, and non-fiction. Students will also be expected to participate in class discussion, complete a formal

writing assignment with almost every unit, and complete a substantial research paper.

Students will also be expected to independently interpret outside reading selections. The pace of this class is very rigorous and assumes a very high reading level and a strong grasp of literary terms and analytical skills.

</O:P>

128	Fiction & Drama: College Preparatory II
Grades:		11 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

This course will focus on various types of drama and short fiction, including, but not limited to, the short story. Students will read and study a selection of high-interest material from America and around the world. They will be expected to complete readings (approximately 10-20 pages per night with longer works) along with written responses to the reading. Students will have the opportunity to expand writing skills in various assignments, including a research paper.<O:P>

</O:P>

130	Fiction & Drama: College Preparatory I
Grades:		11 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

</O:P>

This course will focus on various types of drama and short fiction, including, but not limited to, the short story. Students will read and study a selection of high-interest material from America and around the world. Requirements include readings (approximately 20-35 pages a night with longer works), written responses, class discussion, tests, critical papers, and a research paper.

132	Fiction & Drama: Honors
Grades:		11 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

</O:P>

In this fast-paced high-level course, students will read and study a variety of short fiction and drama, analyzing the structure and form as well as character, theme, tone, and diction. A high level of reading comprehension is expected. Students will be expected to complete readings (approximately 30-40 pages a night with longer works) along with written responses to the reading. Students will have the opportunity to write in a variety of genres, including a major research paper.<O:P>

134	American Voices from Many Cultures – College Preparatory II
Grades:		11 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

This course is designed for those students who want to hear the voices not often heard in the survey of American literature course. The course readings are primarily works that represent America’s many cultures. While the focus will be on contemporary works, students will also explore earlier voices, which are just now being heard and appreciated. There are readings (approximately 10-20 pages a night) along with written responses. Students will be encouraged to develop their own literary voice in writing assignments of various genres, including a research component.<O:P> The course will have a slower pace and will be more selective in its readings as compared to the College Preparatory I course.

136	American Voices from Many Cultures: College Preparatory I
Grades:		11 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

This course is designed for those students who want to hear the voices not often heard in the survey of American literature course. The course readings are primarily works that represent America’s many cultures. While the focus will be on contemporary works, students will also explore earlier voices, which are just now being heard and appreciated. Requirements include readings (approximately 20-35 pages a night), written responses, class discussion, tests, critical papers, and a research paper. Students will be encouraged to develop their own literary voice in writing assignments of various genres. The course will have a slower pace and will be more selective in its readings as compared to the Honors course.

137	American Voices from Many Cultures: Honors
Grades:		11 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

This course is designed for those students who want to hear the voices not often heard in the survey of American literature course. The course readings are primarily works that represent America’s many cultures. While the focus will be on contemporary works, students will also explore earlier voices, which are just now being heard and appreciated. Requirements include readings (approximately 30-40 pages a night), written responses, class discussion, tests, critical papers, and a major research paper. <O:P>Students will be encouraged to develop their own literary voice in writing assignments of various genres.

138	20^th Century American Novels: College Preparatory I
Grades:		11 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

</O:P>

This course combines a general survey of major works of the current century with writing skill development needed by the college-bound student. The literature of the course emphasizes, but is not limited to, representative novels by significant American writers - Fitzgerald, Hemingway, Vonnegut, and others. The student will continue to improve essay writing skills through logical and coherent development of ideas. Requirements include readings (approximately 20-35 pages a night), written responses, class discussion, tests, critical papers, and a major research paper.<O:P>

140	20^th Century American Novels: Honors
Grades:		11 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “B+” in a previous honors level course or an “A-“ in a previous college preparatory I level course.

</O:P>

This course combines a general survey of major works of the current century with writing skill development needed by the college-bound student. The literature of the course emphasizes, but is not limited to, representative novels by significant American writers - Fitzgerald, Hemingway, Vonnegut, and others. The student will continue to improve essay writing skills through logical and coherent development of ideas. Requirements include readings (approximately 30-40 pages a night), written responses, class discussion, tests, critical papers, and a major research paper.<O:P>

142	Conflict & Competition in Literature: College Preparatory II
Grades:		11 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

</O:P>

This course combines a general survey of major works with writing skill development needed by the college-bound student. Students will examine the human tendency, and perhaps need, to create a mythology around war and sport, i.e. conflict and competition. The literature of the course emphasizes, but is not limited to, representative texts by significant fiction and non-fiction writers— Hemingway, Kinsella, Malamud, Joseph Campbell, and others. Students will investigate certain texts with greater depth and focus through research assignments, comparison to film, and current periodicals. The students will continue to improve essay writing skills through logical and coherent development of ideas. Requirements include approximately 10-20 pages of reading per night, written responses, class discussion, daily journal entries, tests and critical papers.

143	Science Fiction: Honors
Grades:		11 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Science fiction and fantasy writers envision positive and negative alternatives to their own societies. This course will explore a variety of these alternatives. Developing writing skills, both creative and analytical, is a major course objective. Students will have the opportunity to create their own science fiction or fantasy world in a short story. Requirements include readings (approximately 30-40 pages a night), written responses, class discussion, tests, critical papers, and a major research paper.

144	Science Fiction: College Preparatory II
Grades:		11 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

</O:P>

Science fiction and fantasy writers envision positive and negative alternatives to their own societies. This course will explore a variety of these alternatives. Developing writing skills, both creative and analytical, is a major course objective. Students will have the opportunity to create their own science fiction or fantasy world in a short story. Requirements include approximately 10-20 pages of reading per night, written responses, class discussion, tests and critical papers.

<O:P>

145	Science Fiction: College Preparatory I
Grades:		11 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

</O:P>

Science fiction and fantasy writers envision positive and negative alternatives to their own societies. This course will explore a variety of these alternatives. Developing writing skills, both creative and analytical, is a major course objective. Students will have the opportunity to create their own science fiction or fantasy world in a short story. Requirements include readings (approximately 20-35 pages a night), written responses, class discussion, tests, critical papers, and a research paper.

<O:P>

146	20^th Century World Novels: College Preparatory I
Grades:		11 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

</O:P>

This course combines a general survey of major works of the current century with writing skill development needed by the college-bound student. The literature of the course emphasizes, but is not limited to, representative novels by significant 20^th century world writers— Camus, Joyce, Kafka, Marquez and others. Students will investigate certain texts with greater depth and focus through research assignments. The student will continue to improve essay writing skills through logical and coherent development of ideas. Requirements include readings (approximately 20-35 pages a night), written responses, class discussion, tests, critical papers, and a major research paper.

<O:P>

147	20^th Century World Novels: Honors
Grades:		11 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

</O:P>

This course combines a general survey of major works of the current century with writing skill development needed by the college-bound student. The literature of the course emphasizes, but is not limited to, representative novels by significant world writers-- Camus, Joyce, Marquez, Kafka, and others. This course combines a general survey of major works with writing skill development needed by the college-bound student. Students will investigate certain texts with greater depth and focus through research assignments. Requirements include readings (approximately 30-40 pages a night), written responses, daily journal entries, class discussion, tests, critical papers, and a major research paper.

<O:P>

148	Advanced Placement English Literature & Composition
Grades:		12	Three Term Block	Credits:	1½

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “B+” in#126-World Literature: Honors or “A“ in #124-World Literature: College Preparatory I, #140-20^th Century American Novels: Honors, or #147-20^th Century World Novels: Honors

This intensive study of different literary genres, types of criticism, literary language, and the elements of fiction prepares students for college level work by exposing them to college level readings and teaching them the skills of literary criticism. Several classics and modern works will be studied in depth, while outside reading projects will reflect students’ individual interests. Students will be expected to take the Advanced Placement Examination in May for college placement and/or credit.<O:P>

GRADES 11 AND 12 ENGLISH ELECTIVE PROGRAMS<O:P>

152	Writing Studio: Honors
Grades:		11 - 12	Term Block	Credits:	½

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation

</O:P>

Writing Studio is designed to enhance students’ understanding of literature from the author’s perspective. It will allow students to tap their imaginations and explore ideas, while expanding their writing, reading, and thinking skills. This course will begin with the importance of the word and the image to convey poetic meaning. It will also focus on the skills of story telling - such as inventing and developing characters, writing scenes, developing conflict, using sensory details to create a vivid experience for the reader, choosing a point of view, and overcoming writer’s block. An essential element of learning to write is reading to write; students will read the works of skilled writers, poets, and playwrights, exploring techniques and strategies which they might apply to their own works. The structure of this course will be that of the writing process: prewriting, drafting, peer and teacher conferences, revising, and publishing. Students will be given the time to write, as well as the choice of products. Every student will develop a substantial portfolio by the end of the course.<O:P></O:P>

153	Writing Studio II: Honors
Grades:		11 - 12	Term Block	Credits:	½

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or successfully completed #122-Creative Writing: College Preparatory and/or #152-Writing Studio: Honors.

</O:P>

Writing Studio II is an opportunity for writers to expand on the portfolio of work they developed in Creative Writing and/or Writing Studio. Students will approach the creative process in the same manner, building on the importance of the word and the poetic image to convey meaning. There will, however, be greater opportunity to focus on fiction writing and publishing in this course. Students will be given the time to write and their choice of products. Students will focus more on depth of revision and craft than on generation of a large number of new pieces. Students will develop and refine a substantial portfolio by the end of the course.

154	SAT/ACT Preparation & Reading for College: College Preparatory I
Grades:		11	Term Block 3	Credits:	½

This is a serious review course geared to increasing students’ vocabulary, reading, editing and writing skills to make the SAT/ACT experience less threatening. Grammar and editing review, writing analysis, and critical reading skills for specific types of passages will be covered.<O:P> Students will write personal statement essays that they may later develop into college application essays.

156

FINE & PERFORMING ARTS DEPARTMENT OFFERINGS

FINE ARTS COURSE LISTINGS

The Visual Arts program endeavors to nurture the creative spirit. All course offerings provide opportunities for students to immerse themselves in the intellectual and technical pursuit of one’s own personal aesthetic.

NUMBER	COURSE TITLE AND LEVEL	GRADES

	Fine Art Majors Program
801	Introduction to Studio Art: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
802	Art I: Honors	9 – 12
804	Art II: Honors	10 – 12
806	Art III: Honors	10 – 12
809	Advanced Portfolio: Honors	11 - 12

	General Fine Arts Elective Program
811	Graphic Design: College Preparatory I	10 – 12
816	Painting I: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
818	Painting II: College Preparatory I	10 – 12
820	Printmaking I: College Preparatory I	9 - 12
822	Printmaking II: College Preparatory I	11 - 12
825	Introduction to 3D Ceramics/Sculpture: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
827	Advanced 3D Ceramics/Sculpture: College Preparatory I	10 – 12
829	Public Art – STUDIO370: College Preparatory I	10 - 12

ART MAJOR PROGRAM

The Art Major Program is intended for the serious minded student who is committed to creating a profound body of work. This is a sequential program. A student may not take a course without having completed the previously required one.

The Art Major Program is rigorous. This program offers opportunities for all students, those considering art as a career, those pursuing art as an avocation, and those who wish to be discriminating consumers with knowledge of good design.

ART ELECTIVES

Art electives are generally term courses. They are designed with the novice artist in mind. However, they are open to advanced students as well. Advanced study is available within the elective courses indicated by an asterisk (*), limited to the availability of space after first-year students have been accommodated. Advanced students must meet the prerequisite of a “B+” or higher grade in the first-year course and have approval of the teacher.

FINE ARTS MAJOR PROGRAM PROGRAMS

801	Introduction to Studio Art: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9 - 12	Term Block	Credits:	½

This is an introductory studio based art course aimed at developing creativity, cultivating the imagination and enabling self-expression. Because drawing is an essential tool for the expression of most visual art forms, the student will explore observation skills (learning to see), basic techniques (learning to employ art media such as pencil, charcoal and ink etc.), and composition (learning to arrange two-dimensional objects on a drawing surface). Class projects will include figure drawing and still-life arrangements. The elements and principles of art will be the guiding force as the student acquires technical knowledge of various artistic disciplines, and an understanding of the place art affects our daily lives. Additionally, students will explore design fundamentals, imaginative experiments, painting, mixed-media and color theory.

802	Art I: Honors
Grades:		9 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “B+” in #801-Introduction to Studio Art: CP I.

This course offers the serious art students rigorous training in the basic skills of drawing and design. The student progresses through various rendering techniques based on line, texture, and value, working with still life, landscape, portraits, and figure drawing. A variety of media will be employed. Both natural and mechanical perspective (1, 2, and 3 point) is explored in both realistic and imaginative settings. The elements of design are analyzed and used in a variety of design development experiences. Color theory and painting techniques relative to transparent and opaque watercolor are studied and explored. The course may also offer experiences in printmaking and sculpture. Students will participate in group critiques, write research papers, and read art-associated articles. Students are expected to work extensively beyond and outside of class on homework assignments and should expect to set aside a minimum of three hours per week to successfully complete his/her projects. Students will be assessed through a final written exam and a portfolio review.

Art I is a preparatory class for #804-Art II.

804	Art II: Honors
Grades:		10 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “B+” in #802-Art I: Honors.

Art II allows for further development of the foundation experiences in Art I with emphasis on design development. Through imaginative problems in form, volume, space, pattern, and composition, this course focuses on color, painting, drawing, and sculpture. Figure drawing emphasizes anatomy and proportion.

Art II helps the serious student in developing a comprehensive portfolio. Students experience a large range of materials and should be capable of developing and expressing original ideas through risk taking. Students will participate in group critiques and self-assessment, write research papers, engage in reflective writing, and read art associated articles. Students are expected to work extensively beyond and outside of class on homework assignments and should expect a minimum of three hours per week to successfully complete his/her projects. Students will be assessed through a final written exam and a portfolio review.

Art II is a preparatory course for #806-Art III or #808-Advanced Portfolio.

806	Art III: Honors
Grades:		10 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “B+” in #804-Art II: Honors.

In Art III, students are encouraged to work in all areas of art. The preparation of a portfolio is required of each student. The student is given an opportunity for independent experimentation and study in class and at home. The student must demonstrate a range of expression, as well as a high level of competency and creative use of materials in drawing and design. Students develop projects in the following categories: technique, color, design, and illusion of space, content, and three-dimensional art. Students are expected to complete rigorous assignments outside of class, and should expect to devote a minimum of three to four hours per week to successfully complete his/her goals. Students will engage in group critiques, self-assessment, and reflective writing assignments. Students will be assessed through a final written exam and a portfolio review.

809	Advanced Portfolio: Honors
Grades:		11 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “A-” in #804-Art II: Honors.

This course may be taken by the third semester Art Major Student (having taken Art I and Art II). As a junior, the student will begin to develop his or her artistic voice, and as a senior, the student will create a complete body of work applicable for college admissions.

Students enrolled in this program are not required to submit their Advanced Placement portfolio to the College Board. It is, however, highly suggested that he or she does so.

The Advanced Portfolio course offers serious art students an opportunity to continue to prepare their portfolio for college applications. Most of the students’ time in class will be self-directed. Students are expected to spend a minimum of five to six hours per week honing a fully-realized body of work. Students will engage in reflective writing, self-assessment, and research related to their concentrations. Students will prepare their work for exhibition and take slides of their finished pieces.

In addition to the course work outlined in #806-Art III, the Advanced Portfolio student will focus on preparation of a portfolio based on the three main components of the course which are: 1) development of a sense of quality in student work; 2) concentration on a particular visual interest or problem; and 3) the student’s need for breadth of experience in the formal, technical, and expressive means of an artist.

Although work will be teacher-directed, much of the course content will be individualized and self-directed. Students are expected to spend a minimum of five to six hours per week honing a fully-realized body of work. Students will engage in reflective writing, self-assessment, and research related to their concentrations. Students will prepare their work for exhibition and take slides of their finished pieces.

GENERAL FINE ARTS ELECTIVE PROGRAMS

811	Graphic Design: College Preparatory I
Grades:		10 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Having taken Introduction to Studio Art is recommended

Students will work with the elements and principles of design in the study and creation of two-dimensional work. This basic art course will have an emphasis on visual communication through the use of concepts, type and images. The student designer will combine graphic materials - words, pictures and other graphic elements-to construct a visual communication or visual language. The course includes development of layout skills, style and an understanding of the design process. Through a series of exercises and projects, students will develop their perceptual skills as well as an awareness of the role that design plays in the environment in which they live such as graphic design, interior design, environmental design and advertising. Students will create original images including altering/enhancing photographs. The compositions will be evaluated using the vocabulary of visual art and appropriate references to visual literacy. Students will be expected to work independently on projects beyond class time and conduct research on the field of digital/computer art. Adobe In Design and Illustrator will be used in class.

816	Painting I: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9 - 12	Term Block	Credits:	½

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “B” in #801-Introduction to Studio Art: CP I

Painting is offered to students who wish to develop techniques in watercolors, tempera, acrylic, pastel and a variety of inks. Subjects will range from still-life, landscapes and direct observation to abstract and imaginary ideas. Students will participate in group critiques and reflective writing pieces. In addition, students should expect homework, which varies weekly, as well as weekly work summary/journals. Students will be assessed by a final review of work and/or a final project and exam.

818	Painting II: College Preparatory I
Grades:		10 – 12	Term Block	Credits:	½

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “B+” in #816-Painting: CP I.

This course will further develop the student’s ability in painting; refine skills and the technical manipulation of the various painting media listed in Painting. Students will participate in group critiques and self-assessment, write research papers, engage in reflective writing, and read associated articles. Students will be assessed through a written final exam and a portfolio review.

