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| Course Descriptions |
Typically, students choose two or three academic courses, one
or two arts and/or recreational courses, and one study/tutorial.
There are five seventy-five minute periods (Periods I - V) in the
daily schedule Monday through Friday. Students select from the course
listing, choosing courses from the appropriate level.
Please note: Although a very high percentage of the courses listed
below will run at the campus, we cannot guarantee a given course
will run. Students should select alternate courses when registering
for courses. |
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In this section:
Courses
for students currently in grades 4, 5 & 6
Courses
for students currently in grades 7 & 8
Courses
for students currently in grades 9, 10 & 11
Visual
and performing arts courses (all grades, unless noted)
Fitness
and recreation courses (all grades, unless noted)
Study/Tutorials (all grades) |
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| Courses for students currently in grades
4, 5 & 6 |
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| HUMANITIES |
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| Speaking of Writing (J01) |
|
Period 1
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| Creative writing and eloquent speech-making join forces in this course. Evaluate and improve your writing skills and then deliver your written word through public speaking practice. Work on precision of language, imagery, figures of speech, and the revision process. Then, learn the skills required for professional speech-making. Learn how to move audiences with your written and spoken word. |
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| Going to Court (J02): |
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Period 2
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| “All rise for the honorable judge….you!” Through the process of enacting trials, you will experience the justice system of the United States. You’ll take on the roles of judge, jury, prosecutor, defender or witness. Through active involvement in the courtroom
drama, you will learn to organize facts, develop
your speaking and questioning abilities, and understand the concepts of justice through jury deliberation. |
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| Fantasy Fiction Fun (J03): |
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Period 3
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| What would the world be like without Harry Potter and other fictional characters that make us love reading? Immerse yourself in the genre of fantasy
fiction, explore and celebrate what makes it unique, then create your own fictional characters and the worlds in which they live. You could be the next J.K. Rowling! |
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| MATH AND SCIENCE |
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| Creative Math Paths (J04): |
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Period 4
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| Develop your math problem-solving ability as well as your real-life problem-solving strategies. Challenging
problems will provide opportunities for intuitive and inductive reasoning, mathematical discovery, reasoning skill, insight, creativity, and originality. Expand
your thinking through mathematical activities, and discover multiple methods to solving a problem. It’s great preparation for real-life problem solving. |
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| Anticipating Algebra (J05): |
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Period 5
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| “When will I ever use algebra?” you ask. Here’s one way. Introduce yourself to pre-algebra through this class that focuses on applications of algebra in the world. In addition to tackling concepts of linear equations, polynomial functions and factoring, you may also have time for fun with games, tessellations,
and probability. |
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| Dollar Scholars (J06): |
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Period 1
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| Investing isn’t just for adults anymore. Young people live in an age when the world of finance is an integral part of everyone’s daily life. This class will introduce you to the world of investing so that you can make the most of your money even as a young person. Topics will include savings and interest, income and expenses, and the basics of the stock market. You’ll invest some imaginary money in order to discover your risk tolerance level in a stress-free way. |
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| Chemistry: The Essential Element (J07): |
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Period 2
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| Welcome to the laboratory that is the world in which you live. Experiment with domestic chemicals, environmental
materials, foods, and living organisms to discover the chemical nature of substances, their properties, reactions, and uses in daily life. Design a series of experiments to test your hypotheses about the reaction of substances. |
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| It’s a Blast Off! (J08): |
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Period 3
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| “Five, four, three, two, one…” Blast off to the fascinating field of airplane design and rocketry. Celebrate over one hundred years of flight. Learn about motion and propulsion, space, and space exploration as you build your own working models of airplanes, rockets, and space rovers. |
