Allison Academy High School Curriculum

English 9 Honors is a rigorous, demanding course designed to follow the English 9 curriculum with additional readings and accelerated writing projects. Ninth grade is an important year for establishing a foundation of skills that you will build upon throughout high school. We will be working all year to develop critical thinking skills and close reading strategies as you analyze literature from multiple genres, periods, and cultures. This course will also place emphasis on developing and strengthening your writing skills – you will gain experience with the writing process through a variety of writing exercises, both formal (paragraphs, essays, reading responses, research projects) and informal (creative writing, journals, blogs). Finally, you will be expected to participate in class discussions and collaborate with your peers to provide feedback on each other’s writing and to share various perspectives on the literature that we study.

This course is designed to transition students from middle school reading and language arts to the rigorous expectations of a high school English classroom. The study of literature includes reading and comprehending a wide variety of literary forms from the Commonlit website, as well as through the study of a novel during the second half of the year. The course also offers supportive reading strategies for a variety of purposes. In addition, the class will teach grammatical concepts and applications as well as reviewing punctuation, capitalization, spelling, and usage by means of the website, No Red Ink. Finally, Membean provides an individualized vocabulary program for each student to be utilized both in the classroom and at home.

English 10 Honors is a course designed to develop advanced language, literature, and analysis skills. Students will study all aspects of literature including Shakespeare, poetry, non-fiction, short stories, and drama. Literary analysis, expressive writing, and persuasive techniques. This course will build the foundation to move on into the 11th grade Advanced Placement class. Evidence of higher-level thinking and independent work is expected and required.

This course builds upon the 9th grade course, helping students increase their word knowledge and vocabularies, while they practice their discussion and speaking skills. English 10 is a critical literature-based instructional program designed to develop student reading, speaking, listening, and critical thinking skills. The study of literature includes reading and comprehending a wide variety of literary forms from the Commonlit website. In addition, the class will teach grammatical concepts and applications as well as reviewing punctuation, capitalization, spelling, and usage by means of the website, No Red Ink. Finally, Membean provides an individualized vocabulary program for each student to be utilized both in the classroom and at home.

This is an advanced college-level course that will prepare students for the Advanced Placement Literature exam as well as develop the appreciation of literature and improve writing abilities. Students will learn how to analyze, interpret, and make arguments about various forms of literature to include poetry, short stories, and novels. Students engage in close reading and critical analysis of literature to deepen their understanding of the ways writers use language to provide both meaning and pleasure. As they read, students will consider a work’s structure, style, and themes, as well as its use of literary elements such as figurative language, imagery, and symbolism. A variety of styles and time periods will be explored covering literature from the 16th century until today. The course will explore both American and British authors, and occasionally authors from other parts of the world.  The course will focus on fiction, but occasionally analyze non-fiction works. The course will focus heavily on writing along with the interpretation of texts. The writing will focus on making claims and arguments about the texts that are explored, as well as improving the overall writing ability of the student in a way that will translate to other courses the student may take in the future. 

The course will cover the following standards:

1. Reading standards for literature
2. Writing Standards
3. Language Standards

This course presents a survey of American literature from the period of exploration and settlement to the present. Students study works of prose, poetry, drama, and fiction in relation to their historical and cultural contexts. Texts will be selected from among a diverse group of authors for what they reflect and reveal about the evolving American experience and character. Students will analyze literary works as expressions of individual or communal values within the social, political, cultural, or religious contexts of different literary periods. Students will also write personal responses to writing and create pieces imitating the authors being studied.

This is an advanced college-level course that will prepare students for the Advanced Placement Literature exam as well as develop the appreciation of literature and improve writing abilities. Students will learn how to analyze, interpret, and make arguments about various forms of literature to include poetry, short stories, and novels. Students engage in close reading and critical analysis of literature to deepen their understanding of the ways writers use language to provide both meaning and pleasure. As they read, students will consider a work’s structure, style, and themes, as well as its use of literary elements such as figurative language, imagery, and symbolism. A variety of styles and time periods will be explored covering literature from the 16th century until today. The course will explore both American and British authors, and occasionally authors from other parts of the world.  The course will focus on fiction, but occasionally analyze non-fiction works. The course will focus heavily on writing along with the interpretation of texts. The writing will focus on making claims and arguments about the texts that are explored, as well as improving the overall writing ability of the student in a way that will translate to other courses the student may take in the future. 

The course will cover the following standards:

1. Reading standards for literature
2. Writing Standards
3. Language Standards

British Literature covers the major periods of Great Britain’s literature in chronological order: the Anglo-Saxon period, the Middle Ages and Medieval periods, the Renaissance and Neoclassical eras, the Romantic and Victorian eras, and the modern era.  Students will develop and improve their reading, writing, thinking, speaking, and researching skills through close reading and written literary analysis, research and compose several papers, speeches, and presentations using representative forms of discourse.  Students are expected to be active readers as they analyze and interpret textual detail, establish connections among their observations, and draw logical inferences toward an interpretive conclusion. The course will also include a writing component that focuses on argumentative, informational, and explanatory writing about the literature through both discussion and essay format.