820	Printmaking I: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9 – 12	Term Block	Credits:	½

This course offers the student the opportunity to explore a variety of printmaking techniques. Printmaking deals with the reproduction of an original artwork through processes resulting in wood and linoleum cuts, silk-screen prints, monoprints and collographs. Work is directed toward printing as an independent creative form with strong emphasis on the expressive visual qualities particular to each technique. Students will participate in group critiques and self-assessment, write research papers, engage in reflective writing, and read associated articles. Students are expected to work beyond class time to complete assignments and should expect one to two hours of homework per week. Students will be assessed through a final written exam and a portfolio review.

822	Printmaking II: College Preparatory I
Grades:		11 – 12	Term Block	Credits:	½

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “B+” in #820 Printmaking I: CP I

Printmaking II offers students the opportunity to further develop skills acquired in #822-Printmaking I. Students will conduct research on a specific printmaking technique, find an artist using that technique, submit a proposal for a term project, then produce a project

based on that technique and demonstrate it to the class. Design and composition skills will be further developed. Students are expected to work independently and to work beyond class on completing their projects. Students will participate in group critiques and self-assessment. Students will be assessed on the quality of craftsmanship in their final project, presentation to class, a written paper about the artist and their portfolio of work.

825	Introduction to 3D Ceramics / Sculpture: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9 - 12	Term Block	Credits:	½

Introduction to 3D Ceramics/Sculpture is a basic design course in which students acquire experience with the creative process and technical knowledge of three-dimensional art. Students will expand their means of self-expression through a variety of media including clay, wood, wire, paper, cardboard, and recycled objects. They will participate in group critiques and reflective writing pieces. Students should expect some homework including written summaries, bringing in outside materials for use, and weekly sketches.

827	Advanced 3D Ceramics / Sculpture: College Preparatory I
Grades:		10 – 12	Term Block	Credits:	½

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “B+” in #825-Introduction to 3D Ceramics / Sculpture: College Preparatory I

Advanced 3D Ceramics/Sculpture offers students the opportunity further develop skills acquired in Introduction to 3D Ceramics/Sculpture. More emphasis will be placed on throwing various forms on the potter’s wheel, developing and identifying a personal style, and studying sculpture from history. Students will participate in group critiques and reflective writing pieces. Homework such as written summaries, bringing in outside materials for use, and weekly sketches can be expected.

829	Public Art – STUDIO370: College Preparatory I
Grades:		10 – 12	Term Block	Credits:	½

This course centers on the hands-on exploration of three dimensional media through the creation of Public Art, as seen in Sculpture, Earth Art, Environmental Art, Performance Art, New Media and Installation Art. Students will consider the physical and social context in which public art pieces exist, as well as meaning, history, function and style. The three dimensional principles and elements of design will be sued during the making of art to communicate individual concepts. A wide range of materials and disciplines will be employed, such as wire, wood, plaster, fabric, fibers, recycled materials and found objects. Course work will include creation and implementation of site specific works, research and interviews, extensive collaboration with Artists In-Residence, visits by outside professionals, field trips, model making, critiques and proposal presentations.

STUDIO370, Holliston High Schools Art Gallery space, will be the students’ laboratory during the experience. Projects created will be celebrated at an “Opening” prepared by the students at the conclusion of the course.

PERFORMING ARTS COURSE LISTINGS

The Fine and Performing Arts Department offers students the opportunity to express themselves through music and performance. The Department offers a wide range of courses in music and theater designed to meet the needs and interests of our student body. All students should know and understand the nature of the creative process, the characteristics of music and theatre, and their importance in shaping and reflecting historical and cultural heritage. We believe that learning in and about the arts is grounded in production and performance and the study of the arts helps in the development of imaginative, critical and reflective thinking.

NUMBER	COURSE TITLE AND LEVEL	GRADES

	Drama Program
880	Drama Workshop I: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
882	Drama Workshop II: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
884	“Drama of the Here & Now” Performance Workshop: CP I	9 – 12
886	Director’s Workshop: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
888	Improvisation: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
890	Stagecraft and Design: College Preparatory I	9 – 12

	Music Program
871	Afro-Cuban Drumming Lab: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
873	Middle Eastern Drumming Lab: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
874	Bach, Beatles, Beyonce & Broadway: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
875	Beginning Guitar: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
859	Beginning Guitar II: College Preparatory I	9 - 12
840/842	Chorus Class: College Preparatory I (for credit and grade)	9 – 12
876	Composition and Arranging: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
877	Piano Lab: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
878	Songwriting: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
879	Stage Performance Technique: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
872	Vocal Methods: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
869	Music in Movies and Television: College Preparatory I	9 – 12

	Performing Groups
	Concert Band
	Concert Chorus
	DSB Ensembles

	After School Ensembles
	Act Two
	Harmonix
	Jazz Band A
	Jazz Band B

DRAMA PROGRAMS

880	Drama Workshop I: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9 - 12	Term Block	Credits:	½

This course will serve as a "hands on" introduction to the basic conventions of both drama and theatre. Through interactive classroom exercises, the students will explore the concepts of theatre as an art form and its means of communication between artist and audience. Students will learn about scene structure, conflict, object reality, improvisation and character development, culminating in either scripted scene work or individual monologue presentations. At the end of the course, students will be able to develop through improvisation and script analysis, an episodic theme/subject and character exploration. Students will be able to identify, through the creation and performance of dramatic solutions to given problems, their artistic voice.

882	Drama Workshop II: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9 - 12	Term Block	Credits:	½

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “B-“ in #880-Drama Workshop I: CP I

The goal of this course is to develop and extend the dramatic performance skills taken up in Drama Workshop I. Students will apply those skills to detailed exploration of scripted as well as improvised scenes. Students will learn script analysis, character intentions, actions, tactics, expectations, transitions, and other topics. They will be able to create appropriate stakes for a character's needs and to portray these objectives and stakes on stage. This course will offer a more intense study of the physicality of characters creating further believability on stage. Students will also explore movement on the stage as it pertains to theatre as an expressive art form which focus lies on body kinesthetics.

884	“Drama of the Here & Now” Performance Workshop: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9 - 12	Term Block	Credits:	½

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “B-“ in #880-Drama Workshop I: CP I

The focus of this class is the creation, scripting, rehearsal and presentation of an original dramatic piece inspired by a current social issue such as respect, peer pressure/inspiration, etc. The finished piece will be presented in the auditorium during the school day to an invited student audience. Material may be generated through inter-school surveys, interviews, discussions of contemporary culture, and the participants' own experiences. At the end of the class students will be able to create scenes that elicit the desired audience responses, and to analyze and theatrically present multiple perspectives. They will increase proficiency in vocal projection and clarity, stage presence, collaborative skills, and critiquing skills.

886	Director’s Workshop: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9 - 12	Term Block	Credits:	½

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “B-“ in #880-Drama Workshop I: CP I

Students will approach the living art of theater from a new perspective as “sculptor” rather than “clay”. This new focal point will give students an opportunity to make their visions a reality on stage. From text analysis to the importance of delivering motivated movement on stage, students will learn to develop a director’s concept and overall vision for a theatrical piece thus learning the responsibilities of assuming the director’s chair. Students will address issues of character analysis, blocking, scenery, costume, lighting and sound choices. They will analyze play’s structural elements, playwrights’ intentions, and plays’ Aristotelian theatrical elements.

At the end of the course, students will be able to develop their own unique directorial voices, and concepts for theatrical pieces. Practical issues including: the audition process, casting, planning the production schedule, and the rehearsal process are a reoccurring focus. The relationship between director and actor, and director and designer are also thoroughly explored.

888	Improvisation: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9 - 12	Term Block	Credits:	½

Building on the skills acquired in Drama Workshop I and/or II, students in this course will focus on developing their improvisational skills on a more advanced level. Students will come to understand improvisation as an expressive art form of spontaneous creativity composed extemporaneously. Students will learn and apply improvisational terms such as spontaneity, accepting and rejecting, platforms, routines and plot advancement. Students will learn how to develop an intuitive episodic theme/subject and character exploration and be able to apply a character’s tactic and/or motivation in a prepared, improvised scene. Students will form solutions to the dramatic problem that exhibit greater depth, detail and complexity than those in Drama I and Drama II.

890	Stagecraft and Design: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9 - 12	Term Block	Credits:	½

This class is intended for the student who is interested in a behind the scenes look at the world of theatre. From lighting, set design and sound construction, students will tackle the technical world of theatre, taking a “hands-on” approach to learning the art of set design and stagecraft as the student becomes a part of the design and construction team of a major stage theatre production at the high school. As students build sets, they will learn about the use of tools and equipment used in the theatre and also the various materials used to create the visual life of a play beyond the actor. The class will also focus on the many different facets of design, including the following: lighting, costume, sound, make-up and, of course, set.

MUSIC PROGRAMS

871	Afro-Cuban Drumming Lab: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9 - 12	Term Block	Credits:	½

Students will experience the musical styles from the Caribbean by learning to play congas, bongos and other percussion instruments in a variety of related styles. By the end of the term, students will be able to perform stylistically appropriate rhythms from each of the regions covered on various percussion instruments in a group or individual setting. There is no prior musical experience necessary to be successful in this course.

873	Middle Eastern Drumming Lab: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9 - 12	Term Block	Credits:	½

Students will experience musical styles from the Middle East by learning to play the doumbek and other percussion instruments in a variety of related styles. By the end of the term, students will be able to perform stylistically appropriate rhythms from each of the regions covered on various percussion instruments in a group or individual setting. There is no prior musical experience necessary to be successful in this course.

874	Bach, Beatles, Beyonce & Broadway: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9 - 12	Term Block	Credits:	½

This course combines material covered in several previous classes, such as History of Jazz, Rock, Broadway and European Music. During the term, students will experience music from several periods and genres, including classical, jazz, rock, musical theater and other styles including some international styles popular today. The class will include both listening-based study and also performance based performance if a student has performance skills that can be utilized.

875	Beginning Guitar: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9 - 12	Term Block	Credits:	½

This course is designed to teach students with no prior guitar experience the basics of note reading and chord strumming. Knowledge of music reading is not required. Guitars will be provided for student use for the term.

859	Beginning Guitar II: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9 - 12	Term Block	Credits:	½

This course will continue the work begun in Beginning Guitar. Students will gain a more in-depth knowledge of chords, chord progressions, note reading, and scales. Guitars will be provided for student use for the term.

840 / 842		Concert Chorus: College Preparatory I
Grades:	9 - 12		Semester Block	Credits:	1

Concert Chorus is open to anyone who enjoys singing. Previous school chorus experience is not required. Students will learn songs chosen from many styles, including Jazz, Rock, Folk, Pop, Broadway, and Classical. Students will also learn basics of music reading. The Concert Chorus will perform at numerous concerts throughout the year.

Students who are unable to enroll in Concert Chorus due to scheduling conflicts may elect to become involved with chorus during the daily Directed Study Block period. Students who are only scheduled for a single semester of Concert Chorus are encouraged to participate during the DSB period for the portion of the year in which they are unable to fit the course into their schedule. Year long participation is greatly encouraged for the benefit of the student and the ensemble.

Students should use #840 to enroll in the Fall Semester and #842 to enroll in the Spring Semester

876	Composition and Arranging: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9 - 12	Term Block	Credits:	½

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “B-“ in Piano Lab or proof of knowledge of the materials of the Piano Lab program (usually reserved for advanced band, chorus or piano students).

This class was formerly called Music Theory. This course will continue the work begun in Piano Lab. Composition techniques of chord analysis, part writing, melody writing and ear training will be covered. Students will also investigate the stylistic elements of certain musical styles to understand how they are written and how they are unique from each other. Each student will complete a composition assignment for the final. If a student wants to go on in music at the collegiate level, this course is highly suggested.

877	Piano Lab: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9 - 12	Term Block	Credits:	½

This course is designed to teach students basic piano skills. The students will learn the basic skills of music reading, playing scales, finger technique, chord progressions and beginning piano music.

878	Songwriting: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9 - 12	Term Block	Credits:	½

This course is designed to teach the students the process of writing songs in a variety of different styles. The intent is to provide the student with the experience of working as a professional songwriter either for themselves or by using guidelines provided by a client. This

is a project driven class where students are assigned a specific set of guidelines for a particular composition and then must go through the process of creating a marketable product that meet all the parameters provided in the “contract”. Some of the projects will include writing songs in a multitude of current and periodic styles, creating a demo recording and writing jingles to promote events or products. At the conclusion of the class, the compositions will be produced and featured in a performance situation that will showcase the students’ work.

879	Stage Performance Techniques: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9 - 12	Term Block	Credits:	½

This course is designed for individual performers, both instrumental and vocal, to gain the necessary skills needed to be a live performer. The elements covered will include performance technique, microphone technique, sound system operation, staging requirements, stage presence, lighting effects and other performance elements. Students will be asked to perform a variety of styles of music in front of the class on a weekly basis, and be critiqued by their peers. The major performance situations will be videotaped for further self-evaluation. The goal of each performance is to build towards a polished performance experience. The ultimate goal of the class is to stage a final concert at the conclusion of the course.

872	Vocal Methods: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9 - 12	Term Block	Credits:	½

Vocal Methods is a more individualized instruction in vocal techniques, music reading, and literature review than the ensemble experience of Concert Chorus. The course will utilize both group and individualized vocal performance during the term. Through performance, listening, and projects, students will develop a higher degree of proficiency and knowledge of their voice, musicianship skills and vocal literature. Students who participate in this course during either of the first two terms of the year are eligible to audition for the annual Senior District Festival and (depending on individual scores) to audition for the All State-Festival.

869	Music in Movies and Television: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9 - 12	Term Block	Credits:	½

Film scoring has become a major career option for new musicians, either as composers, editors or performers. In this course, students will study musical styles and techniques used in movies and television. The class will listen and evaluate music from different movie and

television show genres, including science-fiction, drama, comedy, sitcoms, documentary, cartoons and others. Also, current and recent composers will be studies, such as John Williams, Danny Elfman, Marc Shaiman, HowardShore, Jerry Goldsmith and others. A final project of designing and editing a score for a movie/television scene will serve as a final assessment.

PERFORMANCE ENSEMBLES

The following are the performing ensembles offered by the HHS Music Department. These ensembles are not offered for grade or credit but are an integral part of the music experience available to students at Holliston High School. Students are encouraged to participate in any of the ensembles that their schedules allow.

Concert Band

Grades: 9-12 Full Year DSB – No credit or grade offered

Concert Band is open to any student with prior experience on a traditional concert band instrument (woodwind, brass or percussion). Students will perform music representing the standard band repertoire, including marches, suites, medleys and contemporary band music. The Concert Band will perform at numerous concerts throughout the year. Band will meet during DSB. Participation in all ensemble performances is part of the class expectations.

Concert Chorus:

Grades: 9-12 Full Year DSB – No credit or grade offered

Concert Chorus is open to anyone who enjoys singing. Previous school chorus experience is not required. Students will learn songs chosen from many styles, including Jazz, Rock, Folk, Pop, Broadway, and Classical. The concert chorus rehearses during DSB. Students may also take the Concert Chorus Class offered for credit and grade, where the student gains a deeper understanding of singing techniques. Students may participate in both DSB and the class at the same time or participate in DSB when not enrolled in a class. It is expected that the student participates in at least one option during the entire year. Participation in all ensemble performances is part of the DSB ensemble expectations.

PERFORMANCE ENSEMBLES

Jazz Band A:

This ensemble is the top level jazz band for the high school. Enrollment is by audition and recommendation by the director. The instrumentation will include standard jazz band scoring: alto sax, tenor sax, baritone sax, trumpet, trombone and rhythm section. Rehearsals will occur either before or after school each week. The ensemble will perform in various concerts during the year, both in regular school concerts or selected community events.

Jazz Band B:

This ensemble is the training group for Jazz Band A. Enrollment is open to any student who currently plays a jazz band instrument: saxophone, trumpet, trombone, guitar, bass or drums. Rehearsals will occur either before or after school each week. The ensemble will perform in various concerts during the year.

Act Two:

This is the premier vocal ensemble for the high school. Enrollment is by audition and recommendation by the director. The ensemble performs a variety of styles of choral music that is generally more advanced than the concert chorus repertoire and participates in a number concerts and festivals during the year. Rehearsals are after school or in the evening each week. Participation is expected to last for the school year.

Harmonix:

If enrollment numbers support a secondary after-school ensemble in addition to Act Two, the department will enroll students into a secondary after school ensemble known as Harmonix. Enrollment is open to any student at HHS. Some students need a year of training in Harmonix before they are ready for Act Two. The ensemble performs at most concerts for the department during the year. Rehearsals are after school or in the evening each week.

FOREIGN LANGUAGE DEPARTMENT OFFERINGS

The Foreign Language Department offers courses in French, Spanish, Latin and Mandarin Chinese. The main objective of these courses is to enable students to achieve the proficiency levels targeted in the 5 C's (Communication, Cultures, Connections, Comparisons and Communities) of the National Standards for Foreign Languages and The Massachusetts Foreign Languages Curriculum Frameworks, as well as to meet the criteria put forth in our own school-wide Academic Goals. In the case of modern languages (French, Spanish and Mandarin Chinese), the development of oral communicative proficiency on the part of all students will be stressed and will count as a minimum of 20% of each student’s term and final grades. An appreciation of the many different cultural contexts in which each language is spoken will be developed as an integral part of each level of Foreign Language instruction. Coursework in Modern Languages will be conducted in the target language in order to facilitate the development of communicative proficiency. In the case of Latin, a classical language, historical perspectives and connections to the English language will be stressed. It should be noted that all foreign language classes are subject to adequate enrollment. Some classes may not be offered in specific year due to lack of enrollment, so students should plan accordingly. Although Mandarin I is offered each year, Mandarin II may not run in a given year. Likewise, Latin II may not be offered in alternate years if enrollment is not sufficient for that year. Online coursework may not be counted toward the language requirement at Holliston High School. Core foreign language courses to be used to fulfill this two-credit requirement include French, Spanish, Principles of Spanish and Latin for Practical Applications (with prior approval only). Elective courses include Latin I and II and Mandarin Chinese I and II.