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| The Search for Life in Outer Space: Astrobiology to Xenobiology (J09): |
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Period 4
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What would life look like on a glacial planet? A gaseous
one? How do you think life evolves to endure extreme planetary conditions? What are the implications of the latest findings on Mars? Debate these questions and more, as you search the universe for the existence of life. |
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| Zest for Zoology (J10): |
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Period 5
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| Did you know that a gorilla adopted an orphaned kitten and nursed it back to life? Did you know that pigs are the third smartest land mammals? Do you wonder why dogs are man’s best friend? You’ll explore
these questions and more in the fascinating realm of zoology. Discover the similarities and differences between vertebrates and invertebrates. Choose your favorite animal to research. |
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| MULTI-DISCIPLINARY |
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| Spying: Secrets, Surveillance, and Science (J13): |
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Period 3
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| Did you know that the newest satellite technology can look into your living room from thousands of miles away in space? Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be a spy and monitor this technology? Did you know that some of the gadgets from James Bond really exist? Come discover how spies keep—or uncover— secrets. Get an inside look at the science behind the spy’s tricks of the trade. Create an original spy gadget and persuade your peers of its usefulness. Analyze the relationship
between spying and the invasion of privacy. |
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| Move Over Sherlock (J14): |
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Period 4
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| HHow do real detectives solve mysteries? Come examine
how modern crime investigators use cutting-
edge scientific discoveries to search for evidence,
gather clues, and analyze data. Participate in a simulated mystery where you become the detective
as you learn skills in logic, inductive and deductive reasoning, data collection, and analysis. This is a great way to practice using your scientific problem solving skills! |
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| The Proof is in the Logic (J15): |
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Period 5
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| Do you reach your conclusions using a logical and organized process? Would you like to improve this skill? If so, this course in developing logic skills will help you organize your ideas, sharpen your scientific
thinking, and sort out the complexities of social relationships. You’ll learn to construct and refute arguments using symbolic as well as numerical
data. Learn how logic is closely associated with philosophy, mathematics, computer science, and law. |
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| Arrgh! Pirates, Past and Present (J16): |
| Period 1 |
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| “Ahoy, matey!” From sea thieves and buccaneers
to airplane hijackers and identity thieves, piracy has had a long and often violent history. Discover the differences between pirate fact and fiction as you learn about the harsh life aboard ships as compared to the romantic tales of characters like Peter Pan. Learn how modern thievery can ruin your credit and good name and what you can do to protect your identity and privacy. |
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| Future City Design(J17): |
| Period 2 |
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| Explore the challenges of the future! Take on the roles of chemical, mechanical,
electrical, aeronautical, and civil engineers as you develop a vision for a future city. Construct a scale model that evidences your ideas for future architectural design, transportation, communication,
recreation, environmental concerns, and the health and safety of your future citizens. |
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| Courses for students currently in grades
7 & 8 |
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| HUMANITIES |
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| The Writer’s Palette (M18): |
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Period 1
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| Learn how to create a masterpiece of characterization
and setting. Gain experience and practice writing effectively and creatively by analyzing and editing your own work. Discussions about style, the structure of fictional pieces, and reader involvement
will help you understand the functions of writing as entertainment, documentation, and creative expression. |
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| Word Power (M19): |
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Period 2
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| Amaze your friends with your verbal prowess. Build a vibrant vocabulary and learn the secrets to deciphering new words. Explore the fascinating and often humorous world of word and phrase origins.
