HIGH SCHOOL
High School classes require a greater level of commitment on the part of the student. Courses at this level involve not only learning new concepts but also being able to analyze them and place them within the larger context of a worldview. Students should expect more rigorous homework assignments, weekly exams and long-term projects. Preparation for related college-board exams is a by-product of some high school level classes. Classes require the purchase of textbooks and other related materials.
Algebra I (6th to 9th graders)
Tuesdays, 9:30 am - 12:00 pm
Students explore algebra 1 with Saxon Algebra 1, 3rd edition, including signed numbers, exponents, two equations with two unknowns, graphing equations, scientific notation, ratio, percent, and unit conversions. Basic geometry topics include perimeter, area, volume, English to metric conversion, and surface area. Class time encompasses instruction of lessons and application of principles through sample problems. In addition, math-related current events may be assigned with students presenting their findings to peers. Each week students are assigned problems sets from the lessons. Quizzes and cumulative tests are given periodically. Readiness test required. Instructor: Marlene Theze
Algebra II (9th to 12th graders)
Day/Time TBD
Students will use Saxon’s Algebra 2, 3rd edition, curriculum to learn about: traditional second-year algebra topics; geometric functions like angles, perimeters and proportional segments; negative exponents; quadratic equations; logarithms and advanced factoring. In a typical day, the 2 hours of class time will encompass instruction of four lessons and application of principles through sample problems worked on the board. In addition, math-related current events may be assigned with students presenting their findings to the class. When appropriate, examples of algebra in action from science and engineering will be shared. Each week students will be assigned problems sets from the lessons. Quizzes and tests will be given periodically. Placement test required.
Instructor: Rani Walter
WriteStrong Writing, Part II (9th to 12th graders)
Tuesdays, 9:30 am - 12:00 pm
This college preparatory writing class uses Memoria Press' guides for literary analysis. Students read and think through the grammar, logic, and rhetoric stages toward the essence of the story. Classroom methodologies include Socratic discussions and grammar games, as well as technical writing workshops. Students will apply critical thinking skills not only to understand literary and rhetorical devices within novels, but also to communicate with audiences today. Literature analyzed will include The Great Gatsby and The Merchant of Venice. While this course may serve as a continuation to last year's high school writing curriculum, new students are also welcome! Instructor: Jessica Zakhari
Advanced Writing: Lost Tools 2 (9th to 12th graders)
Tuesdays, 9:30 am - 12:00 pm
Would you like your student to apply sound judgment in making decisions? The Lost Tools of Writing Level Two not only advances a student’s academic writing skills but also promotes important life skills. Building on the foundation prepared in Level One, LTW Level Two focuses on a particular persuasive essay called the judicial address. Students learn to persuade their readers of a “defendant’s” guilt or innocence. Like a detective or a lawyer, the student investigates and then evaluates events that have already occurred. Literary characters will serve as our “defendants”. This type of essay of necessity requires critical reasoning skills. To help students develop these skills, we will use The Thinking Toolbox and The Fallacy Detective by Nathaniel and Hans Bluedorn. Writing sample and teacher approval required for enrollment in this class. Instructor: Eleanor Braun
Studio Art, Part II (7th to 12th graders)
Tuesdays, 12:45 pm - 3:15 pm
In this combined middle and high school class, both new and returning students will learn the principles and concepts of design, developing the student’s knowledge of composition in two- and three-dimensional art. These elements and principles of design are the building blocks of art that will, not only improve the student’s artwork, but also, be used in all art careers. Students will learn the “why” and “how” of art techniques, which will enable them to develop the skills needed to become independent in creating their own artwork. We will examine different artists’ artworks, seeking to evaluate and recognize art techniques and concepts in action. Students will explore, experiment, and problem solve, as they create their own original works. Instructor: Patricia Storey
Experience Physics (9th to 12th graders)
Wednesdays, 9:30 am - 12:00 pm
Experience Physics is a college-prep high school class that explores physics using the SAVVAS Experience Physics curriculum. This modern physics curriculum implements a learning model that organizes learning around phenomena giving students an authentic, real-world experience. Experience Physics includes a variety of hands-on and digital activities designed to reach every learner. Periodic quizzes and cumulative tests are given. Prerequisites: Algebra 2 and proficiency in geometry and trigonometry. Instructor: Greg Koeser
World Religions and Cultures (9th to 12th graders)
Wednesdays, 12:45 pm - 3:15 pm
Throughout history and around the world, religion has shaped the political, social, and cultural aspects of society. Learn more about the world's major religions and role of religion in culture and society with engaging discussions, guest lecturers, and field trips to cultural institutions. PLEASE NOTE! This exciting new course offering is a one semester, 14-week course ending in January 2024.
Instructor: Lindsei Lansky Luciano
Advanced Math, Part I (9th to 12th graders)
Thursdays, 9:30 am - 12:00 pm
Students will begin a journey into precalculus using Saxon’s Advance Mathematics. This curriculum integrates topics from algebra, geometry, trigonometry, discrete mathematics, and word problem analysis among other topics. The depth and breadth of material make it necessary to teach this course over two academic years. By the end of Part 2, students will have completed geometry, trigonometry, and precalculus. In addition, PSAT and SAT math will be introduced and practiced. Class time encompasses instruction of lessons and application of principles through sample problems. Examples of algebra in action from science and engineering are shared. Each week students are assigned problems sets from the book. Periodically, closed-book quizzes will be completed at home. Text: Saxon Advanced Mathematics, 2rd Edition (revised). Prerequisite: Saxon Algebra 2 or placement test. Instructor: Terry Gilleland
Beginner Spanish (7th to 10th graders)
Thursdays, 9:30 am - 12:00 pm
Students will learn the basics of the Spanish language through listening, speaking, games, history, and cultural traditions. Class curriculum will include Difusion's Gente Joven, a Spanish textbook series developed specifically to appeal to middle and high school students. Instructor: Shirley DeCicco
Intermediate Spanish (9th to 12th graders)
Thursdays, 12:45 pm - 3:15 pm
Students will learn the basics of the Spanish language through listening, speaking, games, history, and cultural traditions. Class curriculum will include Difusion's Gente Joven, a Spanish textbook series developed specifically to appeal to middle and high school students. Instructor: Shirley DeCicco