COUNSELING AND GENERAL INFORMATION

Transcription

1 TABLE OF CONTENTS Page COUNSELING AND GENERAL INFORMATION Schedule Planning Recommendation Policy Schedule Changes Course Withdrawal Policy Course Retake Policy Scheduling for Transfer Students Scheduling for Foreign Exchange Students The Block Schedule Electives Six-Day Cycle Enhancement Minimum Cycle Instructional Schedule Credits Awarding Credit Grade Level Promotion Requirement Leveling Class Rank Eligibility Policy Course Work Outside of School Tutoring for Remediation and Original Credit Honor Roll National Honor Society Academic Excellence National Art Honor Society National Business Honor Society World Language Honor Societies National Music Honor Society Journalism Honor Society College Application Process Naviance College Counseling Software Testing Program Graduation Requirements Annual Credit Requirements Courses that Satisfy Technology Requirements Keystone Exam Requirements ART Exploratory Art Printmaking Color & 2-D Design Digital Media & Graphic Design Intro to Drawing & Painting Advanced Drawing & Painting Sculpture & 3-D Design Art Seminar - Portfolio A - Drawing Art Seminar - Portfolio B - Photo/Film/Pottery AP Studio Art - Drawing/Design Fine Art Photography Fine Art Film and Animation Contemporary Crafts Pottery I Pottery II

2 BUSINESS TECHNOLOGY Accounting I Accounting II Accounting III Business Finance Business Law Coding for Webpage Development Computer Science Explorations and Discoveries Computer Science Innovation and Impact Entrepreneurship Integrated Technology I Integrated Technology II Marketing Personal Finance ENGLISH English 9 Language and Literature English 10 Literature and Writing English 11 American Experience English 12 Critical Lenses ENGLISH ELECTIVES Acting: Introduction to Theater Advanced Acting: The Philosophy of Acting Acting Studio: Theatre Process and Improvisation Acting Advanced Studio: Performance and Management of Theater. 36 Journalism Composition Creative Writing Introduction to Nonfiction Award Winning Books and Authors...NonFiction II Introduction to the Novel Award Winning Books and Authors...Novel II Public Speaking SAT Prep Advanced Literacy Workshop Literacy Workshop FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCES Child Development PreSchool Laboratory Experience I PreSchool Laboratory Experience II Elementary Field Experience I Elementary Field Experience II Food & Nutrition I Food & Nutrition II Baking & Pastry Fundamentals Food For Life The Lighter Touch Life Management: The Confident Consumer Housing and Interior Design LIBRARY Garnet Valley Student Technology Team I Foundations of Technology Support 44 2

3 MATHEMATICS Personal Finance Pre-Algebra Algebra I-A Algebra I-B Algebra I-GS Geometry Practical Geometry Algebra II Algebra II/Trigonometry Algebra III/Trigonometry Finite Math Pre-Calculus For AP Preparation Pre-Calculus Calculus AP Calculus AB Calculus BC Calculus Multi-Variable Calculus with Advanced Topics in Mathematics.. 50 Probability, Statistics and Trigonometry AP Statistics AP Computer Science A Introduction to Computer Programming SAT Preparation Keystone Mathematics Workshop Robotics MUSIC Concert Band Jaguar Jazz Band Ban Chor I Ban Chor II Concert Choir Symphonic Choir Chamber Choir Orchestra Guitar I Guitar II Guitar Ensemble Keyboard I Keyboard II Music Theory Music Theory II AP Music Theory Introduction to Musical Theater Advanced Musical Theater Symphonic Band Audio Engineering I PHYSICAL EDUCATION Physical Education 9/ Physical Education 11/ Advanced Personal Fitness Individualized/Adapted Physical Education Highway Safety Drivers Education Strength and Conditioning

4 Sports Around The World Dance and Lifetime Fitness HEALTH Wellness Issues Emergency Care Sports Medicine Advanced Health & Wellness Adapted Wellness SCIENCE Earth and Space Science I Biology I Anatomy and Physiology AP Biology Chemistry I Chemistry In Our World AP Chemistry Physics I Introduction to Engineering AP Physics C Mechanics and E & M Lab Physical Science AP Environmental Science Environmental Science Evolutionary Biology and the Environment Keystone Biology Workshop Introduction to Organic Chemistry Introduction to Astronomy SOCIAL SCIENCE Non Western Cultures th Grade Challenge ATP (Social Studies) Modern European History United States History Political Science Advanced Placement Program AP European History AP United States History AP United States Government & Politics AP Macroeconomics AP Microeconomics AP Psychology International Relations Current Issues Invitation to Psychology Sociology and Sport: The Evolution of U.S. Society via Sports.. 72 The Student Leadership Challenge SPECIAL EDUCATION Academic Methods Resource Room Intensive Multi-Sensory Mathematics Instruction Intensive Multi-Sensory Reading Instruction TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION Graphic Communication I Graphic Communication II Graphic Communication III

5 Computer Graphics & Video Communications Broadcast TV Communication Computer Drafting I Computer Drafting II Computer Drafting III Introduction to Engineering Design Principles of Engineering Industrial Materials I Industrial Materials II Industrial Materials III Robotics WORLD LANGUAGE World Language I World Language II World Language III World Language IV World Language V AP World Language SPECIAL PROGRAMS Academically Talented Program (ATP) th Grade Challenge (ATP) (Social Studies) th Grade Challenge (ATP) (English) Additional Programing Options COMMUNITY SERVICE & WORK RELEASE Community Service Work Release DELAWARE COUNTY TECHNICAL HIGH SCHOOL Student Program Requirements Building Trades Custer Human Services Cluster Technology Cluster Power Transportation Cluster Additional Points DCTS Career Assessment Advanced Certifications DCIU Career Program with College Credit

6 COUNSELING AND GENERAL INFORMATION COUNSELING DEPARTMENT In an effort to meet the needs of all Garnet Valley students, the high school has a complete staff of certified counselors who stand by ready to assist students in dealing with a wide range of issues, including academics, personal issues, college admissions, and career exploration. Students are assigned to counselors alphabetically across grade levels. School Counselor Mr. Michael Salladino Mrs. Marisa Mahon Mr. Timothy Dunleavy Mr. Aaron Miller Ms. Marissa Kimmel Ms. Nicole Cahill Students Last Name Begins With. College and Career Counselor A-C D-Hoa and Delaware County Technical School Hob-McK McL-Scg Sch-Z SCHEDULE PLANNING Adequate schedule planning for students, teachers, and classroom space can be completed only when school officials consider student course requests to be final and binding. Students should consult with your parents, teachers and counselor before making your selections. Counselors will be meeting with students to discuss course planning for the following year. Students should have already reviewed the course selection guide and be prepared to select courses. After the initial selection of electives, students will have the opportunity to review their course selection for the next school year and verify the accuracy of their selections. When selecting classes, please consider your progress towards Garnet Valley graduation requirements. RECOMMENDATION POLICY Your child will be assisted in the course selection process by the recommendations of individual teachers, counselors, and administrators. Each major subject area teacher will make a formal recommendation for the appropriate course for the next school year. Parents and students are encouraged to follow the course recommendation submitted by the current teacher. Students and parents are strongly encouraged to review the course requirements and prerequisites listed. If a student/parent disagrees with the recommendation made by the current teacher, the student must fill out a waiver form and return it to the counseling department. SCHEDULE CHANGES Students may not make changes to their elective courses after the first three days of each semester. Students may not drop a core course unless initiated by a teacher, counselor, or administrator. COURSE WITHDRAWAL POLICY When a core course (English, Math, Science, Social Studies, World Language) withdrawal occurs, a course withdrawal form must be COMPLETED NO LATER THAN THE 15 th CALENDAR DAY OF THE SEMESTER. When any course withdrawal occurs within the first 15 days of the semester, it will not appear on the permanent record. If extenuating circumstances exist and a student withdrawals from a course at a subsequent time, a WP (Withdrawal Pass) or WF (Withdrawal Fail) will be noted on the transcript. 6

7 COURSE RETAKE POLICY The following conditions apply when retaking a course: The original grade will remain on the transcript and the GPA will be determined by using the quality points from the higher of the two grades. Duplicate credit will not be issued. Courses taken at a different level are not considered course retakes. Students wishing to retake a course must complete a Course Retake Form which is available on the counseling website. SCHEDULING FOR TRANSFER STUDENTS 1. When a student transfers to Garnet Valley High School, it is highly recommended that a transfer student bring a report card and/or transcript to the initial scheduling meeting in order to properly place student. The School Counselor will assess the student transcript and credit him/her accordingly. Credits will only be granted for classes in which credits were earned at student s previous school 2. The School Counselor will place the student with the help of teachers, parents, the student, and/or administration based upon the student capabilities and academic goals. 3. When students transfer from schools with traditional scheduling, every effort will be made to preserve as many credits as possible, allow the student to maintain class standing, and to provide a schedule which is as appropriate as possible, with minimum course overlap. 4. Transfer students will have the option to be unranked at Garnet Valley. SCHEDULING FOR FOREIGN EXCHANGE STUDENTS 1. Foreign exchange students from accredited programs are welcomed at Garnet Valley High School with the approval of the high school administration. 2. If they are interested in graduating from Garnet Valley High School, they must complete at least their senior year in Garnet Valley High School and meet all Garnet Valley High School graduation requirements. If they do, they will receive all of the rights and privileges of other Garnet Valley High School graduates, including participating in graduation and receiving a diploma or a certificate. The student's placement and credit-evaluation will be the same as for transfer students (see transfer students). 3. Foreign exchange students in good academic and behavioral standing may participate in all activities available to other students, including athletics and clubs. THE BLOCK SCHEDULE The block scheduling model that we use is known as the 4 x 4 semester plan. The school day is divided into four instructional blocks of 80 minutes each. The school year is divided into two semesters. During each semester, students will be scheduled for a class during each block. Generally, full-credit courses meet every day for the semester. Half-credit courses meet every other day for the semester. Instruction, which previously had been stretched over the course of an entire school year, is now scheduled into one semester. At mid-year, students begin a second semester of new courses. 1.5 credit Advanced Placement and Honors courses will meet every day for one semester and every other day for the second semester. (Please consult the appropriate section of guide for information on these courses). ELECTIVES In addition to subjects that are required, a variety of elective courses are offered. Students may select electives based on their own preferences and plans. Electives should be chosen because they prepare students for particular careers, because they are required for entrance into certain colleges, because they will test students' interests in a certain career area, or simply because students would enjoy taking a particular course for selfdevelopment or curiosity. In cases where a limited number of course sections are available, students will be assigned randomly. SIX-DAY CYCLE Garnet Valley High School operates on a six-day cycle schedule. For the purpose of scheduling we use the letters A-B-C-D-E-F to designate each day of the cycle. This scheduling method has several advantages. It permits more efficient use of the special classroom facilities and guarantees the continuity of days despite the holiday calendar. Under the six-day cycle schedule, holidays, unexpected school closing, and other changes to the school schedule will not affect the program since the next regular letter day follows automatically. The day of the cycle is announced daily during the morning announcements and on GVTV. 7

8 ENHANCEMENT The enhancement period is an integral part of the block schedule at Garnet Valley High School. Each student is responsible for selecting a teacher or an activity for each of the six days of the upcoming enhancement cycle. Students are required to sign up for enhancement on a weekly basis. Because the enhancement scheduling program is internet based, students are able to sign up for enhancement on a home or school computer. Students are encouraged to make optimum use of the enhancement time by scheduling themselves with their current teachers or with those activities in which they are involved. MINIMUM CYCLE INSTRUCTIONAL SCHEDULE Eight (8) credits must be scheduled per academic year. CREDITS A student may not earn more than 8 credits in any school year. If the student chooses to earn additional credits beyond the school year, those credits will not be included in class rank or in the cumulative grade point average. AWARDING CREDIT Credit is awarded upon satisfactory completion of all course requirements. Courses completed at the middle school will not be used in class rank or GPA calculations. GRADE LEVEL PROMOTION REQUIREMENTS A total of 27.5 credits are required to graduate. A student must meet the following credit requirements in order to advance to the next grade level. PROMOTION FROM MINIMUM CREDIT REQUIREMENT 9 th to 10 th Grade 5.5 Credits 10 th to 11 th Grade 11.5 Credits 11 th to 12 th Grade 19.5 Credits Students who successfully eliminate their credit deficiency either during the summer or the subsequent school year, may be reconsidered to join their original class. The above-mentioned credit requirements also apply for students participating in social events and grade level activities. LEVELING Courses are offered at varied levels to help meet the needs of all students. Classes are leveled at advanced placement, honors, academic, general studies and elective. Leveling takes into account the degree of difficulty, the complexity of skills, the materials, and the requirements of the course. See class descriptions to determine each class level. The term "leveling" does not apply to the student but to that level of instruction being offered to the student. ADVANCED PLACEMENT courses provide students the opportunity to challenge themselves at the highest level. These courses follow a carefully constructed syllabus that is provided by The College Board. Students who complete this course work are expected to take a national exam or complete national portfolio requirements. A high score on the exam may qualify the student for college level credit. HONORS courses provide a high level of difficulty. The academic expectations require outside research, nightly assignments, and the ability to develop and discuss material with depth and understanding. Only students prepared for the most rigorous academic pursuits are recommended for Honors courses. ACADEMIC courses are college-preparatory courses designed for a student who plans to continue his/her formal education beyond high school. Outside research, homework assignments, and independent projects are frequent requirements in Academic courses. GENERAL STUDIES courses provide fundamental and comprehensive curricular offerings. A General Studies course is not as academically demanding, but the expectation is for students to perform commensurate with their abilities. General Studies courses should not be substituted for more demanding courses by students planning to continue their formal academic education. These courses may not be selected by the student. 8

9 CLASS RANK When calculating class rank: 1. Rank in class is determined by using total quality points. 2. Quality points from eight credits earned at GVHS within a school year will be included. 3. Rank is determined at the end of each school year. *Courses completed outside of GVHS will not be factored into class rank and GPA. CLASS OF Weighted quality points are determined from one class in each of the following areas: English, mathematics, science and social studies. However, as we transition to the new GPA system, all additional Advanced Placement courses will be weighted. CLASS OF 2019 AND BEYOND - Weighted quality points are calculated utilizing all courses taken each academic year. All courses receive weighted QP based on the chart below. QUALITY POINTS CALCULATIONS CHART Final Avg Letter Grade Quality Points Scale for AP Honors Academic Electives Unweighted GPA A A A B B B C C C D D D F X; U ELIGIBILITY POLICY This policy applies to students participating in any activity, which requires use of out-of-school time. Included are members of all athletic teams and music activities. The policy is in place to: 1. Ensure that the focus of school is academic. 2. Prevent academic failure. 3. Encourage students to achieve potential, both scholastically and through involvement with activities. 4. Ensure parents that time spent on activities will not be to the detriment of academic performance. 5. Have Garnet Valley represented by students who are responsible in meeting their obligations. Eligibility is determined on a weekly basis. Any student failing more than one (1) full credit with a grade of F (51% to 64%) will be declared ineligible. In addition, any student failing one (1) full credit with a grade of X (0% to 50%) will be declared ineligible. The period of ineligibility is for a minimum of one (1) week and will be lifted only upon evidence that the student is no longer failing one (1) or more credits as described above. COURSE WORK OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL Courses may be taken outside of Garnet Valley High School for the purpose of remediating a failing grade, for the purpose of completing a prerequisite course, satisfying a Garnet Valley graduation requirement via dual enrollment, or for the purpose of participating in enrichment courses. Students must meet with their school counselor to discuss appropriate course work before the class begins. Costs for these courses are at the expense of the students/parents. 9

10 COURSES TAKEN FOR REMEDIATION: Remediation for students who achieve a grade of F (50-64) could include a remediation course through summer school*, tutoring* and online courses approved by the guidance department and/or high school administration. The highest grade given to a student taking this option would be a passing grade of 65. Students will not be required to take the Garnet Valley final exam in the case of online courses and summer school courses. Students will be required to take the Garnet Valley final exam if the tutoring option was used. Specific information for tutoring is noted in the course selection guide. The remediated course would become a 65 on the student transcript. The 65 would count in the formulation of the GPA and credits earned. An asterisk will be placed next to the course with an explanation that remediation was completed. This explanation will be placed on either the transcript or the school profile. NOTE: Remediation for students who achieve a grade of X (0-49) would need to be completed through original credit taken at GVHS. PREREQUISITE COURSES: Students requesting to complete a course outside of Garnet Valley that is a prerequisite for the next level course may do so through summer school*, tutoring* and online courses approved by the guidance department and/or high school administration. The following criteria must be met: The student must have earned an A in the prior course in the sequence OR have permission from the department. The student should meet with his/her guidance counselor to make a request to take the course, review the criteria, and complete the necessary paperwork for final approval. The student will be responsible for registering and paying for the course. The student must successfully complete the course. The student will be required to take the Garnet Valley final exam for the course prior to the start of school. The student must achieve an 83% on the Garnet Valley exam for the course before being scheduled for the next course. The student will not receive credit toward graduation requirements or quality points for the course. 10

11 *TUTORING FOR REMEDIATION AND ORIGINAL CREDIT Before any student begins tutoring for remediation, or for original credit, a conference with the school counselor must be held. A tutoring contract must be signed by both the counselor and the parent(s). 1. Tutoring for remediation involves a minimum of thirty (30) hours of direct instruction per credit. Tutoring for original credit involves a minimum of sixty (60) hours of direct instruction per credit. The direct instruction may not include the time utilized by the tutor and or the student for reading the text or related materials, researching a topic or paper, paper development and writing, studying, outlining materials, quiz or test taking. 2. The duration of the tutoring must be at least one day for every hour of tutoring. Tutoring for an original credit course must last 60 days, tutoring for a remediation course must last 30 days. A student may be tutored for only one course at a time. 3. Tutoring for remediation may not commence until after the original semester has been completed. If the failed course was in the spring, remediation may not begin until after commencement for seniors and after the last student day for all other students. 4. The tutor must be state certified in the subject area. The tutor must also be approved by the guidance department and high school principal prior to the first tutoring session. All costs incurred for tutoring are at parental expense. 5. The tutor must follow the approved Course of Study for the given course. A course syllabus will be available, outlining the topics to be covered. Any and all course requirements must be assigned and successfully completed by the student. 6. A log of dates and times on which tutoring was conducted must be kept. 7. The tutor, along with the student, must put together a portfolio of all work. Included in this portfolio would be an outline of the course content - all material and topics covered, copies of all completed assignments, copies of all graded quizzes and tests, and the grade received. 8. Garnet Valley School District books may be borrowed for summertime tutoring. Please be advised that the student is responsible for the return of these materials. If they are not returned, an obligation will be incurred by the student to pay for the lost book(s). 9. Before a student's grade will be changed, the borrowed materials (books, etc.) must be returned to the school and the tutor's portfolio of materials must be submitted, along with the log and other related materials outlined above to the guidance office so that they may be reviewed and evaluated. DUAL ENROLLMENT In some cases, students may find it beneficial to take college or other post-secondary courses before graduation from Garnet Valley. In order for students to take advantage of this opportunity, they must work with a school counselor to develop an individualized program to meet their needs. Garnet Valley School District encourages its students to take courses at colleges and schools during the school year and/or summer. There are many local colleges nearby that can serve to supplement the Garnet Valley High School education. Students simultaneously earn high school and college credits. These courses do not count towards GPA or class rank. INDEPENDENT STUDY The purpose of the Independent Study program is to provide an opportunity for a student who has interests outside the curriculum to earn additional high school credits. Independent study requests will not be approved for classes offered in the Course Selection Guide. The responsibility for obtaining approval of an Independent Study program rests with the student. No Independent study credit can be earned without the prior approval of the Principal. All Independent Study courses are graded on a Pass/Fail basis and are not figured into the calculation of the student s GPA or class rank. 11

12 HONOR ROLL Each marking period (9 weeks), students who earn an "83%" or better in all courses are placed on the "Honor Roll." Students who complete the year with an "83%" or better average in all courses are recognized for having achieved "Honor Roll" for the school year. A "Distinguished Honor Roll" is also published which lists students who have earned grades of "92%" or better in all classes. This list is only published at the conclusion of the academic year. Students earning Distinguished Honors will be invited to the Academic & Service Recognition Ceremony in the fall. NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY Selection into the National Honor Society is recognition of a student's outstanding academic and personal accomplishment. While exceptional scholarship is a major criterion for membership, NHS candidates must also exhibit character, leadership and service. Minimum requirements include: a 3.5 unweighted GPA, enrollment in at least one honors/ap level course, negligible discipline issues, at least two examples of leadership roles in school or community groups and at least 20 hours of community service accrued over the candidate s time in high school. Application packets for all eligible rising juniors and seniors will be issued over the summer and collected at the beginning of the following school year. After review be the NHS Faculty Advisory Board, selected candidates will be invited to participate in an induction ceremony in early October. To maintain membership, NHS members must complete a pre-approved 20 hour Individual Service Project, maintain a 3.5 unweighted GPA, and continue to serve as role models and student leaders. Failure to uphold the 4 Pillars of NHS (scholarship, leadership, character and service) may result in suspension or dismissal from the National Honors Society. ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE To receive Academic Excellence a student must achieve honor roll for four marking periods and receive no less than an 83 on a midterm or final. Students who achieve Academic Excellence will be recognized in the fall. NATIONAL ART HONOR SOCIETY Selection into the National Art Honor Society, GV Chapter 1698, is recognition of a student s outstanding artistic accomplishment and good character. A student must be in grades 10-12, with an 83% or higher in each marking period, mid-term, final exam, and final average in a fine arts class. A total of 1 credit in a semester is also part of the eligibility equation. A student must substantiate that, he/she has not flagrantly disobeyed school or civil rules or been suspended from school within the past year. Students are inducted in October and March. If inducted, it is expected that the student participate in service activities throughout the year, maintain at least an 83% in their art courses, attend monthly meetings and continue to elect 1 credit of fine arts yearly. Any infraction of school policy, civil laws or failure to follow by-laws may result in suspension or dismissal from the Art Honor Society. NATIONAL BUSINESS HONOR SOCIETY Selection into the National Business Honor Society is based on outstanding scholarship, character, leadership, and service. To qualify for active membership, a student must be in grades The student must have successfully completed or be currently enrolled in his/her third business credit. Any combination of half or full credit courses totaling three full credits will meet the requirement. The student must maintain a grade of 85% or higher in all Business Technology courses. The student must have a minimum standard GPA, on a 4.0 scale, as follows: business courses 3.5; overall average 3.0. If inducted, students are expected to participate in service activities throughout the year, maintain at least an 85% average in their Business Technology courses and attend scheduled meetings. Any infraction of school policy, civil laws or failure to follow by-laws may result in suspension or dismissal from the National Business Honor Society. 12

