Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134...

58
Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road Media, PA 19063 610-627-6200 2015-2016

Transcript of Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134...

Page 1: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

Penncrest High SchoolCourse Selection Guide

134 Barren RoadMedia, PA 19063

610-627-6200

2015-2016

Page 2: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

2015-2016 Course Selection Guide

Page 1

Penncrest High School

INTRODUCTION It is now time for students who will attend Penncrest next year to choose their courses for 2015-2016. The Course Selection Guide has been designed to assist students in this process. We urge all students to refer to this Guide when selecting their courses and to consult with their counselors, teachers, and families. Our high school program permits a variety of course choices. We cannot overstate the importance of students’ taking the time to choose their courses carefully and to choose course alternates with care. Scheduling (including staffing, course placement, and section numbers) are based on pupils’ course selections. As a result, we cannot be optimistic about honoring significant change requests once the selections have been submitted and tallied. It is, therefore, in each student’s best interests that deci-sions regarding course options be thoughtful and firm. Selecting your courses wisely will make next year a productive one for you at Penncrest.

Sharon A. D. Sweeney, Assistant Principal

Table of ContentsINTRODUCTIONImportant Dates ....................................................................1Equity Statement ..................................................................1 Glossary of Key Terms .........................................................2Graduation Requirements ....................................................3Guidelines for School & Community Service .......................4Guidelines for Senior Project ................................................5Guidelines for Course Selection ...........................................6Course Selection Changes ...................................................6What Colleges Expect ..........................................................7Requirements to Play Division I or II NCAA Athletics ...........8AP Tests & Courses ............................................................10Academic Support Program ...............................................11Gifted Program ...................................................................11Independent Study for Credit..............................................11Career Exploration Opportunities .......................................12Career & Technical Education ............................................12Work Release .....................................................................12

GRADE LEVEL LISTING OF COURSESGrade 9..............................................................................13Grade 10.............................................................................14Grade 11 .............................................................................15Grade 12.............................................................................16

COURSE DESCRIPTIONSArt .......................................................................................18Business Education ............................................................21English ................................................................................23English for Speakers of Other Languages..........................28Family & Consumer Sciences ............................................29Mathematics .......................................................................30Music ..................................................................................35Physical Education & Health ..............................................38Science ...............................................................................40Social Studies .....................................................................44Special Education ...............................................................49Technology & Applied Engineering Education ....................50World Languages ...............................................................52

Important Dates

January 30 - February 11Counselors visit English classes to distribute course selection materials (Guides).Classroom teachers review department offerings and course requirements. Teacher recommendations available via HAC with the second quarter report card.Teachers review recommendations with students.

February 4 (Evening) Course Selection Evening - 7pm(Snow date February 5)

February 12 - March 3 Counselors return to classrooms to supervise course selection .

March 6Recommendations and selection verifications mailed to parents this week.

March 4 - 27 Counselors meet with individual students to make corrections and adjust requests.

Students must notify their counselors of any course change requests.

March 27 Final date for Placement Waivers

August 21 Final schedules available when HAC opens.

Penncrest High School, in compliance with federal and state laws and regulations governing affirmative action and non-discrimination, does not discriminate in the operation of any of its educational programs and activities as defined by law. Nothing in this publication should be viewed as directly or indirectly expressing any limitation, specification, or discrimination as to race, religion, color, or national origin; or to handicap or to sex, except as provided by law.

Page 3: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

Penncrest High School

Page 2

GLOSSARY OF KEY TERMSAdvanced Placement (AP) - Indicates a course which prepares students to take the Educational Testing Service’s Advanced Placement course in that subject area. See section on page 10 which gives further information about these exams.

Class Rank - The academic achievement attained by a student relative to all other students in his/her grade, expressed as a fraction (e.g., 2/316 indicates that the student ranks second in a class of 316 students). Only major courses (see definition of major below) are included in the ranking process. Exceptions include Physical Education, Health, and Academic Support classes; these courses are graded and are factored into a student’s unweighted GPA but are not ranked.

Elective - In a general sense, “elective” denotes a course which a student picks from among a variety of possibilities. For example, while ninth graders must all take English, they choose electives from among other departments, such as art, business education, and technology education. In regard to graduation requirements (see chart on the next page), these electives are courses from a variety of departments which help a student attain the required number of credits. Meeting this requirement will likely involve different courses for each student.

Grade Point Average (GPA) - In simplest terms, the GPA is a cumulative, numerical expression of a student’s average grades in ranked courses. It is computed by multiplying the credit for a course by the numerical value for the grade attained in the course; when all these figures are added together, the result is a student’s “quality point total” or “quality points,” and when that total is divided by the number of credits, the end result is the GPA. Unweighted GPA - is the result of dividing cumulative quality points on a 4.33 scale by the number of majors taken. Unweighted GPA is used primarily is determining eligibility for the Honor Roll. It is the GPA reported on Penncrest Report Cards.Weighted GPA - takes into consideration the degree of difficulty of the courses taken. To calculate the weighted GPA, take the weighted cumulative quality points and divide by the number of cumulative credits. Weighted GPA is used in calculating class rank.

Major - Any course that a student takes 5 or more periods per week all year or during a semester. The term has nothing to do with a “major” course of study, such as a college “major.” A passing grade in a major leads to the granting of 1 credit or .5 in semesterized majors.