1 Semester

The High School Research Writing Course will explore the research process from the prewriting stage to the revision stage. Students will plan and develop one research report, practicing and mastering each step of the research process before moving on to the next step. At the end of the class, students will be able to plan, develop, draft, and revise a research paper with parenthetical citations and a Works Cited page, all utilizing MLA or APA styles. This course will prepare students for writing research reports in college.

1 Semester

The Creative Writing course will focus on expressive writing in many different forms. Students will have the opportunity to explore several different types of poetry and prose styles, as well as responding to literature, art mediums, quotes, and music. Originality and writing that shows thought will be emphasized. Strategies to avoid writer’s block and new ways to uncover ideas for writing will be studied. Peer reviews and sharing ideas are essential elements to this course.

Students in Creative Writing will write poems, short stories, plays, news stories, comic strips, children’s books, an autobiography, and other types of writing that express creativity. Students will also study writing samples from professional writers as well as student writers to guide student progress.

1 Semester

Introduction to film introduces students to the basics of film analysis, cinematic formal elements, genre, and narrative structure and helps students develop the skills to recognize, analyze, describe, and enjoy film as an art and entertainment form. To understand how films are constructed to make meaning and engage audiences, students will be introduced to the basic “building blocks” and formal elements (narrative, mise-en-scene, cinematography, sound and editing) that make up the film as well as some fundamental principles of analysis, genre, style, performance, and storytelling. The class includes weekly readings, screenings, and short writing assignments. 

1 Semester

Introduction to Drama introduces students to various types of dramatic literature, from the ancient Greek dramas to contemporary Eastern and Western Theatre. Its purpose is to familiarize students with not only the history and theoretical aspects of theatre, but also its practical manifestations through playwriting, acting, directing, stage production and theatre management.

1 Semester

Introduction to Journalism will be your gateway to the exciting and evolving world of journalism. It is practical, designed to teach you to think like a journalist, analyze and critique the news media and introduce you to basic writing, reporting, interviewing, and editing skills and habits. In this class, you will work as a journalist, learning the ingredients of news and newsgathering as well as how to tell stories across media platforms (print, radio, television, digital and social media) in our ever-changing era of 21st-century media disruption and convergence. You will learn how to cover a variety of people, places, things, events, and issues – and discuss and understand the importance of news and media literacy. Above all, you will write, write, edit, and write some more.

1 Semester

Introduction to Yearbook produces the Allison Academy yearbook. In this course, students will gain skills in the following areas: page design, publishing techniques, copy writing, editing, photography, record keeping, time management, teamwork, marketing, and leadership skills. Students are tasked with producing a timeless, creative, and innovative publication which will record our school’s community, memories, and events.

This High School Art course expands and helps improve upon the foundation set in the middle school art classes. This course develops the students’ self-expression, creativity, and builds self-confidence through the creative process. Students will explore a variety of artists, art styles and techniques. Through the art process, the students will utilize a variety of media and manipulate the elements and principles of design to compose their own unique pieces of art.  The students will also explore famous art pieces, art genres and artists throughout history. With their knowledge of these concepts, the students will be able to describe and analyze the variations of elements, principles, techniques; mediums used and determine the style of art that is depicted. The course will approach units in a cross-curricular manner blending social studies, mathematics, science, and music with art.  Some mediums and art processes used in this course are drawing, collaging, painting, oil pastels, chalk pastels, clay, weaving, embossing, and two- and three-dimensional design.

Through the High School Arts Curriculum, students will work to efficiently master and expand on the following:

• Using the knowledge, skills and techniques acquired to create personal art pieces with a wide range of art mediums.
• Discover a wide range of ideas about the meaning and purpose of visual art.
• Develop a more sophisticated understanding of the diverse art genres, styles, and artists throughout history.
• Analyzing a variety of global, cultural, and historical connections throughout the visual arts.
• Apply the knowledge of design techniques and the elements of art in personal art creations.

This course was designed to follow the Next Generation Sunshine State Standards for visual arts education. This course is clustered for grades 9-12.

The following five bullets are the Big Ideas identified in arts education:

• Critical Thinking and Reflection
• Skills, Techniques, and Processes
• Organizational Structure
• Historical and Global Connections
• Innovation, Technology, and the Future

Band is musical performance class for advanced-level players. The Allison Academy Band has been performing for many years in various settings including school performances, city performances and other settings. Students are directed in learning and perfecting songs in a variety of styles, including, but not limited to classic rock, modern rock, pop and jazz. Students should be proficient enough on their instruments to be able to learn and perform the chosen material. A limited number of vocalists are also part of the ensemble. Students will also be exposed to different music in a music appreciation format. The course requires approval to enter (by audition) for the first year but may be taken multiple times.

This course is offered to current and aspiring singers in grades 6-12, regardless of their previous choral experience.  It is designed to enhance the musical, creative, and expressive qualities of all students. The curriculum explores basic vocal technique, developing song repertoire, music theory, and the history of different genres of music.  Students learn to perform as soloist, perform in small groups, and large groups.  In this class we also explore different dance styles along with performance techniques.   In addition, students are expected to work individually and in small groups on a self-guided curriculum to explore areas of particular interest.  Students are expected to participate in school performances throughout the year, planned and impromptu.

