Last Updated March 2015

2015-2016 GRADE 9-12 COURSE SELECTIONS LISTING Dear AMSA Student: You are about to begin the important process of selecting your classes for the upcoming school year. You are encouraged to think carefully about the choices you make in selecting your courses, as the classes you select may affect your future opportunities, as well as your overall satisfaction with school. This course listing contains most of the information you need to know about AMSA’s course offerings and educational opportunities. Some courses may not be offered due to limited student registration, resources available and/or teacher availability. Prerequisites are listed to ensure students have the appropriate level of skills when they enter the class. Classes with prerequisites are generally part of a sequence of courses. It is important to review the prerequisites because students who do not have the necessary qualifications will not be permitted to enroll in the class. As you prepare for registration and your selection of classes, please keep the following in mind: 1. Graduation Requirements

The high school graduation requirements ensure that each student will attain a certain level of competency, meet the state requirements and complete a well-rounded high school program. Twenty-eight (28) credits are required for graduation and 12th graders must have met all the graduation requirements in order to participate in the graduation ceremony. A minimum of 7 credits and a maximum of 8 credits must be earned each school year.

• Courses that meet every day are worth 1 credit. • Courses that meet every other day are worth .5 credits • A full year course that meets 7.5 times per week is worth 1.5 credits

Subject requirements in years SUBJECT # of YEARS

REQUIRED SUBJECT # of YEARS

REQUIRED Math 4

Plus the completion of Geometry

Computer Science

3 (.5 credit each yr)

English 4 World Language 2

Science 3 Physical Education Health &Wellness

4 (.5 credit each yr)

History 3 Fine Arts 2

(.5 credit each yr)

* Three credit years of math are completed in grades 9 & 10, because Geometry is taught simultaneously with algebra. ** Grade 12 English requirements will be satisfied by taking a minimum of one full credit of English Language Arts and World Literature, with course selections including Survey of Literature, Honors ELA Requirements or AP English Language and Composition. All grade 12 students must complete a senior project in their English class. 2. Grading Scale, GPA and Course Levels Advanced Math and Science Academy Grading Scale

Alpha Numeric AP* H CP A+ 96.5 &

above 5.30 4.80 4.30

A 92.5 – 96.0 5.00 4.50 4.00 A- 89.5 – 92.0 4.70 4.20 3.70 B+ 86.5 – 89.0 4.30 3.80 3.30 B 82.5 – 86.0 4.00 3.50 3.00 B- 79.5 – 82.0 3.70 3.20 2.70 C+ 76.5 – 79.0 3.30 2.80 2.30 C 72.5 – 76.0 3.00 2.50 2.00 C- 69.5 – 72.0 2.70 2.20 1.70 D+ 66.5 – 69.0 2.30 1.80 1.30 D 62.5 – 66.0 2.00 1.50 1.00 D- 59.5 – 62.0 1.70 1.20 0.70 F Below 59.5 0.00 0.00 0.00

Unweighted GPA is frequently requested on applications for internships, scholarships, or other extracurricular programs. A student’s unweighted GPA is cumulative starting in grade 9 and is computed at the end of the freshman year. It is updated yearly thereafter using all grades received in its calculation using no extra weight for classes of varying levels of difficulty. The National Honor Society at AMSA uses the unweighted GPA for eligibility which is calculated including midyear grades in grade 10 and 11.

Unweighted Grade Point Average (GPA)

The calculation of the weighted GPA takes into account the level of the courses a student has taken, the number of credits each course is worth and the GPA Factor of either .5 for honors or advanced and 1.0 for AP. Only final grades are used to determine the weighted GPA and it is calculated yearly beginning at the end of 9th grade. All courses are used to calculate weighted GPA.

Weighted Grade Point Average (GPA)

Course Levels at AMSA Un-leveled Unleveled courses are courses have no distinction between College Prep or Honors. These include art, computer science, physical education, health and wellness, and all electives. College Preparatory (CP) College Prep is a means by which college bound high school students may better meet the more stringent scholastic requirements for entry into colleges and universities. CP courses are designed to prepare students for success in college-level course work. Honors (H) and Advanced (Adv) These honors level classes cover more complex material, permit further in-depth study than a CP course and may require independent learning and greater effort. Honors and advanced level courses are recommended for students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement through a combination of motivation and ability. Students are expected to be able to organize their time and assignments and to seek help when necessary on their own initiative. Advanced Placement (AP) Advanced Placement (AP) is a program created by the College Board offering college-level curriculum and examinations to high school students. AMSA’s AP course curriculum is audited by Collegeboard and must be approved in order for students to receive college credit. AP classes are recommended for students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement through a combination of motivation and ability, along with ability to learn independently and at a college-level pace. Teacher recommendation is required for all College Prep, Honors, Advanced or AP courses. This process ensures that students are placed in the most appropriate course level to promote academic success. 3. Future Plans Very few high school students know exactly what they intend to do after graduation. In fact, interests and plans often change with experience and education. It is important, therefore, to take courses that lay a foundation for post high school training. Whether your future includes a 4 or 2 year college, career training, the military or employment options, you are encouraged to keep your options open. 4. Aptitudes and Abilities Students should be realistic about their strengths and abilities. Students are encouraged to enroll in classes that are challenging, rewarding, and motivating. Best wishes in making your course selection. If you have questions, please contact your subject teacher, guidance counselor, or homeroom teacher.

COMPUTER SCIENCE COURSES Three years of Computer Science is required for graduation at AMSA. Teacher recommendation is required for Advanced Placement courses. Intro to Java/Networking Grades 9-12 Prerequisite: None Credit: .5

Students learn how to develop algorithms and code in Java. This is an introductory class that focuses on the basics of writing methods, learning the Java syntax, writing for loops and using if/else statements. After students have built a solid foundation of procedural techniques, an introduction to Object Oriented Design will be introduced. The class is problem-centered. Rather than just describing programming constructs, we talk in detail about how to apply each construct and where a novice is likely to go wrong when learning how to use each new construct.

Web Design Grades 9-12 Prerequisite: None Credit: .5 This course builds upon the HTML & CSS material covered in CS8. Students will design, create, and maintain web pages and websites. Students learn how to critically evaluate website quality, learn how to create and maintain quality web pages and learn about web design standards and why they're important. Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to write standards compliant HTML and CSS. Understand and apply effective web design principles and enhance new or existing web pages using text formatting, color, graphics, images, and multimedia. Intro to CAD Grades 10-12 Prerequisite: None Credit: .5 Students are introduced to “Drawing Building Blocks” using line types and learning Orthographic Projection. Advanced topics include “Dimensioning”, CAD Assemblies and Motion Simulation, and studying the Engineering Design process. Advanced Web Design Grades 11-12 Prerequisite: Web Design Credit: .5 This course builds upon the HTML & CSS material covered in Web Design, introducing advanced techniques to enhance web pages with the use of page layout techniques, text formatting, graphics, images, and producing a functional, multi-page website, with special attention to navigability and the use of typographical and design elements to effectively communicate with the user.

Advanced CADD Grades 11-12 Prerequisite: Introduction to CAD Credit: .5 Through the Ten80 Student Racing Challenge initiative, students prepare for a career as engineers, scientists, business professionals utilizing CAD as an engineering tool. The classroom is a “professional” motorsport team with project tasks ranging from motion simulation assembly design, material specifications, aerodynamic design, and alternative energy. Students will compete using 1:10 scale electric radio controlled cars that they maintain and improve through mechanical changes. Students work toward completing certifications that lead to regional and national awards. AP Computer Science Grades 10-12 Prerequisite: Intro to Java Credit: 1 AP CS is a college level course in Computer Science and is guided by the AP College Board’s AP Computer Science course description. Advanced concepts using the Java programming language will be covered. Students will study object-oriented programming methodology, problem solving, algorithm development, data structures, iteration, arrays, and classes. Robotics Grades 11-12 Prerequisite: Recommended Introduction to CAD Credit: .5 The Robotics course is an integrated STEM experience focusing on both programming, using the Robot C programming language and mechanical engineering. Students will be exposed to the VEX Robotics Curriculum and Model Rocketry. Students will explore the evolution of flight, navigation and control, flight fundamentals, aerospace materials, propulsion, space travel, and orbital mechanics. Students analyze robotics and use in space. Students analyze, design, and build robotic Mars rovers. Students will also analyze stresses and mechanical properties of materials using Solidworks CAD simulations. Oracle Grades 11-12 Prerequisite: Intro to Java Credit: 1 Students are introduced to the database design process and learn how to identify database entities and relationships, create entity relationship diagrams using ERD conventions, convert the design into a physical model, create relational tables, and insert data. During the second part of the course students focus on programming with Structured Query Language (SQL) and learn all aspects of querying and database administration. At the end of the course, students have the option to take the Oracle SQL Developer certification exam. Game Design Grades 11-12 Prerequisite: Intro to Java Credit: 1

Game programming is one of the most challenging aspects of Computer Science. It attempts to combine concepts in computer graphics, human computer interaction, networking, artificial intelligence, computer aided instruction, and databases. This course is an introduction to the theory and practice of video game design and programming. Topics include the history of game design and animation, game theory, game genres, game assets, and the Unity 3D game engine. Students are required to work in a team to develop a game in Unity, demonstrating design principles studied in this course.