Increase your verbal reasoning skills. |
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| What’s Your Point? (M20): |
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Period 3
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| Did you ever feel strongly about a controversial issue
but felt unable to state your position? This debate
course will help you correct that. You will have the opportunity to argue controversial issues using a debating format. The content will stress public
speaking delivery, organizational skills, quick thinking, awareness of issues, and knowledge of current events. You will leave with a readiness for advanced forms of debate. |
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| Roots of Human Behavior (M21): |
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Period 4 - CLOSED
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| What are the theories behind why we act as we do? Study the psychology of human behavior to help you understand more about yourself. This course will survey past and current theories in human development,
mental health, and social relationships. You’ll examine the roots of personality and behavior
as seen through the theories of Freud, Skinner,
Maslow, and Erickson. You’ll have a chance to evaluate the validity of the theories in the light of your own life experiences. |
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| Inquiring Minds (M22): |
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Period 5
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| What is the meaning of life? This class will focus on basic logic skills, critical and creative thinking, and creating a community of inquiry. You will learn how to ask and answer life’s big questions and read excerpts written by others who have thought deeply about the same philosophical issues. |
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| Mysteries in History (M23): |
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Period 2
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| The great, unsolved mysteries of the past continue
to intrigue us today. From Amelia Earhart’s disappearance, to the Kennedy assassination, to the Lindbergh kidnapping, you’ll have a chance to explore the evidence to determine what really happened
in these cases. Using primary sources, secondary
sources, literature of the period, and good research techniques, you will pursue individual projects as well as hold a trial to determine who was really responsible for one of the great historical mysteries. |
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| Journey into Jurisprudence (M24): |
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Period 1
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“Hear ye, hear ye… the trial is about to begin.” Mock courtroom drama will unfold as you become the players in a series of exciting simulated trials that depict the way our legal system functions. The structure of our court system, the functions of judge and jury, basic trial procedures and the strategies that attorneys use to win cases will be explored. Study the cases that have fascinated law students for decades. Develop your abilities to organize
and interpret facts, to ask questions, and to make effective decisions. |
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| Mandarin: Phonology, Vocabulary & Writing (M25): |
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Period 3
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| Did you realize that nearly a billion people in the world speak varieties of Mandarin? Mandarin dialects have more speakers than any other language and Mandarin is one of only six official languages of the United Nations. Learn the basics of Mandarin, from its phonology, to introductory vocabulary, to writing. Discover the importance of Mandarin to world culture and custom. Become a communicator with a people who are now the world’s rising economic power. |
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| MATH AND SCIENCE |
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| Geometric Highlights (M27): |
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Period 5 - CLOSED
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| For math lovers who have not yet studied geometry,
here’s a chance for you to explore this fascinating
field of math. Learn the secrets of the Golden Rectangle and the Divine Proportion. Investigate the power of symmetry. Topics may include the notion of proof, congruent triangles, perpendicularity, parallelism,
geometric inequalities, similarity, circles and spheres, area and volume, and vectors. Pre-requisite:
Algebra I |
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| Bonding with Chemistry (M28): |
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Period 1
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| Gain entry into the chemist’s world by exploring some of the abstract concepts of chemistry that provide the basis for studying higher levels of this subject matter. You’ll study topics such as chemical formulas, equations, stoichiometry, the chemistry of metals and nonmetals, chemical bonding, polarity, and acid-base chemistry. A pocket calculator is required. |
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| Biology Basics (M29): |
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Period 3 - CLOSED
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| Discover the secrets of the building blocks of life! Come get acquainted with some of the fundamental principles and processes of biological systems. You will be introduced
to basic chemistry, metabolism, photosynthesis, cellular energy processes, reproduction and genetics. Gain insight into how living things co-exist. |
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| Robot Rendezvous (M30): |
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Period 2
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Did you know that robotics experts study the movement of insects and birds and mimic it in the movement of the robots they design? This class will explore machines, types of forces and structures, motion and performance analysis. You’ll be a part of a team to simulate designs and constructions of robots that fulfill specialized functions.