It should be noted (1) that Holliston High school has a two-credit graduation requirement in Foreign Language, (2) that most four-year colleges and universities have a Foreign Language entrance requirement, and (3) that there is a two-year Foreign Language entrance requirement for most Massachusetts state colleges and universities. Students and parents should consult college catalogues for specific entrance and graduation requirements of schools in which they are interested.

INTERNET POLICY FOR FOREIGN LANGUAGES

Since the advent of the Internet in public school systems, problems arising from student use of instant translation software for completion of writing projects have become more apparent in many a foreign language classroom. Should an instance of Internet translation use arise, it will be treated as plagiarism and dealt with in a manner consistent with the policy regarding plagiarism listed in the Student and Parent Handbook. Any and all instances of student use of material taken from internet sites in any language and included in student work without proper citation will also be considered plagiarism and will be dealt with accordingly. Likewise, student sharing of homework answers in any form, oral or written, will be regarded as plagiarism.

COURSE LISTINGS

NUMBER	COURSE TITLE AND LEVEL	GRADES

	French Programs
500	French I: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
502	French II: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
506	French Language 9: College Preparatory I – French Immersion	9
508	French III: College Preparatory I	10 – 12
510	French III: Honors	10 – 12
512	French Culture & Civilization: Honors	10
514	French IV: College Preparatory I	10 – 12
516	French IV: Honors	10 – 12
518	Advanced French Studies: Honors	11 – 12
520	French V: Honors	11 – 12
522	Advanced Placement French Language	12
524	French Culture and Conversation: Honors	11 - 12

	Spanish Programs
537	Principles of Spanish I: College Preparatory II	9 – 12
539	Principles of Spanish II: College Preparatory II	9 – 12
542	High School Spanish I: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
543	Spanish IA: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
545	High School Spanish II: College Preparatory I	10 – 12
546	Spanish II: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
550	Spanish III: College Preparatory I	10 – 12
552	Spanish III: Honors	10 – 12
554	Spanish IV: College Preparatory I	10 – 12
556	Spanish IV: Honors	10 – 12
557	Spanish V: College Preparatory I	11 – 12
558	Spanish V: Honors	11 – 12
560	Advanced Placement Spanish Language	11 – 12
562	Spanish Culture and Conversation: Honors	11 – 12

	Latin Elective and Core Programs
580	Latin I: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
582	Latin II: College Preparatory I (Elective-offered alternate years)	9 – 12
584	Latin for Practical Applications I: CP II	9 – 12
586	Latin for Practical Applications II: CP II	9 - 12

	Chinese Elective Program
590	Mandarin Chinese I: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
592	Mandarin Chinese II: College Preparatory I	10 – 12

FOREIGN LANGUAGE DEPARTMENT OFFERINGS

All students must meet the graduation requirement of two consecutive years of study in the same foreign language. Core foreign language courses to be used to fulfill this two-year requirement include French, Spanish, Principles of Spanish and Latin for Practical Applications. Elective courses include Latin I and II and Mandarin Chinese I and II.

Students of French and Spanish may continue to the Advanced Placement level of study. Students may take two consecutive semesters of foreign language study beginning in their junior year, in order to complete one sequence and begin another. Students of Latin maybe able to complete two consecutive years of study, as Latin II is offered on an alternate-year basis, depending upon enrollment. Chinese is open to all students at the College Preparatory I level. It should be noted that Mandarin classes are also offered depending upon sufficient enrollment. Students must count on completing their graduation requirement with two high school credits of French or Spanish, or, depending upon individual circumstances, with Principles of Spanish or Latin for Practical Applications. There is no option for independent study, including online coursework, as a means of obtaining the two-year requirement in the field of foreign languages.

Regarding appropriate course sequence selection, it should be noted that most students continuing the study of Spanish or French from middle school will be assigned to Year II coursework in the same language during their freshman year. Some students will be advised to repeat the first formal year of study at the high school level. Students pursuing coursework other than traditional French or Spanish, such as Principles of Spanish or Latin for Practical Applications, must have joint recommendations from their guidance counselor and the FL Department Leader to enroll in these courses.

It should also be noted that the content of a two-semester sequence in Principles of Spanish I and II is equivalent to the content of one semester of Spanish I study at College Preparatory I level. Therefore, if a College Preparatory I student does not meet the prerequisite to continue to the next year of study in the College Preparatory I level, he/she may not to complete graduation requirements by moving into the second level of Principles of Spanish, since this would involve repeating the same curriculum for credit in two different years.

Students who have completed Principles of Spanish I and II may elect to continue their formal study of foreign languages by taking Spanish II CP-1 or Mandarin Chinese.

Students enrolled per teacher recommendation in Latin for Practical Applications CP-II will be able to take two credits of instruction in this course, thereby fulfilling the high school graduation requirement.

ACADEMIC CHARACTERISTICS BY ABILITY LEVEL

Honors: These are Honors level courses available to students beginning in Year II of study. Honors courses in modern foreign languages are designed with very high standards and expectations. Reading and writing assignments, homework assignments and class activities are much more demanding and extensive than those for College Preparatory classes. Students enrolled in these courses will be expected to:

Write in French or Spanish at an advanced level –

Using a fully developed topic sentence in each paragraph and supporting each topic sentence with detailed evidence.

In full sentences with proper word order and appropriate verb tenses and agreement.

Using correct spelling, punctuation and more complex sentence structure.

Demonstrating ability to address the topic with rich and varied vocabulary appropriate to the course level.

Read in French or Spanish with understanding and insight –

Recognizing the purpose of the written text: narrative, expository, persuasive, etc.

Recognizing and analyzing advanced vocabulary and idiomatic expressions.

Demonstrating comprehension at literal, inferential and evaluative levels.

Applying the skills and strategies of active and critical reading.

Demonstrate –

An advanced degree of intellectual curiosity.

An appropriate academic attitude (respect and appreciation for learning).

Self-motivation and the ability to work both cooperatively and independently.

A degree of mastery of study and organizational skills.

College Preparatory I: These are College Preparatory courses with high standards and expectations. Reading, writing, and homework assignments and class activities are geared to this level of expectation. Students enrolled in these courses will be expected to:

Write in French or Spanish at a developmental appropriate level –

Using a topic sentence in each paragraph.

Supporting each topic sentence with sufficient evidence.

In full sentences with proper word order and appropriate verb tenses / agreement.

Using correct spelling, punctuation and sentence structure.

Demonstrating ability to address the topic with appropriate vocabulary and some circumlocution.

Read in French or Spanish with understanding of the main idea, gist and some detail –

Recognizing the purpose of the written text: narrative, expository, persuasive, etc.

Recognizing and developmentally appropriate vocabulary and idiomatic expression

Demonstrating comprehension of graded texts at literal and inferential levels.

Read in French or Spanish with understanding of the main idea, gist and some detail –

Applying the skills and strategies of active and critical reading.

Demonstrate –

An appropriate degree of intellectual curiosity.

An appropriate academic attitude (respect and appreciation for learning).

The ability to work both cooperatively and independently.

A degree of mastery of study and organizational skills.

College Preparatory II: These are College Preparatory II courses and are reserved for those students recommended through the Foreign Language Department Leader working in cooperation with the Guidance Department and the School Administration. Individual students may not choose to enroll in a College Preparatory II course without prior joint approval of the FL Department Chair and the individual guidance counselor. Students who are recommended for courses at this level:

Need extensive reinforcement in –

Oral language skill development.

Using everyday expressions in the target language.

Using basic written target language for communicative purposes.

Need extensive continued support in –

Constructing meaning from oral conversations and written texts.

Understanding basic idiomatic expressions in Spanish.

Demonstrate –

An appropriate degree of intellectual curiosity.

An appropriate academic attitude (respect and appreciation for learning).

The ability to work both cooperatively and independently, with additional support.

HIGH SCHOOL SEQUENCE OF COURSES IN MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGE

The following sequences are recommended for each level of instruction:

Honors Level: (beginning in Grade 10):

MODERN LANGUAGES

Grade 9 French/Spanish II or French Language 9 and Mandarin Chinese 1 or Latin I CP-1 (electives)

Grade 10 French/Spanish III Honors or French Culture and Civilization: Honors and Mandarin Chinese I or Latin I (electives)

Grade 11 French/Spanish IV: Honors or Advanced French Studies: Honors and Mandarin Chinese I or II or Latin I or II (electives)

Grade 12 Advanced Placement French/Spanish Language or French/Spanish V: Honors and Mandarin Chinese I or II or Latin I or II (electives).

College Preparatory I:

MODERN LANGUAGES

Grade 9 French/Spanish I or II College Preparatory I and Mandarin Chinese I or Latin I (electives).

Grade 10 French/Spanish II or III College Preparatory I and Mandarin Chinese I or Latin I (electives).

Grade 11 French/Spanish III or IV College Preparatory I and Mandarin Chinese I or II or Latin I or II (electives).

Grade 12 French/Spanish IV or V College Preparatory I and Mandarin Chinese I or II or Latin I or II (electives).

CLASSICAL LANGUAGES

College Preparatory Level I:

Grades 9-12 Latin I College Preparatory followed by Latin II College Preparatory (if available)

College Preparatory II:

MODERN LANGUAGES

Grades 9-12 Principals of Spanish I followed by Principals of Spanish II

CLASSICAL LANGUAGES

College Preparatory Level II:

Latin for Practical Applications I followed by Latin for Practical Applications II

(CP-II level of study in Latin is reserved for those students jointly recommended for this level by the Foreign Language Department Chair and the individual student’s guidance counselor.)

FRENCH PROGRAMS

500	French I: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

This course represents a beginning level for students new to the study of French and for students recommended to repeat French I after completing Grade 8 French. The course will be conducted in French. Frequent quizzes, tests, and/or rubric-based assessments will allow students to monitor their own progress. Course content will include the development of a broad base of French vocabulary and the application of basic grammatical structures in past and present verb tenses. Homework will include the writing of short sentences, skits and paragraphs in French, as well as the completion of grammar exercises and reading comprehension.

502	French II: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or have successfully completed French Grade 8 or #500-French I: CP I.

This course, conducted in French, will help students to further develop their skills in the area of communicative (oral and written) proficiency. The cultural component of this course will target the many aspects of French civilization. Through the reading of more complex texts and through extended classroom discussions, students will continue to develop their vocabulary and reading comprehension skills, and begin to apply these skills to their writing in the form of directed compositions and creative pieces. Reading selections will include short stories, abridged assessments (oral and written) will allow students to monitor their own progress. Homework will consist of memorization of vocabulary and verb forms, along with reading and writing activities. Oral presentations may be required. A well-organized notebook/binder will be maintained and reviewed at the teacher's discretion. A project (in French) on a French-speaking country will be required.

This course is a prerequisite for #508-French III: CP I and #510-French III: Honors.

506	French Language 9 – French Immersion
Grades:		9	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or have successfully completed French Immersion Grade 8

This course is conducted entirely in French and students are required to adhere to the French-only rule in the classroom. In this course, as part of the French Immersion high school sequence, students will refine skills in communication, cultures, and comparisons acquired in Grade 8 and will master more advanced concepts in written language structure in order to reach the goal of written communicative proficiency. There will be extensive training in the organization and writing of directed and free compositions. Accuracy in vocabulary usage, common idiomatic expressions, and in culturally correct speech will also be emphasized. The cultural component of this class will include a “virtual residence” experience in the city of Paris. Students will have practice locating apartments, furnishing them via virtual shopping, and keeping records of their virtual expenses, in order to familiarize themselves more closely with the French way of life. Textbook readings will focus on present-day life in France.

This course is a prerequisite for #512-French Culture & Civilization: Honors.

508	French III: College Preparatory I
Grades:		10 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or have successfully completed # 502-French II: CP I.

This course, conducted in French, will provide students with the skills needed to demonstrate communicative proficiency in the target language. Through the reading of more complex texts (Le mystere des faux billets, Le vol de la Joconde; various short stories) and through extended classroom discussions, students will continue to develop their vocabulary and reading comprehension skills, and begin to apply these skills to their writing in the form of directed compositions and creative pieces. A variety of activities will be used to promote cultural awareness of French speaking countries. The mastery of all simple and complex verb forms is required in year three. Oral presentations will be frequent. A long-term project may be required.

This course is a prerequisite for #514-French IV: CP I.

510	French III: Honors
Grades:		10 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or have successfully completed#502-French II: CP I.

This course, conducted in French, will provide students with the skills needed to demonstrate communicative proficiency in the target language. Through the reading of more complex texts (Lemystere des faux billets; Le vol de la Joconde; various short stories) and through extended classroom discussions, students will continue to develop their vocabulary and reading comprehension skills, and begin to apply these skills to their writing in the form of directed compositions and creative pieces. A variety of activities will be used to promote cultural awareness of French speaking countries. The mastery of all simple and complex verb forms is required in year three. Oral presentations will be frequent. A long-term project may be required.

This course is a prerequisite for #514-French IV: Honors.

512	French Culture & Civilization: Honors
Grades:		10	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or have successfully completed #506-French Language 9 CP French Immersion.

This course, conducted entirely in French, is a continuation of the Grade 9 French Immersion Program. Students are required to adhere to the French-only rule in the classroom. Students will master more advanced concepts in written language structure (interpersonal, interpretive and presentational modes of communication) in order to reach the goal of written communicative proficiency at the intermediate level. This course offers students an integrated approach to the study of the five major regions of France: Northwest, Southwest, Northeast, Southeast and Parisian Basin. Oral presentations following the study of each main region will be required, as well as a final term paper. Students will study the literature of each region through a study of several 17th through 19th century authors associated with each region, and will cover grammatical content in the context of the literature. A strong emphasis will be placed upon the further development of oral communicative skills through cooperative activities and oral presentations, and students will further develop their appreciation of French cultures and civilization. Frequent quizzes on grammar and cultural content will be included, as will various rubric-based writing assignments of differing lengths.

This course is a prerequisite for #518-Advanced French Studies: Honors.

514	French IV: College Preparatory I
Grades:		10 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or have successfully completed #508-French III: CP I.

This course, conducted in French, is a follow-up to French III CP and offers students the opportunity to move into the intermediate level of foreign language instruction. A strong emphasis will be placed upon the further development of oral communicative skills through cooperative activities and oral presentations, and students will further develop their appreciation of French cultures and civilization. Frequent quizzes on grammar and cultural content will be included, as will various rubric-based writing assignments of differing lengths, including term papers. Written compositions and oral presentations will be assigned frequently. This course will help to prepare students for the SAT II Achievement Test in French. Reading selections include Le Petit Prince by St. Exupery.

This course is a pre-requisite for #520-French V: Honors.

516	French IV: Honors
Grades:		10 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or have successfully completed #510-French III: Honors or #508-French III: CP I

This course, conducted in French, is a follow-up to French III Accelerated and offers students the opportunity to move into the intermediate level of foreign language instruction.

A strong emphasis will be placed upon the further development of oral communicative skills through cooperative activities and oral presentations, and students will further develop their understanding of French cultures and civilization. Frequent quizzes on grammar and cultural content will be included, as will various rubric-based writing assignments of differing lengths, including term papers. Written compositions and oral presentations will be assigned frequently. This course will help to prepare students for the SAT II Achievement Test in French and will serve as a foundation for grammatical skill development necessary for the Advanced Placement French Language Course. Reading selections include Le Petit Prince by St. Exupery.

This course is a pre-requisite for #520-French V: Honors or #522-Advanced Placement French Language.

518	Advanced French Studies: Honors
Grades:		11 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or have successfully completed # 512 – French Culture and Civilization- Honors.

This course, conducted entirely in French, presents an advanced level of French study in the context of the French Immersion Program. Students will be expected to adhere to the French-only rule in the classroom. The course comprises four major components: (a) an intensive review of the major grammatical and syntactical concepts studied in previous courses; (b) an introduction to Francophone literature through the reading of short stories of the 18th and 20th centuries, including the study of Existentialism as illustrated in Le Mur by Sartre and the novel L'Etranger by Camus; (c) introduction to film to support the study of literature through the viewing and critiquing of Casablanca; (d) advanced training in the writing of compositions in reaction to literature selections; and (e)advanced training in reading comprehension via selected readings from the text. Frequent quizzes on grammar and cultural content will be included, as will various rubric-based writing assignments of differing lengths, including term papers. Maintenance of advanced speaking and listening skills will continue to be emphasized. The continued development of a strong cultural awareness of the many French-speaking areas of the world will be highlighted. Compositions and reading selections will be assigned frequently. This course will help to prepare students for the SAT II Achievement Test in French and will serve as the foundation for grammatical skill development necessary for the Advanced Placement French Language Course.