Class content should include, but not limited to, the following: 

• Voice classification: alto, soprano, tenor, bass
• Vocal technique:  breathing, warm-ups, harmonizing, etc. 
• Musical interpretation with the use of dynamics and phrasing
• Performance techniques: emoting, projection, eye contact, and movement
• Memorization of songs
• Song analysis 
• Research on different music topics
• Basics of reading music
• Extensive listening of music genres world-wide

Guitar classes are organized as an independent study with teacher guidance. Students will not play as an ensemble, but rather work to progress from their starting level at the beginning of the course. Students will be guided by the teacher, taught on a rotating one-on-one basis, and be provided with sheet music. Students must have an acoustic guitar available for the course (however there may exist the possibility for a loaner guitar). Students will learn to play both chords and melodies using the tablature method of reading guitar music. Students will be able to focus on music styles they are drawn to, however they will be encouraged to become familiar with playing other styles to include, but not be limited to: classical, classic-rock, pop, country, jazz, etc. Students will also explore various musical styles and instruments though music appreciation exercises and lessons. The course is available to both beginning and advanced students.

This course introduces students to effective strategies for beginning Spanish language learning, and to various aspects of Spanish speaking culture. This course encourages interpersonal communication through speaking and writing, providing opportunities to make and respond to basic requests and questions, to understand and use appropriate greetings and forms of address, to participate in brief guided conversations on familiar topics, and to write short passages with guidance. This course also emphasizes the development of reading and listening comprehension skills, such as reading isolated words and phrases in a situational context and comprehending brief written or oral directions. 

Students will grow in their ability to speak, write, read, and understand Spanish. Students will study vocabulary, grammar and culture while working on these skills. Grammar covered in this course includes: indirect and direct object pronouns, demonstrative adjectives, possessive adjectives, passive voice, as well as the preterit (or preterite), imperfect and future tenses.

In this expanding engagement with Spanish, students deepen their focus on four key skills in foreign language acquisition: listening comprehension, speaking, reading, and writing. In addition, students read significant works of literature in Spanish, and respond orally or in writing to these works. Continuing the pattern, and building on what students encountered in the first two years, each week consists of a new vocabulary theme and grammar concept, numerous interactive games reinforcing vocabulary and grammar, reading, and listening comprehension activities, speaking and writing activities, and multimedia cultural presentations covering major Spanish-speaking areas in Europe and the Americas.

1 Semester

This high school Health course helps students develop the knowledge and skills they need to make healthy decisions that allow them to stay active, safe, and informed. Students learn about the components of a healthy lifestyle and learn strategies for making healthy choices. Instructional material introduces students to the concepts of mental health, emotional health, social health, consumer health, and physical health. It presents opportunities for students to apply their value systems to decisions concerning their own health. Students develop communication skills in this one-semester course that allow them to demonstrate healthy choices with respect for self, family, and others. 

This course includes a broad series of lessons and activities that offer a variety of modalities for ultimate student engagement and content retention. Each unit contains a series of lessons that include introduction of content, virtual demonstration of that content, and repeated opportunity to practice that content.

1 Semester

The purpose of this course is to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and values they need to become healthy and physically active for a lifetime. This course addresses both the health and skill-related components of physical fitness which are critical for students’ success. The physically literate individual demonstrates competency in a variety of motor skills and movement patterns. The physically literate individual applies knowledge of concepts, principles, strategies, and tactics related to movement and performance. The physically literate individual demonstrates the knowledge and skills to achieve and maintain a health-enhancing level of physical activity and fitness. The physically literate individual exhibits responsible personal and social behavior that respects self and others. The physically literate individual recognizes the value of physical activity for health, enjoyment, challenge, self-expression and/or social interaction.

Introduction to Algebra will serve as a precursor to higher levels of mathematics. This course will cover topics that will prepare students for Algebra 1 and expounds upon proportional reasoning as students solve a variety of problems in Pre-Algebraic concepts.

These concepts include:

• Language of Algebra
• Integers
• Solving Multi-Step Equations and Inequalities
• Factors, Fractions and Exponents
• Rational Numbers and Equations
• Graphing Equations and Inequalities
• Ratio, Proportions and Probabilities
• Percents
• Linear Functions
• Applying Algebra to Geometry 
• Measuring Are and Volume

All the lessons, activities and assessments in this course are designed to ensure that every student is learning and understanding the mathematical concepts.

This course was designed to follow Florida’s B.E.S.T Standards in Mathematics.

Based on these standards, in Grade 8 Mathematics: Pre-Algebra, instructional time will emphasize six areas: 

1. Representing numbers in scientific notation and extending the set of numbers to the system of real numbers, which includes irrational numbers; 
2. Generate equivalent numeric and algebraic expressions including using the Laws of Exponents; 
3. Creating and reasoning about linear relationships including modeling an association in bivariate data with a linear equation; 
4. Solving linear equations, inequalities and systems of linear equations; 
5. Developing an understanding of the concept of a function and 
6. Analyzing two-dimensional figures, particularly triangles, using distance, angle and applying the Pythagorean Theorem.