13 WORLD LANGUAGE HONOR SOCIETIES To become a member of French Honor Society, German Honor Society, or Spanish Honor Society students must maintain at least a 93% average in three consecutive semesters of French, German or Spanish at the high school level. The coursework must take place during the academic year at the high school. Independent study, online courses, summer courses, etc. do not count towards the three semesters for eligibility. To retain their membership in the honor societies students must study at least one semester per year with an average of 93% or better. To receive honor cords for graduation students must study French V or AP French, German V or Spanish V or AP Spanish with a 93% average or better their senior year. NATIONAL MUSIC HONOR SOCIETY Students need a B+ average and take band and chorus for 3 years and exhibit leadership plus talent. Audition is required. Students must participate in a 2 year service project. JOURNALISM HONOR SOCIETY Students must earn a 3.0 GPA, have taken a Journalism and/or writing elective and be an active participant in Newspaper, Literary Magazine, and/or Yearbook. COLLEGE APPLICATION PROCESS The high school guidance office provides many services related to the college admission process and postsecondary planning. The counseling department encourages each student to access the expertise of his/her school counselor to ensure the college application process is a smooth one. The following procedures are in place and should be followed when students are ready to apply to the colleges of his/her choice. 1. Students are strongly encouraged to complete their college applications online. Applications can be downloaded directly from the college's website or from the Common Application website. Students are responsible for completing and submitting their application, essay, application fee, and standardized test scores. The counseling department is responsible for submitting a transcript, letters of recommendations, mid-year reports, and a final transcript. Students must carefully check the deadlines for each college and provide at least ten school days for the counseling office to submit the high school documents. 2. After students complete their college application, students must notify the counseling office and request the high school documents to be sent to the colleges. Official transcripts will only be submitted directly from the counseling office and will be sent only after a student completes a Request For Official Transcript form (pink sheet). Students must also request a transcript and letters of recommendation through their Naviance account. There is no charge to submit transcripts and letters of recommendation to colleges/universities that accept electronic submissions via Naviance. However, if a certain college requests the high school documents to be mailed, the fee for submitting these documents if $3. This fee covers the cost of mailing the transcript, letters of recommendation, a mid-year report, scholarship materials, and a final transcript at the end of the school year. Students can see what schools allow electronic submission of high school documents by entering the college on Naviance. 3. Students should check their applications carefully to see if a school counselor recommendation is required. If so, students should approach their counselor and request a letter of recommendation from them directly. Students should not assume that their counselor will automatically write a letter of recommendation for them. When requesting a letter of recommendation from a teacher, students should request a letter of recommendation in person and then again on Naviance. Students should give teachers at least three weeks notice before the application deadline. Teachers will upload letters of recommendation on the student's Naviance account. All letters of recommendations are confidential and will not be viewable by a student or parent. 13

14 NAVIANCE COLLEGE COUNSELING SOFTWARE The high school guidance office utilizes the Naviance College Counseling Software program to assist students and parents with post-secondary planning. Naviance is a college and career readiness platform that helps connect academic achievement to post-secondary goals. Its comprehensive college and career planning solutions optimize student success, enhance school counselor productivity, and track results for school and district administrators. Naviance makes college research easy. Whether it's matching colleges to a student's career interests, or comparing admissions rates at a student's top college choices, our college planning tools allow students and families to make informed decisions about their options by comparing colleges and universities, exploring scholarship opportunities, tracking college applications, and accessing a variety of other college research materials. Naviance delivers a wealth of data that allows the guidance department to determine how many of their students are applying to specific colleges and universities, where they are accepted, rejected or waitlisted, and what it took for their students to meet their goals. Naviance helps the counseling office track and manage electronic documents, and submit letters of recommendation and supporting college application documents. Naviance helps school save time and money by eliminating paperwork. It allows the counseling department to submit electronic documents to more than 1,700 colleges and universities, including every Common Application member institution. TESTING PROGRAM AMERICAN COLLEGE TEST (ACT) The ACT is an achievement test that includes four academic areas: English, mathematics, social studies, and natural science, and an optional writing test. Some colleges require the American College Test for admission in lieu of the SAT. Students should check with the college of their choice to see which admission test is required. Both the SAT and the ACT exams are widely used by most colleges for admission purposes. Applications are available in the Counseling Office. PRELIMINARY SCHOLASTIC APTITUDE TEST AND NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARSHIP QUALIFYING TEST (PSAT/NMSQT) The Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) is recommended for juniors who plan to continue their education at a two- or four-year college. This test is also given to sophomores as a practice exam. The PSAT/NMSQT results are useful in preliminary college planning. They are the best indicator in predicting performance on the SAT's as well as being useful in assessing academic strengths and weaknesses. For the juniors PSAT/NMSQT is the initial step for consideration of scholarships offered by the National Merit Corporation. SCHOLASTIC ASSESSMENT TEST/SAT I The SAT is a four-hour reasoning test designed to provide a standard measure of the verbal, mathematical and writing abilities of a candidate for college admission. It is recommended that juniors take the SAT's in January, March, May or June since they may have completed the first semester course work before the test. Applications are available on-line at Test Dates: October, November, December, January, March, May and June. ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) These are special achievement tests designed to help colleges judge the qualifications of students for advanced course placement and/or awarding of college credit. Each test is three hours in duration and is offered once a year in May. Students need not be enrolled in Advanced Placement courses in order to take the test(s). All students enrolled in Advanced Placement courses are expected to take the AP test in May. SUBJECT TESTS/SAT II These multiple-choice tests measure the student's knowledge of content in seventeen subject areas. Students can choose to be tested in one, two, or three specific subject areas during each testing session. The scores are used for admission and for placement in courses upon admission to college. Test Dates: October, November, December, January, March, May and June. GARNET VALLEY COLLEGE BOARD NUMBER (CEEB #391537) 14

15 GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS CLASS 2018 AND BEYOND Subject Credits English 4.0 Social Science 4.0 Science 4.0 Mathematics* 4.0 Electives*** 6.5 High School Physical Education 2.0 Technology** 1.5 Health 0.5 Career Development 0.5 TOTAL 27.5 Credits * Mathematics credits must include Algebra I or its equivalent. ** Technology credits must include.5 credits of Word Processing Essentials or.5 credit of Word Processing Intermediate. Students who have successfully completed all three-computer courses at the Middle School have fulfilled the Word Processing graduation requirement. Courses that meet the technology requirement are identified by each department in the Course Selection Guide and on page 12. *** At least one of these electives must be a full credit course from the following: art, music, family & consumer sciences, tech ed, foreign language, business technology or an additional English elective. Another of these 7.0 elective credits must be either a full credit or two.5 credit courses in Math, Science, English, or Social Studies or a full credit course or two.5 credit advanced electives. In elective areas an advanced elective is one that requires a prerequisite course in the same discipline. For example Chamber Choir, Course #950, requires a minimum of one year in mixed choir as a prerequisite. A student electing Chamber Choir for.5 credits would satisfy one half of this requirement. COURSES THAT MEET THESE ADVANCED ELECTIVE CRITERIA ARE: AP Studio Art: Drawing or Design Portfolio Chamber Choir Art Seminar (A) or (B) Advanced Musical Theater Pottery II Graphic Communication II - III Advanced Drawing & Painting Broadcast TV Computer Drafting II/III Word Processing Intermediate Industrial Materials II/III Accounting II World Language Level III IV V - AP Accounting III Advanced Health & Wellness Pre School Laboratory Experience II Advanced Acting Philosophy of Acting Elementary Field Experience I & II Acting Studio Integrated Technology II Advanced Acting Studio Theater AP Music Major Advanced Novel Seminar Advanced Non-Fiction Seminar CULMINATING PROJECT All students are required to complete a culminating project as part of their graduation requirements from the Garnet Valley High School. This project requires an out of school job shadowing experience and a multi-phased written portfolio. These 2 requirements, as well as the Career Development class in its entirety, will meet the Pennsylvania Department of Education requirement for a culminating project. Students not completing either project and/or the class with a grade of 65% or above must retake the class and redo the assignments to fulfill this graduation requirement. 15

16 ANNUAL CREDIT REQUIREMENTS EACH YEAR STUDENTS ARE EXPECTED TO CARRY A FULL ACADEMIC SCHEDULE. PROMOTION FROM YEAR TO YEAR IS BASED ON SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION OF THE FOLLOWING CLASSES. GRADE 9 GRADE 10 GRADE 11 English 9 Language and Literature World History Mathematics Science Physical Education High School 101 Electives TOTAL CREDITS 8.00 CREDITS English 10 Literature and Writing World Cultures Mathematics Science Physical Education Wellness Electives TOTAL CREDITS CREDITS English 11 American Experience U.S. History Mathematics Science Physical Education Career Development Electives TOTAL CREDITS CREDITS 1.00 credit 1.00 credit 1.00 credit 1.00 credit 0.50 credit 0.50 credit 3.00 credits 1.00 credit 1.00 credit 1.00 credit 1.00 credit 0.50 credit 0.50 credit 3.00 credits 1.00 credit 1.00 credit 1.00 credit 1.00 credit 0.50 credit 0.50 credit 3.00 credits GRADE 12 Fulfill remainder of graduation requirements see page 15. SPECIAL NOTE: All students must earn 2.00 credits in Physical Education,.5 credits in Wellness, 1.5 credits in Technology, and.5 credits in Career Education to meet graduation requirements. In the event that a student fails one or more courses required for promotion, the student s schedule for the next year will reflect a doubling of that academic area(s). The point at which a student s schedule cannot fit the additional courses needed for promotion at the next level, the student will be retained in his/her previous grade. If retained, he/she may not participate in class activities of the next year. COURSES THAT SATISFY TECHNOLOGY REQUIREMENTS Certain courses (listed below) may be taken to satisfy elective requirements (6 credits) or may be applied to the technology requirement (1.5 credits). Only those courses listed below may satisfy the technology requirements. A student must choose whether credits for the course will be applied toward elective requirements or technology requirements. The following courses may satisfy credit requirements for electives or technology: 16

17 COURSE TECH NUMBER COURSE CREDITS 035 Advanced Personal Fitness Color & 2-D Design Digital Media & Graphic Design Pottery II.5 053/057 Pottery I Art Seminar (Portfolio A) Art Seminar (Portfolio B Pottery) Sculpture & 3-D Design Fine Art Film and Animation AP Studio Art Drawing Fine Art Photography Art Seminar (Portfolio B Photography and Film) Printmaking AP Studio Art Drawing/Design High School Acting II Acting Journalism Creative Writing Algebra II/Trig (Honors) Calculus (Honors) Pre-Calculus (Honors) , 237 AP Calculus Intro Computer Programming AP Computer Programming AP Biology AP Chemistry AP Physics C Mechanics & E & M AP United States History AP Macroeconomics AP Microeconomics Marketing.5 622/632/640 Accounting III, II, I Web Page Design Business Administration Personal Finance /635 Integrated Technology I, II Business Law.5 734/735 Preschool Lab I, II 1 737/741 Elementary Field Experience I, II.5 830/831 Computer Graphics/Video 1 832/833 Computer Drafting I 1 836/837 Computer Drafting II & III 1 838/838/840 Graphic Communication I, II, III 1 841/842/843 Industrial Materials I, II, III.5 World Language III, IV, V, AP Broadcast TV Production Band Music Theory AP Music.5 17

18 KEYSTONE EXAM REQUIREMENTS FOR The Keystone exams are state mandated end-of-course assessments designed to evaluate proficiency in academic content. Scores from the Keystone exams will be used to determine if a school and district are making adequate yearly progress (AYP) and for the purpose of satisfying No Child Left Behind (NCLB) requirements. In addition, student performance on the exams will help school districts guide students toward meeting state standards which are aligned with expectations for success in college and the workplace. During the school year, students enrolled in Algebra I (or the equivalent), Biology, and Literature will be required to take the Keystone exam at the completion of each course. Any student who does not score Advanced or Proficient will have the opportunity to retest. Additional information about the Keystone exams can be found on the Garnet Valley School District Web Page under Parent Resources, State Standardized Testing. Note: Students in grades 9 and 10 who are not proficient on the Algebra I, Literature and/or Biology Keystone exam may be scheduled for a Keystone Workshop class in preparation for the retest. Juniors who have not demonstrated proficiency by the start of senior year in Algebra I, Literature and/or Biology will need to fulfill a portfolio requirement for graduation. 18

19 ART The Garnet Valley Visual Arts program provides a variety of learning activities, art college presentations and portfolio reviews, local museum and international field trips, career education, and computer technology. The student becomes familiar with concepts, methods and a wide range of media to be a successful producer and consumer of art. The Visual Arts program at Garnet Valley has something to offer everyone from beginner to advanced student. We provide information for our students to become aware of art-related careers and develop a portfolio of work needed to apply to art colleges. Career paths such as fine arts, graphic design, photography, animation, interior design, architecture, art education, etc. require a portfolio of the students best art works from high school as part of the college application process. Below is a composite list of all courses offered. ART PROGRAM Recommended Sequence of Art Courses for art majors Students building their art portfolio should elect a minimum of 1 credit of art per year. GRADE AVAILABLE TO COURSE 9 th Grade 9 Exploratory Art 10 th Grades Color & 2-D Design* Digital Media & Graphic Design* Intro to Drawing & Painting* Sculpture & 3-D Design* Fine Art Photography* 11 th Grades Intro to Drawing & Painting* Advanced Drawing & Painting (portfolio)* Sculpture & 3D Design* Fine Art Photography* 12 th Grades 12 Art Seminar - Portfolio A (portfolio prep)* Advanced Placement (AP) Studio Art - Drawing* Art Seminar B Photography Advanced Placement (AP) Studio Art 2D Design *Core courses for portfolio building Additional courses to enhance the recommended sequence - Grades 9-12 Grades Grades Printmaking Pottery I Contemporary Crafts Fine Art Film and Animation Pottery Il Art Seminar B Pottery 19

20 EXPLORATORY ART (FOR 9 TH GRADE ONLY) Course #050 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Grade 9 (Academic) *Materials Fee: $15.00 (includes required sketchbook) Exploratory Art is a foundation course presenting a variety of learning activities including: drawing, painting, pottery, sculpture, and design that will enable the student to become familiar with vocabulary, media, techniques, technology, history & art appreciation. Students will explore a variety of media in order to express ideas and concepts. Museum visits are made available to interested students. Students will be responsible for creative ideas, sketchbook assignments, studio, and out-of-class assignments, mid-term and final exam artworks. Exploratory Art is ideal for any student thinking about pursuing a career in the arts including but not limited to fine arts, architecture, media arts/graphic design and illustration. This course prepares students for higher level arts courses. EXPLORATORY ART (FOR 9 TH GRADE ONLY) Course #056 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grade 9 (Academic) *Materials Fee: $15.00 (includes required sketchbook) Exploratory Art is a foundation course presenting a variety of learning activities including: drawing, painting, sculpture, and design that will enable the student to become familiar with vocabulary, media, techniques, technology, history & art appreciation. Students will explore a variety of materials in order to express ideas and concepts. Museum visits are made available to interested students. Students will be responsible for creative ideas, sketchbook assignments, studio, and out-of-class assignments, mid-term exam, and final exam artwork. Exploratory Art is ideal for any student thinking about pursuing a career in the arts including but not limited to fine arts, architecture, media arts/graphic design and illustration. This course prepares students for higher level art courses. PRINTMAKING Course #069 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grade 9 12 (Academic) (.5 tech credit) *Materials Fee: $20.00 This course is an introduction to printmaking monoprinting, block printing, silk-screening and so much more. Students will explore a variety of printmaking techniques and materials, including mixed media. This course is a comprehensive and interactive look at art movements and printmaking throughout history, pre-historic to modern. This course will have a midterm exam and a final culminating project. Museum visits may be offered when appropriate. Printmaking is an ideal course for any student interested in a career in fine arts, art education and graphic arts. COLOR AND 2-D DESIGN Course #051 6 periods/cycle/sem. 1 credit Grades (Academic) (1 tech credit) *Materials Fee: $15.00 Color and 2-D Design is a specialized course providing students with the opportunity to establish a firm foundation in design. Investigation of line, tone, shape, form, space, proportion, color, composition, and aesthetics will prove helpful to further art study. Students will design functional and non-functional two-dimensional artworks in order to learn design concepts. Students will use the computer as an integral part of this curriculum learning the basics of Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator. Museum field trips are made available to interested students. Students are responsible for studio assignments, sketchbook assignments, out-of-class assignments, mid-term and final exam artwork. Color & 2-D Design is ideal for any student interested in careers in graphic design, illustration and photography. 20

21 DIGITAL MEDIA AND GRAPHIC DESIGN Course #063 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Grades (Academic) (1 tech credit) *Materials Fee: $20.00 Digital Media and Graphic Design will present students with real world design challenges, projects, and assignments typical of the profession of the graphic design industry. In this course, students will be introduced to graphic design programs, technology-based artmaking, digital marketing, advertising, and communications as well as essential fine art and design elements and principles. The students will develop computer and art skills in Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Photoshop. Museum visits may be offered when appropriate. Digital Media and Design is the ideal course for any student interested in a career in graphic arts, marketing, advertising, and illustration. INTRO TO DRAWING AND PAINTING Course #060 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Grades (Academic) The Drawing and Painting course provides the opportunity for students to learn how to draw and paint. Students will have the opportunity to practice, develop and perfect a variety of techniques and skills. A wide variety of drawing and painting media such as pencil, charcoal, chalk, pastel, colored pencil, oil crayon and acrylic paint will be used. Drawings will be developed from both observation and imagination. Art appreciation is also stressed. Museum visits are made available to interested students. Students will be responsible for creative ideas, studio and out-of-class assignments, sketchbook assignments, and mid-term and final exam artworks. Intro to Drawing and Painting is an excellent course for any student intending to pursue a career in any art-related field including illustration, graphic design, media arts and architecture. ADVANCED DRAWING AND PAINTING (Portfolio Prep) Course #066 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Grades (Academic) *Materials Fee: $20.00 Advanced Drawing and Painting provides the student with a more in-depth approach to drawing and painting techniques. Students will build on the basic skills already acquired in the Drawing & Painting I course. A major focus will be drawing from observation, discovery and exploration of both wet and dry media. Students will use computer technology (Photoshop software) to complete some of the course requirements. Museum visits are made available to interested students. Students will be responsible for creative ideas, studio and out of class assignments, sketchbook assignments, and mid-term and final exam artworks. Advanced Drawing and Painting is an excellent course for any student intending to pursue a career in illustration, concept art and drafting. Prerequisite: Intro into Drawing and Painting Recommendation: 83% SCULPTURE & 3-D DESIGN Course #059 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades (Academic) (.25 tech credit) *Materials Fee: $20.00 If you like working with your hands and using a variety of materials to create sculptural forms and 3-D designs, then this is the course for you. Create non-objective and representational sculptures using wire, metals, paper, clay, found objects, and more. Through studio work, visual aids and technology presentations you will learn sculpture methods, get to know sculptors, sculptures, and major 3-D design achievements - past and present. Students will be responsible for ideas, studio work, out-of-class assignments, independent research, sketchbook assignments, mid-term exam, and final exam artwork. Museum visits are offered when appropriate. Sculpture & 3-D Design is an ideal course for any student interested in a career in industrial design, architecture and sculpture. 21