520	French V: Honors (History and Conversation)
Grades:		11 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or have successfully completed #518- Advanced French Studies: Honors or #516- French IV: Honors or #514- French IV:CP-I

This advanced course, conducted entirely in French, offers students the opportunity to study the major events of the history of France through textbook readings and library research. Emphasis will be placed upon class discussions of the people and trends that have helped to shape contemporary France and francophone countries. The student will also acquire and use an extensive practical vocabulary. A review of advanced grammar will be integrated into daily coursework. Advanced speaking and listening skills will be refined through a variety of instructional activities, including role-playing, debating, oral presentations, and written presentations. Frequent quizzes on grammar and cultural content will be included, as will various rubric-based writing assignments of differing lengths, including term papers. A variety of movies related to French and francophone cultures will be viewed in class. Compositions, reading selections and oral presentations will be assigned frequently.

522	Advanced Placement French Language
Grades:		12	Three Term Block	Credits:	1½

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or have successfully completed #518-Advanced French Studies: Honors or #520-French V: Honors or #516-French IV: Honors

This rigorous course, conducted entirely in French, represents a college level of coursework, and is designed to prepare students to take the Advanced Placement French Language Examination in May. Through readings, class discussions, and focused grammatical study, students will prepare for the examination and the pursuit of the college level study of the French language. Frequent quizzes on grammar and cultural content will be included, as will various rubric-based writing assignments of differing lengths. Compositions, reading selections and detailed oral presentations will be assigned frequently. Reading, writing, listening, and speaking skill development will each count for 25% of each student's term and final grades.

Summer work will be provided to students enrolled for the following fall and will be graded as the first test grade of the fall semester upon returning to school in September.

524	French Conversation and Culture: Honors
Grades:		11-12	Term Block	Credits:	½

This course, conducted entirely in French, is designed for students who have completed AP French and would like to continue studying French through the May exam date, or for French IV Honors students who would like to take a term elective before moving to French V Honors or AP French. The course will focus on current events that reflect the various cultures of the French-speaking world. Reading and discussion of newspaper and magazine articles, internet research, and a final project will be required. This course is designed to engage students in conversation about cultural aspects of the French-speaking world, thereby broadening their understanding of different French-speaking countries while augmenting their vocabulary and facility with spoken French.

SPANISH PROGRAMS

537	Principles of Spanish I: College Preparatory II
Grades:		9 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a joint recommendation from the Foreign Language Department Leader and the student’s guidance counselor.

This is a beginning course in formal Spanish instruction designed for students who have experienced challenges with reading and language arts before beginning the formal study of a foreign language, or students who are recommended to repeat Spanish at this level following difficulty with Grade 8 Spanish instruction. This course will be conducted in Spanish as much as possible. This course will focus upon the development of good pronunciation and intonation, as well as the development of basic written structures. Special attention will be paid to the linguistic difficulties of the students. The development of cultural awareness in regard to the many Spanish speaking countries of the world will be highlighted. Homework will include the writing of short sentences, skits and paragraphs in Spanish, as well as the development of basic present-tense conjugation skills.

539	Principles of Spanish II: College Preparatory II
Grades:		10 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or successfully completed #540-Introductory Spanish I: CP II

This is a second year course for students who have successfully completed Principles of Spanish I CP II , but who need more review of fundamental structures (delete: than that offered in other second year courses) due to ongoing academic difficulty withreading and formal language structures. This course will be conducted in Spanish as much as possible. Students will concentrate on the oral and written skills necessary for basic communication in the target language. Students will also develop an awareness of the different cultural contexts in which Spanish is spoken. Frequent quizzes, tests, and/or rubric-based assessments will allow students to monitor their own progress. Homework will include the writing of short sentences, skits and compositions in Spanish. Basic oral presentations will also be required.

542	High School Spanish I: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

This course is open to students beginning the study of Spanish at the high school level.

This course represents a beginning level for students new to the study of Spanish, with no prior elementary or middle school Spanish experience. The course will be conducted in Spanish. Course content will include the introduction and mastery of the basic categories of everyday vocabulary and of the most frequently used verbs in present and preterit tenses. Frequent quizzes, tests, and/or rubric-based assessments will allow students to monitor their own progress. Homework will include the writing of short sentences, skits and paragraphs in Spanish.

543	Spanish IA: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

This course is open to students recommended to repeat Spanish I after having completed their elementary and/or middle school Spanish experiences.

This course represents a beginning level for students recommended to repeat Spanish I after their elementary and/or middle school Spanish experience. The course will be conducted in Spanish. Students will be expected to have prior knowledge of course content and vocabulary. Course content will include accelerated review and mastery of the basic categories of everyday vocabulary and of the most frequently used verbs in present and preterit tenses. Frequent quizzes, tests, and/or rubric-based assessments will allow students to monitor their own progress. Homework will include the writing of short sentences, skits and paragraphs in Spanish. This course moves at a much faster pace than the traditional High School Spanish I (# 542).

545	High School Spanish II: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or successfully completed High School Spanish I.

This course, conducted in Spanish, will help students to further develop their skills in the area of communicative proficiency (oral and written). Through the reading of more complex texts and through extended classroom discussions, students will continue to develop their vocabulary and reading comprehension skills, and begin to apply these skills to their writing in the form of directed compositions and creative pieces. Frequent quizzes and/or rubric-based assessments (oral and written) will allow students to monitor their own progress. The cultural component of this course will target the many aspects of Spanish speaking civilizations. Reading selections will include short stories, abridged literature selections, poetry and multi-paragraph texts. Students will keep journals and oral presentations will be frequent. A well-organized notebook/binder will be maintained and reviewed at the teacher's discretion.

546	Spanish II: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or successfully completed Middle School Spanish.

This course, conducted in Spanish, will help students to further develop their skills in the area of communicative proficiency (oral and written). The course is a continuation of the elementary and middle school Spanish programs, and is intended only for those students who have participated in those programs. Through the reading of more complex texts and through extended classroom discussions, students will continue to develop their vocabulary and reading comprehension skills, and begin to apply these skills to their writing in the form of directed compositions and creative pieces. Frequent quizzes and/or rubric-based assessments (oral and written) will allow students to monitor their own progress. The cultural component of this course will target the many aspects of Spanish speaking civilizations. Reading selections will include short stories, abridged literature selections, poetry and multi-paragraph texts. Students will keep journals and oral presentations will be frequent. A well-organized notebook/binder will be maintained and reviewed at the teacher's discretion.

550	Spanish III: College Preparatory I
Grades:		10 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or successful completion of #546-Spanish II: CP I.

This course, conducted in Spanish, will provide students with the skills needed to demonstrate communicative proficiency in the target language. Through the reading of more complex texts and through extended classroom discussions, students will continue to develop their vocabulary and reading comprehension skills, and begin to apply these skills to their writing in the form of directed compositions and creative pieces. A variety of activities will be used to promote cultural awareness of Spanish speaking countries. A well-organized notebook/binder will be maintained and reviewed at the teacher's discretion.

552	Spanish III: Honors
Grades:		10 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or successful completion of #546-Spanish II: CP I.

554	Spanish IV: College Preparatory I
Grades:		10 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or successful completion of#550-Spanish III: CP I or #552-Spanish III: Honors.

This course, conducted in Spanish, is a follow-up to Spanish III CP and offers students the opportunity to further develop their skills in communication (oral and written), cultures, and comparisons in order to move into the intermediate level of foreign language instruction. A strong emphasis will be placed upon the further development of oral communicative skills through cooperative activities and oral presentations, and students will further develop their appreciation of Spanish speaking cultures and civilization. Frequent quizzes on grammar and cultural content will be included, as will various rubric-based writing assignments of differing lengths, including term papers. A well-organized notebook/binder will be maintained and reviewed at the teacher's discretion.

556	Spanish IV: Honors
Grades:		10 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or successful completion of #552-Spanish III: Honors.

This course, conducted in Spanish, is a follow-up to Spanish III-1 and offers students the opportunity to further develop their skills in communication (oral and written), cultures, and comparisons in order to move into the intermediate level of foreign language instruction. A strong emphasis will be placed upon the further development of oral communicative skills through cooperative activities and oral presentations, and students will further develop their appreciation of Spanish speaking cultures and civilization. Frequent quizzes on grammar and cultural content will be included, as will various rubric-based writing assignments of differing lengths, including term papers. A well-organized notebook/binder will be maintained and reviewed at the teacher's discretion. This course will help to prepare students for the SAT II Achievement Test in Spanish and the Advanced Placement Spanish Language class.

557	Spanish V College Preparatory I:
Grades:		11 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or successful completion of #554-Spanish IV CP or #556-Spanish IV: Honors.

This course, conducted entirely in Spanish, is designed to develop communicative proficiency through the viewing and discussion of authentic films and novels in Spanish. Thirty percent (30%) of term and final grades will be based upon class participation and oral proficiency. All students will be expected to participate in daily discussions. This course is an excellent choice for those students who truly enjoy Spanish and wish to continue their Spanish studies. All students will be expected to speak, read and write in Spanish at all times. Frequent quizzes on literature selections and content of films viewed will be included, as will various rubric-based writing assignments of differing lengths, which may include term papers.

558	Spanish V Honors:
Grades:		11 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or successful completion of #554-Spanish IV CP or #556-Spanish IV: Honors

560	Advanced Placement Spanish Language
Grades:		11 - 12	Three Term Block	Credits:	1½

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or successful completion of #556-Spanish IV: Honors.

This rigorous course, conducted entirely in Spanish, represents a college level of coursework, and is designed to prepare students to take the Advanced Placement Spanish Language Examination in May. Through readings, class discussions, and focused grammatical study, students will prepare for the examination and the pursuit of the college level study of the Spanish language. Frequent quizzes on grammar and cultural content will be included, as will various rubric-based writing assignments of differing lengths. Compositions, reading selections and detailed oral presentations will be assigned frequently. Oral proficiency skill development will count for 20% of each student's term and final grades.

562	Spanish Conversation and Culture: Honors
Grades:		11 - 12	Term Block	Credits:	½

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or successful completion of #554 Spanish IV College Prep; #556 Spanish IV Honors or #557 Spanish V: College Prep I or #558 Spanish V: Honors or #560 AP Spanish Language.

This course, conducted entirely in Spanish, is designed for students who have completed AP Spanish and would like to continue studying Spanish through the May exam date, or for Spanish IV Honors students who would like to take a term elective before moving to

Spanish V Honors or AP Spanish . The course will focus on current events that reflect the various cultures of the Spanish -speaking world. Reading and discussion of newspaper and magazine articles, internet research, and a final project will be required. This course is designed to engage students in conversation about cultural aspects of the Spanish -speaking world, thereby broadening their understanding of different Spanish-speaking countries while augmenting their vocabulary and facility with spoken Spanish.

LATIN PROGRAMS

580	Latin I: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students will acquire a basic vocabulary in Latin, increase their English vocabulary through utilization and application of word patterns, and learn syntax and grammar through oral and written drills. There will be translations from Latin to English and from English to Latin, as well as presentations of the cultural highlights and heritage of Rome and its influence on the western world. This course will help students prepare for the vocabulary sections of the PSAT and SAT examinations. Word derivations, prefixes, suffixes, and the correct use of words in context are studied and reviewed. In addition, students will acquire a deeper understanding of how languages function and an increased knowledge of the English language. A minimum of forty-five minutes of homework nightly should be expected. Frequent quizzes on vocabulary and grammatical content will be included, as will various rubric-based assignments of differing lengths.

(This course will be offered during the 2011-12 academic year, depending upon enrollment.)

582	Latin II: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or earned a minimum grade of “C+” in #580-Latin I CP

Students will acquire a thorough vocabulary in Latin and will review the basic forms and syntax of Latin I. They will work on the translation of several major works of Latin authors. Students must have a clear understanding of Latin syntax and grammar in order to be successful with translation activities. This course will provide additional preparation for the PSAT/SAT exams. Frequent quizzes on vocabulary and grammatical content will be included, as will various rubric-based assignments of differing lengths.

584	Latin For Practical Applications I: College Preparatory II
Grades:		9 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation.

This course will consist of the study of Latin and some Greek roots to familiarize them with the origins of many English words and to expand students’ English vocabulary development. Students will become familiar with some aspects of Latin and Greek cultures, as well. This course will be delivered in English and will count as a foreign language course.

(Offered in 2011-12)

586	Latin For Practical Applications II: College Preparatory II
Grades:		9 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation.

This course will consist of the study of Latin and some Greek roots to further expose students to the origins of many English words and to expand students’ English vocabulary development. Students will become familiar with some aspects of Latin and Greek cultures, as well. This course will be delivered in English and will count as a foreign language course. At the second level of this course, students will learn basic verb conjugations and declensions in Latin. (Offered in alternate years)

MANDARIN CHINESE OFFERINGS

Holliston High School offers Mandarin Chinese as a foreign language elective beginning in Grade 9.

Mandarin Chinese is taught through proficiency-based methods and includes a larger cultural component than do our other modern foreign language classes. Foreign language learning strategies acquired through the prior study of French or Spanish will help students to learn Chinese. Students will learn to pronounce Mandarin characters using pin-yin, the Mandarin phonetic system, and will learn to read and write approximately 250 basic Chinese characters in the first year of study, and a total of 600 characters by the end of the second year of study. After one year of study, students will be able to write a basic letter in Chinese. After two years of study, students will be able to converse about everyday activities in the target language.

590	Mandarin Chinese I: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

This course is open to students in grades 9-12 as a foreign language elective.

This course will offer students an introduction to Mandarin Chinese. The course will consist of the development of basic Chinese vocabulary, both oral and written, and simple communication skills. An integrated (oral/aural/visual) method of instruction will facilitate the rapid development of basic communicative proficiency in the language. Students will learn to read and write approximately 250 simplified Chinese characters. This class will be conducted as much as possible in Chinese.

592	Mandarin Chinese II: College Preparatory I
Grades:		10 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or have successfully completed Mandarin I: CP I.

This course will offer students a continuation of Chinese language skill development targeted in Mandarin I. Students will use what they know about spoken and written Chinese to begin to speak in guided dialogues in Mandarin. Further development of ability to write in Chinese characters will also be targeted. Students will learn to use a total of 600 characters in oral and written tasks. This class will be conducted in Chinese as much as possible.

MATHEMATICS & BUSINESS DEPARTMENT OFFERINGS

MATHEMATICS PROGRAMS

The mathematics program is organized to provide the student with the concepts that will enable him/her to meet with success in mathematics and all related areas such as science, programming and business. Mathematics is more than a collection of concepts and skills to be mastered. The goal of each mathematical science course is to develop the student’s abilities to explore, conjecture, and reason logically, as well as the ability to use a variety of mathematical methods effectively to solve non-routine problems.

The course sequence and teacher recommendations help to provide the best possible placement for our students. The department recognizes that there are additional areas to consider when deciding on the proper placement of the individual student; unusual circumstances should be submitted to the Mathematics Department Leader for review.

MATHEMATICS COURSE LISTINGS

NUMBER	COURSE TITLE AND LEVEL	GRADES

401	Algebra A: College Preparatory II	9 – 12
403	Algebra B: College Preparatory II	9 – 12
402	Algebra A: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
404	Algebra B: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
406	Geometry: College Preparatory II	10 – 12
408	Geometry: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
410	Geometry: Honors	9 – 10
412	Algebra II: College Preparatory II	10 – 12
414	Algebra II: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
416	Algebra II: Honors	9 – 10
417	Advanced Algebra Topics: College Preparatory I	10 – 12
418	Advanced Algebra: College Preparatory I	10 – 12
420	Advanced Algebra: Honors	10 – 12
421	Functions, Statistics and Trigonometry: College Preparatory I	11 – 12
422	Trigonometry: College Preparatory I	11 – 12
424	Trigonometry: Honors	10 – 12
426	Pre-Calculus: College Preparatory I	11 – 12
428	Pre-Calculus: Honors	11 – 12
431	Introduction to Calculus: Honors	12
433	Math Modeling and Analysis: College Preparatory I	11 – 12
432	Probability & Statistics: College Preparatory I	11 – 12
434	Advanced Placement Statistics	11 – 12
436	Advanced Placement Calculus AB	11 – 12
440	Financial Literacy I: Money, Saving, Investing – College Preparatory I	11 – 12
441	Financial Literacy II: Money, Saving, Investing – College Preparatory I	12
444	SAT/ACT Preparatory Mathematics: College Preparatory I	11 – 12

ACADEMIC CHARACTERISTICS BY ABILITY LEVEL:

Honors: These are honors level programs with high standards and expectations. Math courses at this level are fast paced and designed for students who are able to learn new concepts with very limited repetition and guidance. Students who are recommended for these courses:

Ø demonstrate strong computational skills with minimal use of a calculator.

Ø demonstrate proficiency with all previous mathematical concepts.

Ø demonstrate mastery of concepts within established time frames.

Ø demonstrate intellectual curiosity.

Ø extrapolate new ideas and solve multi-step problems.

Ø complete all assignments on time and provide detailed work.

Ø complete long-term assignments independently.

College Preparatory I:

These are college preparatory courses designed for students who are able to learn new concepts and reach a mathematical understanding of problems presented in class with a minimum of repetition and guidance from their instructor. Students who are recommended for these courses:

Ø demonstrate average computational skills with minimal use of a calculator.

Ø demonstrate increasing proficiency with all previous mathematical concepts.

Ø demonstrate an appropriate academic attitude.

Ø solve multi-step problems with minimal guidance.

Ø complete all assignments on time and provide detailed work.

Ø complete long-term assignments with interim checkpoints.

College Preparatory II:

These math courses are designed for students who need more guidance when learning new concepts. Students will receive repetition of topics and skills through classroom practice and homework assignments. Students who are recommended for these courses:

Ø demonstrate a willingness to learn.

Ø need reinforcement with strengthening mathematical skills.

Ø need direct instruction in combination with in-class guided practice.

Ø need additional time to complete long-term assignments and assessments.