Minor - Any course that a student takes fewer than 5 periods per week all year. At the present time, only Keystone Labs qualify as minors. The term has nothing to do with a “minor” course of study. A passing grade in a minor does lead to the granting of credit.

Proficiency - Formal name of the performance level that students must achieve on state or district standards to be considered as making adequate progress.

Rank Level - Classification which indicates the relative difficulty of any course at Penncrest. There are five such levels: AP is the highest, and 4 is the lowest. In the course catalogue section of this Guide, rank level is expressed in the course title as a number preceding the name. A rank level of “0” indicates an unranked course. Such courses do not figure in the class ranking process (see class rank above). The following chart expresses the weighted quality points for grades earned at each rank level. Rank is not reflected on report cards. Example: 2 Chemistry 1 means that this is a first year of Chemistry(1) offered at rank level 2.

Standard - State and district expectation for what students should know and be able to do.

Rank Level

of Class A+ A A- B+ B B- C+ C C- D+ D D- E

AP 7.83 7.50 7.16 6.83 6.50 6.16 5.83 5.50 5.16 4.83 4.50 4.16 0.00

1 7.33 7.00 6.66 6.33 6.00 5.66 5.33 5.00 4.66 4.33 4.00 3.66 0.00

2 6.33 6.00 5.66 5.33 5.00 4.66 4.33 4.00 3.66 3.33 3.00 2.66 0.00

3 5.33 5.00 4.66 4.33 4.00 3.66 3.33 3.00 2.66 2.33 2.00 1.66 0.00

4 4.33 4.00 3.66 3.33 3.00 2.66 2.33 2.00 1.66 1.33 1.00 0.66 0.00

Page 4: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

2015-2016 Course Selection Guide

Page 3

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS The Rose Tree Media Board of School Directors has established graduation requirements expressed by the following chart.

Notes: Credits are assigned based on the course hours, as expressed in Carnegie units. For example, a course which

meets one period a day all year earns 1.0 credits, whereas a course which meets one period a day for a semester earns 0.5 credits.

All students must demonstrate proficiency in standards-based Rose Tree Media assessments in order to graduate.

Special Education students may be exempted from specific requirements when, in the opinion of the IEP team, these requirements are incompatible with the students’ needs and abilities.

For more information on Community and School Service Learning, see page 4.

During the junior or senior years, students in the Class of 2016 will complete a graduation project, finishing by the end of the third quarter of senior year at the latest. All approved projects will require students to demonstrate an ability to apply, analyze, synthesize, and evaluate information and to communicate significant knowledge and under-standing. See page 7 for more details on the Senior Project.

Students occasionally opt to take additional elective course work at colleges, universities, and other institutions that are not affiliated with the Rose Tree Media School District. Should a student wish to participate in such a program and receive independent study credit that is recognized by Penncrest High School, he/she must obtain administra-tive approval prior to registration for said course. Approval is dependent upon curricular content, number of hours of instruction, and the rigor of the program as interpreted by Rose Tree Media School District guidelines.

In addition to Rose Tree Media requirements for graduation, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania now requires that students meet state expectations in order to graduate. These expectations establish four levels of performance: Advanced, Proficient, Basic, and Below Basic. Students must demonstrate performance at the Proficient level or better in Literature, Algebra, and Biology on the Keystone Exams administered through the end of grade 11. Students who do not reach Proficient will have the opportunity to remediate their performance. The Rose Tree Media School District is committed to providing its students with the opportunities, resources, and assistance to attain these standards.

CREDITS REqUIRED TO GRADUATE

Subject Area for Credits Earned Through these Departments Number of Credits

English English 4Mathematics Mathematics 3 (including Algebra & Geometry)

Science Science

3 (including Environmental Science & Biology and all three of which should be completed by the end of grade 11)

Math/Science Math/Science 1 additional credit in Math OR Science

Social Studies Social Studies 4 (including Modern America or AP United States History)

World Language World Language 1 through Level 2 (2nd year)

Electives

ArtMusicTechology & Applied Engineering Ed.Family Consumer ScienceMathmetics electivesEnglish electivesHealth and Physical Ed. electivesWorld LanguagesDCTS Program of Study

7.5 (6.5 if student needs 2 World Language)

Health & Physical Education Physical Education 2.5 (.5 PE each year, .5 Health)Community & School Service Varies Year to Year 2Graduation Project All Departments Class of 2016TOTAL CREDITS 28

Page 5: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

Penncrest High School

Page 4

GUIDELINES FOR SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY SERVICE

All students are required to participate in two school service activities and two community service activities during their four years at Penncrest. It is the expectation that students will participate in at least one service activity during each of their four

years at Penncrest. Listed below are the guidelines for school service activities and community service activities.

SCHOOL SERVICE

Penncrest co-curricular activities, including clubs, committees, musical organizations, and sports teams, meet the school service learning criteria.

A student should choose an activity or committee from among those listed at Penncrest and participate fully in the pro-gram.

Certain clubs and activities are considered to be both school service and community service. For example, all musical organizations are considered school service and community service. Check with the sponsor of the activity to deter-mine the credit you will receive for participation.

In addition to clubs, a student may receive school service credit by serving as an office aide, teacher aide, nurse’s aide; by working as a seasonal scorekeeper or concession stand worker; or by volunteering for other special projects.

Upon completion of the school service activity, a student will pick up a certification form from his/her grade level office, complete the form, have the form signed by his/her guardian and sponsor of the activity, and return to Mr. Williams.