Engineering Grade 12 Prerequisite: Intro to CAD Credit: 1 Students are introduced to a variety of engineering disciplines through project-based learning. Students will implement the engineering design process, model software, and build prototypes. This is an interdisciplinary course utilizing physics, chemistry, and math concepts. Students will complete projects in architecture and civil engineering. The study of electrical and mechanical engineering will focus on building an AM/FM radio and audio amplifiers. The unit on aerospace engineering and robotics will focus on model rocketry and on remote control airplanes. Intro to Cyber Security and Cryptography Grade 11-12 Prerequisite: AP Computer Science Credit: 1 This course is meant to be a first course network security and Cryptography. Students are provided an introduction to the basic principles and techniques of building secure information systems focusing on theory and practice of computer security, focusing in particular on the security aspects of the web and Internet. It surveys cryptographic tools used to provide security, such as shared key encryption (DES, 3DES, RC-4/5/6, etc.); public key encryption, key exchange, and digital signature (Diffie-Hellmann, RSA, DSS, etc.). System security issues, such as viruses, intrusion, and firewalls, will also be covered. Broader social, legal and political aspects of security will also be touched upon, including issues relating to censorship, surveillance and information control.

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ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND WORLD LITERATURE COURSES The AMSA English Language and World Literature program encompasses six-years of continuous and historically aligned courses beginning in grade 6. The English Language Arts component focuses on written assignments that correlate with the literature under study. This assists students with the rigorous levels of literary analysis required at AMSA’s college prep, honors and AP levels while promoting better assimilation of the themes, genres and cultures of our literary content. An emphasis is placed on grammar and vocabulary skills, the basic tools needed for writers to succeed at their craft. Each grade level’s curriculum will include a structured vocabulary program that will reinforce composition, reading comprehension and test-taking skills. Our grammar program includes scaffolded skills, with each grade building upon the next. All grade 12 students must complete a senior project which will be assigned in their English course. Teacher recommendation is required for all College Prep, Honors and Advanced Placement courses. ELA/Lit 9 (College Prep or Honors) Grade 9 Prerequisite: None Credit: 1 Students closely examine texts beginning in the Renaissance and Reformation and spanning towards modern day and across Europe, Africa, and Asia to explore the essential question “How can appearances be deceiving?” Students investigate the literary representation of common themes, such as deception, roles in society, moral and cultural duplicity, truth, “good” and “evil”, individuality, identity, perspective, and imagination vs. reality. Classes will develop critical reading and analytical writing skills that will allow students to create argumentative theses exploring these themes that are supported by specific, relevant evidence from texts. Additionally, students refine mastery of conventions of English grammar and expectations regarding formatting, presentation, and citation of writing. ELA/Lit 10 (College Prep or Honors) Grade 10 Prerequisite: Completion of ELA/Lit 9 Credit: 1 Students closely examine literature beginning in British Romanticism spanning through modern day to explore the essential question of “What does it mean to be human in a scientific and technological age?” Students will investigate the intricacies of humanity such as nature vs. nurture, morality, truth, individuality, relationships, and the strength/weakness of the human spirit. Classes will foster critical reading and analytical writing skills that allows students to develop original theses to answer the year’s essential question in a culminating capstone project. Students will defend their arguments using evidence-based support and textual scrutiny to develop and master these higher-level skills.

ELA/Lit 11 (College Prep or Honors) Grade 11 Prerequisite: Completion of ELA/Lit 10 Credit: 1 Students examine American literature from the founding of the continent to the present through the lens of the American Dream. Based on their study of literature as well as their own experience, focused discussions, reflective writing, etc., students define what the “American Dream” actually is and then build a case for its importance or lack thereof in American culture today. Particular attention will be paid to improving student’s writing abilities through a close study of what exactly makes effective writing. Supporting assertions with textual evidence, reasoned ideas, and clear and concise prose is a goal throughout the course. Classes will cultivate an environment of natural curiosity where students will sharpen their ability to think critically and analytically. Frequent, ongoing assessments guide the learning and lead to a culminating research essay related to the essential question. AP Literature (AP) Grades 11-12 Prerequisite: Completion of ELA/Lit 10 Credit: 1 This Advanced Placement Literature and Writing course is designed to teach beginning college writing through the fundamentals of rhetorical theory, and follows the curricular requirements of the College Board. The AP English Literature and Composition course will engage students in the careful reading and critical analysis of imaginative literature from the sixteenth through the twenty-first centuries. Through the close reading of selected texts, students deepen their understanding of the ways writers use language to provide both meaning and pleasure for their readers. As they read, students consider a work’s structure, style, and themes as well as such elements as the use of figurative language, imagery, symbolism, and tone. AP Language & Composition (AP) Grade 11-12 Prerequisite: Completion of ELA/Lit 10 Credit: 1 This college level course prepares students to take the AP Language and Composition exam by considering non-fiction texts and what makes them effective. Students learn to analyze rhetorical situations, content, context, and diction in order to understand how writers achieve their purposes. The course is skills based and the focus is on developing students’ ability to read, write and critically analyze high quality, literary non-fiction. Though the primary focus is on writing the rhetorical analysis, argument, and research essays for the exam, students also develop their analytical skills by composing pieces in various styles and genres in order to understand the craft of writing from the writer’s as well as the critic’s point of view.

Grade 12 Literature and College Writing

Students must take one of the following in order to fulfill their senior ELA requirements: Gothic Fiction, Shakespeare, Contemporary World Voices, AP Literature, or AP Language and Composition. Gothic Fiction (College Prep or Honors) Grade 12 Prerequisite: Completion of ELA/Lit 11 Credit: 1 Gothic literature examines the deepest fears and anxieties of a culture. AMSA's American Gothic Literature course will challenge students to answer the essential question: "How does the American Gothic express the fears and forbidden desires of Americans?" through close reading, analysis, and discussion of a variety of written and visual texts. Throughout the year, students will work to develop their own essential questions and use primary and secondary academic sources as evidence for analysis and their senior research essay.

Shakespeare (College Prep or Honors) Grade 12 Prerequisite: Completion of ELA/Lit 11 Credit: 1 In this course, students will study the plays and a selection of sonnets and poetry of Shakespeare, isolating themes and motivations, and drawing parallels to their own lives and the modern world. Students dissect the language of the Bard as they explore how we interact with one another and what drives our desires, dreams, betrayals, loyalties, loves, and hates through the works. At the conclusion of the course, students will write an academic research paper on a concept in the works of their choosing. Contemporary World Voices (College Prep or Honors) Grade 12 Prerequisite: Completion of ELA/Lit 11 Credit: 1 Students will read and respond to contemporary and culturally relevant material that is representative of a variety of viewpoints and experiences, answering the question “What does it mean to be a modern global citizen?” Contemporary World Voices will expose students to a wide range of world literature written during the past fifty years emphasizing the benefits of understanding unfamiliar perspectives. Students will explore a variety of voices and perspectives to examine the intersection of culture and identity as well as the notion of finding similarities through difference. Students will examine the ways in which stories – both fiction and nonfiction, visual and written – create voice, power, and identity. Students will continue to develop their writing skills in preparation for the senior research paper, using a variety of prompts designed to challenge assumptions, encourage critical thinking, and promote effective, thoughtful, and creative writing.

English Electives:

Creative Writing Grades 9-12 Prerequisite: None Credit: .5 Creative Writing allows students to experiment with various modes of writing in order to explore the essential questions of “How can writing help us to better understand the world?” and “How can we use knowledge of genre, character, structure, setting, plot, conflict, etc. to connect with readers?” Students will develop writing skills through varying modes of narrative writing, including short story, personal narrative, and poetry. Pieces are constructed entirely by students and will focus on making meaningful connections with the audience. Students will also examine a variety of texts—short stories, plays, and poetry ranging from many different time periods—to help make the core connection between reading and writing. By the end of the year, students will have effectively explored creativity through writing, gaining confidence as a writer beyond the expository. Media Analysis Grades 9-12 Prerequisite: None Credit: .5 Today perhaps more than ever before, the need to understand and effectively evaluate media is a skill-set that will be vital in navigating the international and business climate of the 21st century. In this course, students will develop as savvy consumers and producers of media as well as intelligent critics and communicators. They will apply the principles of literary, psychological and cultural analysis to various mass media including newspapers, magazines, TV, movies, and, of course, the internet. They will examine common archetypes and technical techniques employed by the producers of mass media, learn the language and lexicon of media production and analysis, and recognize the how’s and why’s of the powerful subconscious sway media holds over us as workers, consumers, and citizens.

