Deering High School. Course of Study Guide Learning Without Borders

Transcription

1 Deering High School Course of Study Guide Learning Without Borders 1

2 TABLE OF CONTENTS TITLE PAGE Foreword 3 Statement of Purpose 4 Selecting Courses to Achieve Goals 4 Equal Opportunity 5 Graduation Requirements 5 University of Maine s High School Recommendations 6 Profile of a Deering High School, ISSN Graduate 6 The Four Domains of Global Competence 8 Grading System 8 Class Rank/GPA 8 Change of Schedule 9 Withdrawal from Class 9 Independent Study Courses 9 Early College Program 10 Early Graduation 10 College Admissions Testing 11 Deering Coaching Program 11 WINN Program 11 STEM Endorsement 12 Course Descriptions: English Language Arts 13 Mathematics 22 Multimedia Technology 29 Visual and Performing Arts 31 Physical Education and Health 37 Science 38 Social Studies 43 World Languages 49 Programs and Services: ELL Program 55 Alternative Education Program 59 Community Programs 59 Jobs for Maine's Graduates 59 Special Services 60 PATHS Vocational Education 63 2

3 Dear Deering High School Student: This Course Selection Guide has been prepared to assist you and your parents or guardians with the process of course selection for the school year. The Guide contains information regarding goal setting, academic policies and procedures, and course descriptions. Deering High School s block schedule makes a wide variety of course offerings available to our students. These options necessitate choices and decisions. We encourage you to seek the experience and advice of your parents/guardians, your counselor and your teachers before finalizing your selections. In addition to planning for the school year, we want to work closely with you to ensure that your choices will help you meet your goals for the future. This includes meeting graduation requirements as well as requirements for post secondary education options that you are pursuing. We hope the information provided will encourage thought and discussion. If you or your parents/guardians have any questions, contact school personnel counselors, teachers, or administrators to arrange a conference. Sincerely, Ira Waltz Principal 3

4 Statement of Purpose for Deering High School THE MISSION OF DEERING HIGH SCHOOL IS TO GRADUATE STUDENTS WHO ARE COLLEGE AND CAREER READY AND GLOBALLY COMPETENT. Selecting Courses to Achieve Your Goals Thoughtful planning will help you achieve the goals you have for high school and your future. Take time to read through the information in this guide to make sure you are familiar with everything from minimum graduation requirements to the wide variety of elective courses available to you. Below are several suggestions to assist you in making these important decisions. Challenge yourself. Use high school as an opportunity to discover how much you are capable of accomplishing. Consider the grades you have earned in the past. Some courses build upon the knowledge or skills you have acquired in previous work (prerequisites), while other courses build upon knowledge in related subjects. For example, Physics requires math proficiency and Chemistry requires the prerequisites of Earth Science and Biology. Typically a combination of assessments such as NWEA scores and achievement in previous courses will be drawn upon to help you determine your course selections. Consider the things that interest you and take courses that will help you increase your knowledge in your area of interest. Discuss possible courses with your parents, teachers, counselor, Deering Coach and peers. Be certain that you select courses to meet the DHS high school graduation requirements, as well as courses that support and develop your individual interests. Remember, the more planning and thought you give to course selection, the more meaningful your high school experience will be. Although Deering High School makes every effort to meet your course requests, certain course configurations are not always possible. The counselors in the Guidance Department are available to assist students with exploring course options. The counselors can work with students to map out four year plans and assist students in making decisions around selecting courses to meet particular goals. Students are welcome to drop in to the Guidance Office or make an appointment to meet with their counselor. The high school counselors are: Ms. Katheryn Dunham Ms. Tracey Moore Ms. Libby Heselton Ms. Marisa Polk 4