Ø need long term projects broken down into manageable components.

Mathematics Course Flowchart

Honors:

Semester 1

Semester 2

Grade 9: #410-Geometry Honors #416-Algebra II: Honors

Grade 10: #420-Advanced Algebra: Honors #424-Trigonometry: Honors

Grade 11: #428-Pre-Calculus: Honors #434-A.P.Statistics (optional)

Grade 12: #436-AP CalculusAB(or) #431Introduction to Calculus: Honors

Electives: #433-Math Modeling and Analysis: College Preparatory I, #432-Probability & Statistics: College Preparatory, #444 SAT/ACT Preparation: College Preparatory I, #440-Financial Literacy: College Preparatory I, #441-Financial Literacy II: College Preparatory I, #614-Accounting: College Preparatory I

College Preparatory I: (option I)

Semester 1

Semester 2

Grade 9: #408-Geometry: CP I #414-Algebra II: CP I

Grade 10: #418-Advanced Algebra: CP I

Grade 11: #422-Trigonometry: CP I #426-Pre-Calculus: CP I (optional)

Grade 12: #426-Pre-Calculus: CP I (optional) #434-A.P. Statistics

Electives: #432-Probability & Statistics: College Preparatory I, #433-Math Modeling and Analysis: College Preparatory I, #440-Financial Literacy I: College Preparatory I, #441-Financial Literacy II: College Preparatory I, #431-Introduction to Calculus: Honors, #444-SAT/ACT Preparation: College Preparatory I, #614-Accounting: College Preparatory I

College Preparatory I: (option II)

Semester 1

Semester 2

Grade 9: #402-Algebra A: CP I #404-Algebra B: CP I

Grade 10: #408-Geometry: CP I #414-Algebra II: CP I

Grade 11: #417-Advanced Algebra: CP I

Grade 12: #433-Math Modeling & Analysis: CP I #421-FST: CP I

Electives: #432-Probability & Statistics: College Preparatory I, #433-Math Modeling and Analysis: College Preparatory I, #440-Financial Literacy I: College Preparatory I, #441-Financial Literacy II: College Preparatory I, #444-SAT/ACT Preparation: College Preparatory I, #614-Accounting: College Preparatory I

College Preparatory II:

Semester 1

Semester 2

Grade 9: #401-Algebra Part A: CP II #403-Algebra Part B: CP II

Grade 10: #406-Geometry: CP II #412-Algebra II: CP II

Grades 11 & 12: #440-Financial Literacy I: CP #441-Financial Literacy II: CP

Electives: #444-SAT/ACT Preparation: College Preparatory I, #614-Accounting: College Preparatory I

CALCULATOR POLICY

The calculator is considered a modern tool of the mathematician and will be used, and, at times required in many mathematics classrooms. There may, however, be topics explored and assessed without the use of calculators in order to encourage analytical thinking. The teacher will notify the students when they may not use their calculators.

The Holliston High School Mathematics Department recommends the following calculators for student use: the TI-30X, either battery or solar operated models, and the Texas Instrument TI-83 plus. (The older models TI-82 and TI-83 may also be used but be aware that the TI-82 does not have the capabilities of the TI-83.) Students may use other scientific and graphic calculators in their mathematics courses. However, with the proliferation of brands, models, and functions, the department will present all lecture material based on the above-mentioned Texas Instruments’ calculators only.

MATHEMATICS COURSE LISTINGS

FIRST YEAR ALGEBRA PROGRAMS

These courses are designed for students to acquire the skills and knowledge of basic algebra as required by the Massachusetts Mathematics Curriculum Frameworks and to prepare students for the MCAS. Two years of study in algebra (along with a credit in geometry) is the minimum requirement for most colleges and universities and is required for entry into the Massachusetts State College and University system. Students must complete both Algebra A and Algebra B to acquire all the learning standards and skills of a first year algebra course. After successful completion of Algebra A and B, it is required that students select Geometry as their next mathematics course.

401	Algebra A: College Preparatory II
Grades:		9 - 10	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or successful completion of Transition Math/Pre-Algebra

This is part one of the first year of algebra but with less rigor than the #402-Algebra A: College Preparatory I course. Topics covered will be reinforced on a daily basis and emphasis will be placed on skill building. Some of the topics covered include: using variables, operations on real numbers, products and powers, rates, ratios, proportions, and linear functions. In this course, teachers will use assessments such as tests, quizzes, and projects. Scientific calculators are required, although some topics may be explored and assessed where use of the calculator is prohibited to encourage analytical thinking

403	Algebra B: College Preparatory II
Grades:		9 - 10	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or minimum grade of “C-“ in #401-Algebra A: College Preparatory II

This is a continuation of #401-Algebra A: College Preparatory II and is necessary to complete the study of a full year of algebraic topics. The course will be less rigorous than the #404-Algebra B: College Preparatory I course. Topics covered will be reinforced on a daily basis. Some of the topics covered include: slopes and lines, equations of lines given a slope and y-intercept, exponents and powers, quadratic equations, polynomials and operations on polynomials, linear systems, factoring, and functions. In this course, teachers will use multiple assessments such as tests, quizzes, and projects. Scientific calculators are required, although some topics may be explored and assessed where use of the calculator is prohibited to encourage analytical thinking

402	Algebra A: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or successful completion of Transition Math/Pre-Algebra

This is part one of the first year of algebra; some of the topics covered include: using variables, operations on real numbers, products and powers, factorials, permutations, rates, ratios, proportions, and solving linear equations. In this course, teachers will use assessments such as test, quizzes, and projects. Scientific calculators are required, although some topics may be explored and assessed where use of the calculator is prohibited to encourage analytical thinking

404	Algebra B: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or Minimum grade of “C-“ in #402-Algebra A: College Preparatory I

This is a continuation of #400-Algebra “A”: College Preparatory I and is necessary to complete the study of a full year of algebraic topics. This course will study: slopes and lines, equations of lines given a slope and y-intercept, exponents and powers, quadratic equations, polynomials and operations on polynomials, linear systems, factoring, and functions. In this course, teachers will use multiple assessments such as tests, quizzes, and projects. Scientific calculators are required, although some topics may be explored and assessed where use of the calculator is prohibited to encourage analytical thinking

GEOMETRY PROGRAMS

These courses are designed for students to acquire the skills and knowledge of geometry required by the Massachusetts Mathematics Curriculum Frameworks and to prepare students for the MCAS. One credit in the study of geometry is a basic minimum requirement for most colleges and universities and is required for entry into the Massachusetts State College and University system. All of these geometry courses meets or exceeds those requirements. After successful completion of geometry, it is recommended that most students select Algebra II as their next mathematics course.

406	Geometry: College Preparatory II
Grades:		10 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or successful completion of #403-Algebra B: College Preparatory II

This is an informal study of Euclidean geometry, a landmark in the development of mathematics and other academic disciplines. Euclidean geometry is a study of points, lines, planes, and other geometric figures. Students will study definitions, postulates, and theorems and use the resulting logical system as a model for deductive reasoning. In this course students will explore size, shape, position, and orientation of objects in everyday activities. They will become familiar with two and three-dimensional objects and learn the language of mathematics that is used in describing the location and orientation of the objects. Teachers will use multiple assessments such as tests, quizzes, projects and portfolios of the student’s work to measure the instructional practices on students’ progress. Scientific calculators are required, although some topics may be explored and assessed where use of the calculator is prohibited to encourage analytical thinking

408	Geometry: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “C- in Algebra 8 or #404-Algebra B: College Preparatory I

This is a more formal study of Euclidean geometry in which students will be expected to use formal reasoning to justify conclusions about geometry and its relationship to other areas of mathematics. Students will recognize the logical structure of the system of geometric axioms, become familiar in proving theorems with the axiomatic system, and use the axioms and theorems to verify conjectures generated through their own work and that of their peers. Students will use coordinate geometry in the solution of problems and extend transformational geometry to a variety of congruence and similarity transformations and their composition. Assessments will include tests, quizzes, projects, and technological based explorations. Scientific calculators are required, although some topics may be explored and assessed where use of the calculator is prohibited to encourage analytical thinking

410	Geometry: Honors
Grades:		9 - 10	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “B” in Grade 8 Honors Algebra or “A” in Algebra B: CP I

This is a much faster paced formal study of Euclidean geometry in which students will be expected to use formal reasoning to justify conclusions about geometry and its relationship to other areas of mathematics. Students will recognize the logical structure of the system of geometric postulates, become proficient in proving theorems, and use the postulates and theorems to verify conjectures generated through their own work and that of their peers. Students will apply coordinate geometry in the solution of problems and extend transformational geometry to a variety of congruence and similarity transformations and their composition. Assessments will include tests, quizzes, individual projects and technological based explorations. Scientific calculators are required, although some topics may be explored and assessed where use of the calculator is prohibited to encourage analytical thinking

ALGEBRA II and ADVANCED ALGEBRA PROGRAMS

All of these courses are designed for students to obtain the skills and knowledge of a second year of algebra as presented in the Massachusetts Mathematics Curriculum Frameworks and to prepare students for college level mathematics. This is the second course in the two years of study in algebra that is the minimum requirement for most colleges and universities and is required for entry into the Massachusetts State College and University system. After successful completion of Advanced Algebra, students may go on to take advanced mathematics courses.

412	Algebra II: College Preparatory II
Grades:		10 - 11	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or successful completion of #408-Geometry: College Preparatory I or a minimum grade of “C-“ in #406-Geometry: College Preparatory II

This course will cover the following topics: review and extensions of all topics from first year Algebra; solving linear equations and linear systems, quadratic equations and inequalities; exponents, radicals, and simple rational expressions and equations. The major emphasis of this course will be on using algebra in problem-solving situations. Graphing calculators are required, although some topics may be explored and assessed where use of the calculator is prohibited to encourage analytical thinking.

414	Algebra II: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “C-” in #410-Geometry: Honors or “C- in #408-Geometry: College Preparatory I and a minimum grade a “C- in#404- Algebra B College Preparatory I or a minimum grade of an “A” in #403 –Algebra B College Preparatory II

This course is primarily a study of functions, especially linear, quadratic and polynomial. Although the pace and depth of this course is less rigorous and intense than the Honors Level Algebra II course, it still is a very intense course that will require a strong understanding of all topics from first year algebra. The course will include an introduction to matrices and the complex number system. Other topics include: the solution of equations and inequalities, including those using absolute values; linear equations and inequalities; systems of equations; factoring; various methods of solving quadratic equations; and geometry topics, including special right triangles, areas of polygons and circles and surface area and volume of 3 – dimensional figures. Graphing calculators are required, although some topics may be explored and assessed where use of the calculator is prohibited to encourage analytical thinking.

416	Algebra II: Honors
Grades:		9 - 10	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “C” in #410-Geometry: Honors, ”A” in #408-Geometry: College Preparatory I.

This course is designed for highly motivated students who have displayed consistent achievement and work habits in prior mathematics courses. The course will be very rigorous and intense and will consist of all topics included in #412-Algebra II: College Preparatory, as well as problems involving polynomial equations and inequalities; systems of linear equations in many variables, power and exponential functions. Graphing calculators are required, although some topics may be explored and assessed where use of the calculator is prohibited to encourage analytical thinking.

417	Advanced Algebra Topics: College Preparatory I
Grades:		10 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “C- in #414-Algebra II: College Preparatory I or in #416-Algebra II: Honors

This course is a continuation of the study of functions begun in Algebra II and will introduce students to the fundamentals of Statistics. Students will work to enhance their understanding of linear and quadratic functions, and be introduced to power, exponential, and logarithmic functions. Topics in Statistics will include graphical and numerical representations of data, measures of center and dispersion, and basic rules of probability. This course is designed for students who have successfully completed Algebra II College Preparatory I or Honors but who have not fulfilled the prerequisite for Advanced Algebra College Preparatory I or Honors. It is not intended to prepare students for Trigonometry and/or Pre-calculus. A TI-83 graphing calculator is used extensively, therefore; it is required for this course.

418	Advanced Algebra: College Preparatory I
Grades:		10 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “C+” in #414-Algebra II: College Preparatory I or “C-” in #416-Algebra II: Honors

This course is a continuation of the study of functions begun in Algebra II and will include power functions, composite functions, radicals, exponential functions, logarithmic functions and further work with polynomials, including advanced factoring techniques. There will also be an introduction to arithmetic and geometric series, probability and the Binomial Theorem. Graphing calculators are required, although some topics may be explored and assessed where use of the calculator is prohibited to encourage analytical thinking.

420	Advanced Algebra: Honors
Grades:		10 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “C+” in #416-Algebra II: Honors or “A” in #414-Algebra II: College Preparatory I.

This course is designed for highly motivated students who have displayed consistent achievement and work habits in prior mathematics courses. The course will be very rigorous and intense and will consist of all topics included in #418 – Advanced Algebra: College Preparatory, as well as an in-depth study of quadratic relations (conics), arithmetic and geometric series, probability, combinations and an introduction to statistics Graphing calculators are required, although some topics may be explored and assessed where use of the calculator is prohibited to encourage analytical thinking.

ADVANCED MATHEMATICS PROGRAMS

These courses are designed to further advance a student’s study of mathematics in preparation for advanced study at the college level.

421	Function, Statistics and Trigonometry: College Preparatory I
Grades:		11 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “C-” in Advanced Algebra #418 or #420 or a minimum grade of “A” in #417-Advanced Algebra Topics

This course is an integrated study of functions, statistics and trigonometry. This course is designed for the student who wishes to gain a stronger foundation in mathematics. Students will use linear, exponential, quadratic, polynomial and trigonometric functions to model situations. Also, this course will explore an introduction to probability and statistics. A TI-83 graphing calculator is used extensively, therefore; it is required for this course.

422	Trigonometry: College Preparatory I
Grades:		11 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “B-” in #418-Advanced Algebra CPI or “C-“ in #420-Advanced Algebra: Honors and “C+” in either #408-Geometry: College Preparatory I or “B-“ in#410-Geometry: Honors. Note: Advanced Algebra Topics should not be used as a prerequisite for this course.

Trigonometry is an advanced mathematics class that integrates algebra and geometry skills, studied in previous courses, into the lessons. Students will learn to convert between radians, degrees and revolutions, compute arc length and sector areas, use the unit circle, know exact values of trigonometric ratios in degree or radian mode, evaluate and apply properties of the reciprocal trigonometric functions, understand and use inverse trigonometric functions, solve a variety of trigonometric application problems, solve problems using the law of cosines and law of sines, apply the addition and double angle formulas for cosine and sine, draw and interpret graphs of trigonometric functions, and verify trigonometric identities. Also, topics with complex number systems and polar coordinates may be studied. Graphing calculators are required, although some topics may be explored and assessed where use of the calculator is prohibited to encourage analytical thinking.

424	Trigonometry: Honors
Grades:		10 – 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “C+” in #420-Advanced Algebra: Honors or “A” in #418-Advanced Algebra: College Preparatory I.

***Note: Advanced Algebra Topics should not be used as a prerequisite for this course

This course is designed for highly motivated students who have displayed consistent achievement and work habits in prior mathematics courses. The course will be very rigorous and intense and will consist of all topics included in #422 – Trigonometry: College Preparatory I, as well as solving more challenging application problems plus graphing all six of the trigonometric functions. Graphing calculators are required, although some topics may be explored and assessed where use of the calculator is prohibited to encourage analytical thinking.

426	Pre-Calculus: College Preparatory I
Grades:		11 – 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “B-” in #422-Trigonometry: College Preparatory I and a “C-“ in #418-Advanced Algebra: Honors

***Note: Functions, Statistics and Trigonometry should not be used as a prerequisite for this course.

Pre-Calculus is an advanced mathematics course that blends the concepts and skills that must be mastered before enrollment in a college-level calculus course. This includes an in-depth study of relations and functions, including quadratic, exponential and logarithmic functions and the study of Discrete Mathematics topics of uniform, binomial, and normal probability distributions. An introduction to the Calculus topics of limits and derivatives as a rate of change may be explored if time permits. Graphing calculators are required, although some topics may be explored and assessed where use of the calculator is prohibited to encourage analytical thinking.

428	Pre-Calculus: Honors
Grades:		11 – 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “C+“ in #424-Trigonometry: Honors or an “A” in #422 Trigonometry College Preparatory I and an a “B-” #420 –Advanced Algebra Honors or an “A” in #422 Advanced Algebra College Preparatory I

Pre-Calculus is an advanced mathematics course that blends the concepts and skills that must be mastered before enrollment in a college-level calculus course. This course is designed for highly motivated students who have displayed consistent achievement and work habits in prior mathematics courses. The course will be very rigorous and intense and will consist of all topics included in #426 – Pre-calculus: College Preparatory. It includes a review of arithmetic and geometric sequences and conics. An introduction to the Calculus topics of limits and derivatives as a rate of change will be introduced. Graphing calculators are required, although some topics may be explored and assessed where use of the calculator is prohibited to encourage analytical thinking.

431	Introduction to Calculus: Honors
Grades:		12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “C+” in #428-Pre-Calculus: Honors or “A” in #426 – Pre-Calculus: College Preparatory I.

Introduction to Calculus is a non-Advanced Placement course. Since this is an advanced mathematics course, before enrolling, students must be completely familiar with the properties of functions, the algebra of functions, and the graphs of functions. Students must also understand the language of functions (domain and range, odd and even, periodic, symmetry, zeros, intercepts, and so on) and they must also know the values of the trigonometric functions of numbers such as 0, p/2, p/3, p/4, and p/6. Students will study limits, the derivative, and applications of derivatives. Students will be introduced to the concept of the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus as it relates to the anti-derivative, the integral and area under the curve. Graphing calculators are required, although some topics may be explored and assessed where use of the calculator is prohibited to encourage analytical thinking.