Journalism Grades 9-12 Prerequisite: None Credit: .5 A “free press” is not just an abstraction guaranteed in the Constitution—it is one of the most important elements of a democratic society. Indeed, American media outlets have often been dubbed the “fourth estate,” as vital to the health of our republic (by acting as a vigilant guard against the abuses of power by reporting truths, especially unpleasant ones, to the citizenry) as the three estates of government. In this course, students will learn, in a hands-on, interactive fashion, what journalism is for, why its preservation and growth is so essential, and how it works in its various forms. Students learn how news is gathered, reported, and delivered and how that process has changed over the decades and continues to change. Students will study journalism’s evolution from colonial broadsides to the internet and learn how to write, edit, and present the news—highlighted by production of AMSA’s student newspaper, The Voice. It is possible to take journalism if you have taken it in the past. Literature to Film Grades 9-12 Prerequisite: None Credit: 1 Students will explore how one story is portrayed through two different mediums, exploring the methods authors employ to bring characters to life and why it works “on the page.” Students will also explore how that same story changes (indeed, needed to change) when it was adapted for the silver screen by exploring how a director takes the printed word and turns it into a collection of images that, somehow, conveys all that the author intended, including thought and other abstractions. Students will analyze narrative techniques in novel and cinema forms to understand the similarities and differences, giving them a complete understanding of written form (including plotting, characterization, and thematic representation) and of visual form (including acting, editing, cinematography, and art design). At course’s end, students will understand how a film can be greater than its source, and how a great novel may never be a great film (and just why a great book that becomes a great film is a rare thing indeed). Philosophy Grades 10-12 Prerequisite: None Credit: .5 In a comprehensive overview of philosophy, students will delve into the philosophical depths of their own and others’ perspectives as they grapple with everyday issues as well as the great questions that have perplexed humanity for ages. The course is discussion based, but students also develop creative, critical, and argumentation skills as they analyze film, literature, and art in essay and other projects. Students are asked to carefully examine and reflect critically on their own and others’ ideas using various modes of expression. Yearbook Grades 10-12 Prerequisite: None Credit: .5 This collaborate teacher/student-directed course gives students valuable experience in print communications. Students learn the skills needed to produce a publication including, but not limited to photography, interviewing, writing, editing, and design. Members also learn practical skills in time management, marketing, teamwork, and note taking. The ability to complete tasks such as photo assignments, layouts, and write-ups before the deadline with minimum supervision is stressed. Deadlines often require students to work after school and on weekends. Students accomplish the impressive feat of creating and publishing all aspects of the AMSA yearbook! It is possible to take Yearbook if you have taken it in the past.

FINE ARTS COURSES

Students in grades 9-12 at AMSA are required to take two, .5 credit Fine Arts courses for graduation. Students may choose from the following courses. All art electives will be offered based upon student popularity and teacher availability. Teacher recommendation is required for Advanced Placement courses.

Art of the “Isms” Grades 9-12 Prerequisite: None Credit: .5 Art of the ISMS is an elective course using Drawing, Painting, Collage and Mixed Media to introduce students to the styles of various forms of modern art such as Abstract Expressionism, Cubism, Fauvism, Impressionism, etc. Students will seek to answer the essential question “What defines an artistic movement as an ISM?” while learning about four types of ISMS and creating their own artworks inspired by artist styles. Materials will include drawing pencils, pastels, color pencils, watercolor, acrylic paints, found/recycled objects and more. Techniques vary from traditional pencil crosshatching and stippling to more crafts-oriented sponging and stamping with paint. Non-Traditional Mixed Media (combining art materials) projects encourage artistic expression and “thinking outside of the box” to create and establish unique student artworks. In other words, each student will eventually create an “ISM” of their own. Drawing and Painting Grades 9-12 Prerequisite: None Credit: .5 Students will be introduced to and work with the basics of Landscape, Still Life, Figure, and Portraiture Drawing and Painting. Students will work in each of these four categories in a variety of medium ranging from pencil, charcoal, water color, acrylic paint, and pastels to name a few. Students will be introduced to the concepts through examples of artwork by famous artists. The examples will serve to inspire and to provide tips and tricks. Students will work on exercises that reinforce concepts and complete a culminating piece of artwork for each of the five disciplines. Other art skills that will be touched upon are Presentation skills, Design skills, Critique skills and the Creation of Art Portfolios.

Chorus Grades 9-12 Prerequisite: None Credit: .5 Chorus is a performance based elective focused on developing students’ singing abilities. The course is also designed to help students sing in harmony as part of a high school vocal ensemble. Throughout the year, vocal techniques are developed, including breath control, diction, posture, and intonation. Emphasis is also placed on improving musical literacy and sight singing. Students will study and perform music from a wide range of musical styles, encompassing all periods of music history and many cultures from around the globe. Students will develop skills singing in unison, rounds, and in mixed-voice arrangements, including 2, 3, and 4 part harmony. Performances are an integral component of this course and students are required to participate as part of their commitment to this group and part of their evaluation. It is possible to take chorus if you have taken it in the past.

Printmaking Grades 10-12 Prerequisite: None Credit: .5 The printmaking elective is focused on developing an understanding and appreciation for the art and history of printmaking. This course covers the origin of printmaking, its evolution throughout history, and the cultural influences that altered the various types of media used by artists. Students will learn about many different forms of printmaking from the most primitive form of stamping to the more complex methods of screen-printing. Students build upon what they learned in their previous art courses to create complex and thoughtful prints in a media they are previously unfamiliar with, furthering their understanding of the essential question “What is art?” They are challenged to think about art and critique their classmates work as well as their own. Throughout the course, students make connections with various time periods and styles of prints and relate this material to what they are learning and have learned in other courses. 3 Dimensional Art Grades 10-12 Prerequisite: None Credit: .5 Students will use a variety of different mediums—clay, wire, fabric, paint, plastic, cardboard and glass to create 3-Dimensional forms as they seek to answer the essential question “what is 3 Dimensional art and how can you effectively use it?” Students will study artists such as Alexander Calder and Andy Warhol. The class also focuses on movements in art such as the Kinetic Art Movement.

AP Studio Art Grades 11-12 Prerequisite: 1 year of art Credit: 1 AP Art is all about process, theme, and coming to your own conclusions and interpretations. Students will need to create a total of 24 pieces by May 1st 2015 for portfolio submission to the AP College Board. The portfolio consists of 12 “Breadth” pieces. These pieces will show that students are comfortable with a variety of media, subjects, and themes. The portfolio will also consist of 12 “concentration” pieces that will require students to choose a theme to focus on and research visually. From these 24 pieces, students will also be pulling 5 that showcase the “quality” of their work.

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HISTORY AND SOCIAL SCIENCE COURSES

Students at AMSA are expected to take 3 credits in history from grades 9-12. In grade 9 students are required to take World History from the French Revolution to 2012. In grade 10, students take the first half of American history. In Grade 11, students will take the second half of American history. In grade 11, students are required to take either American History or AP American History. Students may take a history elective in grade 11 as long as they also take either of the American history courses. In grade 12, students may take any history elective (as long as they meet the listed requirements, if any). Teacher recommendation is required for all College Prep, Honors and Advanced Placement courses. World History (College Prep or Honors) Grade 9 Prerequisite: None Credit: 1 Students will study modern world history from the French Revolution to today. Students will answer the essential question “What motivates people, societies, and nations to act?” through the study of 7 major units: the French Revolution, the Industrial Revolution, Imperialism, World War I, the Russian Revolution, World War II, and the Cold War. As in previous grades, students will be introduced to a central thread for each unit (such as a person or an idea) that will help enable the student to connect all of the smaller pieces of information to the larger story being told. Students will also develop and enhance their note taking skills, the development of arguments with evidence the writing of essays with a clear thesis (and evidence), the analysis of primary source documents, and chronological reasoning. Students will expand on these skills by learning how to synthesize and accurately and effectively use large amounts of information. Students will also begin to develop the ability to compare and contextualize (by comparing historical processes across time, explaining multiple perspectives on historical events, and connecting historical events with particular historical eras). US History 1 (College Prep or Honors) Grade 10 Prerequisite: Completion of World History Credit: 1 The first half of American history (1491-1877) examines the essential question “Why do people and societies act – and, in this case, what motivated the nation of “America” to act by declaring Independence from England?” Major units will focus on the life, politics, and religion of American Indians; European exploration of the Americas and the founding and growth of the first American