 Recommendation by Teacher – 8th Graders will take for High School Credit

The fundamental purpose of this course is to formalize and extend the mathematics that students learned in the middle grades. The critical areas, called units, deepen, and extend understanding of linear and exponential relationships by contrasting them with each other and by applying linear models to data that exhibit a linear trend, and students engage in methods for analyzing, solving, and using quadratic functions. The Standards for Mathematical Practice apply throughout each course and, together with the content standards, prescribe that students experience mathematics as a coherent, useful, and logical subject that makes use of their ability to make sense of problem situations. The critical areas for this course, organized into two units, are as follows: 

Unit 1 – Relationships Between Quantities and Reasoning with Equations: By the end of eighth grade, students have learned to solve linear equations in one variable and have applied graphical and algebraic methods to analyze and solve systems of linear equations in two variables. Now, students analyze and explain the process of solving an equation. Students develop fluency writing, interpreting, and translating between various forms of linear equations and inequalities and using them to solve problems. They master the solution of linear equations and apply related solution techniques and the laws of exponents to the creation and solution of simple exponential equations. 

Unit 2 – Linear and Exponential Relationships: In earlier grades, students define, evaluate, and compare functions, and use them to model relationships between quantities. In this unit, students will learn function notation and develop the concepts of domain and range. They explore many examples of functions, including sequences; they interpret functions given graphically, numerically, symbolically, and verbally, translate between representations, and understand the limitations of various representations. Students build on and informally extend their understanding of integer exponents to consider exponential functions. They compare and contrast linear and exponential functions, distinguishing between additive and multiplicative change. Students explore systems of equations and inequalities, and they find and interpret their solutions. They interpret arithmetic sequences as linear functions and geometric sequences as exponential functions. 

Unit 3 – Descriptive Statistics: This unit builds upon students’ prior experiences with data, providing students with more formal means of assessing how a model fits data. Students use regression techniques to describe and approximate linear relationships between quantities. They use graphical representations and knowledge of the context to make judgments about the appropriateness of linear models. With linear models, they look at residuals to analyze the goodness of fit. 

This course is designed to prepare you for what to expect for geometry. You will learn about everything from linear equations to quadratic equations to the basics of geometry and probability & statistics. The fundamental purpose of this course is to formalize and extend the mathematics that students learned in the middle grades. The critical areas, called units, deepen, and extend understanding of linear and exponential relationships by contrasting them with each other and by applying linear models to data that exhibit a linear trend, and students engage in methods for analyzing, solving, and using quadratic functions. The Standards for Mathematical Practice applied throughout each course, and, together with the content standards, prescribe that students experience mathematics as a coherent, useful, and logical subject that makes use of their ability to make sense of problem situations.

Algebra II Honors provides advanced algebraic concepts through the study of functions, “families of functions,” equations, inequalities, systems of equations and inequalities, polynomials, rational and radical equations, complex numbers, and sequences and series.

Building on their work with linear, quadratic, and exponential functions, students extend their repertoire of functions to include polynomial, rational, and radical functions. Students work closely with the expressions that define the functions and continue to expand and hone their abilities to model situations and to solve equations, including solving quadratic equations over the set of complex numbers and solving exponential equations using the properties of logarithms. The Standards for Mathematical Practice apply throughout each course and, together with the content standards, prescribe that students experience mathematics as a coherent, useful, and logical subject that makes use of their ability to make sense of problem situations.

The critical areas for this course, organized into two units, are as follows: 

Unit 1- Polynomial, Rational, and Radical Relationships: This unit develops the structural similarities between the system of polynomials and the system of integers. Students draw on analogies between polynomial arithmetic and base-ten computation, focusing on properties of operations, particularly the distributive property. Students connect multiplication of polynomials with multiplication of multi-digit integers, and division of polynomials with long division of integers. Students identify zeros of polynomials, including complex zeros of quadratic polynomials, and make connections between zeros of polynomials and solutions of polynomial equations. The unit culminates with the fundamental theorem of algebra. A central theme of this unit is that the arithmetic of rational expressions is governed by the same rules as the arithmetic of rational numbers. 

Unit 2- Modeling with Functions: In this unit students synthesize and generalize what they have learned about a variety of function families. They extend their work with exponential functions to include solving exponential equations with logarithms. They explore the effects of transformations on graphs of diverse functions, including functions arising in an application, in order to abstract the general principle that transformations on a graph always have the same effect regardless of the type of the underlying function. They identify appropriate types of functions to model a situation, they adjust parameters to improve the model, and they compare models by analyzing appropriateness of fit and making judgments about the domain over which a model is a good fit. The description of modeling as – the process of choosing and using mathematics and statistics to analyze empirical situations, to understand them better, and to make decisions’ is at the heart of this unit. The narrative discussion and diagram of the modeling cycle should be considered when knowledge of functions, statistics, and geometry is applied in a modeling context.

The fundamental purpose of the course in Geometry is to formalize and extend students’ geometric experiences from the middle grades. Students explore more complex geometric situations and deepen their explanations of geometric relationships, moving towards formal mathematical arguments. Important differences exist between this Geometry course and the historical approach taken in Geometry classes. For example, transformations are emphasized early in this course. Close attention should be paid to the introductory content for the Geometry conceptual category found in the high school standards. The Standards for Mathematical Practice apply throughout each course and, together with the content standards, prescribe that students experience mathematics as a coherent, useful, and logical subject that makes use of their ability to make sense of problem situations.