22 ART SEMINAR PORTFOLIO A - Drawing Course #055 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Grade 12 (Honors) (.5 tech credit) *Materials Fee: $25.00 Art Seminar A is a course for the serious art student who wants to pursue art in a more in-depth, personal level or as a career choice. A portfolio of work will be developed for personal growth as well as possible college admission. This Art Seminar course will strengthen the visual art skills the students will already bring to the class. It will also help to develop the skills for discussing art through critique, lecture, research, museum visits, and possible artistin-residence series. Students will be required to keep a journal/sketchbook, complete class work, studio and outof-class assignments, and mid-term and final exam artworks. Students will also have the opportunity to exhibit their artwork both in and out of school. Prior to the beginning of this course, there are several portfolio assignments that will be completed in the summer, as well as required reading as part of our summer reading program. Art Seminar A is an excellent course for any student intending to pursue a career in fine arts, illustration, graphic arts, industrial arts and concept art. *TEACHER RECOMMENDATION/APPROVAL IS REQUIRED BEFORE REGISTERING FOR COURSE. Prerequisites: 1. Intro to Drawing and Painting Recommendation: All 3 courses, 2. Color and 2-D Design OR Digital Media & Graphic Design Final Grade 83% 3. Sculpture and 3-D Design ART SEMINAR PORTFOLIO B - Photo/Film/Pottery Course # 068-Photography & Film 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit (1 tech credit) Course # 058-Pottery 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit (.5 tech credit) Grade 12 (Honors) *Materials Fee: $30.00 This course is for the serious art student who wants to pursue art in a more in-depth personal level or as a career choice. A portfolio of work in a chosen area of study such as photography or pottery will be developed for personal growth as well as possible college admission. This Art Seminar class will strengthen the visual art skills the students will already bring to the class. It will also help to develop the skills to discuss art through critique, lecture, research, museum visits, and possible artist-in-residence series. Students will be required to keep a journal/sketchbook for their particular area of study, complete class work, studio and out-of-class assignments, and mid-term and final exam artworks. Students will also have the opportunity to exhibit their artwork both in and out of school. Art Seminar B is ideal for any student interested in photography or sculpture related careers or college majors including photography, photojournalism, commercial photography, industrial design or ceramics. *TEACHER RECOMMENDATION/APPROVAL IS REQUIRED BEFORE REGISTERING FOR COURSE. Prerequisites: 1. Color and 2-D Design OR Digital Media & Graphic Design Recommendation: Both courses 83% OR Intro to Drawing and Painting 2a. Photography or Film & Animation 2b. Pottery I and Pottery II ADVANCED PLACEMENT STUDIO ART- DRAWING/DESIGN Drawing Portfolio #062 6 periods/cycle /semester 1 credit Grade 12 (.5 tech credit) Design Portfolio #070 6 periods/cycle /semester 1 credit Grade 12 (.5 tech credit) *Materials Fee: $25.00 The Advanced Placement Studio Art course is designed to give students an opportunity to sample a taste of college level work. Successful completion of the portfolio requirements in lieu of an examination, set by the College Board, may result in college credit (3 to 6 credits) for the student. Creative thought, compelling content, a willingness to experiment, and strong innovation will be encouraged. A portfolio of works including diversity of 22

23 media and approaches will be developed. Students will complete a body of works that shows breadth of skill, quality of technique and skill, and a concentration of content or theme. There may be additional costs due to the nature of focus/study each student pursues for their portfolio of art works as well as museum field trip opportunities. AP Studio Art is for any student wishing to pursue an art related career or college major. *TEACHER RECOMMENDATION/APPROVAL IS REQUIRED BEFORE REGISTERING FOR COURSE. Prerequisite: Art Seminar A for Drawing Portfolio OR Design Portfolio Art Seminar B (Photo) for Design Portfolio only Recommendation: 83% Unlike the other AP Classes, there is no final exam. In lieu of the exam, the College Board requires a Portfolio of works from the class sent on the AP Studio Art exam day. There is an additional a fee of $ required by the College Board. This fee includes all portfolio packaging materials, postage to and from review site, and the cost to process the scores. FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHY Course # periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Grades (Academic) (1 tech credit) *Materials Fee: $30.00 Students will gain an understanding and appreciation of photography as a fine art. Emphasis will be placed on concepts and practicing skills related to composition and technique. Students will learn to operate and manipulate both digital and traditional 35mm SLR cameras. Students will be responsible for shooting film outside of class. Students will be responsible for multiple assignments involving developing and printing their own black and white photographs in the darkroom including contact sheets, test strips and final prints. Various photographic techniques will be presented and practiced. Students will also learn and utilize Adobe Photoshop for photo editing and montages. Students will demonstrate mastery of learned skills in the creation of themed prints. Museum visits are offered when appropriate. Evaluation will consist of critiques, self-evaluations, quizzes, a written mid-term and final exam artworks. Fine Art Photography is ideal for any student interested in careers in photography, commercial photography, photojournalism and graphic design. FINE ART FILM AND ANIMATION Course # periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Grades (Academic) (1 tech credit) *Materials Fee: $15.00 This course will lead students through filmmaking and stop-motion animation processes with an emphasis on contemporary filmmaking and concept development. Students will start with the history of film and animation, then move on to story and character development and storyboarding. Students will edit their film and create digital stories using various software. Students will also work with plasticine clay and mixed media to build characters and sets for animated films. Students will have the opportunity to submit their work to student film festivals. Museum visits are offered when appropriate. Fine Art Film and Animation is ideal for any student interested in careers in cinematography, scriptwriting, directing, acting, film editing, animation and game design. CONTEMPORARY CRAFTS Course #054 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades (Academic) *Materials fee: $25.00 Contemporary Crafts explores a variety of materials and media with an emphasis on upcycling and repurposing. Building on the theory that form follows function, students will create works of art that reflect current trends in utilitarian design. Students will research current and historical craft techniques. Hands-on activities may include fiber arts, book arts and jewelry-making. Museum visits may be offered when appropriate. Contemporary Crafts will have a midterm and final exam artwork. Contemporary Crafts is an ideal course for any student interested in a career in bookmaking, fiber arts, jewelry design and fashion design. 23

24 POTTERY I Course #057 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Grades (Academic) (.5 tech credit) *Materials Fee: $30.00 We will begin by mastering a variety of hand building methods along with exploring various surface treatments and traditional versus sculptural pottery. The potter s wheel and throwing requirements are woven throughout the course. Art history and art appreciation will be incorporated throughout each learning activity. Finally, we will focus on glazing techniques and firing methods. Demonstrations will be held on a regular basis, followed by individual assistance, instructional visuals (power point/internet) and clay handouts/magazines. Evaluation is based on class performance, idea book assignments, assessment of learned techniques and individual skill development, mid-term and final exams. Museum visits are offered when appropriate. Traditional electric kiln firings and sawdust firings will be explored along with an introduction to raku firing. Pottery I is an ideal course for any student interested in a career in industrial design, architecture, stage/set design, character design, sculpture and ceramic artist. POTTERY I Course #053 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades (Academic) (.5 tech credit) *Materials Fee: $25.00 We will begin by mastering a variety of hand building methods along with exploring various surface treatments and traditional verses sculptural pottery. An introduction to the potter s wheel is demonstrated. Art history and art appreciation will be incorporated throughout each learning activity. Finally, we will focus on glazing techniques and firing methods. Demonstrations will be held on a regular basis, followed by individual assistance, instructional visuals (power point/internet) and clay handouts/magazines. Evaluation is based on class performance, idea book assignments, assessment of learned techniques and individual skill development, midterm and final exams. Museum visits are offered when appropriate. Traditional electric kiln firings and sawdust firings will be explored. Pottery I is an ideal course for any student interested in a career in industrial design, architecture, stage/set design, character design, sculpture and ceramic artist. POTTERY II Course #052 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Grades (Academic) (.5 tech credit) *Materials Fee: $30.00 Advanced exploration of the clay medium, building on the skills achieved and acquired in Pottery I. Students will continue to develop wheel throwing skills and creatively problem solve for design and function with their artworks. Art history and appreciation will be incorporated throughout each learning activity. Emphasis will focus on craftsmanship, originality, design, problem solving, glazing techniques and series work. Demonstrations will be held on a regular basis, followed by individual assistance, instructional visuals (power point/internet) and pottery handouts/magazines. Evaluation is based on class performance, sketchbook/idea book assignments, assessment of learned techniques and individual skill development, out-of-class assignments, mid-term and final exams. Museum visits are offered when appropriate. Traditional kiln firings, sawdust and raku firings will be explored. Pottery II is an ideal course for any student interested in a career in industrial design, architecture, stage/set design, character design, sculpture and ceramic artist. Prerequisite: Pottery I Recommendation: 83% 24

25 BUSINESS TECHNOLOGY Business Administration is the number one Bachelor s Degree earned in American colleges and universities. The Business Technology curriculum encourages the development of skills for all students. Should a student who plans to pursue a college degree enroll in Business Technology courses? Yes! Courses involving Business Technology can enhance a student's preparation for college studies. Since 70% of college students major in some aspect of business--accounting, computer science, finance, marketing, etc.--the college-bound student will find Business Technology courses beneficial in future studies. Students who plan to obtain employment immediately upon graduating from high school will discover that enrollment in Business Technology subjects will increase their employability. Instruction for these students is specialized to help in developing skills, attitudes, and knowledge to enter a business occupation and to advance to a position of responsibility. As computers are being used in the majority of businesses and most classrooms and homes today, word processing will serve as a component in the technology graduation credit. All students enrolled in any Business Technology course are encouraged to enhance their leadership and business skills through involvement with the Future Business Leaders of America (FLBA), a national organization that fosters leadership skills, self-confidence, career preparation, and scholarship as well as an interest in contributing to one s community. Students may also apply for the National Business Honor Society upon successful completion of three Business Technology course. Business Law Entrepreneurship Coding for Web Page Development Marketing Integrated Technology I,II Word Processing Personal Finance Accounting I,II,III Business Technology Department Business Finance 25

26 ACCOUNTING I Course #640 6 periods/cycle/sem. 1 credit Grades 9-12 (1 tech credit) Accounting is considered to be the language of business. Students who intend to pursue a college degree in any business area will be required to take several accounting courses; therefore, Accounting I is designed for students planning to pursue a career in business or for students desiring to own or operate their own business in the future. This course will build a strong foundation in accounting principles and terminology to be used in further study of accounting, marketing, management, or some other phase of business at the college level. It will also provide enough background to obtain an entry-level position in an accounting-related field upon graduation. Basic principles of accounting are taught from beginning balance sheet through post-closing trial balance for the service and small merchandising businesses. These basic principles and practices are taught using realistic automated accounting software as well as manual accounting procedures. At the end of the course, students will complete an automated accounting simulation for a merchandising business organized as a partnership. Through this simulation, students will be required to identify, analyze, and record accounting transactions for an entire fiscal period using actual business documents. As today's job market requires accountants to be computer literate, this course will provide one computer for each student. This one-student, one-computer concept will allow for extensive hands-on experience in automated accounting principles and practices. Prior computer experience is not necessary. Accounting I may serve as one math credit, technology credit, or one elective credit. ACCOUNTING II Course #632 6 periods/cycle/sem. 1 credit Grades 9-12 (1 tech credit) Accounting II is a continuation of Accounting I. It is designed for students planning to earn a business degree in college or for students desiring to own or operate their own business in the future. However, all students currently enrolled in Accounting I who find this type of work interesting and enjoyable should consider Accounting II and a possible career in business. This class is more individualized and project-oriented. Emphasis is placed upon deeper understanding of business operations and procedures using the computer. Units of study include special journals, uncollectible accounts, plant assets and depreciation, notes and interest, and more. Students will study partnerships as well as corporations. Toward the end of the course, students will complete a realistic automated accounting simulation for a corporation for an entire fiscal period. The simulation will require students to identify, analyze and record various business transactions. As today's job market requires entry-level accountants to be computer literate, the majority of the projects completed in this class will be completed using the computer. This course will provide one computer for each student. This one-student, one-computer concept will allow for extensive hands-on experience in automated accounting principles and practices. Students will gain knowledge by using automated accounting software, and Microsoft Excel. Prerequisite: Accounting I. Recommendation: 74% Accounting II may serve as a technology credit or an advanced elective credit. ACCOUNTING III Course #622 6 periods/cycle/sem. 1 credit Grade (1 tech credit) Accounting III is a continuation of Accounting II. This course provides a more in-depth study of the elements of corporate accounting than previous courses. Students successfully completing Accounting I, II, and III will be better prepared business majors in their area of concentration as well as being able to obtain a job in the 26

27 accounting field directly upon graduation from high school. A better understanding of business activities will be developed and will enable students to interpret financial reports and develop decision-making skills. Computer usage is continued on a more advanced level. Students will be expected to assume a high level of independent study. Accounting III students will continue using automated accounting software as well as Microsoft Excel. During the course, students will complete three realistic automated accounting simulations for corporations. The simulations will require students to identify, analyze, and record various business transactions. Prerequisite: Accounting II. Recommendation: 74% Accounting III may serve as a technology credit or an advanced elective credit. BUSINESS FINANCE Course #625 3 periods/cycle/sem..5 credit Grades (.50 tech credit) Finance is a broad subject as financial decisions are all around us. Whether you work on Wall Street or in a small company, finance is vital to every business. Business Finance will provide an overview of the principles of finance. Students will enter the world of finance through major areas of study that will take students to domestic and global financial markets. Students will study key financial concepts like interest rates, money supply, risk /return and time value of money. They will learn how to review financial statements and ratios to determine sound investments. They will put their skills to use by analyzing companies to determine if they should invest in the company s stock. This course is geared toward serious business students. It is highly recommended that before taking Business Finance the student should have completed at least one of the following: Accounting I, Business Administration-Entrepreneurship or Marketing. BUSINESS LAW Course #647 3 periods/cycle/sem..5 credit Grades 9-12 (.50 tech credit) All students will benefit from having a basic understanding of our legal system. Issues related to business and personal law are in the news every day. Corporate businesses are all over the media due to unethical business practices. Often times these cases are results of corporations not following the legal parameters government has set forth. Business Law will provide students with an understanding of how laws are developed, how ethics play into law-related topics, how civil law pertains to negligence and strict liability and how consumers are protected. Students will also study different types of crimes and criminal defenses and how laws and contracts affect employee/employer relationships. This class will be supplemented with extensive Internet research, case studies and current business law news events. CODING FOR WEB PAGE DEVELOPMENT Course #623 3 periods/cycle/sem..5 credit Grades 9-12 (.50 tech credit) Do you want to create your own individual place on the Internet to start an e-commerce business or personal digital portfolio site? In this Web Design course, students will use a variety of design softwares to organize, create, publish, and manage a web site. This course is designed to introduce high school students to various skills, methods, and techniques related to basic web design, including HTML hand coding, CSS (cascading style sheets), image optimization, animations, backgrounds, page images, and responsive designs. Students will explore the structure of the World Wide Web and learn HTML5 and Cascading Sheet Styles languages while primarily using Adobe products (Dreamweaver) for designing web pages. COMPUTER SCIENCE EXPLORATIONS AND DISCOVERIES Course #628 3 periods/cycle/sem..5 credit 27

28 Computer Science (CS) Discoveries is an introductory Computer Science course created by Code.org that gives students a chance to engage with Computer Science as a medium for creativity, communication, problem solving, and fun. CS Discoveries is designed from the ground up to be an accessible and engaging course for all students, regardless of background or prior experience. CS Discoveries aims to introduce students to tools and programming languages that are accessible for beginners, but which offer plenty of room to grow and create sophisticated projects. Using Code.org s App Lab programming environment, students will be able to transition from blocks to typed code at their own pace while learning JavaScript. This tool will enable students to build simple animations, stories, or games as well as apps. COMPUTER SCIENCE INNOVATION AND IMPACT Course #629 3 periods/cycle/sem..5 credit This course, the second semester of Code.org s CS Discoveries, explores the impact of computer science on society. Elements will include the use of a user-centered design process, exposure to the ways personal information is collected from websites and used by developers and companies, and the introduction of circuit boards as a means to collect inputs and generate outputs. Throughout the course, students will develop, improve, and add functionality to an app. Prerequisite: Computer Science Explorations and Discoveries ENTREPRENEURSHIP Course #624 3 periods/cycle/sem..5 credit Grades (.50 tech credit) Entrepreneurship (formally Business Administration) will give students the opportunity to learn the basics of planning and researching the skills needed to own, operate, and run their own successful business. Whether they want to start their own money-making business or create a non-profit to help others, this course helps students develop the core skills they need to be successful. They learn how to come up with new business ideas, attract investors, market their business, and manage expenses. Students will focus their attention on the real skills required of entrepreneurs to develop a business plan. Students will develop their own concept and take that concept though the cycle of creating a new business. Students hear inspirational stories of teen entrepreneurs who have turned their ideas into reality, and then they plan and execute their own business. INTEGRATED TECHNOLOGY I Course #634 3 periods/cycle/sem..5 credit Grades 9-12 (.50 tech credit) This course is highly recommended for all students as it is designed to provide students a broad introduction to the use of Microsoft Office tools for creativity, communications and organization of business and personal information. College bound students and entry-level employees are expected to be proficient in word processing, spreadsheets, presentations and data base computer applications upon completion of high school. In addition to learning the technical fundamentals of Microsoft Office Tools, students will build skills in researching information, making appropriate ethical choices, and using technology to help write reports and business communications (Microsoft Word), use spreadsheets and their formula applications (Microsoft Excel), make professional business presentations (Microsoft PowerPoint), and to use a database management system (Microsoft Access)- A MUST FOR COLLEGE. INTEGRATED TECHNOLOGY II Course #635 3 periods/cycle/sem..5 credit Grades 9-12 (.50 tech credit) Integrated Technology II is intended as the second course of Microsoft Office Applications to provide further training that will build upon students computer proficiency acquired in Integrated Technology 1. Upon successful completion of the course student will be able to go beyond the fundamentals and offer an in-depth presentation to 28

29 Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Access by acquainting students with the proper procedures to create and enhance documents, presentations, worksheets, and databases suitable for coursework, professional purposes, and personal use. This course will expose students to practical business examples of utilizing the computer as a business tool and help students discover the underlying functionality of Microsoft Office so they can become more productive. Prerequisite: Integrated Technology I Recommendation: 74% Integrated Technology II may serve as an advanced elective credit. MARKETING Course #621 3 periods/cycle/sem..50 credit Grades 9-12 (.50 tech credit) Marketing is exciting, important, and profitable. This course will expose students to a wide variety of marketing topics, and explain why it is an important business function in today s companies as well as the driving force for profitability and revenue growth. Marketing is ideal for students planning a career in the business world and also for all students as consumers of the future. Students will study the marketing mix (product, price, promotion, and place) and distribution theories and decisions using historical and current product and company examples. Social media will be emphasized with studies on how it is changing business. Students will also study consumer buying behaviors and the techniques that marketers use to try to increase sales. By studying marketing, students will learn how businesses use marketing to increase their effectiveness and their profits. This is also a great course for students to improve their own personal marketing skills which they will use throughout life. PERSONAL FINANCE Course #630 6 periods/cycle/sem. 1 credit Grades (.25 tech credit) Financial literacy is critical for students as they progress through their lives. The importance of being financially literate is crucial to success and stability. Students examine personal real-world applications of math skills used by all workers and consumers. These applications include the calculation of gross and net income, use of checking and savings accounts, preparation of personal income taxes, cash and charge purchases, loans, the cost of owning and operating an automobile, housing cost, insurance, personal investments, and budgets. These skills are then applied to realistic business and personal situations as they pertain to different departments of a large business. Microsoft Excel will also be used to complete financial spreadsheet applications. 1 Math credit or 1 elective credit. 29

30 ENGLISH For books are more than books, they are the life, the very heart and core of ages past, the reason why men lived and worked and died, the essence and quintessence of their lives. ~Amy Lowell~ And so, in English classes at Garnet Valley, you will learn the reason why men and women lived and died, worked and struggled, who they were and why they believed that was the way they should be. You will know how to analyze literature and will find that words even your words have power. Famous authors, including Shakespeare and Fitzgerald, will be read along with more modern and multicultural selections from great new authors such as Angelou and Acheba. Delve into the world as described by those who lived it, and learn to reflect and describe your world all in your English class. Honors English 9 (110) or ATP Challenge (010E) & High School 101 (099) ENGLISH PROGRAM (Recommended Sequence of English Courses) 9 th 10 th 11 th 12th English 10 (111) or Challenge (102) English 11 (112) or AP Language (118) & Career Development (125) English 12 (113) or AP English Literature (114) Academic English 9 (120) & High School 101 (099) English 10 (121) English 11 (122) & Career Development (125) English 12 (123) General Studies *must qualify English 9 (130) & High School 101 (099) English 10 (131) English 11 (132) & Career Development (125) English 12 (133) Students planning to major in Communications, Theatre, Education or English in college should consider taking an English elective each year. Electives offered every year: Acting I Introduction to Theater Acting II Schools of Acting Acting Studio: Theatre Process and Improvisation (150) Acting Advanced Studio: Performance and Management of Theater ( ) (151) Journalism -.5 credit (128) Public Speaking (126) - open to juniors and seniors only Electives offered every other year: Composition (129) Creative Writing (135) Intro to Novel I (116) Intro to Nonfiction I (119) Award Winning Books..Novel II (107) Award Winning Books..Nonfiction II (106) Strategies for Advanced Literacy Workshop (134) Testing and Literacy Workshop (137) School Success: SAT Prep (001) 30