colonies; the development of American political institutions and American slavery; the origins and consequences of the American Revolution; a strong focus on civic literacy through an extended examination of the structure and main concepts of American government as established by the Constitution; antebellum American politics and society; and the causes and consequences of the American Civil War and the failures and accomplishments of Reconstruction. Students will develop and enhance their note taking skills, the development of arguments with evidence, the writing of essays with a clear thesis (and evidence), the analysis of primary source documents, chronological reasoning, and the ability to compare and contextualize. US History 2 (College Prep or Honors) Grade 11 Prerequisite: Completion of US History 1 Credit: 1 The second half of American history (1877 – today) will also, as in grade 10, focus on the essential question “Why do peoples and societies act?” Related questions include: why do nations – in this case, the U.S. – go to war? Why and how do nations change? What role do the “people” have in running and shaping basic political and economic policies? Grade 11 U.S. history will pick up from grade 10 by examining the impact of Reconstruction and the causes and consequences of the Industrial Revolution. Students will also learn about the most important events and people in modern American history, including the Progressive Era and World War I, the Great Depression, the New Deal, World War II, the Cold War, the Vietnam War, the 1960s Civil Rights movement, and American in the world today. As in grade 10, students will continue to develop their note taking skills, the development of arguments with evidence, the writing of essays with a clear thesis (and evidence), the analysis of primary source documents, chronological reasoning, and the ability to compare and contextualize. Students will also be introduced to the skill of historical interpretation – the ability to effectively analyze different historical interpretations of events and to see how and why interpretations change over time. History Electives Current Events Grades: 9-12 Prerequisite: None Credit: .5 This elective will focus on major current events from around the world. This elective will focus on three essential questions. 1. What are the major problems around the world today (and how do we know that they are “major” problems? 2. What are the social, political, economic, environmental causes of current problems? 3. What are the possible solutions to current problems around the world? The class will include analyses of major newspapers and websites from around the world. Examples of events that would have been studied during the course of this past year include the Ebola crisis in Africa; Russian relations with the Ukraine; pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong; the decline in oil prices around the world; the disintegration of Syria and Iraq and the rise of ISIS; and the terrorist attack on Paris, France. Throughout the course, students will develop the following skills: note taking; developing arguments with evidence; writing essays with a clear thesis (and evidence); analysis of primary and secondary source documents; chronological reasoning; and the ability to synthesize, compare, and contextualize. Global Military History Grades: 9-12 Prerequisite: None Credit: .5 This elective will focus on the great military leaders and most important battles of world history from ancient times to the present. The essential questions this elective will focus on is “what are the most important battles of world history, how and why were they fought, and what consequences did they have?” Famous battles to be discussed include Joan of Arc’s siege of Orleans in 1428 and 1429, the

Spanish Armada in 1588, and the Battle of Kursk in 1943. Throughout the course, students will develop the following skills: note taking; developing arguments with evidence; writing essays with a clear thesis (and evidence); analysis of primary and secondary source documents; chronological reasoning; and the ability to synthesize, compare, and contextualize. Global Traveler Grades: 9-12 Prerequisite: None Credit: .5 This elective will introduce students to the history and culture of nations. The essential questions this course will focus on are “how and why is the world so diverse?” and “how and why is the world becoming more global?” Possible nations that will be studied include India, Brazil, Venezuela, Syria, Iraq, China, Korea, Japan, Vietnam, Nigeria, South Africa, Egypt, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Each country study will include a brief introductory history, a sampling of the art and literature of the country, and an in-depth examination of contemporary political or social issues. Throughout the course, students will develop the following skills: note taking; developing arguments with evidence; writing essays with a clear thesis (and evidence); analysis of primary and secondary source documents; chronological reasoning; and the ability to synthesize, compare, and contextualize. African American History Grades: 11-12 Prerequisite: None Credit: .5

This elective will focus on the important events, inspiring moments, turning points, and leaders of African American history, including slavery and abolitionism, the civil rights movement, Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad, Frederick Douglass, and Martin Luther King, Jr. and the Civil Rights movement. The essential questions this elective will focus on is “what has motivated the various Civil Rights movements throughout history?” “Why was there a need for Civil Rights movements?” And “what were the consequences of the Civil Rights movements?” As in grade 10 and 11 history classes, students will continue to develop the following skills: note taking; developing arguments with evidence; writing essays with a clear thesis (and evidence); analysis of primary source documents; chronological reasoning; the ability to synthesize, compare, and contextualize; and the skills of historical interpretation – the ability to effectively analyze different historical interpretations of events and to see how and why interpretations change over time. Criminology Grades 11-12 Prerequisite: None Credit: .5 Criminology is the social understanding behind Crime. Students will be challenged to think critically and academically to make sense of theories behind criminality. Students will explore the essential question “How do criminologists explain why certain individuals or groups of individuals commit crime and how does society define, understand, and respond to crime?” They will explore current research on various crimes like those against the person, organized crime, terrorism, etc. A sociological approach will be used in which social explanations of crime will be investigated. Major skills the course will seek to develop (in addition to building knowledge of the causes of crime, how crime impacts society, and how society responds to crime) include developing analytical skills (analyzing data and theories derived from date), conducting and presenting research, and developing coherent fact-based arguments.

Maritime Studies Grades: 11-12 Prerequisite: None Credit: .5 This elective will introduce students to the history of the seas, basic oceanography, the literature and the arts of the Sea, and navigation. Students will learn nautical vocabulary and will possibly take a Coast Guard approved boating course qualifying them for a boating certificate. Throughout the course, students will develop the following skills: developing arguments with evidence; writing with a clear thesis (and evidence); analysis of sources; the ability to synthesize, compare, and contextualize; and – perhaps – the ability to sail a boat! Psychology Grade 12 Prerequisite: None Credit: .5 Students are introduced to the study of the behavior and mental processes of human beings in an effort to examine the essential question: “What determines human behavior: nature or nurture?” Students are exposed to the psychological facts, principles, and phenomena associated with each of the major subfields within psychology beginning with child development and progressing into adult abnormal psychology. In seeking to understand what determines human behavior the course will focus on human emotional, social, and learning development. Articles, experiments, videos, and case studies will allow students to gain foundational knowledge of the human psyche. AP European History (AP) Grades 10-12 Prerequisite: Completion of World History Credit: 1 The grades 10-12 Advanced Placement course will cover European history from 1350 to 2010. AP students will study – in great depth – all of the great events, themes, and personalities of early modern and modern European history, including the Renaissance, the Reformation, the Enlightenment, and the Age of Revolution. Students will also study the rise and fall of Napoleon, the Industrial Revolution, and 19th century European politics and society. They will study the origins and consequences of European imperialism and conflicts, wars, and political movements of the 20th century, including World War I, World II, the Cold War, communism, and fascism. Students will focus on the essential question “Why do people, societies, and nations act and what are the underlying forces of history?” Student will continue to develop their skills developing arguments with evidence, chronological reasoning, the ability to compare and contextualize, and the skills of historical interpretation. AP US History (AP) Grades 11-12 Prerequisite: Completion of US History 1 Credit: 1 AP American History explores the entirety of American history from 1491 to today. Students will learn about the life, politics, and religion of American Indians. They will study European exploration of the Americas and the founding and growth of the first American colonies, including the development of American political institutions and American slavery. They will also learn about the origins and consequences of the American Revolution and the structure and main concepts of American government as established by the Constitution. Students will study 19th century American politics and society, including an examination of the causes and consequences of the American Civil War, the policies of Reconstruction, the Industrial Revolution, the Gilded Age, and America’s rise as a global power. Finally, students will learn about the most important events and people in modern American history, including the progressive era and World War I, the Great Depression, the New Deal, World War II, the Cold War, the Vietnam War, the 1960s Civil Rights movement, and major economic, social, and political developments since 1970. Students explore the essential question “Why