You will also engage in discussions about the future
of robotics and the ethical considerations to their design. |
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| Fermi’s Flabbergasting Phenomena (M31): |
|
Period 1 and 4
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| How many piano tuners are there in New York City? How does one even approach this question? What does the answer to this question
depend upon? Fermi Questions, named after the famed physicist Enrico Fermi, require the student to take multiple directions when solving a problem. Students
engage in algorithmic and intuitive approaches to solve the most daunting problems. Fermi questions are unique in the realm of mathematics, in that they do not have single solutions. Collaboration and worldly
wisdom are used in conjunction with mathematical and scientific knowledge to arrive at solutions. |
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| MULTI-DISCIPLINARY |
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| Graphic Arts as a Marketing Tool (M36): |
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Period 4
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| Why are the colors red and yellow used so frequently
in marketing logos? How is the design of a billboard different from a magazine ad? Take a look at the commercial applications of art and design as you develop and expand your aesthetic perception,
acquire knowledge of the technology that supports graphic illustration, and survey careers in the graphic design field. Design brochures, flyers,
posters, newsletters, and an original product of your own. |
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| Down with Disease! (M40): |
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Period 2
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| Germs are not stopped by airport security! They have no boundaries, and so, global health is local health. Millions in the world lack access
to basic sanitation, clean water, and nutritious food. These conditions create breeding grounds for infectious diseases. Explore social and economic indicators such as life expectancy, wealth, and education,
and learn how they compare to the distribution
of the world’s deadliest diseases. Determine what your responsibility to worldwide wellness is. |
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| A Word to The Wise: Differences Between Intelligence and Wisdom (M41): |
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Period 4
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| Since the time of Aristotle, wisdom has been contemplated by philosophers, theologians, and people concerned with living a life of meaning. Famous
paragons of wisdom include such people as Buddha, Winston Churchill, Jesus, Helen Keller, and Eleanor Roosevelt. Examine the ancient and modern definitions of wisdom. Learn what the scientific
study of wisdom has revealed. Discover how attaining wisdom is related to longevity, adaptation to new environments, and outcomes beyond personal
self-interest. |
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| Global Climate, Global Change (M42): |
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Period 5
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| Humanity’s need for natural resources is insatiable. We have burned up fossil fuels at a much faster rate than that at which they were created, upsetting the carbon cycle. How do we strike a balance between the consumption of resources
and the environmental effects of this consumption?
Scientists no longer debate whether climate
change will have serious effects on the earth, but rather, how we are facing the challenges of that change. Who will take the lead in combating the adverse effects of global warming? What are the responsibilities of the industrializers to developing
countries? Join your peers to confront these problems. |
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| Courses for students currently
in grades 9, 10 & 11 |
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| HUMANITIES |
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| Word Origins for SAT Success
(S43): |
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Period 1
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| The etymology of words is a fascinating study in unlocking
the complexities of linguistic relationships. This class will improve your vocabulary and understanding
of word origins. You’ll have the chance to practice taking sample tests, learn test-taking tactics, and improve your verbal confidence. You’ll employ your new vocabulary as you practice writing
for the current SAT writing component. |
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| Writing Matters (S44): |
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Period 3
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| Do you want to move people with your words? This intensive workshop in reading excerpts from the varied styles of contemporary authors and in developing your own writing style will challenge and motivate you. You’ll gain invaluable practice in communicating your thoughts, feelings, and knowledge, vividly and expressively through the written word. |
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| Guiding Principles of Philosophy (S45): |
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Period 3
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| Now more than ever, the western and eastern parts of the world must strive to understand each other. Survey the major philosophical traditions of Eastern and Western civilization and analyze important social
and political issues from various perspectives. Study some of the famous philosophers such as Lao-Tze, Confucius, Socrates, Plato, Hume, Kant, and Nietzsche. Develop a philosophy of your own. |
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| Psychological Perspectives (S47): |
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Period 2 and 3
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| This course introduces the student to the study of human behavior from various perspectives across the life span.It covers a wide range of topics, which include biological foundations, perception, motivation
and emotion, learning, memory and thinking, individual differences, intelligence, personality, development, and behavior disorders and their treatment. Conduct research that critically evaluates
one theory of personality development. Analyze
the relationship between the study of psychology
and the fields of teaching, business, and law. (Double Period Class) |
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| MATH AND SCIENCE |
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| Highlights of Algebra II with Trigonometry (S48): |
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Period 2
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Come hit the highlights of Algebra II and trigonometry,
such as quadratic and cubic polynomials, the binomial theorem, the Principle of Mathematical Induction,
irrational expressions, complex numbers, and exponential and logarithmic functions. A scientific
calculator is recommended. (Prerequisites: Algebra I and Geometry) |
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| Getting Into Calculus (S49): |
| Period 1
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For those who have never taken calculus, this course is an excellent way to start. Topics include the study of functions, limits, continuity, and derivatives.