31 HIGH SCHOOL 101 Course #099 3 periods/cycle/semester.50 credit High School 101 is a seminar course designed to help students make a successful transition from middle school to high school. Aside from general orientation and guidance for navigating high school, students will gain valuable, future ready skills such as critical thinking and problem solving, goal setting techniques, proper use of information and communication technology, leadership and ethics, personal productivity, social responsibility and collaboration. The central pillars of self-reflection, goal setting and social responsibility will be explored through a mix of lecture, discussion, group projects, individual work, guest speakers and film. Projects include a detailed self-reflection evaluation, a collaborative anti-bullying campaign and a classwide service project. ENGLISH 9 LITERATURE AND LANGUAGE Utilizing the PA Common Core Standards, ninth grade students will advance their reading, writing, discussion, research and analytical skills. Students will learn to determine the theme or central idea of a text and analyze in detail its development over the course of the text. They will be able to cite strong and thorough textual evidence to support analysis, inferences and conclusions based on the actual text as well as an author s assumptions and beliefs about a subject. They will identify an author s particular point of view and analyze how rhetoric advances that point of view. Students will research, develop and analyze a topic with relevant, well-chosen, and sufficient facts, extended definitions, concrete details, quotations, or other information and examples appropriate to the audience s knowledge of the topic. Students will consistently read independently, and be able to apply these texts to topics in the classroom. Throughout the year, certain common texts will be used in all levels-general Studies, Academic, Honors and ATP. However, key characteristics differentiating these levels will include: reading level of supplemental materials, pacing, expectations of workload, and expected work product. HONORS ENGLISH 9 Course #110 6 periods/cycle/ semester 1 credit Prerequisite: English 8 Honors Recommendation: B Prerequisite: English 8 Academic Recommendation: A ACADEMIC ENGLISH 9 Course #120 6 periods/cycle/ semester 1 credit GENERAL STUDIES ENGLISH 9 Course #130 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Ninth grade students may be recommended for General Studies ENGLISH 9 if they meet the criteria established for that course. See Page 3. 9TH GRADE CHALLENGE (ATP - ENGLISH/SOCIAL STUDIES) Course #010E 6 periods/cycle/year 1 credit Grades 9 This course is designed to engage gifted students in higher level reading, writing and thinking skills. A mix of traditional 9th grade texts, including The Odyssey and Romeo and Juliet, as well as modern and multicultural literature will be examined. Students will also complete a large independent project each marking period. Independent reading and vocabulary enrichment are components of the curriculum, as well as writing narrative, persuasive, descriptive and expository essays. A rapid pace and motivated learners will combine for an exciting semester. 31

32 ENGLISH 10 LITERATURE AND WRITING Utilizing the PA Common Core Standards, in 10th grade, students will read informational text, analyzing how a central idea emerges and is shaped and refined; citing the author s explicit assumptions and beliefs; and analyzing, interpreting, and evaluating an analysis or series of ideas or events. When it comes to reading literature, students will analyze how a central idea or theme emerges and is shaped and refined by specific details; cite strong and thorough textual evidence to draw conclusions about an author s explicit assumptions and beliefs; and analyze how character development and interaction advance plot and theme as well as how authors transform themes, topics, and/or character types from source material in a specific work. In terms of writing, students will write informational/explanatory texts to examine and convey complex ideas, concepts, and information clearly and accurately, developing and analyzing the topic with relevant, well-chosen, and sufficient facts, extended definitions, concrete details, quotations, and other information and examples appropriate to the audience s knowledge of the topic. Throughout the year, certain texts will be used in all three levels-general Studies, Academic and Honors. However, key characteristics differentiating these levels will include: reading level of supplemental materials, pacing, expectations of workload, and expected work product. HONORS ENGLISH 10 Course #111 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Prerequisite: English 9 Honors Recommendation: 83% Prerequisite: English 9 Academic Recommendation: 91% ACADEMIC ENGLISH 10 Course #121 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit GENERAL STUDIES ENGLISH 10 Course #131 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Tenth grade students may be recommended for General Studies ENGLISH 10 if they meet the criteria established for that course. See Page 3. 10TH GRADE CHALLENGE (ATP- ENGLISH) Course #102 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Grade 10 In an enriched atmosphere, gifted students will focus on a variety of writing styles, including expository, persuasive, descriptive, and narrative, while also conducting research projects in a literature program that includes all literary genres. The course is conducted as a seminar with ample time provided for class discussion, which is predominantly centered around the creator/creation archetype in literature. In particular, students will examine how an author s life and/or society shapes his/her plot, theme, conflict, and characterization, and how internal and external factors generate motivation, including the pursuit of power and control and the pursuit of achievement and self-worth. Students will be expected to display advanced analytical skills and produce writing and class discussion that reflects this superior understanding. Tests and research projects will require formal writing so that the student is more prepared for the rigors of Advanced Placement or Honors English 11th grade. 32

33 ENGLISH 11 THE AMERICAN EXPERIENCE Utilizing the PA Common Core Standards, in 11th grade, students will read informational text to determine and analyze the relationship between two or more central ideas of a text, including the development and interaction of the central ideas, provide an objective summary of the text, analyze the interaction and development of a complex set of ideas, sequence of events, or specific individuals over the course of the text, evaluate how an author s point of view or purpose shapes the content and style of a text, analyze and evaluate the effectiveness of the structure an author uses in his or her exposition or argument, including whether the structure makes points clear, convincing, and engaging, evaluate how words and phrases shape meaning and tone in texts, analyze seminal texts based upon reasoning, premises, purposes, and arguments, and analyze foundational U.S. and world documents of historical, political, and literary significance for their themes, purposes, and rhetorical features. When it comes to reading literature, students will analyze the impact of the author s choices regarding how to develop and relate elements of a story or drama, analyze multiple interpretations of a story, drama, or poem, evaluating how each version interprets the source text (include at least one play by Shakespeare and one play by an American dramatist), and demonstrate knowledge of foundational works of literature that reflect a variety of genres in the respective major periods of literature, including how two or more texts from the same period treat similar themes or topics. Throughout the year, certain texts will be used in all three levels-general Studies, Academic and Honorsof instruction. However, key characteristics differentiating these levels will include: reading level of supplemental materials, pacing, expectations of workload, and expected work product. HONORS ENGLISH 11 Course #112 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Prerequisite: English 10 Honors Recommendation: 83% Prerequisite: English 10 Academic Recommendation: 91% ACADEMIC ENGLISH 11 Course #122 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit GENERAL STUDIES ENGLISH 11 Course #132 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Eleventh grade students may be recommended for General Studies ENGLISH 11 if they meet the criteria established for that course. See Page 3. AP ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND COMPOSITION Course #118 6 periods/cycle/ semester 1 credit Prerequisite: English 10 ATP Challenge Recommendation: 83% Prerequisite: English 10 Honors Recommendation: 91% The Advanced Placement Language and Composition course is an introductory college-level writing course that engages students in becoming skilled readers of prose written in a variety of periods, disciplines, and rhetorical contexts and in becoming skilled writers who compose for a variety of purposes. The course is taught in a college format, emphasizing discussions, lectures, essay writing, position papers, guided AP exam practice, and various other learning activities. Students are expected to fully participate in discussions, debates, simulations, or any other class activity on a daily basis. AP Language and Composition is a demanding course representing a great deal of material to be presented in a limited amount of time. The added individual efforts needed to prepare for the exam in May makes this course extremely challenging to a high school junior. 33

34 CAREER DEVELOPMENT Career Development is a Garnet Valley School District grade 11 requirement to be taken as well as English 11. Course #125 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades (Academic) This course is designed for all students in order to provide an opportunity to develop skills, which are essential for success in making the transition from high school to post-secondary studies, as well as to one s chosen career. Upon completion of the course, students should be able to identify and demonstrate how to project a professional image and apply decision-making skills in establishing educational and career goals. Course activities, which will provide career development opportunities, will include research of a chosen career and selfevaluation, interviews, preparation of resumes and other employment-related documents, participation in a mentoring experience, and composition of a personal statement. In addition to these activities, students will have the opportunity to view others in interview situations as well as participate in a mock interview, interact with professionals in one s chosen field, and learn from the experiences of guest speakers. Through these activities, students will be prepared to make more informed career choices and improve their success as more confident potential employees. This course is a graduation requirement, which requires out-of-school job shadowing experiences and a multi-phased portfolio project. These two requirements, as well as the class in its entirety, will meet the Pennsylvania Department of Education requirement for a culminating project. Students not completing either project and/or the class with a grade of 65% or above must retake the class and redo the assignments to fulfill this graduation requirement. ENGLISH 12 CRITICAL LENSES UNDERSTANDING THE CULTURAL AND HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE OF LITERATURE Utilizing the PA Common Core Standards, in 12th grade, students will learn to cite strong and thorough textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly, as well as inferences and conclusions based on and related to an author s implicit and explicit assumptions and beliefs, evaluate how an author s point of view or purpose shapes the content and style of a text, analyze and evaluate the effectiveness of the structure an author uses in his or her exposition or argument, including whether the structure makes points clear, convincing, and engaging. Students will analyze world documents of historical, political, and literary significance for their themes, purposes, and rhetorical features. Lastly, students will demonstrate knowledge of foundational works of literature that reflect a variety of genres in the respective major periods of literature, including how two or more texts from the same period treat similar themes or topics. HONORS ENGLISH 12 Course #113 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Prerequisite: English 11 Honors Recommendation: 83% Prerequisite: English 11 Academic Recommendation: 91% ACADEMIC ENGLISH 12 Course #123 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Academic English 12 GENERAL STUDIES ENGLISH 12 Course #133 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Twelfth grade students may be recommended for General Studies ENGLISH 12 if they meet the criteria established for that course. See page 3. Throughout the year, certain texts will be used in all three levels-general Studies, Academic and Honors-of instruction. However, key characteristics differentiating these levels will include: reading level of supplemental materials, pacing, expectations of workload, and expected work product. 34

35 AP ENGLISH LITERATURE AND COMPOSITION Course #114 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Prerequisite: English 11 AP Language Recommendation: 83% Prerequisite: English 11 Honors Recommendation: 91% This course includes readings representative of all literary genres and a wide variety of nations. Students examine literature, which exemplifies all literary periods and "schools" in order to gain a perspective on the scope and sequence of literature as it evolved. The outstanding qualities of writing from each period and the philosophies that attend it are noted so that the students may grasp a correlation between a piece of literature and the society from which it grew. Emphasis in literature is placed on developing skills in interpreting, analyzing and criticizing literature while evaluating each piece cognizant of the qualities it should reflect. Attention is given to structure, style, levels of diction, and use of specific literary techniques, which enhance the work. Students' writing assignments require that they be able to organize, develop and substantiate points logically, use language of several types and levels of diction, and illustrate ability in descriptive, persuasive, narrative and expository writing. Students are strongly encouraged to take the Advanced Placement Examination are required to pay the test fee. 35

36 ENGLISH ELECTIVES ACTING I INTRODUCTION TO THEATER Course #109 3 periods/cycle/semester.50 credit Grades 9-12 (Academic) This class is designed for actors and stage crew interested in performing and working in the Garnet Valley Performing Arts. It is also designed for those wishing to increase their confidence with public speaking and overcome stage fright. In this class students will work on discovering movement through coordination and motivation. They will work on improvisation skills including imagination, observation, relaxation, and concentration. Students will work on voice skills and study the anatomy of vocal and sound production. The physical theater will be discussed including proper stage terminology and the stage environment. Students will read classics of American theater such as To Kill a Mockingbird and The Glass Menagerie. ADVANCED ACTING PHILOSOPHY OF SCHOOLS OF ACTING AND SCENE STUDY Course #108 3 periods/cycle/semester.50 credit Grades 9-12 (Academic) This course will help students understand the art of scene study and character study. Students will learn improvisation, character analysis, and will mentor and work with each other to design, write and act plays and scenes for themselves and for elementary and special education students. The schools of acting technique including Meisner, Strasberg, Stanislavski, and Adler will be explained and actors will be required to learn and perform scenes in each of these methods. Students will read and perform modern plays and scenes such as Death of a Salesman, A Raisin in the Sun, A Streetcar Named Desire, An Enemy of the People and others. Prerequisite: Acting or Musical Theater ACTING STUDIO: THEATRE PROCESS AND IMPROVISATION Course #150 3 periods/cycle/semester.50 credit Grades (Honors) This advanced class allows the student to build on the tools they gained in previous acting classes or stage performances to stretch their abilities as they attack more difficult acting problems through situations that are foreign and unfamiliar. Recognizing and understanding the subtext of a scene is explored as students examine the texture, tone and timing found in plays of contemporary and classic writers to bring subtle nuances to their performances. Students will comprehend and evaluate complex plays and materials across a range of time so they can discern a playwright s key points, request clarification from a director, and ask relevant questions. Students will build strong content knowledge of seminal plays of multiple periods. Students will establish a base of knowledge across a wide range of drama by engaging with works of quality and substance. Students will create and perform a well known work for the stage. Prerequisite: Acting Introduction, Acting Philosophy, Musical Theater or performance/crew in GVHS productions. ADVANCED ACTING STUDIO PERFORMANCE AND MANAGEMENT OF THEATER Course #151 3 periods/cycle/ semester.5 credit Grades (Honors) This course is designed as a culmination of the student s acting and/or crew training and as preparation for entry into the professional or collegiate community. Special emphasis is placed on recognizing character types, the choice of suitable audition material and interacting with partners. In this final theatre class for advanced actors and experienced crew, students will also learn about theatre in context, and will explore the various contexts of theatre and how they inform practice; theatre processes, engaging in the processes of transforming ideas into action; and presenting theatre, whereby the students will develop and apply theatre production, presentation and performance skills, working both independently and collaboratively. Assessment pieces include examining a play text, creating original theatre, and exploring performance practices from around the world. Acting students will 36

37 choose and prepare monologues for college and work auditions and both crew and actors will create portfolios of work for use in college and job admission. Students will then focus on selecting and rehearsing monologues and on partnered scenes, as well as a complete play to be performed in a culminating showcase. Crew students will design and create all aspects of sets, costumes, and lighting for the culminating performance. Curricular design based on research from Prerequisite: Acting Studio, or multiple performances/crew in GVHS productions. JOURNALISM Course #128 3 periods/cycle/ semester.5 credit Grades 9-12 (Academic) (.5 tech credit) In journalism, students learn about the role of the news media in today's society. Students evaluate their own news habits as they become more savvy consumers of the media and effective producers of news. Students will learn how the journalist, by virtue of their role as a prime interpreter of events, not only have the freedom to express their own views but also have the power to influence public decisions. Consequently, students will explore newspaper ethics and bias in the media in addition to gathering, writing, and editing, news articles, interviews, and editorials. Students will learn practices to skillfully interview and research, craft leads, and create news and feature articles that inform and engage readers. Students also learn how to structure narratives to fashion different types of articles as they develop their writing, editing, and analytic skills throughout this class. COMPOSITION ( ) Course #129 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades 9-12 (Academic) Are you confused when the teacher states that your mechanics and writing structure need improvement? Do you want to develop a better appreciation of literature through writing? Are you in need of a greater awareness of words? Can you substitute exact, specific, vigorous words for vague, roundabout expressions and clichés? Do you need to learn techniques for organizing and developing a topic? Are you concerned about writing essays in college? For answers and solutions to these questions, take the composition course. The only pre-requisite is the interest and willingness to improve your present writing skills. This course has been developed to enhance and enrich basic writing skills. Emphasis will be placed upon expository writing, although there will be exercises in descriptive, argumentative, and narrative styles. Opportunities will be presented at the end of the semester for some creative writings. CREATIVE WRITING ( ) Course #135 3 periods/cycle/ semester.5 credit Grades 9-12 (Academic) (.25 tech credit) Students will obtain comprehensive knowledge of creative writing through exposure to plot structures, figurative language, literary devices and writing techniques. The main focus of the course will involve writing in a workshop format that will deal with drafting, revising and publishing the student s own work in poetry and fictive prose. INTRODUCTION TO NON FICTION I ( ) Course #119 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades 9-12 (Academic) Students will marvel at the world we live in as we explore non-fiction reading. The books selected for this class are all true and are all critically acclaimed. Through these readings, students will explore human nature, cultural revolutions, the American legal system, business ethics, and class disparity in the US. Students will learn to cite strong and thorough textual evidence to support analysis of what the nonfiction text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn by the author and the reader, including determining where the text leaves matters uncertain. Students will provide an objective summary of the text and also learn to determine two or more themes or central ideas of a text and analyze their development over the course of the text, including how they interact and build on one another to produce a complex account. Our readings will take us from inner city DC to Cuba, from Iran to Mt. 37

38 Everest and even from Wal-Mart to McDonalds. Students will strengthen reading, comprehension and discussion skills and learn more about the world in which we live. A conscientious commitment to required reading and a willingness to share thoughts with the class via blogs and class discussions are essential tools required in order to succeed in this class. AWARD WINNING BOOKS AND AUTHORS NON FICTION ( ) Course #106 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades 9-12 (Academic) Every year, highly esteemed literary organizations in the US and worldwide scour newly published books and compile a long list, a short list, and ultimately a winner of the best book of the year. In this class, we will select 4-6 of the most recent titles nominated in the non-fiction category by the following groups: The Pulitzer Prize The National Book Award The Baillie Gifford Prize Participation in this class is a unique opportunity to read closely and explore the meaning of some of the most important, compelling writing of our times. These are the authors who will be included in the literature anthologies of the future and these are the topics that are meaningful and relevant today. As with Novel I, a conscientious commitment to required reading and a willingness to share your insights are the essential tools required to succeed in this class. Since the books selected are newly published and always rotating, there will be a materials fee of approximately $30 to cover the purchase of the books. Prerequisite: Introduction to Non-Fiction INTRODUCTION TO THE NOVEL ( ) Course #116 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades 9-12 (Academic) This course is especially designed for two distinct groups of students. One is the student who desires to develop his/her enjoyment and confidence in reading and the other is the student who is already an avid and even voracious reader. In this class we will explore a variety of mostly contemporary novels, which are diverse in theme, setting, and style. A conscientious commitment to required reading and a willingness to share thoughts with the class via blogs and class discussion are essential tools required to succeed in this class. The class has the 'feel' of a book club setting with assessments consisting almost entirely of regular quizzes for reading checks and summative projects using various media and technology to demonstrate understanding and meaning. Discovering who you are as a reader, developing your literacy skills, and interacting with thoughtful classmates are some of the rewards for participating in this class. AWARD WINNING BOOKS AND AUTHORS FICTION ( ) Course #107 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades 9-12 (Academic) Every year, highly esteemed literary organizations in the US and worldwide scour newly published books and compile a long list, a short list, and ultimately a winner of the best book of the year. In this class, we will select 4-6 of the most recent titles nominated in the fiction category by the following groups: The Booker Prize The Pulitzer Prize The National Book Award The Scotiabank Giller Prize Participation in this class is a unique opportunity to read closely and explore the meaning of some of the most important, compelling writing of our times. These are the authors who will be included in the literature anthologies of the future and these are the topics that are meaningful and relevant today. As with Novel I, a conscientious commitment to required reading and a willingness to share your insights are the essential tools required to succeed in this class. Since the books selected are newly published and always rotating, there will be a materials fee of approximately $30 to cover the purchase of the books. Prerequisite: Introduction to The Novel 38

39 PUBLIC SPEAKING Course #126 3 periods/cycle/ semester.5 credit Grades Do you have lalophobia (a fear of public speaking)? Do you think you will ever have to give a speech at any time in your life other than in school? You probably will. This is a course that should have social and vocational value for all students. Correct voice production, pronunciation, and the art of listening are stressed. Types of speeches and techniques are studied. Poise and self-confidence are developed by regular appearances before a group. Take it -- you'll like it! ENGLISH ELECTIVES STRATEGIES FOR TEST SUCCESS SAT PREPARATION* Course #001 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades *Course Fee: The student will be required to purchase consumable SAT Workbooks for their personal use. Price will be in accordance with the actual cost of the books. Students will spend half of the course time on English language concepts and half of the course time on Mathematics concepts. This English portion of this course is designed to help students become familiar with the format of the Reading and Writing & Language sections of the SAT. The course will cover general strategies for the test, as well as strategies specific to particular question and reading passage types. A cursory review of the most commonly tested grammar concepts will also be included. Prerequisite: Successful completion of English 9, Algebra I and Geometry. NOTE: The student should have one experience taking the PSAT or SAT before taking this class. ADVANCED LITERACY WORKSHOP Course #134 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Fall Grade 11 This workshop is designed for students who have not scored proficient on the Keystone Literature Test and is geared to reinforcing and enhancing literacy skills. LITERACY WORKSHOP Course #137 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grade 9-10 This course is designed to provide grade 9 and 10 students with literacy instruction. Students enrolled in Literacy Workshop will receive explicit instruction in strategies to improve their comprehension of text across all subject areas. Students will also learn to use inquiry and analysis to closely read both fiction and nonfiction texts. Through modeling and guided practice, students will learn to be active, lifelong readers. A combination of scores and recommendations will identify students for enrollment, and a demonstration of mastery will identify students who are ready to exit the program at the end of the course. 39

40 FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCES The Family and Consumer Sciences Department is committed to preparing students for independent living and for careers that relate to the curricular offerings. All students are faced with choices and decisions that affect their physical, emotional and psychological well-being. The course offerings give students an opportunity to develop skills that help with these choices and decisions. The following courses are multidisciplinary in nature and based on real life situations. STUDY OF DEVELOPMENTAL SCIENCES CHILD DEVELOPMENT Course # periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades 9-12 Do you ever wonder how children think, why they do the things they do and how they grow into adults? In this course you will explore how the family influences the child s development. The Child Development and Family Relations course offers an in-depth study of the developing child from the stages of conception, fetal development and birth through age 3 as well as how a child develops physically, intellectually, emotionally and socially. Students will examine issues related to parenthood and childcare including the decisions and readiness, rewards and responsibilities of having a child. An understanding of Child Psychology, effective methods of Child Guidance and The Early Childhood Initiative: Focusing on Brain Development are important components of this class. The goals of this course are to strengthen families and encourage personal growth. Effective ways to communicate with both children and adults are studied and practiced. This is a valuable course for those interested in career areas such as pediatric medicine, early childhood education, day care supervision social work, child psychology, teaching and parenting. PRESCHOOL LABORATORY (PSL) EXPERIENCES The Preschool Laboratory elective courses focus on an extensive body of knowledge about teaching. High School students receive instruction in proven research-based practices and are involved in hands-on experiences to utilize this knowledge. These courses are recommended for any student, male or female, who is planning a career in Preschool, elementary or secondary education, counseling or psychology, medicine, nursing, children services, children with special needs, related fields dealing with children and anyone who enjoys working with children. PRESCHOOL LABORATORY EXPERIENCE I Course #734 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Grades 9-12 (1 tech credit) Our student run preschool, The Little Jags Sunshine Club, offers high school students the experience of responsible roles in creating a high quality educational experience for the young child. Students learn how to meet the preschool child s developmental needs through interactions with the 3 5 year olds enrolled in our Little Jags Club, three days per week. Our Preschool provides an in-depth study of the preschool child through the development of thematic lesson plans, preparation of necessary materials, teaching and evaluating of the lesson, and operating the Little Jags Sunshine Club. Students learn how to communicate effectively with children by using positive guidance techniques and how to motivate and supervise children. These skills can be used while babysitting or working at youth camps and have a direct correlation to improving relationships. Best of all, this course is a very exciting and enjoyable way to learn about children and yourself. 40

