AP English Language A
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of English 10
Description:
AP English Language and Composition follows the outline set by the College Board. The literary portion covers fiction, nonfiction, drama, and poetry. In the first semester, students will analyze style and rhetoric, examining the author’s argument and structure. Students will learn how tone, diction, and syntax influence overall meaning. They will also examine the elements of rhetoric, including an author’s various appeals, credibility, irony, and overall use of logic. Writing assignments will include both expository and argumentative styles.
Units:
Introduction
Welcome to AP Language and Composition! This is a course that will ask students to both analyze and create nonfiction in order to demonstrate an understanding of the world in which they live.
This first unit provides some of the conceptual framework for the course, and it also provides an opportunity to see some of what the AP exam has in store.
There are five stages to the introductory work. The first is a discussion in which students immerse themselves immediately in sophisticated thought. The topic—the origins of virtue—is one that students will be exploring again in the next unit on Socrates.
Following the threaded discussion students will engage in the first multiple choice test, whereby reading and analytical skills will be assessed. This multiple choice format typically comprises 45% of the AP Exam in Language and Composition, so it will be a good opportunity for students to see how comfortable they are with this format of assessment.
Next students will participate in a threaded discussion that asks them to explore their origins of literacy. This will also provide students with an opportunity to more fully introduce themselves to classmates, particularly as they trace the history of their experiences in English/Language Arts courses.
This unit concludes with a chance to write an original argument—the first timed writing. Since the AP exam has a section that explores a student's ability to synthesize information into a coherent format, this type of response is integral to the course. Sometimes, this response is content-specific. This first one, however, is more general.
Finally, students will engage in a reflective process at the end of each unit.
Socrates
In this unit, students will discover the classical definition of being educated. The ancient Greeks, particularly Socrates, believed in the process of inductive reasoning. In this case, his practice was to work with those youths of Athens who were willing to engage in active conversation, and in the process, determine key ideas about virtue, education, character, politics, and the nature of the republic.
Students will learn the basics of rhetoric, as well, during this unit. Students should obtain a copy of Meno. Here, Socrates and Meno question the origin of virtue: is it taught or are we born with it? While students are reading Meno, they will need to keep a journal of key rhetorical (or argumentative) strategies that Socrates employs in order to fully determine the scope of his intellectual reasoning skills. Following this journal response, students will engage in two creative assignments. The first will be to write an original Socratic dialogue. Students will be employing the same skills that Socrates does with a classmate. Following this dialogue, students will be writing an original essay of definition.
American Transcendentalism
The American colonies were founded and populated by people who were leaving something behind and looking for something new. After the revolution, the new country attracted immigrants with similar histories. Ironically, those same conflicts and persecutions sometimes came with them to the new land. People who were constantly in conflict in one land could not be expected to live in total harmony in another. From this conflict grew a new American identity, one that began to leave the Old World behind.
In this unit students will focus on one critically important—but highly controversial—system of thinking in history. Although the focus was primarily upon a group of people, almost all of them friends living in or near Boston, their radically different thoughts have had a powerful and lasting impact upon this nation. Many people who do not understand what they believed still know their names and see them to be among the most important thinkers in American History.
Students will be able to explain or demonstrate:
- Historical Perspective: The importance of the conflicts among religious thought in early American history; the impact of German idealism and English romanticism on the formation of American transcendentalism
- Thinking Skills: An understanding of the basic concepts in the foundation of rhetoric and logic, especially focusing on the concepts of fact, opinion, and theory
- Language and Literature Skills: Basic English syntax, and how its understanding can be used to decode complex sentences
- Literature: An understanding and appreciation of American literature; an understanding of how syntax affects understanding; an understanding of how new thinking helped shape an American identity
- Composition Skills: Close reading and paraphrasing
- Metacognitive Ability: A reflection on learning
Exam 1
Throughout the course, students will be devoting full weeks to the experience of working with the AP exam. These weeks will assess both knowledge of the material studied as well as an ability to demonstrate one's development as a reader and writer. This unit will feature timed writings and practice multiple choice tests. These cover a range of analytical and stylistic devices which will be addressed through the content-based prompts for this course. For the three consecutive timed writings, students may take only 40 minutes for each to complete a response. The response must FIRST be handwritten. Given the difficulties of online instruction, it is entirely up to students to monitor their own schedule. After students have written their response by hand, they will type their response and submit it to the teacher using the Drop Box. The other half of the test features in-depth multiple choice questions, which are also presented under timed settings. Following the assessments, students will receive their first Discussion and Journal grades.
American Dream
In this unit, students will be exploring the American Dream by reading the American classic by F. Scott Fitzgerald:
The Great Gatsby. Like the previous work read, students will be spending two weeks on this unit. For the first week, students will read Chapters 1–6. For the second week, students will read Chapters 7–9. There will be accompanying writing assignments and other activities.
The objectives of this unit are:
- to understand the impact that point of view has on a story
- to successfully analyze the author's use of juxtaposition in the writing
- to understand how Fitzgerald uses symbolism
- to appreciate the author's analysis of America and examine the relevance to our society today
- to write successfully—both analytically and expositorily—in response to the reading
- to understand Fitzgerald's complex development of character
Exam 2
This unit features two more timed writings, as well as an additional multiple choice exam. The timed writings cover a range of stylistic and/or rhetorical strategies. Students will be encouraged to pay attention to the prompt and will be asked to explore a more "grassroots" approach to the prompt. This means they will look for more of the examples relative to tone, diction, syntax, and imagery. If the prompt asks for a more rhetorical analysis, students will look at the "top down" approach, where they explore various appeals and organizational strategies. Students will write only for 40 minutes, writing the response by hand first so that they can better prepare for the AP exam. Then students will type the responses and submit them using the Drop Box provided.
Nonfiction Essays
In this unit, students will be exploring the genre of nonfiction writing. They will be reading essays from noted writers, and they will be completing their own nonfiction essay. The discussions in this unit will help explore their interpretation of the essays. The AP Language and Composition course focuses on nonfiction. Therefore, students will be exploring how essayists craft their work. They will note that the traditional essay in school bears little resemblance to the kind of essay they are reading in this course. Indeed, when looking for a thesis statement, the introductory paragraph might be the last place one might find such a statement.
The objectives for this unit are:
- Successful analysis of author content.
- Successful analysis of author style, incorporating new terminology.
- Synthesis of analytical skills via writing an original essay, using the process approach.
- Comprehension of nonfiction as a genre that extends beyond the traditional analytical prose.
Exam 3
In this unit, students will be experiencing the timed writings and multiple choice exams as an evaluation of writing and as preparation for the AP Language exam. The timed writings will ask students to incorporate their knowledge of language as they explore different aspects of the genre of nonfiction.
Coming to America
What does the modern version of the American Dream look and sound like? Ann Fadiman successfully addresses this question in her book
The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down. The protagonists of this text are the Hmong people, who originate from Southeast Asia. In learning more about the United States, students may need to step into the shoes of those whose lives are vastly different from their own, especially when they come to America.Students will need to obtain a copy of the nonfiction book
The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down by Ann Fadiman. This book will need to be read within two weeks. As students read, they will want to think about a number of things, especially the way the author compares the two cultures. You can find some help by consulting the book's official Web site.For the unit exam, students will be asked to write paragraph responses to several study questions.
The objectives for this unit are:- to understand how writers effectively develop a logical argument
- to analyze how structural devices enhance meaning
- to successfully compare in an analytical format
- to appreciate the modern version of the American Dream as a story that is continuing to be told
American Poetry
Students will be reading selected poets in American literature during this unit. Their work here is twofold. First, they will understand key themes and ideas of American literature. Second, they will understand the stylistic and rhetorical devices incorporated in these poems. The study of poetry also gives students an opportunity to microscopically explore aspects of language. While the AP Language and Composition exam itself does
not include poetry, the study of poetry provides immeasurable benefits in terms of addressing the key components of language. More than any other unit, the study of language provides insight into the relationship between form and content. Therefore, students will need to become familiar with some fundamental terms.
The objectives for this unit are
- To successfully analyze poetry, with an awareness of stylistic technique.
- To analyze poets' views on universal themes.
- To compare eras in American literary history.
- To synthesize language analysis skills of the course into the analysis of poetry.
Textbook/Novel
- The Great Gatsby
- The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down
- Their Eyes Were Watching God
AP English Language B
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of AP English Language A
Description:
AP English Language and Composition follows the outline set by the College Board. The literary portion covers fiction, nonfiction, drama, and poetry. In the second semester students continue to analyze style and rhetoric, examining the author’s argument and structure. Students will learn how tone, diction, and syntax influence overall meaning. They will also examine the elements of rhetoric, including an author’s various appeals, credibility, irony, and overall use of logic. Writing assignments will include both expository and argumentative styles.
Units:
Exam Unit
This unit focuses on multiple choice and timed writing activities. The timed writings will be a product of the independent reading being completed by students. The multiple choice tests will be a product of a common reading being shared by all students.
Independent Reading
The first of two Independent Reading units is a unit based on key works of fiction. All of the selections in this unit are works that feature something unusual in terms of how the piece is structured. Unlike many conventional pieces of reading, where the structure is more linear, these novels all present variations in point of view, voice, time, and organization.
This unit will rely heavily on the student's ability to successfully interact with classmates through threaded discussions. There will be three threaded discussions students will need to maintain during the reading of the selected novel. In order to be successful, there must be at least two students who have selected to read the same book.
Students will choose from the following list:
- Foxfire by Joyce Carol Oates. This novel deals with the complex relationship between girls of a gang, their families, and their inner and outer antagonists.
- Wide Sargasso Sea by Jean Rhys. A prequal to Jane Eyre, this novel presents Antoinette’s/Bertha’s perspective on her attic imprisonment.
- Four Letters of Love by Niall Williams. This novel eloquently portrays the complex feelings associated with falling in and out of love, whether the couples are teenagers or adults.
- In the Lake of the Woods by Tim O’Brien. How politics, war, and family intertwine is the basis of this novel, which makes excellent use of the multigenre approach.
Harlem Renaissance
The early 20th century saw a blossoming or artistic talent in one small section of America—a portion of New York City called Harlem. For various reasons, a large number of African American writers flocked to that area and created a great body of high quality literature and other art forms.
This came at an especially bad time for African Americans generally. Although life had not been good for them in the years following the Civil War, it got especially worse in the South during the first years of the 20th century. In large part for that reason, many African Americans fled the South and moved to Northern cities in what is called the
Great Migration. This movement has much to do with the Harlem Renaissance. Their writing was controversial, even within their own community. Writers like Langston Hughes (right) were highly popular, but the decisions they made throughout their lives about the issues of segregation and prejudice were not always popular. One of the most controversial was Zora Neale Hurston, whose novel
Their Eyes Were Watching God was either praised or despised. For many years it was ignored, until not long ago when it was recognized once again as a modern masterpiece.
In this unit, students will study the following:
- Historical Perspective: the historical events that led to the increase in prejudice that was dominant during the time of the Harlem Renaissance
- Thinking Skills: an understanding of the fallacy of appealing to emotion
- Language and Literature Skills: the techniques authors use in creating character
- Literature: a look at the writing of the Harlem Renaissance, especially the novel Their Eyes Were Watching God
- Composition Skills: literary analysis essay
- Metacognitive Ability: a reflection on learning
The Portrait of Youth
One of the challenges that students face is to fully understand the nature of the group of people they belong to. As students draw toward the conclusion of the course, they embark on a unit where they look at how various forms of media have portrayed young adults.
When students look at examples that struggle to portray teenagers in a more developed light, these examples typically are two-dimensional. Characters are often good or bad. Plots have a rather clear moral compass to them. The topics themselves are transient; what may be evocative for teens to read five years ago may no longer be true today.
In order to attain a progressive yet critical view of your peer group, students have been asked to view a film and read a book that endeavors to portray the lives of older children and/or teenagers, most often in a school setting. This unit will provide a rich opportunity for students to not only assess an individual piece’s credibility, but also to compare these pieces to their own life.
Satire
Satire comes in many forms. It is generally a form of writing that comments upon or even attacks something in our culture or some practice. The old Roman satirists, like Horace and Juvenal, wrote formal verse satires that directly condemned practices to which they were opposed. Over the years, though, a different form of satire has emerged, one that uses wit, humor, and exaggeration to make its point. In this unit, students will look at the history and methods of satire, look closely at one of the most famous pieces of satiric writing in history, and write an original satiric piece.
Documentation and Review
This is a special exam review unit that includes information about documentation in a research paper. The AP exam has both a multiple choice section and a free response section on documentation. This Research Project is the next unit. Students will be working on their project during the time they will be taking the exam. This review unit must be completed before students take the AP exam in May.
Research Project
Research is used in some way in almost all occupations that require education.
- In business, market research helps companies make important decisions that could make the company succeed or fail.
- In the sciences, all advances require solid research.
- In the social sciences, research helps people make policies that make our world a better place in which to live.
- In the humanities, research helps advance understanding of complex issues.
- In education, research on the way people learn impacts instructional design.
(The design of this class would have been very different if it were not for the research conducted and published over the past decade.)
In all cases, success depends upon the quality of the research process. Poor research technique has led to terrible decisions over the centuries, and good research leads to success in all walks of life. A person with good research skills is a valuable employee, so you want to make sure that you learn and use the best possible techniques.
Creative Writing
At this point, all major work for the semester has been complete. Hopefully, students have taken the AP Exam and are feeling confident that they did well.This final unit has a creative writing or speaking project and the final exam. In addition, the teacher may elect to allow students the time to make revisions to past work.
Final Exam
Textbook/Novel
- The Great Gatsby
- The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down
- Their Eyes Were Watching God
AP English Literature A
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of English 11
Description:
AP English Literature and Composition is a college-level class that prepares students for the Advanced Placement Exam and develops vital research skills. Following a course sequence built around their needs, students will acquire important reading and critical thinking skills. In the first semester, students will deduce meaning and learn effective composition. Classic works, such as Oedipus the King, provoke discussion, along with modern and contemporary plays, short stories, poetry, essays, and novels. Other activities include close reading, paraphrasing, discussions, essays, short-answer exams, research papers, and reflective journals.
Units:
Introduction
Advanced Placement English Literature and Compositionis an extremely challenging class that will require students to spend more time studying on a daily basis than a typical high school class. Comparison studies have shown that getting a top score (5) on the AP English Literature and Composition exam is more difficult than getting an A in a typical sophomore English class in a competitive university. Still, students who work hard throughout the class can expect to get a passing score (3–5), and students who truly focus should be able to get a top score. In this unit, students will learn everything they need to know about how to be successful in the class and on the test. Topics of study include the class policies, rubrics, standards, semester schedules, and the reading list.
Thinking Skills
Throughout the year, students have to look at literature and try to read into it to determine the author's purpose, find symbolism, and generally search for what lies beneath the surface. This unit will teach students some basic principles for thinking and learning that will make this somewhat easier. They will also learn two important and related literary terms: theme and tone.
Oedipus Rex
In this unit, students will learn about the Greek theater, and will read one of the most important pieces of literature in world history. Its author, Sophocles, is considered one of the greatest writers ever. Students will look at a piece of literary criticism that has shaped the way people think of writing for more than 2,000 years. Although it can be argued that all educated people should know about these works, the main reason students study these is so that they can experience this literature and learn from it themselves.
In this unit, students will focus on another literary term: irony. Irony comes in several forms. Students will find the definition hard to understand. They mayl not fully grasp irony until they have seen it and discussed it in several different places.
Odyssey
There are many ways to approach a study of this work. In this unit, students will analyze both the cultural aspects of a story and the personal aspects of its protagonist. These are the qualities that helped shape the world.
Reading and Rhetoric
In this unit, students will learn skills that will enable them to understand complex literature. They will also concentrate on literary terms. Students may have had to memorize many of these terms in the past, but the real benefit from knowing these terms comes when they can demonstrate their understanding of them when they analyze literature.
Students will complete a series of activities designed to teach them these skills. These will teach individual skills, and they will build on each other. Students will also complete several activities that provide them with practice to read challenging material. This practice is essential. The first of these exercises will be primarily multiple choice. This is both to prepare students for the multiple choice section of the test and to start them off at the recognition level of understanding. Later in the unit, students will shift to written exercises. In these exercises, they will demonstrate that they can use the terms they have learned.
An Introduction to Literary Research
In this unit, students will begin to use research to help understand complex literature. They will learn reading skills as they study their novel, and they will learn the process of effective literary research. This unit includes an extra credit section that students are advised to use if it is at all possible. In this part of the course, students will get to see how a college library can be used for effective research.
Poetry Analysis
Earlier in the course, students learned important skills and literary terms related to the way authors and poets communicated meaning. Students learned strategies for effective reading, and they learned important literary terms like tone, imagery, diction, syntax, metaphor, simile, and many others. It is expected that students have mastered those terms and concepts and will continue to use them. In this unit, students will add the attributes of writing that pertain especially to poetry to their list of reading and writing skills.
A Comparative Analysis
In this unit, students will build on the research skills they demonstrated in the first novel unit. They first follow the same process with this novel as they did on the first, with only slight variations. Most of the guiding information from that unit is repeated in this unit. Then students will work on a comparison process that will lead to a research paper where they compare the two novels.
Final Exam
There are three Exam Review Weeks built into this course. During each of these units, students will have several activities that are designed to prepare them for the AP exam and for other upcoming exams. Although some of these activities are graded, most of them are for their benefit and are not graded. Students will also have time to do other activities during this unit to extend their learning.
Textbook/Novel
- Hamlet
- The Oedipus Cycle
- The Odyssey
- To the Lighthouse
- The Awakening
AP English Literature B
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of AP English Literature A
Description:
AP English Literature is a college-level class that prepares students for the Advanced Placement Exam and develops vital research skills. In the second semester, following a course sequence built around their needs, students will acquire important reading and critical thinking skills. They will deduce meaning and learn effective composition. Classic works, such as Oedipus the King, provoke discussion, along with modern and contemporary plays, short stories, poetry, essays, and novels. Other activities include close reading, paraphrasing, discussions, essays, short-answer exams, research papers, and reflective journals.
Units:
Exam Week
This course is designed to prepare students for the AP exam, so all lessons and assignments are giving them the essential skills. Students should review the scoring rubrics and practice with timed writings. If they choose, they can also purchase a supplementary review book and use that as well.
If students have not gone to the official AP Web site and downloaded all the materials they have there, they should do so immediately.The Exam Review unit has practice activities for poetry, prose, and the open question. Students have access to all the materials in all review units. They can use their own judgment as to when they want to study various materials.
Medieval Literature
In this unit students learn the basics of old English and look more closely at the linguistics of Middle English and the craft of Chaucer. An imporatnt focus is how the literature reflects both the culture and the historical events of the time.
Hamlet
The thorough analysis of Hamlet in this unit includes a variety of constructivist assignments and activities. Students will participate in several discussions and develop and oral interpretation of the reading. This unit have a total of 12 short analytical writing assignments, a major analytical essay, a reflection, and four discussion topics.
Romanticism
In this unit students examine Romanticism from an historical and a philosphical context as well as a literary movement. There are several short assignments based on the interpretation of writings from this era.
Realism and Modern
Students explore the issues related to the major changes in literature taking place at the turn of the 20th century. Comparison and contrast skills are the focus in this unit. Key writers include Shaw, Wilde, Rostand, Crane, Chopin, and Joyce.
AP Exam Review
In this unit students are given instruction for dealing with the different forms of writing assignments on the AP exam as well as practice completing tasks similar to those on the exam.
Final Project
Students demonstrate learning from the year in a major project using literature from all genres in this unit. Their exploration includes reading from texts as well as viewing and analyzing movies. Some of the readings are required while others are selected from a list of choices of contemporary literature.
Textbook/Novel
- Hamlet
- The Oedipus Cycle
- The Odyssey
- To the Lighthouse
- The Awakening
English 10 A
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Description:
This is the first of two courses that comprise English 10. In this course, the student will take an in-depth look at selections from world literature, including well-known works from American and British literature as well as works from other cultures. In reading these diverse selections, the student will gain a thorough understanding of fiction and nonfiction genres, including short stories, essays, and speeches. The student will also read John Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men and Chinua Achebe's Things Fall Apart. Francisco Jiménez's novel Reaching Out and Elie Wiesel’s novella Night may be read instead of Of Mice and Men and Things Fall Apart. These selections teach the student to understand longer works of literature in their historical and literary context.
Writing instruction focuses on analytical and expository writing but also provides opportunities for the student to write creatively. Throughout the course, the students expands his or her vocabulary through reading. Mastery of critical vocabulary and grammar skills helps the student become a more thoughtful and effective reader and writer.
Units:
Fiction and Nonfiction
In this unit, you will learn about the characteristics of fiction and nonfiction. As you read a variety of selections from American, English, and world literature, you will apply reading strategies such as making and revising predictions about the text and analyzing causes and effects. You will also learn strategies for reading informational texts. In addition, you will develop your writing skills as you create an autobiographical narrative and a cause-and-effect essay.
Short Stories
In this unit, you will explore the characteristics of fiction in greater depth by reading and analyzing a variety of short stories. As you read, you will deepen your understanding of literary elements such as plot, conflict, characterization, setting, and theme. Additionally, you will practice strategies that can help you better understand and appreciate the short-story genre, such as making inferences and drawing conclusions. Finally, you will develop your writing skills as you draft a short story and a comparison of two literary works.
Of Mice and Men
Of Mice and Men is the story of two men, George Milton and Lennie Small, living a hardscrabble existence as migrant workers during the Great Depression. Smart and practical, George has spent years looking after Lennie, who is hardworking and kind, but feeble-minded. Each man is the only family the other one has. As George and Lennie move from place to place and job to job, they hope to save enough money to buy a place of their own. Soon their dream seems within reach. But forces beyond their control threaten to ruin their hopes forever.
Types of Nonfiction
This unit focuses on the characteristics of effective essays and speeches. In this unit, you will read essays and speeches created for a variety of different purposes. These include narratives that communicate about the writer's personal experiences, expository writing that explains and informs, and persuasive works that urge readers toward a particular belief or course of action. In addition to analyzing written texts, you will explore the elements that make orally delivered speeches effective. Reading persuasive texts will also guide you in developing your own persuasive writing skills as you compose a brief letter to the editor and a longer persuasive essay.
Things Fall Apart
Things Fall Apart is the story of Okonkwo, a member of the Ibo tribe in Nigeria, and his family. They live in the village of Umuofia at the turn of the century. A strong, self-made man, Okonkwo is hardworking and proud, but often harsh and sometimes violent. Though he cares about his family, he is an authoritarian husband and father, unable to bear any sign of weakness. Okonkwo tries to live in accord with Ibo traditions and has become a highly respected member of his community. But a tragic accident sets Okonkwo on a more difficult path, and when Christian missionaries come to Nigeria, the Ibo's entire way of life is threatened.
Things Fall Apart is the recommended novel for English 10. Francisco Jiménez's Reaching Out may be read instead of Things Fall Apart with prior teacher approval. Lessons and activities for Reaching Out will appear on the lower half of the lessons pages
Semester Exam
Online Text/eBook
- Prentice Hall Literature: Grade 10
Textbook/Novel
- Things Fall Apart
- Prentice Hall Literature Penguin: Grade 10
- Pren-Hall Writing and Grammar: (Gold) Gr 10 (opt)
- Of Mice and Men
- The Joy Luck Club
Workbook
- Prentice Hall Skills Development Workbook:Grade 10
- Prentice Hall Reader's Notebook: Grade 10
English 10 B
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of English 10 A
Description:
This is the second of two courses that comprise English 10. In this course, the student continues to explore selections from world literature, including well-known works from American and British literature as well as works from other cultures. In addition to reading fiction and nonfiction, the student will read works of drama and poetry, analyzing the key elements of these genres. The student will also explore the universal themes that recur in literary works from diverse cultures and historical periods. These include longer works of literature, such as William Shakespeare's Julius Caesar and Amy Tan's The Joy Luck Club. Ernest Hemingway's The Old Man and the Sea may be read instead of The Joy Luck Club.
Writing instruction focuses on analytical and expository writing, including in-depth instruction in the process of writing a research paper. This project teaches students to critically analyze primary and secondary sources and to effectively support their own ideas with information gathered from outside sources. Throughout the course, the student expands his or her vocabulary through reading. Mastery of critical vocabulary and grammar skills helps the student become a more thoughtful and effective reader and writer.
Units:
Poetry
In this unit, you will read different genres of poetry. These include traditional Western forms, such as the sonnet, and traditional Eastern forms, such as the tanka. Throughout the unit, you will explore writers' use of various poetic devices and techniques, such as imagery, figurative language, and different patterns of rhyme and meter. As part of your writing portfolio, you will write a descriptive essay.
The Research Paper
In this unit, you will develop critical reading and analytical writing skills as you research and write about a topic of your choice. The lessons in the unit are designed to guide you through the challenging but rewarding process of writing a research paper. You will complete this project in three main phases. First you will choose a topic, form research questions, and gather information. Next you will spend time organizing and analyzing your research findings. Then you will work to integrate your own ideas with information from your research to create an effective, well-supported research paper. This unit differs from other units in the English 10 A and B courses because it includes fewer reading assignments from your textbooks. Most of the reading you complete will be conducted as part of your research. Please note that it is especially important that you complete and turn in writing assignments consistently throughout this unit since each new assignment builds on the work previously completed. Completing assignments on time and in order will help ensure that you have adequate time to develop and refine your ideas and to incorporate feedback from your teacher.