The graphical approach is used to study the “slope of the curve”. You’ll examine important applications
of differential calculus as you prepare for college mathematics. (Prerequisite: Trigonometry) |
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| Jump Start Your SAT Math Score (S50) |
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Period 3
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Don’t sweat those Math SATs; prepare for them. This class is designed to help you improve your math scores on standardized exams. Using past sample practice tests, you’ll gain the confidence and skill you need to score well on standardized tests. Bring your scientific calculators. (Prerequisite: Algebra I and Geometry) |
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| Physics Fundamentals in Motion (S51) |
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Period 4
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In this theory course, you will study kinematics, statics and dynamics, energy, and momentum to further your understanding of the world around you. Through demonstrations and experiments, you will learn not only the principles of physics, but also design techniques, technical writing, and how to manipulate variables and physical concepts. |
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| Applications of Chemistry (S52): |
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Period 5
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This chemistry class will look at the theories and laws of chemistry. You will study stoichiometry, chemical periodicity, chemical bonding, organic chemistry, equilibrium, and redox reactions. A pocket calculator is required. |
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| MULTI-DISCIPLINARY |
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| The Secrets of Symbols (S57): |
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Period 5
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| Symbolism is humankind’s oldest form of visual communication. Long before the advent of written language, humans used symbols to convey ideas, beliefs, and profound feeling. The use of symbols can be found in every culture and historical period. Discover the significance and meaning of symbols from cave drawings to Egyptian
tombs to master works of art. Develop a true understanding of this rich, mysterious, and deeply complex non-verbal language and its relevance to your own communication. |
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| Globalization: The Cash and Clash of Civilizations (S60): |
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Period 4
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| Globalization--the integration of capital, technology,
and information across national borders -- is creating a single global market. Globalization is as old as the human race, but its magnitude is unique to this century. How will this changing world economy impact your future? Here is an opportunity for you to understand your future as it is affected by globalization’s impact on culture, the environment, politics, business, and standards of living around the world. |
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| Crime Scene Investigation (S61): |
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Period 2
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| Learn fingerprinting, hair analysis, handwriting analysis, and the importance of chain of custody when solving a crime. This introduction to forensic science will cover evidence collection guidelines, photography, profiling, and career training. Crime scene investigators draw upon their knowledge of chemistry, biology, physics, entomology, botany, and computer science to solve their mysteries. Investigate
whether this could be a career for you. Create a mystery for your peers to solve. |
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| College Preparation Course (S79): |
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Period 5
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| What you really need to know about the college application
process from the test taking, to the essay, to the campus visit, to the interview. Learn how to write an essay that will impress the reader with its unity and coherence. Gain valuable test-taking strategies. Create a resume that describes the real you. Practice interview questions and behaviors that will make a lasting impression. Gain the confidence
to improve your chances for acceptance into the most highly-regarded colleges. |
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| Visual and Performing Arts Courses |
| Lock, Pop, and Hip Hop (A63): |
| Period 3 |
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| Bring your sneakers and your soul! It’s all about having fun and feeling healthy. You’ll learn the most up-to-date dance moves while you get a great aerobic workout! Learn body rolls, arm rolls, moonwalking and more! Experience imaginative choreography and improve your stage presence. Create a new dance form. |
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| Laugh Tracks (A65): |
| Period 4 |
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| Humor is associated with great intelligence. This introduction to comedic improvisation will help you gain confidence in your ability to perform spontaneously.