5 Equal Opportunity The Portland Public Schools ensure equal educational opportunities regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, handicap, religion, gender, or sexual orientation in accordance with state and federal guidelines. Graduation Requirements The Portland School Committee has established that each student must earn a total of forty one (41) credits and meet a computer proficiency standard to participate in graduation exercises and receive a high school diploma. The 41 credits are typically earned over a four year period, barring extenuating circumstances such as serious illness or academic failure. The computer proficiency standard is typically met by the end of middle school. All course credits and requirements must be completed in order for a student to participate in graduation exercises. Students are expected to select their courses in consultation with their parents/guardians, teachers, and guidance counselors. Credits are awarded upon successful completion of a course. Typically, full term courses at Deering High School are worth two credits each; half term courses earn one credit each. Within this guide, each academic cluster has defined the courses recommended to meet the following graduation requirements: 4 courses of English 8 credits 3 courses of Mathematics 6 credits 3 courses of Science 6 credits 3 courses of Social Studies 6 credits 1 course of Fine Arts 2 credits 2 courses of Physical Education 2 credits 1 course of Health 1 credit Elective Courses 10 credits Total for graduation 41 credits Note: It is highly recommended that students planning to attend college should complete at least two courses of world languages through Level II. Consult your guidance counselor. Fine Arts Requirements Courses counting for fine arts credit are marked by the letters FA following the course title in this Course Selection Guide. The Fine Arts requirement can be met through Art and Music courses, as well as Drama and Speech. Reminders for Course Selections Students are expected to take at least three (3) courses per term (12 credits for the year) minimum. Credit cannot be granted twice for the same course. Courses in the music program as well as Drama & Speech are exceptions to this rule. To select and remain enrolled in a course, students must meet prerequisites, which may include teacher recommendation. All students are encouraged to pursue rigorous courses. A number of tools are used to identify students for honors and AP courses including parent and teacher recommendations and students own requests. Students are identified for Advanced Placement courses according the their scores on the PSAT exam 5

6 given in the fall of the sophomore and junior year. Students are also identified through the Chapter 104 (Gifted and Talented) program. Students with disabilities should discuss and plan their course selections with their case manager who is responsible for implementing the student s Individualized Education Plan (I.E.P). University of Maine s High School Recommendations The University of Maine and most colleges offering Bachelor's degrees expect the following course program to be completed during high school in order for students to be college ready. In addition to these core courses, students also need to choose a variety of elective courses to develop interests and a broad knowledge base. The University of Maine requires the SAT or the ACT with Writing to be submitted in determining each student s college readiness. The following core courses are recommended by the University of Maine system: 4 courses of English 4 courses of Math including Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry and a senior yr math course 3 courses of Social Science 3 courses of Lab Science At least through level II in a language other than English Profile of a Deering High School, International Studies Schools Network (ISSN) Graduate The goal of Deering High School/ International Studies Schools Network (ISSN) is that every student who graduates from an ISSN school possesses the knowledge, skills, and habits of mind necessary to succeed and contribute in the 21st century global environment. It is a goal for each and every Deering student; our mission is excellence and equity in the global era. The following is a profile of the attributes we strive to develop in each Deering graduate. Deering graduates are Ready for College. They: Earn a high school diploma by completing a college preparatory, globally focused course of study requiring the demonstration of college level work across the curriculum. Have the experience of achieving expertise by researching, understanding, and developing new knowledge about world culture or globally relevant issues. Learn how to manage their own learning by identifying options, evaluating opportunities, and organizing educational experiences that will enable them to work and live in a global society. Graduate with all options open for post secondary education, work and service. Deering graduates have the Knowledge Required in the Global Era. They understand: Mathematics as a universal way to make sense of the world, solve complex, authentic problems, and communicate their understandings using the symbols, language, and conventions of mathematics. Critical scientific concepts, engage in scientific reasoning, and apply the processes of scientific inquiry to 6

7 understand the world and explore possible solutions to global problems. How the geography of natural and man made phenomena influences cultural development as well as historical and contemporary world events. The history of major world events and cultures and utilize this understanding to analyze and interpret contemporary world issues. Arts and literature and use them as lenses through which to view nature, society, and culture as well as to express ideas and emotions. Deering graduates are Skilled for Success in a Global Environment. They: Are literate for the 21st century proficient in reading, writing, viewing, listening, and speaking in English and in other world languages. Demonstrate creative and complex thinking and problem solving skills by analyzing and producing viable solutions to problems with no known or single right answer. Use digital media and technology to access and evaluate information from around the world and effectively communicate, synthesize, and create new knowledge. Make healthy decisions that enhance their physical, mental, and emotional well being. Deering graduates are Connected to the World. They: Effectively collaborate with individuals from different cultural backgrounds and seek out opportunities for intercultural teamwork. Analyze and evaluate global issues from multiple perspectives. Understand how the world s people and institutions are interconnected and how critical international economic, political, technological, environmental, and social systems operate interdependently across nations and regions. Accept responsibilities of global citizenship and make ethical decisions and responsible choices that contribute to the development of a more just, peaceful, and sustainable world. 7

8 The Four Domains of Global Competence Grading System Numeric Scale Academic Effort & Conduct Marks Superior 1 = excellent Above average 2 = satisfactory Average 3 = unsatisfactory Below average 0 69 Failure Class Rank/Standing 8

