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High School Curriculum |
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| Theology | Science | Math | English | Spanish | Latin | History | Fine Arts | Technology | Health/PE | Yearbook/Journalism | ||
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Theology I
(required)
In this course, the students will explore the historical and
transcendent aspects of the Church from its inception “in the
heart of the Father” (Catechism
of the Catholic Church)
to its eschatological – end of time existence.
This course covers revelations, natural and supernatural, beginning with Sacred Scriptures, supplemented with Dei Verbum, the document of Vatican II on revelations.
This course will study the nature of the Church, that is, how
she is in the “nature of a sacrament” (Lumen
Gentium),
along with all other aspects.
Once we have established Jesus Christ as the Bridegroom
of His Bride, the Church and all of the consequences arising
thereof, we can then move naturally to the Liturgy and the
Sacraments which Mother Church provides.
Such topics serve as a great segue into Mariology, a
study of the Mother and Paradigm of the Church.
Lastly, Pope John Paul II, whose motto “Totus Tuus” is
directed toward our Lady, led the Church across the “threshold
of Hope” for the new millennium; therefore, we will do a careful
study of his thought in much of the corpus of his writing.
This course will focus upon the moral life of all within the context of Christian Anthropology; that is, man’s vocation in Christ, the model of holiness, who took the form of a slave, emptied himself and learned obedience through suffering. Secondly, within the context of man’s natural endowments, his capacity for virtue, his ability to know and live by natural law and the Beatitudes. Finally, within the context of Charity as social justice and its application, the form of the virtues and the goal of all man’s strivings since “God is love”. (I JN 4:8)
Biology
(required)
This is a general biology course designed
to introduce students to the major concepts of biology in
preparation for advanced studies.
The first semester will deal with an introduction to the
physical and chemical organization of living organisms; cell
structure, function and metabolism; classical and molecular
genetics; gene regulation; genetic engineering and molecular
aspects of development.
The second semester will deal with an introduction to
anatomy, physiology, reproduction, development, behavior,
evolution and diversity of living organisms.
This will include viruses, prokaryotes, protists, fungi,
plants and animals.
Chemistry
This is a general chemistry course
designed to introduce students to the major concepts of
chemistry. The first
semester will cover the fundamental facts, laws, principles,
theories and concepts of chemistry necessary for further work in
science or science-related subjects while stressing atomic
structure, periodic properties of elements, chemical bonding and
molecular geometry of organic and inorganic molecules, states of
matter, stoichiometry and properties of solutions.
The second semester will stress the quantitative aspects
of kinetics, chemical equilibria, acid-base theories,
coordination complexes, thermodynamics and electrochemistry.
Physics/AP Physics
The curriculum has been written for three
levels: Applied
Physics, Academic Physics and Advanced Placement Physics.
All three courses will require much outside research and
study on the part of the student.
The time spent experimenting, researching, peer-teaching
and group problem-solving is rewarded in a more thorough
understanding of the subject.
AP Application required for AP.
Advanced Placement Biology Pre-requisites include one year of introductory biology, one year of introductory chemistry, a passing score on the AccuPlacer Test and consent of the instructor.
This is a general biology course opened to qualified juniors and
seniors. It is
designed for future science majors and students with a strong
science background who desire an in-depth approach to biological
topics. The first
semester will deal with an introduction to the physical and
chemical organization of living organisms; cell structure,
function and metabolism; classical and molecular genetics; gene
regulation; genetic engineering and molecular aspects of
development. The
second semester will deal with an introduction to anatomy,
physiology, reproduction, development, behavior, evolution and
diversity of living organisms.
This will include viruses, prokaryotes, protists, fungi,
plants and animals.
Algebra I (required) (1 credit) Although mathematics is essential in science and finance, all students must develop “the ability to understand the value of quantitative information, to conceptualize problems and to organize and interpret data in useful ways.” In Algebra I, students begin to solve “effective, authentic problems. In solving such problems, students learn to ask, “What mathematics do I need now?” The study of algebra through problems from the real world provides students with the opportunity to apply their knowledge of mathematics and their skills in solving problems.