Certification cards must be returned by the annual deadline in order to be assured credit for the current school year.

The principal or his designee must approve any exceptions to the above guidelines.

COMMUNITY SERVICE

Students may choose a community service project from a published list of opportunities. A list will be available in the grade level offices and on a bulletin board outside the cafeteria. Students should check the list periodically for updated options. Special opportunities will be presented to students through class assemblies, class sponsors, announcements, and the RTM

channel. A student may choose an alternative opportunity not published on the list. However, he/she needs to fill out a spe-

cial request form found in the grade level office. This request form should be submitted at least 6 weeks before the proposed project. The School/Community Service committee will determine the project’s validity, and the director of student learning will contact the student with the committee’s ruling. All self-selected community service opportunities need official documentation to gain final approval of the project. Official documentation includes letters on official stationary from the organization benefiting

from the project and/or certificates of participation signed by a representative sponsoring the project.

Certain Penncrest clubs and activities have a community service component. Students may check with the club spon-sor to see if the community activity meets the community service requirement. This project must be beyond what is generally expected from members of this club.

Certain clubs and activities are considered to be both school service and community service. For example, all musical organizations are considered school service and community service. Check with the sponsor of the activity to deter-mine the credit you will receive for participation.

Upon completion of the project, a student will pick up the certification card from his/her grade level office, complete the form, secure the appropriate signatures, and return the form to the appropriate grade level office. The director of student learning will then sign the certification card and award the appropriate credit.

All projects must be completed and certification forms returned to the grade level office by the announced deadline in order to be credited.

The principal or his designee must approve any exceptions to the above guidelines.

Page 6: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

2015-2016 Course Selection Guide

Page 5

GUIDELINES FOR THE SENIOR PROJECT(Class of 2016)

During the junior or senior year, each student must complete a graduation project, finishing not later than the end of the third quarter of the senior year. Students’ first option is to complete projects which represent extensions of course work under the supervision of a member of the Penncrest High School faculty. Students may choose to work outside the regular course of study under the supervision of other individuals approved by the Coordinator of Graduation Projects, Mrs. Sharon Sweeney. All approved projects will require students to demonstrate an ability to analyze, synthesize, and evaluate information and to communicate significant knowledge and understanding. Each project must yield a product in the form of a paper, exhibit, portfolio, video, model, or per-formance. The project is to be of sufficient quality as to warrant a grade of B or better.

In advising students in the completion of graduation projects, faculty are to be guided by the following expectations:

KEYSTONE EXAMS The Pennsylvania Department of Education has published information about Keystone Exams for parents and

guardians of Pennsylvania students. The pamphlet is available on the Penncrest home page.

According to PDE, “The Keystone Exams are end-of–course assessments designed to evaluate proficiency in academic content. Beginning with the class of 2017, students must demonstrate proficiency on the Algebra I, Literature, and Biology Keystone Exams to graduate. Students will be offered multiple opportunities to take the Keystones throughout their high school careers.…Pennsylvania adopted the Pennsylvania Core Standards, stan-dards aligned with expectations for success in college and the workplace. The Keystones are designed to mea-sure these standards.”

Students in Algebra I, tenth-grade English, and Biology I will take Keystone Exams. 11th graders who have not previously taken or passed Keystone exams must test in 11th grade. Keystone Exam performance becomes part of each student’s transcript. Students who fail to reach Proficiency on Keystone Exams will be offered remediation and will be required to re-test. Remediation programming will affect course schedules. Remediation programs include but are not limited to course placement and out of school programming.

Students who do not score Proficient on the Literature and/or Biology Keystone Exam at the end of 10th grade will be placed in Keystone Lab I during the fall semester of junior year. Each subject Lab will meet three days a cycle. Keystone Lab I will prepare students to re-test during the Winter Keystone window. Students who do not score Proficient in any subject by the end of 11th grade will be placed in Keystone Lab II during the fall semester of senior year. Each subject Lab will meet three days a cycle and give students an opportunity to complete the state-mandated Project-Based Assessment under the supervision of a mentor teacher.

All students will have multiple opportunities to prepare for and to successfully complete this testing requirement.

Characteristics Level 1/AP Level 2 Level 3Project should manifest achievement of these taxonomic levels of cognition

EvaluationsSynthesisAnalysisApplication

SynthesisAnalysisApplication

AnalysisApplication

Minimum length of paper or demonstration (expressed in pages or minutes)

10 8 5

Estimate of hours outside of class 25 20 15

Total number of references cited 5 5 3

Page 7: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

Penncrest High School

Page 6

GUIDELINES FOR COURSE SELECTION PROCESS The course selection process provides students with an opportunity to make informed decisions regarding their course of study for the following year. Choices related to the level of courses selected and elective courses should be made carefully and in consultation with teachers, counselors and parents. Students and parents should review the guidelines listed below. 1. Refer to the grade level pages of this Guide. Note that required courses as well as elective options are indicated. 2. Students will select courses for next year once the access window opens in their HAC accounts. Counselors will meet with

students to supervise this process.3. Students should check the descriptions of the courses they are considering. These can be found in each department’s

section in the last section of the Guide.4. To keep on pace for promotion to the next grade and for graduation, most students will need to schedule at least 6 majors

each year, plus the required minor(s).5. Ninth graders must select six major courses plus Physical Education/Study Hall.6. Students are required to list alternatives and priorities for all electives, including non-required Science and Math. Whenev-

er possible, these will be considered if it becomes necessary to roster alternative selections.7. Students will receive a verification confirming their choices adn their teacher recommendations.8. Students who do not reach Proficiency on Keystone Exams may be required to take remedial courses in lieu of study halls/

electives. Schedule changes will be made after Keystone scores are relased over the summer.9. Students who wish to take a course at a rank level higher than the one recommended may file a waiver request with their

guidance counselor. All requests must be submitted no later than March 27, 2015. Forms are available in the Guidance office.

