Course Offerings
Studio Art Full Year 1 Credit
Studio Art is a comprehensive foundation course. The course offers a wide variety of art experiences based upon the understanding, knowledge, appreciation and application of the fundamental elements and principles of art. Some of the basic topics covered are: Drawing, painting, form, composition, color, line, value, perspective, design, and art appreciation.
Artwork will be made using a variety of materials, enabling the student to explore techniques and discover their creative potential.
Drawing & Painting I Full Year 1 Credit
The drawing portion will cover a basic exploration of the various techniques used with pencil, ink, charcoal, pastel and oil pastels to depict a broad sampling of subject matter. The painting portion will introduce students to acrylic, watercolor and tempera paints.
Both portions will use many techniques which will provide students of all ability levels to create a variety of realistic and abstract art work. Students are helped individually to increase their understanding and art skills, and to develop a portfolio of their art work.
Pre-requisite: Studio Art
Drawing & Painting II Full Year 1 Credit
This course is a continuation of Drawing & Painting 1, exploring styles and techniques of the masters, and further developing the students understanding of drawing techniques. Illustration, cartooning, and the principle elements of two-dimensional design will be covered. Students will continue to critique their own art and the art of others. They are encouraged to develop a greater understanding of the elements and principles of art, and explore those ideas through their own creative endeavors. A great emphasis will be placed upon developing the students’ individual style.
Pre-requisite: Drawing & Painting I
Independent Study Full Year 0.5 Credit
This course is for the advanced art student. The student can work independently on improving their style and use of media in drawing, painting and ceramics, while accumulating their portfolio. Research papers in art history can also be used to attain credit toward graduation. This course is offered on alternating days by arrangement with the instructor.
Ceramics I Half Year 0.5 Credit
This course, offered daily, is designed to develop the student’s abilities with the ceramic media. Students will explore methods to create both functional and sculptural forms, relating them to contemporary as well as historic and cultural works in the medium. Hand built forms will be created using coil, pinch and slab methods. Wheel throwing and glazing will be explored.
Pre-requisite: Studio Art
Ceramics II Half Year 0.5 Credit
This course, offered daily, will allow the students to explore in greater depth the techniques covered in Ceramics I. Increased attention will be given to design and form, with a variety of sculptural and practical objects being created. Portrait heads, sneakers, and leaf bowls are some of the projects that have been explored in the past. Glazing techniques are explored in greater depth.
Pre-requisite: Ceramics I
ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
Our High School English program focuses on the area of Literature, composition and language skills. There is emphasis throughout the four years on improving these areas. The Regents exam is given in January of the 11 grade, and can be re-taken in June of that year, if necessary. Literature each year consists of at least six literary masterpieces. Such works include Of Mice and Men, To Kill a Mockingbird, A Raisin in the Sun, Fahrenheit 451, and many more. Shakespeare is covered each year.
Regents English 9 Full Year 1 Credit
This course lays the foundation for the four-year Regents sequence culminating in the Regents examination in the junior year. In line with NYS standards for ELA, the course focuses on composition, literature, and vocabulary in context. Students begin writing single paragraph themes, with an emphasis on grammar and usage, and the writing of various sentence types to create well written paragraphs. Students are also exposed to works from a variety of genres, including novels, short stories, poetry and plays. Students are given instruction in the beginning stages of those skills needed to pass an English Regents.
Pre-requisite: English 8
Regents English 10 Full Year 1 Credit
This course will build on the skills learned in 9th grade. In literature study, connections are made between themes of various novels, including prejudice, betrayal, and overcoming adversity. Composition work begins to focus on those writing skills that will be necessary to meet the Regents curriculum requirements. More emphasis is placed on note taking when listening passages are presented. Students begin writing more directed papers geared to specific audiences. Focus is also placed on Regents type multiple choice questions for listening passages, factual essays, poems and memoirs.
Pre-requisite: Regents English 9
Regents English 11 Full Year 1 Credit
The first part of this course is spent on further development of the four components of the Regents Exam. Emphasis is placed on developing all aspects of each section. Students will continue to read literature from the list of grade appropriate novels. Connections are made to themes developed in prior years. General life lessons are reinforced based on the themes presented in the covered literature. Students will take the English Regents Exam in January of this year, and if necessary, will have the opportunity to re-take the exam in June.
Students receive initial exposure to SAT materials and college placement exams.