Geometry (required) (1 credit) Geometry will provide students an opportunity to explore mathematics in a more visual and tactile manner. The relationships between geometric shapes and figures, Cartesian graphs and algebraic equations will be emphasized. Tools ranging from the classic ruler and compass to geometry software will be employed to help students experiment with and prove or disprove proposed hypotheses. Students will develop mathematical as well as general logic and reasoning skills.
Algebra II (required) (1 credit)
Pre-Requisite:
Algebra I & Geometry
Algebra II will provide students with an opportunity to develop
and communicate mathematic-ally through an integrated approach
among equations, graphs and data.
Students will develop an understanding of how math models
apply to real world situations.
Algebra II will also prepare students for pre-calculus
and, eventually, AP Calculus.
Pre-Requisite:
Algebra I, Algebra II & Geometry Pre-Calculus introduces students to the main ideas of Calculus: functions, rates of change and accumulation. Students need a solid foundation in arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry and Trigonometry for success in Pre-Calculus. Students will explore the concepts and skills necessary to construct quantitative models of change and to deduce their consequences. This course lays the foundation for advanced studies in the fields of theoretical and applied Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Economics and Engineering.
Calculus/Calculus AP (elective) (1 credit)
Pre-Requisite:
Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry & Pre-Calculus
Calculus and AP Calculus will prepare students for
post-secondary work in Physics, Chemistry, Engineering and
Economics. The
Derivative (a mathematical way to study rates of change) and the
Integral (a mathematical way to study the accumulation of
changing quantities) are the mathematical models of ideas
connected by the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus.
Functions are the rules used to find and describe how one
thing uniquely corresponds to another.
Students learn how things change over time and the
cause-and-effect relationships that exist among things in the
universe; i.e. physical, social and economic situations. AP Application required for AP.
English I (required) (1 credit)
Year A
of the freshman English cycle is an intensive study of the
elements particular to a variety of literature in different
genres, including epic, drama, lyric, and the novel.
Students develop analysis, synthesis, and judgment skills
in the expression of their ideas in writing and in class
discussions. Also students will be introduced to and refine
their writing skills through critical essays and research
projects on the literary works studied in class.
The course will explore in both general and specific ways
the idea of Wisdom.
In addition, students will work on the fundamentals of English
Grammar by working through the Glencoe grammar workbook.
Weekly assignments and tests allow a continuous study of
vocabulary. The
students will incorporate basic writing techniques, specifically
order and structure into their compositions.
Year B
of the freshman English cycle is an intensive study of the
elements particular to a variety of literature in different
genres, including epic, drama, lyric, and the novel.
Students develop analysis, synthesis, and judgment skills
in the expression of their ideas in writing and in class
discussions. Also students will be introduced to and refine
their writing skills through critical essays and research
projects on the literary works studied in class.
The course will explore in both general and specific ways
the idea of Justice.
In addition, students will work on the fundamentals of English
Grammar by working through the Glencoe grammar workbook.
Weekly assignments and tests allow a continuous study of
vocabulary. The
students will incorporate basic writing techniques, specifically
order and structure into their compositions.
English II (required) (1 credit)
Year A
of the Sophomore English cycle is an intensive study of the
elements particular to a variety of literature in different
genres, including epic, drama, lyric, and the novel.
Students develop analysis, synthesis, and judgment skills
in the expression of their ideas in writing and in class
discussions. Also students will be introduced to and refine
their writing skills through critical essays and research
projects on the literary works studied in class.
The course will explore in both general and specific ways
the idea of Wisdom.
In addition, students will work on advanced word usage and
mastery of basic English grammar by working through the Glencoe
grammar workbook.
Weekly assignments and tests allow the students to demonstrate
proficiency of word usage and grammar skills.
Lastly, students will employ the advanced techniques of
multi-paragraph essays incorporating advanced vocabulary.
Year B
of the Sophomore English cycle is an intensive study of the
elements particular to a variety of literature in different
genres, including epic, drama, lyric, and the novel.
Students develop analysis, synthesis, and judgment skills
in the expression of their ideas in writing and in class
discussions. Also students will be introduced to and refine
their writing skills through critical essays and research
projects on the literary works studied in class.
