S.T.E.M.
Science, Technology, Engineering, & Math
Mathematics
A study of numerical and algebraic relations using writing, sketching and solving equations, factoring quadratic equations, solving systems of linear equations, and algebra problems in the coordinate plane.
This course contains the standard topics of Algebra I: real numbers; solving, graphing and analyzing linear equalities and inequalities; and solving, graphing, and exploring polynomials. The course also integrates introductory geometry, trigonometry and statistics/probability. The topics are presented through connecting math to the real world, applying math to solve real world problems and integrating several concepts of mathematics to show that mathematics is a spiraling progression and each concept is not isolated from the others. These topics will be covered in greater depth with more challenging problems and a greater emphasis on problem solving. This will include ACT and PSAT practice as well as problems of the week, which students work on independently. In addition, students will complete quarter projects.
This course is a study of Euclidean Geometry. Topics discussed include dimensional objects (lines, planes, polygons, circles, and polyhedrons), angular measurement, congruency, similarity, deductive and inductive reasoning, formal proofs, relational computations (perimeter, area, and volume), right triangle trigonometry, and practical applications. Algebraic concepts and techniques are integrated and emphasized through the course to aid in the understanding of geometric concepts and applications, and to reinforce proficiency in algebraic skills.
A continuation of Algebra I and Geometry, this course focuses on rational expressions, real and complex numbers, quadratic expressions and equations, analytic geometry, functions, conics, exponents and logarithms, trigonometry, and matrices.
This course is designed to address the fundamental math concepts that students will need to be successful in their freshman college math course. It begins with a rigorous ACT math review of each content area within the ACT math test prior to the senior ACT testing. The remainder of the year will focus on mastering the concepts of Algebra I and II, including trigonometry, and focus on applications and extensions included in college content. As a part of the college preparation experience, students will complete classroom activities using a variety of computer software programs. Students will also complete many homework assignments online, in a manner similar to what they will do in college.
This higher math course is designed to provide students with a mathematical background adequate for success in college level mathematics. This class integrates technology with traditional approaches to teach students about functions, limits, approximations, and topics from discrete mathematics. Students learn to make and support conjectures graphically, symbolically, and numerically.
Calculus is a higher math course concentrating on differentiation, integration, and the application of the theoretical work of calculus to concrete situations. College credit via the AP exam is the primary goal of the course.
Science
This is an introductory course in the biological sciences. Students are exposed to basic concepts pertaining to Ecology, Cytology, Reproduction, Genetics, Metabolic Processes (photosynthesis and cellular respiration), and selected Human Body systems (digestion and the immune system).
The anatomy course is intended for students with an interest in medicine or health-related fields. Students study the anatomy and physiology of selected body systems while learning how to dissect related organs. (One semester)
This course focuses on chemical reactions; introduces fundamentals of the atomic theory: the mole concept; kinetic theory of matter; atomic structure and chemical bonding. Laboratory work is devoted to a study of chemical reactions, the similar properties of chemical families of elements, and qualitative analysis of unknowns.
This course presents the core of physics study: Energy, mechanics, Newton’s Laws, electromagnetism, wave theory and optics. The course also relates physics to astronomy, chemistry, applied science and technology. Physics is taught with emphasis on concepts rather than deriving a number, and on critical thinking rather than computation. Equations serve as a guide to thinking, rather than the purpose of a lesson.
This course is designed to be the equivalent of the general chemistry course usually taken during the first college year. AP Chemistry meets the objectives of a good general college chemistry course. Students in AP Chemistry should attain a depth of understanding of fundamentals and a reasonable competence in dealing with chemical problems. The course should contribute to the development of the students’ abilities to think clearly and to express their ideas, orally and in writing, with clarity and logic. Topics such as the structure of matter, kinetic theory of gases, chemical equilibria, chemical kinetics, and the basic concepts of thermodynamics will be presented in considerable depth. AP Chemistry will provide a laboratory experience equivalent to that of a typical college course. College credit via the AP exam is the primary goal of the course.
Technology
Microsoft TEALS-Introduction to Computer Science
Introduction to Computer Science is an engaging course that explores a variety of basic computational thinking and programming concepts through a project-based learning environment. Every unit culminates in a comprehensive project and roughly 75% of student time is spent building projects and practicing the skills they are learning. This curriculum is designed for use with the Snap! programming language designed at the University of California, Berkeley. Snap! is a visual programming language designed to allow students to focus on concepts and skills rather than syntax when learning to program. Snap! is an extension and reimplementation of Scratch, designed at MIT, and many Scratch lessons and programs can be easily adapted to Snap!
Cisco Systems Network Academy-Introduction to Networking
Introduction to fundamentals of networking. Highlighting practical and conceptual skills required to understand current and emerging technologies. Outlining basic networking technologies including OSI model, TCP/IP model, networking devices, media types, and network addressing schemes. Basic configuration of routers and switches.