9 It is the policy of Portland Public Schools to rank order all members of the senior class. Class rank/standing is used to determine the class valedictorian and salutatorian, and is also reported on final transcripts. At the end of the junior year, students are asked to review their grades for accuracy. Class rank or standing is determined by calculating the average of all courses taken by the student in grades nine through the first semester of senior year. A system of weighted grades is used in which grades in AP and honors courses receive more weight than other courses. Guidance counselors can provide students and parents/guardians with more detailed information about how class rank/standing is calculated. Change of Schedule We support a student s choice of courses. A student must also respect the disruption to a teacher s class when students move in and out of classes. The following protocol honors both. Prior to the start of each term, students will have their schedules to review. Students have two opportunities to make schedule changes. There will be a designated period in June and again in January in which students have an opportunity to make changes. Once a new semester begins, schedule changes may be requested during the first two days of the term. After day two, changes are strongly discouraged and require permission of the classroom teacher. Withdrawal from Class A student may only withdraw from a class if their remaining schedule leaves them with at least 12 credits. In order to change or drop a course, a student must arrange a conference with his/her guidance counselor. Written parental approval is necessary. If a student withdraws from a class during the first two weeks of the term, there will be no record of this withdrawal on the student s transcript. If a student withdraws after the second week of the term and before the final four weeks of the course (final two weeks for quarter courses), the following procedure shall be followed: Fail Withdrawal (FW) students who withdraw from a class they are failing during the above mentioned time frame will have FW placed on their transcript, signifying a failing grade at the time of withdrawal. Pass Withdrawal (PW) students who withdraw from a class they are passing, during the above mentioned time frame shall have PW placed on their transcript, signifying a passing grade (no credit) at the time of withdrawal. If a student withdraws during the final four weeks of the course (final two weeks for a quarter course) the procedure shall be as follows: A student who withdraws from a class he/she is failing will have the grade at the time of the withdrawal placed on the transcript. This grade will be counted in the student s Grade Point Average (GPA). A student who withdraws from a class he/she is passing during the above time frame, shall have a PW placed on their transcript, signifying a passing grade (no credit) at the time of withdrawal. Independent Study Courses Deering students can take up to four credits of independent study to be counted as elective credit toward graduation. IMPORTANT: An Independent Study Plan must be approved in advance by the principal. The principal will not approve for credit any activity sponsored by a business or organization which is strictly for profit. When a student wishes to earn independent study credits, the following procedure must be followed: 9

10 1. The student initiates the request through his/her guidance counselor. The counselor ascertains that the student is within the total number of independent study credits allowed. 2. Together the certified teacher and the student will complete an Independent Study Plan, and submit that plan to the cluster coordinator for that subject. If the cluster coordinator approves the plan, s/he will submit it to the principal. The principal will return the plan to the guidance counselor who will forward a copy to the supervising teacher. 3. The counselor will assist the student throughout this process, to ensure that all procedural requirements are completed and to verify that the student's transcript is accurate. Upon completion of the Independent Study Plan, the supervising teacher will enter the student grade and sign and return the course approval form to the guidance counselor to verify completion of the independent study. Early College Programs Early college programs allow high school students to engage in college level academic work at a local college campus, gain valuable college preparatory experience, and earn college credit while still in high school. Generally, tuition costs are waived for one course per semester; students are expected to purchase required books and pay non tuition fees. Each program has different academic eligibility requirements. See your guidance counselor for more information. College course credit can be used to meet elective credit requirements toward graduation according to the following guidelines: College or university credits to be applied toward high school graduation must be planned with a high school guidance counselor and receive approval of the principal prior to the first meeting of the college course. Both 3 and 4 credit college courses will be counted as one Carnegie unit or two Deering credits. Grades awarded by a college or university will not be calculated in a student's high school Grade Point Average (GPA). However, grades in all courses counted toward graduation will be recorded on the student's high school transcript. Students must provide their counselor with a copy of their final grade report. Students choosing this option must recognize that this option could lower their class standing. EXAMPLE: Student A enrolls in a high school course and earns a very good grade which raises his/her GPA. Student B takes a college course for which the grade has no effect on the GPA. Student A could move ahead of Student B in class rank. Early Graduation If you desire to accelerate your high school program to graduate upon completion of less than four years at Deering High School, you must have the plan approved by your counselor and principal at the earliest feasible date. The number of credits approved from other institutions, summer school, and independent study are limited and require prior approval if you wish to count them toward graduation. Your planning must include a conference for you and your parents with your counselor and the principal. Written approval from your parents endorsing the plan leading to early graduation is required. It is also required that students wishing to graduate early demonstrate their college readiness by passing the Accuplacer test. 10