434	Advanced Placement Statistics
Grades:		11 – 12	Three Term Block	Credits:	1½

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “A-“ in #422-Trigonometry: College Preparatory I or “C+“ in #424-Trigonometry: Honors

This course is intended to prepare students for the Advanced Placement Examination in Statistics (this is a non-calculus approach to the subject). Some of the topics will include: normal distributions, data transformation, central limit theorem, statistical inference, confidence interval, testing a hypothesis about the mean, analysis of variance, and chi-square analysis. Graphing calculators are required, although some topics may be explored and assessed where use of the calculator is prohibited to encourage analytical thinking.

436	Advanced Placement Calculus AB
Grades:		11 – 12	Three Term Block	Credits:	1½

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “B-” in #428- Pre-Calculus: Honors or “A” in #426-Pre-Calculus: College Preparatory I

Before studying Advanced Placement Calculus, students must be completely familiar with the properties of functions, the algebra of functions, and the graphs of functions. Students must also understand the language of functions (domain and range, odd and even, periodic, symmetry, zeros, intercepts, and so on) and they must also know the values of the trigonometric functions of numbers such as 0, p/2, p/3, p/4, and p/6. The Advanced Placement Calculus course is designed to meet the criteria established by the College Entrance Examination Board; with the understanding that students will be fully prepared for the Advanced Placement Exam in Calculus AB. Emphasis will be placed on a study of functions, limits, differential calculus, integral calculus, and transcendental functions. Graphing calculators are required, although some topics may be explored and assessed where use of the calculator is prohibited to encourage analytical thinking.

MATHEMATIC ELECTIVE PROGRAM

433	Math Modeling and Analysis: College Preparatory I
Grades:		11 – 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “C-” in either Algebra II #414 or #416 and “C-“ in either Geometry #408 or #410

This course is designed to afford students the opportunity to experience and understand how mathematics work in their surroundings. Students will learn how to use mathematical models to analyze, clarify, and solve real world problems. The course will helps students develop logical, creative thinking skills and become more confident in their math ability. A project-based curriculum involves students in some projects such as designing mini-golf holes, towers, explores the mathematics and physics of the amusement park, as well as many others with the assistance of the Internet. A TI-83 graphing calculator is used extensively; therefore: it is required for this course.

432	Probability & Statistics: College Preparatory I
Grades:		11 – 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “C-” in any Advanced Algebra course; A minimum grade of “B-” in any Advanced Algebra Topics #417 or a “C” in #418 Advanced Algebra: College Preparatory I or a “C-“ in #420 Advanced Algebra Honors

This course is intended to introduce students to a non-calculus approach to topics in probability and statistics. While selected topics in probability are examined, this development is limited to only those topics of descriptive and inferential statistics. Included in this development are the creation, implementation, and analysis of a student survey. Students will read and summarize topics in the text as they are developed with the instructor. Graphing calculators are required, although some topics may be explored and assessed where use of the calculator is prohibited to encourage analytical thinking. A TI-83 graphing calculator is used extensively; therefore: it is required for this course.

440	Financial Literacy I: College Preparatory I
Grades:		11 - 12	Term Block	Credits:	1/2

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or successful completion of Algebra A and B and Geometry

This course is designed to introduce students to the basics of money, savings and investing. Some of the topics addressed in this course will include: financial choices, planning and decision, taxes, money management, investing and consumer credit. Scientific calculators are required.

441	Financial Literacy II: College Preparatory I
Grades:		12	Term Block	Credits:	1/2

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or successful completion of #440- Financial Literacy I: College Preparatory I, Algebra A and B and Geometry

This course is a continuation of #440-Financial Literacy I. Students will continue to study topics in personal finance. Scientific calculators are required.

444	SAT/ACT Preparatory Mathematics: College Preparatory I
Grades:		11 - 12	Term Block	Credits:	½

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or successful completion of Algebra A and B, Geometry and Algebra II. ***This course is scheduled during term 1 only.

This course is designed to aid students in preparation for the fall SAT I and ACT examinations. Students will prepare for these examinations as they review algebraic and geometric concepts. Students will practice taking actual SAT tests. Graphing calculators are required.

BUSINESS COURSE OFFERINGS

All Business courses at Holliston High School are designed to meet the high standards of the National Business Educator’s Association and Massachusetts state frameworks for technology integration. The Partnership for 21^st Century Skills and employers across the United States articulate the skill sets that new entrants, recently hired graduates from high schools and colleges need to succeed in the workplace. Among the most important skills cited:

• Professionalism/Work Ethic

• Oral and Written Communications

• Teamwork/Collaboration

• Critical Thinking/Problem Solving.

Business Program course offerings promote all these skills and more with project based learning, real-world applications, and a hands-on approach designed to prepare students for the challenges that lie ahead.

NUMBER	COURSE TITLE AND LEVEL	GRADES
600	Computer Applications: College Preparatory I	9 – 10
606	Web Design: College Preparatory I	10 – 12
610	Introduction to Business: College Preparatory I	10 – 12
611	Presentation Skills: College Preparatory I (Term Course)	10 - 12
614	Accounting: College Preparatory I	10 – 12
618	Business Law: College Preparatory I	10 – 12
621	Entrepreneurship: College Preparatory I (Prerequisite required)	11 – 12

600 Computer Applications: College Preparatory I

Grades: 9 - 10 Semester Block Credits:1

The goal for this course is for students to be introduced to and become familiar with a networked computer lab and productivity software such as word processing, spreadsheet, Internet browsing, and presentation software. Students will also explore topics such as keyboarding; computer ethics and security.

606 Web Design: College Preparatory I

Grades: 10 - 12 Semester Block Credits:1

Students will enhance their understanding of digital media and effective communication. This course focuses on creation of informative web content and writing basic HTML code. Fundamental page and site design techniques, use of interactivity, E-commerce, Web 2.0 communications, and effective business use of social networking will also be explored. Students are expected to apply learned curriculum toward web site projects designed to meet clearly defined goals or purposes while creating visual appeal and interesting content for the web site’s audience.

610 Introduction to Business: College Preparatory I

Grades: 10 - 12 Semester Block Credits: 1

A great overture to the corporate world - Students explore the many facets of business while preparing for future opportunities. This course combines strong content with interactive business technology to keep student interest and support active learning. Topics include: advertising, the stock market, economics, consumerism, management, sales and marketing, finance, credit, risk management, and more. Strong emphasis is placed on instilling social responsibility and business ethics into each learning activity.

611 Presentation Skills: College Preparatory I (Term)

Grades: 10 - 12 Term Block Credits:.5

A memorable and valuable course- public speaking and listening skills are interwoven with technology to teach students to communicate more effectively in the 21^st century. Oral communication skills are essential in today’s environment. This course develops students’ abilities to communicate by improving speaking and listening proficiency, interpersonal skills, and speaking effectively to large and small groups. Presentation technology will be emphasized via the use of a wide range of multimedia formats, including audio, video, presentation software, and web based presentation tools. Students will receive feedback and reinforcement of skills by delivering various types of presentations in a variety of situations.

614 Accounting: College Preparatory I

Grades: 10 - 12 Semester Block Credits:1

Accounting is literally the language of Business and the elective of choice even for students who might not pursue accounting or finance. Students get a big head start on financial accounting, which is a requirement for all business majors. Students will learn the accounting cycle through techniques such as the development of the double-entry accounting system covering a complete accounting cycle and investigation of the techniques involved in preparation and interpreting financial reports. Current automated accounting software will be integrated with each concept. Students should be able to understand logical process and work independently on short and long-term projects.

This course satisfies a Mathematics elective requirement.

618 Business Law: College Preparatory I

Grades: 10 - 12 Semester Block Credits: 1

Students develop an awareness of the need for laws and the legal implications involved in acts of those engaged in business and consumer transactions. The importance of law and ethics in a free society is emphasized with a focus on legal disputes in our contemporary private enterprise system. Contract law is a central topic to this course. The Constitution of the United States is also examined in relation to business, criminal, personal and property rights. Criminal and civil law as well as and the law of torts are also explored.

621 Entrepreneurship: College Preparatory I

Grades: 11 - 12 Semester Block Credits: 1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of 77% (C+) in 610 Introduction to Business

Generate wealth, start your own business and be your own boss. This class combines a variety of skills needed to establish and operate a successful business for profit or non-profit. Emphasis is placed on opportunity recognition and the functions of marketing, product planning, financing, risk management and promotion. Entrepreneurship will guide students through the process of creating and implementing a successful business plan. Students will develop an enterprise and use the skills needed to effectively create, develop, organize, and manage their own business ventures

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT OFFERINGS

SCIENCE COURSE OFFERINGS

All science courses are designed to meet the National Science Education Standards and the Massachusetts Frameworks for Science and Technology Education. The science curriculum is laboratory-oriented and employs an inquiry approach to learning. The goals of the department are to help students gain an understanding of basic principles in science and to offer insight into the means by which scientific knowledge is acquired. There is a four-credit science requirement for graduation (to include 1 credit during the junior or senior year). The Science Department strongly recommends that students take at least one credit in each of the following subject strands: physics, chemistry and biology. There are alternate pathways that students may choose, but in order to meet the requirements for admission to higher education, students should take at least one course in the standard disciplines. Please refer to the course selection matrix for sciences which follows the course listings.

SCIENCE COURSE LISTINGS

NUMBER	COURSE TITLE AND LEVEL	GRADES

	Applied and Physical Science Programs
305	Science, Engineering & Technology (S.E.T.): College Preparatory I	9
306	Applied Science: College Preparatory II	10 – 12

	Life Science Programs
310	Fundamentals of Biology - Part 1: College Preparatory II	9
311	Fundamentals of Biology - Part 2: College Preparatory II	9
312	Biology: College Preparatory I	9
314	Biology: Honors	9
316	Advanced Placement Biological Science	11 – 12
318	Anatomy & Physiology: College Preparatory I	10 – 12
320	Anatomy & Physiology: Honors	10 – 12
322	Environmental Science: College Preparatory I	10 – 12
323	Environmental Science: Honors	10 – 12
325	Advanced Placement Environmental Science	11 - 12
327	Marine Biology: Honors	10 – 12
329	Marine Biology: College Preparatory I	10 – 12

	Physics Programs
358	Applied Physics: College Preparatory II	10
360	Physics : College Preparatory I	10
362	Physics : Honors	10
364	Advanced Placement Physics	11 - 12

	Chemistry Programs
340	Chemistry: College Preparatory II	10 – 12
342	Chemistry: College Preparatory I	10 – 12
344	Chemistry: Honors	10 – 12
348	Advanced Placement Chemistry	11 – 12

	Enrichment Term Programs
380	Astronomy: College Preparatory I	10 – 12
387	Chemistry Explorations and Applications: Honors	11 - 12
392	Chemistry Explorations and Applications: College Preparatory I	11 - 12
382	Exploring Forensic Science: College Preparatory I	10 – 12
383	Advanced Forensic Science : College Preparatory I	11 - 12
386	Meteorology: College Preparatory I	9 – 11
389	Principles of Genetics: Honors	10 - 12
393	Principles of Genetics: College Preparatory I	10 - 12
390	Biology Explorations and Applications: Honors	11 - 12
394	Biology Explorations and Applications: College Preparatory I	11 - 12
391	Physics Explorations and Applications: Honors	11 - 12
395	Physics Explorations and Applications: College Preparatory I	11 - 12

ACADEMIC CHARACTERISTICS BY ABILITY LEVEL

Advanced Placement & Honors	College Preparatory I	College Preparatory II

Must have a strong grasp of	Must have a good grasp of	Must have a basic grasp of
mathematical concepts in order	mathematical concepts in	mathematical skills in order to
to apply quantitative reasoning	order to apply quantitative	solve problems
to a variety of problems and	reasoning to a variety of
graphs	problems and graphs

Must be able to complete	Will be expected to complete	Will be expected to complete
extensive outside reading	outside reading assignments	nightly homework assignments

Will be expected to create	Will be expected to write	Will be expected to write lab
detailed and formal lab reports	formal lab reports	reports
with clear and concise
discussion that show thorough
understanding of material

Must be very self-motivated	Must be motivated to do work	Must have a desire to learn
with strong work ethic		the subject

Must be able to work well both	Will be expected to work	Will be expected to work
independently and in groups	independently and in groups	independently and in groups

Must be willing to seek a deeper	Will be expected to complete	Will be expected to try more
understanding of the subject	homework in a timely manner	complex problems with the
matter		aide of the teacher

Must have very strong problem	Must have good problem	Must be willing to learn
solving skills	solving Skills	problem solving skills

Must be a critical thinker	Must be willing to learn how to
	think critically

Must be committed to doing the
work required on this level

Must have a true curiosity for
subject matter

Will be expected to monitor
their own progress throughout
the course

COURSE SELECTION MATRIX FOR SCIENCES

Students considering a four-year college are strongly encouraged to take at least one credit in each of the following disciplines: physics, chemistry and biology.

Advanced Placement & Honors Levels:

Grade 9: #314-Biology Honors and #305-Science, Engineering & Technology: College Preparatory I

Grade 10: #344-Chemistry: Honors and #362-Physics Honors (Note: if student chooses to take both Physics and Chemistry their

sophomore year, they should take Physics first.)

Grade 11 and 12: #316-Advanced Placement Biological Science (or) #348-Advanced Placement Chemistry (or) #364-Advanced Placement Physics

In addition to enrolling in the essential science courses above, juniors and seniors may take elective courses.

College Preparatory I:

Grade 9: #312-Biology: College Preparatory I and #305-Science, Engineering & Technology: College Preparatory I

Grade 10: #342-Chemistry: College Preparatory I (and) #360-Physics: College Preparatory I (Note: if student chooses to take both Physics and Chemistry their sophomore year, they must take Physics first.

Grade 11 and 12: Depending upon Grade 10 selections, #342-Chemistry: College Preparatory I, as well as elective options in all science program areas

College Preparatory II:

Grade 9: #310-Fundamentals or Biology: Part 1 and #311-Fundamentals of Biology: Part 2 (in preparation for the MCAS test scheduled for the end of the Freshman year)

Grade 10: #306-Applied Science: College Preparatory II

Grade 11 & 12: #322-Environmental Science: College Preparatory I or #340-Chemistry: College Preparatory II or other elective course

Each pathway is designed to meet the needs of students with different learning goals. There are several variations on each pathway. It is possible to take more than one science course during the sophomore, junior and senior year. It is strongly recommended that students follow the course recommendations provided by their teachers.

APPLIED & PHYSICAL SCIENCE PROGRAMS

305	Science, Engineering & Technology (S.E.T.): College Preparatory I
Grades:		9	Semester Block	Credits:	½

This is a required term course for Grade 9 students in preparation for advanced science programs.

The goal of engineering is to apply scientific knowledge to solve practical problems and fulfill consumer wants through the development and use of technologies. Engineers therefore must constantly research developments to keep up with current knowledge of the field, perform experiments to increase understanding, and communicate developments.

This class will develop research, experimental, and communication skills that are necessary in more advanced courses. Skills developed will include:

- graph construction and interpretation with computer software

- problem-solving abilities

- experimental design and data analysis

- research skills

- presentation skills and powerpoint software

Development of these skills will take place while studying the following topics:

- electricity

- magnetism and electromagnetism

- electrical systems

- technology systems & product development

LIFE SCIENCE PROGRAMS

The basis of all life science courses is a comprehensive study of the topics of biology: classification, cell theory, evolution, genetics, ecology, human anatomy, and human physiology. We offer first year courses in Biology and advanced courses in Anatomy and Physiology, Environmental Science, and Advanced Placement Biological Science.

#310-Fundamentals of Biology: Part 1- College Preparatory II and #311-Fundamentals of Biology: Part 2: College Preparatory II should be taken consecutively during the Freshman year in preparation for MCAS testing in the Spring.

310	Fundamentals of Biology- Part 1: College Preparatory II
Grades:		9	Semester Block	Credits:	1

This program is designed to offer students a survey of current biological concepts presented in a manner that encourages inquiry, as well as active student participation. The topics are further explored through class discussion, hands on laboratory experiences, in-class and out-of-class student readings, student writings and projects. Students should expect to complete one or more long-term projects.

Topics explored in this course will be selected from the following areas: the nature of life, the chemistry of life, cells and their functions, and living organisms. The laboratory component is an important part of this course. During group lab work each student will be evaluated for individual responsibility, adherence to safety standards, verbal and written communications, demonstration of teamwork, and leadership in the laboratory.

311	Fundamentals of Biology- Part 2: College Preparatory II
Grades:		9	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or have successfully completed #310-Fundamentals of Biology: Part 1

This course is designed to complement the Fundamentals of Biology: Part 1 course with the completion of the study of introductory biology. Topics will be explored through class discussion, hands on laboratory experiences, in-class and out-of-class student readings and writings. In addition, students should expect to complete one or more long-term projects.

Topics explored in this course will include cell division, genetics, evolution, classification, ecology and the human body.

312	Biology: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation from their eighth grade science teacher

This life science curriculum is designed to reflect concepts relating to the following categories of study: Principles of Cell Biology, Characteristics of Organisms, Matter and Energy in Ecosystems, Principles of Heredity, and Evolution of Life. These concepts will be explored through lecture, inquiry based laboratory exercises, assigned readings, written assignments, use of multimedia and computer resources. In addition to academic performance, participation and class contribution are considered an important part of the learning experience.