Drama
In this unit, you will learn about the elements of drama, which include elements found in other types of fiction as well as elements that are unique to plays. You will read two major dramatic works—Antigone, by the ancient Greek playwright Sophocles, and Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare. In reading these plays, you will identify universal themes that recur in the dramatic works of different cultures and time periods. As part of your writing portfolio, you will write a reflective essay and an analytical essay about Julius Caesar.
The Joy Luck Club
The Joy Luck Club tells the stories of two generations of Chinese American women. The first generation—Suyuan, An-mei, Lindo, and Ying-ying—immigrates to the United States in the late 1940s. Their daughters—Jing-mei, Rose, Waverly, and Lena—grow up near San Francisco.
The novel is structured as a series of interlocking stories, each of which is narrated by one of the major characters. Some of the stories take place in China in the first half of the twentieth century, while others are set in the United States after 1950.
The lives of the eight women in The Joy Luck Club are linked, not only through their relationships with each other but also through common experiences. In telling their stories, author Amy Tan depicts the struggle of mothers and daughters who try to connect despite generational and cultural barriers. She also explores the common themes woven throughout the lives of both generations of women.
Themes in Literature: Heroes and Dreamers
In this unit, you will learn about universal themes that link literary works from diverse cultures and time periods. These include themes that originated in literature passed down orally as well as written works. You will read excerpts from myths and epics from diverse cultures and identify common elements that link these different works.
Semester Exam
Online Text/eBook
- Prentice Hall Literature: Grade 10
Textbook/Novel
- Things Fall Apart
- Prentice Hall Literature Penguin: Grade 10
- Pren-Hall Writing and Grammar: (Gold) Gr 10 (opt)
- Of Mice and Men
- The Joy Luck Club
Workbook
- Prentice Hall Skills Development Workbook:Grade 10
- Prentice Hall Reader's Notebook: Grade 10
English 11 A
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Description:
The first of two eleventh grade English courses, English 11 A provides students with an in-depth look at early American literature from the precolonial writings of the first explorers to 19th century works, including Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass and Hawthorne’s The Scarlet Letter. Elie Wiesel's Night and Charles Dickens's Oliver Twist may be read instead of Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass and The Scarlet Letter with prior teacher approval. Vocabulary development and mastery of critical grammar and communication skills prepare students for real-world applications of writing in their daily lives.
Units:
Literature of Early America
In this unit you will encounter a variety of Native American works, including a selection from the Iroquois Constitution. You will gain greater insight into Puritan values and style as they read both poetry and prose from this group of writers with strong religious beliefs. You will learn strategies for preparing to take standardized tests and read an excerpt from a journal written by Christopher Columbus.
Early National Literature
In this unit you will read and compare two speeches that demonstrate the fiery oratorical style that helped inspire Americans to revolutionary fervor. You will continue to compare a variety of texts--including poetry, letters, and excerpts from two of Ben Franklin’s most famous writings. You will analyze persuasive techniques, write a persuasive essay, and prepare a persuasive speech.
Nineteenth-Century Literature
In this unit you will examine writing from a period in U.S. history when American writers were developing their own unique voices. You will read prose selections from Washington Irving, Edgar Allen Poe, Ralph Waldo Emerson, and Henry David Thoreau, as well as the poetry of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, Emily Dickinson, and Walt Whitman.
Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass
In this unit, you will examine the autobiography of Frederick Douglass, a former slave who furthered the abolitionist movement and became a respected American writer and orator. You will analyze the historical and social contexts of Douglass’s autobiography, identify literary elements, and study vocabulary. You will also be encouraged to evaluate the author’s message.
Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass is the recommended novel for English 11. Elie Wiesel's novella Night may be read instead of Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass with prior teacher approval. Lessons and activities for Night will appear on the lower half of lesson pages. Do not proceed with Night unless you have received approval from your teacher.
The Scarlet Letter
In this unit, students will examine the cultural and historical context for The Scarlet Letter. You will also explore symbols used in the novel, examine themes, and analyze the relationship between the narrator and reader.
The Scarlet Letter is the recommended novel for English 11. Charles Dickens's novel Oliver Twist may be read instead of The Scarlet Letter with prior teacher approval. Lessons and activities for Oliver Twist will appear on the lower half of the lesson pages.
English 11 A Final Exam
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to prepare for and take the final exam. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes in the order of the course outline before you begin to review. Using the test-taking strategies that you have previously learned can help you be successful with both objective and essay questions.
Online Text/eBook
- Prentice Hall Literature:The American Experience
Textbook/Novel
- Pren-Hall Writing and Grammar (Ruby Level) (opt)
- Pren- Hall Lit: The American Experience (opt)
- The Scarlet Letter
- Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass
- The Great Gatsby
- A Raisin in the Sun
- Silent Spring
Workbook
- Prentice Hall Reader's Notebook: Grade 11
English 11 B
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of English 11 A
Description:
English 11 B continues the examination of American literature, beginning with the Age of Realism (influenced by the Civil War and the antebellum period) through the modern era. In addition to studying a broad range of literary works, from Mark Twain to Willa Cather to Julia Alverez, students master critical reading, analysis, research, and assessment skills. The course also includes alternative novel selections that students may read.
Units:
The Age of Realism
In this unit you will read selections from American literature written during one of the most dramatic periods in American history 1850-1914. The American experience during the Civil War is chronicled in the thousands of diaries, letters, speeches, and journals written during this time. Voices from the frontier also emerged as talented writers from the Midwest and Southwest documented their lives.
The Modern Age
In this unit you will analyze text selections written in the early twentieth century. These selections reflect the pain and disillusionment Americans felt between the two world wars. You will read and compare literary works from T.S. Eliot, John Steinbeck, E. E. Cummings, Ernest Hemingway, Zora Neale Hurston, and Langston Hughes. You will write a research paper using the MLA format.
The Great Gatsby
In this unit, you will examine the narrative structure of The Great Gatsby, a book that chronicles life in New York during the Jazz Age, or Roaring Twenties. You will analyze characterization, symbolism, and conflict in the novel.
The Great Gatsby is the recommended novel for English 11. Fitzgerald's novel This Side of Paradise may be read instead of The Great Gatsby with prior teacher approval. Lessons and activities for This Side of Paradise will appear on the lower half of the page, as seen below. Do not proceed with This Side of Paradise unless you have received approval from your teacher.
The Contemporary Period
In this unit you will read selections from a variety of writers representing the modern American experience. The text selections written during this time of prosperity and protest reflect the diverse groups in America who have asserted their rights over the years. Students will learn to appreciate the diversity of contemporary literature by reading a wide variety of short stories, essays, and poems.
The Crucible
In this unit you will examine the idea of theater as a bridge between cultures. You will read Arthur Miller’s play The Crucible and analyze the cultural and historical context for the drama. Miller examined events in his own time that had parallels with events from another period in United States history.
A Raisin in the Sun
In this unit you will read Lorraine Hansberry’s play, A Raisin in the Sun, and explore the family dynamics of the Youngers, a black family living in Chicago in the 1950s. You will analyze the elements of drama, especially the stage directions and dialogue, which give insights into the Younger family. You will also learn about the cultural and historical context of the play.
Silent Spring
In this unit, you will read and analyze selections from Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring. This groundbreaking and controversial work of nonfiction was published in 1962, but it still resonates today. You will learn about the author’s life and examine the controversy surrounding the book. You will summarize the author’s argument and identify examples of biased language.
Silent Spring is the recommended novel for English 11. Jane Austen's novel Pride and Prejudice may be read instead of Silent Spring with prior teacher approval. Lessons and activities for Pride and Prejudice will appear on the lower half of the lesson pages.
Final Exam
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to prepare for and take the final exam. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes in the order of the course outline before you begin to review. Using the test-taking strategies that you have previously learned can help you be successful with both objective and essay questions.
Online Text/eBook
- Prentice Hall Literature:The American Experience
Textbook/Novel
- Pren-Hall Writing and Grammar (Ruby Level) (opt)
- Pren- Hall Lit: The American Experience (opt)
- The Scarlet Letter
- Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass
- The Great Gatsby
- A Raisin in the Sun
- Silent Spring
Workbook
- Prentice Hall Reader's Notebook: Grade 11
English 12 A
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Description:
This is the first of two courses that comprise English 12. In this course, the student will take an in-depth look at early British literature from 449 to 1798 and will examine literary forms including the epic, drama, and the essay. The student will also read longer selections of literature that are representative of the historical setting, including Shakespeare's Macbeth. The student will read to gain an understanding and appreciation of the historical context from which the literature arose. Vocabulary development and mastery of critical grammar and communication skills prepare the student for writing responses to literature and essays.
Units:
Old English and Medieval Period: 449–1485 AD
In this unit, you will read the earliest works of English literature. More than a millennium old, many of these works were passed down orally for centuries before they were written down. Anglo-Saxon literature includes lyric poems that express emotion, as well as the earliest epic poem of the English language, Beowulf, which presents the adventures of a hero who is larger than life. Additionally, you will read literary works composed during the medieval era. These include Chaucer's narrative poem The Canterbury Tales, which presents various figures of medieval English society and the tales they tell while traveling on a long journey, and Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, a narrative poem based on the legends of King Arthur and his court. Finally, you will use the writing process to compose responses to literature.
Celebrating Humanity: 1485–1625
In this unit, you will read English literature of the Renaissance, an exciting period of rapid social and technological change. The first portion of this unit focuses on Renaissance poetry. Featured poets include Edmund Spenser, Philip Sidney, Christopher Marlowe, Sir Walter Raleigh, and William Shakespeare. These poets used various forms, including the pastoral poem and variations on the sonnet, to address universal themes, such as the nature of love and the inevitability of growing old. Next you will read Macbeth, one of Shakespeare's best-known tragedies. This dark and powerful drama presents the tale of a man whose arrogance and ambition lead him to ruin. Finally you will further develop your writing skills by writing an analysis of a sonnet and an essay exploring the characters and themes of Macbeth.
A Turbulent Time: 1625–1798
In this unit, you will read English literature of the 1600s and 1700s. The first portion of this unit focuses on poetry. Featured poets include John Donne, Andrew Marvell, Robert Herrick, John Suckling, and John Milton. In different ways, each of these poets explored the theme of how a person should make the most of his or her limited time on earth. Next you will read an excerpt from Milton's epic poem Paradise Lost, which draws on the Biblical story of Adam and Eve's fall from grace. You will read Samuel Pepys' and Daniel Defoe's prose accounts of crises that affected London in the 1660s. Additional works by authors of the early 1700s, including Jonathan Swift and Alexander Pope, use different forms of satire—fiction, poetry, and essays—to criticize the flaws of human nature and human society.
Online Text/eBook
- Prentice Hall Literature: The British Tradition
Textbook/Novel
- Pren- Hall Literature: The British Tradition (opt)
Workbook
- PH Skills Development Workbook: British Tradition
English 12 B
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of English 12 A
Description:
This is the second of two courses that comprise English 12. In this course, the student will take an in-depth look at British literature from 1798 to the present and will examine literary forms including lyric poetry, the novel, and the short story. The student will also read longer selections of literature that are representative of the historical setting, including Frankenstein. Shakespeare's Othello may be read instead of Frankenstein. The student will read to gain an understanding and appreciation of the historical context from which the literature arose. Vocabulary development and mastery of critical grammar and communication skills prepare the student for writing responses to literature and essays.
Units:
Rebels and Dreamers: The Romantic Period
In this unit, you will read English literature of the Romantic period, which lasted from the late 1700s through the 1830s. Romantic writers—influenced by the French and American revolutionary wars and concerned with social and political change in England—rebelled against the artistic constraints of the eighteenth century. Major writers of the early Romantic period include William Blake, William Wordsworth, and Samuel Taylor Coleridge. In poetry and, occasionally, in prose, these writers explored themes such as mankind's relationship to nature, the purpose of art, and the complexities of surviving in an increasingly industrialized society. Later Romantic writers, such as Lord Byron, Percy and Mary Shelley, and John Keats, continued to address these themes, often relying on exotic, Gothic imagery for effect. In this unit, you will read poetry by the best-known writers of this period. You will also begin planning your research paper for the semester.
Frankenstein
Frankenstein is the story of a young man, Victor Frankenstein, who becomes obsessed with studying anatomy and determined to understand how life is created. Passionate about science and dedicated to his dream, he creates a living being; however, his success dramatically affects his life and the lives of his family and friends. The details of Victor’s life are shared through letters from Robert Walton, an English explorer on an expedition to the North Pole, to his sister Margaret Seville in England. Robert learns Victor’s tragic tale when he rescues Victor, who is traveling by himself in the Arctic.
In this unit, you will identify literary elements, analyze characters, use comprehension strategies to make connections and draw conclusions, and define unfamiliar vocabulary words.
Frankenstein is the recommended novel for English 12. Shakespeare's play Othello may be read in lieu of Frankenstein with prior teacher approval. Lessons and activities for Othello will appear on the lower half of the lesson pages.
Progress and Decline: The Victorian Period
This unit presents English literature of the Victorian period, which lasted from the 1830s through the end of Queen Victoria's reign in 1901. During this time period, Britain became a formidable economic and military power with colonies in Asia and Africa. As Britain's economy became more industrialized, many leaders became concerned with social reform. These concerns are reflected in the poetry and prose of this period. Some Victorian writers explored the harsh realities of life in industrial nineteenth-century England, while others turned to art and mythology for inspiration. In this unit, you will read works by major Victorian writers, including Alfred, Lord Tennyson, Robert and Elizabeth Browning, Charles Dickens, and Charlotte and Emily Brontë, among others. You will also continue working on your research paper for the semester.
A Time of Rapid Change: 1901 to the Present
In this unit, you will read English literature of the twentieth century, a period when England and the rest of Europe witnessed many social, political, and technological changes. Just a few short years after the end of Queen Victoria's reign, World War I and the Russian Revolution dramatically altered the existing balance of power in Europe. Later, the Great Depression and World War II further destabilized the continent. Nations that had once been colonized and controlled by Great Britain finally achieved independence, and Britain declined as an economic and military power. All of these changes made an impact on English literature. Many writers expressed a sense of uncertainty and instability; some directly addressed the brutality of war. In both poetry and prose, writers experimented with new forms and techniques that influenced the development of modern English and American literature.
This unit features works by the major English poets and fiction writers of the twentieth century, including William Butler Yeats, T. S. Eliot, Doris Lessing, James Joyce, and Virginia Woolf. During this time period, writers from former British colonies emerged as some of the most powerful new voices in English literature; you will read the work of some of these writers, such as Anita Desai. You will also complete your research paper and write a persuasive essay.
Online Text/eBook
- Prentice Hall Literature: The British Tradition
- Frankenstein
Textbook/Novel
- Pren- Hall Literature: The British Tradition (opt)
Workbook
- PH Skills Development Workbook: British Tradition
English 9 A
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Description:
This is the first of two courses that comprise English 9. In this course, the student will take an in-depth look at a variety of literature selections. In reading and responding to these diverse selections, the student will gain a thorough understanding of fiction and nonfiction genres, including short stories, essays, poetry, and drama. The student will also read Jack London's The Call of the Wild. This selection enables the student to explore universal themes and make connections between the characters' experiences and his own. Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird may be read instead of The Call of the Wild. Writing instruction focuses on analytical and expository writing but also provides opportunities for the student to write creatively.
Units:
Growing Up
In this unit, you will analyze fiction, nonfiction, and poetry selections focused on the theme of growing up. As you read, you will apply active reading strategies, such as making inferences and forming personal connections with the text. You will also learn to understand and analyze elements of prose and poetry, such as point of view, character, setting, symbolism, and metaphor. Throughout the unit, you will also learn strategies for learning new vocabulary, such as understanding word roots, prefixes, and suffixes. Grammar instruction will focus on reviewing the eight parts of speech. Finally, you will develop your writing skills as you create a personal narrative.
The Forces of Nature
In this unit, you will analyze fiction, nonfiction, and poetry selections about the natural world, with a focus on nonfiction selections. As you read, you will apply active reading strategies such as analyzing details and using text features and graphics to understand informational texts. You will also learn to understand and analyze elements of prose and poetry such as imagery, irony, figurative language, and text structure. Throughout the unit, you will also learn strategies for learning new vocabulary, with a focus on using context clues and understanding multiple-meaning words. Grammar instruction will focus on understanding the components of a sentence and using different sentence types. Finally, you will develop your writing skills as you create a descriptive essay.
The Call of the Wild
Jack London’s The Call of the Wild follows the journey of Buck, a magnificent St. Bernard/Scotch shepherd dog, as he is kidnapped from comfortable surroundings and thrown into the harsh frontier life of the 1897 gold rush in the arctic North. You will read of how he not only adapts to new conditions but also awakens to ancient instincts as he triumphs despite and amidst the new challenges of his changing environment. In this unit, you will identify and analyze literary elements, discover new vocabulary terms, and use comprehension strategies to make connections and draw conclusions.
The Call of the Wild is the recommended novel for English 9. Harper Lee's novel To Kill a Mockingbird may be read instead of The Call of the Wild with prior teacher approval. Lessons and activities for To Kill a Mockingbird will appear on the lower half of the page, as seen below. Do not proceed with To Kill a Mockingbird unless you have received approval from your teacher.
Other Worlds
In this unit, you will read and analyze works of science fiction that depict imaginary worlds. Additionally, you will read essays that explore how science fiction and video games have influenced our culture. As you read, you will continue to apply active reading strategies, such as analyzing details and summarizing, to help prepare you to critique these texts. You will analyze how the elements of short stories are used in the science-fiction genre and compare stories within this genre before writing a critical response to a short story. Throughout the unit, you will also learn strategies for understanding scientific and technical vocabulary in context. Grammar instruction will focus on using punctuation correctly and following standard conventions for using italics and quotation marks.
Crossing Borders
In this unit, you will read and analyze works of fiction and nonfiction that explore the theme of crossing borders. These borders may be physical—for instance, the geographical borders between two countries—or psychological. You will apply active reading strategies such as making predictions, understanding text structures, and understanding the author’s purpose. You will analyze writers’ use of figurative language, dialect, and tone, as well as their techniques for developing conflict. As part of your exploration of the theme of crossing borders, you will write an informational essay about a cultural tradition. Throughout the unit, you will also practice the strategies for understanding vocabulary that you have learned throughout the semester. Grammar instruction will focus on phrases and clauses.
Semester Exam
Online Text/eBook
- The Call of the Wild
- Pathways: Literature for Readers and Writers
- Essential Guide to Language, Writing, & Literature
English 9 B
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Description:
This is the second of two courses that comprise English 9. In this course, the student continues to explore a variety of literature selections from world literature, including well-known works. The student will learn strategies for reading epic poetry and study the characteristics of suspense stories. Also, the student will analyze the elements of drama as he reads William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. George Orwell's Animal Farm may be read instead of Romeo and Juliet.
Writing instruction focuses on analytical and expository writing including in-depth instruction in the process of writing a research paper. This project teaches the student to critically analyze primary and secondary sources and to effectively support his ideas with information gathered from outside sources.
Units:
Echoes from the Past
In this unit, you will analyze fiction, nonfiction, and poetry selections focused on ancient myths and literature. As you read, you will apply active reading strategies, such as making inferences and forming personal connections with the text. You will also learn to understand and analyze elements of epic poetry such as myth, figurative language, character, and tone. Throughout the unit, you will also learn strategies for learning new vocabulary, such as understanding multiple-meaning words and using a dictionary. Grammar instruction will focus on reviewing the use of pronouns. Finally, you will develop your writing skills as you create a summary for one of the selections in this unit.
Romeo and Juliet
William Shakespeare’s classic tragedy Romeo and Juliet tells the story of two youths desperately in love with each other despite the feud that exists between their two families. They are secretly married, but on the same day as their marriage, Romeo is banished for killing Juliet’s kinsman. While he is gone, Juliet fakes her death by taking a poisonous potion in order to avoid an arranged marriage. Romeo does not learn in time that she is not really dead, and kills himself as a result. Upon waking, Juliet discovers Romeo and joins him in death. Through Shakespeare’s timeless story, you will identify and analyze literary and dramatic elements, discover new vocabulary terms, and use comprehension strategies to make connections and draw conclusions.
Romeo and Juliet is the recommended text for English 9. George Orwell's novel Animal Farm may be read instead of Romeo and Juliet with prior teacher approval. Lessons and activities for Animal Farm will appear on the lower half of the lesson pages.
The Dark Side
In this unit, you will analyze fiction, nonfiction, and poetry selections belonging to the suspense and horror genres. As you read, you will apply active reading strategies, such as making predictions and asking questions to better understand the text. You will also learn to understand and analyze elements of suspense and horror narratives such as foreshadowing, stock characters and archetypes, and the role of unreliable narrators. You will also examine literary elements such as poetic devices and tone. Throughout the unit, you will also learn strategies for learning new vocabulary, such as understanding denotation and connotation and the use of archaic language. Grammar instruction will focus on reviewing the rules of subject-verb agreement and the use of adjectives and adverbs.
The Research Paper
In this unit, you will develop important reading and analytical writing skills as you research and write about a topic of your choice. The lessons in the unit are planned to guide you through the challenging but rewarding process of writing a research paper. You will complete this project in three main phases:
- forming research questions and gathering information
- organizing and analyzing your research findings
- combining your own ideas with information from your research to create an effective, well-supported research paper
This unit differs from other units in the English 9 course in that it includes fewer reading assignments from your textbooks. Most of the reading you complete will be conducted as part of your research.
Please note that it is especially important that you complete and turn in writing assignments consistently throughout this unit, since each new assignment builds on the work completed previously. Completing assignments on time and in order will help ensure that you have adequate time to develop and refine your ideas and to incorporate feedback from your teacher.
What Has Value?
In this unit, you will read fiction and poetry selections that analyze people’s differing values. As you read, you will apply active reading strategies, such as comparing texts and differentiating between fact and opinion. You will also learn to understand and analyze literary elements such as theme, tone, plot twist, and repetition. Throughout the unit, you will also review strategies for learning new vocabulary, such as understanding multiple-meaning words and using a dictionary. Finally, grammar instruction will focus on reviewing the skills taught earlier in the semester.
Semester Exam
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to prepare for and take the final exam for the concepts you learned throughout the semester. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes in the order of the course outline before you begin to review. Using the test-taking strategies that you have previously learned can help you be successful with both objective and essay questions.
Online Text/eBook
- Pathways: Literature for Readers and Writers
- Essential Guide to Language, Writing, & Literature
- Romeo and Juliet
Honors English 10 A
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Description:
This is the first of two courses that comprise Honors English 10. In this course, the student will take an in-depth look at selections from world literature, including well-known works from American and British literature as well as works from other cultures. In reading these diverse selections, the student will gain a thorough understanding of fiction and nonfiction genres, including short stories, essays, and speeches. The student will also read Mark Twain's Adventures of Huckleberry Finn and Chinua Achebe's Things Fall Apart. Jack London’s The Call of the Wild and Francisco Jiménez'sReaching Out may be read instead of Adventures of Huckleberry Finn and Things Fall Apart. These selections teach the student to understand longer works of literature in their historical and literary context.
Writing instruction focuses on analytical and expository writing but also provides opportunities for the student to write creatively. Throughout the course, the student expands his or her vocabulary through reading. Mastery of critical vocabulary and grammar skills helps the student become a more thoughtful and effective reader and writer.
The Honors course includes more rigorous curriculum and provides greater opportunities for students to explore concepts, engage in independent research, and demonstrate critical thinking skills.
Units:
Fiction and Nonfiction
In this unit, you will learn about the characteristics of fiction and nonfiction. As you read a variety of selections from American, English, and world literature, you will apply reading strategies such as making and revising predictions about the text and analyzing causes and effects. You will also learn strategies for reading informational texts. In addition, you will develop your writing skills as you create an autobiographical narrative and a cause-and-effect essay.
Short Stories
In this unit, you will explore the characteristics of fiction in greater depth by reading and analyzing a variety of short stories. As you read, you will deepen your understanding of literary elements such as plot, conflict, characterization, setting, and theme. Additionally, you will practice strategies that can help you better understand and appreciate the short-story genre, such as making inferences and drawing conclusions. Finally, you will develop your writing skills as you draft a short story and a comparison of two literary works.
Adventures of Huckleberry Finn
Adventures of Huckleberry Finn is the story of a free-thinking street kid, Huck Finn, and a slave named Jim, both of whom choose to flee their oppressive lives. The two set out on a trip down the Mississippi River that is filled with adventures and experiences that are unique to the particular class of characters and setting during the mid-nineteenth century. The novel’s title is sometimes extended to include “(Tom Sawyer’s Comrade)” to indicate to readers that this is a companion novel to Adventures of Tom Sawyer, told as a first-person narrative from Huck’s point of view. Prior knowledge of Tom Sawyer, however, is not required. In this unit, the student will identify literary elements, analyze characters, use comprehension strategies to make connections and draw conclusions, and define unfamiliar vocabulary words. Students will also respond to literature with creative and essay writing assignments.
Types of Nonfiction
This unit focuses on the characteristics of effective essays and speeches. In this unit, you will read essays and speeches created for a variety of different purposes. These include narratives that communicate the writer's personal experiences, expository writing that explains and informs, and persuasive works that urge readers toward a particular belief or course of action. In addition to analyzing written texts, you will explore the elements that make orally delivered speeches effective. Reading persuasive texts will also guide you in developing your own persuasive writing skills as you compose a brief letter to the editor and a longer persuasive essay.