do people, societies, and nations act and what are the underlying forces of history?” Students will enhance their skills in developing of arguments with evidence, chronological reasoning, the ability to compare and contextualize, and the skills of historical interpretation. AP US Government (AP) Grades 11-12 Prerequisite: Completion of US History 1 Credit: 1 AP U.S. Government course is designed to give students a college level understanding of U.S. government and politics. Students will explore the essential question “How does the American political system work?” The course will cover topics including: the Constitutional underpinnings of U.S. government, political beliefs and behaviors, political parties, interest groups, and mass media, institutions of national government (the Congress, the presidency, the bureaucracy, and the federal courts), public policy, and civil rights and civil liberties. The course will place a strong emphasis on the development of critical reasoning skills, the development of arguments with strong evidence, and the ability to infer, analyze, compare, and contextualize. AP Macroeconomics (AP) Grade 11-12 Prerequisite: None Credit: 1 Students will gain a thorough understanding of the principles of economics that apply to economic systems emphasizing the study of national income and price-level determination, and also develops students’ familiarity with economic performance measures, the financial sector, stabilization policies, economic growth, and international economics. Essential questions that the course focuses on are: How does scarcity affect decision making? What is the purpose of money? Why is international trade important? How has fiscal and monetary policy impacted past and current economic well-being? Among the major skills that students will learn are: to apply the principle of comparative advantage to determine the basis on which mutually advantageous trade can take place between countries; analyze the impact of economic fluctuations on the economy’s output and price level; assess the role of investment in human and physical capital in promoting economic growth; and understand the implications for the foreign exchange market of the trade, current account and financial accounts. AP Psychology (AP) Grade 12 Prerequisite: None Credit: 1 The AP Psychology course is designed to introduce students to the systematic and scientific study of the behavior and mental processes of human beings and other animals. Students are exposed to the psychological facts, principles, and phenomena associated with each of the major subfields within psychology in preparation for the AP Psychology test. They also learn about the ethics and methods psychologists use in their science and practice. **********************************************************************************

MATH DEPARTMENT COURSES The goal of the AMSA High School mathematics program is to give students a deep and thorough understanding of mathematical concepts. We believe that knowledge of math is useful in every career path and that every student should have access to a broad mathematical education. We provide classes on three levels of difficulty: College Prep courses teach the program normally required for college admission, at a slower pace with a focus on practical applications. College Prep satisfies state level requirements for MCAS testing and prepares students for the new SAT I reasoning test. Honors courses are meant for students who show a deeper understanding and aptitude for math. It covers concepts at faster pace, allowing students to take advanced placement calculus or higher-level electives in their last year. Students who do well in honors courses may move up to the advanced course in Grades 11 and 12. Advanced courses are meant for students with exceptional understanding of mathematical concepts and with an interest to pursue mathematics-related studies after high school. It covers concepts at a faster pace and with more depth than honors track, leaving the last two years for Advanced Placement Calculus and higher-level electives. Course sequences are designed to provide opportunities for students to move between pathways (with teachers' approval); additional work may be required. Following the lower school curriculum and to emphasize connectedness of the subject, geometry is being taught simultaneously with algebra in grades 9 and 10. The equivalent of four and a half years of math is required for AMSA graduation. Teacher recommendation is required for all College Prep, Honors and Advanced Placement courses.

Algebra/Calculus Recommended Sequence:

Grade 9 Algebra I Inv. Geometry A

Algebra II Inv. Geometry A or Geometry A (H)

Algebra II Geometry (H)

Algebra II/ Trigonometry Geometry (H)

Grade 10

Algebra II Inv. Geometry B

Algebra III Pre-Calculus Inv. Geometry B or Geometry B (H)

Pre-Calculus Pre-Calculus/ Beginning Calculus

Grade 11

Algebra III Pre-Calculus Intro to Calculus

Calculus

AP Calculus AB/BC

Grade 12

Pre-Calculus or Accounting

Intro to Calculus or Calculus or Accounting or Finite Math

AP Calculus or Statistics or Finite Math

Multivariable/Vector Calculus and/or AP Statistics and/or Linear Algebra/Differential Equations

Geometry is a two-year course taught in grades 9 and 10. It builds on the elements of geometry that students studied in grades 7 and 8, concentrating on proofs and the development of problem-solving techniques. Students in the Honors level of Geometry will complete the requirement in 9th grade. Investigative Geometry A (College Prep) Grade 9 Prerequisite: None Credit: .5 This is the first year of Investigative Geometry course taught over the period of two years. In this course students will study points, lines, planes, parallel lines, congruency of triangles, properties of polygons and properties of circles. Students will practice creating conjectures based on investigations, and then will prove the conjectures, using deductive reasoning and logical arguments. They will solve problems using properties of geometric figures, including problems they see in the real world. Investigative Geometry B (College Prep) Grade 10 Prerequisite: Completion of Investigative Geometry A Credit: .5 This is the second year of Investigative Geometry course taught over the period of two years In this course students will study right triangles, area of polygons and circles, surface area and volume of three dimensional solids, similarity and transformations. Students will practice creating conjectures based on investigations, and then will prove the conjectures, using deductive reasoning and logical arguments. Using properties of geometric figures they will solve various problems, including problems they see in the real world Geometry (Honors) Grade 9 Prerequisite: None Credit: .5 This is one year Geometry course that completes Geometry requirement. Course builds on the foundations of geometry students have learned in previous courses. Students explore plane geometry, built on the axiomatic approach, with an emphasis on proofs and problem solving. During the study of transformations and coordinate geometry students will investigate connections between Geometry and Algebra. Solid geometry has emphasis on calculation, previewing

calculus ideas and developing students' spatial imagination. Students will solve variety of problems, including real world problems. Geometry A (Honors) Grade 9 Prerequisite: None Credit: .5 This is the first part of Geometry Honors course taught over the period of two years. Course builds on the foundations of geometry students have learned in previous courses. Students explore plane geometry, built on the axiomatic approach, with an emphasis on proofs and problem solving. Students will solve variety of problems, including real world problems. Geometry B (Honors) Grade 10 Prerequisite: Completion of Geometry A Credit: .5 This is the second part of Geometry Honors course taught over the period of two years. Course builds on the foundations of geometry students have learned in previous courses. The solid geometry part of the course develops students' spatial imagination. During the study of transformations and coordinate geometry students will investigate connections between Geometry and Algebra. This course has emphasis on calculation and problem solving. Algebra I (College Prep) Grade 9 Prerequisite: None Credit: 1.5 Algebra I develops the real number system and all its properties. Students are introduced to the concepts of relation and function and to the methods of solving equations. The axiomatic structure of mathematics is stressed and the coordinate system is introduced formally in conjunction with systems of equations. Algebra II (College Prep or Honors) Grade 9 Prerequisite: None Credit: 1.5 Algebra II course enlarges upon the concepts and skills studied in previous Algebra courses. The course further develops the idea of a function, extends the use of the coordinate system to include general quadratic relations and their graphs, expand the number system to include complex numbers. Students will further develop their problem solving skills by solving word problems related to the concepts. The honors course emphasizes an analytical approach and gives students a deeper understanding of functions and relations. Students will be presented with a comprehensive study of linear equations, polynomials, logarithmic and exponential functions, and conic sections. Algebra II and Trigonometry (Honors) Grade 9 Prerequisite: None Credit: 1.5 This course provides an in-depth and through introduction to more advanced topics in Algebra, Probability/Statistics and Trigonometry through an abstract approach. Students will develop a deep understanding of concepts and be comfortable with abstract logical thinking. A variety of topics will be covered including higher-degree polynomials, conic sections, complex numbers, matrices and determinants, logarithmic and exponential functions, sequences and series, probability (including combinatorics) and trigonometry (up to the law of sine and cosine).

Pre-Calculus (College Prep or Honors) Grade 10 Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra II Credit: 1.5 This course builds on conceptual understanding and skills covered in previous algebra courses. After a quick review of advanced algebra concepts including Polynomial Functions and Equations, Logarithmic and Exponential Functions and Equations, students will be presented with a comprehensive study of Trigonometry, including Trigonometric Equations and Identities, modeling periodic behavior, solving triangles using Law of Sine and Law of Cos, Trigonometric Addition formulas. Students will develop a deep understanding of trigonometric relations and learn how to apply them to solve various types of real-life problems. Pre-Calculus and Beginning of Calculus (Honors) Grade 10 Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra II/Trig Credit: 1.5 This course continues applying the abstract approach to studying mathematics as students will continue their in-depth study of trigonometry, studying more advanced topics in trigonometry including modeling periodic behavior, solving triangles using Law of Sine and Law of Cos, Trigonometric Addition formulas. Students will be presented with a complete and thorough coverage of topics in Analytical Geometry. Emphasis will be placed on topics that will enhance students’ abstract thinking such as Polar Coordinates, Vectors, parametric equations, and a more advanced coverage of sequences and series. Other topics include Probability and Statistics. The last part of the course will be dedicated to a thorough introduction to elementary concepts in Differential Calculus such as limits, derivatives and local and global minimum/maximum. Algebra III (College Prep) Grades 10-11 Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra II Credit: 1.5 The goal of this course is to prepare students for pre-calculus, building on knowledge gained in previous algebra courses. The course will delve deeper in to the areas of higher degree polynomials, conic sections, trigonometry including law of sine and cosine, and sequences and series. Precalculus: Functions and Trigonometry (College Prep) Grades 11 Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra III Credit: 1.5 Students continue developing their conceptual understanding and skills covered in previous algebra courses. After a quick review of advanced algebra concepts including Polynomial Functions and Equations, Logarithmic and Exponential Functions and Equations, students will be presented with a comprehensive study of Trigonometry, including Trigonometric Equations and Identities, modeling periodic behavior, solving triangles using Law of Sine and Law of Cos, Trigonometric Addition formulas. Students will develop a deep understanding of trigonometric relations and learn how to apply them to solve various types of real-life problems. Some ideas of calculus, such as limits, continuity, and end behavior of functions will be introduced to students, and will prepare students for college level Calculus.