11 If a student graduates a year or more before his/her class graduates, the student will receive a class rank based on his/her standing in the original class. The student will not have a rank in the class with which he/she graduates. Students graduating early are welcome to participate in the senior prom and all school sponsored graduation ceremonies. College Admission Testing Most colleges and universities, as well as some technical schools require potential students to take an entrance examination. Students are encouraged to take the SAT or ACT in the spring of their junior or fall of their senior year. For some colleges, SAT Subject tests may also be required. These tests require pre registration and fees will need to be paid by the student. Fee Waivers for these tests are available for families receiving Free and Reduced Lunch vouchers. Your counselor can help you determine the testing requirements of the school you to which you plan to apply. Deering Coaching Program The Deering Coaching (DC) Program supports a more individualized education for every student. DC consists of students of the same grade, randomly grouped, with one teacher for their sophomore through senior years at Deering. In the freshmen year, the freshmen teachers serve as DC coaches to provide overlapping opportunities for students to be known and connect with their teachers and Deering. DC serves as a non academic companion to every student s course work. DC groups meet once a week for one half hour; this group serves as both a homeroom and a goal setting base. DC Yearly focus: Freshmen: High school transition, study skills, time management Sophomore: Identifying interests, career exploration and preparation Junior: Exploration of post secondary options including college and career Senior: Post secondary planning WINN Program Students working closely with teachers and peers will be accountable for their learning and actively participate by engaging, identifying, and selecting learning needs and/or opportunities through WINN. WINN is structured time, which provides meaningful experiences and learning support along a continuum of expanded learning opportunities to concentrated learning support to ensure that students are college and career ready and globally competent citizens. 11

12 WINN Overview What is it? What I Need Now (WINN) Allows us to meet students needs on all points of the learning continuum. When is it? Four times a week for 45 minutes Why? A chance to provide more processing time and/or more time to investigate and learn. Systematic response to those who need additional support and for those who would like enrichment. WINN Schedule All teachers pre book students on Thursday, Friday, Monday, and Tuesday using Enriching Students. On Wednesday Deering Coaches meet with their students and conference on academic progress and goals in order to ticket the student s remaining time for the rest of the upcoming week using the schedules generated by Enriching Students. Every student will be booked and have a schedule in place for WINN:Thursday, Friday, Monday, Tuesday. During WINN students will report to the location they are booked and remain there for the duration. STEM Endorsement 12

13 Course Descriptions English Language Arts Our dedicated department encourages students to think globally by investigating the world, recognizing perspectives, communicating ideas, and learning how, when, and where to take action. The Deering English curriculum is a continuum that satisfies our need for a sense of meaning and a sense of common human experience. Through the study of classic and contemporary works, we explore and honor those universal and shared truths that transcend time and culture as well as those specific, unique, and intriguing truths that provide insights into an unfamiliar world. In this search of others, we reflect on our cultural, spiritual, and ethical selves so we may be productive and moral citizens of the twenty first century. Through the study of the thinking speaking listening and writing process, we sharpen our critical thinking skills to clarify hazy thoughts, understand how language moves and manipulates us, and communicate effectively and responsibly. The result is a classroom dialogue of mutual understanding and trust. In order to graduate from Deering High School, all students are required to complete eight credits through the four core English offerings, one from each grade level. Students are urged to extend their language abilities by selecting from the English electives offerings. Challenge by Choice, our Workshop, College, Honors, AP, and elective courses offer challenging and stimulating curricula for all our students as they prepare for their 13

14 postsecondary educations and careers. Honors and AP students are expected to complete an additional summer reading assignment as outlined on the Deering Library Homepage and complete and submit an assignment on the first day back to school in September. English Workshop : This course is designed to closely monitor and assist students who are reading and writing below their current grade by two or more levels. This course is typically capped at fifteen students to provide more individualized and direct instruction. English Workshop supports the academic, social, and emotional needs of students as they fill their learning gaps and increasingly develop their independence and the skills needed. Some workshop students are encourage to move up to college prep English so that they work on deeper critical thinking, analysis, reading and writing skills that will better prepare them for college. English College Prep : This course is designed to expand students' knowledge, understanding, and skills. English College Prep is for students who are reading and writing just below, at, or just above grade level and who are prepared to focus on their studies. This course encourages and challenges students to become increasingly more self directed, confident, and proficient in reading, writing, thinking, and speaking. English Honors for grades 9 and 10 : This course is designed for the independent learner who is highly proficient in reading, writing, thinking, and speaking, and is academically, socially, and emotionally prepared to begin mastering his or her knowledge, understanding, and skills of the English language. English Honors expects students to continuously strive to become more Intellectually Curious and Engaged, Determined to Succeed, Passionate about Learning, Mindful of Self and Others, and Ethical. It is expected that these students have very strong habits of mind and often exceed expectations with their assigned work. English Honors Challenge for grades 11 and 12 : Instead of offering a separate class for honors students, the College Prep English curriculum for grades eleven and twelve has an honors challenge for those students seeking to explore course content in greater depth and breadth. An honors designation is earned by performance. The Honors Challenge is not a separate course; it may include such components as alternative assignments, seminars, summer reading assignments, independent research and/or public exhibitions that go above and beyond the typical course requirements. The emphasis is not simply on more work, but on work that is more demanding and complex. All students are eligible for the honors designation so long as they successfully complete the Honors Challenge within their college prep class as determined by the English Department. Students who successfully complete the Honors Challenge will have the accomplishment designated on their transcripts as well as a weighted grade factored into their cumulative GPA. Senior English at Deering High School now consists of different courses aligned with common core standards. All of these will include research, questioning techniques, reading comprehension, strategies for reading analysis, grade level grammar, vocabulary, and discussion. Students can earn their Senior English credit toward graduation by completing one semester long or two quarter long options below. Any extra course students take among the options for Senior English after completing the required amount will count as elective credit. Option 1: Option 2: Option 3: Option 4: AP Literature and Composition (three quarters) Senior English CP / Senior English CP with Honors Challenge (one semester) Senior Workshop English (one semester) Choose two of these quarter long offerings: Funny Business, Debate, World Religions (Please note that the quarter long offerings may not fulfill collegiate acceptance requirements for NCAA. If you are considering playing a Division I or Division II sport in college, we recommend that students take Senior English CP / Senior English CP with Honors Challenge or AP Literature and Composition.) 14

