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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 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
7 & 8 |
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| HUMANITIES |
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| The Writer’s Palette (M18): |
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Period 1 and 2 - Pd. 1 CLOSED
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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 4
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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 2 - CLOSED
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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 3
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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 2
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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 3 - CLOSED
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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 3 - CLOSED
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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 5
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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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| Algebraic Expressions (M26): |
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Period 1
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| For those students who have not yet taken Algebra I, let us introduce you to linear and quadratic equations,
polynomials, rational functions, and graphing. Class highlights include factoring algebraic expressions
and using algebra in solving word problems. Please note: Pre-Algebra is an absolute prerequisite for this class! |
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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 4 and 5 - 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 - CLOSED
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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): |
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Period 1
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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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| Thinking Outside and Beyond the Box (M35): |
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Period 5 - CLOSED
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| How is the circulatory system like a circus? Thinking
outside the box will help you make creative connections between seemingly disparate aspects of life. Those who are able to make unique parallels
will become our future problem-solvers. This class helps you prepare for that role. Learn strategies
and gain multiple perspectives that will assist you in applying creative solutions to problems now and in a future world. |
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| Graphic Arts as a Marketing Tool (M36): |
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Period 4 and 5 - Period 4 CLOSED
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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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| Business Basics (M37): |
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Period 3
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| What should be on a business card? How do you determine if there is a market for your product or invention? This class will walk you through the process
of making a business plan and implementing it. You’ll learn how to market a business successfully,
while learning how to be a smarter consumer at the same time. |
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| Survival: Will and Skill (M38): |
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Period 4
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| What would you do if you were caught in a mountain
snowstorm? How would you collect drinking water? Emergencies and disasters occur in our world – often without warning. This course will help prepare you to deal effectively with emergency
situations. You’ll learn about adapting to various climates, handling accidents and escape procedures,
and identifying edible plants.
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| Sensational Chocolate: Centuries of Salivation and Salvation (M39): |
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Period 5
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| Did you know that chocolate has played an important
role in economics and culture throughout history? Today, Americans eat about 12 pounds ofchocolate per person a year! Uncover the history of chocolate, learn how cacao is grown and manufactured, and investigate the cultural interactions and conservation concerns arising from the cultivation and consumption of cacao and chocolate. Create an original recipe using chocolate. |
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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 1 - CLOSED
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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 4 - CLOSED
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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 4 and 5 - Period 4 CLOSED
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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 - CLOSED
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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 4
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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 1 and 2 - CLOSED
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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 4
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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 2
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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 and 5 - Pd. 5 CLOSED
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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 3
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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 2 - CLOSED
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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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| The Golden Ratio (S53): |
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Period 5
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Discover nature’s perfect number and universal
truths as old as time itself. Examine works of architecture to find the “divine proportions”
within the structures. Dissect the paintings of Leonardo da Vinci to reveal their mathematical mysteries. Construct golden spirals and find their counterparts in nature and the universe. Discover the relationship between human attractiveness and the power of the golden ratio to gain a greater understanding of marketing and consumerism. |
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| MULTI-DISCIPLINARY |
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| Two Heads Are Better Than One: Comparing the Male and Female Brain
(S55): |
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Period 2
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| Behavioral and neurological differences between men and women have long been an area of fascination
and heated debate. But, just what are the differences between male and female brains and where are these differences located? Discover what studies have revealed about total brain size, the corpus callosum, and the hypothalamus of men and women. Conduct research in the areas of perceptual speed, object displacement, mathematical
calculation, spatial perception, and disembedding
ability. Construct your own views based on research about whether brain differences have a neuroanatomical basis. |
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| Fashion: The Fabric of Our Lives (S56): |
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Period 4 - CLOSED
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| For centuries, societies have used clothing
and accessories to indicate occupation, gender,
social strata, wealth, and group affiliation. What we wear and how we wear it are forms of non-verbal, instantaneous communication of individual
and group identity. Discover how fashion is a barometer of culture and trace its history from utilitarian function to iconography of self. |
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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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| Stewards of the World: Sustainability (S58): |
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Period 3 - CLOSED
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| Become an informed decision maker and analyze how to use the world’s resources in ways that will benefit present and future generations. Examine the network of dependent relationships that exist between the environment, the economy, and the culture. Explore solutions for protecting and restoring our ecosystems, efficiently using fossil
fuels, and promoting economic growth and socially
responsible objectives. |
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| Globalization: The Cash and Clash of Civilizations (S60): |
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Period 1 - CLOSED
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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 1 - CLOSED
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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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| The Cutting Edge of Medicine: Splicing DNA (S62): |
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Period 4 - CLOSED
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| The science of genetics has evolved into a field of dramatic possibilities. Discover the miracles of gene technology today, from miracle drugs to gene therapy, or from cloning to the human genome
project. Debate the ethics of such scientific development. Come be a part of the discussions, research the issues, and make recommendations on this critical topic in medicine today. (Prerequisite:
Biology) |
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| College Preparation Course (S79): |
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Period 1 - CLOSED
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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 2 |
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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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| Singing Sensations (A64): |
| Period 4 |
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| Do you think of yourself as a potential American Idol? Find the entertainer inside and know the audience
outside. You’ll learn how to expand your range, employ breath control, interpret lyrics, use good singing posture, take care of your vocal instrument,
use a microphone, and do warm-up exercises.
In addition to increasing vocal power, this course will help you develop your image, make the most of your talent, nail an audition and investigate a potential career in the entertainment industry. |
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| Laugh Tracks (A65): |
| Period 3 - CLOSED |
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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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| Digital Photography (A69) (grades 7-11 only): |
| Period 2 and 3 - 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 |
| Fencing: Foils to Epees (R75): |
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Period 1 and 2
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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 5 - CLOSED
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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 4
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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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| DanceSport: Dance Your Way to Fitness (R78): |
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Period 3 - CLOSED
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| The true equalizer, DanceSport is one of the few sports where male and female athletes compete against each other at the same time on the same surface. It also holds great fascination for viewers of such shows as Dancing with the Stars and So, You think You can Dance. Learn the finer elements of timing, rhythm, movement, footwork, and floorcraft, as you dance the waltz, tango, foxtrot
and quickstep. Fitness is only a dance away! |
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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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