Things Fall Apart
Things Fall Apart is the story of Okonkwo, a member of the Ibo tribe in Nigeria, and his family. They live in the village of Umuofia at the turn of the century. A strong, self-made man, Okonkwo is hardworking and proud, but often harsh and sometimes violent. Though he cares about his family, he is an authoritarian husband and father, unable to bear any sign of weakness. Okonkwo tries to live in accord with Ibo traditions and has become a highly respected member of his community. But a tragic accident sets Okonkwo on a more difficult path, and when Christian missionaries come to Nigeria, the Ibo's entire way of life is threatened.
Things Fall Apart is the recommended novel for English 10. Francisco Jiminez's novel Reaching Out may be read instead of Things Fall Apart with prior teacher approval. Lessons and activities for Reaching Out will appear on the lower half of the lesson pages.
Semester Exam
Online Text/eBook
- Prentice Hall Literature: Grade 10
Textbook/Novel
- Things Fall Apart
- Prentice Hall Literature Penguin: Grade 10
- Pren-Hall Writing and Grammar: (Gold) Gr 10 (opt)
- The Joy Luck Club
- Huckleberry Finn
Workbook
- Prentice Hall Skills Development Workbook:Grade 10
- Prentice Hall Reader's Notebook: Grade 10
Honors English 10 B
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of Honors English 10 A
Description:
This is the second of two courses that comprise Honors English 10. In this course, the student continues to explore selections from world literature, including well-known works from American and British literature as well as works from other cultures. In addition to reading fiction and nonfiction, the student will read works of drama and poetry, analyzing the key elements of these genres. The student will also explore the universal themes that recur in literary works from diverse cultures and historical periods. These include longer works of literature, such as William Shakespeare's Julius Caesar and Amy Tan's The Joy Luck Club. Ernest Hemingway's The Old Man and the Sea may be read instead of The Joy Luck Club.
Writing instruction focuses on analytical and expository writing, including in-depth instruction in the process of writing a research paper. This project teaches students to critically analyze primary and secondary sources and to effectively support their own ideas with information gathered from outside sources. Throughout the course, the student expands his or her vocabulary through reading. Mastery of critical vocabulary and grammar skills helps the student become a more thoughtful and effective reader and writer.
The Honors course includes more rigorous curriculum and provides greater opportunities for students to explore concepts, engage in independent research, and demonstrate critical thinking skills.
Units:
Poetry
In this unit, you will read different genres of poetry. These include traditional Western forms, such as the sonnet, and traditional Eastern forms, such as the haiku. Throughout the unit, you will explore writers' use of various poetic devices and techniques, such as imagery, figurative language, and different patterns of rhyme and meter. As part of your writing portfolio, you will write a descriptive essay.
The Research Paper
In this unit, you will develop critical reading and analytical writing skills as you research and write about a topic of your choice. The lessons in the unit are designed to guide you through the challenging but rewarding process of writing a research paper. You will complete this project in three main phases:
- forming research questions and gathering information
- organizing and analyzing your research findings
- integrating your own ideas with information from your research to create an effective, well-supported research paper.
This unit differs from other units in the English 10 course in that it includes fewer reading assignments from your textbooks. Most of the reading you complete will be conducted as part of your research.
Please note that it is especially important that you complete and turn in writing assignments consistently throughout this unit, since each new assignment builds on the work completed previously. Completing assignments on time and in order will help ensure that you have adequate time to develop and refine your ideas and to incorporate feedback from your teacher.
Drama
In this unit, you will learn about the elements of drama, which include elements found in other types of fiction as well as elements that are unique to plays. You will read two major dramatic works— Antigone, by the ancient Greek playwright Sophocles, and Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare. In reading these plays, you will identify universal themes that recur in the dramatic works of different cultures and time periods. As part of your writing portfolio, you will write a reflective essay and an analytical essay about Julius Caesar .
The Joy Luck Club
The Joy Luck Club tells the stories of two generations of Chinese American women. The first generation—Suyuan, An-mei, Lindo, and Ying-ying—immigrates to the United States in the late 1940s. Their daughters—Jing-mei, Rose, Waverly, and Lena—grow up near San Francisco.
The novel is structured as a series of interlocking stories, each of which is narrated by one of the major characters. Some of the stories take place in China in the first half of the 20th century, while others are set in the United States after 1950.
The lives of the eight women in The Joy Luck Club are linked, not only through their relationships with each other but also through common experiences. In telling their stories, author Amy Tan depicts the struggle of mothers and daughters who try to connect despite generational and cultural barriers. She also explores the common themes woven throughout the lives of both generations of women.
Themes in Literature: Heroes and Dreamers
In this unit, you will learn about universal themes that link literary works from diverse cultures and time periods. These include themes that originated in literature passed down orally as well as written works. You will read excerpts from myths and epics from diverse cultures and identify common elements that link these different works.
Semester Exam
Online Text/eBook
- Prentice Hall Literature: Grade 10
Textbook/Novel
- Things Fall Apart
- Prentice Hall Literature Penguin: Grade 10
- Pren-Hall Writing and Grammar: (Gold) Gr 10 (opt)
- The Joy Luck Club
- Huckleberry Finn
Workbook
- Prentice Hall Skills Development Workbook:Grade 10
- Prentice Hall Reader's Notebook: Grade 10
Honors English 11 A
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Description:
This is the first of two courses that comprise Honors English 11. In this course, the student will take an in-depth look at early American literature from the pre-colonial writings of the first explorers to nineteenth century works, including Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass and Hawthorne’s The Scarlet Letter. Elie Wiesel's Night and Charles Dickens's Oliver Twist may be read instead of Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass and The Scarlet Letter. Vocabulary development and mastery of critical grammar and communication skills prepare the student for real-world applications of writing. The Honors course includes more rigorous curriculum and provides greater opportunities for students to explore concepts, engage in independent research, and demonstrate critical thinking skills.
Units:
Literature of Early America
In this unit you will encounter a variety of Native American works, including a selection from the Iroquois Constitution. You will gain greater insight into Puritan values and style as they read both poetry and prose from this group of writers with strong religious beliefs. You will learn strategies for preparing to take standardized tests and read an excerpt from a journal written by Christopher Columbus.
Early National Literature
In this unit you will read and compare two speeches that demonstrate the fiery oratorical style that helped inspire Americans to revolutionary fervor. You will continue to compare a variety of texts--including poetry, letters, and excerpts from two of Ben Franklin’s most famous writings. You will analyze persuasive techniques, write a persuasive essay, and prepare a persuasive speech.
Nineteenth-Century Literature
In this unit you will examine writing from a period in U.S. history when American writers were developing their own unique voices. You will read prose selections from Washington Irving, Edgar Allen Poe, Ralph Waldo Emerson, and Henry David Thoreau, as well as the poetry of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, Emily Dickinson, and Walt Whitman.
Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass
In this unit you will examine the autobiography of Frederick Douglass, a former slave who furthered the abolitionist movement and became a respected American writer and orator. You will analyze the historical and social contexts of Douglass’s autobiography, identify literary elements, and study vocabulary. You will also be encouraged to evaluate the author’s message.
The Scarlet Letter
In this unit, you will examine cultural and historical context for The Scarlet Letter. You will also explore symbols used in the novel, examine themes, and analyze the relationship between the narrator and reader.
The Scarlet Letter is the recommended novel for English 11. Charles Dickens's novel Oliver Twist may be read instead of The Scarlet Letter with prior teacher approval. Lessons and activities for Oliver Twist will appear on the lower half of the lesson pages.
Honors English 11 A Final Exam
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to prepare for and take the final exam. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes in the order of the course outline before you begin to review. Using the test-taking strategies that you have previously learned can help you be successful with both objective and essay questions.
Online Text/eBook
- Prentice Hall Literature:The American Experience
Textbook/Novel
- Pren-Hall Writing and Grammar (Ruby Level) (opt)
- Pren- Hall Lit: The American Experience (opt)
- The Scarlet Letter
- Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass
- The Great Gatsby
- A Raisin in the Sun
- Silent Spring
Workbook
- Prentice Hall Reader's Notebook: Grade 11
Honors English 11 B
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of Honors English 11 A
Description:
Honors English 11 B continues the examination of American literature, beginning with the Age of Realism (influenced by the Civil War and the antebellum period) and through the modern era. The Honors course includes more rigorous curriculum and provides greater opportunities for students explore concepts. In addition studying a broad range of literary works, from Mark Twain to Willa Cather to Julia Alverez, students master critical reading, analysis, research, and assessment skills. The course also includes alternative novel selections that students may read.
Units:
The Age of Realism
In this unit you will read selections from American literature written during one of the most dramatic periods in American history 1850-1914. The American experience during the Civil War is chronicled in the thousands of diaries, letters, speeches, and journals written during this time. Voices from the frontier also emerged as talented writers from the Midwest and Southwest documented their lives.
The Modern Age
In this unit you will analyze text selections written in the early twentieth century. These selections reflect the pain and disillusionment Americans felt between the two world wars. You will read and compare literary works from T.S. Eliot, John Steinbeck, E. E. Cummings, Ernest Hemingway, Zora Neale Hurston, and Langston Hughes. You will write a research paper using the MLA format.
The Great Gatsby
In this unit you will examine the narrative structure of The Great Gatsby, a book that chronicles life in New York during the Jazz Age, or Roaring Twenties. You will analyze characterization, symbolism, and conflict in the novel.
The Contemporary Period
In this unit you will read selections from a variety of writers representing the modern American experience. The text selections written during this time of prosperity and protest reflect the diverse groups in America who have asserted their rights over the years. Students will learn to appreciate the diversity of contemporary literature by reading a wide variety of short stories, essays, and poems.
The Crucible
In this unit you will examine the idea of theater as a bridge between cultures. You will read Arthur Miller’s play The Crucible and analyze the cultural and historical context for the drama. Miller examined events in his own time that had parallels with events from another period in United States history.
A Raisin in the Sun
In this unit you will read Lorraine Hansberry’s play, A Raisin in the Sun, and explore the family dynamics of the Youngers, a black family living in Chicago in the 1950s. You will analyze the elements of drama, especially the stage directions and dialogue, which give insights into the Younger family. You will also learn about the cultural and historical context of the play.
Silent Spring
In this unit you will read and analyze selections from Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring. This groundbreaking, but controversial, work of nonfiction was published in 1962 but still resonates today. You will learn about the author’s life and examine the controversy surrounding the book. You will summarize the author’s argument and identify examples of biased language.
Honors English 11 B Final Exam
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to prepare for and take the final exam. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes in the order of the course outline before you begin to review. Using the test-taking strategies that you have previously learned can help you be successful with both objective and essay questions.
Online Text/eBook
- Prentice Hall Literature:The American Experience
Textbook/Novel
- Pren-Hall Writing and Grammar (Ruby Level) (opt)
- Pren- Hall Lit: The American Experience (opt)
- The Scarlet Letter
- Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass
- The Great Gatsby
- A Raisin in the Sun
- Silent Spring
Workbook
- Prentice Hall Reader's Notebook: Grade 11
Honors English 12 A
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Description:
This is the first of two courses that comprise Honors English 12. In this course, the student will take an in-depth look at early British literature from 449 to 1798 and will examine literary forms including the epic, drama, and the essay. The student will also read longer selections of literature that are representative of the historical setting, including Shakespeare's Macbeth. The student will read to gain and understanding and appreciation of the historical context from which the literature arose. Vocabulary development and mastery of critical grammar and communication skills prepare the student for real-world applications of writing. The Honors course includes more rigorous curriculum and provides greater opportunities for students to explore concepts, engage in independent research, and demonstrate critical thinking skills.
Units:
Old English and Medieval Period: Legend to History
In this unit, you will read the earliest works of English literature. More than a millennium old, many of these works were passed down orally for centuries before they were written down. Anglo-Saxon literature includes lyric poems that expressed emotion, as well as the earliest epic poem of the English language, Beowulf, which presents the adventures of a hero who is larger than life. Additionally, you will read literary works composed during the medieval era. These include Chaucer's narrative poem The Canterbury Tales, which presents various figures of medieval English society and the tales they tell while traveling on a long journey, and Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, a narrative poem based on the legends of King Arthur and his court. Finally, you will use the writing process to compose responses to literature.
Celebrating Humanity: 1485–1625
In this unit, you will read English literature of the Renaissance, an exciting period of rapid social and technological change. The first portion of this unit focuses on Renaissance poetry. Featured poets include Edmund Spenser, Philip Sidney, Christopher Marlowe, Sir Walter Raleigh, and William Shakespeare. These poets used various forms, including the pastoral poem and variations on the sonnet, to address universal themes, such as the nature of love and the inevitability of growing old. Next you will read Macbeth, one of Shakespeare's best-known tragedies. This dark and powerful drama presents the tale of a man whose arrogance and ambition lead him to ruin. Finally, you will further develop your writing skills by writing an analysis of a sonnet and an essay exploring the characters and themes of Macbeth.
A Turbulent Time: 1625–1798
In this unit, you will read English literature of the 1600s and 1700s. The first portion of this unit focuses on poetry. Featured poets include John Donne, Andrew Marvell, Robert Herrick, John Suckling, and John Milton. In different ways, each of these poets explored the theme of how a person should make the most of his or her limited time on earth. Next you will read an excerpt from Milton's epic poem Paradise Lost, which draws on the Biblical story of Adam and Eve's fall from grace. You will read Samuel Pepys' and Daniel Defoe's prose accounts of crises that affected London in the 1660s. Additional works by authors of the early 1700s, including Jonathan Swift and Alexander Pope, use different forms of satire—fiction, poetry, and essays—to criticize the flaws of human nature and human society.
Online Text/eBook
- Prentice Hall Literature: The British Tradition
Textbook/Novel
- Pren- Hall Literature: The British Tradition (opt)
Workbook
- PH Skills Development Workbook: British Tradition
Honors English 12 B
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of Honors English 12 A
Description:
This is the second of two courses that comprise Honors English 12. In this course, the student will take an in-depth look at British literature from 1798 to the present and will examine literary forms including lyric poetry, the novel, and the short story. The student will also read longer selections of literature that are representative of the historical setting, including Frankenstein. Shakespeare's play Othello may be read instead of Frankenstein. The student will read to gain and understanding and appreciation of the historical context from which the literature arose. Vocabulary development and mastery of critical grammar and communication skills prepare the student for real-world applications of writing. The Honors course includes more rigorous curriculum and provides greater opportunities for students to explore concepts, engage in independent research, and demonstrate critical thinking skills.
Units:
Rebels and Dreamers: The Romantic Period
In this unit, you will read English literature of the Romantic period, which lasted from the late 1700s through the 1830s. Romantic writers—influenced by the French and American revolutionary wars and concerned with social and political change in England—rebelled against the artistic constraints of the eighteenth century. Major writers of the early Romantic period include William Blake, William Wordsworth, and Samuel Taylor Coleridge. In poetry and, occasionally, in prose, these writers explored themes such as mankind's relationship to nature, the purpose of art, and the complexities of surviving in an increasingly industrialized society. Later Romantic writers, such as Lord Byron, Percy and Mary Shelley, and John Keats, continued to address these themes, often relying on exotic, Gothic imagery for effect. In this unit, you will read poetry by the best-known writers of this period. You will also begin planning your research paper for the semester.
Frankenstein
Frankenstein is the story of a young man, Victor Frankenstein, who becomes obsessed with studying anatomy and determined to understand how life is created. Passionate about science and dedicated to his dream, he creates a living being; however, his success dramatically affects his life and the lives of his family and friends. The details of Victor’s life are shared through letters from Robert Walton, an English explorer on an expedition to the North Pole, to his sister Margaret Seville in England. Robert learns Victor’s tragic tale when he rescues Victor, who is traveling by himself in the Arctic.
In this unit, you will identify literary elements, analyze characters, use comprehension strategies to make connections and draw conclusions, and define unfamiliar vocabulary words.
Frankenstein is the recommended novel for English 12. Shakespeare's play Othello may be read instead of Frankenstein with prior teacher approval. Lessons and activities for Othello will appear on the lower half of the lesson pages.
Progress and Decline: The Victorian Period
This unit presents English literature of the Victorian period, which lasted from the 1830s through the end of Queen Victoria's reign in 1901. During this time period, Britain became a formidable economic and military power with colonies in Asia and Africa. As Britain's economy became more industrialized, many leaders became concerned with social reform. These concerns are reflected in the poetry and prose of this period. Some Victorian writers explored the harsh realities of life in industrial nineteenth-century England, while others turned to art and mythology for inspiration. In this unit, you will read works by major Victorian writers, including Alfred, Lord Tennyson, Robert and Elizabeth Browning, Charles Dickens, and Charlotte and Emily Brontë, among others. In addition, you will continue working on your research paper for the semester.
A Time of Rapid Change: 1901 to the Present
In this unit, you will read English literature of the twentieth century, a period when England and the rest of Europe witnessed many social, political, and technological changes. Just a few short years after the end of Queen Victoria's reign, World War I and the Russian Revolution dramatically altered the existing balance of power in Europe. Later, the Great Depression and World War II further destabilized the continent. Nations that had once been colonized and controlled by Great Britain finally achieved independence, and Britain declined as an economic and military power. All of these changes made an impact on English literature. Many writers expressed a sense of uncertainty and instability; some directly addressed the brutality of war. In both poetry and prose, writers experimented with new forms and techniques that influenced the development of modern English and American literature.
This unit features works by the major English poets and fiction writers of the twentieth century, including William Butler Yeats, T. S. Eliot, Doris Lessing, James Joyce, and Virginia Woolf, among others. During this time period, writers from former British colonies emerged as some of the most powerful new voices in English literature; you will read the work of some of these writers, such as Anita Desai. You will also complete your research paper and write a persuasive essay.
Online Text/eBook
- Prentice Hall Literature: The British Tradition
- Frankenstein
Textbook/Novel
- Pren- Hall Literature: The British Tradition (opt)
Workbook
- PH Skills Development Workbook: British Tradition
Honors English 9 A
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Description:
This is the first of two courses that comprise Honors English 9. In this course, the student will take an in-depth look at a variety of literature selections. In reading these diverse selections, the student will gain a thorough understanding of fiction and nonfiction genres, including short stories, essays, poetry, and drama. The student will also read Stephen Crane's The Red Badge of Courage. This selection enables the student to explore universal themes and make connections between the characters' experiences and his own. Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird may be read instead of The Red Badge of Courage. Writing instruction focuses on analytical and expository writing but also provides opportunities for the student to write creatively.
The Honors course includes more rigorous curriculum and provides greater opportunities for students to explore concepts, engage in independent research, and demonstrate critical thinking skills.
Units:
Growing Up
In this unit, you will analyze fiction, nonfiction, and poetry selections focused on the theme of growing up. As you read, you will apply active reading strategies, such as making inferences and forming personal connections with the text. You will also learn to understand and analyze elements of prose and poetry such as point of view, character, setting, symbolism, and metaphor. Throughout the unit, you will also learn strategies for learning new vocabulary, such as understanding word roots, prefixes, and suffixes. Grammar instruction will focus on reviewing the eight parts of speech. Finally, you will develop your writing skills as you create a personal narrative.
The Forces of Nature
In this unit, you will analyze fiction, nonfiction, and poetry selections about the natural world, with a focus on nonfiction selections. As you read, you will apply active reading strategies such as analyzing details and using text features and graphics to understand informational texts. You will also learn to understand and analyze elements of prose and poetry such as imagery, irony, figurative language, and text structure. Throughout the unit, you will also learn strategies for learning new vocabulary, with a focus on using context clues and understanding multiple-meaning words. Grammar instruction will focus on understanding the components of a sentence and using different sentence types. Finally, you will develop your writing skills as you create a descriptive essay.
The Red Badge of Courage
Stephen Crane’s The Red Badge of Courage relates a young man’s first experiences with war. Set during a Civil War battle and covering the space of only a few days, the reader sees through the eyes of new soldier Henry Fleming, seeing the frontline, hearing bullets whiz by, smelling the forest through which he tramps, and experiencing first-hand the mental and emotional challenges he faces. Crane’s novel was groundbreaking at the time of its publication for both the realism with which he portrayed war and the impressionistic overtones conveyed through the thoughts of the protagonist. In this unit, you will identify and analyze literary elements, discover new vocabulary terms, and use comprehension strategies to make connections and draw conclusions.
The Red Badge of Courage is the recommended novel for Honors English 9. Harper Lee's novel To Kill a Mockingbird may be read instead of The Red Badge of Courage with prior teacher approval. Lessons and activities for To Kill a Mockingbird will appear on the lower half of the lesson pages.
Other Worlds
In this unit, you will read and analyze works of science fiction that depict imaginary worlds. Additionally, you will read essays that explore how science fiction and video games have influenced our culture. As you read, you will continue to apply active reading strategies, such as analyzing details and summarizing, to help prepare you to critique these texts. You will analyze how the elements of short stories are used in the science fiction genre and compare stories within this genre before writing a critical response to a short story. Throughout the unit, you will also learn strategies for understanding scientific and technical vocabulary in context. Grammar instruction will focus on using punctuation correctly and following standard conventions for using italics and quotation marks.
Crossing Borders
In this unit, you will read and analyze works of fiction and nonfiction that explore the theme of crossing borders. These borders may be physical—for instance, the geographical borders between two countries—or psychological. You will apply active reading strategies such as making predictions, understanding text structures, and understanding the author’s purpose. You will analyze writers’ use of figurative language, dialect, and tone, as well as their techniques for developing conflict. As part of your exploration of the theme of crossing borders, you will write an informational essay about a cultural tradition. Throughout the unit, you will also practice the strategies for understanding vocabulary that you have learned throughout the semester. Grammar instruction will focus on phrases and clauses.
Semester Exam
Online Text/eBook
- Pathways: Literature for Readers and Writers
- Essential Guide to Language, Writing, & Literature
- The Red Badge of Courage
Honors English 9 B
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Description:
This is the second of two courses that comprise Honors English 9. In this course, the student continues to explore a variety of literature selections from world literature. The student will learn strategies for reading epic poetry and study the characteristics of suspense stories. Also, the student will analyze the elements of drama as he reads William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. George Orwell's Animal Farm may be read instead of Romeo and Juliet.
Writing instruction focuses on analytical and expository writing, including in-depth instruction in the process of writing a research paper. This project teaches the student to critically analyze primary and secondary sources and to effectively support his ideas with information gathered from outside sources.
The Honors course includes more rigorous curriculum and provides greater opportunities for students to explore concepts, engage in independent research, and demonstrate critical thinking skills.
Units:
Echoes from the Past
In this unit, you will analyze fiction and poetry selections focused on ancient myths and literature. As you read, you will apply active reading strategies such as making inferences and forming personal connections with the text. You will also learn to understand and analyze elements of epic poetry, such as myth, figurative language, character, and tone. Throughout the unit, you will also learn strategies for learning new vocabulary, such as understanding multiple-meaning words and using a dictionary. Grammar instruction will focus on reviewing the use of pronouns. Finally, you will develop your writing skills as you create a summary for one of the selections in this unit.
Romeo and Juliet
William Shakespeare’s classic tragedy Romeo and Juliet tells the story of two youths desperately in love with each other despite the feud that exists between their two families. They are secretly married, but on the same day as their marriage, Romeo is banished for killing Juliet’s kinsman. While he is gone, Juliet fakes her death by taking a poisonous potion in order to avoid an arranged marriage. Romeo does not learn in time that she is not really dead, and kills himself as a result. Upon waking, Juliet discovers Romeo and joins him in death. Through Shakespeare’s timeless story, you will identify and analyze literary and dramatic elements, discover new vocabulary terms, and use comprehension strategies to make connections and draw conclusions.
Romeo and Juliet is the recommended text for Honors English 9. George Orwell's novel Animal Farm may be read instead of Romeo and Juliet with prior teacher approval. Lessons and activities for Animal Farm will appear on the lower half of the lesson pages.
The Dark Side
In this unit, you will analyze fiction, nonfiction, and poetry selections belonging to the suspense and horror genres. As you read, you will apply active reading strategies, such as making predictions and asking questions to better understand the text. You will also learn to understand and analyze elements of suspense and horror narratives such as foreshadowing, stock characters and archetypes, and the role of unreliable narrators. You will also examine literary elements such as poetic devices and tone. Throughout the unit, you will also learn strategies for learning new vocabulary, such as understanding denotation and connotation and the use of archaic language. Grammar instruction will focus on reviewing the rules of subject-verb agreement and the use of adjectives and adverbs.
The Research Paper
In this unit, you will develop important reading and analytical writing skills as you research and write about a topic of your choice. The lessons in the unit are planned to guide you through the challenging but rewarding process of writing a research paper. You will complete this project in three main phases:
- forming research questions and gathering information
- organizing and analyzing your research findings
- combining your own ideas with information from your research to create an effective, well-supported research paper
This unit differs from other units in the English 9 course in that it includes fewer reading assignments from your textbooks. Most of the reading you complete will be conducted as part of your research.
Please note that it is especially important that you complete and turn in writing assignments consistently throughout this unit, since each new assignment builds on the work completed previously. Completing assignments on time and in order will help ensure that you have adequate time to develop and refine your ideas and to incorporate feedback from your teacher.
What Has Value?
In this unit, you will read fiction and poetry selections that analyze people’s differing values. As you read, you will apply active reading strategies, such as comparing texts and differentiating between fact and opinion. You will also learn to understand and analyze literary elements such as theme, tone, plot twist, and repetition. Throughout the unit, you will also review strategies for learning new vocabulary, such as understanding multiple-meaning words and using a dictionary. Finally, grammar instruction will focus on reviewing the skills taught earlier in the semester.