10. Students who have difficulty or questions in planning course selections should make an appointment to see their counselor or the appropriate teacher.

11. If a student fails a sequential subject and does not adjust his roster accordingly or attend Summer School to make up the deficiency, that roster will be adjusted to accommodate the failure.

12. If difficulties arise that make it impossible for us to complete a student’s roster, we will attempt to contact the student before the close of school this year, during the summer, or when school begins.

13. Our ability to meet students’ requests for course selections depends upon the availability of staff and projected enrollments to cover these requests.

14. Students occasionally opt to take additional elective course work at colleges, universities, and other institutions that are not affiliated with the Rose Tree Media School District. Should a student wish to participate in such a program and receive independent study credit that is recognized by Penncrest High School, he/she must obtain administrative approval prior to registration for said course. Approval is dependent upon curricular content, number of hours of instruction, and the rigor of the program as interpreted by Rose Tree Media School District guidelines.

COURSE SELECTION CHANGES Students are expected to make considered choices during the course selection process. Any student who wishes to “waive” into a course at a level other than the one recommended should obtain a waiver form from the Guidance office to initiate the waiver process. All waiver requests are due by March 27, 2015. Once a student “waives” up, the student will be expected to remain in the selected course. Each family will receive a course verification sheet confirming the courses the student selected and the teacher recommendations. Any student who wishes to change a choice must do so through the Guidance office. ALL requests for any change must be received by March 27, 2015. Requests received after this deadline will be subject to enrollment availability in the selected class.During the summer, student schedules will be produced. Although every attempt will be made to honor student selections, please be aware that it may not be possible to schedule students to all of their first choice alternatives. In some cases it may even be even necessary to consider different choices from those selected. Once students have accesed their schedules in August, only changes resulting from demonstrated scheduling errors or those initiated by teachers, counselors, and/or the administration will be made. Such changes will made in accordance with administrative approval. On those rare occasions when it is deemed necessary for a student to withdraw from a course after the first marking period (in a year long course) or after the midpoint of the first quarter in a semester course, the report card and transcript will reflect W/P if the student is passing at the time or W/F if the student is failing. A student may only withdraw from a course with administrative approval.

Page 8: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

2015-2016 Course Selection Guide

Page 7

WHAT COLLEGES EXPECT: A Summary of Preparing for College The Academic Deans of twelve highly competitive colleges in Pennsylvania have issued a joint statement on the ways students should prepare for higher education. A summary of this statement appears below. The full text appears in the Penncrest College Prospectus.

HABITS OF MIND. How students learn is equally as important as what they learn. Key habits of mind for success in college include:curiosityindependence, clarity, and incisiveness of thoughttolerance for ambiguityability to solve problemswillingness to work hardability to manage time

WHAT STUDENTS SHOULD LEARN. Students need a thorough grounding in six specific subject areas. It is assumed that writing plays a critical role in every subject area. Students who expect to succeed at the college level should take advantage of every opportunity to improve their writing.

The Arts. Music, theater, and studio art enrich our appreciation and understanding of the world. Students should take at least two semesters of courses in the arts.

World Languages. To prepare to live and work in a multicultural society, knowledge of a second language is an important gateway to understanding peoples and cultures other than our own. Students should pursue a second language through the third or fourth-year level and through senior year.

History. Colleges expect incoming students to understand the importance of the past in shaping and explaining the present. At a minimum, students should devote four full-year courses to the study of history.

Literature. Works of literature give eloquent and memorable expression to the major problems of life. Students should take four years of literature courses which provide them familiarity with a broad range of literary genres and styles, from Western culture and beyond.

Mathematics. Quantitative analysis is crucial to understanding the complexities of the modern world. Students should go as far in mathematics as their secondary-school curriculum permits.

Science. Familiarity with the basic sciences—earth science, biology, chemistry, and physics—has become a practical necessity in today’s world. Students should endeavor to take three year-long laboratory courses in the basic sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Environmental) and an additional course at an advanced level.

Few students will be able to take all the courses recommended, but all should elect the strongest possible academic program. Students who find success in a program such as the one described above should have little difficulty succeeding in college.

REqUIREMENTS TO PLAY DIVISION I OR II ATHLETICSColleges also set additional standards for athletes. The NCAA is an association of colleges that makes certain rules governing athletic eligibility, recruiting, and financial aid. Failure to follow these rules may affect your eligibility for intercollegiate sports. The most recent NCAA Guide for the College-Bound Student Athlete is available online to help you and your family understand these rules. For example, student-athletes must:

successfully complete a minimum of 16 credits for Division I as well as 16 credits for Divison II in eligible core subject areas.

achieve an SAT/ACT total score for initial eligibility based on a sliding scale in direct relationship to their unweighted GPA, as outlined in the NCAA Guide

graduate from high school.