The course will explore in both general and specific ways
the idea of Justice.
English III (required) (1 credit)
Year A
of English III is an intensive study of American Literature that
will consider man as hero and the passage towards self
acknowledgment. As
well as incorporate the themes of temperance, fortitude, wisdom
and justice. The course will cover different literary genres,
including poetry, drama, fiction, and non-fiction. Students will
develop analysis, synthesis, and judgment skills in the
expression of their ideas in class discussions.
Also, students will continue to master and refine their writing
skills through frequent critical essays, timed writings, and
personal essays.
Lastly, students will master elements of composition and
vocabulary in preparation for the SAT college entrance exam.
Year B
of English III is an intensive study of World Literature that
will consider man as hero and the passage towards self
acknowledgment. As
well as incorporate the themes of temperance, fortitude, wisdom
and justice. The course will cover different literary genres,
including poetry, drama, fiction, and non-fiction. Students will
develop analysis, synthesis, and judgment skills in the
expression of their ideas in class discussions.
Also, students will continue to master and refine their writing
skills through frequent critical essays, timed writings, and
personal essays.
Lastly, students will master elements of composition and
vocabulary in preparation for the SAT college entrance exam.
English IV (required) (1 credit)
English IV (Year A) is an intensive study
of American Literature that will consider man as hero and the
passage towards self acknowledgment.
As well as incorporate the themes of temperance,
fortitude, wisdom and justice. The course will cover different
literary genres, including poetry, drama, fiction, and
non-fiction. Students will refine their skills of analysis,
synthesis, and judgment in the expression of their ideas in
class discussions and writing.
Lastly, students will master elements of composition and
vocabulary in preparation for the SAT college entrance exam.
English IV (Year B) is an intensive study of World Literature that will consider man as hero and the passage towards self acknowledgment. As well as incorporate the themes of temperance, fortitude, wisdom and justice. The course will cover different literary genres, including poetry, drama, fiction, and non-fiction. Students will refine their skills of analysis, synthesis, and judgment in the expression of their ideas in class discussions and writing. Lastly, students will master elements of composition and vocabulary in preparation for the SAT college entrance exam.
Spanish I (elective) (1 credit)
Text:
Dime Uno
(Textbook and Workbook)
This course introduces students with little or no background in
Spanish to the fundamentals of the language. Using the
Communicative Approach (and supplemented by other methods),
students will learn the vocabulary and grammar necessary for
basic conversational Spanish. With an emphasis on oral
communication through audio/visual reinforcement, students will
learn several skills (including speaking, reading, writing and
listening comprehension) through various interactive activities
and at the same time learn about the culture and customs of
Spain, Latin America and the Spanish-speaking population of the
United States.
Spanish II (elective) (1 credit)
Text:
Dime Dos
(Textbook and Workbook) Pre-Requisite: Spanish I
This Course continues the Communicative Approach and is
supplemented by other methods.
It will reinforce and redefine the language skills
acquired in Level I by continuing to develop the student’s
language skills (including conversational, written,
listening comprehension and reading). Through audio/visual
activities and interactive conversational activities, students
will progress to a higher level of competency in the language.
Students will also continue to learn about the culture,
geography and people of the Spanish-speaking world.
Spanish III (elective) (1 credit)
Text:
Dime Dos
(Textbook and Workbook) Pre-Requisite: Spanish II
This course will continue to build on the skills obtained from
Spanish I and II. Through continued conversational, written,
listening comprehension and reading practice, students will be
able to communicate more effortlessly. Students will also
continue to learn about the culture, geography and people of the
Spanish-speaking world.
Spanish IV (elective) (1 credit)
Text: Repaso
Pre-Requisite: Spanish III
This course is an overview of Spanish I-III grammar and
vocabulary concepts. Students will proceed in polishing their
skills through continued conversational, written, listening
comprehension and reading practice.
Emphasis is placed on conversation and listening skills,
and writing skills will be developed further.
Students will be expected to prepare short presentations
in Spanish about important figures in the Spanish-speaking
world.