Semester Exam
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to prepare for and take the final exam for the concepts you learned throughout the semester. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes in the order of the course outline before you begin to review. Using the test-taking strategies that you have previously learned can help you be successful with both objective and essay questions.
Online Text/eBook
- Pathways: Literature for Readers and Writers
- Essential Guide to Language, Writing, & Literature
- Romeo and Juliet
Algebra 1 A
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11, 8
Credits: 0.50
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of Math 7 and/or Pre-Algebra
Description:
Algebra 1 A starts with a review of basic real number operations and properties, then continues on to more complicated concepts such as multi-step equations and inequalities, proportions (in preparation for graphing functions), variations, and linear equations. Coursework also includes problem-solving and test-taking strategies gearing students for continued study in high school and college.
Units:
Tools of Algebra
In this unit, you will review previously learned mathematical principles and extend prior mathematical knowledge. Concepts emphasized in this unit will reappear throughout the course, so take the time to complete each lesson carefully.
As you work through the unit, you will have the opportunity to model mathematical sentences using variables; evaluate expressions that include different forms of real numbers; apply the order of operations and the distributive property to simplify expressions; and describe and extend number patterns. Many problems in the unit are set in the context of real-life situations so that you can make connections between the mathematical ideas and their real-world applications.This unit contains material from more than one chapter of the textbook.
Graphs and Functions
In this unit, you will expand your knowledge of number relationships by relating descriptions of real-life situations to data in the form of tables, graphs, and equations. Specifically, you will sketch and analyze graphs in the coordinate plane, evaluate functions, model functions using rules, tables and graphs, and derive function rules from real-world situations. You will define the slope of a line as a rate of change in the horizontal and vertical points of a linear equation, and you will learn to describe a graph of a real-life situation based on its rate of change and starting amount. This unit contains material from more than one chapter of the textbook.
Solving Equations
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to develop and extend your understanding of how to solve problems by defining and comparing variables, translating sentences to equations, and simplifying and evaluating mathematical expressions.
Linear Equations and Their Graphs
In this unit, you will identify and write equations of direct variation. You will solve and graph linear equations. You will be able to determine the slope of a line or its x- and y-intercepts using a graph, two points on the line, or a form of the linear equation. You will create scatter plots and use slope to determine the line of best fit and correlation of the data. Utilizing your understanding of algebraic properties, you will manipulate linear equations to transform them into standard, point-slope, or slope-intercept form. You will apply your knowledge of slope to determine whether lines are parallel or perpendicular, as well as to write their equations. Finally, you will graph and write absolute value equations, as well as translate parent graphs.
This unit contains material from more than one chapter of the textbook.
Solving Inequalities
In this unit, you will extend your problem-solving and graphing skills as you learn how to graph, write, and solve inequalities. As in previous units, many problems in the unit are set in the context of real-life situations so that you can make connections between the mathematical ideas and their real-world applications.
Linear Systems
In this unit, you will develop a clear understanding of working with systems of equations and inequalities. You will begin by graphing systems to determine the possible solutions of two equations including parallel lines (no solutions), intersecting lines (one solution), or the coinciding lines (infinitely many solutions). You will discover the algebraic methods to solve a system of equations by substitution and elimination, as well as practical applications of linear systems to real-world situations. Finally, you will apply your knowledge of systems of equations to solving systems of linear inequalities. Concepts emphasized in this unit will reappear throughout the course, so take the time to complete each lesson carefully.
Algebra 1 A Final
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to prepare for and take the final exam. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes in the order of the course outline before you begin to review. Using the test-taking strategies that you have previously learned can help you be successful with both objective and essay questions.
Course Sets
- Algebra 1 (Basic, Standard, Honors, GT Math 7)
- PH Algebra 1 Study Guide and Practice Workbook
- Prentice Hall Mathematics: Algebra 1 (opt)
Algebra 1 B
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11, 8
Credits: 0.50
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of Algebra 1 A
Description:
In Algebra 1 B, students build on previous coursework, studying systems of equations and inequalities. Exponents, exponential functions, and polynomials are examined, providing the groundwork for understanding quadratic equations and functions. Throughout the course, students learn strategies and tips to algebraic problems in state assessments and college entrance exams.
Units:
Exponents and Exponential Functions
In this unit, you will review and build upon your knowledge of exponents and scientific notation. You will review the properties of zero and negative exponents to evaluate exponential equations. You will investigate the use of scientific notation in real-world problem-solving applications. You will extend your knowledge of exponents to include the properties of multiplying and dividing powers, raising products and quotients to a power, and raising a power to a power. Finally, you will solve and graph exponential decay and growth functions.
Polynomials and Factoring
In this unit, you will be introduced to polynomials, which are a fundamental element of algebraic expressions. You will learn to classify polynomials by their degree and number of terms as well combine monomials, binomials, and polynomials by applying the operations of addition, subtraction, and multiplication. You will discover specific patterns for factoring trinomials of a specific type, factoring special cases, and factoring by grouping. These skills will need to be practiced and refined as you will continue to build upon them in the rest of the course.
Solving and Applying Proportions
In this unit, the student explores the characteristics of ratios and proportions, as well as the methods of solving for proportions. Throughout the unit, you will solve ratios and rates, use similar figures to indirectly measure objects, write and solve percent equations, and calculate percent of change and percent error. In addition, you will use the measures of central tendency to analyze data. You will also use percents to describe simple and compound probability problems. Finally, you will use counting techniques, combinations, and permutations to determine outcomes in real-world situations.This unit contains material from more than one chapter of the textbook.
Quadratic Equations and Functions
In this unit, you will explore quadratic graphs, quadratic functions, and quadratic equations. You will apply your knowledge of finding and estimating square roots to solving quadratic equations. You will have the opportunity to develop skills in solving quadratic equations by different methods, such as factoring the equations, completing the square, using the Quadratic Formula, and using the discriminant. Finally, you will use what you have learned to determine the appropriate linear, exponential, or quadratic model for real-world data.
Radical Expressions and Equations
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to develop and extend your understanding of radical expressions and their geometric and algebraic applications. You will learn to use, simplify, and combine radical expressions and their properties in order to solve radical equations. You will apply this knowledge to solving the Pythagorean Theorem, the distance formula, and the midpoint formula, which are all introduced in this unit. Finally, you will learn to graph square root functions and translate their graphs.
Rational Expressions and Functions
In this unit, you will explore rational expressions and functions. You will discover direct and inverse variation, where y/x equals a constant. You will learn to simplify, combine, and graph rational expressions as well as apply the operations of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Your knowledge of polynomials will be expanded to utilize division and solving rational equations.
Algebra 1 B Final
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to prepare for and take the final exam. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes in the order of the course outline before you begin to review. Using the test-taking strategies that you have previously learned can help you be successful with both objective and essay questions.
Course Sets
- Algebra 1 (Basic, Standard, Honors, GT Math 7)
- PH Algebra 1 Study Guide and Practice Workbook
- Prentice Hall Mathematics: Algebra 1 (opt)
Algebra 2 A
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of Algebra 1 and Geometry
Description:
Students continue their exploration of higher-level mathematics in this comprehensive course. After reviewing concepts from Algebra 1, students in Algebra 2 A move into studying linear systems, graphing, and matrices. Students build upon previous knowledge of quadratic equations and functions and begin to examine polynomials and their functions.
Units:
Tools of Algebra
In this unit, you will review previously learned mathematical principles and extend prior mathematical knowledge. Concepts emphasized in this unit will reappear throughout the course, so take the time to complete each lesson carefully.
As you work through the unit, you will have the opportunity to review basic properties of real numbers. You will focus on the properties of operations, equality, and inequalities, as well as use these properties to solve one-variable equations and inequalities. You will also review and solve equations and inequalities that involve absolute value. Finally, you will examine the fundamental concepts of experimental, theoretical, and geometric probability.
Functions, Equations, and Graphs
In this unit, you will define and graph relations and functions using verbal descriptions, lists, tables, and mapping diagrams. Specifically, you will examine linear functions and solve linear equations using slope. You will also examine direct variation and learn how to model many real-world situations using linear models. Finally, you will graph absolute value functions and analyze vertical and horizontal translations.
Linear Systems
In this unit, you will continue your study of linear equations by solving systems of linear equations and inequalities. You will determine if the system of linear equations or inequalities can be solved graphically or algebraically. You will examine a branch of mathematics called linear programming in order to determine the maximum and minimum values for real-world problems. At the end of the unit, you will solve and graph systems of linear equations with three variables.
Matrices
In this unit, you will be introduced how to organize data into matrices. You will learn how to add matrices, subtract matrices, and matrix multiplication. You will transform geometric figures using matrix operations. You will also explore 2 x 2 and 3 x 3 matrices, determinants, and inverses. Finally, you will solve systems of equations using inverse matrices, matrices of systems, and augmented matrices and systems.
Quadratic Equations and Functions
In this unit, you will explore quadratic equations and functions. You will study the properties of parabolas and use these properties to graph, find the maximum and minimum values of quadratic functions, and translate parabolas. You will learn how to factor quadratic expressions and solve quadratic equations by factoring, finding square roots, and graphing. At the end of the unit, you will be introduced to complex numbers and solve quadratic expressions by completing the square and by using the Quadratic Formula.
Polynomials and Polynomial Functions
In this unit, you will use your knowledge of the properties of linear and quadratic functions to classify and examine polynomials and polynomial functions. Then, you will learn how to find linear factors and zeros of a polynomial function, divide polynomials, and solve polynomial equations. You will be introduced to several methods of finding the roots of polynomial equations including the Rational Root Theorem, Irrational Root Theorem, and the Imaginary Root Theorem. You will also solve polynomial equations with complex roots using the Fundamental Theorem of Algebra. At the end of this unit, you will evaluate probability problems using permutations, combinations, Pascal's Triangle, and the Binomial Theorem.
Algebra 2 A Final
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to prepare for and take the final exam. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes in the order of the course outline before you begin to review. Using the test-taking strategies that you have previously learned can help you be successful with both objective and essay questions.
Online Text/eBook
- Prentice Hall Mathematics: Algebra 2
Textbook/Novel
- Prentice Hall Mathematics: Algebra 2 (opt)
Workbook
- PH All-in-One Student Workbook (Algebra 2)
Algebra 2 B
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of Algebra 2 A
Description:
Radical functions, exponents, periodic functions, and statistics round out the Algebra 2 curriculum in the B course. Students study radical functions and rational exponents in preparation for working with exponential and logarithmic functions. Rational functions, quadratic relations, and probability are also explored in detail, preparing students for continued study in precalculus.
Units:
Radical Functions and Rational Exponents
In this unit, you will review properties of exponents and be introduced to roots and radical expressions. You will use the skills from this lesson to multiply and divide rational expressions. Then, you will explore binomial radical expressions and rational exponents. You will expand your knowledge of functions by learning important function operations, composite functions, inverse relations and inverse functions. Finally, you will combine your knowledge of functions by graphing radical functions.
Exponential and Logarithmic Functions
In this unit, you will begin your study of exponential and logarithmic functions by exploring exponential models such as exponential growth and decay. There are many real-world applications of exponential functions including compound interest, depreciation, population growth, and radioactive decay. You will define and learn the properties of exponential and logarithmic functions. Then, you will explore logarithmic functions as inverses and natural logarithms. At the end of this unit, you will apply what you learned in this unit to solve exponential and logarithmic equations.
Rational Functions
In this unit, you will expand your knowledge of rational functions. You will explore and graph inverse variations. You will learn how to find points of discontinuity and vertical asymptotes using the graphs of rational functions. Then, you will review how to simplify rational expressions. You will use algebraic formulas to add and subtract rational expressions. You will solve rational equations and check the solutions for extraneous answers. Finally, you will use algebra to solve problems involving probability of multiple events.
Quadratic Relations and Conic Sections
In this unit, you will identify the curves of a conic section and graph several equations that describe them. You will review how the graphs of quadratic equations are parabolas before analyzing parabolas using the terms focus and directrix. Then, you will write and solve equations of a circle, ellipse, and parabola using the center and radius of a circle, the foci of an ellipse, and the foci of a hyperbola. Finally, you will identify and write equations of translated conic sections.
Sequences and Series
In this unit, you will continue your study of sequences and series. You will identify and use formulas to generate mathematical patterns, arithmetic sequences, and geometric sequences. Then, you will evaluate arithmetic series using summation notation. You will define and understand the difference between a finite and an infinite geometric series. At the end of this unit, you will find the area of a curve using inscribed and circumscribed rectangles.
Probability and Statistics
In this unit, you will expand your knowledge of probability and statistics. You will explore probability distributions because you will use them for the rest of this unit. You will solve conditional probability problems using formulas and tree diagrams. You will analyze data by calculating the measures of central tendency. You will find the standard deviation and use it to interpret the values of a data set. Then, you will define and practice the terms sample, sample proportion, random sample, and margin of error while solving real-world sample problems. Finally, you will solve problems involving binomial and normal distributions.
Algebra 2 B Final
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to prepare for and take the final exam. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes in the order of the course outline before you begin to review. Using the test-taking strategies that you have previously learned can help you be successful with both objective and essay questions.
Online Text/eBook
- Prentice Hall Mathematics: Algebra 2
Textbook/Novel
- Prentice Hall Mathematics: Algebra 2 (opt)
Workbook
- PH All-in-One Student Workbook (Algebra 2)
AP Calculus AB A
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of Precalculus A
A TI-83+ or TI-84+ graphing calculator is required for this course.
Description:
AP Calculus ABis a college-level course covering such concepts as derivatives, integrals, limits, approximation, applications, and modeling. In the first semester, students begin by reviewing function notation, then exploring absolute value, piecewise, exponential, logarithmic, trigonometric, polynomial, and rational functions. After studying limits and continuity, students move on to concepts of derivatives, including the chain rule, differentiation, implicit differentiation, and logarithmic differentiation. Toward the end of the course, students will apply what they have learned to solve integration problems.
Units:
Introduction
Welcome to Calculus A. This brief unit introduces the course objectives and presents tips and grading guidelines for the Research Paper, which you will work on throughout the semester.
Limits and Their Properties
In this unit you will learn how to calculate limits and explore their central role in calculus. You will study the notation, domain, and range of functions as well as the families, transformations, and compositions of functions. Throughout the unit you will apply what you learn to real-world situations. You will also continue to work on your research paper.
Differentiation
In Unit 3, you will learn how to calculate derivatives, one of the two major tools of calculus. You will study the rules of differentiation, explore the connection between differentiability and continuity, use derivatives to find rates of change, distinguish between functions written in implicit and explicit form, and apply related rates to solve real-world problems. Also, you will continue to work on your research paper.
Applications of Differentiation
In this unit, you will learn the fundamental applications of differentiation using the first and second derivatives. You will find extrema over closed intervals, sketch and analyze the graph of a function, solve applied minimum and maximum problems, and use a tangent line approximation. In addition, you will apply several tests and theorems including Rolle's Theorem, the Mean Value Theorem, and the First and Second Derivative tests. You will complete your research paper by the end of this unit.
Final Review and Exam
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to prepare for and take the final exam. The final exam may include any material that has been presented throughout the semester. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes and answers to questions before you begin to review.
Online Text/eBook
- Houghton Mifflin Calculus
Textbook/Novel
- Houghton Mifflin Calculus (opt)
AP Calculus AB B
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of Calculus AB A
A TI-83+ or TI-84+ graphing calculator is required for this course.
Description:
AP Calculus AB is a college-level course covering such concepts as derivatives, integrals, limits, approximation, applications, and modeling. In the second semester students continue by reviewing function notation, then exploring absolute value, piecewise, exponential, logarithmic, trigonometric, polynomial, and rational functions. After studying limits and continuity, students move on to concepts of derivatives, including the chain rule, differentiation, implicit differentiation, and logarithmic differentiation. Toward the end of the course, students will apply what they have learned to solve integration problems. A TI-83+ or TI-84+ graphing calculator is required.
Units:
Integration
In this unit, you will learn the fundamentals of integration, a key concept of calculus. You will use integration to find the area of regions, apply the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus, compare differentiation and integration, and study the Trapezoidal Rule and Simpson’s Rule. In addition, you will research Georg Riemann, a German mathematician who made significant contributions to geometry and calculus.
Logarithmic, Exponential, and other Transcendental
In this unit, you will learn to apply integration to different functions, including trigonometric and hyperbolic functions. You will also explore how integration applies to the natural logarithmic function. You will learn how to use different functions to solve real-world problems, including the design of suspension bridges.
Differential Equations
In this unit, you will use differentiation and integration to solve differential equations. You will use differential equations to solve real-world problems involving cooling and falling objects, temperature variance, and bacterial growth. In addition, you will learn how to solve logistic differential equations, first-order linear differential equations, and Bernoulli differential equations.
Applications of Integration
In this unit, you will continue to apply the technique of integration. Specifically, you will learn how to calculate the area of a section between two curves; determine volumes, arc lengths, and areas of a surfaces; and use the disc, washer, and shell methods to solve problems. In addition, you will learn how calculus applies to physics as you calculate the work done by a constant force.
Final Review and Exam
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to prepare for and take the final exam. The final exam may include any material that has been presented throughout the course. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes and answers to questions before you begin to review.
Online Text/eBook
- Houghton Mifflin Calculus
Textbook/Novel
- Houghton Mifflin Calculus (opt)
Calculus A
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of Precalculus
Description:
Calculus A introduces limits, differentiation, and applications of differentiation. The student will find and evaluate finite and infinite limits graphically, numerically, and analytically. The student will find derivatives using a variety of methods including the chain rule and implicit differentiation. Then the student will use the first derivative test and the second derivative test to analyze and sketch functions. Finally, the student will find derivatives using a variety of methods including substitution.
The use of a graphing calculator is considered an integral part of the course and the student will use a graphing calculator throughout this course.
Units:
Introduction
Welcome to Calculus A. This brief unit introduces the course objectives and presents tips and grading guidelines for the Research Paper, which you will work on throughout the semester.
Limits and Their Properties
In this unit you will learn how to calculate limits and explore their central role in calculus. You will study the notation, domain, and range of functions as well as the families, transformations, and compositions of functions. Throughout the unit you will apply what you learn to real-world situations. You will also continue to work on your research paper.
Differentiation
In Unit 3, you will learn how to calculate derivatives, one of the two major tools of calculus. You will study the rules of differentiation, explore the connection between differentiability and continuity, use derivatives to find rates of change, distinguish between functions written in implicit and explicit form, and apply related rates to solve real-world problems. Also, you will continue to work on your research paper.
Applications of Differentiation
In this unit, you will learn the fundamental applications of differentiation using the first and second derivatives. You will find extrema over closed intervals, sketch and analyze the graph of a function, solve applied minimum and maximum problems, and use a tangent line approximation. In addition, you will apply several tests and theorems including Rolle's Theorem, the Mean Value Theorem, and the First and Second Derivative tests. You will complete your research paper by the end of this unit.
Final Review and Exam
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to prepare for and take the final exam. The final exam may include any material that has been presented throughout the semester. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes and answers to questions before you begin to review.
Online Text/eBook
- Houghton Mifflin Calculus
Textbook/Novel
- Houghton Mifflin Calculus (opt)
Calculus B
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of Calculus A
Description:
Calculus B introduces integration of functions, differential equations, and applications of integration. The student will calculate antiderivatives using a variety of methods including substitution. The student will evaluate integrals using a variety of methods including numerical integration. Then the student will understand and apply Riemann sums, definite integrals, and the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus. In particular, the student will differentiate and integrate logarithmic, exponential, and inverse trigonometric functions. The student will solve simple differential equations, which can be solved by separation of variables, and use the calculations to solve applied problems. The student will use integration to determine the area between two curves, volume, and surface area. Finally, the student will apply integration to determine work, center of mass, and fluid force.
The use of a graphing calculator is considered an integral part of the course and the student will use a graphing calculator throughout this course.
Units:
Integration
In this unit, you will learn the fundamentals of integration, a key concept of calculus. You will use integration to find the area of regions, apply the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus, compare differentiation and integration, and study the Trapezoidal Rule and Simpson’s Rule. In addition, you will research Georg Riemann, a German mathematician who made significant contributions to geometry and calculus.
Logarithmic, Exponential, and other Transcendental
In this unit, you will learn to apply integration to different functions, including trigonometric and hyperbolic functions. You will also explore how integration applies to the natural logarithmic function. You will learn how to use different functions to solve real-world problems, including the design of suspension bridges.
Differential Equations
In this unit, you will use differentiation and integration to solve differential equations. You will use differential equations to solve real-world problems involving cooling and falling objects, temperature variance, and bacterial growth. In addition, you will learn how to solve logistic differential equations, first-order linear differential equations, and Bernoulli differential equations.
Applications of Integration
In this unit, you will continue to apply the technique of integration. Specifically, you will learn how to calculate the area of a section between two curves; determine volumes, arc lengths, and areas of a surfaces; and use the disc, washer, and shell methods to solve problems. In addition, you will learn how calculus applies to physics as you calculate the work done by a constant force.
Final Review and Exam
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to prepare for and take the final exam. The final exam may include any material that has been presented throughout the course. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes and answers to questions before you begin to review.
Online Text/eBook
- Houghton Mifflin Calculus
Textbook/Novel
- Houghton Mifflin Calculus (opt)
Consumer Math A
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Description:
This is the first of two courses that comprise Consumer Math. In this course, the student will learn that money is lost or gained depending upon the information a consumer has to help him make informed decisions. Retailers, banks, and credit card companies may not provide consumers with all the information they need to make good decisions. By the end of this course, the student will understand the history of money, define fixed costs and discretionary spending, understand the importance of savings, and recognize the dangers of debt. This course will ask the student to look hard at his financial choices including spending patterns, purchasing motivations, and how to make some difficult decisions.
Units:
Money and Spending
In this unit, you will learn the necessary skills to establish a solid consumer mathematics foundation. Concepts emphasized in this unit will reappear throughout the course, so take the time to complete each lesson carefully.
As you work through the unit, you will explore the history of currency and how it has changed over time. You will calculate discount, sales tax, and the cost of single items using many real-world situations. You will learn how to estimate expenses before going to the register at a store or receiving a check at a restaurant. You will analyze the information on an invoice and examine the different methods of payment. Finally, you will explore the fundamentals of creating a budget by estimating your expenses and saving money.
Controlling Expenses
This unit focuses on calculating total expenses using addition and subtraction of decimals, multiplication and division of decimals, and percentages of numbers. You will learn to read tables with specific situational data including time and money to determine the best plan for using electricity and telephones. You will also learn how to make estimations when shopping and then use those estimations to calculate the total bill at a restaurant including sales tax and tip. Then, you will complete activities to keep track of your expenses and checking balance. Lastly, you will perform computations involving wage earnings in order to determine how many work hours a purchase requires.
Finances: Income and Debt
Interest, earnings, and savings are the key concepts in this unit. You will solve problems involving the formula for simple interest to determine various earnings on savings. You will learn the difference between involuntary and voluntary pay deductions and use a percentage of a number to determine net income. You will also have an opportunity to explore the effects of compounding interest on a traditional savings over a long period of time as compared to a simple interest computation over the same period of time. By the end of the unit, you will have a greater understanding of how credit cards have an impact on your financial health by completing problems using interest calculations and late fees. Through these calculations, you will compare the final cost of these credit card purchases, which may change your mind about purchasing items that are wants (luxuries) rather than needs (necessities).
Dealing with Debt
Debt is an inevitable part of your financial life and this unit focuses on different types of debt and the mathematical computations involved. You differentiate between fixed expenses and discretionary expenses, then calculate your total fixed expenses using addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of decimals, and finally determine how much of your gross pay is allowed for housing and fixed expenses using percentage of a number. You complete decimal computations again when paying off credit card debt over a long period of time. Finally, you explore the methods used to calculate your credit score and your credit scores impact on interest rates involving debt and savings. You will interpret a data table to complete your calculations, and then compare outcomes based on several situations.
Review
This unit reviews the information taught in Units 1 – 4 in preparation for the course final. You review key concepts from Unit 1 such as bartering, exchange rates, and purchasing goods from grocery and departments stores. You use decimal computations to calculate final costs and then comparing of decimals to make recommendations on purchases. Unit 2’s review continues the theme of decimal computations but expands to include controlling your expenses and keeping track of income through utilization of a checking account. Unit 3 focused on tabulating interest using the I=Prt simple interest formula and the impact long periods of time can have on savings growth. You also review calculating gross pay, deductions, and net income. Finally for Unit 4’s review, you complete comparisons involving credit card debt versus savings lost, the impact of various payments of paying off debt, the work hours cost of purchases, and the effects of different credit scores on interest rates.
Final Exam
In this unit, you will take the final exam. The final exam may include any material that has been presented throughout the semester. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes before you begin to review.
Consumer Math B
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Description:
This is the second of two courses that comprise Consumer Math. In this course, students will continue to learn how to make good financial decisions. Retailers, banks, and credit card companies may not provide consumers with all the information they need to make good decisions. By the end of this course, the student will differentiate between secured and unsecured debt, learn how to create a budget, examine a credit report, and discover the best way to increase income and decrease expenses. This course will provide the student with the skills to make good financial decisions.
Units:
Debt vs. Savings
In this unit, you learn more about types of debt from credit cards (unsecured debt) to home mortgages (secured debt). You learn why good credit is an advantage when acquiring debt and how to avoid bad credit. Using interest rate tables that take credit scores and secured versus unsecured loans into consideration, you will compute interest accrued on loans. You will analyze the impacts of maintaining a good credit history on your long term ability to save. Given various credit situations, you will determine which financial approach is the best by completing computations involving simple interest, money, and long term payoff amounts.