If student-athletes have any questions about NCAA requirements, they should consult with their counselors prior to selecting cours-es. Also, an extensive website at http://web1.ncaa.org/ECWR2/NCAA_EMS/ncaa.jsp has many links to explain the requirements and deadlines for eligibility.This website is linked from students’ Naviance home page.

Page 9: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

Penncrest High School

Page 8

2015-2016 Course Selection Guide

NCAA ELIGIBILITY CENTER QUICK REFERENCE GUIDE

Core Courses: (16)

Initial full-time collegiate enrollment before August 1, 2016: o Sixteen (16) core courses are required (see chart below for subject-area requirements).

Initial full-time collegiate enrollment on or after August 1, 2016: o Sixteen (16) core courses are required (see chart below for subject-area requirements).

Ten (10) core courses completed before the seventh semester; seven (7) of the 10 must be in English, math or natural/physical science. These courses/grades are "locked in" at start of the seventh semester (cannot be repeated for

grade-point average [GPA] improvement to meet initial-eligibility requirements for competition). o Students who do not meet core-course progression requirements may still be eligible to receive athletics

aid and practice in the initial year of enrollment by meeting academic redshirt requirements (see below).

Test Scores: (ACT/SAT)

Students must present a corresponding test score and core-course GPA on the sliding scale (see Page No. 2). o SAT: critical reading and math sections.

Best subscore from each section is used to determine the SAT combined score for initial eligibility. o ACT: English, math, reading and science sections.

Best subscore from each section is used to determine the ACT sum score for initial eligibility. All ACT and SAT attempts before initial full-time collegiate enrollment may be used for initial eligibility. Enter 9999 during ACT or SAT registration to ensure the testing agency reports your score

directly to the NCAA Eligibility Center. Test scores on transcripts will not be used.

Core Grade-Point Average:

Only core courses that appear on the high school's List of NCAA Courses on the NCAA Eligibility Center's website (www.eligibilitycenter.org) will be used to calculate your core-course GPA. Use this list as a guide.

Initial full-time collegiate enrollment before August 1, 2016: o Students must present a corresponding test score (ACT sum score or SAT combined score) and core-course

GPA (minimum 2.000) on Sliding Scale A (see Page No. 2). o Core-course GPA is calculated using the best 16 core courses that meet subject-area requirements.

Initial full-time collegiate enrollment on or after August 1, 2016: o Students must present a corresponding test score (ACT sum score or SAT combined score) and core-course

GPA (minimum 2.300) on Sliding Scale B (see Page No. 2). o Core-course GPA is calculated using the best 16 core courses that meet both progression (10 before

seventh semester; seven in English, math or science; "locked in") and subject-area requirements.

NCAA Division I Initial-Eligibility Requirements

DIVISION ICore-Course Requirement (16)

4 years of English3 years of math (Algebra I or higher)2 years of natural/physical science

(1 year of lab if offered)1 year of additional English, math or

natural/physical science2 years of social science4 years of additional courses (any

area above, foreign language or comparative religion/philosophy)

DIVISION I – 2016 Qualifier Requirements

*Athletics aid, practice, and competition 16 core courses

o Ten (10) core courses completed before the start ofseventh semester. Seven (7) of the 10 must be in English, math or natural/physical science. "Locked in" for core-course

GPA calculation. Corresponding test score (ACT

sum score or SAT combined score) and core-course GPA (minimum 2.300) on Sliding Scale B (see Page No. 2).

Graduate from high school.

DIVISION I – 2016 Academic Redshirt Requirements*Athletics aid and practice (no competition) 16 core courses

o No grades/credits "locked in"(repeated courses after the seventh semester begins may be used for initial eligibility).

Corresponding test score (ACT sum score or SAT combined score) and core-course GPA (minimum 2.000) on Sliding Scale B (see Page No. 2).

Graduate from high school.

Page 10: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

2015-2016 Course Selection Guide

Page 9

Penncrest High School

NCAA ELIGIBILITY CENTER QUICK REFERENCE GUIDE

Core Courses Division II currently requires 16 core courses. See the chart below. Beginning August 1, 2018, to become a full or partial qualifier for Division II, all college-bound

student-athletes must complete the 16 core-course requirement. Test Scores Division II currently requires a minimum SAT score of 820 or an ACT sum score of 68.

Beginning August 1, 2018, Division II will use a sliding scale to match test scores and core-course grade-point averages (GPA). The sliding scale for those requirements is shown on Page No. 2 of this sheet.

The SAT score used for NCAA purposes includes only the critical reading and math sections. The writing section of the SAT is not used.

The ACT score used for NCAA purposes is a sum of the following four sections: English, mathematics, reading and science.

When you register for the SAT or ACT, use the NCAA Eligibility Center code of 9999 to ensure all SAT and ACT scores are reported directly to the NCAA Eligibility Center from the testing agency. Test scores that appear on transcripts will not be used.

Grade-Point Average Be sure to look at your high school’s List of NCAA Courses on the NCAA Eligibility Center's website

(www.eligibilitycenter.org). Only courses that appear on your school's approved List of NCAA Courses will be used in the calculation of the core GPA. Use the list as a guide.

The current Division II core GPA requirement is a minimum of 2.000. Division II core GPA required to be eligible for competition on or after August 1, 2018, is 2.200 (corresponding test-score requirements are listed on the Sliding Scale on Page No. 2 of this sheet).

The minimum Division II core GPA required to receive athletics aid and practice as a partial qualifier on or after August 1, 2018, is 2.000 (corresponding test-score requirements are listed on the Sliding Scale on Page No. 2 of this sheet).