Understanding Discussions and Conversations about Different
Topics at Higher Level of Thinking and Comprehension (what if
scenarios).
Reading Comprehension
Longer Readings (mostly consisting of short stories, and
excerpts from Spanish and Latin American literature and from
Latino writers in the United States.)
Latin I (elective) (1 credit)
This course is an introduction to the
Roman people and to the Latin language. Emphasis will be given
to the elements of the language: alphabet and pronunciation,
parts of speech, word-formation, and grammatical rules. Students
will also begin to learn the geography of the ancient Roman
world, an outline of Roman history, and important aspects of
Roman private and public life. The textbook will be
Wheelock’s Latin Grammar,
the first 18-20 chapters of which should be finished in the
first year. Toward the end of the year, Latin I students will
read the Perseus stories in
Fabulae Graecae.
Because this course is the foundation for the continuing study
of Latin,
it is vital that students develophabits of memorization,
attention to detail, preparation of daily work, and
organization. Memorization of word-forms is essential at this
level.
COURSE OBJECTIVES:
Latin I students will have studied and acquired: --the five
declensions of nouns (including i-stems); the demonstrative,
relative, interrogative, personal, reflexive, and intensive
pronouns; and adjectives of the first/second and third
declensions.; --the conjugation of the four kinds of regular
verbs (including third conjugation verbs in -io) in all the
tenses of the indicative, active and passive; and of the
irregular verbs sum and possum; --the meaning of most
prepositions and the cases which they govern; --a basic
vocabulary; --a moderate understanding of elementary Latin
syntax; --the ability to compose short sentences in Latin based
on an English exemplar.
Continuing with Wheelock’s Latin Grammar, a thorough review is made before learning new material (chapters 20-40), augmented with the reading of Fabulae Romanae. This course is preparation for encountering authentic Latin in the third year. Students must develop the work habits, reading skills, and knowledge critical for continued study in Latin. They must not approach the language as a string of words or simply memorize classroom translations. A solid knowledge of subordinate sentence structures, the architecture of a complex Latin sentence and skills for dealing with variable Latin word order are essential for this year and as preparation for next year. Fabulae Romanae will gradually improve students' reading abilities while providing a good basic survey of Roman history through the Monarchy (753-510 BC) and the Republic to the death of Cicero (43 BC). Students will learn Roman and ancient Mediterranean geography, Roman social and political customs, and those personal values the Romans admired most in great individuals.
COURSE OBJECTIVES: Latin II students will be able to: --read,
with appropriate assistance, slightly adapted to un-adapted
Latin prose; --translate selected seen passages from the
syllabus above; --translate an unseen passage of adapted
Latin
prose; --demonstrate comprehension of both seen and unseen
passages; --identify substantives by case, form, and function in
context; --identify finite and non-finite verb forms and uses;
--identify principal types of subordinate structures, both
finite and non-finite; --demonstrate knowledge of the principal
eras and episodes of Roman history; --demonstrate knowledge of
the significant individuals of Roman history; --demonstrate
knowledge of the values important in traditional Roman society;
--associate those values with the stories of significant Roman
individuals;
--the ability to compose longer sentences in Latin based on an
English exemplar.
Latin III (elective) (1 credit) This course will continue students' experience in reading original Latin prose and will introduce them to Latin poetry, including scansion and figures of speech. The year will begin with a thorough review of forms, vocabulary, during which any remaining chapters of Wheelock will be completed, to be followed by a few selections from Caesar’s De Bello Gallico. Third years will then read selections from Cicero’s oratory, from the private letters of Pliny, finally commencing to the study of mythological poetry through a careful reading of Catullus 64. Latin III students must of course demonstrate proficiency in translation skills, but must also move beyond mere translation to develop their own understanding, on firm textual evidence, about what they read.