Budgeting
Budgets are used to accomplish a variety of financial goals whether you are saving for an emergency fund or retirement. This unit focuses on the key parts of a budget and the proper way to develop one. You revisit computations involving housing expenses and fixed costs and use proportions to determine the realized income needed to stay within the percentage limits allowed. You will calculate how much of an emergency fund you need based on housing expenses and fixed costs and then develop a plan of saving involving either a percentage of your discretionary monies or income from a 2nd job. Lastly, you will complete computations for how much money an emergency fund can save you in the case when you need to use it versus if you had used a credit card, and then how long it will take you to rebuild your emergency fund.
Finances
You have already considered the impact of your credit score on your ability to save and interest rates on debt. This unit will focus you on increasing your savings through other ways. You will complete calculations involving paying off high interest debt more quickly by paying more than the minimum and compare the savings both in money and time. You will learn about how carpooling can save you and coworkers money on transportation costs, and compare the benefits of moving from one part-time job to another even though the base pay rate may be less. Coupons were one form of saving when shopping but another is bulk or volume purchasing. You learn when it is a good thing to visit a wholesale club store and the savings that can be had when compared to local store prices by completing multiplication and division problems involving money. Lastly, you will learn the statistical value of attaining certain educational degrees by analyzing data from the United States Bureau of Labor and turning your educational level into money terms.
Savings and Financial Planning
This unit takes a more detailed look at savings plans. You will learn the key element to a good savings plan and then why it is important to diversify. You will learn about the stock market and treasury bonds as other options to reach your savings goals but also identify the advantages and disadvantages of these options. You will make many calculations using percentages and money, whether to calculate your realized income or the down payment for a house. You will compare savings outcomes and the effect of shifting monies from one savings instrument to another. This unit will also explain how a long-term savings goal can be translated into monthly goals. Lastly, you will examine the importance of contracts to your life and their specific implications when you loan money to friends or when your parents rent you an apartment to attend college away from home.
Review
This unit reviews the information taught in Units 1–4 in preparation for the course final. You will review key concepts from Unit 1, such as the difference between secured and unsecured debt, the benefits of maintaining good credit, and the effects these items have on the interest rates you pay. The review for Unit 2 focuses on the development of a budget and the impact a second job (or in your case, a part-time job) can have on your ability to save. The review for Unit 3 revisits how to increase your income by obtaining a job, a part-time job, or gaining more education. You will also review additional ways you can reduce your spending through sharing of expenses by doing such things as carpooling or buying items in bulk. Lastly, you will reexamine Unit 4, which looks in more detail at developing a savings plan, being realistic about your goals, and the importance of contracts to your financial well-being. Key vocabulary from these units includes appreciation, assets, depreciation, educational attainment, part-time job, median income, down payment, and closing costs. Mathematical skills that are important in this review include the ability to work with money using addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division—computing your net hourly income to computing how many hours you must work to purchase an item or meet a goal.
Final Exam
In this unit, you will take the final exam. The final exam may include any material that has been presented throughout the semester. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes before you begin to review.
Explorations in Mathematics A
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Description:
This course provides students with a foundation in fundamental mathematic concepts, allowing them to apply these concepts to real-world situations. Prime factorization and operations with rational numbers and integers are covered, establishing a solid base for the study of more complex math.
Units:
Working with Rational Numbers
In this unit, you will learn the necessary skills to establish a solid mathematics foundation. Concepts emphasized in this unit will reappear throughout the course, so take the time to complete each lesson carefully.
As you work through the unit, you will expand your knowledge of rational numbers. You will explore divisibility patterns and prime factorization. You will use this knowledge to identify and determine the greatest common factor and the least common multiple of rational numbers. Then, you will learn how to add and subtract rational numbers with like and unlike denominators and how to reduce the answer to its simplest form. Finally, you will solve rational number problems by multiplying and dividing.
Variables, Equations, and Properties
In this unit, you will recognize and solve mathematical expressions and equations involving variables. You will identify, understand, and simplify expressions using the following properties: Associative Property of Addition and Multiplication, Commutative Property of Addition and Multiplication, Additive and Multiplicative Identity Property, Additive and Multiplicative Inverse Properties, and the Distributive Property. Finally, you will learn how to use the order of operations to evaluate expressions.
Explorations of Mathematics A Final
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to prepare for and take the final exam. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes in the order of the course outline before you begin to review. Using the test-taking strategies that you have previously learned can help you be successful with both objective and essay questions.
Explorations in Mathematics B
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of Explorations in Mathematics A
Description:
In the B course, students build on fundamental math concepts and examine integers and solving equations. Probability and statistics round out the course; students explore mean, mode, and median, as well as more advanced concepts, such as permutations and combinations.
Units:
Integers and Solving Equations
In this unit, you will explore the addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division properties of equality and use these properties to solve simple and one-step equations. You will be introduced to the concept of absolute values of integers in order to compare two or more integers. Then, you will learn how to add, subtract, multiply, and divide integers. You will solve simple equations using the reflexive, symmetric, transitive, and substitution properties of equality. Finally, you will expand your knowledge of one-step equations skills to solve real-world application problems and multi-step equations.
Probability and Statistics
In this unit, you will be introduced to and solve equations using the concepts of direct and inverse variation. You will learn the measures of central tendency including mean, median, mode, and range, and determine these measures in a data set. You will expand on the measures of central tendency by calculating the quartiles of an ordered data set. Then, you will explore some common concepts of probability including the counting principle, permutations, combinations, and probability of simple events. At the end of the unit, you will calculate real-world probability problems.
Explorations in Mathematics B Final
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to prepare for and take the final exam. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes in the order of the course outline before you begin to review. Using the test-taking strategies that you have previously learned can help you be successful with both objective and essay questions.
Geometry A
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of Algebra 1 is the prerequisite for Geometry.
Description:
Using the basic principles of logic, Geometry A students learn to construct formal proofs and then study parallel and perpendicular lines, triangles and their properties and relationships, and quadrilaterals. Throughout the course, students are exposed to various technologies and strategies for problem-solving and test-taking.
Units:
Tools of Geometry
In this unit, you will review the basic principals of geometry in preparation for extensive study of the geometry course. You will begin by using mental math to evaluate patterns and predict future outcomes using deductive reasoning. You will then use terms you are already familiar with including point, line, and plane in postulates about segments, rays, lines, planes, and angles. While building on your knowledge of geometry you will use tools, such as a straightedge and a compass to measure geometric shapes, angles, and segments to construct your own figures. In the next section, you will expand your knowledge of the coordinate plane, including how to find the distances between points, and how to calculate the midpoints of segments. Finally, you will measure perimeters and circumferences, as well as find areas of various shapes.
Reasoning and Proof
In this unit, you will use your knowledge of deductive reasoning to write special types of statements. The statements are known as conditionals, biconditionals, and definitions. These statements will help you to determine the validity of other geometric events. You will use this information to determine your preliminary conclusions about geometric relationships.
Parallel and Perpendicular Lines
In this unit, you will continue to use deductive reasoning to make conclusions about parallel and perpendicular lines. You will use parallel lines in relation to other geometric figures, using them to measure shapes. The Polygon Angle-Sum Theorem will be used to classify triangles and find measures of angles. To finish out the unit you will learn to construct your own angle bisectors, perpendicular lines, quadrilaterals, and parallel lines.
Congruent Triangles
In this unit, you will discover how to recognize and prove that triangles are congruent. You will be introduced to postulates and theorems to help you determine the congruency of triangles. Throughout the unit you will be noting different types of triangles, including right, congruent, isosceles, and equilateral and seeing how they relate to the different postulates you use them with to complete proofs. Your work in this unit will help you manage the rest of this course.
Relationships Within Triangles
In this unit, you will test your knowledge of triangle relationships. With this knowledge you will discover how to use what you know to determine geometric relationships within other figures. You will learn more intricate details about triangles and lines and how they affect one another geometrically, involving concurrent lines and bisectors. Finally, you will explore the roles of indirect reasoning, inverses, and contrapositives in determining inequalities in triangles.
Quadrilaterals
In this unit, you will apply what you have learned about triangles, postulates, algebraic techniques, and other methods of proof in the study of quadrilaterals. You will learn the different properties of polygons and parallelograms as well as classification techniques for working with quadrilaterals. Finally, you will be introduced to special parallelograms and how to place figures on the coordinate plane.
Geometry A Final
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to prepare for and take the final exam. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes in the order of the course outline before you begin to review. Using the test-taking strategies that you have previously learned can help you be successful with both objective and essay questions.
Online Text/eBook
- Prentice Hall Mathematics: Geometry
Textbook/Novel
- Prentice Hall Mathematics: Geometry (opt)
Workbook
- PH Geometry Study Guide and Practice Workbook
Geometry B
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Prerequisites:
Students must have successfully completed the first half of a Geometry course in order to take Geometry B.
Successful completion of Algebra 1 is the prerequisite for Geometry.
Description:
In Geometry B, students learn to find area, surface area, and volume, and study the concept of similarity as it relates to various figures, including an in-depth valuation of circles and their unique properties. Students are also introduced to right angle trigonometry. As in Geometry A, students learn various test-taking strategies to increase performance on state assessments and college entrance exams.
Units:
Area
In this unit, you will find the area formulas of various figures and learn how area relates in different figures. You will use the 30°-60°-90° triangles as well as the 45°-45°-90° triangles to explore new triangle relationships. You will also use the Pythagorean Theorem to find areas of triangles, quadrilaterals, and regular polygons.
Similarity
In this unit, you will learn about similar polygons and how some polygons, although they look similar, are not the same size. By using the similar polygons definitions you will learn how to prove triangles similar. Finally, you will take a look at perimeters and angles and determine how they relate to one another.
Right Triangle Trigonometry
In this unit, the sine, cosine, and tangent trigonometric ratios will be introduced and used extensively in order to develop a new way of thinking about geometry and right triangles. Finally, you will examine ratios in order to find missing variables, such as lengths and angle measurements.
Surface Area and Volume
In this unit, you will examine nets that describe various solid shapes. Using the nets you will notice the commonalities between two and three-dimensional figures. With the nets you will be able to create space figures and drawing that will help you measure lengths and areas of solid figures. The most important skill you will develop during this unit is the ability to find the surface areas and volumes of various figures.
Circles
In this unit, you will expand the skills you have acquired in this course regarding circles. You will find tangent lines, chords and arcs, inscribed angles, and angle measures and segment lines.
Transformations
In this unit, you will conclude your study of geometry. At this point, you will have a solid understanding of the different ways geometry can be applied to real-life situations. You will examine the geometric plane and the different transformations on the plane. You will identify and perform reflections, translations, and rotations. Finally, you will explore and study dilations.
Geometry B Final
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to prepare for and take the final exam. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes in the order of the course outline before you begin to review. Using the test-taking strategies that you have previously learned can help you be successful with both objective and essay questions.
Online Text/eBook
- Prentice Hall Mathematics: Geometry
Textbook/Novel
- Prentice Hall Mathematics: Geometry (opt)
Workbook
- PH Geometry Study Guide and Practice Workbook
Honors Algebra 1 A
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of Math 7 and/or Pre-Algebra
Description:
Honors Algebra 1 A starts with a review of basic real number operations and properties, then continues on to more complicated concepts such as multi-step equations and inequalities, proportions (in preparation for graphing functions), variations, and linear equations. Coursework also includes problem-solving and test-taking strategies gearing students for continued study in high school and college. This Honors level course includes more rigorous curriculum and greater opportunities for students explore concepts and demonstrate critical thinking skills.
Units:
Tools of Algebra
In this unit, you will review previously learned mathematical principles and extend prior mathematical knowledge. Concepts emphasized in this unit will reappear throughout the course, so take the time to complete each lesson carefully.
As you work through the unit, you will have the opportunity to model mathematical sentences using variables, evaluate expressions that include different forms of real numbers; apply the order of operations and the distributive property to simplify expressions; and graph and analyze scatter plots. Many problems in the unit are set in the context of real-life situations so that you can make connections between the mathematical ideas and their real-world applications.
Solving Equations
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to develop and extend your understanding of how to solve problems by defining and comparing variables, translating sentences to equations, and simplifying and evaluating mathematical expressions. In addition, you will use the measures of central tendency to analyze data.
Solving Inequalities
In this unit, you will extend your problem-solving and graphing skills as you learn to graph, write, and solve inequalities. As in previous units, many problems in the unit are set in the context of real-life situations so that you can make connections between the mathematical ideas and their real-world applications.
Solving and Applying Proportions
In this unit, the characteristics of ratios and proportions, as well as the methods of solving for proportions, are presented. These concepts are particularly relevant to the restaurant and banking industries.
Throughout the unit you will have opportunities to find ratios and rates, use similar figures to indirectly measure, write and solve percent equations, and calculate percent of change and percent error.
Graphs and Functions
In this unit, you will expand your knowledge of equations by relating equations to their graphs. Specifically, you will sketch and analyze graphs, evaluate functions, model functions using rules, tables and graphs, and derive function rules from real-world situations.
Linear Equations and Their Graphs
In this unit, you will solve and graph linear equations. The slope of a line will be defined as a rate of change in the horizontal and vertical points of a linear equation. You will be able to determine the slope of a line or its x-and y-intercepts using a graph, two points of the line, or a form of the linear equation. You will apply your knowledge of slopes to determine whether lines are parallel or perpendicular, as well as to write their equations. You will then create scatter plots and use slope to determine the line of best fit and correlation of the data. Finally, you will graph and write absolute value equations, as well as translate parent graphs.
Systems of Equations and Inequalities
In this unit, you will develop a clear understanding of working with systems of equations and inequalities. You will begin by graphing systems to determine the possible solutions of two equations: parallel lines (no solutions), intersecting lines (one solution), or the coinciding lines (infinitely many solutions). You will discover the algebraic methods to solve a system of equations by substitution and elimination, as well as practical applications of linear systems to real world situations. Finally, you will apply your knowledge of systems of equations to solving systems of linear inequalities. Concepts emphasized in this unit will reappear throughout the course, so take the time to complete each lesson carefully.
Honors Algebra 1 A Final
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to prepare for and take the final exam. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes in the order of the course outline before you begin to review. Using the test-taking strategies that you have previously learned can help you be successful with both objective and essay questions.
Course Sets
- Algebra 1 (Basic, Standard, Honors, GT Math 7)
- PH Algebra 1 Study Guide and Practice Workbook
- Prentice Hall Mathematics: Algebra 1 (opt)
Honors Algebra 1 B
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of Honors Algebra 1 A
Description:
Honors Algebra 1 B includes more rigorous curriculum and greater opportunities for students explore concepts and demonstrate critical thinking skills. Students build on previous coursework, studying systems of equations and inequalities. Exponents, exponential functions, and polynomials are examined, providing the groundwork for understanding quadratic equations and functions. Throughout the course, students learn strategies and tips to algebraic problems in state proficiency tests and college entrance exams.
Units:
Exponents and Exponential Functions
In this unit, you will review and build upon your knowledge of exponents and scientific notation. You will review the properties of zero and negative exponents to evaluate exponential equations. You will investigate the use of scientific notation in real-world problem solving. You will extend your knowledge of exponents to include the properties of multiplying and dividing powers, raising products and quotients to a power, and raising a power to a power. This will enable you to use exponents to write geometric sequences. Finally, you will solve and graph exponential decay and growth functions.
Polynomials and Factoring
In this unit, you will be introduced to polynomials, which are a fundamental element of algebraic expressions. You will learn to classify polynomials by their degree and number of terms as well combine monomials, binomials, and polynomials by applying the operations of addition, subtraction, and multiplication. You will discover specific patterns for factoring trinomials of a specific type, factoring special cases, and factoring by grouping. These skills will need to be practiced and refined as you will continue to build upon them in the rest of the course.
Quadratic Equations and Functions
In this unit, you will explore quadratic graphs, quadratic functions, and quadratic equations. You will apply your knowledge of finding and estimating square roots to solving quadratic equations. You will have the opportunity to develop skills in solving quadratic equations by different methods, such as, factoring the equations, completing the square, using the Quadratic Formula, and using the discriminant. Finally, you will use what you have learned to determine the appropriate linear, exponential, or quadratic model for real-world data.
Radical Expressions and Equations
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to develop and extend your understanding of radical expressions and their geometric and algebraic applications. You will learn to use, simplify, and combine radical expressions and their properties in order to solve radical equations. You will apply this knowledge to solving the Pythagorean Theorem, the Distance Formula, and the Midpoint Formula, which are all introduced in this unit. You will work with right triangles, and will use them to define three trigonometric functions: sine, cosine, and tangent. Finally, you will learn to graph square root functions and translate their graphs.
Rational Expressions and Functions
In this unit, you will explore rational expressions and functions. You will discover direct and inverse variation, where y/x equals a constant. You will learn to simplify, combine, and graph rational expressions as well as apply the operations of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Your knowledge of polynomials will be expanded to utilize division and solving rational equations. Finally, you will use combinations and permutations as a means of determining outcomes in real-world situations.
Honors Algebra 1 B Final
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to prepare for and take the final exam. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes in the order of the course outline before you begin to review. Using the test-taking strategies that you have previously learned can help you be successful with both objective and essay questions.
Course Sets
- Algebra 1 (Basic, Standard, Honors, GT Math 7)
- PH Algebra 1 Study Guide and Practice Workbook
- Prentice Hall Mathematics: Algebra 1 (opt)
Honors Algebra 2 A
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of Algebra 1 and Geometry
Description:
Students continue their exploration of higher-level mathematics in this comprehensive Honors course. After reviewing concepts from Algebra 1, students in Honors Algebra 2 A move into studying linear systems, graphing, and matrices. Students build upon previous knowledge of quadratic equations and functions and begin to examine polynomials and their functions. Students also study radical functions and rational exponents in preparation for working with exponential and logarithmic functions. This Honors level course includes more rigorous curriculum and greater opportunities for students explore concepts and demonstrate critical thinking skills.
Units:
Tools of Algebra
In this unit, you will review previously learned mathematical principles and extend prior mathematical knowledge. Concepts emphasized in this unit will reappear throughout the course, so take the time to complete each lesson carefully.
As you work through the unit, you will have the opportunity to review basic properties of real numbers. You will focus on the properties of operations, equality, and inequalities, as well as use these properties to solve one-variable equations and inequalities. You will also review and solve equations and inequalities that involve absolute value. Finally, you will examine the fundamental concepts of experimental, theoretical, and geometric probability.
Functions, Equations, and Graphs
In this unit, you will define and graph relations and functions using verbal descriptions, lists, tables, and mapping diagrams. Specifically, you will examine linear functions and solve linear equations using slope. You will also examine direct variation and learn how to model many real-world situations using linear models. Finally, you will graph absolute value functions and analyze vertical and horizontal translations.
Linear Systems
In this unit, you will continue your study of linear equations by solving systems of linear equations and inequalities. You will determine if the system of linear equations or inequalities can be solved graphically or algebraically. You will examine a branch of mathematics called linear programming in order to determine the maximum and minimum values for real-world problems. At the end of the unit, you will solve and graph systems of linear equations with three variables.
Matrices
In this unit, you will be introduced how to organize data into matrices. You will learn how to add matrices, subtract matrices, and matrix multiplication. You will transform geometric figures using matrix operations. You will also explore 2 x 2 and 3 x 3 matrices, determinants, and inverses. Finally, you will solve systems of equations using inverse matrices, matrices of systems, and augmented matrices and systems.
Quadratic Equations and Functions
In this unit, you will explore quadratic equations and functions. You will study the properties of parabolas and use these properties to graph, find the maximum and minimum values of quadratic functions, and translate parabolas. You will learn how to factor quadratic expressions and solve quadratic equations by factoring, finding square roots, and graphing. At the end of the unit, you will be introduced to complex numbers and solve quadratic expressions by completing the square and by using the Quadratic Formula.
Polynomials and Polynomial Functions
In this unit, you will use your knowledge of the properties of linear and quadratic functions to classify and examine polynomials and polynomial functions. Then, you will learn how to find linear factors and zeros of a polynomial function, divide polynomials, and solve polynomial equations. You will be introduced to several methods of finding the roots of polynomial equations including the Rational Root Theorem, Irrational Root Theorem, and the Imaginary Root Theorem. You will also solve polynomial equations with complex roots using the Fundamental Theorem of Algebra. At the end of this unit, you will evaluate probability problems using permutations, combinations, Pascal's Triangle, and the Binomial Theorem.
Radical Functions and Rational Exponents
In this unit, you will review properties of exponents and be introduced to roots and radical expressions. You will use the skills from this lesson to multiply and divide rational expressions. Then, you will explore binomial radical expressions and rational exponents. You will expand your knowledge of functions by learning important function operations, composite functions, inverse relations and inverse functions. Finally, you will combine your knowledge of functions by graphing radical functions.
Honors Algebra 2 A Final
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to prepare for and take the final exam. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes in the order of the course outline before you begin to review. Using the test-taking strategies that you have previously learned can help you be successful with both objective and essay questions.
Online Text/eBook
- Prentice Hall Mathematics: Algebra 2
Textbook/Novel
- Prentice Hall Mathematics: Algebra 2 (opt)
Workbook
- PH All-in-One Student Workbook (Algebra 2)
Honors Algebra 2 B
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of Honors Algebra 2 A
Description:
Students in Honors Algebra 2 B are provided greater opportunities to explore concepts and demonstrate critical thinking skills. Students begin exploring exponential and logarithmic functions. Rational functions, quadratic relations, probability, and trigonometric identities are also explored in detail, preparing students for continued study in precalculus. Periodic functions, trigonometry, and statistics round out the Honors Algebra 2 curriculum in the B course.
Units:
Exponential and Logarithmic Functions
In this unit, you will begin your study of exponential and logarithmic functions by exploring exponential models such as exponential growth and decay. There are many real-world applications of exponential functions including compound interest, depreciation, population growth, and radioactive decay. You will define and learn the properties of exponential and logarithmic functions. Then, you will explore logarithmic functions as inverses and natural logarithms. At the end of this unit, you will apply what you learned in this unit to solve exponential and logarithmic equations.
Rational Functions
In this unit, you will expand your knowledge of rational functions. You will explore and graph inverse variations. You will learn how to find points of discontinuity and vertical asymptotes using the graphs of rational functions. Then, you will review how to simplify rational expressions. You will use algebraic formulas to add and subtract rational expressions. You will solve rational equations and check the solutions for extraneous answers. Finally, you will use algebra to solve problems involving probability of multiple events.
Quadratic Relations and Conic Sections
In this unit, you will identify the curves of a conic section and graph several equations that describe them. You will review how the graphs of quadratic equations are parabolas before analyzing parabolas using the terms focus and directrix. Then, you will write and solve equations of a circle, ellipse, and parabola using the center and radius of a circle, the foci of an ellipse, and the foci of a hyperbola. Finally, you will identify and write equations of translated conic sections.
Sequences and Series
In this unit, you will continue your study of sequences and series. You will identify and use formulas to generate mathematical patterns, arithmetic sequences, and geometric sequences. Then, you will evaluate arithmetic series using summation notation. You will define and understand the difference between a finite and an infinite geometric series. At the end of this unit, you will find the area of a curve using inscribed and circumscribed rectangles.
Probability and Statistics
In this unit, you will expand your knowledge of probability and statistics. You will explore probability distributions because you will use them for the rest of this unit. You will solve conditional probability problems using formulas and tree diagrams. You will analyze data by calculating the measures of central tendency. You will find the standard deviation and use it to interpret the values of a data set. Then, you will define and practice the terms sample, sample proportion, random sample, and margin of error while solving real-world sample problems. Finally, you will solve problems involving binomial and normal distributions.
Periodic Functions and Trigonometry
In this unit, you will identify the cycle, period, and amplitude of periodic functions. You will examine the unit circle and work with angles in standard position. You will calculate the angle measure in radians and use the central angle to determine the length of an arc. Then, you will graph and solve sine, cosine, and tangent trigonometric functions as well as their reciprocal functions. At the end of the unit, you will translate the sine and cosine function.
Trigonometric Identities and Equations
In this unit, you will examine trigonometric identities and verify them using the unit circle. You will solve trigonometric equations using the inverses of trigonometric functions. Then, you will explore the relationship between right triangles and trigonometric ratios, and you will use these ratios to calculate side lengths and angle measures in a right triangle. You will examine and solve problems that involve the Law of Sines and the Law of Cosines. Finally, you will identify angle, double-angle, and half-angle identities and examine how they are related to the unit circle.
Honors Algebra 2 B Final
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to prepare for and take the final exam. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes in the order of the course outline before you begin to review. Using the test-taking strategies that you have previously learned can help you be successful with both objective and essay questions.
Online Text/eBook
- Prentice Hall Mathematics: Algebra 2
Textbook/Novel
- Prentice Hall Mathematics: Algebra 2 (opt)
Workbook
- PH All-in-One Student Workbook (Algebra 2)
Honors Geometry A
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of Algebra 1
Description:
Using the basic principles of logic, Honors Geometry A students learn to construct formal proofs and then study parallel and perpendicular lines, triangles and their properties and relationships, and quadrilaterals. A more rigorous curriculum and greater opportunities for concept exploration are provided. Throughout the course, students are exposed to various technologies and strategies for problem-solving and test-taking.