314	Biology: Honors
Grades:		9	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation from their eighth grade science teacher

Accelerated Biology is a comprehensive course that surveys many topics in the field of biological investigation. This class moves through the important concepts in biology at an accelerated pace and at a depth designed to be extremely challenging. Laboratory assignments require significant critical thinking and analysis, as well as background research. The main topics emphasized in the class will be the skills and tools of the working biologist, cell structure and function, biochemistry, genetics, biotechnology, evolution, origin of life, and classifications using both the six-kingdom and the Three-Domain Systems. These topics are explored through the use of inquiry-based activities, laboratory exercises, assigned readings, lecture, student presentations and multimedia and computer resources. Accelerated Biology students will be required to complete extensive outside readings, formal lab reports, Internet research and considerable independent work.

This course is a prerequisite for #316-Advanced Placement Biological Science.

316	Advanced Placement Biological Science
Grades:		11 - 12	Three Term Block	Credits:	1½

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “B +” in #314-Biology: Honors and “B-“ in #344-Chemistry: Honors of “A-“ in #342-Chemistry: College Preparatory I.

This program is designed to reflect the standard curriculum of the Advanced Placement program. In addition, a continuation and expansion of the concepts presented in entry-level Biology programs also comprise an important component of this Advanced Placement program.

The program will offer students the opportunity to work independently and cooperatively in an active learning environment. Students will be involved in numerous and varied laboratory activities, special projects, and interactions outside the classroom setting. Since the quantity and quality of the subject matter will demand intense attention, heavy emphasis will be placed on outside readings and pre-class preparations. Vacation and summer assignments will be major components of the course.

In terms of subject matter, the major focus will be the following concepts: the chemistry of life, the cell, the gene, mechanism of evolution, evolutionary history of biological diversity, form and function of plants, form and function of animals, and ecology. Special areas of study will include: genetic disorders, microbiology, human genome, and biotechnology.

The program is designed for students who demonstrate self-direction and a strong work ethic.

318	Anatomy & Physiology: College Preparatory I
Grades:		10 – 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “B” in #312-Biology: College Preparatory I or ”B-” in #314-Biology: Honors.

This course is designed to complement the #312-College Preparatory Biology and #314-Accelerated Biology courses with the completion of the study of human biology: the structure and function of the human body. This course will provide students with an essential knowledge and understanding of the role that each organ system plays in the homeostasis of the human organism. Students will explore the functioning of each system in health and disease.

Topics covered within this course include: Skeletal/Muscular System, Digestive System, Respiratory System, Circulatory System, Excretory System, Integumentary System, Endocrine System, Nervous System, Reproductive System and Sensory Systems.

These body systems will be investigated through interactive classroom teaching, laboratory work, independent readings, Internet research, and group presentations. Students will be required to generate detailed laboratory reports, complete group research projects, and complete nightly homework assignments. This course offers all students a working knowledge of the human body.

320	Anatomy & Physiology: Honors
Grades:		10 – 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “A” in #312-Biology: College Preparatory I or ”B” in #314-Biology: Honors.

This course is designed to complement the #312-Biology: College Preparatory and #314-Biology: Honors courses with the completion of the study of the structure and function of the human body. This course will provide students with a working knowledge and understanding of the role that each organ system plays in the homeostasis of the human organism.

These body systems will be explored through interactive classroom teaching, laboratory work, independent readings, Internet research, and group presentations. This is a challenging course in which students will be required to generate detailed laboratory reports, complete group research projects, and complete nightly homework assignments. This course offers all students a comprehensive working knowledge of the human body.

322	Environmental Science: College Preparatory I
Grades:		10 – 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or successfully completed #310 and #311- Fundamentals of Biology: Part 1 and 2; or #312-Biology: College Preparatory I or #314-Biology Honors

This course is designed to provide students with the basic foundations and methodologies to understand the interactions between living organisms and their environment. Students will engage in active learning in the following topics: population demographics and food production, soil and land management, water, wastewater and eutrophication, biodiversity, atmospheric changes, global warming, waste management and public policy development.

Students will demonstrate knowledge through field study, classroom laboratories, Internet research, debates, media readings, audiovisuals and written communications. Additionally, students will identify and analyze environmental problems, both natural and man-made, and propose solutions to these problems. Upon completion of this Environmental Science course, students will be better equipped to understand and solve future personal and global environmental problems.

323	Environmental Science: Honors
Grades:		10 – 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “B-” in #314-Biology: Honors or “A-“ in #312-Biology: College Preparatory I.

This course is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in scientific approaches to environmental problems and solutions. The course will focus on current conditions and follow real-world events relating to the issue of sustainability and 193 nations coming to accord on what can be accomplished together. Students will engage in a deeper understanding of some of the world’s pressing problems such as global climate change, freshwater shortages, dwindling forests, biodiversity losses, food insecurity, over-exploited fish stocks, emergent ecological diseases, dependence on fossil fuels and the role of social, political and economic factors in environmental degradation.

Students will demonstrate knowledge using a variety of methodologies and written communications and will conduct independent research on a chosen topic. Upon completion of this course, students will know how valid information is gathered and analyzed and how to think critically about complex issues thus enabling them to engage in today’s dilemma of ecological degradation and help preserve earth’s fragile life support systems.

325	Advanced Placement Environmental Science
Grades:		11 - 12	Three Term Block	Credits:	1½

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “B +” in #314-Biology: Honors and “B-“ in #344-Chemistry: Honors of “A-“ in #342-Chemistry: College Preparatory I.

The AP Environmental Science course is designed to be the equivalent of a one-semester, introductory college course in environmental science. It is intended to enable students to undertake, as first-year college students, a more advanced study of topics in environmental science. The goal of the AP Environmental Science course is to provide students with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world, to identify and analyze environmental problems both natural and human-made, to evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and to examine alternative solutions for resolving and/or preventing them. Considerable emphasis is placed on field investigations as well as on laboratory study. Students will practice techniques for ecosystem monitoring both in the local environment and in a more pristine watershed. Students will take the AP Environmental Science Examination upon completion of the course. The program is designed for students who demonstrate self-direction and a strong work ethic.

327	Marine Biology: Honors
Grades:		10 – 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “B-” in #314-Biology: Honors or “A-“ in #312-Biology: College Preparatory I.

This biology elective is designed to compliment the #312-College Preparatory Biology or

#314 -Accelerated Biology course. As a second-year biology course, students are expected to enter the course with a general understanding of the themes of biology. Marine Biology focuses on a hands-on learning experience. This course is laboratory based; therefore, a large percentage of the final grade will be based on the ability to excel in the laboratory.

Some of the topics covered in this course include: oceanography, ecology, physiology, evolution, conservation, and anatomy of the plants and animals of the marine environment.

329	Marine Biology: College Preparatory I
Grades:		10 – 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1
Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation

This biology elective is designed to compliment the #312-College Preparatory Biology or

Some of the topics covered in this course include: oceanography, ecology, physiology, evolution, conservation, and anatomy of the plants and animals of the marine environment.

PHYSICS PROGRAMS

Physics is the science that examines the natural laws of the earth and the rest of the universe. Students use laboratory experiences as starting points for examining, testing, and understanding these laws. Topics studied in Physics include motion, force, work, energy, heat, optics, waves (sound and light), electrostatics, electricity, magnetism, and astronomy. College Preparatory Physics and Accelerated Physics are first year courses. Advanced Placement Physics is a second year physics course.

358	Applied Physics: College Preparatory II
Grades:		10	Semester Block	Credits:	1

This course is designed to provide students with the subject content necessary to develop an understanding of various concepts of physics. The fundamental topics of scientific method, dimensional and graphical analysis, motion, force, torque, matter and a brief introduction to chemistry will be explored through lecture/discussion and demonstrations, as well as related experiments and activities.

Computer technology will be utilized throughout the course to assist in collecting and analyzing laboratory data. Real life applications of each topic will be explored and analyzed in the laboratory, during problem solving, and as part of projects. Several of the projects incorporated in this curriculum include bridge building, and mobile construction.

Although the approach is very conceptual, the course will emphasize the development of problem-solving writing and communication skills. Students will maintain a daily journal of their activities and problems sets.

360	Physics: College Preparatory I
Grades:		10	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “C” in Algebra B College Preparatory I

This course is designed to provide students with the subject content necessary to develop an understanding of various concepts of physics. The fundamental topics of mechanics and energy will be explored through lecture/discussion, as well as related experiments and activities. Computer technology will be utilized throughout the course to assist in collecting and analyzing laboratory data. Real life applications of each topic will be explored and analyzed in the laboratory, during problem solving, and as part of projects. Several of the projects incorporated in this curriculum include bridge building, roller coaster and mobile construction.

Although the approach is very conceptual, a sound background in algebra and problem-solving skills is required. Problems solving will be used as a tool to better comprehend concepts. Writing and communication skills are also important for the student enrolled in this program, as each student will be required to maintain a daily journal and produce an end of semester portfolio.

362	Physics: Honors
Grades:		10	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “B+” in Algebra II: Honors of “A” in Algebra II: College Preparatory I

This advanced course is designed for students who intend to pursue higher education in science and/or engineering. A problem-solving approach emphasizes the application of physics’ principles to real life situations. Students are expected to apply algebra and trigonometry to solve complex problems while exploring a deeper understanding of the Laws of Physics.

Computer technology will be utilized throughout the course to assist in collecting and analyzing data. Laboratory work will be extensive and provide a framework for the course. Topics of mechanics, energy, light and electricity often start with an exploratory experiment and end with an open-ended experiment designed by students. Students will participate in several projects that include bridge building, roller coaster construction and Poetry in Motion.

Written work will be emphasized in all laboratory work, homework and several cross discipline projects. Each student will be required to maintain a daily journal of work and produce an end of semester portfolio.

364	Advanced Placement Physics
Grades:		12	Three Term Block	Credits:	1½

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “B” or better in #362-Physics: Honors or “A-” in #360-Physics: College Preparatory I; and a minimum grade of “B” in Trigonometry Honors and “A-” in Advanced Algebra Honors

The Advanced Placement Physics course will build upon and expand the foundations established in first year physics programs. Knowledge of algebra and basic trigonometry is required and basic ideas of calculus will be introduced in connection with certain physical concepts. Major topics include mechanics, optics, waves, electricity and magnetism, heat and thermodynamics, and relativity.

Students will be prepared to take the Physics College Advanced Placement Examination. Advanced Placement Physics is designed to be the equivalent of a first-year college course. For those students planning on an engineering or physics major, it would be appropriate to take this course simultaneously with Advanced Placement Calculus.

CHEMISTRY PROGRAMS

Chemistry topics are selected from kinetic theory, stoichiometry, atomic theory, periodicity, bonding, thermochemistry, kinetics, thermodynamics, equilibrium, acids, bases, electrochemistry, and organic chemistry. Emphasis is based on the continued development of problem solving skills. #340-Chemistry: College Preparatory II, #342-Chemistry: College

Preparatory I and #344-Chemistry: Honors are first year courses. Advanced Placement Chemistry is a second year course and the course of studies includes advanced studies in the first year topics as well as new topics. Students electing to take Advanced Placement Chemistry are expected to take the Advanced Placement examination offered in May.

340	Chemistry: College Preparatory II
Grades:		10 – 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “C-“ in Algebra A & B

This course offers a survey of basic chemistry principles. Major topics include: physical and chemical properties of the elements, atomic structure, chemical bonding, nomenclature, chemical equations, measurements, and chemical quantities (the mole). Where applicable, concepts will be related to the world in which students live.

The laboratory plays a critical role in learning chemistry, since it enables students' first-hand experience with substances and the observation of chemical changes. While working in

groups, each student will be evaluated for their individual responsibility, safety performance, verbal, and written communication, demonstration of teamwork, and leadership in the laboratory.

Students will acquire new learning through classroom practice and daily homework assignments. Chemistry topics will be presented through direct instruction, in combination with in-class guided practices. Students may be assigned one or more long-term projects.

This course meets the laboratory science and chemistry requirements for students who are interested in continuing their education at some four-year colleges, junior colleges or technical schools. This course is designed for students who are able to learn new concepts, with assisted instruction.

342	Chemistry: College Preparatory I
Grades:		10 – 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “B” in Algebra and a minimum grade of C+ in Physics: College Preparatory I

This course is primarily intended for the college bound student who may not plan to major in the field of science. Major topics include: classification of matter, physical and chemical properties of the elements, principles of bonding, nomenclature, the SI system of measurement, chemical quantities, chemical equations, basics of stoichiometry, gas laws, properties of water and solutions, atomic structure, and acids and bases.

The laboratory plays a critical role in learning chemistry; enabling students’ first-hand experience with substances and observation of chemical changes. While working in groups, each student will be evaluated for their individual responsibility, verbal and written communication, demonstration of teamwork, and leadership skills.

Success in this course requires each student have well-developed reading, writing, verbal, conceptual, mathematical, and independent study abilities. Students must demonstrate increasing competency throughout the course, since proficiency in a previous topic is required for success in future topics. Students may be assigned one or more long-term assignments.

A heavy emphasis is placed on solving word problems; therefore, this course requires a solid foundation in Algebra, including proficiency in the use of metric conversions, ratios, dimensional analysis, significant figures, and graphing.

344	Chemistry: Honors
Grades:		10 – 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “A-“ in Honors Algebra, “B” in Honors Physics, or “A” in Physics College Preparatory I

This course is designed for students who have a strong interest in science and plan to take additional courses in Chemistry. Subject matter includes behavior and structure of atoms and molecules, gases, substances in solution, the families of elements, and common chemicals.

Students will conduct experiments, collect and interpret data, and draw conclusions in formal laboratory reports. Students will solve increasingly complex chemistry problems.

Chemistry Honors is a fast-paced program designed for students who are able to learn new concepts and solve multi-step problems with very limited repetition or guidance. The atmosphere is directed toward independent student activity, which will require initiative and self-motivation and a considerable amount of time spent in related study outside the classroom.

This course is a prerequisite for #348-Advanced Placement Chemistry.

348	Advanced Placement Chemistry
Grades:		11 - 12	Three Term Block	Credits:	1½

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum grade of “B-” in #344-Chemistry: Honors and a minimum grade of “B” in Algebra: Honors, or “A” in Chemistry: College Preparatory I

Students will use a contemporary college chemistry text and laboratory manual that stresses principles and concepts and their relation to descriptive chemistry. This course is designed to prepare students for the Advanced Placement examination in Chemistry and follows the College Board Curriculum for Advanced Placement Chemistry.

The course will begin with a review of the basics in atomic theory and structure, bonding, equation writing and stoichiometry, quickly moving on to cover such topics as chemical equilibrium, kinetics, quantum mechanics, solutions, solids, liquids and gases. This course will include laboratory guided by the Advanced Placement examination expectations. In each of these major sections, students will deal with problem solving and descriptive facts like periodicity, nomenclature, and uses of elements and compounds.

TERM COURSE ENRICHMENT PROGRAMS

380	Astronomy: College Preparatory I
Grades:		10 - 12	Term Block	Credits:	½

Students will be introduced to the features and characteristics of the universe, including: stars, galaxies and our solar system. By examining the universe on a broad scale, students will be better able to apply facts they learn about stars to the concepts they learn about the solar system, the Earth and its interactions with the moon and sun.

There will be 1 or 2 mandatory night labs using the telescopes at the high school.

382	Exploring Forensic Science: College Preparatory I
Grades:		10 - 12	Term Block	Credits:	½

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or successful completion of #310 &#311-Fundamentals of Biology, Parts 1 & 2 or #312-Biology: College Preparatory I, or #314-Biology: Honors

In this course, students will learn how criminal investigators use science to provide information that could establish the guilt or innocence of people suspected of criminal activity. Students will be asked to play the role of forensic scientists. Applying the principles of chemical science, physical science, life science, earth science, archaeology, and anthropology, students will gather, analyze, and interpret evidence, and make interpretations of crime scenarios. Lab activities and web site interactions will be important parts of the course. In order to add realism to the course, students will investigate real-life studies (e.g., videocassette presentations and web site programs), visit forensic science facilities, and listen to guest speakers.

383	Advanced Forensic Science: College Preparatory I
Grades:		11 - 12	Term Block	Credits:	½

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum of “B” in #382-Exploring Forensic Science: College Preparatory I

This course has been designed to compliment the Exploring Forensic Science: College Preparatory I program. The course has been designed for students that are motivated and are able to work well independently and in small groups. Topics that will be covered include DNA fingerprinting, forensic toxicology, forensic anthropology, forensic informatics, and firearms and ballistic examination. Using various disciplines of science, students will gather, analyze, and interpret evidence, and make interpretations of crime scenarios. Laboratory activities, visits to forensic science facilities, and lectures provided by guest speakers will be important parts of the course. The program will culminate with a Forensic Casework Practicum.

386	Meteorology: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9 – 11	Term Block	Credits:	½

This elective course is an introduction to meteorology. Students will explore the factors that affect the earth’s changing weather patterns. Lab activities, web site interactions, and a daily log of the weather conditions at the high school will be integrated into this course. Students will explore earth’s atmosphere and the components of weather: solar energy, barometric pressure, humidity, precipitation, clouds, wind, fronts, and storms. Students will also examine various means of weather forecasting.

387	Chemistry Explorations and Applications: Honors
Grades:		11 - 12	Term Block	Credits:	½

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum of “B-“ in #344-Chemistry: Honors or “A-” in #342-ChemistryCollege Preparatory I, or a “C” in #348-Advanced Placement Chemistry

This course is designed to complement the #344-Chemistry: Honors or #342-Chemistry: College Preparatory I course. As a second-year chemistry course, students are expected to enter the course with a general understanding of chemistry concepts. Students will explore the chemistry behind important global issues that directly relate to their daily lives.