COURSE OBJECTIVES:
Latin III students will be able to: --read, with appropriate
assistance, authentic Latin prose and poetry;--translate short
passages of Ciceronian prose not previously seen;--answer key
questions of comprehension about both seen and unseen
passages;--identify substantives by case, form, and function in
context; --identify finite and non-finite verb forms and
uses;--identify principal types of subordinate constructions;
--identify metrical patterns in lines of verse (dactyl, spondee,
elision, caesura); --scan dactylic hexameter verse and recite
metrically; --the ability to compose original continuous
passages in Latin; --identify rhetorical features found both in
prose and poetry; --comment intelligently, in classroom
presentations and/or written essays, upon literature read,
showing a firm understanding of the Latin original.
Latin IV AP (required) (1 credit)
This course is a comprehensive, college-level study of the
Aeneid,
the epic poem of the ancient Roman people by Publius Vergilius
Maro (70-19 BC), in preparation for the national AP Latin
examination in May, 2008.
Course objectives: Translation: Daily work will consist of both prepared translation and at-sight translation. The class will strive to cover 20-25 lines of text per class. Students will have prepared for translation about 10-15 lines of text: the remainder of the class period will be devoted to sight translation. All translations made in English must be as literal and as close to the Latin original as possible within the parameters of good English idiom. Grammatical Forms and Syntax: As students translate, they will be called upon to identify the form and syntax of words selected by the instructor. On exams and quizzes over previously translated material, grammar/syntax ID’s will occur. Scansion: Students will scan 2-3 lines of text as part of their daily preparation for class. Scansion practice will begin each day’s course work. Careful attention will be given to the ways variations in the meter of a line, as well and the use of elision, etc. reinforce or effect the meaning of the line. Figures of Speech and Stylistic Devices: A handout with the names, definitions, and examples of the most common figures of speech and stylistic devices will be given to each student on the first day of class. As each line of verse is translated in class, stylistic features and devices will be discussed, particularly in the ways they modify or enhance the meaning of the lines in which they occur.
World History I (required) (1 credit) This course presents the historical reality of the ancient world through the rise of classical Greece and the building of the Macedonian, Hellenistic and Roman Empires, juxtaposed with the historical events in Asia and Africa; the Incarnation as an historical event; the establishment of the Church at Pentecost following the Resurrection; the decline and fall of the Roman Empire and the triumph of Christianity; the challenge of the great heresies and how the Church overcame them; the invasions of the barbarians, the assault of Islam and the founding of the Holy Roman Empire; the Crusades; the development and climax of medieval Christendom and its decline to 1453.
World History II (required) (1 credit) A continuation of the world history survey, this course covers such topics as Spain and Portugal in the Age of Discovery; developments in Africa and Asia; causes and character of the Protestant Revolt and the Catholic Reform in the 16th and 17th centuries; royal absolutism, the French Revolution, Napoleon and the survival and renewal of the Church during the 18th and 19th centuries; 1917 as a pivotal year of the 10th century; Nazi and Communist aggression; the post WWII period to the present.
American History (required) (1
credit)
This course is a basic survey of American history and a study of
the American Catholic experience. Against the background of
mainstream American history (emphasizing the colonial
experience, the War of American Independence, the framing of the
Constitution, the expansion of the new nation, the Civil War and
Reconstruction) are such Catholic elements as early missionary
activity, the development of Catholic Maryland, the expansion of
the American Church and Catholic immigration.
U.S. History (elective) (1 credit)
This course studies the development of the United States into a
major industrial nation and world power and the concurrent
development of the Catholic Church in the United States,
particularly with reference to working men and immigrants.
This course covers the social, political, religious and cultural history of the Middle Ages from the conversion of Constantine the Great through the fall of Constantinople. (312 -1453 AD)
Political Science (required) (1/2 credit)
In Political Science, the focus is on the principles and beliefs
upon which the United States was founded and on the structure,
functions and powers of government at the national, state and
local levels.
Students learn major political ideas and forms of government in
history. A
significant focus of the course is on the U.S. Constitution, its
underlying principles and ideas and the form of government it
created. Students
analyze major concepts of republicanism, federalism, checks and
balances, separation of powers, popular sovereignty and
individual rights and compare the U.S. system of government with
other political systems.
Students analyze the impact of individuals, political
parties, interest groups and the media on the American political
system; evaluate the importance of voluntary individual
participation in a democratic society and analyze the rights
guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution.