Remember, the NCAA core GPA is calculated using NCAA core courses only.

DIVISION II 16 Core Courses

3 years of English. 2 years of mathematics (Algebra I

or higher). 2 years of natural/physical science

(1 year of lab if offered by high school).

3 years of additional English, mathematics or natural/physical science.

2 years of social science. 4 years of additional courses (from

any area above, foreign language or comparative religion/philosophy).

Division II Initial-Eligibility Requirements

Page 11: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

Penncrest High School

Page 10

AP TESTS AND COURSESCourses in the Penncrest Course Guide with a prefix of “AP” prepare students to take Advanced Placement courses in those subject areas (AP stands for “Advanced Placement”). The information below explains the AP courses and tests in greater detail.

What’s the difference between the SAT’s and AP? Educational Testing Service (ETS) offers a variety of tests to assist stu-dents and college admissions’ staffs in making decisions about admissions. The Scholastic Aptitude Tests (SAT’s) and the AP Tests are important measures of a student’s readiness for college. The following chart summarizes important differences among these three tests.

Which AP tests does ETS offer? Art History, Art Studio, Biology, Calculus, Chemistry, Computer Science, Economics (Micro & Macro), English, Environmental Science, French, German, Government and Politics, History, Human Geography, Latin, Music Theory, Physics, Psychology, Spanish, and Statistics.

Which Penncrest courses in 2015-2016 will follow the AP curriculum specified by ETS? English: AP Language and Composition, AP Literature and Composition Math: AP Calculus AB, AP Calculus BC, AP Computer Science A, AP Statistics Science: AP Chemistry, AP Physics C—Mechanics, AP Biology, AP Environmental Science, AP Physics I Social Studies: AP History–United States, AP History–European, AP Government & Politics, AP Micro and Macro Economics World Languages: AP French Language, AP Spanish Language

Which other Penncrest courses in 2015-2016 will prepare students to take AP exams? A few other courses prepare students well to take AP Exams, as follows: Art: Art Major III, 1 Ceramics

What are the benefits of taking AP exams and AP courses? Many colleges and universities offer credits for AP scores of 5 and 4 (and sometimes 3), thus enabling students to proceed sooner to advanced course work and saving money on tuition. Even more colleges offer placement for AP scores of 5, 4, or 3, thus helping students avoid introductory survey courses and possibly exempting them from distributive requirements. Regardless of the score a student earns, sitting for an AP exam provides valuable practice for college exams. Students who take AP exams prior to their senior year have a very impressive credential for their college applications. Even if students choose not to take the AP exams, AP courses offer a challenging academic and intellectual environment for learning, and they are seen in a favorable light by all selection committees making admissions de-cisions. These courses are roughly equivalent to college freshman-year courses. How and when do I take an AP exam? It is best to take an AP Exam while the material is still fresh in your mind. AP Exams are given at Penncrest High School over a two-week period in May. Students are excused from class in order to take each three-hour exam. Payment is due in March.

SAT - ReasoningPurpose: To predict how well

students will do in freshman year of college

Abilities or Skills Tested: Essay writing, grammar, usage, word choice, criti-cal reading, sentence-lev-el reading, numbers and operations; algebra and functions; geometry; sta-tistics, probability, and data analysis

Used by Colleges To: Evalu-ate students’ aptitudes for college-level work

Format: Seven sections

Duration: 3 hours, 35 minutes

Scores: 200-800 each

ACTPurpose: To measure aca-

demic achievement in specific subject areas.

Abilities or Skills Tested: En-glish, Math, Reading and Science

Used by Colleges For: Ad-mission, Talent Iden-tification, Academic Advising, Freshman Course Placement Decisions, Awarding Course Credit (es-pecially in English and Math), Awarding Scholarships (not sole criteria)

Format: Multiple choice, Writ-ing

Duration: approximately 3 hours

Scores: Based on number of right answers, no penalty for guessing, each subject area is scored on a scale of 1 - 36.

AP TestsPurpose: To enable students to pursue college-level studies while still in high school and to see how they compare to college academic standards.Abilities or Skills Tested: specific content knowledge and skills in discrete coursesUsed by College To: Offer students either credits or placement or bothFormat : Mult ip le choice and performance tasks (e.g., essays, problem solving)Duration: 3 hours eachScores:5 - Very Well Qualified4 - Well Qualified3 - Qualified2 - Possibly Qualified1 - No Recommendation

SAT - Subject TestsPurpose: To measure knowl-

edge in particular sub-ject areas

Abilities or Skills Tested: knowledge of English, History/Social Stud-ies, Math, Science, or Language

Used by Colleges To: Ascer-tain students’ levels of knowledge and to assist in placement and course selection

Format: Multiple choice

Duration: 1 hour each

Scores: 200-800 each

Page 12: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

2015-2016 Course Selection Guide

Page 11

GIFTED PROGRAMStudents who have been identified as “academically gifted” may elect to participate in a variety of regular and special curricular and co-curricular programs designed to meet the needs of academically-talented students. The following options will be available during the 2015-2016 school year:NINTH GRADE GIFTED SEMINAR - The ninth grade gifted seminar will allow students to meet in small groups each week to consider and discuss in a shared inquiry process a range of broad-based themes. Students may be expected to read assigned selections prior to participating in the seminar. Grades will not be issued, but students are expected to attend their selected seminar. ENRICHMENT ACTIVITIES - Students may choose from among the many Penncrest co-curricular programs which provide chal-lenging enrichment opportunities. In addition, students will be encouraged to participate in special planned events which may occur. Programs may run off-site and on non-school hours. OTHER - Students may choose to take advantage of challenge for credit, independent study, and other individualized program models described in the course guide. Students receive further opportunities to enrich study skills through an inquiry based re-search and presentation project. The project fosters deeper understanding of course material or individual interests.