15 English Core Courses Course Title: English 9 Honors Course Number: 1111 Prerequisite: Honors students are expected to have excellent reading and writing skills, well developed high order thinking skills, excellent work habits, a willingness to share and exchange ideas in class discussion, and a willingness to go beyond basic assignment requirements. Students are expected to complete the Honors Summer Reading assignment by the first day of school in September. 2 English credits Grade 9 Description: In this course students will have long reading and long term writing and project assignments, and they will study in depth the various literary genre (novel, play, short story, poetry, biography, essay) with an emphasis on analysis of form, structure and meaning. Students will be introduced to literary criticism and its analytical uses. Typical works include Romeo and Juliet, Lord of the Flies, a short story unit, and mythology. A sequential approach to narrative, expository, research and creative writing as well as grammar and mechanics leads to highly polished, multi paragraph pieces. Course Title: English 9 College Prep Course Number: 1112 Prerequisite: Passing grade in grade 8 English 2 English credits Grade 9 Description: Designed for most grade 9 students, this course covers the various literary genre (novel, play, short story, poetry, biography, and essay) with an emphasis on plot, conflict, character and theme. Typical works include Romeo and Juliet, Fahrenheit 451, The Old Testament (as literature), and mythology. A sequential approach to narrative, expository, research and creative writing as well as grammar and mechanics leads to polished multi paragraph pieces. Course Title: English 9 Workshop Course Number: 1113 Prerequisite: None 2 English credits Grade 9 Description: This course uses an individualized approach, emphasizing critical thinking, comprehension, reading rate, vocabulary development, concept attainment, study skills, grammar, and increasingly complex modes of writing. To accomplish this, students will complete skill exercises, and read numerous fiction and nonfiction texts. Readings will include The Pearl by John Steinbeck, Heroes, Gods, and Monsters of Greek Myths by Bernard Evslin, Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare, selected short stories such as All Summer in a Day by Ray Bradbury, and poems. All students are required to choose books to read independently as well. All students will be explicitly instructed on how to take notes, answer reading questions with Highest Quality Responses (HQRs,) and write creative pieces, thesis papers, and a research paper. 15

16 Course Title: English 10 Honors Course Number: 1121 Prerequisite: Honors students are expected to have excellent reading and writing skills, well developed high order thinking skills, excellent work habits, a willingness to share and exchange ideas in class discussion, and a willingness to go beyond basic assignment requirements. Students are expected to complete the All School Summer Reading and Honors Summer Reading/Exam assignments on the first Friday of the first full week of the semester that the student is taking English. 2 English credits Grade 10 Description: In this course, students will have long reading and numerous long term writing and project assignments, and will study in depth the various literary genre (novel, play, short story, poetry, biography, essay) with an emphasis on thematic, stylistic, structural and historical approaches to meaning. Students will continue to read literary criticisms in their search for meaning. Most often read works include Macbeth, Huckleberry Finn, The Crucible, and The Kite Runner. A sequential approach to narrative, expository, research and creative writing as well as grammar and mechanics leads to highly polished, multi paragraph pieces. Course Title: English 10 College Prep Course Number: 1122 Prerequisite: Passing grade in Grade 9 English 2 English credits Grade 10 Description: Designed for most sophomore students, this course covers the various literary genre (novel, play, short story, poetry, biography, and essay) with an emphasis on plot, conflict, character and theme. Most often read are Macbeth, The Crucible, Animal Farm, and The Kite Runner. A sequential approach to narrative, expository, research and creative writing as well as grammar and mechanics leads to polished multi paragraph pieces. Course Title: English 10 Workshop Course Number: 1123 Prerequisite: None 2 English credits Grade 10 Description: This course uses an individualized approach, emphasizing critical thinking, comprehension, reading rate, vocabulary development, concept attainment, study skills, grammar and increasingly complex modes of writing. To accomplish this, students will complete skill exercises, and read numerous fiction and nonfiction texts. Course Title: Advanced Placement Language and Composition Course Number: 1130 and 1130Q Prerequisite: Successful completion of English 9 and English 10, preferably Honors 3 English credits Grades 11 and 12; Preference given to those in Grade 11 Description: This college level Advanced Placement English course requires that students read and carefully analyze a broad and challenging range of non fiction prose selections written in 16