The critical areas organized into three units are as follows: 

Unit 1- Congruence, Proof, and Constructions: In previous grades, students were asked to draw triangles based on given measurements. They also have prior experience with rigid motions: translations, reflections, and rotations and have used these to develop notions about what it means for two objects to be congruent. In this unit, students establish triangle congruence criteria, based on analyses of rigid motions and formal constructions. They use triangle congruence as a familiar foundation for the development of formal proof. Students prove theorems using a variety of formats and solve problems about triangles, quadrilaterals, and other polygons. They apply reasoning to complete geometric constructions and explain why they work. 

Unit 2- Similarity, Proof, and Trigonometry: Students apply their earlier experience with dilation and proportional reasoning to build a formal understanding of similarity. They identify criteria for similarity of triangles, use similarity to solve problems, and apply similarity in right triangles to understand right triangle trigonometry, with particular attention to special right triangles and the Pythagorean theorem. They can distinguish whether three given measures (angles or sides) define 0, 1, 2, or infinitely many triangles. 

Unit 3- Connecting Algebra and Geometry Through Coordinates: Building on their work with the Pythagorean theorem in 8th grade to find distances, students use a rectangular coordinate system to verify geometric relationships, including properties of special triangles and quadrilaterals and slopes of parallel and perpendicular lines, which relates back to work done in the first course. Students continue their study of quadratics by connecting the geometric and algebraic definitions of the parabola.

The fundamental purpose of the course in Informal Geometry is to extend students’ geometric experiences from the middle grades. Students explore more complex geometric situations and deepen their explanations of geometric relationships. Important differences exist between this Geometry course and the historical approach taken in Geometry classes. For example, transformations are emphasized early in this course. Close attention should be paid to the introductory content for the Geometry conceptual category found in the high school standards. The Standards for Mathematical Practice apply throughout each course and, together with the content standards, prescribe that students experience mathematics as a coherent, useful, and logical subject that makes use of their ability to make sense of problem situations.

This course is targeted for students who are not yet “college ready” in mathematics or simply need some additional instruction in content to prepare them for success in college level mathematics. This course incorporates the Florida Standards for Mathematical Practices as well as the following Florida Standards for Mathematical Content: Expressions and Equations, The Number System, Functions, Algebra, Geometry, Number and Quantity, Statistics and Probability, and the Florida Standards for High School Modeling. The standards align with the Mathematics Postsecondary Readiness Competencies deemed necessary for entry-level college courses. This course will prepare students for the SAT Math, ACT Math, and P.E.R.T. Math, in addition to learning how to apply, or navigate online college resources, i.e., applications, registration, etc.

In Precalculus Honors, instructional time will emphasize four areas: (1) extending right triangle trigonometry to unit circle trigonometry and trigonometric functions; (2) extending understanding of functions to trigonometric; (3) analyzing arithmetic and geometric sequences and series and (4) analysis and application of logarithmic equations and functions.

This course is designed to cover topics in Algebra ranging from polynomial, rational, and exponential functions to conic sections.  Trigonometry concepts such as Law of Sines and Cosines will be introduced.  Students will then begin analytic geometry and calculus concepts such as limits, derivatives, and integrals.  This class is important for any student planning to take a college algebra or a college pre-calculus class.

This course is a practical hands-on approach to the study of statistics and probability. The topics include the use of graphs such as histograms, stem plots, time plots, and scatter plots to display data, using numbers such as median, mean, and standard deviation to describe data, and evaluating data distribution. Students examine relationships using correlations and least square regressions. They calculate the probability of simple and compound events. They learn to estimate with confidence as well as to explore tests of significance, and to evaluate the validity of statistics contained within published reports.

The purpose of this course is to is to provide instruction that enables high school students to accelerate the development of reading skills, so they are able to successfully read grade level material independently. Instruction emphasizes reading comprehension and vocabulary study through a variety of texts. Scaffolding is provided as necessary as students engage with complex texts and is removed as the student ability grows over time.

Astronomy is the study of objects in space including the solar system and the universe in general. The course begins with an overview of the methods of science before moving on to the interactions of the Earth, Moon, and Sun, the science of space exploration and rocket technology, the solar system, and concludes with an exploration of stars, galaxies, and the universe. This course will utilize a textbook, field trips to the Frost Science Museum Planetarium and local observatory, and a variety of supplemental materials. This half credit elective is recommended for high school upperclassmen with an interest in Astronomy, science majors, or those in need of a science credit.

Biology is the study of life. This one-year course follows the evolution and progression of life on Earth from the time of Earths formation 4.5 billion years ago, to the abundance of biodiversity that exists on our planet today. The course begins with a review of the scientific method and the methods of biology. The course then examines the origins and history of life, chemical evolution, cell processes and functions (including photosynthesis and cellular respiration), genetics, evolution, human biology, and concludes with ecosystems and biomes (with an emphasis on South Florida flora and fauna). This course will utilize a textbook, hands-on labs, and a variety of supplemental materials. This is a required course for all high school students, as well a required class for all college freshmen.