You can make the most of your comedic talents while learning to loosen up, think quickly, and develop humorous characterizations. Great practice for developing intuition and teamwork skills too! |
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| Broadway Beckons (A66): |
| Period 5 - CLOSED |
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| Sing! Dance! Act! The show will go on! Learn vocal techniques, dance and movement exercises, and character acting skills-all pertaining to a selected production. The class will present a mini-musical presentation at the end of the three weeks. Some recreation hour rehearsals may be required. |
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| Two and Three-D Media: Drawing and Sculpting (A68): |
| Period 1 |
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| Express yourself in pencil, ink, or three dimensions. Develop your techniques in perspective,
light, and shading. Learn the fundamentals of positive and negative space. Create an original, displayable work. |
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| Digital Photography (A69) (grades 7-11 only): |
| Period 2 - CLOSED |
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| Digital photography, a radically different technique from conventional photography, has changed the world of image recording. Learn how to enhance your own photographs to express yourself through a captured moment. If you like computers and cameras, this course is for you. You must bring your own digital camera to participate in this class. A 1G flash drive is highly recommended as well. (This course is for grades 7-11.) |
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| Fitness and Recreation Courses |
| Tennis, Anyone? (R70): |
|
Period 3 and 4
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| Learn the basics of scoring, strokes, volleys and serves. For those students who have already developed
intermediate level playing skills, this class will give you the opportunity to perfect your strokes, learn new strategies, and improve your game play by competing against other experienced players in the class. Bring your tennis racquet to camp! |
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| Getting in the Swim of Things (R71): |
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Period 5
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| Expert swimming instruction will be given at the beginning, intermediate, and advanced levels. A certified swimming instructor will help you improve your swimming skills. What a great way to chill out in the summer while you’re getting in shape! Bring your goggles! |
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| Volleyball Vitals (R72): |
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Period 1
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| The increasingly popular sport of volleyball encourages
teamwork, flexibility, and strength. You’ll also need quick thinking as you participate in this international sport. Progress to tournament play as you master serving, volleying, and strategizing. Both beginners and experienced players will enjoy this class. Kneepads recommended. |
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| Sports Spot (R73): |
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Period 2 - CLOSED
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| If you love to be physically fit through all kinds of organized team sports, you’ll enjoy this sports bonanza. Engage in old favorites such as softball, touch football, basketball, volleyball, and soccer. Try your hand at Ultimate Frisbee. |
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| Fencing: Foils to Epees (R75): |
|
Period 3 and 4 - Pd. 3 CLOSED
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| Fencing-the mental prowess of chess, the grace of the athlete! Develop basic technique, form, finesse,
and balance essential for success as a fencer. Refine your skills as you are paired with others of similar ability. The foil technique will emphasize
a strong defense and body attack. Those who possess the skills will work with epees and sabers. Basic equipment will be provided. |
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| Meditation: Mantras, Mandalas, and Mindfulness (R76): |
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Period 1
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| All meditation traditions share the core elements of attention, awareness, understanding and compassion.
Meditation makes your brain stronger, builds concentration and creates the ultimate natural high. Practice various meditation techniques and discover how meditation reduces stress and helps in healing. Learn how using mantras, mandalas, and visualization techniques increases mindfulness
and self-awareness. |
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| Self-Defense Sense (R77): |
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Period 2
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| Self-defense strategies are important, not only in self-protection, but also in building physical and mental discipline. This class will help you present
a commanding presence as you gain control and confidence through such strategies as awareness
of your surroundings, wrist escapes, defense against body holds, and blocking. A healthy lifestyle
is built on self-discipline, fitness and goal setting-
the foundations of effective self-defense! |
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| Study/Tutorials |
| Most students choose to have a study/tutorial as one of their courses
during the five-period academic day. All students have a supervised evening
study/tutorial. In the study/tutorial, students work on projects, do research,
and complete assignments. |
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| Academic Program |
| Courses cover humanities, sciences
and mathematics, visual and performing arts, and fitness and recreation. |
| Find out more |
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