17 a variety of periods, disciplines, and rhetorical contexts. Through close reading and frequent writing, students will deepen their knowledge of rhetoric and how language works, while strengthening their own composing abilities. Instruction emphasizes analytical annotation, accurate writing in response to a prompt, research and documentation skills, and sustained in depth instruction in writing expository, analytical, personal, and argumentative texts. The writing workshop format demands full participation by each student. Students are required to take the National Advanced Placement exam in May. The cost of the exam is $ For information about fee reductions, go to Collegeboard.com and Visit Fee Reductions for AP Exams for information about eligibility criteria and the procedure for claiming College Board fee reductions for AP Exams. Go to Federal and State Exam Fee Assistance for information about additional federal and state fee reductions that may be available for students Course Title: English 11 College (with Optional Honors Challenge) Course Number: 1132 Prerequisite: Successful completion of English 10 2 English credits Grade 11 Description: This course surveys the development of American literature from Puritan to modern times. Some common books students might study may include Ernie s Ark, The Catcher in the Rye, The Great Gatsby, A Streetcar Named Desire, and The Things They Carried. Students will continue to improve their writing skills in a sequential approach with narrative, expository, research, and creative writing. They will also further develop their grammar and mechanics skills. Instead of offering a separate class for honors students, the College Prep English curriculum for grade eleven has an honors challenge for those students seeking to explore course content in greater depth and breadth. An honors designation is earned by performance. The Honors Challenge is not a separate course; it may include such components as alternative assignments, seminars, summer reading assignments, independent research and/or public exhibitions that go above and beyond the typical course requirements. The emphasis is not simply on more work but on work that is more demanding and complex. All students are eligible for the honors designation so long as they successfully complete the Honors Challenge within their college prep class as determined by the English Department. Students who successfully complete the Honors Challenge will have the accomplishment designated on their transcripts as well as a weighted grade factored into their cumulative GPA. Course Title: English 11 College Prep Online Hybrid Course Number: 1134 Prerequisite: Passing grade in grade 10 English, teacher recommendation required 2 English credits Grade 11 Description: This course is designed for students who can work independently and effectively but who struggle with attending school. They will be able to complete work in an online environment and come to school periodically, usually once a week, for assessments, assistance, and discussion of texts. The curriculum will mirror the English 11 College Prep course, but there will be more student choice for books studied and other aspects of the class. Students will use their school issued ipad or other Apple device to access the 17

18 course via itunes University. Most of the books will be digital ibooks or PDF documents. Assignments will be submitted electronically, and students are expected to communicate often with their teacher. This course will exist in quarters, allowing students to enroll in the full course or use it for credit recovery. Course Title: English 11 Workshop Course Number: 1133 Prerequisite: None 2 English credits Grade 11 Description: This course uses an individualized approach, emphasizing critical thinking, comprehension, reading rate, vocabulary development, concept attainment, study skills, grammar, and increasingly complex modes of writing. To accomplish this, students will complete skill exercises and read numerous fiction and nonfiction texts. Course Title: Course Number: Prerequisite: Description: AP English Literature and Composition 1140 and 1140Q Willingness and ability to meet AP standards and successful completion of the AP summer reading assignment due in September. 3 English credits Grades 11 and 12; Preference given to those in Grade 12; Enrollment may be limited In this course, students will have lengthy and intellectually demanding readings and numerous long term writing and project assignments. AP English Literature and Composition is an intensive exploration into complex and challenging master works of English and world writers, similar to those taken in college. The heart of the program is close textual analysis, the development of critical writing skills and an examination of various literary concepts with special emphasis on tone and style. Core texts usually include Othello, Waiting for Godot, King Lear, The Trial, House of Spirits, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead, The Joy Luck Club, and Billy Budd. The small class, seminar format ensures full, daily participation by each student. Students are required to take the National Advanced Placement exam in May. The cost of the exam is $ For information about fee reductions, go to Collegeboard.com and visit Fee Reductions for AP Exams for information about eligibility criteria and the procedure for claiming College Board fee reductions for AP Exams. Go to Federal and State Exam Fee Assistance for information about additional federal and state fee reductions that may be available for students. Course Title: English 12 College (with Optional Honors Challenge) Course Number: 1142 Prerequisite: Passing grade in grade 11 English 2 English credits Grade 12 Description: This course surveys major English and world writers with an emphasis on well written essays of literary analysis. Works studied include Hamlet, The Oedipus Cycle and Into the Wild. A sequential approach to narrative, expository, research and creative writing as well as grammar and mechanics leads to multi paragraph pieces. Instead of offering a separate class for honors students, the College Prep English curriculum for grade eleven has an honors challenge for those students seeking to explore 18