INDEPENDENT STUDY FOR CREDITPenncrest students may apply for credit for independent study work done outside of the regular school program. Approved programs of independent study must require substantial study, attain the rigor and skill level of comparable Penncrest courses, and require achievement of a standard level of performance according to valid and reliable assessments of knowledge and skill. Independent study courses will appear on the student’s transcript under the heading of “Independent Study: {name of study}” and will be graded on a pass/fail basis or in some cases with a letter grade Letter grades will be included in the student’s GPA but will not be used in the calculation of class rank. Each independent study course earns 1.0 or 0.5 credits, and students may use the independent study option to earn a total of 2.0 credits over the course of their high school careers. All costs associated with the independent study must be borne by the student and his or her family. This year independent study options will include student completion of pre-approved online courses. Students interested in pursuing an independent study course should see their counselors to initiate the process and complete an approval request form. Prior approval for Independent Study is required.

ACADEMIC SUPPORT COURSESAchievement Center#1720The Achievement Center course is designed to assist selected students who have demonstrated a need for support in academic areas and/or in organization and study skills. Students will receive a grade based on their class performance and individual work. The class will meet daily for full credit as a non-ranked course. Students may attend on a partial-cycle or partial-year basis for partial course credit. In order to be eligible for Achievement Center, students must be recommended by their case manager, guidance counselor, an administrator, or by the Student Support Team.

Keystone Lab IAlgebra Course #1701Biology Course # 1702Literature Course #1703Students who do not score Proficient on Literature and/or Biology Keystone Exam at the end of 10th grade will be placed in Keystone Lab I during the fall semester of junior year. Each subject Lab will meet three days a cycle and will be offered at .25 unranked credit. Keystone Lab I will prepare students to re-test during the Winter Keystone window.

Keystone Lab IIAlgebra Course #1711 Biology Course #1712 Literature Course #1713Students who do not score Proficient in any subject by the end of 11th grade will be placed in Keystone Lab II during the fall semester of senior year. Each subject Lab will meet three days a cycle and give students an opportunity to complete the state-mandated Project-Based Assessment under the supervision of a mentor teacher. Each subject Lab will be offered at .25 unranked credit.

DUAL ENROLLMENT PROGRAMThe Penncrest Dual Enrollment Program allows students to earn credits simultaneously at the high school and post-secondary levels for courses taken at local colleges and universities. Penncrest enjoys partnerships with Penn State University/Brandywine, Neumann University, and Delaware County Community College. Students are expected to meet the eligibility requirements for each respective university. Students must provide their own transporta-tion. All dual enrollment courses will earn 1.0 credit at Penncrest. Dual enrollment courses are calculated towards a student’s grade point average but will not be used in the calculation of class rank. Students are expected to maintain a minimum of 5.0 Penncrest credits in order to maintain full time status. The course/grade will appear on the Penncrest transcript. Students interested in the Dual Enrollment Program should see their guidance counselor.

Page 13: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

Penncrest High School

Page 12

CAREER EXPLORATION OPPORTUNITIESCAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION

The Rose Tree Media School District is a participating member of the Delaware County Technical Schools (DCTS). Penncrest sophomores, juniors, and seniors may enroll in a variety of courses at the technical schools. Courses offered at the technical schools are recognized as full-year elective offerings and count towards graduation. Students will earn rank level 2 credit. All students taking DCTS courses will also take Physical Education (earc year)and Health (during sophomore year). Students who successfully complete their coursework are award-ed two credits per year and remain on track to graduate with their original class, as long as all other graduation requirements are fulfilled.Penncrest students who are considering technical school are encouraged to attend the information session at Penncrest and to consult with Mrs. Graham to discuss their choices. Students are reminded to begin this process during course selection. Students should consider their vocational selection carefully. Certain program offerings lead toward a license in the chosen area of study, and there are stringent requirements for attendance and competency. Upon graduation, students possess the qualifications to attend a post-secondary institution or enter the workforce.All prospective students must complete an application which includes a short essay. The application is forwarded to the administrative staff at the technical school for review. The admissions committee reviews transcripts, attendance patterns, and discipline records. Students are informed of the committee decisions through Mrs. Graham.The students who are accepted at either the Folcroft, Aston or Marple campuses attend Penncrest for 4 periods to complete required core courses: English, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies. Physical Education and Health classes are delivered to students by DCTS faculty. Students are dismissed from Penncrest at 11:00 and transported to their technical school campuses. All transportation is provided by the school district.

Delaware County Technical School* courses:

Interested students should contact Mrs. Graham for a technical school course guide.