The use of a variety of rich primary and secondary source
material such as the complete text of the U.S. Constitution,
selected Federalist Papers,
and landmark cases of the U.S. Supreme Court are included
as part of the
course. The ultimate
goal of the class is for each individual student to create their
own political ideology and relate it to today’s political
system.
The focus of this course is the basic principles concerning production, consumption and distribution of goods and services in the United States and a comparison with those in other countries around the world. Students examine the rights and responsibilities of consumers and businesses. Students analyze the interaction of supply, demand and price, and study the role of financial institutions in a free enterprise system. Types of business ownership and market structures are discussed, as are basic concepts of consumer economics. The impact of a variety of factors including geography, the federal government, economic ideas from important philosophers and historic documents, societal values and scientific discoveries and technological innovations on the national economy and economic policy is an integral part of the course. Students apply critical thinking skills and create a multitude of realistic projects concerning their interaction in the United States economic system.
Drama (elective) (1/2 credit)
This course introduces the student to the creative and
imaginative world of acting.
Students will study the origin of theater from many
countries. Students
will study acting styles, characterization, body movement for
stage relaxation and proper diction.
Students will learn from
Aristotle’s Poetics
the structure of a well-made play and learn to write a play
review and a play analysis.
Students enrolled in Drama will perform monologues,
duets, oral interpretations and short plays.
These exercises in acting promote the development of
self-esteem and self-confidence, working toward the development
of a self-assured and well-rounded student.
The seven formal elements of art:
color, form, shape, line,
space, texture, and value, are the building blocks of
art. When organized
under principles of design such as emphasis, rhythm,
balance, and unity, students can use these blocks to
demonstrate
effective use of art media and tools in design, drawing,
painting, printmaking, and sculpture.
They will rely on their perceptions of the environment,
developed through increasing visual awareness and sensitivity to
surroundings, memory, imagination, and life experiences as a
source for creating their own art.
Through formal
analysis and critique of their work and that of their
classmates, students
will develop the skills and first-hand experience to more
fully appreciate various artistic styles and significant
periods in art history.
The goal then of this course, is to help students express
their thoughts and ideas creatively, while challenging
their imagination, fostering reflective thinking, and developing
disciplined effort and problem-solving skills.
This course is designed to introduce students to basic drawing techniques using a variety of media. Students will work through exercises that develop hand-eye coordination, strengthening their skill in being able to visually record what the eye actually sees. The later part of the course allows the student artist to explore their ideas and to express their own unique style as they work toward a final portfolio.
Office Applications (required) (1/2 credit)
Computer Applications focuses on hands-on
projects using word processing applications, slide show
presentations, spreadsheet applications and database
applications. The
course also emphasizes the Internet as a research tool,
evaluation of web resources and the ethical use of computers.
Web Design (required) (1/2 credit)
Health (required) (1credit) Health Education offers students an opportunity to acquire knowledge, practice skills and develop attitudes that can benefit them throughout life. Building a solid foundation of good decision-making skills can contribute to a variety of healthy choices for self and others.
Physical Education (required) (1 credit) Physical Education provides learning experiences that contribute to the psychomotor, cognitive and affective development of each student. It also gives students knowledge and skills to make the most of their physical and mental abilities. It gives them the building blocks necessary for good health. Further, students learn to assess their own physical fitness and maintain healthy levels of physical activity. They learn new skills and improve performance while gaining the self-discipline to take part in individual and group activities. Students in physical education will participate in a program that consists of exercise and conditioning through aerobic agilities and weightlifting activities. Coaches will provide skill development for those students that participate in a T.A.P.P.S. recognized varsity sport.
Yearbook (elective) (1 credit) In this course, the yearbook staff learns about and produces the school’s annual yearbook. The course begins with basic design theory, law and production skills and finishes with the students working cooperatively to: compile a history of the school year through the use of themes, organizing production of the yearbook, designing of the publication, writing copy, providing the photography and implementing an effective sales campaign for the book. This class is for any 11th and 12th grader that would like to leave their fingerprint on the school’s history. | ||