19 course content in greater depth and breadth. An honors designation is earned by performance. The Honors Challenge is not a separate course; it may include such components as alternative assignments, seminars, summer reading assignments, independent research and/or public exhibitions that go above and beyond the typical course requirements. The emphasis is not simply on more work, but on work that is more demanding and complex. All students are eligible for the honors designation so long as they successfully complete the Honors Challenge within their college prep class as determined by the English Department. Students who successfully complete the Honors Challenge will have the accomplishment designated on their transcripts as well as a weighted grade factored into their cumulative GPA. Course Title: Funny Business **New offering for ! Course Number: (TBD) Prerequisites: Successful completion of English 9, 10, and 11 1 Senior English Credit, 1 quarter Grades 11, 12 with preference given to grade 12 Description: Have you ever wished the books you read in school weren t so depressing? Have you ever noticed that laughter is a universal experience? This course presents the opportunity to consider how and why writers craft works designed to entertain audiences through laughter and how humor varies around the world. Students will read and view a variety of genres from both classic and modern sources: TV, online videos, movies, short stories, poetry, articles, and longer fiction. Through class discussion, presentations, and informal and formal writing, students will analyze technical aspects of these works that create the magic of humor and consider why writers use humor as a persuasive device. This course is designed to entertain; to enrich students' perception of humor; and to sharpen reading, writing, and speaking skills. Please note that the quarter long senior English offerings may not fulfill collegiate acceptance requirements for NCAA. If you are considering playing a Division I or Division II sport in college, we recommend that students take Senior English CP / Senior English CP with Honors Challenge or AP Literature and Composition. Course Title: Debate **New offering for ! Course Number: (TBD) Prerequisites: Successful completion of English 9, 10, and 11 1 Senior English Credit, 1 quarter Grades 11, 12 with preference given to grade 12 Description: If you want to become a powerhouse of a student, start debating. In order to debate well, you need to understand the big ideas within your controversial issue, research both sides of that issue, write about both sides, then debate both sides against one or more people. This is not only great for your mind and other academic classes, but it is totally fun too. You will become skilled with arguments so that you can identify weaknesses in points and the most logical way to attack them. You will learn how to use the most effective evidence to support your points. Most of all, you will learn to think on your feet. This is no joke: Debate will change your life. Thinking, researching, writing, speaking, persuading, listening, note taking Debate has it all! Please note that the quarter long senior English offerings may not fulfill collegiate acceptance requirements for NCAA. If you are considering playing a Division I or Division 19

20 II sport in college, we recommend that students take Senior English CP / Senior English CP with Honors Challenge or AP Literature and Composition. Course Title: World Religions **New offering for ! Course Number: (TBD) Prerequisites: Successful completion of English 9, 10, and 11 1 Senior English credit, 1 quarter Grades 11, 12 with preference given to grade 12 Description: This quarter long class begins with an exploration of the eight elements common to all religions and their application EITHER to Buddhism and Hinduism OR to the major monotheistic religions, Judaism, Christianity and Islam. If time permits, we will also explore the religious traditions/practices of the Passamaquoddy and the Penobscot tribes of Maine. We will read excerpts from sacred texts and relevant historically or theologically important articles, and will explore the music, art, and ritual implements of each religious tradition. Please note that the quarter long senior English offerings may not fulfill collegiate acceptance requirements for NCAA. If you are considering playing a Division I or Division II sport in college, we recommend that students take Senior English CP / Senior English CP with Honors Challenge or AP Literature and Composition. Course Title: English 12 Workshop Course Number: 1143 Prerequisite: None 2 English credits Grade 12 Description: This course uses an individualized approach, emphasizing critical thinking, comprehension, reading rate, vocabulary development, concept attainment, study skills, grammar and increasingly complex modes of writing. To accomplish this, students will complete skill exercises, and read numerous fiction and nonfiction texts. English Elective Courses Course Title: Reading Enrichment Course Number: 1117 Prerequisite: Selected by middle school staff, NWEA scores Grade 9 only Description: This course is intended to provide more individualized and direct instruction to students. Reading Enrichment is offered in the first semester and taken in addition to a required English course. It is designed to closely monitor and assist students who are reading below their current grade by two or more levels as measured by district standardized assessments. Reading Enrichment aims to improve vocabulary, comprehension, concept formation, basic writing skills, note taking and study skills to support content area learning. This class is intended for students who need more preparation in reading strategies in order to be successful in their spring semester English course. Course Title: Creative Writing I 20