Units:
Tools of Geometry
In this unit, you will review the basic principals of geometry in preparation for extensive study of the geometry course. You will begin by using mental math to evaluate patterns and predict future outcomes using deductive reasoning. You will then use terms you are already familiar with including point, line, and plane in postulates about segments, rays, lines, planes, and angles. While building on your knowledge of geometry you will use tools, such as a straightedge and a compass to measure geometric shapes, angles, and segments to construct your own figures. In the next section, you will expand your knowledge of the coordinate plane, including how to find the distances between points, and how to calculate the midpoints of segments. Finally, you will measure perimeters and circumferences, as well as find areas of various shapes.
Reasoning and Proof
In this unit, you will use your knowledge of deductive reasoning to write special types of statements. The statements are known as conditionals, biconditionals, and definitions. These statements will help you to determine the validity of other geometric events. You will use this information to determine your preliminary conclusions about geometric relationships.
Parallel and Perpendicular Lines
In this unit, you will continue to use deductive reasoning to make conclusions about parallel and perpendicular lines. You will use parallel lines in relation to other geometric figures, using them to measure shapes. The Polygon Angle-Sum Theorem will be used to classify triangles and find measures of angles. To finish out the unit you will learn to construct your own angle bisectors, perpendicular lines, quadrilaterals, and parallel lines.
Congruent Triangles
In this unit, you will discover how to recognize and prove that triangles are congruent. You will be introduced to postulates and theorems to help you determine the congruency of triangles. Throughout the unit you will be noting different types of triangles, including right, congruent, isosceles, and equilateral and seeing how they relate to the different postulates you use them with to complete proofs. Your work in this unit will help you manage the rest of this course.
Relationships Within Triangles
In this unit, you will test your knowledge of triangle relationships. With this knowledge you will discover how to use what you know to determine geometric relationships within other figures. You will learn more intricate details about triangles and lines and how they affect one another geometrically, involving concurrent lines and bisectors. Finally, you will explore the roles of indirect reasoning, inverses, and contrapositives in determining inequalities in triangles.
Quadrilaterals
In this unit, you will apply what you have learned about triangles, postulates, algebraic techniques, and other methods of proof in the study of quadrilaterals. You will learn the different properties of polygons and parallelograms as well as classification techniques for working with quadrilaterals. Finally, you will be introduced to special parallelograms and how to place figures on the coordinate plane.
Honors Geometry A Final
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to prepare for and take the final exam. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes in the order of the course outline before you begin to review. Using the test-taking strategies that you have previously learned can help you be successful with both objective and essay questions.
Online Text/eBook
- Prentice Hall Mathematics: Geometry
Textbook/Novel
- Prentice Hall Mathematics: Geometry (opt)
Workbook
- PH Geometry Study Guide and Practice Workbook
Honors Geometry B
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of Honors Geometry A
Description:
In Honors Geometry B, students learn to find area, surface area, and volume, and study the concept of similarity as it relates to various figures, including an in-depth valuation of circles and their unique properties. Students are also introduced to right angle trigonometry. This Honors level course includes more rigorous curriculum and greater opportunities for students explore concepts and demonstrate critical thinking skills.
Units:
Area
In this unit, you will find the area formulas of various figures and learn how area relates in different figures. You will use the 30°-60°-90° triangles as well as the 45°-45°-90° triangles to explore new triangle relationships. You will also use the Pythagorean Theorem to find areas of triangles, quadrilaterals, and regular polygons. Finally, you will explore how geometric probability relates to area.
Similarity
In this unit, you will learn about similar polygons and how some polygons, although they look similar, are not the same size. By using the similar polygons definitions you will learn how to prove triangles similar. Finally, you will take a look at perimeters and angles and determine how they relate to one another.
Right Triangle Trigonometry
In this unit, the sine, cosine, and tangent trigonometric ratios will be introduced and used extensively in order to develop a new way of thinking about geometry and right triangles. You will examine ratios in order to find missing variables, such as lengths and angle measurements. Finally, you will explore vectors and begin to see the relationship between geometry and trigonometry.
Surface Area and Volume
In this unit, you will examine nets that describe various solid shapes. Using the nets you will notice the commonalities between two and three-dimensional figures. With the nets you will be able to create space figures and drawing that will help you measure lengths and areas of solid figures. The most important skill you will develop during this unit is the ability to find the surface areas and volumes of various figures.
Circles
In this unit, you will expand the skills you have acquired in this course regarding circles. You will find tangent lines, chords and arcs, inscribed angles, and angle measures and segment lines. To add to the spectrum of knowledge regarding circles, you will begin placing them on the coordinate plane and examine the concept of locus, and draw your own.
Transformations
In this unit, you will conclude your study of geometry. At this point, you will have a solid understanding of the different ways geometry can be applied to real-life situations. You will examine the geometric plane and the different transformations on the plane. You will identify and perform reflections, translations, and rotations. Finally, you will explore and study dilations.
Honors Geometry B Final
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to prepare for and take the final exam. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes in the order of the course outline before you begin to review. Using the test-taking strategies that you have previously learned can help you be successful with both objective and essay questions.
Online Text/eBook
- Prentice Hall Mathematics: Geometry
Textbook/Novel
- Prentice Hall Mathematics: Geometry (opt)
Workbook
- PH Geometry Study Guide and Practice Workbook
Honors Precalculus A
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of Algebra 2
Description:
This course, which includes a more rigorous curriculum and opportunities for critical thinking and enrichment, is an in-depth study of functions and a review of algebraic, geometric, and trigonometric principles and techniques. Students investigate and explore the characteristics of linear, polynomial, and trigonometric functions, and use graphing calculators to solve and evaluate various functions, equations, and inequalities.
Units:
Linear Relations and Functions
In this unit, you will review previously learned mathematical principles and extend prior mathematical knowledge. Concepts emphasized in this unit will reappear throughout the course, so take the time to complete each lesson carefully.
As you work through the unit, you will have the opportunity to review properties and operations of linear and nonlinear relations and functions. You will focus on the concepts of function composition and use these concepts to graph functions. You will also review how to write linear equations as well as equations for parallel and perpendicular lines. Then, you will use these concepts to model real-world situations that involve linear functions. Finally, you will identify and graph piecewise functions.
Systems of Linear Equations and Inequalities
In this unit, you will evaluate and graph systems of equations with two and three variables. You will review how to add, subtract, and multiply matrices. Then, you will use matrices to model motion and solve systems of equations using the inverses of matrices. You will also solve systems of linear inequalities by graphing and locating the minimum and maximum values. Finally, you will be introduced to linear programming procedures and use these procedures to solve real-world linear programming problems.
The Nature of Graphs
In this unit, you will analyze and create graphs to solve many real-world situations. First, you will perform tests on a graph to determine if the graph of a relation is symmetrical. You will also identify and sketch linear and nonlinear families of graphs, including transformations, polynomials, absolute value, and radical inequalities. Then, you will solve and graph inverses of relations and functions problems. You will identify and evaluate continuity, end behavior, critical points, and extrema of functions. Finally, you will graph radical functions and solve direct, inverse, and joint variation problems.
Polynomial and Rational Functions
In this unit, you will continue your study of polynomial and rational functions. You will find the roots of polynomial equations as well as use the discriminant to describe the roots of quadratic equations. You will calculate the factors of a polynomial using the Remainder, Factor, and Rational Root Theorems. Then, you will solve rational equations and decompose a fraction into partial fractions. You will also solve radical equations and inequalities using the same procedures you learned throughout this unit. Finally, you will use polynomial functions to solve real-world situations.
The Trigonometric Functions
In this unit, you will explore trigonometric functions. You will review angle and degree measure concepts as well as how to calculate the values for the trigonometric ratios using a right triangle. You will find the values of the six trigonometric rations using the unit circle. Then, you will apply your knowledge of trigonometry to determine inverse trigonometric functions, to find missing angle and side measures, and to solve right triangles. Finally, you will explore and solve problems using the Law of Sines and the Law of Cosines.
Graphs of Trigonometric Functions
In this unit, you will continue your study of trigonometry by examining graphs of trigonometric functions. You will review angle and radian measure concepts including radian and degree measure, arc length, and area of a sector. You will explore linear and angular velocity. Then, you will examine the graphs for the sine and cosine functions. In addition, you will learn how to calculate the amplitude and period as well as translate the graphs for the sine and cosine functions. Finally, you will graph other trigonometric functions including secant, cosecant, tangent, and cotangent functions as well as graph inverse trigonometric functions.
Trigonometric Identities and Equations
In this unit, you will identify trigonometric identities and solve trigonometric equations. You will explore reciprocal, quotient, Pythagorean, symmetry, and opposite-angle trigonometric identities and use them to verify other trigonometric identities. Then, you will learn and solve trigonometric equations and inequalities using the sum, difference, double-angle, and half-angle identities. Finally, you will learn how to write a linear equation in normal form and find the distance from a point to a line.
Honors Precalculus A Final
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to prepare for and take the final exam. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes in the order of the course outline before you begin to review. Using the test-taking strategies that you have previously learned can help you be successful with both objective and essay questions.
Online Text/eBook
- Glencoe Advanced Mathematical Concepts
Textbook/Novel
- Glencoe Advanced Mathematical Concepts (opt)
Honors Precalculus B
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of Honors Precalculus A
Description:
The second course in Honors Precalculus examines vectors and parametric equations, complex numbers, and exponential and logarithmic functions. The final unit introduces students to the fundamentals of calculus. Mathematical reasoning and problem solving skills are stressed as students prepare for future high school or college coursework in calculus. This Honors level course includes more rigorous curriculum and greater opportunities for students explore concepts and demonstrate critical thinking skills.
Units:
Vectors and Parametric Equations
In this unit, you will review previously learned mathematical principles and extend prior mathematical knowledge. Concepts emphasized in this unit will reappear throughout the course, so take the time to complete each lesson carefully.As you work through the unit, you will be introduced to vectors and parametric equations. You will explore vector notation, including terms such as magnitude, direction, and resultant. You will learn how to add, subtract, and multiply vectors algebraically and geometrically. Then, you will determine if two vectors are perpendicular by finding their cross product. You will write, solve, and graph two-dimensional and three-dimensional vector and parametric equation problems. Finally, you will use your knowledge of vectors to solve real-world applications involving vectors.
Polar Coordinates and Complex Numbers
In this unit, you will expand your knowledge of complex numbers and be introduced to polar coordinates. You will continue your study of polar coordinates by graphing polar equations, converting polar and rectangular coordinates, and writing the polar form of a linear equation. Then, you will learn how to add, subtract, multiply, and divide complex numbers in rectangular form as well as multiply and divide complex numbers in polar form. Finally, you will use De Moivre’s Theorem to calculate the powers and roots of complex numbers.
Conics
In this unit, you will review and expand your knowledge of geometry. You will review how to find the distance and midpoint using a coordinate plane and prove geometric relationships. Then, you will use algebra to write and graph the standard and general form of an equation for circles, ellipses, hyperbolas, and parabolas. You will explore rectangular and parametric forms of conic sections. You will identify the discriminant and graph conic transformations. Finally, you will solve systems of second-degree equations and inequalities.
Exponential and Logarithmic Functions
In this unit, you will explore exponential and logarithmic functions. You will evaluate and simplify rational exponent expressions and equations, graph exponential equations and functions, and solve exponential growth and decay problems using the number e. Then, you will solve equations and inequalities involving common and natural logarithms. Finally, you will model real-world situations with exponential and logarithmic functions.
Sequences and Series
In this unit, you will continue your study of sequences and series. You will identify and use formulas to generate mathematical patterns, arithmetic sequences, and geometric sequences. You will explore limits and use them to evaluate infinite arithmetic and geometric sequences and series. Then, you will analyze a series to determine if it convergent or divergent. You will write a series in sigma notation using the nth term. You will learn the Binomial Theorem and use it to solve special sequences and series. Finally, you will solve and graph functions using iteration and prove conjectures using mathematical induction.
Combinatorics and Probability
In this unit, you will extend your knowledge of probability. You will review the Counting Principle, independent and dependent events, permutations, and combinations. You will explore permutations with repetitions and circular combinations. Then, you will solve problems that involve the probability of an event, odds, probability of a compound event, and conditional probability. Finally, you will find the probability of an event using the Binomial Theorem.
Statistics and Data Analysis
In this unit, you will explore statistics and data analysis methods. You will draw and interpret data using bar graphs, line plots, back-to-back bar graphs, three-dimensional bar graphs, and histograms. You will calculate measures of central tendency for a set of data. Then, you will analyze data using measures of variability including range, quartiles, interquartile range, semi-interquartile range, mean deviation, and standard deviation. You will explore normal distributions. Finally, you will determine the standard error of the mean and level of confidence for a sample set of data.
Calculus
In this unit, you will be introduced to the fundamental concepts in calculus. You will calculate limits for polynomial and rational functions. Then, you will explore derivatives and antiderivatives in polynomial functions. You will calculate the area under a curve using integrals. Finally, you will evaluate definite and indefinite integrals of a polynomial function using the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus.
Honors Precalculus B Final
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to prepare for and take the final exam. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes in the order of the course outline before you begin to review. Using the test-taking strategies that you have previously learned can help you be successful with both objective and essay questions.
Online Text/eBook
- Glencoe Advanced Mathematical Concepts
Textbook/Novel
- Glencoe Advanced Mathematical Concepts (opt)
Pre-Algebra A
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Description:
In Pre-Algebra A, students are introduced to basic algebraic principles by solving equations and inequalities with positive and negative integers, decimals, fractions, and exponents. Students move on to working with ratios, proportions, and percents, and then to solving two-step and multi-step equations and inequalities.
Units:
Algebraic Expressions and Integers
In this unit, you will review previously learned mathematical principles and extend prior mathematical knowledge. Concepts emphasized in this unit will reappear throughout the course, so take the time to complete each lesson carefully. You will review the concepts of order of operations, variables, writing variable expressions, and solving variable expressions. You will review integers and how to perform the four mathematical operations with integers as well as absolute values. Next, you will represent, order, and graph integers on a number line and a coordinate plane. You will learn to use inductive reasoning to determine patterns and solve real-world problems.
Solving One-Step Equations and Inequalities
In this unit, you will review the Associative, Commutative, Identity, and Distributive properties. These properties will enable you to simplify variable expressions and solve both equations and inequalities. You will learn to solve one-step equations and inequalities by using addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division as inverse operations. You will learn a problem-solving technique, “Try, Check, and Revise,” the first of many techniques within the course. Finally, you will learn to identify inequalities by their corresponding graphs.
Decimals and Equations
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to develop and extend your understanding of how to solve equations that contain decimals. You will develop estimation and rounding skills and apply this knowledge to calculating products and quotients of decimals. You will begin to explore mean, median, and mode as used in real-world applications. You will also convert metric units of measure and use formulas to solve simple equations. Finally, you will solve problems using the technique, “Simplify the Problem.”
Factors, Fractions, and Exponents
In this unit, you will expand your knowledge of divisibility rules and factors. This will enable you to quickly determine prime factorizations and greatest common factors which will enable you to simplify fractions more easily. You will extend your knowledge of exponents to include the addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of expressions, which include powers with the same base. Finally, you will learn to identify and simplify rational numbers that contain powers.
Operations With Fractions
In this unit, you will review basic fractions concepts: comparing, ordering, adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing mixed numbers and fractions. You will use these concepts to solve equations by adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing fractions. In addition to solving equations with fractions, you will apply your knowledge to convert customary units of measure. Finally, you will learn how to convert fractions to decimals by relating the values of fractions to the values of decimals.
Ratios, Proportions, and Percents
In this unit, you will expand your knowledge of percents and proportions by defining and solving problems involving ratios, rates, and unit rates. Then, you will use these concepts to solve similar figure, scale drawing, probability, and odds problems. You will also learn how to rewrite a percent as a ratio, in fraction form, and as a decimal in order to solve equations. Finally, you will learn how to find markup, discount, and percent of change by using percents.
Solving Equations and Inequalities
In this unit, you will expand your understanding of mathematical properties to solve two-step equations, two-step inequalities, and multi-step equations. These equations and inequalities are more complicated because they include fractions, decimals, and variables on both sides of the equal sign. You will also solve equations using the technique, “Write an Equation.”Finally, you will gain the necessary skills to transform formulas, which are necessary for finding simple and compound interest.
Pre-Algebra A Final
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to prepare for and take the final exam. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes in the order of the course outline before you begin to review. Using the test-taking strategies that you have previously learned can help you be successful with both objective and essay questions.
Online Text/eBook
- Prentice Hall Mathematics: Pre-Algebra
Textbook/Novel
- Prentice Hall Mathematics: Pre-Algebra (opt)
Workbook
- PH Pre-Algebra Study Guide and Practice Workbook
Pre-Algebra B
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of Pre-Algebra A or Math 8 Pre-Algebra A.
Description:
Students continue their study in basic algebraic principles in Pre-Algebra B. Students learn how to use graphs to solve linear relations and functions. Geometry concepts are introduced, including angle relationships, polygons, translations, and rotations. Algebra skills are applied across math disciplines with the study of volume and area problems, right triangles, data analysis, and probability.
Units:
Linear Functions and Graphing
In this unit, you will learn how to identify relations and functions. You will develop the necessary skills to solve systems of linear equations and inequalities by graphing, including plotting points and using the slope and y-intercept. In addition to graphing linear equations, you will also write rules for linear functions from word problems and tables. Finally, you will use real-world examples to find trends and make predictions from scatter plots.
Spatial Thinking
In this unit, you will be introduced to the basic figures of geometry, including points, lines, segments, and rays. You will use these figures to identify special pairs of lines and angles as well as apply what you will learn about line relationships and angle measure to classify triangles and quadrilaterals. You will also be able to determine how two triangles are congruent by identifying corresponding parts of polygons. You will use your knowledge of proportions to create and interpret circle graphs. Finally, you will be introduced to the study of translations, reflections, and rotations of geometric figures.
Area and Volume
In this unit, you will learn how to find the areas of parallelograms, triangles, trapezoids, and circles using formulas. You will determine the surface areas of prisms, cylinders, pyramids, cones, and spheres. You will calculate the volume of prisms and cylinders. You will also use these formulas to determine the areas of irregular shapes. Finally, you will learn about space figures and how to identify them using a net.
Right Triangles in Algebra
In this unit, you will expand your knowledge of algebra by finding square roots and classifying real numbers as either rational or irrational. You will use the Pythagorean Theorem to calculate the missing sides of right triangles, the Distance Formula to find the distance between two points, and the Midpoint Formula to find the midpoint of a segment. Then, you will learn about the special relationships that exist between the sides of 45º-45º-90º and 30º-60º-90º triangles. You will also solve problems that can be modeled with similar figures by using your knowledge of proportions. Finally, you will learn the trigonometric ratios sine, cosine, and tangent, as well as the angles of elevation and depression to find the missing values of right triangles.
Data Analysis and Probability
In this unit, you will learn how to display data in many different forms. You will create frequency tables, line plots, box-and-whisker plots, and stem-and-leaf plots. You will analyze persuasive graphs to determine if and how the data being presented is misleading. You will learn the differences between theoretical and experimental probabilities, and calculate the probabilities for independent and dependent events. You will also evaluate various sampling plans for surveys, as well as estimate data about populations. Finally, you will learn the differences between permutations and combinations and how to solve a problem by simulating the problem.
Nonlinear Functions and Polynomials
In this unit, you will explore the differences between arithmetic and geometric sequences and use them to make predictions. You will graph nonlinear functions such as quadratic and absolute value functions, and model exponential growth and decay using tables, rulers, and graphs. You will learn how to identify, evaluate, add, and subtract polynomials using models and combining like terms. Finally, you will multiply two binomials using the Distributive Property, and write a polynomial as the product of a monomial (GCF) and a polynomial.
Pre-Algebra B Final
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to prepare for and take the final exam. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes in the order of the course outline before you begin to review. Using the test-taking strategies that you have previously learned can help you be successful with both objective and essay questions.
Online Text/eBook
- Prentice Hall Mathematics: Pre-Algebra
Textbook/Novel
- Prentice Hall Mathematics: Pre-Algebra (opt)
Workbook
- PH Pre-Algebra Study Guide and Practice Workbook
Precalculus A
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Prerequisites:
Successful completion Algebra 2
Description:
This course is an in-depth study of functions and a review of algebraic, geometric, and trigonometric principles and techniques. Students investigate and explore the characteristics of linear, polynomial, and trigonometric functions, and use graphing calculators to solve and evaluate various functions, equations, and inequalities.
Units:
Linear Relations and Functions
In this unit, you will review previously learned mathematical principles and extend prior mathematical knowledge. Concepts emphasized in this unit will reappear throughout the course, so take the time to complete each lesson carefully.
As you work through the unit, you will have the opportunity to review properties and operations of linear and nonlinear relations and functions. You will focus on the concepts of function composition and use these concepts to graph functions. You will also review how to write linear equations as well as equations for parallel and perpendicular lines. Then, you will use these concepts to model real-world situations that involve linear functions. Finally, you will identify and graph piecewise functions.
Systems of Linear Equations and Inequalities
In this unit, you will evaluate and graph systems of equations with two and three variables. You will review how to add, subtract, and multiply matrices. Then, you will use matrices to model motion and solve systems of equations using the inverses of matrices. You will also solve systems of linear inequalities by graphing and locating the minimum and maximum values. Finally, you will be introduced to linear programming procedures and use these procedures to solve real-world linear programming problems.
The Nature of Graphs
In this unit, you will analyze and create graphs to solve many real-world situations. First, you will perform tests on a graph to determine if the graph of a relation is symmetrical. You will also identify and sketch linear and nonlinear families of graphs, including transformations, polynomials, absolute value, and radical inequalities. Then, you will solve and graph inverses of relations and functions problems. You will identify and evaluate continuity, end behavior, critical points, and extrema of functions. Finally, you will graph radical functions and solve direct, inverse, and joint variation problems.
Polynomial and Rational Functions
In this unit, you will continue your study of polynomial and rational functions. You will find the roots of polynomial equations as well as use the discriminant to describe the roots of quadratic equations. You will calculate the factors of a polynomial using the Remainder, Factor, and Rational Root Theorems. Then, you will solve rational equations and decompose a fraction into partial fractions. You will also solve radical equations and inequalities using the same procedures you learned throughout this unit. Finally, you will use polynomial functions to solve real-world situations.
The Trigonometric Functions
In this unit, you will explore trigonometric functions. You will review angle and degree measure concepts as well as how to calculate the values for the trigonometric ratios using a right triangle. You will find the values of the six trigonometric rations using the unit circle. Then, you will apply your knowledge of trigonometry to determine inverse trigonometric functions, to find missing angle and side measures, and to solve right triangles. Finally, you will explore and solve problems using the Law of Sines and the Law of Cosines.
Graphs of Trigonometric Functions
In this unit, you will continue your study of trigonometry by examining graphs of trigonometric functions. You will review angle and radian measure concepts including radian and degree measure, arc length, and area of a sector. You will explore linear and angular velocity. Then, you will examine the graphs for the sine and cosine functions. In addition, you will learn how to calculate the amplitude and period as well as translate the graphs for the sine and cosine functions. Finally, you will graph other trigonometric functions including secant, cosecant, tangent, and cotangent functions as well as graph inverse trigonometric functions.
Trigonometric Identities and Equations
In this unit, you will identify trigonometric identities and solve trigonometric equations. You will explore reciprocal, quotient, Pythagorean, symmetry, and opposite-angle trigonometric identities and use them to verify other trigonometric identities. Then, you will learn and solve trigonometric equations and inequalities using the sum, difference, double-angle, and half-angle identities. Finally, you will learn how to write a linear equation in normal form and find the distance from a point to a line.
Precalculus A Final
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to prepare for and take the final exam. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes in the order of the course outline before you begin to review. Using the test-taking strategies that you have previously learned can help you be successful with both objective and essay questions.
Online Text/eBook
- Glencoe Advanced Mathematical Concepts
Textbook/Novel
- Glencoe Advanced Mathematical Concepts (opt)
Precalculus B
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of Precalculus A
Description:
The second course in Precalculus examines vectors and parametric equations, complex numbers, and exponential and logarithmic functions. The final unit introduces students to the fundamentals of calculus. Mathematical reasoning and problem solving skills are stressed as students prepare for future high school or college coursework in calculus.
Units:
Vectors and Parametric Equations
In this unit, you will review previously learned mathematical principles and extend prior mathematical knowledge. Concepts emphasized in this unit will reappear throughout the course, so take the time to complete each lesson carefully.As you work through the unit, you will be introduced to vectors and parametric equations. You will explore vector notation, including terms such as magnitude, direction, and resultant. You will learn how to add, subtract, and multiply vectors algebraically and geometrically. Then, you will determine if two vectors are perpendicular by finding their cross product. You will write, solve, and graph two-dimensional and three-dimensional vector and parametric equation problems. Finally, you will use your knowledge of vectors to solve real-world applications involving vectors.
Polar Coordinates and Complex Numbers
In this unit, you will expand your knowledge of complex numbers and be introduced to polar coordinates. You will continue your study of polar coordinates by graphing polar equations, converting polar and rectangular coordinates, and writing the polar form of a linear equation. Then, you will learn how to add, subtract, multiply, and divide complex numbers in rectangular form as well as multiply and divide complex numbers in polar form. Finally, you will use De Moivre’s Theorem to calculate the powers and roots of complex numbers.
Conics
In this unit, you will review and expand your knowledge of geometry. You will review how to find the distance and midpoint using a coordinate plane and prove geometric relationships. Then, you will use algebra to write and graph the standard and general form of an equation for circles, ellipses, hyperbolas, and parabolas. You will explore rectangular and parametric forms of conic sections. You will identify the discriminant and graph conic transformations. Finally, you will solve systems of second-degree equations and inequalities.