Chemistry is the study of the structure and composition of matter that makes up living things and their nonliving environment. It is a one-year college preparatory course that explores the nature of chemical elements and how they interact. This course will begin with an overview of atoms including an introduction to matter, the chemical elements, and the periodic table, before moving on to atoms and bonding, chemical reactions, acids, bases and solutions, and carbon chemistry.  This course will utilize a textbook, hands-on labs, and a variety of supplemental materials. Chemistry is recommended for upperclassmen that intend on majoring in science or medicine.

Earth/Space Science is the study of the structure of Earth, its atmosphere, oceans, and position in the solar system and cosmos at large. This one-year course begins with an intro to Astronomy including the solar system, space exploration and the science of rockets, and the universe before moving on to the structure of Earth and geological processes. It then shifts to explore Earth’s Oceans and freshwater systems and concludes with the study of Earths weather and climate. This course will utilize several textbooks, hands-on labs, and a variety of supplemental materials. This course is required for all 9th grade students.

Environmental Science is the study of how human beings interact with and affect the natural environment.  This course is interdisciplinary and draws upon many fields of study that include Biology, Earth Science, Ecology, Economics, and Psychology to name a few.  This course begins by examining how human societies have historically affected natural systems, a review of ecology (with an emphasis on South Florida flora and fauna) including ecosystems and biomes, and biodiversity, before moving on to human population growth, resource use, and pollution. The course concludes by exploring the negative effects of materialism and over consumption and makes recommendations for a more sustainable future. This course will utilize a textbook, a novel that supports the concepts learned in class, field trips to Everglades National Park and John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, hands on labs, and a variety of supplemental materials. This course is recommended for high school upperclassmen with an interest in Environmental Science, science majors, or those in need of a science credit.

Marine Science is the study of life in Earths’ oceans and Estuarine environments. This elective begins with a review of some of the basic concepts learned in Biology with a focus on ecology. We then shift our attention to the unique marine environments that exist in South Florida, such as water flow from lake Okeechobee through the everglades into Florida bay, an exploration of coastal Mangrove swamp habitats, the Biscayne Bay Estuary, and our coral reef ecosystem; the third largest in the world. This elective will utilize a textbook, hands-on labs, a kayaking trip through the mangrove forests of Biscayne Bay, and a snorkeling trip to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.  This elective is recommended for those students curious about local natural history, science majors, or students in need of science credit.

A course in the scientific principles of the physical world. Topics include motion, mechanics, light, electricity, magnetism, and modern physics.  Students will solve physical problems and perform and report laboratory activities. 

1 Semester

This course will begin with an overview of the functions of governments and an overview of different types of government systems before moving on to a focus on the U.S. Government. Content areas will include but are not limited to:  Structure of the U.S. Constitution, Constitutional Rights, Federalism, Branches of Government, and Civil Liberties Issues.  The course will also highlight current events and current political issues, elections, etc. The course will utilize the online textbook as well as numerous handouts, and documentary film. This is a required course for graduation in Florida. It is a one-semester course.

The course will cover the following standards:

1. Demonstrate an understanding of the origins and purposes of government, law, and the American political system.
2. Evaluate the roles, rights, and responsibilities of United States citizens and determine methods of active participation in society, government, and the political system. 
3. Demonstrate an understanding of the principles, functions, and organization of government. 
4. Demonstrate an understanding of contemporary issues in world affairs and evaluate the role and impact of United States foreign policy.

1 Semester

This course will begin with basic concepts in economics and an overview of different economic systems before moving on to a focus on American-style free market capitalism. Content areas will include but are not limited to: Principles of Free Market Economics, Supply and Demand, Government Revenue and Spending, Labor, and Globalism. The course will also highlight current economic issues. The course will utilize the online textbook as well as numerous handouts, and documentary film. This is a required course for graduation in Florida. It is a one-semester course.

The course will cover the following standards:

1. Understand the fundamental concepts relevant to the development of a market   economy. 
2. Understand the fundamental concepts relevant to the institutions, structure, and functions of a national economy. 
3. Understand the fundamental concepts and interrelationships of the United States economy in the international marketplace. 

The primary focus of this course is to explore the interaction between the discipline of psychology and the criminal justice system.  Specifically, the aspects of human behavior directly related to the legal process such as eyewitness testimony, memories vs. false memories, testimony, jury decision making, implicit vs. explicit bias, and criminal behavior.  

We specifically cover these topics within the chapters found in the text and also with supplemental materials that include but are not limited to the DSM V TR, DSM V Case book, internet/ media resources, Psychological videos and film, and guest speakers. Students are graded according to performance on class work, homework, quizzes, and exams.  Approximately 3-5 grades are entered weekly.  