Pre-requisite: Regents English 10
English 12 Full Year 1 Credit
Students receive further exposure to college placement exams so as to develop those skills needed to enter a college program. We reinforce grammar, sentence correction, reading comprehension and creative writing skills specifically geared toward college entrance exams. There is emphasis on SAT skills for those students hoping to enroll in a four year college.
Students will review and conclude those skills developed throughout high school. They will continue writing papers to further strengthen grammar, vocabulary, spelling and basic research skills. There is also an emphasis on public speaking skills. Students are exposed to work related skills such as employment applications and role playing job interviewing skills.
Students will continue reading novels, plays and short stories. Themes will be discussed in relation to the students’ life experiences.
Pre-requisite: Regents English 11.
MATHEMATICS
Mathematics A1 Full Year 1 Credit
This course consists of the first two semesters of the four semester integrated mathematics program based on the Math A curriculum. This first course focuses on a problem-solving approach to introduce the students to algebra, basic geometry, solving equations, scientific notation, monomials, polynomials, consecutive integers, inequalities, ratio and proportion, statistics, factoring algebraic fractions, quadratic equations, rational and irrational numbers, system of equations, graphing and transformation.
Mathematics A2 (extended) Full Year 1 Credit
This course consists of the second year of an extended integrated math program based on the New York State Math A Regents curriculum. This second course in the Math A sequence continues the problem solving approach to further develop the topics of algebra, geometry, probability, and statistics. More specifically, the students will work on factoring algebraic fractions, quadratic equations, rational and irrational numbers, system of equations, graphing and transformation. This course works at a slower pace than a traditional three semester course to allow more reinforcement of the material. All students are required to take the Math A Regents examination upon completion of this course.
Pre-requisite: Successful completion of Math A1.
Mathematics B1 Full Year 1 Credit
This course consists of the first two semesters of a three to four semester integrated mathematics program based on the Math B curriculum. This first course in the Math B Sequence includes a formal study of Euclidean geometry and introduces the students to intermediate and matrix algebra, as well as quadratic, exponential, logarithmic and trigonometric functions in an integrated manner. Problem solving, open-ended questioning, rubrics and writing in mathematics are emphasized.
Pre-requisite: Successful completion of Math A.
Mathematics B2 Full Year 1 Credit
This course consists of the last year of a two year extended integrated mathematics program based on the Math B curriculum. The course develops and extends the concepts of algebra, trigonometry, probability and statistics, and will emphasize the application of concepts to real life situations. The course includes a comprehensive study of intermediate and matrix algebra, quadratic, exponential, logarithmic and trigonometric functions.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION/HEALTH
Physical Education (4 years) Full Year 0.5 Credit
The goal of the high school health and physical education experience is to prepare students to live a healthy and physically active lifestyle. Health and physical education are a major part of a full enrichment program. The physical education curriculum includes a wide range of activities that promote socialization, develop interest in participation, facilitate daily life and enrich leisure time. Those activities include but are not limited to physical fitness, team and individual sports, cooperative games, initiative competitions and lifetime leisure sports. The physical education program promotes a healthy lifestyle, critical thinking, socialization skills and personal responsibility in activity settings. By instructional design, each student progress is measured and documented through individualized and cooperative learning experiences. Each year, the physical education course is offered on alternating days.
Health Education Full Year 0.5 Credit
Health education instills in students the knowledge and skills to examine alternatives and make responsible health-related decisions drawing on knowledge from the biological, environmental, psychological, social, physical and medical sciences, health education helps students learn to prevent and manage health problems. The course, offered on alternating days, will include content such as nutrition, physical activity, tobacco, body systems, HIV/AIDS/STI, family/sexual health, alcohol and other drugs.
SCIENCE
The Living Environment Full Year 1 Credit
This course and laboratory components are designed to provide an introduction to the general principles of biology. They will develop an increased awareness of the consequences that can result from interaction with the environment. Included in the core are such topics as the origins of life on Earth, Biochemistry, Human Physiology, Reproduction and Development, Modern Genetics and Ecology. The minimum 1200 minute biology laboratory component must be taken concurrently and successfully completed for admission to the New York State Regents assessment at the conclusion of this course.
Earth Science Full Year 1 Credit
This course and its laboratory component, based on the New York State Science core curriculum, are designed to provide an investigative survey of the scientific principles associated with the Earth Sciences. Laboratory work includes directed study that continues to build upon the investigatory skills developed in middle school, as well as those developed in the living environment. Topics include Observation and Measurement, Parts of the Earth, Mineralogy, Position and Direction Finding, Mapping Weather and Climate, the Water Cycle, Weathering and Erosion, Rivers, Glaciers, Earthquakes, Volcanoes, Mountain Building, Plate Tectonics and Continental Drift, Geologic History and Fossils, Landscape Formation and Environmental Change. The minimum 1200 minute biology laboratory component must be taken concurrently and successfully completed for admission to the New York State Regents assessment at the conclusion of this course.