Topics covered include fuel/energy chemistry (nuclear, fuel cells, clean coal, solar), biochemistry, organic chemistry, and medicine/pharmaceuticals. The course will include an independent research and laboratory application component

392	Chemistry Explorations and Applications: College Preparatory I
Grades:		11 - 12	Term Block	Credits:	½

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation

As a second-year chemistry course, students are expected to enter the course with a general understanding of chemistry concepts. Students will explore the chemistry behind important global issues that directly relate to their daily lives.

389	Principles of Genetics: Honors
Grades:		10 - 12	Term Block	Credits:	½

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum of “A-” in #312-Biology College Preparatory I or “B-“ in #314- Biology: Honors

Principles of Genetics is designed as a laboratory science course that will build on concepts of genetics that were introduced in CP Biology and Honors Biology. The first half of the course will focus on the basic principles of DNA and classical Mendelian genetics, while the second half of the course will deal with the modern discoveries of molecular biology and their applications in today's world.

Some topics that will be covered include DNA structure and replication, the chromosomal basis of inheritance, protein synthesis, and genetic engineering. Special topics may include human development, cloning, stem cell research, DNA fingerprinting, genetic basis of disease, agricultural crop breeding, reproductive technologies, and the conservation of genetic diversity in nature.

393	Principles of Genetics: College Preparatory I
Grades:		10 - 12	Term Block	Credits:	½

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation

390	Biology Explorations and Applications: Honors
Grades:		11 - 12	Term Block	Credits:	½

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum of “A-“ in #344-Chemistry: Honors or successful completion of #316-Advanced Placement Biology

This course is designed to complement the #344-Biology: Honors or #316 Advanced Placement Biology courses. As a second-year biology course, students are expected to enter the course with a general understanding of biology concepts. Students through laboratory exploration, analyze the biology behind important global issues that directly relate to their daily lives. This course will be exploratory in nature and will involve extensive independent and laboratory work.

Topics covered in this course will include an overview/review of the following; the chemistry of life, the cell, genetics, evolution, biological diversity, plant and animal anatomy and physiology, and ecology. The major sources of the final grade in this course will be the student’s comprehensive journal and independent laboratory.

394	Biology Explorations and Applications: College Preparatory I
Grades:		11 - 12	Term Block	Credits:	½

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation

As a second-year biology course, students are expected to enter the course with a general understanding of biology concepts. Students through laboratory exploration, analyze the biology behind important global issues that directly relate to their daily lives. This course will be exploratory in nature and will involve extensive independent and laboratory work.

391	Physics Explorations and Applications: Honors
Grades:		11 - 12	Term Block	Credits:	½

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or a minimum of “B-“in #362 Physics: Honors or “C” in #364 Advanced Placement Physics; A minimum of “A-” in Advanced Algebra CPI or “B” in Trigonometry Honors

This course is designed to complement AP Physics and Honors courses. As a second year course, students are expected to have a strong understanding of fundamental physics concepts. Students will explore issues in modern physics, including practical relations to daily life and theoretical implications. Topics will include energy and renewable resources, waves and optics, and dynamic systems. Modern topics, such as chaos theory and string theory will be introduced.

395	Physics Explorations and Applications: College Preparatory I
Grades:		11 - 12	Term Block	Credits:	½

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation

As a second year course, students are expected to have a strong understanding of fundamental physics concepts. Students will explore issues in modern physics, including practical relations to daily life and theoretical implications. Topics will include energy and renewable resources, waves and optics, and dynamic systems. Modern topics, such as chaos theory and string theory will be introduced.

TECHNOLOGY OVERVIEW

By teaching the concept of “Engineering Design Process”, the Science and Technology Department prepares students for solving real problems found in the science, engineering fields, and everyday life. This department teaches students how to draw on, and fine-tune, their existing math, science, art, and English courses while introducing additional steps in solving problems: analysis, modeling, fabrication and presentation. There is a one-credit requirement in which students may either choose a course in Technology or Business.

After an introduction to basic tools, materials, and machines, all students will be provided with an opportunity to complete project-based assignments. Students will be encouraged to use the various design and fabrication labs as a resource to complete their projects. At the same time they will be provided with an overview of the nature and impact of technology on society and everyday life. All classes are designed to enhance critical thinking, problem solving skills, and co-operative learning, while challenging students to excel.

All students will be encouraged to investigate the other disciplines of technology, such as, communication, construction, manufacturing, and transportation, while being taught examples of problems and how they are solved in the real world. After successfully completing a discipline in the Technology Education curriculum, a student will be better prepared for the more complex, multifaceted problems encountered in science and engineering colleges, technical-based careers, and other real world environments.

NUMBER	COURSE TITLE AND LEVEL	GRADES

700/702	Communication Arts & Sciences Training I & II: Honors	11 – 12
710	Exploring Technology: College Preparatory I	9 – 10
712	Architectural Technology: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
721	Engineering Technology: College Preparatory I	10 – 12
771	Electronics & Robotics: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
781	A+ Certification Preparation: College Preparatory I	9 – 12
785	3-D Computer Animation: College Preparatory I	11 – 12
787	Construction Technology: College Preparatory I	9 – 12

700/702		Communication Arts & Sciences Training I & II: Honors
Grades:	11 - 12		Two Semester Blocks	Credits:	2

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation based upon on the following criteria:

1. Student must have demonstrated responsibility through his/her behavior in

school (such as attendance, class performance).

2. Student’s career interest/orientation would be enhanced through enrollment in this course.

3. Student has enough available time to participate in productions afternoons,

evenings and weekends, if necessary.

This visual communication course is designed to offer students an opportunity to express themselves by creating a variety of television productions. They will learn the required skills of television production by “hands-on” experiences within a professional television studio and in the field.

The course will include both the creative visual communication aspect as well as the language arts component of television production. It is designed to enhance and enforce both visual and language arts as applied to the communications field.

Areas emphasized will be visual effectiveness and script writing techniques for producing a variety of productions such as documentary programs.

Activities include: television camera operations; complete control room operations; transmission of data methods (cabling, optics, radio); lighting; editing; directing; production, and other related aspects of television production. Both in-studio and in-the-field work will be stressed.

Students should use #700 to enroll in the Fall Semester and #702 to enroll in the Spring Semester

703	Communication Arts & Sciences – Video Yearbook: Honors
Grades:		11 - 12	Term Course	Credits:	½

Because of the nature of this course, the program will be limited to forth term only, with an enrollment of teaching Assistants only. (Max of three).

This visual communication course is designed to offer students an opportunity to express themselves by creating a variety of television production techniques, with the intent of airing the finished work to the whole school and the community via Holliston Cable Access television. They will learn the required skills of television production by “hands-on” experiences within a professional television studio and in the field.

Areas emphasized will be visual effectiveness and script writing techniques and completion of this year-long enterprise

710	Exploring Technology: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9 - 10	Term Block	Credits:	½

This project-based term course focuses on the varied changes in technology and how human-made objects impact our lives. Students will study various technologies and develop solutions to problems presented in class. The engineering design process will serve as a guide for each project to create a “real world” approach to problem solving. Students will research solutions and build prototypes to test various solutions in applying the engineering design process.

Multiple assessments will be used to evaluate student progress, including written reports, tests, project fabrication, and demonstration. Throughout this course students will analyze the effects (both positive and negative) of technological revolutions of the past and present. Possible topics include the areas of sustainable cities, flow of energy and matter to do useful work, and the application of communications technologies.

712	Architectural Technology: College Preparatory I
Grades:		10 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

The material in this course is essentially related to architectural drawing and design. Basic drafting concepts including orthographic projection, isometric drawing, sectioning and auxiliary view drawing will be covered before the architectural drawing and design concepts are covered. The major emphasis is placed on developing fundamental architectural drawing skills and techniques. Units of study, including foundation planning, framing layout, sectioning, floor-plan design, elevation drawing, and pictorial representation will be emphasized.

Computer-aided drafting techniques using CAD will emphasize the development of sufficient skills to construct two-dimensional objects while inputting construction geometry into computer memory and retrieving the information for use in design and drafting.

Students will be evaluated on their design approach to each project, documentation of architectural design process, oral presentation and demonstration. Multiple assessments will be employed, including written, oral, authentication, and demonstration.

721	Engineering Technology: College Preparatory I
Grades:		10 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

The object of this course is to assist students in thinking more critically when solving problems. Students will be involved in discussions on creative thinking then be taught how to: solve problems using the engineering process method. They will participate in using effective methods to demonstrate an idea, a rationale and finally fabricate a prototype.

The course provides students with insight into the systems associated with the fields of power, energy and engineering. Students will also be introduced to the principles in the engineering science with regard to Hydraulic, Pneumatic and Thermal Systems. Whenever possible, the student will be given broad based problems to analyze and offer solutions in written and oral forms.

Students will demonstrate the ability to design and develop useful products, processes, or systems that benefit society; develop interpersonal skills, ethical behavior and a respect for others in order to function effectively in a team environment then demonstrate and perform engineering functions effectively.

Students will be evaluated using multiple assessments methods; written, oral, authentication, and demonstration. Students will utilize Internet ready PCs, hand, power, and engineering, measuring instruments and tools for systems analysis and study.

771	Electronics & Robotics: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students appropriate for this course have received a teacher recommendation or minimum grade of “C” in Algebra

This course provides an introduction to basic DC electronics and robotic fundamentals. Through a combination of theoretical study and practical application, students will learn to identify basic electronic components and build common electronic circuits. Topics covered include Ohm’s Law, series/parallel resistive circuits, current flow, switching, and circuit trouble-shooting. Teams of students will then construct and test simple robot kits, applying the concepts learned in the previous experiments.

Students will be evaluated on their analytical approach to problem solving, documentation of findings in a laboratory notebook, and successful demonstration of covered concepts through laboratory examinations, tests, and written summaries.

Resources include circuit “breadboards” and laboratory manuals used to construct circuits, necessary electronic components, access to text equipment, and robot kits.

781	A+ Certification Preparation: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9 – 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students enrolling in course will benefit from a familiarity with PCs and MS WIN applications

This course is designed to prepare students for the two A+ Certification Examinations (Core Hardware and Operating Systems Technology). The Core Hardware component provides students with the opportunity to gain experience with PC hardware, including CPUs, motherboards, hard drives, CD drives, memory, and associated peripheral devices. Students will become familiar with installing various hardware devices, loading drivers, and troubleshooting various technical problems.

The Operating Systems Technology component provides students with the opportunity to expand upon previous experience with a concentration on mastering the nuances of various operating systems. Students will load various operating systems and discover the technical details associated with each system, troubleshooting any technical problems. Students will be introduced to file sharing capabilities and networking concepts.

Students will be evaluated on their analytical approach to problem solving, documentation of findings in a laboratory notebook, and demonstration of understanding through laboratory examinations, tests, and written summaries.

Resources include test PCs and tools necessary to perform required tasks.

785	3-D Computer Animation: College Preparatory I
Grades:		11 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Students will work with 3-D computer imaging and animation software to create still three-dimensional scenes in preparation for the animation process. Students will learn how to translate three-dimensional objects into the two dimensions of the computer screen. Students learn to compose surfaces and environments for the objects and to manipulate lighting and camera perspectives. Students also work with actual 3-D materials to explore spatial design. The emphasis of this program is on problem solving in a three-dimensional realm.

787	Construction Technology: College Preparatory I
Grades:		9 - 12	Semester Block	Credits:	1

This course, designed around power standards, and state technology frameworks, will teach problem-solving skills through the use of tools and machines that are most commonly found in the highly technical field of construction. Instruction on the safe and proper use of tools and machines will be emphasized during “hands-on” activities. Activities will include stair and rafter layouts, strength of material testing and, several design problems.

SOCIAL STUDIES DEPARTMENT OFFERINGS

All social studies curriculum enables students to develop an informed worldview, expand their ability to think from multiple perspectives, and acquire the skills necessary for active citizenship in the 21^st century that will empower them to interact effectively in an increasingly interdependent world.

The goals of the department are to help students, read and think critically, speak and write effectively, and participate in purposeful decision-making and problem-solving within the context of the social sciences.

The core curriculum reflects the Massachusetts Curriculum Social Studies Framework, the National Standards for History and the National Council for Social Studies in Curriculum Standards for Social Studies. There is a four-credit social studies requirement for graduation. The curriculum requires grade 9 and 10 students to take United States History I and United States History II respectively. Modern World history is the core course for the 11^th grade. Electives are offered for juniors and seniors with the goal of exposing students to other disciplines in the social sciences.

There is a summer reading requirement for each of the core courses and each of the Advanced Placement courses. Summer reading lists and assessments will be announced in the Spring through classroom teachers, the Principal’s Newsletter, and may be found on the school’s website.

COURSE LISTINGS

NUMBER	COURSE TITLE AND LEVEL	GRADES

	Grade 9 Courses
207	United States History I: College Preparatory II	9
208	United States History I: College Preparatory I	9
209	United States History I: Honors	9

	Grade 10 Courses
210	United States History II: College Preparatory II	10
212	United States History II: College Preparatory I	10
214	United States History II: Honors	10
216	AP United States History	10

	Grade 11 Courses
220	Modern World History: College Preparatory II	11
222	Modern World History: College Preparatory I	11
224	Modern World History: Honors	11
226	AP European History	11

	Grade 11-12 Elective Programs
250	20^th Century Popular Culture: College Preparatory I	11 – 12
252	Psychology: College Preparatory I	11 – 12
254	Psychology: Honors	11 – 12
260	Sociology: College Preparatory I	11 – 12
262	Sociology: Honors	11 – 12
270	Government: College Preparatory I	11 – 12
271	Government: Honors	11 – 12
272	Advanced Placement Government	11 – 12

INDICATORS FOR LEVELS IN SOCIAL STUDIES COURSES

ADVANCED PLACEMENT	HONORS	COLLEGE PREPARATORY I	COLLEGE PREPARATORY II
Will have a high level	Will have a competent	Will have an	Will have a developing
of ability in the	level of ability in the	increasing level of	level of ability in the
following areas:	following areas:	ability in the following	following areas:
		areas:

Critical thinking	Critical thinking	Critical thinking	Critical thinking
Analysis	Analysis	Analysis	Analysis
Interpretation	Interpretation	Interpretation	Interpretation
Insight	Insight	Insight	Insight
Point of view	Point of view	Point of view	Point of view

Reading	Reading	Reading	Reading
Understanding	Understanding	Understanding	Understanding
Efficiency	Efficiency	Efficiency	Efficiency

Writing	Writing	Writing	Writing
Formulating	Formulating	Formulating	Formulating
And supporting	and supporting	and supporting	and supporting
a thesis	a thesis	a thesis	a thesis
Organizing and	Organizing and	Organizing and	Organizing and
presenting	presenting	presenting	presenting

EXPECTATIONS:

Class preparation
5-7 hours of outside class
Work per week
Expect to work independent
of assignments

SOCIAL STUDIES DEPARTMENT OFFERINGS

GRADE NINE SOCIAL STUDIES COURSES

UNITED STATES HISTORY I (required of all Grade 9 students)

207	United States History I: College Preparatory II
Grade:		9	Semester Block	Credits:	1

208	United States History I: College Preparatory I
Grade:		9	Semester Block	Credits:	1

209	United States History I: Honors
Grade:		9	Semester Block	Credits:	1

Program of Studies

2011 - 2012

PRINCIPAL’S MESSAGE

ACADEMIC LEVELS

AVAILABILITY OF COURSES

COURSE GUIDELINES / SELECTION

COURSE QUALIFICATIONS

COURSE AND LEVEL CHANGES

GRADE ADVANCEMENT REQUIREMENTS

From Grade

To Grade

Amount of Credit Earned

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

SCHOOL TO CAREER INTERNSHIP PROGRAM

TEC ONLINE COURSE PROGRAM

COURSE LISTINGS

FOREIGN LANGUAGE DEPARTMENT

French Program

Spanish Programs

Latin Elective and Core Programs

Applied and Physical Science Programs

Life Science Programs

Physics Programs

Chemistry Programs

Enrichment Term Programs

ENGLISH DEPARTMENT OFFERINGS

FINE & PERFORMING ARTS DEPARTMENT OFFERINGS

FINE ARTS COURSE LISTINGS

PERFORMING ARTS COURSE LISTINGS

FOREIGN LANGUAGE DEPARTMENT OFFERINGS

French Programs

Spanish Programs

Latin Elective and Core Programs

FRENCH PROGRAMS

SPANISH PROGRAMS

LATIN PROGRAMS

MANDARIN CHINESE OFFERINGS

MATHEMATICS & BUSINESS DEPARTMENT OFFERINGS

Mathematics Course Flowchart

CALCULATOR POLICY

MATHEMATICS COURSE LISTINGS

FIRST YEAR ALGEBRA PROGRAMS

GEOMETRY PROGRAMS

ALGEBRA II and ADVANCED ALGEBRA PROGRAMS

MATHEMATIC ELECTIVE PROGRAM

BUSINESS COURSE OFFERINGS

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT OFFERINGS

SCIENCE COURSE OFFERINGS

Applied and Physical Science Programs

Life Science Programs

Physics Programs

Chemistry Programs

Enrichment Term Programs

APPLIED & PHYSICAL SCIENCE PROGRAMS

LIFE SCIENCE PROGRAMS

PHYSICS PROGRAMS

CHEMISTRY PROGRAMS

TECHNOLOGY OVERVIEW

SOCIAL STUDIES DEPARTMENT OFFERINGS