41 PRESCHOOL LABORATORY EXPERIENCE II Course #735 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Grades (1 tech credit) Practice makes perfect! This course is designed for the highly motivated student who has successfully completed Preschool Lab I with an 74% or better, and who desires to continue to improve his/her skills. Each student in this class will assume greater responsibility and become a role model for the Preschool Laboratory I students in the planning of lessons and positive interactions with the Preschoolers. He/she is expected to serve in the capacity of a Teaching Group Leader. The involvement with the children will allow him/her to experience first hand situations that require him/her to think, plan, problem-solve, experience, observe, analyze and reflect through the leading of both one-on-one and small group activities. The student will also complete a study focusing on a child s social, emotional, cognitive and gross and fine motor development based on individual activities and observations made during the semester. Only seniors may elect Preschool Laboratory Experience I and Preschool Laboratory Experience II in the same school year. Prerequisite: Preschool Laboratory I Recommendation: 74% ELEMENTARY FIELD EXPERIENCE I Course # Hours 1 credit Grades (.5 tech credit) Elementary Field Experience is a course for the highly motivated student who plans to major in elementary or secondary education at the college level. The course is a field based internship which provides students background knowledge of the school age child development principles as well as principles of effective teaching practices. Participating as a Teacher s Assistant at Concord, Garnet Valley Elementary, Bethel Springs or the Garnet Valley Middle School, students plan and direct individualized instructional and group activities, prepare instructional materials, assist with record keeping, make physical arrangements and complete other responsibilities of a classroom teacher. Opportunities for experiences in special education classes may be available. A professional portfolio is required as a final project. The student is expected to demonstrate promptness, initiative, self-discipline, resourcefulness and respect. Students who plan to pursue a career in Education, Special Needs, Counseling and all occupations dealing with Children and Family Services, will find these skills necessary. Prerequisite: Preschool Laboratory II Recommendation: 83% ELEMENTARY FIELD EXPERIENCE II Course # Hours 1 credit Grade 12 (.5 tech credit) Field Experience II is a course designed for the serious student who plans to major in Elementary Education at the college level. Placement in another grade level is utilized to allow students to have experiences in a full range of educational career roles, grade levels, subject levels and ability groups. A professional portfolio will continue to be developed for personal growth as well as possible college admission and credit. Prerequisite: Field Experience I Recommendation: 91% 41

42 CULINARY ARTS For all Foods Technology courses: These courses may not be repeated for credit. A materials fee of $15.00 is required for all courses to defray the cost of supplies. FOODS & NUTRITION I Course #729 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades Foods & Nutrition I is designed to focus on the science of Food and Nutrition. Experiences will include food safety and sanitation, culinary technology and food preparation of the 21st Century. Foods & Nutrition labs will be at an introductory level. FOODS & NUTRITION II Course #730 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades Foods & Nutrition II is for students who have completed Foods & Nutrition I. This is an advanced nutrition and food course with a global perspective. Students will be introduced to various food cultures and food patterns in the family life cycle. The study and application of nutrition, sanitation, food sciences and technology in this course provides students with laboratory-based experiences that will strengthen their comprehension of concepts and standards. BAKING AND PASTRY FUNDAMENTALS Course #731 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grade 9-12 The focus of this course is on applying the basic baking principles and skills necessary to produce a wide array of baked goods and confections. We will discuss both the how and why of baking. Throughout the course, we will use recipes that identify bake shop ingredients and equipment. FOOD FOR LIFE - THE LIGHTER TOUCH Course #728 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades This course provides the foundation for a lifetime of healthy eating, based on current nutritional guidelines and recommendations. Students develop a pro-active, personalized diet philosophy incorporating self-analysis, evaluation of food trends and topical health issues. Students prepare nutritionally balanced menus and health conscious recipes and make informed decisions about substituting ingredients. Foods labs explore a variety of cooking methods emphasizing flavor, quality, moderation and planning. This course is recommended for students considering careers in health related fields, culinary arts and restaurant ownership, and anyone interested in improving his overall sense of health and well-being. 42

43 PRACTICAL SKILLS FOR THE LIFELONG LEARNER LIFE MANAGEMENT: THE CONFIDENT CONSUMER Course #733 3 periods/cycle/ semester.5 credit Grades 9-12 This course is designed to prepare students with the critical knowledge, skills and incentives needed to function as productive, healthy young adults as they prepare to leave home and live on their own. Today s teens are the wealthiest teenage generation EVER!! Too many young people make personal financial decisions lacking the understandings of the marketplace. As a result, they find themselves victims of impulse buying, advertising, the lure of credit and a host of other forces that weaken their buying power in the market. Life Management/Consumer Education focuses on personal development and goals for life and decisions for successful living. This course offers the tools you need to build a strong self-concept, a positive first impression, and the skills for future planning, decision-making, etiquette and consumerism. This course uses the Internet and Consumer Reports magazine as a source of consumer information. The Financial Planning Unit is based on the National Endowment for Financial Education: High School Financial Planning Program. It is never too early to learn how to be a confident consumer and make good decisions about your future. HOUSING AND INTERIOR DESIGN Course #739 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades 9-12 *Materials fee $10.00 This.5 course is designed for the student interested in Interior Design. It will cover the history of the profession and career opportunities. The student will learn the basis for design in all facets. The principles and elements of design, color, space and furnishings are covered. Exterior architecture and consumer aspects of housing are also addressed. 43

44 LIBRARY GARNET VALLEY STUDENT TECHNOLOGY TEAM I FOUNDATIONS OF TECHNOLOGY SUPPORT Course #600 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades The purpose of the student help desk is to have a centralized place within the high school, open every period of the day, for teachers and students to visit in the event they need technology support or quick troubleshooting. The student tech team is not a replacement for professional technology support personnel in the high school, but added support to enhance communication and service. Students will serve as the initial point of contact for all technology issues, document their interactions, and funnel workflow to appropriate personnel. Data collected will enable better needs assessment of tech issues school wide. Students will be developing skills through real world interactions with technology and people rather than simulated learning environments. 44

45 MATHEMATICS The Mathematics Department at Garnet Valley High School is dedicated to providing the structures through which students can successfully solve "real life" problems. These structures include: 1. Attention to the detail of accurate computation. 2. Alertness to the reasonableness of the results. 3. The study of logical systems. 4. Conceptual foundations for further study in mathematics. 5. The use of scientific calculators and graphing calculators. Please feel free to contact any mathematics teacher to discuss your planning as it relates to math. Recommended Sequence of Math Courses 45

46 PERSONAL FINANCE (SEE PAGE 25) Course #630 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Grades (Academic) PRE-ALGEBRA Course #230 3 periods/cycle/year 1 credit (General Studies) The topics taught in this course include a review of basic arithmetic with fractions, decimals, signed numbers, and absolute value. Students will work with variables, variable expressions, evaluating expressions, inequalities, graphing, and solving linear equations. ALGEBRA I - A Course #220 3 periods/cycle/year 1 credit (Academic) This course includes the following Algebra I topics: Linear Equations and Inequalities, Systems of linear equations and Inequalities, Polynomials, Quadratics, Functions, and Function notation. All Functions are examined from a numerical, graphical, algebraic, and verbal point of view with an emphasis on solving real world application problems. Prerequisite: Math 8 Level 1 Recommendation: 74% ALGEBRA I - B Course #234 6 periods/cycle/year 2 credits (Academic) This course allows students to accomplish all of the goals of Algebra I over a two-semester time period. This course includes the following Algebra I topics: Linear Equations and Inequalities, Systems of linear equations and Inequalities, Polynomials, Quadratics, Functions, and Function notation. All Functions are examined from a numerical, graphical, algebraic, and verbal point of view with an emphasis on solving real world application problems. Prerequisite: Math 8 Level 2 Recommendation: 74% ALGEBRA I - GS Course #221 3 periods/cycle/year 1 credit (General Studies) This full year every other day course is designed for 10 th through 12 th grade students who are performing below grade level but are ready to pursue Algebra I. This is a second course in a high school program for students who have been selected from the high school Pre-Algebra course to participate in this General Studies Algebra I course. Topics include: Real Number Operations, Linear Equations, and Inequalities and Polynomials. Prerequisite: Pre-Algebra Recommendation: 65% GEOMETRY Course #210 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit (Honors) This course includes geometric proofs. The specific topics include parallel lines, congruent triangles, similar polygons, circles, right triangles, trigonometry, constructions, area, and volume. Algebraic concepts will be applied to solve geometric problems. Emphasis on sequential reasoning and problem solving will enable students to think analytically about abstract and real world applications of each topic. Prerequisite: Algebra I (Honors) Recommendation: 83% Prerequisite: Algebra I-A Recommendation: 91% 46

47 GEOMETRY A Course #221A 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit (Academic) The traditional scope of topics in geometry such as lines, triangles, trigonometry, circles, area, congruence and similarity will be presented with an emphasis on deductive reasoning. Algebraic concepts will be applied while solving geometric problems. Prerequisite: Algebra I-A Recommendation: 83% Algebra I-B Recommendation: 91% GEOMETRY B Course #221B 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit (Academic) The traditional scope of topics in geometry such as lines, triangles, circles, area, congruence and similarity will be presented with an emphasis on deductive reasoning. Algebraic concepts will be applied while solving geometric problems. Prerequisite: Algebra I-B Recommendation: 74% PRACTICAL GEOMETRY Course # periods/cycle/semester 1 credit (General Studies) Students will explore measurement, lines, planes, triangles, congruence, similarity, area, and volume. Students must be recommended by the Special Education Department or the Math Department to take this course. This course is designed for students who have successfully completed Pre-Algebra and Algebra I (GS) or Algebra 1-B. Prerequisite: Students must complete Pre-Algebra, Algebra I (GS) or Algebra 1-B. Strong recommendation of math & special education departments. ALGEBRA II A Course #222 A 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit (Academic) (.25 tech credit) A second year algebra course that covers topics such as: graphing linear and quadratic functions, solving equations, laws of exponents, inequalities, factoring, absolute value, equations involving rational, radical and quadratic expressions, quadratic functions, imaginary and complex numbers and exponential functions. Emphasis on multiple solutions and problem solving will force students to think analytically about abstract and real world applications of each topic. A TI 83 or TI 84 Calculator is REQUIRED for the course. Prerequisite: Geometry A Recommendation: 83% Geometry B Recommendation: 91% ALGEBRA II B Course #222 B 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit (Academic) (.25 tech credit) A second year algebra course that covers topics such as: solving equations, slope, linear functions, graphing linear and quadratic functions, solving systems of equations, laws of exponents, inequalities, factoring, absolute value and solving quadratic equations. Special emphasis is placed on practical applications as they apply to the topic currently being studied. A TI 83 or TI 84 Calculator is REQUIRED for the course. Prerequisite: Geometry Academic. 47

48 ALGEBRA II/TRIGONOMETRY Course #211 6 periods/cycle/semester 1.5 credit (Honors) 3 periods/cycle/semester (.25 tech credit) This 27 week course will cover linear and quadratic equations and inequalities and their graphs, systems of equations, variation and proportion, polynomial expressions and equations, rational expressions and equations, irrational and complex numbers, exponential and logarithmic functions, triangle trigonometry, applications of trigonometry, introduction to graphs of trig functions, trigonometric identities and equations, and applications of trigonometry. A TI 83 or TI 84 Calculator is REQUIRED for the course. Prerequisite: Geometry (Honors) Recommendation: 83% Prerequisite: Geometry A Recommendation: 91% ALGEBRA III/TRIGONOMETRY Course #212 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit (Honors) (.25 tech credit) This course solidifies the fundamentals of high school mathematics while introducing concepts of higher mathematics as an extension of familiar ideas. This course includes a review of Linear and Quadratic Equations, Integrating Geometric with Algebraic Concepts, Circle and Triangle Trigonometry, Functions and their graphs, Exponential functions and Logarithms, Complex Numbers and Polynomial Equations. Throughout the course, applications of mathematics to various fields are stressed. A TI 83 or TI 84 Calculator is REQUIRED for the course. Prerequisite: Algebra II A Recommendation: 83% Algebra II B Recommendation: 91% Algebra II/Trig honors Recommendation: 65% ALGEBRA III/TRIGONOMETRY Course #218 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit (Academic) (.25 tech credit) This course includes an overview of Linear and Quadratic Equations, Integrating Geometric with Algebraic Concepts, Circle and Triangle Trigonometry, Functions and their graphs, Exponential functions and Logarithms, Complex Numbers and Polynomial Equations. Throughout the course applications of mathematics to various fields are stressed. A TI 83 or TI 84 Calculator is REQUIRED for the course. Prerequisite: Algebra II A Recommendation: 74% Algebra II B Recommendation: 83% FINITE MATH Course #233 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit (Honors) (.25 tech credit) Topics in College Math are an overview of several math concepts offered within a variety of freshman college math courses. Topics explored will include Set Theory, Counting Principles, Probability, Statistics, Linear Models and Programming, Systems of Equations and Inequalities, Matrix Theory, Applications for Exponents and Logarithms, and Markov Chains. A TI 83 or TI 84 Calculator is REQUIRED for the course. Prerequisite: Algebra III/Trigonometry Recommendation: 83% Pre-Calculus PRE-CALCULUS Course #214 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit (Honors) (.25 tech credit) The course gives extensive treatment to the study of transcendental functions, trigonometry, rationals, and radical expressions, equations and graphs. The purpose of the course is to prepare students for the AP Calculus 48

49 course. Emphasis will be placed on problem solving and the use of technology within mathematics. A TI 83 or TI 84 Calculator is REQUIRED for the course. Prerequisite: Algebra II/Trigonometry (Honors) Recommendation: 83% Algebra III/Trigonometry (Honors) Recommendation: 83% PRE-CALCULUS Course #215 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit (Academic) (.25 tech credit) This course gives extensive treatment to the study of transcendental functions, trigonometry, rationals, radical expressions, equations and graphs. The purpose of the course is to prepare students for the GVHS Honors Calculus course or a college level Calculus course. Emphasis will be placed on problem solving and the use of technology mathematics. A TI 83 or TI 84 Calculator is REQUIRED for the course. Prerequisite: Algebra III/Trigonometry (Honors) Recommendation: 74% Algebra III/Trigonometry (Academic) Recommendation: 83% CALCULUS Course #213 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit (Honors) (.25 tech credit) This course provides a study of differentiation and integration as a means to study the solution of problems concerning related rates, maximum/minimum, area, and volumes of revolution. A TI 83 or TI 84 Calculator is REQUIRED for the course. Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus (Honors) Recommendation: 74% Pre-Calculus (Academic) Recommendation: 91% AP CALCULUS AB Course #216 6 periods/cycle/semester 1.5 credit (Advanced Placement) (.25 tech credit) Advanced Placement Calculus is a very intense course in Calculus. It is designed to provide students with an opportunity to earn college credit by taking the College Board AB Calculus test. Students will complete the AP curriculum as described by the College Board. A TI 83 or TI 84 Calculator is REQUIRED for the course. Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus (Honors) Recommendation: 83% AP CALCULUS BC Course #237 6 periods/cycle/semester 2 credit (Advanced Placement) (.25 tech credit) Advanced Placement Calculus is a very intense course in Calculus It is designed to provide students with an opportunity to earn college credit by taking both the College Board AB Calculus and BC Calculus test. Students will complete the AP curriculum as described by the College Board. A TI 83 or TI 84 Calculator is REQUIRED for the course. Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus (Honors) Recommendation: 91% MULTI-VARIABLE CALCULUS WITH ADVANCED TOPIC IN MATHEMATICS Course # periods/cycle/semester 1 credit (Advanced Placement) (.25 tech credit) This course is a continuation of the calculus sequence and is intended for students who have successfully completed AP Calculus BC. Students who successfully complete this course should be prepared for advanced college calculus or differential equations. The first part of the course covers vectors and multi-variable calculus 49

50 including functions of several variables, multiple integration and vector analysis in 2 and 3-space. Advanced applications will also be considered and may include the following: selected topics from matrix algebra; modeling applications used in business, science, and economics; or differential equations. Prerequisite: AP Calculus BC Recommendation: 65% PROBABILITY, STATISTICS AND TRIGONOMETRY Course # periods/cycle/semester 1 credit (Academic) (.25 tech credit) This course covers descriptive statistics, elementary probability, probability distributions, estimation, hypothesis testing, and correlation and regression. Emphasis is placed on exploratory data analysis using graphical and numerical techniques. Students explore the requirements for planning and executing a successful unbiased statistical experiment. Probability (experimental and theoretical) is studied as a tool for quantifying chance events and for describing and predicting random outcomes. The concept of sampling and the properties of sampling distributions are studied as a foundation to inferential statistics. The trigonometry portion of the course will include investigation of circular functions and their graphs, triangle trigonometry and area. A TI 83 or TI 84 Calculator is REQUIRED for the course. Prerequisite: Algebra II B Recommendation: 74% AP STATISTICS Course #241 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit (Advanced Placement) (.25 tech credit) Advanced Placement Statistics is offered to students who wish to complete studies equivalent to an introductory, non-calculus-based, college course in statistics. It is designed to provide students with an opportunity to earn college credit by taking the advanced placement test. The course will introduce students to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. The course will follow the Advanced Placement Curriculum. A TI 83 or TI 84 Calculator is REQUIRED for the course. Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus Recommendation: 83% AP COMPUTER SCIENCE A Course # periods/cycle/semester 1 credit (Advanced Placement) (1 tech credit) Advanced Placement Computer Science is designed to be a rigorous, college level course in the computer science field with a strong focus on the Java programming language. The course allows students the opportunity to earn college credit by taking the advanced placement (AP) exam should they earn a high enough score. Students enrolling in this course should already have had experience programming and should show a strong interest in the field of computer programming. Chrome books are unable to support the software necessary for this course and therefor not permitted. Prerequisite: 91% or better in Introduction to Programming AND 83% or better in Honors Algebra II/Trig or 83% OR better in Honors Algebra III/Trig OR 91% or better in Academic Algebra III/Trig INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER PROGRAMMING Course #225 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades 9-12 (Academic) (.5 tech credit) This course provides the students with a background in computer programming. A microcomputer will be used to solve a prescribed set of problems using Java computer language. Students will write programs using variables, if-then statements, and for-next statements. Chrome books are unable to support the software necessary for this course and therefor not permitted. 50

51 Prerequisite: Algebra I SAT PREPARATION* Course # periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades *Course Fee: Students will be expected to purchase a SAT Workbook. Cost $ This course is designed to help students become familiar and comfortable with the format of the verbal section of the new SAT test. The course will cover vocabulary, critical reading strategies needed for the short reading comprehension passages and the long reading selection, and writing skills needed for the essay section of the test. Price for student verbal workbooks for verbal will be $40. In the mathematics portion of this course, students will practice taking the mathematics portion of the SAT. After each practice test, the class will discuss various strategies for taking the test. Students will be shown how various problems intertwine two or three different mathematical concepts. Students should be aware that SAT test problems are based on concepts learned in Algebra I, Geometry and Algebra II. Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra I and Geometry Co-requisite: Algebra II NOTE: The student should have one experience taking the PSAT or SAT before taking this class. KEYSTONE MATHEMATICS WORKSHOP Course #240 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grade This workshop is designed to prepare students for the re-take of the Keystone Algebra I Exam and to better prepare them for further study in Algebra. This workshop will be required and assigned to sophomores and juniors who, after successfully completing Algebra I or Algebra 1-B earn a score of Basic or Below Basic on the Algebra I Keystone Exam. Prerequisite: Completed Algebra I or Completed Algebra 1-B ROBOTICS Course #229 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Grade 9-12 (.5 tech credit) This course will take a hands-on approach to robotics engineering. Students will become familiar with and apply STEM concepts related to computer aided drafting and design (CADD), electronics, programming and manufacturing. Additionally, students will utilize project management, teamwork, and problem-solving skills to create a robotic system that can battle it out against similarly designed systems. Upon completion of the course, students will have gained a fundamental understanding of robotics. Chrome books are unable to support the software necessary for this course and therefor not permitted. 51