Intro to Calculus (College Prep) Grade 11-12 Prerequisite: Completion of Pre-Calculus Credit: 1.5 Students will have a review of Pre-calculus topics with an emphasis on Trigonometry and will be introduced to the main ideas of Calculus, such as limits, continuity, derivatives, and integrals, as well as some applications of derivatives and integrals. This course will prepare students for College Level Calculus. Calculus (Honors) Grade 11 Prerequisite: Completion of Pre-Calculus Credit: 1.5 The course provides students with experience in the methods of differential and integral calculus. The field of inquiry includes: topics of analysis, differentiation, applications of differentiation, integration, applications of integration. Finite Mathematics Grade 12 Prerequisite: Completion of Precalculus Credit: 1.5 The course reviews fundamental ideas on functions from earlier mathematics, in particular those related to linear or exponential behavior. From this foundation, students are provided an intuitive and practical introduction to problems from the mathematics of finance, linear programming, probability and simple data analysis. Concrete applications to aspects of biology, business or the social sciences are emphasized. This course offers students an opportunity to strengthen and broaden their preparation for college or trade work. AP Calculus AB (AP) Grade 11-12 Prerequisite: Completion Calculus or Precalculus w/ Beg. Calc. Credit: 1.5 This college level course prepares students to take the AP Calculus AB exam through the study of calculus including both differential and integral topics. This course is analytical in nature and requires a background in algebra, geometry, and pre-calculus. Students will be introduced to the methods of differentiation, the techniques of differentiation, and the applications of differentiation. As a part of this aspect of the course, students will become familiar with the concepts of limits, functions, and continuity. The integration portion of the course will explore methods and techniques of integration as well as applications of integration. Course topics include: Limits and Continuity, Differentiation, Techniques of Differentiation, Applications of Differentiation, Integration, Techniques of Integration, and Applications of Integration. AP Calculus BC (AP) Grade 11-12 Prerequisite: Completion Calculus (H) or Precalculus (Adv) Credit: 1.5 This college level course prepares students to take the AP Calculus BC exam through the study of calculus including both differential and integral topics. This course is analytical in nature and requires a background in algebra, geometry, and pre-calculus. Students will be introduced to the methods of differentiation, the techniques of differentiation, and the applications of differentiation. As a part of this aspect of the course, students will become familiar with the concepts of limits, functions, and continuity. The integration portion of the course will explore methods and techniques of integration as well as applications of integration. The course topics include Limits and Continuity; Differentiation; Techniques of Differentiation, including L’Hopital’s Rule; Applications of Differentiation; Integration; Techniques of Integration, including integration by partial fractions; Applications of Integration; and Taylor and MacLaurin series.

Accounting and Business Fundamentals Grade 12 Prerequisite: None Credit: 1 Students will study topics such as financial planning, how to keep a checkbook, how to reconcile a bank statement, budgeting, investing, how to prepare your income tax return, and how to start a business. Students will also learn the “language” of business – Accounting. Students will learn the accounting cycle from recording and posting transactions, preparing worksheets and balancing them, and how to prepare and analyze financial statements for small businesses. Students will also be learning/using Microsoft Excel and accounting software throughout the course. Statistics Grade 12 Prerequisite: None Credit: 1 This course introduces students to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. Students are exposed to four broad conceptual themes: • Exploring Data: Describing patterns and departures from patterns • Sampling and Experimentation: Planning and conducting a study • Anticipating Patterns: Exploring random phenomena using probability and simulation • Statistical Inference: Estimating population parameters and testing hypotheses (time permitting) AP Statistics (AP) Grade 12 Prerequisite: None Credit: 1.5 This course introduces students to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. Students are exposed to four broad conceptual themes: • Exploring Data: Describing patterns and departures from patterns • Sampling and Experimentation: Planning and conducting a study • Anticipating Patterns: Exploring random phenomena using probability and simulation • Statistical Inference: Estimating population parameters and testing hypotheses Multivariable Calculus (Advanced) Grade 12 Prerequisite: Completion of AP Calculus Credit: 1 The course completes the study of Calculus of a single variable and provides broad exposure to Multivariable Calculus useful for technical or scientific fields in College. Topics include a review of differentiation and a complete overview of techniques of integration, Mean Value and l’Hopital’s rule, sequences and series, Taylor series, plane vector functions, parametrics and polar coordinates, vector products and vector geometry in space, space curves, cylindrical and spherical coordinates, functions of 2 & 3 variables, partial differentiation, implicit differentiation, higher order derivatives and Clairaut’s theorem, gradient, tangent planes & linear approximation, maxima and minima, Lagrange multipliers, double and triple integrals, iterated integrals, coordinate transformations, applications, line integrals, vector fields, curl & divergence, and an introduction to Green’s theorem.

Vector Calculus (Advanced) Grade 12 Prerequisite: Completion of AP Calculus Credit: 1 A year course which builds upon the students background in single variable calculus and carries out a study of the calculus in R^2 and R^3, with extensions to R^N as appropriate. Topics include, vectors and matrices, vector products and geometry, theory and applications of space curves, mean value theorems and l’Hopital’s rule, sequences and series, power series & Taylor series, functions of 2&3 or N variables, limits & continuity, partial derivatives, implicit derivatives, the chain rule & applications, higher order derivatives and Clairaut’s theorem, the gradient, the Jacobian matrix and differentiation of multivariable functions, geometric interpretation as tangent “planes” and linear approximation, taylor expansions and series for functions of 2 variables, the Hessian matrix and the determinations of maxima & minima & saddle points, lagrange multipliers & constrained extrema, the bordered Hessian, the Riemann integral for functions of 2 & 3 variables, iterated integrals, Fubini’s theorem, applications to area & volume & mechanics, coordinate transformations, the Jacobian determinant, introduction to the implicit and inverse function theorems, vector fields, curl and divergence, conservative fields and potential functions, line integrals, Greens theorem and applications, surfaces and surface area, Stokes theorem and Divergence theorem. Linear Algebra/ Differential Equations (Advanced) Grade 12 Prerequisite: Completion of AP Calculus Credit: 1 This is a college level course on fundamental principles and uses of Linear Algebra and Ordinary Differential Equations. Students will learn to read and write proofs, in addition to studying methods of calculation. The topics covered include matrices and their properties, systems of linear equations with an emphasis on Gaussian elimination, determinants & their uses, vector spaces and their development through the Fundamental Theorem of Linear Algebra, inner product spaces, linear transformations, and eigenvalues and eigenvectors. There will be a brief introduction to first and second order differential equations. The course will culminate with the solution of systems of linear differential equations with the aid of linear algebra methods and properties studied earlier in the course. In addition students will study linear algebra and differential equations applications and will work on various real word problems. Art, The World, and the Mathematical Perspective Grade 10-12 Prerequisite: None Credit: .5

Students explore the “Big Picture” as they investigate, in accord with their backgrounds and interests how the Arts and the Humanities connect with the mathematical imagination in guiding and representing the human understanding of the World. Studies will include a variety of examples of what this all means. Students will have the opportunity to progressively engage with areas of more specific focus. At the end of the year the course is completed with an approved project which students will present to the class, ranging from a work of art to an expository paper to an architectural design to whatever you can convince the instructor is worth doing as a project.

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PHYSICAL EDUCATION COURSES

AMSA students are required to take 4 years of Physical Education/Health and Wellness. For the 2015-2016 school year:

• Students in grade 9 take Physical Education #1732. • Students in grade 10 take Health and Wellness # 1752. • Students in grade 11 take Physical Education #1753. • Seniors will be required to take Physical Education for .25 credits but does not need to be

accounted for when signing up for classes at this time. It will be automatically fit into the students' schedules.