Marine Science Full Year 1 Credit
This course is provided as an introduction to marine biology, and is designed for students interested in the marine environment of the Long Island area. It will encompass a detailed examination of the biology of the marine organisms found in the local waters and allow students to develop an awareness of the interrelationships which exist between humans and marine life. Concepts covered include ocean temperature and the support of life, features of the ocean floor, methods of ocean research, landform developments, and the introduction to all levels of marine life. A significant lab component is included in this course.
Environmental Science Full Year 1 Credit
This course is designed to introduce students to the very nature of Earth’s environment. Students will explore natural ecosystems, the relationship of plants, animals and humans on Earth, the use of natural resources, environmental hazards, and the use of renewable and non-renewable resources, Environmental ethics and civic responsibility will be developed. A significant lab component is included in this course.
Physical Science Full Year 1 Credit
This course is designed to introduce students to the concepts of physical science as it relates to human involvement. Concepts to be covered include electricity and magnetism, energy, wave types and behaviors, and mechanics.
Introduction to Computers Half Year 0.5 Credit
This course, offered daily, is designed to fulfill the graduation requirement for technology credit. This computer based, hands-on course is an introduction to the uses of a PC at home, school and business. It is designed to teach students keyboarding and typing skills, as well as basic Microsoft Word navigation. Students will have experiences with other Microsoft Office programs such as Powerpoint and Publisher.
SOCIAL STUDIES
Global History and Geography I (9th gr.) Full Year 1 Credit
This is the first in a two-year course of study that concludes with a mandated Regents examination. The scope of the course includes the study of major ideas, themes, eras, developments and turning points in world history, viewed from multiple perspectives. The relationship, location, and interdependence of individual societies to the global environment and geography will be integrated throughout this course. This first year covers the periods of time from the development of ancient civilizations through early modern times. Emphasis will be placed on the rise of civilizations, the development of societies, and the impact of cultural diffusion throughout the world.
Global History and Geography II (10th gr.) Full Year 1 Credit
This the second in a two year sequence designed to develop an understanding of world history through chronological events and thematic units. The course begins with early modern times (i.e. 18th century) and continues through to present day. Emphasis will be placed on the development of global interactions and world impact. Students will take a Regents examination covering two years of Global History at the conclusion of this course.
Pre-Requisite: Successful completion of Global History and Geography I.
This course concludes with a mandated New York State Regents examination. The scope of this course includes a study of why societies and governments are formed and the development of the United States Constitution; our system of government as well as other government systems and the political relationships of the United States within the international arena; and the history of our country as it developed and was affected by major ideas, events and turning points of domestic or international events. Other topics include the exploration of civic responsibility and citizenship and their importance in a democratic society, and the role of the
This course, offered daily, gives an overview on the development and purpose of different economic systems with an emphasis on capitalism and the economic model within the
This course, offered daily, introduces the concepts of civics. The emphasis is on citizen involvement in local, state, and federal government proceedings. This course provides an introduction to the origins of different branches of government within the United States, and the characteristics that make each unique. This course is intended to prepare students for daily life in the adult world by covering such topics as voter registration, political parties, levels of local court, and potential civic activities with the community.
VOCATIONAL EDUCATION
We have recently expanded our vocational programs to address the needs of all high school age students, and all students who will be turning 15 this school year. We have started a vocational exploration program, where students are able to experience various vocational activities. Currently, the activities include home improvement, introduction to cosmetology, and introduction to auto mechanics. The objective is to inspire our students to begin thinking about life after their post-secondary careers are over, and to consider whether or not they might want to pursue activities such as these at a higher level.
We also offer one formal vocational course:
Introduction to Vocations Full Year 0.5 Credit
This course, offered on alternating days, takes a multi-faceted approach to pre-vocational instruction. Following the guidelines set by the New York State curriculum for Career Development and Occupational Studies, our students are offered a variety of practical and applicable job related experiences, with an emphasis placed on finding and keeping a job. The main focus of the course is to enhance and develop career goals for each and every student in accordance with their transitional plans. Students will learn the concept of developing short and long term personal goals.
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