52 MUSIC CONCERT BAND Course #935 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades 9-12 (Academic) *Materials fee $5.00 The Garnet Valley Band rehearses three days per week during a selected period. In the fall, the Band supports the football team by performing at home and away games. Along with preparing for the Winter concert, the Band performs in parades, community affairs, and competitions. The innovative field drill and exciting music are learned during Summer Band Camp. An extra practice may be held during the late afternoon after sports practice. In the spring, the Band prepares for its annual band adjudication and Spring Concert with performances at area parades, special events, and graduation. Music ranges from Classic Band Literature to Broadway Show selections to popular favorites. JAGUAR JAZZ BAND Course #936 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades 9-12 Students who participate in the Jaguar Jazz Band will study jazz from its beginning up to current jazz trends. The course emphasis will be on jazz performance styles and fluency in improvisation. All manner of ensembles will be used from combos to a full jazz band. Prerequisite: Participation in either Concert Band or String Ensemble, students must pass an audition to enter Jazz Band. Audition dates are set in February. In order to participate in Band, students must list a band course as a priority on their elective selection card. BAN CHOR I Course #946 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades 9-12 (Academic) For those students who wish to participate in any combination of band, chorus or string ensemble. This course is designed for 9 th and 10 th band and chorus students as well as 9 12 th grade string students who can only fit in a half credit (.5) for their performance ensembles. This course has the same objectives as our band, chorus and string courses. BAN CHOR II Course #947 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades (Academic) The course change will allow all 11 th and 12 th grade instrumental students to continue with symphonic band and study choral music as well. It will provide music opportunities for those students who have limited space in their schedules. CONCERT CHOIR Course #934 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades 9-10 Concert Choir is for students interested in singing and developing vocal musicianship. Participation in Concert Choir requires a year-long commitment, which includes one semester of class and rehearsals during one enhancement period per cycle throughout the year. Concert Choir performs pop, swing, classical and standard 52

53 music selections. The class will also cover music theory, vocal training, and music history. At least two concerts are presented each year along with special appearances, field trips, and competitions. In order to participate in Concert Choir, students must list a chorus course as a priority on their elective selection card. SYMPHONIC CHOIR Course #949 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades Symphonic Choir is for students interested in singing and developing vocal musicianship. Participation in Symphonic Choir requires a year-long commitment which includes one semester of class and rehearsal during one enhancement period per cycle throughout the year. Symphonic Choir performs a variety of challenging works including pop, swing, classical, and standard music selections. The class will also cover more advanced music theory, vocal training, and music history. At least two concerts are presented each year along with special appearances, field trips, and competitions. In order to participate in Symphonic Choir, students must list a chorus course as a priority on their elective selection card. CHAMBER CHOIR Course #950 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades This class is for advanced choral students who have exceptional vocal talent. Students must meet audition requirements. ORCHESTRA Course #937 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades 9-12 (Academic) Orchestra is for any student who plays, or wishes to play, a bowed string instrument. Performances include winter and spring concerts, performances in the community, combined performances with band or chorus, and graduation. GUITAR I Course #930 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades 9-12 *Materials fee $5.00 This course is designed for the student who has an interest in music but little or no experience. Topics to be covered and to participate in are: music reading, guitar theory, and history, as well as playing the guitar. Activities will include individual and group performance. GUITAR II Course #956 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades Guitar II is a continuation of Guitar I. Students will read music notation in various positions rather than only one position, as in Guitar I. This will expand their understanding of music theory and its application to the guitar. Students will improvise and compose songs/melodies utilizing advanced scales, sequences, and guitar techniques as opposed to basic scales in Guitar I. Students will apply chords, rhythms, and other concepts to real-world songs in various styles. GUITAR ENSEMBLE Course #932 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit 53

54 Grade (Academic) *Materials fee $5.00 This is a performance-oriented course whose students have surpassed the skills of Guitar II. Emphasis will be placed on note reading, mid-level fret chording, medium-to-medium advanced performance level music. Prerequisite: Guitar I. Recommendation: 74% KEYBOARD I Course #931 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades 9-12 *Materials fee $5.00 This course is designed for the student who has an interest in music but little or no formal training or experience. The students will learn to play the piano/keyboard, to read music and to understand music theory. KEYBOARD II Course #954 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades 9-12 *Materials fee $5.00 Students will gain a greater understanding of music through studying keyboard techniques. Students will continue to develop their ability to read music and play repertoire on the piano. Advanced concept pieces including improve and harmonization will be studied. The pre-requisites are Keyboard I and /or permission of the department. Prerequisites: Keyboard I or permission from Instructor/department. MUSIC THEORY Course # periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades 9-12 (Academic) (.5 tech credit) This course is designed for the student who has an interest in music and would like to pursue it at the college level. This course will offer the basics in music composition and theoretical and practical usage with music technology. MUSIC THEORY II Course # periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades (Academic) Course is a continuation of Music Theory. Students will apply knowledge gained in Music Theory to more advanced topics in harmony, melody, form, and composition. Prerequisite: Music Theory. Recommendation: 91% AP MUSIC THEORY Course # periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Grades (.5 tech credit) This course is designed for the student who plans to continue in music after high school. This course will offer college level music theory, ear training and music technology. The course will include auditioning at PMEA events and also to colleges and universities. All students will take the AP Music exam in May. All students will be responsible to perform a recital at the end of the course. Prerequisite: Songwriting. Recommendation: 91% INTRODUCTION TO MUSICAL THEATER Course # periods/cycle/semester.5 credit 54

55 Grades 9-12 This class will provide an introduction to vocal performance, dance Broadway music, and acting for musicals. Students will study various vocal styles, audition skills, stagecraft, backstage production techniques, and performance techniques. These artistic mediums also include life skills, time management, and social skills. This class can be taken in conjunction with Acting classes, for the student interested in performing on stage or in college. ADVANCED MUSICAL THEATER Course # periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades This course is designed for the student who has a profound interest in the performing arts and may wish to pursue this as a career or vocation. Students will have an opportunity to direct their peers in various scenes and learn all aspects of behind the scenes direction and participation. Students will direct and produce a musical as a final project. Prerequisite: Introduction to Musical Theater Workshop. SYMPHONIC BAND Course # periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades (Honors) Course is for advanced instrument students who easily master concert band material. Students will perform advanced band literature and will develop music skills in accordance to PMEA regional levels. An audition is required. AUDIO ENGINEERING I Course #957 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades 9-12 Audio Engineering is one of the largest growing industries in the music business. Overview of the recording process includes basic studio electronics and acoustic principles, waveform properties, microphone concepts and placement techniques, studio set up and signal flow, console theory, signal processing concepts, multi-track principles and operation, and an overview of mixing and editing. Basic EQ is also studied in this course. This course will have real time expectations through recording and sound work. 55

56 PHYSICAL EDUCATION Every student will be scheduled for.50 physical education credit each year. All students are required to have a change of clothing to participate, which consists of: Athletic shirt, shorts and sneakers PHYSICAL EDUCATION 9/10 Course #031 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grade 9/10 This course provides an emphasis on lifelong fitness through the use of our four Fitness components; cardiovascular endurance, muscular endurance, muscular strength, and flexibility. This course also provides opportunities to develop cooperation, communication and team sportsmanship through various activities like fitness circuits, cooperative games, yoga, frisbee, creative games, tennis, badminton, volleyball, football and soccer. PHYSICAL EDUCATION 11/12 Course #037 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grade 11/12 This course will allow students to pursue a lifetime of healthful physical activity, a physically literate individual will; Demonstrate competency in a variety of motor skills and movement patterns Apply knowledge of concepts, principles, strategies and tactics related of movement and performance Maintain a health-enhancing level of physical activity and fitness Exhibit responsible personal and social behavior that respects self and others Recognize the value of physical activity for health, enjoyment, challenge, self-expression and/or social interaction. Activities may include: Creative games, football, speedball, soccer, tennis, archery, team handball, badminton, volleyball, floor hockey, adventure activities, ultimate frisbee, basketball and softball. ADVANCED PERSONAL FITNESS Course #035 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades (can be taken in lieu of PE) (.5 tech credit) The evolution of Movement and Mobility System continues to progress at an exponential rate. Students will learn how to stabilize their spine in a braced, well-organized position; how to maintain good posture during loaded, dynamic movements; and how to create stability in their joints to generate maximum force, power and speed. Students will realize that they can immediately apply the movements principles taught in class to the actions of sports and life. These movement principles are practiced in a safe, controlled environment (the weight room) using fundamental (transferable) strength and conditioning movements. Students must have achieved a final grade of an A in physical education in the past year and have PE department approval. The course location will be in the outdoor weight room. This course replaces the regular Physical Education class. Students will receive.5 Tech Credit INDIVIDUALIZED/ADAPTED PHYSICAL EDUCATION Course #041 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades

57 This course is designed for those students who have special needs, physical injuries or conditions that would inhibit full participation in regular physical education. The course will individualize physical education and may include; weight management, cardiovascular endurance, strength, flexibility, rehabilitation from injury, or any other need necessary. Life-long fitness will be emphasized with use of the fitness center, fitness circuits, fitness walks, yoga and occasional recreational activities. Select students will keep a fitness progress journal that will be reviewed with instructor regularly. Prerequisite: Departmental, doctor recommended. HIGHWAY SAFETY Course #039 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades Driving a motor vehicle is one of the biggest responsibilities of your life! This course will provide you with the capabilities necessary for entry into the highway traffic system as vehicle operators. It will help to develop and maintain a proper attitude about the responsibilities of defensive driving. It will also provide you with the knowledge and thought process that will enable you to make wise decisions in driving situations. This course will meet the state s requirement of 30 classroom instructional hours. The combination of Highway Safety along with Drivers Education (in the car training) enables most students to receive a lower insurance rate and to obtain a senior license at age 17 ½. This class will also provide life skill activities such as; car maintenance skills, car purchasing and automobile insurance information. Students will be exposed to driving scenarios by using driver simulators. DRIVERS EDUCATION - (6 hours) Behind the Wheel Training The behind the wheel instruction is available through the A&B Driving School. The instructors at A&B Driving School are certified to administer the road test. There is a fee for this instruction. STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING Course # periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades (Can be taken in lieu of Physical Education) This course is designed to offer students an in-depth look into the areas of strength and conditioning. Exploration of various techniques and equipment will be the foundation of this course. Students will learn to design individual strength programs, and establish life long fitness habits, and/or correct form and movement of exercises. Students will be required to demonstrate and participate in activities that will challenge them both mentally and physically, while safety procedures are emphasized. Students may be asked to participate in the Functional Movement Screening. Form and movement are essential for improved performance and injury prevention. SPORTS AROUND THE WORLD Course # periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades (Can be taken in lieu of Physical Education) This course is designed for students who want to increase their knowledge of sports that are played around the world. Students will not only learn the rules, skills and history of the selected activities, but they will also learn how to teach these activities to various age groups around the district. Class size students due to nature of the sports. DANCE & LIFETIME FITNESS Course # periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades (Can be taken in lieu of Physical Education) This course is designed for students who wish to participate in lifetime activities not covered in the regular curriculum. Activities may include yoga, pilates, budokon, circuit and interval workouts, rock climbing, golf, hiking and dance. Throughout the semester students will be focused on self-improvement, cooperative group units, and most importantly finding a form of exercise that can be done for the rest of their lives. 57

58 HEALTH WELLNESS ISSUES Course #047 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grade 9-12 (Required for graduation) This course is recommended for students entering 9 th or 10 th grade. The development of self-responsibility for a lifestyle, which emphasizes healthful behaviors and responsible decision-making techniques, will be encouraged. Strategies that promote positive mental, physical, and social well-being will be an integral part of this course. This course provides personal planning for a healthy lifestyle and the effects on the individual and society. The course includes information and discussions on mental health, communication and relationships, substance abuse, eating disorders, nutrition, the human life cycle, sexuality, and sexually transmitted diseases. Responsible decision-making in all aspects of wellness is the basis of this course. This course is a requirement for graduation. EMERGENCY CARE Course #040 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades (Elective) Interested in the medical field? This course is a good start! The course is designed for 9-12th grade students and will offer basic anatomy and physiology of specific body systems and their importance to sustain life. Information will be presented that will be necessary for students to make an informal decision related to organ and tissue donation. First aid, emergency care, and CPR will be presented. Practical application of skills will involve student participation. Specific emergency situations will be staged involving trauma and illnesses. Students will demonstrate proper care and procedures. Students may have the opportunity to be certified in First Aid/CPR/AED by the American Red Cross. A fee is charged for American Red Cross certification. SPORTS MEDICINE Course #048 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades (Elective) In this Sports Medicine course, students will explore the practical application of the knowledge and skills in this rapidly growing health care profession. The course of study will expose the students to prevention, evaluation, treatment, and rehabilitation of athletic injuries and illnesses. Instruction focuses on human anatomy, especially muscles, joints, bones, tendons, and ligaments; the skills the students are taught have a direct application to those students who want to pursue a health care profession. ADVANCED HEALTH & WELLNESS ISSUES Course #046 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades (Elective) This course is designed for juniors and seniors who wish to increase their knowledge of many health issues including diseases, prevention of STD s and HIV, nutrition, life-long fitness, and choices in life styles. This course does not take the place of wellness. Students will research and present a variety of health topics, learn to read labels on food packages, research and discuss global issues and participate in class discussions. Prerequisite: Wellness Recommendation: 74% ADAPTED WELLNESS Course # periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades 9-12 (Elective) This course is designed to teach and guide students into a deeper look at health and wellness. Topics/Units will be broken down, reviewed and re-taught as needed throughout the course. Students will learn in a small group setting. Hands-on instruction will be used to enhance topics and units discussed. Areas of study are social relationships, personal care and hygiene, nutrition, safety and first aid, sexuality, and fitness. This course will help the students to develop personal skills that will allow them to become independent adults. EXERCISE THERAPY & SPORTS SCIENCE Course #0665 See page 81 for more information 58

59 SCIENCE The Science Department provides a series of courses designed to train students in the fundamental principles of modern science. Whether planning a career in the sciences or not, the appropriate selection of courses will assist the student in preparing to function as a more informed citizen in a technological society. Science courses vary in content and level of difficulty. All courses are by departmental recommendation. Many courses have pre-requisites and form a sequential program. Biology I is a prerequisite for all science courses beyond Earth and Space Science. The student who is interested in attending college is strongly encouraged to complete Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and consider taking a higher-level science elective. Students who wish to take Career Prep courses must be recommended by their teachers. SCIENCE PROGRAM Honors Academic General Studies 9 th Biology I (311) Biology (321) Earth & Space (330) 10 th Chemistry I (313) Chemistry I (323) Chemistry in Our World (329) Biology I (331) 11 th Physics I (315) Anatomy & Physiology (312) AP Biology (317) AP Chemistry (318) AP Physics (327) AP Environmental Science (333) Intro to Engineering (319) Evolutionary Biology & the Environment (316) Oceanography & Marine Biology (336) Organic Chemistry (338) Chemistry I (323) Environmental Science (324) Anatomy & Physiology (322) Physics I (325) Natural Disasters (328) Intro to Engineering (319) Oceanography & Marine Biology (336) Earth & Space (320) Organic Chemistry (338) Environmenta l Science (334) Lab Physical Science (332) Anatomy & Physiology (335) 12 th Physics I (315) Anatomy & Physiology (312) AP Bio (317) AP Chemistry (318) AP Physics (327) AP Environmental Science (333) Intro to Engineering (319) Evolutionary Biology & the Environment (316) Oceanography & Marine Biology (336) Natural Disasters (328) Organic Chemistry (338) Environmental Science (324) Physics I (325) Anatomy & Physiology (322) Natural Disasters (328) Chemistry in Our World (329) Oceanography & Marine Biology (336) Earth & Space (320) Organic Chemistry (338) Lab Physical Science (332) Environmenta l Science (334) Anatomy & Physiology (335) (Recommended Sequence of Science Courses) 59

60 EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE I Course #320 6 periods/cycle/sem. 1 credit Grade 9 (Academic) Earth and Space Science students develop an understanding of the student s natural surrounding and Earth Systems Science. In the meteorology unit, students will study storms, fronts, clouds, and weather mapping basics. In astronomy, students will learn stellar evolution, planet characteristics, and basic principles of the universe. In geology, students will learn about general geological processes, rocks and minerals, and natural disasters. Students will be able to apply geological principles to local area. Prerequisite: 8th Grade Science. Recommendation: C Ninth grade students may be recommended for General Studies EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE if they meet the criteria established for that course. EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE I Course #330 6 periods/cycle/sem 1 credit Grade 9 (General Studies) Earth and Space Science studies three main areas of earth science: meteorology, astronomy and geology. Basic science skills, such as scientific method, measurement, graphing, interpretation of data and graphs, and scientific calculations will be emphasized and mastered. More specific topics of study will include plate tectonics, minerals and rock, geologic time, local and national weather, natural resources, climate and climate change. While the course will cover topics specific to earth science, there will be connections made to science skills and biology content in order to better prepare the students for the Biology Keystone exam. Prerequisite: 8 th Grade science BIOLOGY I Course #311 6 periods/cycle/sem. 1 credit Grade 9-10 (Honors) Biology is a systematic study, which shows the relationship of living things, the evolution of life through various stages of complexity, and the great diversity of living organisms. Biology includes biochemistry, genetics, cellular biology, anatomy, physiology and taxonomy. Emphasis will be on laboratory skills and critical thinking skills using the scientific method, evolution, ecology and the environment. BIOLOGY I Course #321 6 periods/cycle/sem. 1 credit Grade 9-10 (Academic) This course is designed to provide academic students with the essential fundamentals of the biological sciences. Topics include biochemistry, cellular biology, genetics, evolution, and taxonomy. Laboratory work will be an integral part of the course. Use of the scientific method and critical thinking will be emphasized. BIOLOGY I Course #331 6 periods/cycle/sem. 1 credit Grade 10 (General Studies) This Biology I course is an introductory level course designed to provide students with a basic understanding of life science. Topics will range from the characteristics shared by living things to evolution and taxonomy. Cellular-molecular biology and genetics will also be an integral part of this course. The laboratory setting will be utilized to help students grasp the key concepts. Prerequisite: Earth and Space. 60

61 ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY Course #312 6 periods/cycle/sem. 1 credit Grades (Honors) Anatomy and Physiology is a laboratory-oriented continuation and enhancement of biological concepts begun in Biology I with emphasis on human body systems. Topics of study include form and function of the human body, genetics, and histology. Students should be aware that laboratory and organ dissection techniques are an integral part of this process. Students who are considering careers in biology, health care, and medicine are encouraged to take this course. Prerequisite: Biology I Honors. Recommendation: 83% Chemistry I Honors: Recommendation: 83% ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY Course #322 6 periods/cycle/sem. 1 credit Grade (Academic) Anatomy and Physiology is a laboratory-oriented continuation and enhancement of biological concepts begun in Biology I with emphasis on human body systems. Topics of study include form and function of the human body, genetics, and histology. Students should be aware that laboratory and organ dissection techniques are an integral part of this process. Students who are considering careers in biology, health care, and medicine are encouraged to take this course. Prerequisite: Biology I (Academic) Chemistry I (Honors or Academic) Recommendation is to pass the course ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY Course #335 6 periods/cycle/sem. 1 credit Grades (General Studies) This course will provide students with a more in depth understanding of human biology. The focus of the course will be human anatomy and physiology, but will also include mammal and primate evolution as well as human origins. Thorough coverage of all the human body systems will take place in this course. Students considering employment in the health care field should benefit greatly from this course. AP BIOLOGY Course #317 6 periods/cycle/yr. 2 credits Grades (.5 tech credit) The course is designed to be the equivalent of a college introductory biology course. The course aims to provide students with the conceptual framework, experimental design and analysis skills, factual knowledge and analytical skills necessary to deal critically with the rapidly changing science of biology. Four big ideas in the class are evolution, biological systems: molecules and energy dynamics, living systems: storing, receiving, transmitting and responding to information and interactions between biological systems. Summer reading is required. Prerequisite: Biology I Honors Recommendation: 91% Prerequisite: Chemistry I Honors. Recommendation: 91% CHEMISTRY I Course #313 6 periods/cycle/sem. 1 credit Grades (Honors) This course uses a laboratory-oriented, discover-and-content approach. The development of critical thinking skills, attitudes, and concepts is a major goal of this course. It includes the study of chemical measurement, elements, compounds, chemical formulas, molarity, kinetic molecular theory, stoichiometry, atomic theory and structure, periodicity, energetics of phase changes, solutions, and ionic equilibria. Many topics and activities are studied on an independent study basis. 61