Exponential and Logarithmic Functions
In this unit, you will explore exponential and logarithmic functions. You will evaluate and simplify rational exponent expressions and equations, graph exponential equations and functions, and solve exponential growth and decay problems using the number e. Then, you will solve equations and inequalities involving common and natural logarithms. Finally, you will model real-world situations with exponential and logarithmic functions.
Sequences and Series
In this unit, you will continue your study of sequences and series. You will identify and use formulas to generate mathematical patterns, arithmetic sequences, and geometric sequences. You will explore limits and use them to evaluate infinite arithmetic and geometric sequences and series. Then, you will analyze a series to determine if it convergent or divergent. You will write a series in sigma notation using the nth term. You will learn the Binomial Theorem and use it to solve special sequences and series. Finally, you will solve and graph functions using iteration and prove conjectures using mathematical induction.
Combinatorics and Probability
In this unit, you will extend your knowledge of probability. You will review the Counting Principle, independent and dependent events, permutations, and combinations. You will explore permutations with repetitions and circular combinations. Then, you will solve problems that involve the probability of an event, odds, probability of a compound event, and conditional probability. Finally, you will find the probability of an event using the Binomial Theorem.
Statistics and Data Analysis
In this unit, you will explore statistics and data analysis methods. You will draw and interpret data using bar graphs, line plots, back-to-back bar graphs, three-dimensional bar graphs, and histograms. You will calculate measures of central tendency for a set of data. Then, you will analyze data using measures of variability including range, quartiles, interquartile range, semi-interquartile range, mean deviation, and standard deviation. You will explore normal distributions. Finally, you will determine the standard error of the mean and level of confidence for a sample set of data.
Precalculus B Final
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to prepare for and take the final exam. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes in the order of the course outline before you begin to review. Using the test-taking strategies that you have previously learned can help you be successful with both objective and essay questions.
Online Text/eBook
- Glencoe Advanced Mathematical Concepts
Textbook/Novel
- Glencoe Advanced Mathematical Concepts (opt)
Statistics A
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of HS level algebra.
Description:
In this course, the student will be introduced to the major concepts of collecting, organizing, and drawing conclusions from data. The student will study four broad areas of introductory statistics: exploring data, which includes observing patterns and departures from patterns; planning a study by deciding what and how to measure; anticipating patterns and creating models using probability and simulation; and statistical inference by confirming these models.
Units:
Exploring Data
Statistics involves planning the experiment, and collecting, organizing, and analyzing data. In addition, statistics involves interpreting, summarizing, and presenting data. In this unit, you will examine parametric and non-parametric statistics, displaying distributions, inspecting distributions, time plots, measuring center, measuring spread, linear transformation, and comparing distributions.
The Normal Distributions
In this unit, you will examine density curves, normal distributions, normal distribution calculations, and assessing normality. In addition, you will learn how to assess normality.
Examining Relationships
A great deal of statistics deals with the study of relationships of two or more variables. This unit explores bivariate data, the study of the relationships between two variables. In this unit, you will examine scatterplots, correlation, least squares regression, and r2 and residuals.
More on Two-Variable Data
Throughout this unit, you will continue to explore two-variable data. You will learn about transforming relationships, cautions about correlation and regression, and relations in categorical data.
Producing Data
Exploratory data analysis seeks to discover and describe what data mean by using graphs and numerical summaries. The conclusions you draw from data analysis apply to the specific data that you examine. In this unit, you will practice designing samples and experiments as well as simulating experiments.
Statistics A Final
Textbook/Novel
- The Practice of Statistics
Statistics B
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of Statistics A
Description:
In this course, the student will be introduced to the major concepts of collecting, organizing, and drawing conclusions from data. The student will study four broad areas of introductory statistics: exploring data, which includes observing patterns and departures from patterns; planning a study by deciding what and how to measure; anticipating patterns and creating models using probability and simulation; and statistical inference by confirming these models.
Units:
Probability: The Study of Randomness
Probability is the branch of mathematics that deals with the concept of chance. In this unit, you will examine the rules of probability, use contingency tables to draw and analyze tree diagrams, and apply Bayes' Theorem to solve real-world problems.
Random Variables
A random variable is a numerical value that is defined or determined by the outcomes or events of an experiment. In this unit, you will explore probability distributions of discrete random variables, calculate the mean and variance of random variables, apply the rules for means and variances, and examine the law of large numbers.
The Binomial and Geometric Distributions
In this unit, you will explore the properties of binomial and geometric distributions. You will calculate the probabilities of the outcomes of binomial and geometric distributions and compare binomial to normal approximations.
Sampling Distributions
The collection of all of the samples from a population forms a sampling distribution. In this unit, you will compare parameters and statistics, examine sampling distributions, analyze a sampling distribution of a sample mean, and apply the central limit theorem to solve problems.
Introduction to Inference
The main goal of this unit is to describe the reasoning used in statistical inference, which provides the methods for drawing conclusions about populations from sample data. You will have the opportunity to apply concepts presented earlier in this course to statistical inference. You will be introduced to the techniques of inference and build on those techniques in later units in the course.
Statistics B Final
Textbook/Novel
- The Practice of Statistics
AP Biology A
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of Biology and Chemistry
Description:
AP Biology is a year-long course, taught at the same level as a first-year college class. The course has two main goals: to help students develop a framework for the study of biology, and to better understand the process of scientific thinking, as opposed to merely memorizing facts. In the first semester, major themes include organic molecules and free energy charges, prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, cellular energetics, heredity, and molecular genetics.
Units:
The Chemistry of Life
Welcome to AP Biology A! In this unit, you will learn how the fields of chemistry and biology are interrelated. Throughout this unit, you will study biological diversity, the scientific method, and the basics of matter and elements. You will also study chemical reactions, the properties of water, and the differences between acids and bases. Upon completion of this unit, you will have a better understanding of the chemical processes that are necessary for life.
The Cell
In this unit, you will focus on the cell structure and its processes. You will learn to differentiate between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, and you will explore the various components of cells. Throughout this unit, you will complete several labs that cover topics including diffusion and osmosis, cellular respiration, photosynthesis, and mitosis. Upon completion of this unit, you will have a better understanding of the basic functions of cells.
Genetics
In this unit, you will examine the scientific field of genetics. You will learn about genetic variation, genetic disorders, and gene expression. You will also study the basics of genetics—chromosomes, genes, and DNA. Upon completion of this unit, you will have learned about various aspects of DNA and mapping entire genomes.
Mechanisms of Evolution
In this unit, you will study the theory of evolution. You will focus on scientific ideas presented by Darwin, Lamarck, Fyell, and Linneaus, and you will complete a lab on population genetics and evolution. You will also study adaptive evolution, macroevolution, and the importance of phylogenetic trees. Upon completion of this unit, you will have a better understanding of how species evolved on Earth.
Final Exam
In this unit, you will take the final exam. The final exam may include any material that has been presented throughout the semester. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes before you begin to review for the final exam.
Course Sets
- AP Biology
- Biology 8th Edition - Campbell Reece
Kit
- AP Biology Kit
- .1 M Phosphate Buffer Bottle
- .5 M Sucrose Solution Bottle
- 1% Glucose liquid solution bottle
- 100 mL beaker
- 5 x 8 bags
- Apron
- Bag, cheesecloth
- Batteries AA
- Beaker, 250-mL
- Bean bags
- Blue bean bag
- Bromothymol blue bottle
- Dialysis tubing bag
- Dissolved oxygen testabs
- DPIP bottle
- Fan
- Glass Test Tube
- Gloves
- Glocuse test trips bag
- Graduated Cylinder (100 mL)
- Green bead bag
- Jar, Canning
- Lugols reagent bottle
- Medicine/Measuring cups
- Mineral oil bottle
- Paper bag, filter
- Parafilm bag
- Petri Dish
- Pipet (bag of 20)
- Pop It bead bag
- Red bead bag
- Rubber band bag
- Safety glasses
- Sodium chloride bottle
- Sodium polyacrylate bag
- Starch liquid solution bottle
- Test Tube Rack
- Test tube, Plastic
- Test Tubes, 13mm x 100mm
- Thermometer
- Underpad
- Wash Bottle
- Yellow bead bag
AP Biology B
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of AP Biology A
Description:
AP Biology is a year-long course, taught at the same level as a first-year college class. The course has two main goals: to help students develop a framework for the study of biology, and to better understand the process of scientific thinking, as opposed to merely memorizing facts. In the second semester, major themes include organic molecules and free energy charges, prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, cellular energetics, heredity, and molecular genetics.
Units:
The Evolutionary History of Biological Diversity
Welcome to AP Biology B! In this unit, you will learn about biological diversity—from prokaryotes to eukaryotes, and vertebrates to invertebrates. Throughout the unit, you will study plant diversity, animal diversity, and animal development. Upon completion of this unit, you will have a better understanding of the vast diversity that exists among plants and animals.
Plant Form and Function
In this unit, you will focus on plant form and function. You will study plant cells and tissues, and how plants grow. In addition, you will study plant nutrition, soil quality, and plant responses. Upon completion of this unit, you will be able to explain the natural processes that occur in different types of plants.
Animal Form and Function
In this unit, you will study animal form and function. You will learn about the various body systems in animals, including the circulatory, immune, reproductive, and nervous systems. You will also study how gases are exchanged, how hormones are regulated, and how the senses are used. Upon completion of this unit, you will have a better understanding of animal parts and processes.
Ecology
In this unit, you will learn about the scientific field of ecology. You will learn how and why scientists study organisms and their environments, and you will learn about the similar fields of conservation biology and restoration ecology. Upon completion of this unit, you will have a better understanding of animal behaviors, interactions within a community of organisms, and energy transfer within the environment.
Final Exam
In this unit, you will take the final exam. The final exam may include any material that has been presented throughout the semester. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes before you begin to review for the final exam.
Course Sets
- AP Biology
- Biology 8th Edition - Campbell Reece
Kit
- AP Biology Kit
- .1 M Phosphate Buffer Bottle
- .5 M Sucrose Solution Bottle
- 1% Glucose liquid solution bottle
- 100 mL beaker
- 5 x 8 bags
- Apron
- Bag, cheesecloth
- Batteries AA
- Beaker, 250-mL
- Bean bags
- Blue bean bag
- Bromothymol blue bottle
- Dialysis tubing bag
- Dissolved oxygen testabs
- DPIP bottle
- Fan
- Glass Test Tube
- Gloves
- Glocuse test trips bag
- Graduated Cylinder (100 mL)
- Green bead bag
- Jar, Canning
- Lugols reagent bottle
- Medicine/Measuring cups
- Mineral oil bottle
- Paper bag, filter
- Parafilm bag
- Petri Dish
- Pipet (bag of 20)
- Pop It bead bag
- Red bead bag
- Rubber band bag
- Safety glasses
- Sodium chloride bottle
- Sodium polyacrylate bag
- Starch liquid solution bottle
- Test Tube Rack
- Test tube, Plastic
- Test Tubes, 13mm x 100mm
- Thermometer
- Underpad
- Wash Bottle
- Yellow bead bag
AP Environmental Science
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of two years of laboratory sciences and Algebra
Description:
AP Environmental Scienceacquaints students with the physical, ecological, social, and political principles of environmental science. Students use the scientific method to analyze and understand the interrelationships between humans and nature. Students also examine the way ecological realities and humans’ material desires often clash, causing pollution and damaging the environment. The course consists of six chapters: Earth’s Systems, Human Population Dynamics, Natural Resources, Environmental Quality, Global Change, and Environment and Society. Each chapter contains text, animations, laboratory simulations, and video presentations by experts.
Course Sets
AP Physics B A
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of Trigonometry, Physics, and PreCalculus
Description:
Physics is the science of matter and energy—how the universe is put together. AP Physics A and B are non-calculus survey courses covering five general areas: Newtonian mechanics, thermal physics, electricity and magnetism, waves and optics, and atomic and nuclear physics. In AP Physics A, the student will be introduced to physics and will concentrate on Newtonian mechanics, fluid mechanics, and thermal physics. The student will get an understanding of the core principles involved and learn to apply these principles in the solution of problems. This course is two semesters.
Course Sets
- AP Physics
- PH Physics: Principles with Applications
- Physlet Physics: Interactive Illustrations
Kit
- AP Physics Kit
- Batteries AA
- Battery holder
- Concave Mirror
- Conductor 2 Snaps
- Conductor 3 Snaps
- Convex Mirror
- Cup, styrofoam
- Fishing line (1 ft)
- Hanging Mass Set
- Laser Pointer
- LED green
- LED red
- Marbles
- Metal Washers
- Mini Base Grid
- Refraction Cell
- Resistor 1 K
- Ruler
- Ruler with groove
- Salt 1 T.
- Single Snap
- Snap Jumper Wire Black
- Snap Jumper Wire Red
- Spring
- Spring scale
- Stopwatch
- Switch Slide
- Tube, Aluminum or Plastic
AP Physics B B
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of Trigonometry, Physics, PreCalculus and AP Physics A.
Description:
AP Physics B explores matter and energy—the way the universe is put together. This survey course, which does not require calculus, covers five general areas: Newtonian mechanics, thermal physics, electricity and magnetism, waves and optics, and atomic and nuclear physics. Students will learn the core principles involved, then apply them to solve various problems.
Course Sets
- AP Physics
- PH Physics: Principles with Applications
- Physlet Physics: Interactive Illustrations
Kit
- AP Physics Kit
- Batteries AA
- Battery holder
- Concave Mirror
- Conductor 2 Snaps
- Conductor 3 Snaps
- Convex Mirror
- Cup, styrofoam
- Fishing line (1 ft)
- Hanging Mass Set
- Laser Pointer
- LED green
- LED red
- Marbles
- Metal Washers
- Mini Base Grid
- Refraction Cell
- Resistor 1 K
- Ruler
- Ruler with groove
- Salt 1 T.
- Single Snap
- Snap Jumper Wire Black
- Snap Jumper Wire Red
- Spring
- Spring scale
- Stopwatch
- Switch Slide
- Tube, Aluminum or Plastic
Biology A
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Description:
Designed as a preparation for college-level biology courses, students in Biology A study the role of a biologist, analyze the life of a cell, make genetic predictions, and infer how and why organisms change. Hands-on explorations and virtual simulations enhance students’ comprehension of key science concepts.
Units:
What is Biology?
Welcome to biology, the study of the diversity and unity of living organisms. In this opening unit, you will review the common characteristics of all organisms, examine various scientific methods, compare quantitative and qualitative information, and begin to examine how scientific discovery may affect society.
Ecology
All living and nonliving components on Earth, including plants, animals, water, air, and soil, have an effect on each other. Ecology is the study of how living and nonliving elements interact. In this unit you will study these interactions as you identify biotic and abiotic factors that exist in different ecosystems, study the characteristics of different biomes, analyze how and why ecosystems change, and examine people’s impact on the environment.
The Life of a Cell
No matter how simple or complex, buildings are all composed of basic units of structural materials. Similarly, all organisms are made up of one or more cells, the basic units of life. In this unit you will explore the life of a cell as you study the chemistry of cells, identify cell structures and functions, examine how cells transfer matter and energy, and analyze the cell cycle.
Genetics
Most physical traits, such as eye and hair color, are passed on from one generation to the next. In this unit you will learn how genetics plays a role in determining traits as you study the history of genetics, analyze the structure and function of DNA, study patterns of heredity, and explore how genetic technology influences human life.
Change Through Time
Just as Earth itself is dynamic, so is the life that exists upon it. In this unit you will explore how life on Earth has changed as you examine hypotheses about how life began, study the theory of evolution, analyze ancestral evidence of humans, and compare ways in which organisms are classified.
Final Review and Exam
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to prepare for and take the final exam. The final exam may include any material that has been presented throughout the semester. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes and answers to questions in your Science journal before you begin to review.
Online Text/eBook
- Glencoe Biology: The Dynamics of Life
Textbook/Novel
- Glencoe Biology: The Dynamics of Life (opt)
Biology B
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Description:
In Biology B, students examine and compare plant and animal species, beginning with the simplest bacteria and finishing with complex systems of mammals. The final unit examines the systems of the human body, with additional lessons on the human lifecycle, nutrition, and the effects of pharmaceuticals. Students complete traditional lessons as well as hands-on and virtual labs to reinforce important concepts and theories.
Units:
Viruses, Bacteria, Protists, and Fungi
We can readily recognize plant and animal diversity because plants and animals are readily visible. However, much of life’s diversity exists in organisms that we do not see every day such as bacteria, protists, and fungi. In this unit you will examine and compare different types of bacteria, protists, and fungi. In addition, you will analyze the characteristics of viruses, nonliving things commonly confused with bacteria.
Plants
By now you probably know that plants are essential for most life on Earth. Not only do they provide food and energy for most organisms, they also supply life-sustaining gases. In this unit you will study the characteristics and functions of a vast array of plants and analyze the similarities and differences among them.
Invertebrates
The majority of animals on Earth are invertebrates, or animals without backbones. These animals can exist almost anywhere on Earth–from the deepest crevices of the ocean floors to the steepest snow-covered mountain tops. In this unit you will explore the variations that enable invertebrates to adapt to almost any environment and sustain almost any condition.
Vertebrates
Humans have many biological, social, and cultural ties with other vertebrates, or animals with backbones. Some people keep vertebrates, such as birds, fish, dogs, and cats, as pets. Many people rely on the products of these animals, such as milk, eggs, and leather. Some view specific vertebrates, such as cows, as religious or cultural symbols. In this unit you will explore the characteristics, adaptations, and behaviors of various types of vertebrates.
The Human Body
The human body is a complex system of chemicals, organs, vessels, and connectors that enable people to compete in soccer games, solve algebra problems, and make decisions about how to spend their free time. In this unit you will analyze the major systems of the human body and examine how they interact with one another.
Final Review and Exam
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to prepare for and take the final exam. The final exam may include any material that has been presented throughout the semester. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes and answers to questions in your Science journal before you begin to review.
Online Text/eBook
- Glencoe Biology: The Dynamics of Life
Textbook/Novel
- Glencoe Biology: The Dynamics of Life (opt)
Chemistry A
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Description:
Chemistry A is the first of two comprehensive courses incorporating math support and problem-solving along side the chemistry curriculum. The first course provides a foundation in elemental chemistry; students explore the atoms and elements, concepts in chemical bonding, and how atoms and elements react to one another.
Units:
Introduction to Chemistry
Chemistry can help explain much of what is happening in the world around you. This branch of science is vast because it deals with the study of matter, which is present just about everywhere. In this introductory unit, you will study the different areas of chemistry, identify how chemistry affects various industries, review the steps of the scientific method, and examine the measurement system that all scientists use. You will also learn how to measure, convert, and calculate accurately to solve chemistry problems. You will repeatedly apply these math concepts throughout the course.
An Overview of Matter and Change
Chemistry is the study of matter and the changes it undergoes. In this unit you will begin to examine the basic types of matter and the factors that may alter it. You will learn how to classify matter, review the chemical naming system of elements, describe the physical and chemical properties of different substances, and analyze chemical and physical changes of matter. You will further explore some of these concepts later in the course.
Atoms and Elements
In order to understand the composition of matter, you need to understand the structure of an atom, the smallest particle of an element that has all the characteristics of that element. In this unit you will study the composition of atoms and elements. You will examine various historic models of the atom, learn how to write an electron configuration for an atom, compare atoms of different elements, and learn how an atom becomes an ion. In addition, you will review how elements are organized in the periodic table and analyze trends in the table.
Chemical Bonding
Atoms and molecules constantly combine to form new substances. In this unit you will learn how different types of chemical bonding occur. You will examine how atoms become charged ions; compare ionic, metallic, and covalent bonds; model how atoms combine; describe the properties of different types of compounds; and evaluate the strength of bonds. It is important that you to understand how chemical bonding occurs before you study chemical reactions.
Chemical Formulas and Reactions
In order to understand many core chemistry concepts, you must be able represent and analyze chemical reactions. In this unit you will practice doing so as you apply rules for naming and writing chemical formulas, balance equations, compare and interpret empirical and molecular formulas, and predict the products of different types of reactions. In addition, you will learn how to convert one quantity of a substance, such as mass or volume, to another, such as moles or number of particles, and calculate percent composition of a compound.
Stoichiometry
In order to thoroughly understand chemical equations, you need to be able to mathematically interpret them. In this unit you will apply math concepts in order to analyze chemical equations in terms of moles, particles, mass, and volume. You will also learn how to calculate the maximum amount of product that reaction can produce.
Final Review and Exam
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to prepare for and take the final exam. The final exam may include any material that has been presented throughout the semester. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes and answers to questions in your Science journal before you begin to review.
CD/DVD
Online Text/eBook
Textbook/Novel
- Prentice Hall Chemistry (opt)
Chemistry B
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Description:
Visual learning and hands-on exercises help reinforce the concepts covered in Chemistry B, which include the properties of matter, solutions, and energy. Students are also introduced to the principles of electrochemistry, organic chemistry, and nuclear chemistry.
Units:
Solids, Liquids, and Gases
In this unit you will analyze the states of matter in terms of particles and use the kinetic theory of matter to describe the behavior of matter in each state. You will predict how temperature, volume, and the number of particles affect gas pressure, and how to quantify these effects using Boyle’s, Charles’s, and the combined gas laws. You will have the opportunity to perform a virtual lab to investigate the relationship between the pressure and volume of a gas. Finally, you will learn how solutions form and compare different types of solutions.
Solutions, Acids, and Bases
In this unit you will continue to learn about different types of solutions as you examine some special properties of solutions and solve problems involving solubility and concentration. You will explore acids and bases as you compare acid-base theories, calculate acid and base concentrations, and describe what happens during neutralization reactions. You will have the opportunity to perform a virtual and a hands-on titration lab at the end of the unit.
Heat, Energy, and Reactions
In this unit you will continue to explore chemical reactions in terms of heat and energy as you learn how scientists measure the heat of a reaction and solve problems involving heat transfers in chemical reactions. You will identify factors that affect the rate of a reaction and design an experiment to test these factors. Finally, you will learn how amounts of reactants and products change in a chemical system at equilibrium and identify stresses that can change the equilibrium of a chemical reaction.
Electrochemistry
In this unit you will study electrochemistry, the branch of chemistry that deals with the relationship between electricity and chemical changes. You will examine how reactants and products gain and lose electrons, learn how to determine the oxidation number of an atom, and compare different types of electrochemical cells, which convert electrical energy into chemical energy or vice versa. In addition, you will have the opportunity to perform a virtual redox titration.
Organic Chemistry
Many everyday items, such as clothes, food, and containers, are carbon-based, or organic compounds. Throughout this unit you will classify organic compounds, model their structures, examine how they form, and identify the organic compounds that certain common products contain. In addition, you will learn about the roles that carbon plays in biochemical processes.
Nuclear Chemistry
Although nuclear materials are fairly common, most people do not know exactly what they are or what makes them both beneficial and dangerous. In this unit, you will explore different types and uses of radioactivity and analyze the various changes that nuclear particles may undergo. Also, you will learn how nuclear waste is stored and how scientists detect radiation.
Final Review and Exam
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to prepare for and take the final exam. The final exam may include any material that has been presented throughout the semester. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes and answers to questions in your Science journal before you begin to review.
CD/DVD
Online Text/eBook
Textbook/Novel
- Prentice Hall Chemistry (opt)
Earth Science A
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Description:
This is the first of two courses that comprise Earth Science. This course is designed to prepare the student to confidently enter and complete college-level Earth science courses. The Prentice Hall text, Earth Science, provides the basis for the course content.
This course consists of varied curriculum that provides the student the opportunity to explore, compare, research, reflect, and make real-world connections. The student will engage in hands-on explorations and virtual simulations, which will enhance traditional lesson formats.
During this course, the student will identify the branches of Earth science, locate geographic features on topographic maps, conduct hands-on experiments with minerals and rocks, compare and contrast weathering and erosion, explore plate tectonics with relation to earthquakes and volcanoes, and investigate the formation of mountains.
Units:
Introduction to Earth Science
Earth Science is a vast branch of science that covers many subject areas, including geology, oceanography, meteorology, and astronomy. Earth scientists study physical and chemical aspects of Earth and its place in the solar system, using various mapping techniques and advanced global positioning technology. Because Earth contains so many interactive parts, scientists often study Earth as a system. The Earth system is powered by energy from the sun and by geologic forces inside Earth.
In this introductory unit, you will learn about Earth’s composition and internal structure. You will read about different techniques that scientists use to study Earth and other planets in the solar system and you will learn how the theory of plate tectonics influences the field of Earth science. You will explore Earth’s four major spheres—the geosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere—and you will determine how human activity impacts the Earth system.
Minerals
Did you know that close to 4,000 different minerals have been identified on Earth? When scientists discover a new mineral, they study its physical characteristics and try to determine how it may have formed. Once a mineral has been named, it can be grouped with other minerals that share similar properties.
In this unit, you will examine some of the more common mineral groups on Earth, including silicates, carbonates, oxides, sulfates, sulfides, halides, and native elements. You will learn about mineral properties and the tests that scientists conduct to classify minerals. You will also study elements, atoms, and subatomic particles, and you will learn how atoms of different elements combine to form compounds.
Rocks
When different minerals mix together, they form rocks. There are three main types of rocks on Earth—igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic—each of which forms in a unique way. Rocks can change from one type to another because of the rock cycle, which you will learn about, and the constant changes within Earth’s interior.