Specific topics within the chapters found in the text that we will discuss include:

• What is Forensic Psychology, Major Areas of F.P., The Relationship between Law and Psychology, Education and Training in F. P.
• Assessment, Treatment, and Consultation in Forensic Psychology
• Expert Testimony and the Role of the Expert
• Psychopathy: The Relationship between criminality and Violence, what we know about Psychopathy, and Legal and Ethical Issues
• Violence and Risk Assessment: Legal Realities of Violence, Risk and Protective Factors, and Accuracy of Risk Assessment
• Sexual Offenders:  Assessment of Sexual Offenders, Treatment and Management, and Sexual Offender Legislation
• Criminal and Civil Competence:  Issues of Competency in Criminal Proceedings, Restoration of Competency, and Civil Competencies
• Insanity, Criminal Responsibility, and Diminished Capacity: Rationale for Insanity Defense, Insanity Myths, Evaluation of Insanity, and Diminished Capacity
• Domestic Violence and Stalking:  Assessment of Domestic Violence among Intimate Partners, Risk Factors and Risk Assessments in Domestic Violence, and Gender Differences in the Perpetration of Domestic Violence.  
• Juvenile Delinquency and Juvenile Justice:  Juvenile Violence, Forensic Psychologist in Juvenile Courts, and Special issues in Juvenile Cases

Classroom discussions and open dialogue are key.  Establishing trust and routine allows the class to flow in the intended direction.  The discussion points are used to begin the conversations that the students can relate to on a personal level which will then lead to a mastery of the material and subsequently, personal growth is attained.

Global Perspectives is a unique interdisciplinary course that draws upon many fields of study such as Environmental Science, Geography, Anthropology, Political Science, and Economics. The goal of this half credit elective is to present global issues about people, places, and environments in ways that challenge traditional modes of thought to help create a more equitable future. This course will explore five major themes: Interdependence and Globalization, Identity and Cultural Diversity, Social justice and Human Rights, Peacebuilding and Conflict resolution, and Sustainable Futures. The class will utilize a textbook, documentary film, and the novel “Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies” by Jared Diamond. This elective is recommended for upperclassmen that are drawn to social science.

Law Studies course consists of the following content area strands: American History, World History, Geography, Humanities, Economics, and Civics and Government. The primary content for the course pertains to the study of the American legal system as the foundation of American society by examining those laws which have an impact on citizens’ lives and an introduction to fundamental civil and criminal justice procedures. Content should include, but is not limited to, the need for law, the basis for our legal system, civil and criminal law, adult and juvenile courts, family  and consumer law, causes and consequences of crime, individual rights and responsibilities, and career opportunities in the legal system.

The purpose of Personal Finance is to give students an overview of personal and family finance concepts.  These include the American economic system, personal and family management of resources including income, money management, savings and investing, spending and credit, the role of financial institutions and the consumer, taxation, and financial planning. 

We specifically cover these topics within the chapters found in the text and with supplemental materials that include but are not limited to relative financial literature and worksheets, internet/ media resources, video and film, and guest speakers.   Students are graded according to performance on class work, homework, quizzes, and exams.  Approximately 4-6 grades are entered weekly.  

Specific topics within the chapters found in the text that we will discuss include:

• General Personal Finance Intro
• Making Smart Decisions about Money
• Income and Taxes
• Financial Institutions and Services
• Interests Rates: Simple vs. Compound
• Savings
• Credit: Benefits and Pitfalls
• Insurance
• Living on your own and the costs associated with independence

Through the study of psychology, students acquire an understanding of and an appreciation for human behavior, biological and environmental impacts on behavior, mental illness and their roots, and the factors that interact with one another in the formation of individual personalities.  

We specifically cover these topics within the chapters found in the text and also with supplemental materials that include but are not limited to: the DSM V TR, DSM V Case book, internet/ media resources, Psychological videos and film, and guests speakers. Students are graded according to performance on class work, homework, quizzes, and exams. Approximately 3-5 grades and entered weekly.

Specific topics within the chapters found in the text that we will discuss include:

• Psychology: What it is, Function, History of Psychology, and Contemporary Perspectives.  
• Biology and Behavior of Psychology: The Nervous System, The Brain, The Endocrine System, and Heredity. 
• Sensation and Perception: Understanding the Psychological importance of the Senses and Perception
• Consciousness: The Study of Consciousness, Sleep and Dreams, Altered States of Consciousness, and the effects of Drugs on Consciousness
• Learning: Classical Conditioning, Operant Conditioning, Cognitive Factors in Learning, and The PQ4R Method
• Memory: Memory Classifications, the 3 stages of Memory, Forgetting and Memory improvement
• Intelligence: What is Intelligence, Measurement of Intelligence, Differences in Intelligence, and What influences Intelligence.
• Gender Roles: Roles and Differences, Gender Typing, and Variations in Gender Roles
• Psychological Disorders: Understanding These disorders, Anxiety and Mood Disorders, Dissociative and Somatoform Disorders, Schizophrenia, and Personality Disorder

Classroom discussions and open dialogue are key. Establishing trust and routine allows the class to flow in the intended direction.  The discussion points are used to begin the conversations that the students can relate to on a personal level which will then lead to a mastery of the material and subsequently, personal growth is attained.

This course will begin with an overview of colonization by the French, Spanish, and British in North America before it focuses on the 13 British colonies, causes of the American Revolution, and American Independence. The course will then look at the formation of U.S. government, Westward Migration, Industrialization, Causes of the Civil War, The Civil War, Reconstruction, Imperialism, as well as highlight events in the 20th century. The course will utilize the online textbook as well as numerous handouts, primary sources, and documentary film.

The course will cover the following standards:

1. Use research and inquiry skills to analyze American history using primary and secondary sources. 
2. Understand the causes, course, and consequences of the Civil War and Reconstruction and its effects on the American people. 
3. Analyze the transformation of the American economy and the changing social and political conditions in response to the Industrial Revolution. 
4. Demonstrate an understanding of the changing role of the United States in world affairs through the end of World War I.