62 Prerequisite: Geometry Honors Recommendation: 83% Prerequisite: Biology I Honors Recommendation: 83% CHEMISTRY I Course #323 6 periods/cycle/sem. 1 credit Grades (Academic) This course is designed to show how chemical principles and concepts are developed from experimental observations and data. It includes the study of measurement and quantitative relationships, matter and its changes, atomic theory and structure, periodic law, chemical composition, gases, liquids, solids, solutions, acids, bases, salts, and chemical equations. Prerequisite: Biology I Academic & Geometry A Recommendation: 74% CHEMISTRY IN OUR WORLD Course #329 6 periods/cycle/sem. 1 credit Grades (Academic) The purpose of this course is to explore the many ways in which Chemistry affects our everyday lives. The basic concepts of chemistry will be introduced and the applications explored. The course will cover matter, atoms and the Periodic Table, bonding, chemical reactions, solutions, acids and bases, and organic chemistry. The course will have a significant lab component and will also encompass several opportunities for independent study. Prerequisite: Biology I Academic Recommendation: 74% AP CHEMISTRY Course #318 6 periods/cycle/yr. 2 credits Grades (.5 tech credit) The AP Chemistry course is designed to be the equivalent of a general chemistry course undertaken by first year undergraduates. It, therefore, requires the same level of conceptual comprehension, problem-solving ability, and laboratory skills as a college course. A high degree of rigor is required and students should be willing to dedicate themselves to the necessary hard work. Students will take this course as a second year chemistry course after Honors Chemistry. Successful completion of the AP Chemistry course and a good grade on the AP Chemistry exam may enable students to claim credit for an entire year of college chemistry. Prerequisite: Chemistry Honors Recommendation: 91% Alegbra II / Trigonometry Recommendation: 91% PHYSICS I Course #315 6 periods/cycle/sem. 1 credit Grades (Honors) This course is for students who want to learn, desire a challenge, and want to have fun in the process! Physics explains the world around us. This course contains, but is not limited to the following topics: dynamics, kinematics, momentum, energy, optics, sound, and electricity and magnetism. Students will be expected to work in groups to develop and apply concepts. The use of algebra and trigonometry will be extensive in problem solving. Prerequisite: Algebra II/Trig Recommendation: 83% Algebra III/Trig Honors Recommendation: 91% PHYSICS I Course #325 6 periods/cycle/sem. 1 credit Grades (Academic) 62

63 Physics explains the world around us. This course focuses on the concepts and ideas of physics placing less emphasis on the rigorous problem solving associated with honors physics. This course is designed for a student who wishes to understand how and why and desires to "think and explain". Laboratory experiences, demonstrations, class participation, and problem solving will be used to explore such topics as force, motion, energy, sound, light, heat, electricity and magnetism. Students will be expected to work in groups to develop and apply concepts. Prerequisite: Geometry A Recommendation: 74% Co-requisite: Algebra II INTRODUCTION TO ENGINEERING Course #319 6 periods/cycle/sem. 1 credit Grades (Honors) This course is designed to blend engineering management and problem-solving methods with topics in applied physics. Students will investigate the use of statics and strength of materials, fluid mechanics and dynamics, thermodynamics and any topic that is directed by student interest. This is a project-centered course where students will be working as members of an engineering team. There is a $25 laboratory fee to partially defray the cost of materials for the course. Prerequisite: Physics (Honors) Recommendation: 83% Physics (Academic) Recommendation: 91% Co-requisite: Algebra III/Trig, Topics in College Math Recommendation: 83% AP PHYSICS C MECHANICS AND E & M Course #327 6 periods/cycle/yr. 2 credits Grades (.5 tech credit) This course serves as a foundation for students that have an interest in majoring in the physical sciences or engineering. Topics of this course include mechanics, and electricity and magnetism with about equal emphasis for these two areas. The sequence is intensive and highly analytical. Prior work in Calculus is recommended. Students will be expected to work in groups to develop and apply concepts. Prerequisite: Honors Physics Recommendation: 91% Co-requisite: Calculus (AP preferred) LAB PHYSICAL SCIENCE Course #332 6 periods/cycle/sem. 1 credit Grades (General Studies) The Lab Physical Science course combines physics and chemistry to give students a basic introduction to the physical sciences. A variety of concepts is covered, including science skills, forces, motion, work, simple machines, energy, matter, atoms, and chemical reactions. Students will explore the mathematical relationships involved in science, as well as engaging in lab based activities to enhance their understanding of certain concepts. The content is appropriately paced and tailored to meet students instructional needs and their interests, where applicable. Prerequisite: Biology I ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE Course #324 6 periods/cycle/sem. 1 credit Grades (Academic) This course introduces students to the major ecological concepts and the environmental issues that affect the world in which they live. Students will learn about technological developments that have created problems as well as those that solve problems. In addition to basic ecological concept, other topics discussed will be the atmosphere, agriculture, water and energy. Students will do laboratory work, hands-on activities, case studies and library research. 63

64 Prerequisite: Biology I ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE Course #334 6 periods/cycles/sem. 1 credit Grades (General Studies) This course will introduce students to some of the major environmental issues of the 21 st century. Students will first develop an understanding of basic ecological concepts. Then, students will learn how human activities and technologies have impacted the environments, including the atmosphere, agriculture, water, energy, and more. Students will explore concepts using laboratory work, hands-on activities, case studies and current events. Writing and technology will be integrated throughout the course. Prerequisites: Biology I AP ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE Course #333 6 periods/cycle/yr. 2 credits Grades The AP Environmental Science course is a college-level course designed to provide students with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world, to identify and analyze environmental problems both natural and human-made, to evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and to examine alternative solutions for resolving and/or preventing them. Prerequisite: Biology I Honors Recommendation: 83% Prerequisite: Chemistry I Honors Recommendation: 83% NATURAL DISASTERS Course #328 6 periods/cycle/sem. 1 credit Grades (Academic) In this course, students will explore many of the geologic and atmospheric processes responsible for natural hazards, including earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, tornadoes, hurricanes, mass extinction events (asteroid impacts), and the death of the sun. Students will gain an understanding of practical ways to minimize the effects of natural disasters and mitigate the effects in areas where they are likely to occur in their own life. The course is designed to engage students with real world events as they occur. There is no textbook, and content is primarily through online materials and current events. This is an introductory science course open to all academic and honors students. There are no prerequisites. EVOLUTIONARY BIOLOGY AND THE ENVIRONMENT Course #316 6 periods/cycle/sem. 1 credit Grades (Honors) This course is designed for honors students interested in how living things interact with and affect their environment. Included are units in natural selection, paleontology, genetic engineering, microbiology, botany, zoology, comparative anatomy, and ecology. An online textbook has been designed by the instructors specifically for this course. Book clubs and literature circles are also important parts of the course. Students who do not have room for AP Biology can still investigate advanced principles of biology here and learn advanced lab techniques especially in the fields of genetics and animal dissection. Prerequisite: Biology I Honors Recommendation: 83% Prerequisite: Chemistry I Honors OCEANOGRAPHY AND MARINE BIOLOGY Course #336 6 periods/cycle/sem. 1 credit Grades (Academic) 64

65 Oceanography and Marine Biology is an introductory course that will combine aspects of earth science and biology while also discussing the relationships to other areas of science such as chemistry and physics. The class will study how the ocean works, properties of sea water, currents, and many of the ecosystems and organisms found in the oceans. Students will also look at interactions between various parts of the oceans and terrestrial parts of the planet. The course will include current environmental threats facing the ocean such as global warming, ocean acidification, overfishing and coastal pollution. Prerequisite: Biology I (Academic) Recommendation: 74% KEYSTONE BIOLOGY WORKSHOP Course # K321 3 periods/cycle/sem..5 credit Grades Students in grades 10, or 11 who have not shown proficiency on the Keystone Exam will be scheduled for this course as preparation for a retest of the Biology Keystone Exam. The curriculum will focus on topics included in both Module 1 and 2 of the exam including Scientific Method, Chemical Basis of Life, Bioenergetics, Homeostasis and Transport, Cell Growth, Genetics, Evolution and Ecology. INTRODUCTION TO ORGANIC CHEMISTRY Course #338 6 periods/cycle/sem. 1 credit Grades (Honors) This is a second year course that relies on a thorough understanding of general chemical principles. Organic chemistry is the study of carbon compounds and this course will introduce students to some of the different types of organic compounds and their structural features. It will also give students a basic understanding of organic reactions and their mechanisms. Students will realize the importance of organic chemistry though their study of its application in their daily lives. Students will investigate the chemistry of smells and flavors, pigments and dyes, and some common pharmaceuticals. They will discover the role nylon played in World War II and the fashion world, and they will be able to study the chemistry of some biological molecules. The course focuses on the underlying principles of organic chemistry and encourages critical thinking, problem solving, and independent study. Prerequisite: Chemistry I Honors Recommendation: 83% Prerequisite: Chemistry Academic Recommendation: 91% INTRODUCTION TO ASTRONOMY Course #339 6 periods/cycle/sem. 1 credit Grades (Academic) This course is centered on the students working in different teams to evaluate a set of data to determine the properties of another star system and its accompanying planets. Through step-by-step exercises, students will become self made experts in the field using the same techniques as astronomers out in the field today. Additionally, they will have to evaluate the planets based on atmosphere and geologic properties, and the potential for life on those planets. Prerequisite: Algebra II Recommendation: 83% 65

66 SOCIAL SCIENCE "Not to know what happened before one was born is to remain a child." -Cicero The Social Studies curriculum is organized to enable students to discover the past, understand the present, and explore the future by studying various areas of the social sciences. Human ideals and institutions are constantly changing and the progress of society depends upon the speed and skill with which its members learn to affect the necessary changes. A study of Non-Western Cultures, Modern Civilization, United States History, Political Science, Economics, Psychology, and Sociology will result in a better understanding of the interdependence of peoples while also instilling the ideals that our democratic institutions are to be cherished, preserved, and improved. SOCIAL SCIENCE PROGRAM (Recommended Sequence of Social Science Courses AP Honors Academic General Studies 9 th 10 th 11 th 12th AP European AP US History AP Gov t & History (418) (414) Politics (415) ATP Social Modern US History (412) Political Science Studies (010S) or Civilization (411) (413) Non-Western Civilization (410) Non-Western Western US History (422) Political Science Cultures (420) Non-Western Civilization (430) Civilization (421) Western Civilization (431) US History (432) (423) Political Science (433) Electives: Electives: Int l Relations (416) Current Issues (417) Sociology and Sport (419) Int l Relations (416) History and Media (439) Invitation to Psychology (424) AP Macroeconomics (436) AP Microeconomics (438) AP Psychology (437) History and Media 66

67 NON-WESTERN CULTURES This course is designed to expose the students to distant cultures of the world. Our units of study include the Middle East, Africa, South Asia, and East Asia. In each unit, emphasis is placed on geography, culture, brief historical context, and current issues of the region. The aim is to give students a broad understanding of the world s modern civilizations to help them participate in today s global society. 9TH GRADE CHALLENGE (ATP) (SOCIAL STUDIES) Course #010S 6 periods/cycle/year 1 credit Grades 9 The 9 th Grade Challenge Social Studies class is designed for gifted students. This course exposes students to a variety of Non-Western cultures through the comprehension of higher level informational texts. Students study the patterns of civilization as they evolve in Asia, Africa and the Middle East. A major focus will be placed on government, geography, society, customs, religion, global current events and economics. Students read historical novels, poems, primary sources and other informational pieces that represent the cultures and geographic regions studied. Students should expect extensive writing and research assignments. A major emphasis will be placed on critical thinking, analytical skills, creativity, problem-solving, and collaborative learning. HONORS NON-WESTERN CULTURES Course #410 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Grade 9 Students should expect class discussions, collaborative work, nightly assignments, simulations and direct instruction. Integrative technology is an important component to this course. Student s geographic skills will be honed with in-depth map work. They are also expected to stay well-informed of global current events. Special attention will be given to the development of higher-level writing skills. Students will receive access to our online textbook and supplemental materials will be used extensively (primary source documents, works of fiction, documentaries, biographies, etc.). Long term research projects will be assigned. Prerequisite: 8 th grade U.S. History Recommendation: 92% Students will be placed based on completion of 8th grade course, recommended grade and teacher recommendation. ACADEMIC NON-WESTERN CULTURES Course #420 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Grade 9 Students should expect a wide variety of classroom activities, including but not limited to: simulations, direct instruction, group work, computer projects, and independent assignments. Students will learn, review, and then implement basic geographic skills with unit specific map labeling. Current events are an important part of this class, and students will be expected to be aware of important global events. Students will receive access to our online textbook and supplemental materials will be used regularly (primary source documents, works of fiction, documentaries, biographies, etc.). Long term research projects may be assigned. GENERAL STUDIES NON-WESTERN CULTURES Grade 9 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Ninth grade students may be recommended for General Studies Non-Western Cultures if they meet the criteria established for that course. See page 3. 67

68 MODERN CIVILIZATION This course will follow the history of Modern Civilization from the innovations of Early and Classical Civilizations to the early 20th century. Students will be exposed to a variety of lessons that discuss the innovations and contributions of each culture in areas such as: art, literature, politics, philosophy, economics, culture, religion, geography, and conflict. In addition, this course heavily emphasizes the Five Standards of Historical Thinking: Chronological Thinking, Historical Comprehension, Historical Analysis and Interpretation, Historical Research Capabilities, and Historical Issues-Analysis and Decision-Making. HONORS MODERN CIVILIZATION Course #411 6 periods/cycle/sem. 1 credit Grade 10 Students should expect a wide variety of classroom activities including simulations: direct instruction, group work, computer projects, and independent assignments. Special attention will be given to primary source documents, historical interpretation, proper citation methods, and historical maps. Outside readings including works of philosophy, historical articles, biographies and literary pieces will be assigned. In addition to the regular course work, students will write a 6-8 page thesis-driven research paper on a topic related to Modern Civilization history. Prerequisite: NWC Honors Prerequisite: NWC Academic Recommendation: 83% with teacher recommendation Recommendation: 92% with teacher recommendation ACADEMIC MODERN CIVILIZATION Course #421 6 periods/cycle/sem. 1 credit Grade 10 Students should expect a wide variety of classroom activities, including but not limited to: simulations, direct instruction, group work, computer projects, and independent assignments. Students will learn to read historical maps, timelines and primary sources. Outside readings including articles, biographies and literary pieces will be assigned. Students are required to complete a 5-8 page research paper on a topic related to Modern Civilization history. GENERAL STUDIES MODERN CIVILIZATION Grade 10 6 periods/cycle/sem. 1 credit Tenth grade students may be recommended for General Studies Modern Civilization if they meet the criteria established for that course. See page 3. UNITED STATES HISTORY This course covers modern American history with an emphasis on domestic & foreign policy. Both areas are covered extensively with interest upon political, socio-economic and military events with analysis of both short and long-term significance to the course of events of the American experience. Units of study include Progressivism, Imperialism, World War I, the Roaring 1920s, the Great Depression, World War II, the Cold War, the Civil Rights Movements, the Vietnam War, the 1960s, the 1970s, the Reagan Revolution and present day (up to the September 11th attacks). The course is taught primarily in a thematic sequence in matching chronological order. All three phases use the same text and significant non-text enrichment should be expected to round off the course of study. HONORS UNITED STATES HISTORY Course #412 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Grade 11 This course includes major political, socio-economic and military aspects of American history from the late 19th through the early 21st centuries. Significant use of primary source material supplements the text. Students should expect to read and write in class on a daily basis. An 8-10 page research paper culminates the course of study. Prerequisite: Modern Civilizations Honors Prerequisite: Modern Civilizations Academic ACADEMIC UNITED STATES HISTORY Recommendation: 83% with teacher recommendation Recommendation: 92% with teacher recommendation 68

69 Course #422 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Grade 11 This course deals with the major developments of the last century. Reading and extensive writing assignments are used as well as tasks that involve art and music. Group activities and other cooperative learning strategies are employed. Assessments are based on a combination of multiple choice questions, essays and projects. Homework should be expected on a daily basis. A 6-8 page research paper is required. GENERAL STUDIES UNITED STATES HISTORY Grade 11 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Eleventh grade students may be recommended for General Studies U.S. History if they meet the criteria established for the course. See page 3. POLITICAL SCIENCE This course studies the origin of the United States government, analyzes the Articles of Confederation and the Constitution, reviews the three branches of government and federal bureaucracy, and investigates the role of the media in the political process. Detailed following of current events is vital. The goal of the course is to provide students with the necessary skills to participate in the political process. Ultimately, students should understand the duties of being an effective, active, and responsible citizen. HONORS POLITICAL SCIENCE Course #413 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Grade 12 Students must understand that participating and following current events is a major part of this course. Assessments consist of essays, short answer, multiple choice, true/false, and matching. Students are required to execute oral reports. Technology is an important part to the learning activities, so students must have access to a computer, printer, and their Garnet Valley issued H:drive or Google account. A 8-10 page research paper is a requirement for the class. A variety of projects will be required throughout the course. Prerequisite: United States History Honors Prerequisite: United States History Academic Recommendation: 83% with teacher recommendation Recommendation: 92% with teacher recommendation ACADEMIC POLITICAL SCIENCE Course #423 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Grade 12 Each unit will contain a variety of assessments to determine the students understanding of material - quizzes, tests (multiple choice, matching, short answer), daily homework tasks. Current events are an important part of this class, and students will be expected to be aware of important national political events. Students will be expected to write an 6-8 page research paper. GENERAL STUDIES POLITICAL SCIENCE Grade 12 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Twelfth grade students may be recommended for General Studies POLITICAL SCIENCE if they meet the criteria established for that course. See page 3. ADVANCED PLACEMENT PROGRAM The Advanced Placement Social Studies Program at Garnet Valley High School is designed to give students an opportunity to sample a taste of college work while still in high school. Successful completion of the course(s) and the advanced placement examination may result in college credit for the student. Students who elect to take the Advanced Placement Examination are required to pay the test fee. Students who wish to schedule advanced placement courses must obtain departmental approval. AP EUROPEAN HISTORY Course #418 6 periods/cycle/semester credits 69

70 Grade 10 (AP) 3 periods/cycle/semester 2 This course is a very demanding course of study which includes a detailed understanding of major political, socioeconomic and military themes of European history from 1300 to the near present. This writing enriched course is intensive in nature, and will present demands upon the student which are equivalent to a college level course. Overall, this course will involve more work than a typical Honors level course. Independent work will make up the vast majority of curriculum requirements. The primary method of instruction is lecture to mimic a true freshman college experience. Prerequisite: ATP Prerequisite: NWC Honors Recommendation: 83% with teacher recommendation Recommendation: 92% with teacher recommendation AP UNITED STATES HISTORY Course #414 6 periods/cycle/semester credits Grades (AP) 3 periods/cycle semester 2 (.25 tech credit) This course is a college level course that is designed to provide students with advanced analytical skills and content knowledge necessary to deal critically with major themes in the history of the United States of America from 1492 to the present. The course is presented through lectures, small group activities and group discussions. Students enrolled in this course should expect to write extensively inside and outside of class and should be prepared to read and analyze texts written at a college level. Several research papers and projects are included as part of the students assessment for the course, as well as tests and quizzes. Prerequisite: AP Euro Prerequisite: Modern Civilizations Honors Recommendation: 83% with teacher recommendation Recommendation: 92% with teacher recommendation AP UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS Course #415 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Grade 12 (AP) The AP United States Government and Politics program is designed to give students an in depth study of government and politics in the U.S. This course requires a strong and working knowledge of U.S. history. Knowledge of critical concepts will be learned and applied in this course. The course will also allow students to become familiar with the various institutions, groups, beliefs, philosophies, and ideas that make up the U.S. political system. All readings in this course will be at the college level and involve more work and dedication than the Honors Political Science course. The course will cover instruction on the Articles of Confederation, the Constitution, the three branches of government, bureaucracy, interest groups, political beliefs and behaviors, the role of the media in the political process, civil rights, civil liberties, and current events. Testing will include essay, political cartoon deciphering, short answer, multiple choice, true/false, and matching. Reading will be required on a daily basis and weekly essays will be required throughout the course. Access to current events via technology is needed for the class. One major current events paper will be required along with other specific projects on a variety of issues concerning American government. A group campaign project will be required in the class. Prerequisite: AP United States History Prerequisite: United States History Honors Recommendation: 83% with teacher recommendation Recommendation: 92% with teacher recommendation AP MACROECONOMICS Course #436 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Grade (AP) (elective) (.25 tech credit) The AP Macroeconomics course is designed to give students an in-depth knowledge about how our economy operates on an aggregate scale. Major units of study include: Basic Economic Concepts, Measurements of Economic Performance, National Income and Price Determination, the Financial Sector, Inflation, Unemployment and Stabilization Policies, Economic Growth and Productivity, and International Trade and Finance. The subject matter is especially relevant for students with an interest in business or political science. Supplementary reading will be frequently employed to complement the textbook and students will complete workbook problems, simulations, chapter outlines, and several projects as they prepare for the AP exam in May. 70

71 Prerequisite: N/A Recommendation: Strong performance in previous social studies courses. AP MICROECONOMICS Course #438 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Grades (AP) (elective) (.25 tech credit) AP Microeconomics is the study of how households, businesses, and governments make economic decisions. Topics include: the structure of markets; the theory of the firm; product market models; the factor market; market failures and the role of government in the economy; specialization based on comparative advantage; and international trade. The course emphasizes the application of economic principles and theories to analyze international, national, and local events and trends. Students have frequent opportunities to generate solutions to real and hypothetical economic problems. They also employ written and oral discourse supported by graphical analysis in order to illustrate the logic of their conclusions. Prerequisite: N/A Recommendation: Strong performance in previous social studies courses. AP PSYCHOLOGY Course #437 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Grade (AP) (elective) The purpose of the AP course in Psychology is to introduce students to the systemic and scientific study of the behavior and mental processes of human beings and other animals. Students are exposed to psychological facts, principles, and phenomena associated with each of the major subfields within psychology. These subfields include the biological bases of behavior, sensation and perception, states of consciousness, developmental psychology, abnormal and social psychology. Students will also learn about the methods psychologists use in their science and practice. Assessments include testing in traditional AP format and will take place regularly. Writing assignments will be due on a weekly basis. Course materials include access to an online textbook and study guide. Several project assessments will be assigned during the course of the semester. Prerequisite: N/A Recommendation: Biological and chemical processes of the body are strongly emphasized; therefore successful completion of these courses is necessary for achievement in AP Psychology. SOCIAL SCIENCE ELECTIVES INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS Course #416 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades (Academic) This course provides students with an understanding of the major theories in the field of international relations as well as the ability to apply these theories to both historical events and issues that currently shape our world. It offers a detailed examination as to why conflict occurs between nation states and also examines various factors that bring about cooperation. Topics covered in this course include: tools and tactics of International Relations, international organizations (United Nations, NATO etc.), American foreign policy (1945-Present), Game Theory and Strategic Thinking, and current issues in foreign affairs. Independent research is required and multiple debates and group projects are assigned. Students will analyze both historical and current issues in the world of international relations and prepare to work as a team to analyze and resolve major international problems. They will need to meet individual and group deadlines and act like they would if taking a college course. CURRENT ISSUES Course #417 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades (Academic) Current Issues offers students a chance to learn about and discuss the issues that impact our world, our nation, and our community in a setting open to students of all backgrounds. Students will take part in lively discussions on controversial and timely issues including, but not limited to, gun control, abortion, the death penalty and global warming. If you like to talk and you are interested in current events, this is your class. Students are graded 71