Physical Education Grade 9 and 11 Prerequisite: None Credit .5 The high school physical education program at AMSA is designed to give students the opportunity to learn through a comprehensive Kinesiology and Physical Education program in accordance with the Ma frameworks for Physical Education. Students will be empowered to make healthy choices, meet challenges and develop positive behaviors in fitness, wellness and movement activity for a lifetime. Emphasis is placed on analyzing skills for effective movement. Units of instruction include: fitness (including fitness technology), individual and dual activities, rhythms/dance and project adventure. Health & Wellness Grades 10 Prerequisite: None Credit .5 The high school physical education program at AMSA is designed to give students the opportunity to learn through a comprehensive Kinesiology and Physical Education program in accordance with the Ma frameworks for Physical Education. Students will be empowered to make healthy choices, meet challenges and develop positive behaviors in fitness, wellness and movement activity for a lifetime. Emphasis is placed on students analyzing skills for effective movement. Units of instruction include: fitness (including fitness technology), individual and dual activities, rhythms/dance and project adventure.

Senior PE Grade 12 Prerequisite: None Credit .25 The senior physical education program at AMSA is designed to give students the opportunity to put to use all lead up games, activities and skills (gross and fine motor) they have learned over the previous years in the program. Students will be empowered to make healthy choices, meet challenges and develop positive behaviors in fitness, wellness and movement activity for a lifetime. Emphasis is placed on students analyzing skills for effective movement. Units of instruction include: fitness (including fitness technology), individual and dual activities, rhythms/dance and project adventure. **********************************************************************************

SCIENCE DEPARTMENT COURSES AMSA students are required to take and pass Biology, Chemistry and Physics. It is highly recommended by the Science Department that students take Biology in the 9th grade, Chemistry in the 10th grade and Physics in the 11th grade. Additionally students will be given the opportunity to take AP courses in Biology, Chemistry and Physics. In the 12th grade the Science department will be offering several electives in different disciplines. Teacher recommendation is required for all College Prep, Honors and Advanced Placement courses. Biology (College Prep or Honors) Grade 9 Prerequisite: None Credit: 1 Biology is the study of life but here students will begin to understand that everything in the world around them is tied into biology. Students explore biology using standards-based curriculum in the areas of biochemistry, cellular biology, gene expression, inheritance, human anatomy, botany, evolution and ecology. This is a laboratory science course, but does not include dissections. Lab techniques learned in previous courses will be utilized and refined as students complete laboratory investigations throughout the course. AP Biology (AP) Grade 10-12 Prerequisite: Completion of Biology Credit: 1.5 AP Biology is an inquiry based learning course with a curriculum approved by the College Board. Students will be immersed in the field of biology with an emphasis on cellular biology. A significant portion of the course will include laboratory investigations, which directly relate to the topics being studied. This course will prepare students to take the Advanced Placement Exam, as well as challenge students with an advanced freshmen college biology course, while in the support of a high school setting. Chemistry (College Prep or Honors) Grade 10 Prerequisite: None Credit: 1 Students will engage in a rigorous investigation of theoretical and quantitative aspects of chemistry including atomic structure, nuclear, chemical bonding, intermolecular forces, stoichiometry, periodicity, gas laws, thermochemistry, solutions, kinetics, equilibrium, acids and bases, redox, electrochem, and organic. Concepts and ideas are presented through class discussion, readings, demonstrations, and laboratory experiments, with students working independently to build understanding. Solid math skills and ability to use inferential reasoning are expected of students. Students are expected to perform laboratory experiments and write lab reports with well thought out and reasoned conclusions based on their own independent analysis.

AP Chemistry (AP) Grade 11-12 Prerequisite: Completion of Chemistry Credit: 1.5 The content of the course will include topics covered under the Advanced Placement Chemistry syllabus with a particular focus on bonding, equilibrium, kinetics, thermodynamics, organic, and electrochemistry. The course emphasizes a much more detailed study of theory requiring students to have a strong understanding of basic chemistry. Students will conduct numerous experiments throughout the year, such as: organic separation via distillation, kinetics studies, cation determination, ester synthesis, Emission spectra, titrations, and the synthesis of aspirin and conversion to wintergreen oil. Students will develop their own procedures for experiments and conduct the lab calumniating in a detailed lab report. Students are expected to be independent thinkers and hands on learners. A variety of analytical equipment and techniques will be used by students. Physics (College Prep or Honors) Grade 11 Prerequisite: None Credit: 1 Physics is a thorough investigation of the fundamental topics of Physics. Five main areas are explored: mechanics, thermodynamics, optics, magnetism, and electricity. Through modeling and demonstration, students are expected to gain a deep understanding of key theories and concepts and be able to independently apply them in new and novel situations. Honors students are expected to enter the class with a strong understanding of algebra and trigonometry as the class will focus on using these mathematical skills to understand physics concepts. Class time will be devoted to problem solving and sophisticated laboratory exercises allowing students opportunity to develop and hone understanding. Nightly homework will often focus on novel problem solving and will average one hour per night. AP Physics (AP) Grade 12 Prerequisite: Completion of Physics Credit: 1.5 In this course, mechanics will be taught in the fall and electricity & magnetism in the spring. The course includes mechanics and electricity and magnetism in full detail, has a strong laboratory component, and emphasizes student problem solving strategies. Most of the topics will be introduced using related questions or problems. During the course, students will learn problem solving techniques, including inquiry based learning, student centered problem solving, and graphical approaches to problem solving and calculus based problem solving techniques. The lab portion will help develop both an understanding of the physics concepts as well as the ability to design and utilize an open-ended inquiry based method of exploration. These labs will require students to analyze data in a variety of methods including data tables and graphs in order to develop higher level thinking skills. SCIENCE ELECTIVES Sustainable Environment Grade 11-12 Prerequisite: None Credit: 1 Sustainability is the capacity to endure. For humans, sustainability is the long-term maintenance of responsibility, which has environmental, economic, and social dimensions, and encompasses the concept of stewardship, the responsible management of resource use. Sustainability is a course designed to engage students to assess their impact on the environment and to create long lasting sustainable habits and actions.

Forensic Science Grade 11-12 Prerequisite: None Credit: .5 Students will apply science to the law and encompass various scientific disciplines. This course will introduce various methodologies and applications used in the forensic context. The topics discussed in this course include examination of physical evidence, principles of DNA analysis, identification hair and fiber, ballistics, fingerprint analysis, blood spatter, autopsy, impression, drug analysis, and question documents. Students will listen to lectures about each topic, and then conduct laboratory experiments to understand and reinforce these topics. Field Methods & GIS Grade 11-12 Prerequisite: None Credit: 1 GIS (Geographic Information Systems) is a computer based mapping systems that compiles layers of data into the program to create maps and informational geospatial images. Students will have the opportunity to conduct scientific research of their own both in the field and in the Lab that they will be analyzing with ArcGIS. This is a project based class that will teach students how to organize and keep a field book in order, as well as teach them key field strategies and techniques that make a field scientist successful. Students will collect data and conduct studies that include: soil analysis, watershed models, water quality analysis, stream dynamic studies, ecology analysis, orienteering, and more. This course will provide practical hands on approach to scientific inquiry and methods, as well as spatial analysis with the use of GIS. Students will bring in data they collected from the field and will learn to interpret the data using the GIS software. Skills that are learned in this class will prepare students for career paths in all field sciences, technology, ecology, and geography. Anatomy and Physiology Grade 12 Prerequisite: None Credit: 1 Students will engage in a detailed study of the anatomy and physiology of vertebrate body systems. Areas of study include the skeletal, cardiovascular, digestive, muscular, nervous, immune and endocrine systems. Structural similarities between vertebrate groups will be emphasized as well as microscopic study of tissue types. Students will also participate in the dissection of a representative vertebrate (bullfrog)—alternatives to dissection are not available in this course. Students are expected to demonstrate appropriate communication strategies through a variety of writing assignments and oral presentations. The concepts covered in this course can be applied to personal health and wellness as well as the health and wellness of the global community. **********************************************************************************

WORLD LANGUAGE DEPARTMENT COURSES The goal of the language department is to foster a broad world view while helping students recognize their own innate ability to learn new languages and achieve proficiency in their target language. Two years of language study are required for high school graduation. Most colleges and universities prefer to see continuous study of the same language on a transcript, and more selective colleges may require three or four years of study. Students must meet the prerequisites in order to take a course and teacher recommendation is required. AMSA currently offers a choice of three languages to grades 9-12: French, Latin, and Spanish. Students who continue their study of Latin will begin Latin 2 in grade 9. Those electing to take French or Spanish will begin with level one. An AP course is offered in each language in grade 12 (or with teacher recommendation in grade 11).