In this unit, you will study each rock type in great detail. You will learn how each one forms and where scientists usually find that type of rock on Earth. You will explore the rock cycle and the natural processes that influence rock transformations. At the end of the unit, you will conduct an investigation using various samples from your rock kit.
Earth's Resources
Earth contains valuable resources—such as air and water—that are used every day by plants, animals, and humans. These resources are categorized into two main groups: renewable resources and nonrenewable resources. Since there are limited amounts of nonrenewable resources on Earth, scientists have determined alternative ways to extract energy from resources such as wind, water, and the sun.
In this unit, you will explore different forms of renewable and nonrenewable resources. You will read about fossil fuels and the ways they are used to produce energy for various human activities. You will identify alternative energy resources and their advantages and disadvantages, and you will explore how Earth’s natural resources can be protected from harmful pollutants and overuse.
Sculpturing Earth's Surface
Geologically, Earth is constantly changing. Earth’s surface is influenced by internal forces that create mountains and external forces that weather and erode Earth’s crust. Some geologic changes occur over long periods of time, while others happen quickly, drastically changing landscapes in minutes.
In this unit, you will study processes that sculpt Earth’s surface, including weathering, erosion, deposition, and even human activities such as logging and construction. You will learn how and why mass movements occur, and you will explore the various ways water can shape landscapes over time.
Glaciers, Deserts, and Wind
Glaciers cover and shape approximately 10 percent of the total land area on Earth. As a glacier moves—or flows—it erodes rock from valley floors and walls. In sharp contrast, deserts are areas that lack moisture and have very little organic material. Desert ecosystems are easily shaped by running water and wind.
In this unit, you will learn about glaciers and deserts. You will study different types of glaciers and how they move, and you will read how sand- and pebble-covered deserts are affected by the processes of weathering and erosion. At the end of the unit, you will take a closer look at exactly how wind erodes desert landscapes.
Earthquakes and Earth's Interior
Caused by the rapid release of energy stored inside Earth, earthquakes can greatly damage Earth’s surface, particularly if they occur near a large city. Earthquakes can create various hazards, including seismic shaking, landslides, and even tsunamis.
In this unit, you will explore earthquakes and why they occur. By completing the lab Locating an Earthquake you will learn how scientists are able to determine an earthquake’s epicenter and its focus. In order to understand how scientists measure earthquakes, you will study two types of seismic waves: body waves and surface waves.
Plate Tectonics and Other Igneous Activity
The hypothesis of continental drift, followed by the theory of plate tectonics, significantly changed scientists’ understanding of Earth’s geologic forces. As scientists began to accept new ideas about movement within Earth’s layers, they were able to explain many other geologic forces, such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and even seafloor spreading.
In this unit, you will explore the theory of plate tectonics and how it impacted the field of geology. You will learn what causes tectonic plate motion and you will examine different types of plate boundaries. During the unit, you will read how volcanic eruptions are directly related to activity within Earth’s interior. You will learn about different types of volcanism and you will study the three main types of volcanoes: shield, cinder cone, and composite cone.
Mountain Building
Mountains are classified into four main types: volcanic, folded, fault-block, and dome. These types of mountains can be found in various places on Earth’s surface. The mountain-building process occurs mostly at convergent plate boundaries, where colliding plates result in massive forces that create mountains.
In this unit, you will explore how and where mountains are built on Earth’s surface. You will identify the four main types of mountains and at which convergent plate boundary they usually occur. During the unit, you will complete an investigation of anticlines and synclines, which will help you better understand the different types of folded mountains.
Final Review and Exam
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to prepare for and take the final exam. The final exam may include any material that has been presented throughout the semester. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes and answers to questions in your science journal before you begin to review.
CD/DVD
- Prentice Hall Virtual Earth Science
Kit
- Science Kit- Earth Science
- Goggles, safety
- Thermometers (2)
Online Text/eBook
- Prentice Hall Earth Science
Textbook/Novel
- Prentice Hall Earth Science (opt)
Earth Science B
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Description:
This is the second of two courses that comprise Earth Science. This course is designed to prepare the student to confidently enter and complete college-level Earth science courses. The Prentice Hall text, Earth Science, provides the basis for the course content.
This course consists of varied curriculum that provides the student the opportunity to explore, compare, research, reflect, and make real-world connections. The student will engage in hands-on explorations and virtual simulations, which will enhance traditional lesson formats.
During this course, the student will explore Earth’s history by studying fossils and rock layers; investigate oceanic productivity and features on the sea floor; learn about atmospheric processes, including the water cycle; infer how severe storms form; study the Earth-moon-sun relationship; and explore other celestial bodies, such as stars.
Units:
Geologic Time and Earth's History
In this introductory unit, you will explore Earth's early history by studying fossils, the rock record, and the geologic time scale. You will learn how scientists are able to date rock layers using radiometric dating, and how they are able to develop theories of past environments using fossils. In addition, you will learn how the geologic time scale is organized and how it was originally developed by scientists in the 1800s.
During this unit, you will complete a lab on fossils, which will enable you to understand how fossils can be used to define rock sequences. At the end of the unit, you will study Precambrian Time and the Paleozoic, Mesozoic, and Cenozoic Eras. You will learn how Earth changed biologically and geologically during these important time periods in history.
Oceanography
In this unit, your reading assignments and activity components will immerse you in the field of oceanography. From physical features of the ocean floor to ocean productivity and the diversity of marine life, you will find that you cover most aspects of the world's oceans throughout this unit.
During this unit, you will study the density of seawater. You will be asked to complete a Virtual Lab in which you will experiment with different solids and liquids, to better understand density. At the end of the unit, you will learn about waves, tides, and how ocean waters circulate throughout the world. You will also learn about shoreline processes and how various features are created due to natural causes.
Meteorology: Part 1
In this unit, you will study various topics within the field of meteorology. You will learn how to differentiate between weather and climate, and you will compare and contrast heat and temperature. When studying heat, you will complete an investigation about the specific heat of land and water.
During this unit, you will also explore how clouds form. You will learn about the four processes that lift air—orographic lifting, frontal wedging, convergence, and localized convective lifting—and you will study how different types of precipitation form. At the end of the unit, you will study air pressure and wind. You will learn how air pressure is exerted on objects and how local and regional wind patterns form.
Meteorology: Part 2
In this unit, you will continue your study of meteorology. First you will learn about air masses and how they are classified. Then you will explore fronts, including: warm fronts, cold fronts, stationary fronts, and occluded fronts. You will also study severe storms and you will identify the conditions in which they form.
During this unit, you will explore global climates and the characteristics that define them. You will learn about some of the natural processes that can cause changes in climate, and you will study global warming. Upon completion of the unit, you will have a better understanding of the consequences of global warming and climate change.
Astronomy: Part 1
In this unit, you will begin to study outer space. You will first learn how early astronomers viewed Earth's place in the solar system, and you will study famous contributors to early astronomy, such as Galileo and Newton. Next you will study the Earth-moon-sun system and you will identify different features on the surface of the moon.
During this unit, you will examine the solar system and its interrelated parts. You will learn about the terrestrial and Jovian planets, as well as other bodies such as asteroids, meteors, and comets. By the end of the lesson, you will be able to explain why Pluto is no longer considered one of the planets in our solar system.
Astronomy: Part 2
In this unit, you will study light and how it applies to the field of astronomy. You will examine the electromagnetic spectrum and you will learn how the Doppler effect can be used to study stars. You will also study the following types of telescopes: refracting, reflecting, radio, and space.
During this unit, you will investigate the orbital speed of the planets in our solar system. You will also learn about star properties and the birth, life, and death of stars. Finally, you will learn about the universe on a greater scale; you will discover that scientists believe in universal expansion and you will study the big bang theory.
Final Review and Exam
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to prepare for and take the final exam. The final exam may include any material that has been presented throughout the semester. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes and answers to questions in your science journal before you begin to review.
CD/DVD
- Prentice Hall Virtual Earth Science
Kit
- Science Kit- Earth Science
- Goggles, safety
- Thermometers (2)
Online Text/eBook
- Prentice Hall Earth Science
Textbook/Novel
- Prentice Hall Earth Science (opt)
Honors Biology A
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Description:
Designed as a preparation for college-level biology courses, students in Honors Biology A study the role of a biologist, analyze the life of a cell, make genetic predictions, and infer how and why organisms change. Hands-on explorations and virtual simulations enhance students’ comprehension of key science concepts. This Honors level course includes more rigorous curriculum and greater opportunities for students explore concepts, engage in independent research, and demonstrate critical thinking skills.
Units:
What is Biology?
Welcome to biology, the study of the diversity and unity of living organisms. In this opening unit, you will review the common characteristics of all organisms, examine various scientific methods, compare quantitative and qualitative information, and begin to examine how scientific discovery may affect society.
Ecology
All living and nonliving components on Earth, including plants, animals, water, air, and soil, have an effect on each other. Ecology is the study of how living and nonliving elements interact. In this unit you will study these interactions as you identify biotic and abiotic factors that exist in different ecosystems, study the characteristics of different biomes, analyze how and why ecosystems change, and examine people’s impact on the environment.
The Life of a Cell
No matter how simple or complex, buildings are all composed of basic units of structural materials. Similarly, all organisms are made up of one or more cells, the basic units of life. In this unit you will explore the life of a cell as you study the chemistry of cells, identify cell structures and functions, examine how cells transfer matter and energy, and analyze the cell cycle.
Genetics
Most physical traits, such as eye and hair color, are passed on from one generation to the next. In this unit you will learn how genetics plays a role in determining traits as you study the history of genetics, analyze the structure and function of DNA, study patterns of heredity, and explore how genetic technology influences human life.
Change Through Time
Just as Earth itself is dynamic, so is thelife that exists upon it. In this unit you will explore how life on Earth has changed as you examine hypotheses about how life began, study the theory of evolution, analyze ancestral evidence of humans, and compare ways in which organisms are classified.
Final Review and Exam
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to prepare for and take the final exam. The final exam may include any material that has been presented throughout the semester. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes and answers to questions in your Science journal before you begin to review.
Online Text/eBook
- Glencoe Biology: The Dynamics of Life
Textbook/Novel
- Glencoe Biology: The Dynamics of Life (opt)
Honors Biology B
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Description:
In Honors Biology B, students examine and compare plant and animal species, beginning with the simplest bacteria and finishing with complex systems of mammals. The final unit examines the systems of the human body, with additional lessons on the human lifecycle, nutrition, and the effects of pharmaceuticals. As an Honors level course, students explore concepts, engage in independent research, and demonstrate critical thinking skills. They also complete hands-on and virtual labs to reinforce important concepts and theories.
Units:
Viruses, Bacteria, Protists, and Fungi
We can readily recognize plant and animal diversity because plants and animals are readily visible. However, much of life’s diversity exists in organisms that we do not see every day such as bacteria, protists, and fungi. In this unit you will examine and compare different types of bacteria, protists, and fungi. In addition, you will analyze the characteristics of viruses, nonliving things commonly confused with bacteria.
Plants
By now you probably know that plants are essential for most life on Earth. Not only do they provide food and energy for most organisms, they also supply life-sustaining gases. In this unit you will study the characteristics and functions of a vast array of plants and analyze the similarities and differences among them.
Invertebrates
The majority of animals on Earth are invertebrates, or animals without backbones. These animals can exist almost anywhere on Earth–from the deepest crevices of the ocean floors to the steepest snow-covered mountain tops. In this unit you will explore the variations that enable invertebrates to adapt to almost any environment and sustain almost any condition.
Vertebrates
Humans have many biological, social, and cultural ties with other vertebrates, or animals with backbones. Some people keep vertebrates, such as birds, fish, dogs, and cats, as pets. Many people rely on the products of these animals, such as milk, eggs, and leather. Some view specific vertebrates, such as cows, as religious or cultural symbols. In this unit you will explore the characteristics, adaptations, and behaviors of various types of vertebrates.
The Human Body
The human body is a complex system of chemicals, organs, vessels, and connectors that enable people to compete in soccer games, solve algebra problems, and make decisions about how to spend their free time. In this unit you will analyze the major systems of the human body and examine how they interact with one another.
Final Review and Exam
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to prepare for and take the final exam. The final exam may include any material that has been presented throughout the semester. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes and answers to questions in your Science journal before you begin to review.
Online Text/eBook
- Glencoe Biology: The Dynamics of Life
Textbook/Novel
- Glencoe Biology: The Dynamics of Life (opt)
Honors Chemistry A
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Description:
Honors Chemistry A is the first of two comprehensive courses incorporating math support and problem-solving along side the rigorous chemistry curriculum. The first course provides a foundation in elemental chemistry; students explore the atoms and elements, concepts in chemical bonding, and how atoms and elements react to one another. This Honors level course also includes greater opportunities for independent research and the demonstration of critical thinking skills.
Units:
Introduction to Chemistry
Chemistry can help explain much of what is happening in the world around you. This branch of science is vast because it deals with the study of matter, which is present just about everywhere. In this introductory unit, you will study the different areas of chemistry, identify how chemistry affects various industries, review the steps of the scientific method, and examine the measurement system that all scientists use. You will also learn how to measure, convert, and calculate accurately to solve chemistry problems. You will repeatedly apply these math concepts throughout the course.
An Overview of Matter and Change
Chemistry is the study of matter and the changes it undergoes. In this unit you will begin to examine the basic types of matter and the factors that may alter it. You will learn how to classify matter, review the chemical naming system of elements, describe the physical and chemical properties of different substances, and analyze chemical and physical changes of matter. You will further explore some of these concepts later in the course.
Atoms and Elements
In order to understand the composition of matter, you need to understand the structure of an atom, the smallest particle of an element that has all the characteristics of that element. In this unit you will study the composition of atoms and elements. You will examine various historic models of the atom, learn how to write an electron configuration for an atom, compare atoms of different elements, and learn how an atom becomes an ion. In addition, you will review how elements are organized in the periodic table and analyze trends in the table.
Chemical Bonding
Atoms and molecules constantly combine to form new substances. In this unit you will learn how different types of chemical bonding occur. You will examine how atoms become charged ions; compare ionic, metallic, and covalent bonds; model how atoms combine; describe the properties of different types of compounds; and evaluate the strength of bonds. It is important that you to understand how chemical bonding occurs before you study chemical reactions.
Chemical Formulas and Reactions
In order to understand many core chemistry concepts, you must be able represent and analyze chemical reactions. In this unit you will practice doing so as you apply rules for naming and writing chemical formulas, balance equations, compare and interpret empirical and molecular formulas, and predict the products of different types of reactions. In addition, you will learn how to convert one quantity of a substance, such as mass or volume, to another, such as moles or number of particles, and calculate percent composition of a compound.
Stoichiometry
In order to thoroughly understand chemical equations, you need to be able to mathematically interpret them. In this unit you will apply math concepts in order to analyze chemical equations in terms of moles, particles, mass, and volume. You will also learn how to calculate the maximum amount of product that reaction can produce.
Final Review and Exam
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to prepare for and take the final exam. The final exam may include any material that has been presented throughout the semester. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes and answers to questions in your Science journal before you begin to review.
CD/DVD
Online Text/eBook
Textbook/Novel
- Prentice Hall Chemistry (opt)
Honors Chemistry B
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of Honors Chemistry A
Description:
Visual learning, hands-on exercises, and independent research help reinforce the concepts covered in Honors Chemistry B, which include the properties of matter, solutions, and energy. The more rigorous curriculum includes the exploration of concepts and principles in the fields of electrochemistry, organic chemistry, and nuclear chemistry.
Units:
Solids, Liquids, and Gases
In this unit you will analyze the states of matter in terms of particles and use the kinetic theory of matter to describe the behavior of matter in each state. You will predict how temperature, volume, and the number of particles affect gas pressure, and how to quantify these effects using Boyle’s, Charles’s, and the combined gas laws. You will have the opportunity to perform a virtual lab to investigate the relationship between the pressure and volume of a gas. Finally, you will learn how solutions form and compare different types of solutions.
Solutions, Acids, and Bases
In this unit you will continue to learn about different types of solutions as you examine some special properties of solutions and solve problems involving solubility and concentration. You will explore acids and bases as you compare acid-base theories, calculate acid and base concentrations, and describe what happens during neutralization reactions. You will have the opportunity to perform a virtual and a hands-on titration lab at the end of the unit.
Heat, Energy, and Reactions
In this unit you will continue to explore chemical reactions in terms of heat and energy as you learn how scientists measure the heat of a reaction and solve problems involving heat transfers in chemical reactions. You will identify factors that affect the rate of a reaction and design an experiment to test these factors. Finally, you will learn how amounts of reactants and products change in a chemical system at equilibrium and identify stresses that can change the equilibrium of a chemical reaction.
Electrochemistry
In this unit you will study electrochemistry, the branch of chemistry that deals with the relationship between electricity and chemical changes. You will examine how reactants and products gain and lose electrons, learn how to determine the oxidation number of an atom, and compare different types of electrochemical cells, which convert electrical energy into chemical energy or vice versa. In addition, you will have the opportunity to perform a virtual redox titration.
Organic Chemistry
Many everyday items, such as clothes, food, and containers, are carbon-based, or organic compounds. Throughout this unit you will classify organic compounds, model their structures, examine how they form, and identify the organic compounds that certain common products contain. In addition, you will learn about the roles that carbon plays in biochemical processes.
Nuclear Chemistry
Although nuclear materials are fairly common, most people do not know exactly what they are or what makes them both beneficial and dangerous. In this unit, you will explore different types and uses of radioactivity and analyze the various changes that nuclear particles may undergo. Also, you will learn how nuclear waste is stored and how scientists detect radiation.
Final Review and Exam
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to prepare for and take the final exam. The final exam may include any material that has been presented throughout the semester. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes and answers to questions in your Science journal before you begin to review.
CD/DVD
Online Text/eBook
Textbook/Novel
- Prentice Hall Chemistry (opt)
Honors Earth Science A
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Description:
This is the first of two courses that comprise Honors Earth Science. This course is designed to prepare the student to confidently enter and complete advanced college-level Earth science courses. The Prentice Hall text, Earth Science, provides the basis for the course content.This course consists of rigorous curriculum that provides students the opportunity to deeply explore Earth science concepts and engage in independent research. The student will conduct hands-on explorations and virtual simulations, which will enhance traditional lesson formats. During this course, the student will identify the branches of Earth science, locate geographic features on topographic maps, conduct hands-on experiments with minerals and rocks, compare and contrast weathering and erosion, explore plate tectonics with relation to earthquakes and volcanoes, and investigate the formation of mountains.
Units:
Introduction to Earth Science
Earth Science is a vast branch of science that covers many subject areas, including geology, oceanography, meteorology, and astronomy. Earth scientists study physical and chemical aspects of Earth and its place in the solar system, using various mapping techniques and advanced global positioning technology. Because Earth contains so many interactive parts, scientists often study Earth as a system. The Earth system is powered by energy from the sun and by geologic forces inside Earth.
In this introductory unit, you will learn about Earth’s composition and internal structure. You will read about different techniques that scientists use to study Earth and other planets in the solar system and you will learn how the theory of plate tectonics influences the field of Earth science. You will explore Earth’s four major spheres—the geosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere—and you will determine how human activity impacts the Earth system.
Minerals
Did you know that close to 4,000 different minerals have been identified on Earth? When scientists discover a new mineral, they study its physical characteristics and try to determine how it may have formed. Once a mineral has been named, it can be grouped with other minerals that share similar properties.
In this unit, you will examine some of the more common mineral groups on Earth, including silicates, carbonates, oxides, sulfates, sulfides, halides, and native elements. You will learn about mineral properties and the tests that scientists conduct to classify minerals. You will also study elements, atoms, and subatomic particles, and you will learn how atoms of different elements combine to form compounds.
Rocks
When different minerals mix together, they form rocks. There are three main types of rocks on Earth—igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic—each of which forms in a unique way. Rocks can change from one type to another because of the rock cycle, which you will learn about, and the constant changes within Earth’s interior.
In this unit, you will study each rock type in great detail. You will learn how each one forms and where scientists usually find that type of rock on Earth. You will explore the rock cycle and the natural processes that influence rock transformations. At the end of the unit, you will conduct an investigation using various samples from your rock kit.
Earth's Resources
Earth contains valuable resources—such as air and water—that are used every day by plants, animals, and humans. These resources are categorized into two main groups: renewable resources and nonrenewable resources. Since there are limited amounts of nonrenewable resources on Earth, scientists have determined alternative ways to extract energy from resources such as wind, water, and the sun.
In this unit, you will explore different forms of renewable and nonrenewable resources. You will read about fossil fuels and the ways they are used to produce energy for various human activities. You will identify alternative energy resources and their advantages and disadvantages, and you will explore how Earth’s natural resources can be protected from harmful pollutants and overuse.
Sculpturing Earth's Surface
Geologically, Earth is constantly changing. Earth’s surface is influenced by internal forces that create mountains and external forces that weather and erode Earth’s crust. Some geologic changes occur over long periods of time, while others happen quickly, drastically changing landscapes in minutes.
In this unit, you will study processes that sculpt Earth’s surface, including weathering, erosion, deposition, and even human activities such as logging and construction. You will learn how and why mass movements occur, and you will explore the various ways water can shape landscapes over time.
Glaciers, Deserts, and Wind
Glaciers cover and shape approximately 10 percent of the total land area on Earth. As a glacier moves—or flows—it erodes rock from valley floors and walls. In sharp contrast, deserts are areas that lack moisture and have very little organic material. Desert ecosystems are easily shaped by running water and wind.
In this unit, you will learn about glaciers and deserts. You will study different types of glaciers and how they move, and you will read how sand- and pebble-covered deserts are affected by the processes of weathering and erosion. At the end of the unit, you will take a closer look at exactly how wind erodes desert landscapes.
Earthquakes and Earth's Interior
Caused by the rapid release of energy stored inside Earth, earthquakes can greatly damage Earth’s surface, particularly if they occur near a large city. Earthquakes can create various hazards, including seismic shaking, landslides, and even tsunamis.
In this unit, you will explore earthquakes and why they occur. By completing the lab Locating an Earthquake you will learn how scientists are able to determine an earthquake’s epicenter and its focus. In order to understand how scientists measure earthquakes, you will study two types of seismic waves: body waves and surface waves.
Plate Tectonics and Other Igneous Activity
The hypothesis of continental drift, followed by the theory of plate tectonics, significantly changed scientists’ understanding of Earth’s geologic forces. As scientists began to accept new ideas about movement within Earth’s layers, they were able to explain many other geologic forces, such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and even seafloor spreading.
In this unit, you will explore the theory of plate tectonics and how it impacted the field of geology. You will learn what causes tectonic plate motion and you will examine different types of plate boundaries. During the unit, you will read how volcanic eruptions are directly related to activity within Earth’s interior. You will learn about different types of volcanism and you will study the three main types of volcanoes: shield, cinder cone, and composite cone.
Mountain Building
Mountains are classified into four main types: volcanic, folded, fault-block, and dome. These types of mountains can be found in various places on Earth’s surface. The mountain-building process occurs mostly at convergent plate boundaries, where colliding plates result in massive forces that create mountains.
In this unit, you will explore how and where mountains are built on Earth’s surface. You will identify the four main types of mountains and at which convergent plate boundary they usually occur. During the unit, you will complete an investigation of anticlines and synclines, which will help you better understand the different types of folded mountains.
Final Review and Exam
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to prepare for and take the final exam. The final exam may include any material that has been presented throughout the semester. Since this is a comprehensive exam, it may be helpful to organize your notes and answers to questions in your science journal before you begin to review.
CD/DVD
- Prentice Hall Virtual Earth Science
Kit
- Science Kit- Earth Science
- Goggles, safety
- Thermometers (2)
Online Text/eBook
- Prentice Hall Earth Science
Textbook/Novel
- Prentice Hall Earth Science (opt)
Honors Earth Science B
Grades: 9, 12, 10, 11
Credits: 0.50
Description:
This is the second of two courses that comprise Honors Earth Science. This course is designed to prepare the student to confidently enter and complete advanced college-level Earth science courses. The Prentice Hall text, Earth Science, provides the basis for the course content.This course consists of rigorous curriculum that provides students the opportunity to deeply explore Earth science concepts and engage in independent research. The student will conduct hands-on explorations and virtual simulations, which will enhance traditional lesson formats. During this course, the student will explore Earth’s history by studying fossils and rock layers; investigate oceanic productivity and features on the sea floor; learn about atmospheric processes, including the water cycle; infer how severe storms form; study the Earth-moon-sun relationship; and explore other celestial bodies, such as stars.
Units:
Geologic Time and Earth's History
In this introductory unit, you will explore Earth's early history by studying fossils, the rock record, and the geologic time scale. You will learn how scientists are able to date rock layers using radiometric dating, and how they are able to develop theories of past environments using fossils. In addition, you will learn how the geologic time scale is organized and how it was originally developed by scientists in the 1800s.
During this unit, you will complete a lab on fossils, which will enable you to understand how fossils can be used to define rock sequences. At the end of the unit, you will study Precambrian Time and the Paleozoic, Mesozoic, and Cenozoic Eras. You will learn how Earth changed biologically and geologically during these important time periods in history.
Oceanography
In this unit, your reading assignments and activity components will immerse you in the field of oceanography. From physical features of the ocean floor to ocean productivity and the diversity of marine life, you will find that you cover most aspects of the world's oceans throughout this unit.
During this unit, you will study the density of seawater. You will be asked to complete a Virtual Lab in which you will experiment with different solids and liquids, to better understand density. At the end of the unit, you will learn about waves, tides, and how ocean waters circulate throughout the world. Yo