21 Course Number: 1115 Prerequisite: None Grades 9, 10 Description: Designed for students interested in improving their creative skills using the writing processes of drafting, offering and receiving feedback in reading writing groups, revising, sharing and publishing in school, local and national publications. Special attention is given to the importance of word choice and sentence variety. Units emphasized are memoirs, personal journals, reading contracts, short stories and narrative and lyric poetry.preparation and presentation of a writing portfolio is the final exam. Course Title: Creative Writing II Course Number: 1137 Prerequisite: None Grades 11, 12 Description: This course is intended for the mature student who loves creative writing and wishes to develop his or her craft. The student will be exposed to a variety of writing models and the process of writing, including peer editing. This fun and enlightening course will challenge the writer by providing multiple experiences for thinking and writing outside the box and improving his or her creative talent. Preparation and presentation of a writing portfolio is the final exam for the course. Course Title: Modern Journalism Course Number: 1116 Prerequisite: None Description: Engaging and interactive, Modern Journalism is focused on learning how to write like a professional journalist, uncovering a story, telling a story with the inverted pyramid technique, and creating an aesthetically appealing article with pictures and style. With an emphasis on the use of technology to investigate the world and recognize perspectives, students will create and have the option to publish several articles relevant to their world and that of their peers through interactive ibooks. They will also use social media, such as Twitter, in an attempt through gather first hand information they may use in their articles. Additionally, students enrolled in Modern Journalism will embark on several field trips in their community. Guest speakers will provide real world advice and instruction on the craft of journalism. The culminating project (not exam) will involve exploring the student s chosen area of journalism in more depth. Course Title: Drama and Speech FA Course Number: 1125 Prerequisite: None 2 Fine Arts credits Description: The focus of this course is an introduction to drama skills. The course emphasizes that drama is a three area art form involving (1) acting and movement, (2) technical production and make up, (3) drama and literary form. Opportunity for improvement, 21

22 application, and appreciation of these skills is given through practice in class or performance of a play. Stress is also given to the understanding of drama theory. In the speech component, the students will be exposed to various speech experiences and will be evaluated according to content, organization, and delivery of material. The course will also help the student to develop critical and analytical skills through experience in critiquing speeches of others. Course Title: The Art of Writing Course Number: 1119 Prerequisite: None Description: This course is designed for students of all grades who are struggling writers. It provides intensive instruction in the types of writing found across the curriculum: journaling, personal narrative, short responses, and thesis supported essays. The course seeks to familiarize students with best practices for approaching different sorts of writing, as well as with some concrete strategies for quality production. The course includes some review and strategies for pre writing, editing and revision. In addition, the course will bolster skills in the entire writing process, including time management and minimization of anxiety. Course Title: College Readiness Course Number: 1127 Prerequisite: None 1 Elective credit Grades 10, 11, 12 with preference given to grades 11, 12 Description: Students taking this course will improve their reading and writing skills and should see an increase in their performance on the reading comprehension and sentence skills section of the Accuplacer, a test that measures college readiness. The course will include instruction and development in English grammar, sentence skills, reading comprehension with short passages, and writing short on demand essays. The WritePlacer test, a portion of the Accuplacer, measures a student s ability to write effectively and may also be used in this course. College Board practice questions and exams as well as online reading passages and sentence skills resources will serve as tools to help students improve their reading and writing. Mathematics Department An understanding of mathematics is crucial for future success in college and job opportunities. Deering High School offers a wide range of mathematics courses at several levels. The Common Core State Standards, standards of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, and Maine s Learning Results have been utilized to adapt our curriculum to the needs of all students. Students are required to earn six math credits for graduation and demonstrate mastery of the Common Core State Standards, currently measured by the SAT. Since the study of mathematics is sequential, we encourage students to enroll in two math courses per year, and recommend four math classes total to meet most college 22