72 mainly for their participation, but also will take weekly quizzes, create a group project on a current issue and will take a midterm and final exam. HISTORY AND MEDIA: FROM ART AND ANTHEMS TO WIKIS AND THE WEB Course #439 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit The History & Media course approaches history from a unique and fascinating viewpoint. Throughout the course, students will examine the dynamic intersection of various forms of media with historical events. What effects did propaganda posters play in WWII? How did music during the Civil War inspire each side? How have movies shaped, or perhaps distorted, our understanding of history? How do the current news networks impact our world today? Additionally, how has the widespread use of social media changed the media landscape? All of these issues and more will be investigated throughout the course. Classwork will consist mostly of individual/group projects which aim to analyze the effects of visual representations, music, film, news outlets, and social media on important times in history. INVITATION TO PSYCHOLOGY Course #424 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades (Academic) This highly interactive course is an introductory exposure to the science of psychology. It will introduce students to the scientific study of the behavior and mental processes of human beings and other animals. Students are exposed to facts, principles, phenomena and experiments associated with several of the subfields of psychology including but not limited to: learning, motivation and emotion, altered states of consciousness, theories of personality, and mental disorders. The course will utilize a variety of video clips, readings, and online sources. Students will be graded based on homework assignments, prompted journal entries, tests, and quizzes. A five page research paper will serve as the final exam grade. SOCIOLOGY AND SPORT: THE EVOLUTION OF U.S. SOCIETY VIA SPORTS Course #419 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades (Academic) The course examines the role, purpose, and value of sport in U.S. history. The course is arranged chronologically and will explore the key themes of U.S. history through the lens of U.S. sports. Through this study students will gain an understanding of the close relationship sports have with the social, political, economic, and cultural institutions and values of a society. The course will use a variety of primary and secondary sources to display the historical significance and role of gender, race, ethnicity, and social class in the U.S. The course will utilize a variety of online sources and technology. Additionally, students should be prepared to take part in daily class discussions and complete several small projects. THE STUDENT LEADERSHIP CHALLENGE Course #440 6 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades (Academic) This course is designed to help student leaders recognize and learn to deal with the challenges of the complex world in which they live and lead. In this course, students will learn skills and best practices that will aide them when working with diverse groups of people to achieve common goals, whether they be in school, their community, or in a business setting. Topics to be addressed include the philosophical foundations and fundamentals of effective leadership, as well as intrapersonal and interpersonal skills necessary to leaders. The culminating project will allow student leaders to put their new knowledge and skills to work by designing a community based project that will endeavor to make a difference in the lives of others. This course should be considered by student leaders in any school or community activity and by those with business, government, military, or non-profit organizational leadership in their future. 72

73 SPECIAL EDUCATION This program is designed for students identified as eligible for special education services. Students are placed in this program based on team recommendation after a multidisciplinary evaluation. Referral for consideration may come from a teacher, a parent, the student or anyone knowledgeable about the student's educational program. Special education program assistance varies with each student from providing direct support through assisting a regular education teacher in modifying instruction and materials. Our goal is to educate the student in the least restrictive environment and provide an appropriate amount of inclusion in the regular school setting. ACADEMIC METHODS Course #139/141 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Course #140/142 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades 9-12 People learn in very different and personal ways. This program helps students to learn more about their own learning styles while they are developing specific study skills. Students will learn to organize and improve their capacities to listen, visualize, and focus their attention more effectively. Instruction will also focus on following directions, sequencing, note taking, reading for meaning, studying, and test preparation. Extended time for test taking and completing written assignments is provided as needed. Prerequisite Active IEP RESOURCE ROOM Grade periods/cycle/semester 1 credit 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Resource Room services are available for students who require specific types of support including Learning Support, Emotional Support, Life Skills Support and Autistic Support. INTENSIVE MULTI-SENSORY MATHEMATICS INSTRUCTION Grade 9-12 Students in special education can receive explicit instruction in numbers and operations, measurement, geometry, algebraic concepts, and data analysis & probability during leaning support periods. Participation in this course is determined by specific criteria that are based on each student s IEP. INTENSIVE MULTI-SENSORY READING INSTRUCTION Grade 9-12 Students in special education can receive explicit instruction in fluency, phonics, and comprehension during the learning support periods. Participation in this course is determined by specific criteria that are based on each student s IEP. 73

74 TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION GRAPHIC COMMUNICATION I Course #838 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Grades 9-12 (1 tech credit) *Materials Fee - $15.00 Graphic Communication I should be considered by any student who wishes to learn about Graphic Communications and the process of reproducing an image onto a substance. The course is designed to provide each student with essential background material. Included areas are safety, measurement, typography, layout & design, Screen-printing, Offset printing, computer-to-plate technology, and the Offset press. The course is designed to allow hands-on experiences in the printing processes. Students will proceed through all areas of the lab with the concentration of the printing being done with offset lithography and screen-printing. GRAPHIC COMMUNICATION II Course #839 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Grades (1 tech credit) *Materials Fee - $15.00 Graphic Communication II is a course for students who have successfully completed Graphics I and wish to further develop skills and ideas in graphic arts. Students in Graphic Communications II will be designing and producing more advanced projects. Advanced study will concentrate on the areas of screen printing and offset lithography. Also explored will be advanced technology and occupations available in the rapidly growing and changing area of the graphic arts industry. Prerequisite: Graphics I Recommendation: 74% GRAPHIC COMMUNICATION III Course #840 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Grade 12 (1 tech credit) *Materials Fee - $15.00 This course is designed for the student interested in a career in Graphic Arts. The course will be conducted as an independent study. Students will be responsible for an area or concentration of study (i.e., computer graphics, offset printing, screen printing, etc.) Students will be responsible for a research component of their area of concentration. Students will also be responsible for printing jobs that come into the Graphics Lab. Prerequisite: Graphics II Recommendation: 83% COMPUTER GRAPHICS AND VIDEO COMMUNICATIONS Course #830 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit (1 tech credit) Course #831 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades 9-12 (.5 tech credit) This course is designed for those students who wish to gain experience in the use of video production and photographic techniques along with computer generated graphics as methods of communicating ideas, thoughts, and information. Capabilities of action and still visuals will be realized by students who will complete specific assignments using a variety of videotape and photo film methods to relate ideas to others. Exploration, composition of program, production techniques, topic matter organization, constructive analysis, and care of equipment will be important units of the class. Self-evaluation, the development of self-confidence, and personal presence will be realized. This course would be of great assistance to students planning to further their studies in communications, in business, in advertising and sales, or in graphic arts. 74

75 BROADCAST TV COMMUNICATION Course #850 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Grades (1 tech credit) This course is designed for the student who is interested in developing high quality video productions. Students will learn how to synthesize advanced camera, editing and animation techniques to develop high quality videos. Students interested in this class must be highly motivated self starters who have an interest in a career that is related to the video/television field. On certain occasions students will be required to spend time after school in the evenings to tape school events with the purpose of broadcasting the events. Prerequisite: Computer Graphics & Video Communications Recommendation: 74% COMPUTER DRAFTING I Course #832 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Grades 9-12 (1 tech credit) *Materials fee $15.00 Computer Drafting I provides basic experience in the fundamentals of drafting. It is highly recommended for students considering a career in drafting, industrial design, the construction trades, art, or engineering (both architectural and mechanical). Segments of freehand sketching will be introduced; however, the majority of the drafting will be two view, three view, isometric, and three point perspective drawings. To conclude the course, students will produce a working set of drawings of a project they will build showing the parts of the object and its dimensions, much like a draftsperson would produce in industry. Students may elect to complete their drawings on the computer (CAD system). Extensive use of this system will be emphasized. Computer Drafting I may serve as a technology credit, or the 17 th credit. Course #833 3 periods/cycle/semester.5 credit Grades 9-12 (.5 tech credit) This course provides basic experience in the fundamentals of drafting. Students will cover every area designated in the one credit course but will have less classroom practices. COMPUTER DRAFTING II Course #836 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Grades (1 tech credit) *Materials fee $15.00 Computer Drafting II is strongly recommended for those students planning to further their abilities in drafting and in computer graphics/design competency. This course is especially valuable to those students who contemplate a vocation in architecture, industry or the building trades. For those students who plan higher education in the fields of architecture, engineering and industrial technology, this course is a must. Basic areas of study are: axonometric projection, auxiliary views, perspective, and architectural design with model building. Computer Drafting II may serve as a technology credit, or the 17 th credit. Prerequisite: Computer Drafting I Recommendation: 74% COMPUTER DRAFTING III Course #837 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Grades (1 tech credit) *Materials fee $15.00 Computer Drafting III is a course designed for highly motivated students who are considering a career or posthigh school education in drafting. This course will allow each student to pursue his or her area of interest in the field of drafting. Students must be resourceful and self-motivated to be successful in Drafting III. Architectural drawing, technical drawing, and technical sketching and design are the areas students will study; however, prior to selecting this course, discussion with the instructor is advised. Computer Drafting III may serve as a technology credit, or the 17 th credit. 75

76 Prerequisite: Computer Drafting II Recommendation: 83% INTRODUCTION TO ENGINEERING DESIGN (IED) Course #844 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Grades 9-12 (.5 tech credit) *Materials fee - dependent on the size and number of projects students select to construct. Introduction to Engineering Design (IED) is a high-school-level foundation course in Engineering. In IED, students are introduced to the engineering profession and a common approach to the solution of engineering problems--an engineering design process. Using problem-based learning, students will progress from completing structured activities to solving open-ended projects and problems, which require them to develop planning, documentation, communication, and other professional skills. Through both individual and collaborative team activities, projects and problems, students will solve problems as they practice common engineering design and developmental protocols, such as project management and peer review. Students will develop skills in technical representation and documentation of design solutions according to accepted technical standards, and they will use current 3-D design and modeling software to represent and communicate solutions. In addition, the development of computational methods that are commonly used in engineering problem solving, including statistical analysis and mathematical modeling, are emphasized. Ethical issues related to professional practice and product development are also presented. PRINCIPLES OF ENGINEERING (POE) Course #845 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Grades 9-12 (.5 tech credit) *Materials fee - dependent on the size and number of projects students select to construct. Principles of Engineering (POE) is a Project Lead the Way foundation course in Engineering. This survey course exposes students to some of the major concepts that they will encounter in a post-secondary engineering course of study. Through problems that engage and challenge, students explore a broad range of engineering topics, including mechanisms, the strength of materials and structures, automation, and kinematics. The course applies and concurrently develops secondary-level knowledge and skills in mathematics, science, and technology. Students have the opportunity to develop skills and understanding of course concepts through project-based learning. By solving rigorous and relevant design problems using engineering and science concepts within a collaborative learning environment, APB learning challenges students to continually hone their interpersonal skills, creative abilities, and problem-solving skills. Students will also learn hot to document their work and communicate their solutions to their peers and members of the professional community. It also allows students to develop strategies to enable and direct their own learning, which is the ultimate goal of education. INDUSTRIAL MATERIALS I Course #841 Wood 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Course #851 Metal (.5 tech credit) Grades 9-12 *Materials fee - dependent on the size and number of projects students select to construct. This course should be considered by any student who wishes to pursue a career in engineering, the industrial technologies, the trades or simply desires to expand his or her knowledge and experience in the area of material processing. This course is designed to provide a variety of "hands-on" experiences and basic understandings in either wood or metal processing. Students will work with hand tools, machines and equipment to complete competency skills and solve problems, while producing a product. Students may select a course number, which reflects their focus of wood or metal. INDUSTRIAL MATERIALS II Course #842-Wood 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Course #852-Metal (.5 tech credit) Grades *Materials fee - dependent on the size and number of projects students select to construct. 76

77 This course should be considered by students who wish to further their studies in material processing. It is strongly recommended for those who plan further study in mechanical engineering, manufacturing, and production technologies. Advanced techniques in separating, forming, and combining materials will be studied. Students will be challenged to work together solving problems and making decisions while producing a product. Students may select the course number, which reflects their focus of wood or metal. Prerequisite: Industrial Materials I Recommendation: 74% INDUSTRIAL MATERIALS III Course #843-Wood 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Course #853-Metal (.5 tech credit) Grades *Materials fee - dependent on the size and number of projects students select to construct. This class is designed for the highly motivated student of materials processing technologies who wishes to further his or her studies in a specialized area on an independent basis. Skills are expected to be well developed, and student interest intense. Students may select the course number, which reflects their focus of wood or metal. Prerequisite: Industrial Materials II Recommendation: 83% ROBOTICS Course #229 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Grade 9-12 (.5 tech credit) This course will take a hands-on approach to robotics engineering. Students will become familiar with and apply STEM concepts related to computer aided drafting and design (CADD), electronics, programming and manufacturing. Additionally, students will utilize project management, teamwork, and problem-solving skills to create a robotic system that can battle it out against similarly designed systems. Upon completion of the course, students will have gained a fundamental understanding of robotics. 77

78 WORLD LANGUAGE The World Language Department offers students the opportunity to develop communicative skills in three major world languages: French, German, and Spanish. Students who continue through the fifth year level are well prepared for advanced language study at the college level and are well equipped for travel abroad. More important, world language study affords students an extra competitive edge in the economic global community of the 21st century. The study of a world language is highly recommended for those students with an adequate background in English and is particularly advised for those students pursuing an academic program. A study of two (2) years or more in a World Language Program is often a pre-requisite for college admission or a requirement for completion of a college degree. World language study is also advantageous for the business student as it enhances English skills and increases employment opportunities. Eighth grade students who earn a 74% or better as a final average in WLIb in the middle school world language program are eligible to continue their world language study at the WLII level. Teacher recommendations will be made at the conclusion of WL I at the Middle School. It is recommended that all beginning world language students take the first and second levels of the language during their first year. WORLD LANGUAGE I (Academic) Course #511 French I 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Course #521 German I 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Course #531 Spanish I 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Grades 9-12 World Language I is an introduction to the target language and culture. The primary aim is to provide a sound basis for learning the language as it is spoken and written and to lead students to a better understanding of peoples and lands. A series of written and oral presentations and activities will place emphasis upon the development of oral proficiency within the target language. Prerequisite: English Recommendation: 74% WORLD LANGUAGE II (Academic) Course #512 French II 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Course #522 German II 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Course #532 Spanish II 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Grades 9-12 Students will practice skills acquired in Level I and progress to a higher level in writing and conversation. The skills of listening, reading, and writing will be practiced through readings, slides, and tapes. Spontaneous question-and-answer exercises and conversations are frequently used to apply structure in everyday situations, which provide the continued development of oral proficiency in the target language. Prerequisite: World Language I Recommendation: 74% WORLD LANGUAGE III (Academic) Course #513 French III 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Course #523 German III 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Course #533 Spanish III 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Grades 9-12 (.25 tech credit) Language skills already developed are reviewed and further enhanced so that students feel more confident listening to, speaking, reading, and writing in the target language. Cultural activities and creative projects are 78

79 used to incorporate greater global understanding. Students write more frequently as their knowledge and ability increases. Prerequisite: World Language II Recommendation: 83% WORLD LANGUAGE IV (Honors) Course #514 French IV 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Course #524 German IV 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Course #534 Spanish IV 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit (.25 tech credit) The course is designed to enhance fluency in all areas of the language: listening, speaking, reading and writing. Students are required to write thematic essays. This course requires higher level and critical thinking. Students entering this course should possess strong foundations in all of the second language skills. The majority of the World Language Honors course is taught in the target language. Assessments and assignments are more rigorous in nature and require higher level thinking skills. Teacher recommendation is required to switch to the Honors track. Prerequisite: World Language III Recommendation: 83% WORLD LANGUAGE V (Honors) Course #535 Spanish V 6 Periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Course #525 German V 6 Periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Course #515 French V 6 Periods/cycle/semester 1 credit (.25 tech credit) The course is designed to incorporate all areas of fluency skills learned in Levels I- IV. Students are expected to speak predominately in the target language. Students will be expected to complete comprehensive writing assignments and frequent oral presentations. The World Language Honors course is taught entirely in the target language. Assessments and assignments are more rigorous in nature and require high level thinking skills. Level V World Language Honors is taught as a Pre-AP Course. Prerequisite: Spanish IV Recommendation: 83% German IV Recommendation: 83% French IV Recommendation: 83% AP WORLD LANGUAGE Course #536 Spanish 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Course #516 French (.25 tech credit) This course is designed for students who have completed five (5) levels of World Language study. This course will follow the AP curriculum and the students will be prepared to take the AP language exam in the spring. The Advanced Placement course is equivalent to a rigorous language and composition course at the college level. The World Language Honors course is taught entirely in the target language. Assessments and assignments are more rigorous in nature and require high level thinking skills. As with a college course, extensive preparation is required outside of the classroom. Prerequisite: World Language V (Honors) Recommendation: 83% 79

80 SPECIAL PROGRAMS ACADEMICALLY TALENTED PROGRAM (ATP) Academically talented students are those who, in accordance with objective criteria prescribed in guidelines developed by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, Bureau of Special Education, have outstanding intellectual and/or creative ability. To develop those unique abilities requires special activities and services not ordinarily provided in the standard curriculum. Students eligible for ATP are those who have been identified by multiple criteria, including recommendation, academic achievement, and group and individual testing. A minimum score of 130 on an approved intelligence test is required. ATP students rank among the top three percent of the nation's school age population. The ATP or Challenge Program is designed to provide enriching opportunities for gifted high school students while thoroughly delivering the challenging high school curriculum. 9TH GRADE CHALLENGE (ATP) (SOCIAL STUDIES) Course #010S (Social Studies) 6 periods/cycle/year Grade 9 1 credit The 9 th Grade Challenge Social Studies class is designed for gifted students. This course exposes students to a variety of Non-Western cultures through the comprehension of higher level informational texts. Students study the patterns of civilization as they evolve in Asia, Africa and the Middle East. A major focus will be placed on government, geography, society, customs, religion, global current events and economics. Students read historical novels, poems, primary sources and other informational pieces that represent the cultures and geographic regions studied. Students should expect extensive writing and research assignments. A major emphasis will be placed on critical thinking, analytical skills, creativity, problem-solving, and collaborative learning. 10TH GRADE CHALLENGE (ATP) (ENGLISH) Course #102 6 periods/cycle/semester 1 credit Grade 10 In an enriched atmosphere, gifted students will focus on a variety of writing styles, vocabulary, and research projects in a literature program that includes all literary genres. The course is conducted as a seminar with ample time provided for class discussion. Tests and research projects will require formal writing so that the student is more prepared for the rigors of Advanced Placement or Honors English in 11thgrade. ADDITIONAL PROGRAMMING OPTIONS In grades 11 and 12, students in the gifted program have the opportunity to participate in self-selected mentorships and/or distance learning courses depending on needs stated in GIEPs. These mentorships and/or distance learning courses will not be factored into GPA or class rank. Selections will be made during the GIEP meeting. 80

81 COMMUNITY SERVICE & WORK RELEASE COMMUNITY SERVICE Course #490 Grades credit Time: outside of school day Students may earn.5 credit after completing 30 hours of community service. To "give back" to the community in the form of volunteerism is a long-established principle of American society. Garnet Valley believes it is important to provide a mechanism to help reinstitute the philosophy of community service. Community service is an opportunity to learn more about yourself and your community as well as receive valuable training about the world of work. Community service for credit is a voluntary contribution to the common good of others and responds to real needs of society. Community service completed with a co-curricular club will be included with the club and not for community service credit. All community service is done on non-school time. This is your chance to be a "giver". The one-half credit is included on the transcript but may not be used toward graduation credits, or in the calculation of GPA. WORK RELEASE Course #648 6 periods/cycle/semester No Credit Course #649 3 periods/cycle/semester Grades Under current policy seniors may be excused from school during the final period in order to experience gainful employment in a job related to specific career choice. Students are required to have a parent permission form signed and on file in the guidance department. Students will also be required to have a note from their employer indicating the student has a job. Students will only be granted work release after both the parent permission and employer note is on file in the guidance office. If a student is no longer employed at any time during their work release, the student will be placed in a study hall. Students are allowed no more than the equivalent of 2 credits of work release per year. 81

82 DELAWARE COUNTY TECHNICAL SCHOOL Course #651 - Half Day, (AM, PM Career & Technical Education Program) Grades elective credits STUDENT PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS Students will attend the technical school part time in the AM or PM for technical training. They will receive major subjects at Garnet Valley. HOW THE PROGRAM WORKS HALF DAY, A.M. or P.M. Diploma Academic Courses Course Difficulty Garnet Valley H.S. Garnet Valley H.S. College or General Studies Aston Campus Folcroft Campus DCTS Programs 82

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