This one-year course will examine both the physical and human aspects of geography by exploring the earth’s human physical system in both global and regional contexts.  The major focus will be on using geography to explore the earth’s past through historical events and its present and future through current events.  Students will utilize the geographic skills of acquiring, organizing, and analyzing information to both ask and answer geographic questions.  Four unique and diverse perspectives will be used as a frame reference: the spatial, the ecological, the historical and the economic.  Students will come to understand concepts, patterns and the interdependent relationship that shape our increasingly diverse world.

This course will begin with a look at Native American tribes in North, Central, and South America. Then it will move on to the following content areas: European Renaissance, Absolutist Monarchs of Europe, The French Revolution, The Enlightenment, Industrial Revolution, Imperialism, World War I, Great Depression, and World War II. The course will utilize the online textbook as well as numerous handouts, primary sources, and documentary film.

The course will cover the following standards:

1. Utilize historical inquiry skills and analytical processes.
2. Analyze the causes, events, and effects of the Renaissance, Reformation, Scientific Revolution, and Age of Exploration.
3. Analyze the causes, events, and effects of the Enlightenment and its impact on the American, French, and other Revolutions.
4. Understand the development of Western and non-Western nationalism, industrialization and imperialism, and the significant processes and consequences of each.
5. Recognize significant causes, events, figures, and consequences of the Great War period and the impact on worldwide balance of power.
6. Recognize significant events and people from the post-World War II and Cold War eras.

Animation is an introduction to traditional animation. Skills learned in Animation will prepare students for a possible future in the television/movie industry in the areas of animation, character and story development, special effects, and motion graphics. In addition, this course is designed for students that want to pursue careers in video gaming (character and level design), print advertising, scientific visualization, medical animation, interactive applications, and architectural rendering. Students will digitally create both 2D animations and 3D computer-generated animations. The basic principles of design and animation will be covered that have been used by professionals from the days of Bugs Bunny and Mickey Mouse up to the modern age of Pixar and DreamWorks. All students will have drawing assignments to help them in character design, layout, and story development. With the approval of the instructor, students may have the choice to complete major projects in either 2D (digitally hand drawn) or 3D (polygon models). Students should have basic computer skills and be able to manage files and folders. It is helpful to have skills in drawing and geometry prior to taking this course. Material and supply fees may be required.

This course will introduce students to the basics of computer programming using the Python programming language. Students are introduced to programming basics, data basics, branching, looping, lists, dictionaries, functions, objects, and simple graphics. This course is designed for the beginning programmer.

This course will allow students to develop professional skills in video, film, and television pre-production, production, and post-production. Fundamentals of video production, including the techniques and the aesthetics of shooting, lighting, and editing will be covered. Emphasizes hands-on production experience, using digital video. While in this course, students will be using class members as the production unit focusing on filmmaking, including story development, production/post techniques, directing, and interpretation of drama from script to screen. This class will introduce students to video camera operation, camera stabilization techniques, lighting, scripts and storyboarding, digital imaging, motion graphics software, and importing/exporting graphics, movies, animations, and sound effects into, or out of video editing software. The focus of the class is dedicated to non-linear video editing (Computer Based Editing). Students will develop an understanding of the wide range of business aspects within the industry. Students will also create a digital portfolio to display all their work.

The purpose of this course is to assist Information Technology students in making informed decisions regarding their future academic and occupational goals and to provide information regarding careers in the career cluster. The content includes but is not limited to foundational knowledge and skills related to computer coding and software development. Instruction and learning activities are provided in a laboratory setting using hands-on experiences with the equipment, materials, and technology appropriate to the course content and in accordance with current practices.

The purpose of this program is to provide students with a foundation of knowledge and technically oriented experiences in the study of the principles and applications of robotics engineering and its effect upon our lives and the choosing of an occupation. The content and activities will also include the study of entrepreneurship, safety, and leadership skills. This program focuses on transferable skills and stresses understanding and demonstration of the science and mathematics knowledge, technological tools, machines, instruments, materials, processes, and systems related to robotics.

The purpose of this course is to assist Information Technology students in making informed decisions regarding their future academic and occupational goals and to provide information regarding careers in the career cluster. The content includes but is not limited to foundational knowledge and skills related to computer coding and software development. Instruction and learning activities are provided in a laboratory setting using hands-on experiences with the equipment, materials, and technology appropriate to the course content and in accordance with current practices.

The purpose of this program is to provide students with a foundation of knowledge and technically oriented experiences in the study of the principles and applications of robotics engineering and its effect upon our lives and the choosing of an occupation. The content and activities will also include the study of entrepreneurship, safety, and leadership skills. This program focuses on transferable skills and stresses understanding and demonstration of the science and mathematics knowledge, technological tools, machines, instruments, materials, processes, and systems related to robotics.

Video Game Design provides students with the opportunity to design, program, and create fully functional video games. The course will introduce basic programming and design skills that are essential to developing a video game. Topics covered are math, physics, level design, and computer programming.

This course is a project-based course designed to give students an introduction to the design, creation, and maintenance of web pages and web sites. Student will learn how to critically evaluate website quality, they will learn about web standards, and they will learn how to create and maintain quality web pages.