French Courses French 1 (College Prep) Grade 9 Prerequisite: None Credit: 1 In French 1, students are exposed daily to the spoken language in order to practice pronunciation and develop the skills needed for effective communication. Students practice all components of language learning--listening, speaking, reading, and writing—in individual and group assignments. Through reading selections, students will gain an in-depth cultural awareness of the French speaking countries. By the end of this course, the thematic vocabulary and basic grammar structures, such as the present tense of regular and irregular verbs, will enable students to carry on basic conversations about everyday life experiences. French 2 (College Prep) Grade 10 Prerequisite: Completion of French 1 Credit: 1 This course builds on the skills of the first level program, using more complex vocabulary and phrases necessary when communicating in various situations. Students will continue to develop speaking skills through prepared and impromptu conversations and skits. This course will allow students to improve their writing skills through the introduction of other tenses such as the subjunctive and conditional. Students will expand their reading strategies through reading selections and some adaptations of French authors. Furthermore, the essential question “How the aspects of French culture are similar and/or different from that of American culture?” will expand the knowledge learned in other disciplines.

French 3 (College Prep or Honors) Grade 11 Prerequisite: Completion of French 2 Credit: 1 The primary goal of this course is for students to understand and communicate in the target language at an advanced proficiency. To that end, students study advanced vocabulary, expressions, and grammatical structures, read in-depth texts concerning cultural aspects of francophone countries, analyze literary excerpts, and produce original compositions and oral presentations. The exploration of essential questions such as “How does technology impact one’s life?”, “Does education guarantee a successful professional and personal life?”, and “What are the global challenges we face in the 21st century?” will serve as a platform for spoken and written expression on contemporary topics. French 3 Honors students should have demonstrated mastery in French 2 as the honors course will be conducted at an accelerated pace and mostly in French. French Lit and Film (College Prep) Grade 12 Prerequisite: Completion of French 3 Credit: 1 This course examines a variety of political, historical and social themes throughout the centuries to explore the essential question “How have the French society and its social values changed throughout the years?” Students will improve their French conversational skills through class discussions, small presentations, analysis, and comparison of the scenes. Students will also improve their listening skills through film and other online sources. The more advanced grammar concepts such as past infinitive, gerund, passive voice, and indirect speech will strengthen their expression of ideas in both oral and written language. AP French (AP) Grade 12 Prerequisite: Completion of French 3 Credit: 1

The AP French language course is equivalent to a college course. Periodicals, the internet, music, and DVDs offer opportunities to master the reading and listening skills needed for fluent communication in French. Through writing, reading and speaking on a wide range of topics, students expand their vocabulary, develop their writing style, and improve their critical skills in preparation for the AP exam. To a large extent, classes are conducted in the target language. - Based on student interest and teacher availability.

Spanish Courses

Spanish 1 (College Prep) Grade 9 Prerequisite: None Credit: 1 In Spanish 1, students will be introduced to thematic vocabulary and basic grammatical structures, with the goal of achieving novice level proficiency. Students will be exposed daily to the spoken language and will begin to develop their skills in the four principal areas of competency: listening, reading, writing and speaking. The culture of Spanish-speaking countries is an important topic, offering insight and context to assignments. By the end of this course, students will have the necessary tools to carry on basic conversations in the present tense about everyday life experiences.

Spanish 2 (College Prep or Honors) Grade 10 Prerequisite: Completion of Spanish 1 Credit: 1 Spanish 2 builds upon the foundation provided in Spanish 1. Students will further develop their competency skills in listening, reading, writing and speaking, with the goal of achieving intermediate level proficiency. Level-appropriate and authentic, literary, musical, cinematic, and technological resources will be used to broaden students’ knowledge of and appreciation for the culture and language of the Spanish-speaking world. Students will be able to comprehend level appropriate target language content in written and audio form, produce a variety of written works, and make presentations in the target language. By the end of the course students are expected to communicate with proficiency about real-life topics in the present, past, and future. Spanish 2 Honors students should have demonstrated mastery in Spanish 1 as the course will be conducted at an accelerated pace and mostly in Spanish. Spanish 3 (College Prep or Honors) Grade 11 Prerequisite: Completion of Spanish 2 Credit: 1 This course builds on students’ foundational knowledge from Spanish 2 and introduces new vocabulary and grammar topics. Students will further develop the four skills of listening, reading, writing and speaking, as well as learn all advanced grammar in order to achieve the goal of advanced proficiency. To that end, we will read and analyze a variety of authentic written texts and will watch and listen to a broad range of video and audio material. In addition, they will strengthen their writing skills through a variety of written works as well as their speaking skills through paired dialogues, class discussions, presentations and skits. Furthermore, we will explore in depth the rich geography, history, art and culture of the vast Spanish–speaking world. By the end of the course students are expected to communicate proficiently about real-life topics using advanced grammar concepts. Spanish 3 Honors students should have demonstrated mastery in Spanish 2 as the course will be conducted at an accelerated pace and almost exclusively in Spanish. Spanish film/culture (College Prep) Grade 12 Prerequisite: Completion of Spanish 3 Credit: 1 This course will explore the history and culture of the countries that comprise the Spanish Speaking world, primarily through the medium of Film. Instruction and assignments will be given in a combination of Spanish and English, therefore successful completion of Spanish 3 is a pre-requisite for this course. Students will study the history of individual countries such that they have a basis by which to evaluate the context in which the filmmakers created. Current events, short stories, and literature will also be utilized with the goal of sharpening the students’ skills in writing, conversation, grammar and vocabulary.

AP Spanish (AP) Grade 12 Prerequisite: Completion of Spanish 3 Credit: 1 This course is conducted entirely in Spanish and the students are expected to speak only in Spanish. It is intended for the students to reach superior proficiency and prepare them for the AP Spanish Exam by the College Board. The AP Spanish Language course is designed to build on the students’ advanced proficiency through a series of critical thinking activities touching upon five world-wide themes: Global Challenges, Families and Communities, Beauty, Science and Technology, and Identities. These themes are explored through more specific subthemes that will lead them to apply their writing, speaking, listening and reading skills via a variety of resources such as textbooks, websites, music, podcasts, persuasive essays, graphs and charts, audio lectures, advanced grammar review and cultural comparisons. The standards that will be assessed in the AP exam are Interpersonal Speaking (conversation); Presentational Speaking (cultural comparison); Interpersonal Writing (e-mail reply) and Presentational Writing (Persuasive essay). By the end of the course students are expected to express themselves well orally and in writing in both the formal and informal register; understand the spoken language and have acquired a superior level of proficiency.

Latin Courses Latin 2 (College Prep) Grade 9 Prerequisite: Completion of Latin 1b Credit: 1 Latin 2 continues from the finishing point of Latin 1b. Students will complete their initial study of Latin grammar and Roman culture. Students investigate famous Roman figures, such as Cicero and Julius Caesar, Martial and Catullus, Pliny and Ovid. Students will also begin to read mythological stories in Latin. Aspects of Roman political and literary culture are included, integrating topics such as poetry, oratory, politics, and religion. Latin 3 (College Prep or Honors) Grade 10 Prerequisite: Completion of Latin 2 Credit: 1

Latin 3 students will survey three important poets of Latin love poetry. Using a graded Latin reader and advancing to more challenging selections, students will read works by Catullus, Ovid, and Horace. Along with the selections of Latin poetry, students will review grammar points as needed and examine relevant aspects of Roman history and culture that provide context for the readings. Latin 4 (College Prep or Honors) Grade 11 Prerequisite: Completion of Latin 3 Credit: 1

Latin 4 students will survey a number of important authors using a graded Latin reader and advancing to more challenging selections. Students will read works by the great figures of the late Republic and early Empire, including Caesar, Cicero, Pliny, and Livy, and discuss their significance to the ancient world and relevance for the modern world. Along with the selections of Latin prose, students will review selected grammar points and examine pertinent topics in Roman history and culture.

AP Latin (AP) Grade 12 Prerequisite: Completion of Latin 4 Credit: 1 In preparation for the Latin AP exam, students will read in Latin excerpts from Vergil’s Aeneid and the works of Cicero. Additional selections will be read in translation. In addition to completing literal translations, students will discuss, analyze, and interpret the text within its historical context. Students will learn scansion and how to read the poem aloud in its dactylic hexameter verse. The literary genre of epic and pertinent Roman cultural, social, and political history is another area of focus. The course will prepare students to analyze imagery and figures of speech in the poem and to discuss the structure of the Aeneid. **********************************************************************************