MEDICAL CAREERSThis program, offered through Delaware County Technical Schools, is for seniors who are interested in attending college to prepare for a career in health care. It has been nationally recognized by the Life Science Career Alliance and achieves 100% college placement. This year long program is offered at 1 of 6 area hospitals. Students attend class daily at their assigned hospital and the curriculum of-fers a combination of lecture, patient care skills, and clinical rotations. Students benefit from career-based presentations from an array of health care professionals including: nures, physicians, physicians assistants, physical therapists,medical technologists, and pharma-cists. The curriculum includes anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, medical terminology, safety, infection control and medical law and ethics. Students graduate from the program with a solid understanding of the integral relations fof the hospital team and a vision of their potential role in the health care industry. This is a rank level 1 course for which students earn 3 credits. Interested students should see Mrs.Graham for additional information about the application process.

WORK RELEASESeniors may leave school early in order to go to work under some conditions. Most importantly, they must be taking enough credits in order to graduate. No credits will be issued for work release experiences. A student must indicate Work Release on his or her course selection card and may not opt for Work Release after the normal add-drop period. Students must provide appropriate documents in order to obtain the Work Release privilege: a letter from parents indicating permission to leave school early and a letter from an employer on company letterhead indicating work hours that require leaving school early. Students must provide their own transportation. If students need to take the PSSA Retests, they must change their work schedule on those days.ANY WORK RELEASE STUDENT WHO FAILS ONE OR MORE COURSES IN A MARKING PERIOD WILL FORFEIT THE WORK RELEASE PRIVILEGE AND WILL BE SCHEDULED TO A STUDY HALL. THESE STUDENTS’ GRADES WILL BE REVIEWED THE FOLLOWING MARKING PERIOD AND IF THE STUDENT IS THEN PASSING ALL HIS/HER COURSES, THE WORK RELEASE PRIVILEGE WILL BE RESTORED.

Aston CampusBusiness Administration and Technical Support Building Trades Carpentry Commercial Art/Graphic Design Computer Networking Systems Cosmetology Culinary Arts & Hospitality Dental Hygiene HVAC (heating, air conditioning and refrigeration) Industrial & Residential Electricity Landscape & Greenhouse Operations

Folcroft CampusAutomotive Technology Building Trades Collision Repair Technology Cosmetology Culinary Arts & Hospitality Early Childhood Education General Constrction Health Occupations Materials & Inventory Control Medical Careers

Marple Campus Culinary

Page 14: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

2015-2016 Course Selection Guide

Page 13

Your GPA Counts in 9th Grade

Please note, incoming 9th graders, that your Grade Point Average (GPA) begins to accumulate the very first day you are at Penncrest and continues to accumulate throughout your four years of high school. A poor GPA in 9th grade will have negative effects in subsequent years. The chart below illustrates the difficulty of overcoming a poor start in high school.

GPA for 9th GPA for 10th GPA for 11th Cumulative GPA that grade courses grade courses grade courses colleges will see 2.00 2.00 3.00 2.33 2.00 2.50 3.50 2.67 3.00 3.00 3.50 3.16 3.00 3.25 3.50 3.25

ELECTIVES (YR=YEAR LONG COURSE/1 CREDIT......SEM=SEMESTER COURSE/0.5 CREDIT)

Course numbers preceding titles indicate rank level(s) at which course is offered

ART1 or 2 Art I (YR)2 or 3 Drawing (SEM)2 or 3 Painting (SEM)2 or 3 Ceramics A & B (SEM)

BUSINESS EDUCATION2 or 3 Intro to Business (YR)2 Computer Apps for the 21st Century (YR)

ENGLISH2 TV Production I (YR)

MATH/COMPUTER SCIENCE2 Java Programming (YR)2 Webpage Design (YR)

MUSIC**1 or 2 Concert Band (YR) **1 or 2 Concert Choir (YR)**1 or 2 String Ensemble (YR)1 or 2 Upscale Singers (YR) 2 Music Tech A (SEM)2 Music Tech B (SEM)

***Students must audition for placement in per-forming ensembles.

SPECIAL EDUCATION4 Linguistics (YR)4 Occupational Knowledge (YR) 4 Success in Reading (YR)4 Wilson Reading

TECHNOLOGY & ENGINEERINGEDUCATION 2 Foundations of Technology (YR)

WORLD LANGUAGESStudents may begin the study of an additional language and/or continue their studies in Chi-nese, French, Latin, or Spanish.

VOCATIONAL EDUCATIONStudents may elect off-site programs.

ENGLISH 1, 2, or 3 English 9

SOCIAL STUDIES1, 2, or 3 Global Studies

MATH1, 2, or 3 Algebra I1 Geometry1 Algebra II

PHYSICAL EDUCATIONGrade 9 PE required (SEM)

WORLD LANGUAGES ** 1 or 2 Beginner Chinese, French, Latin, or

Spanish1 or 2 Advanced Beginner French or Spanish1 or 2 Elementary French or Spanish(Students must successfully complete an Advanced, Beginner, or Elementary level course to satisfy the World Language graduation requirement.)

SCIENCE1, 2, OR 3 Environmental Science

9TH GRADE COURSE OFFERINGSFRESHMAN CORE COURSE OFFERINGS

Page 15: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

Penncrest High School

Page 14

10TH GRADE COURSE OFFERINGSSOPHOMORE CORE COURSE OFFERINGS

ENGLISH1, 2, or 3 English 10

SOCIAL STUDIES 1, 2, or 3 Early America andEuropean History

AP United States History*AP European History*

(*Prerequisites met and teacher recommenda-tion required)

MATH 1, 2, or 3 Geometry1 or 2 Algebra IIAP Statistics

PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND HEALTHGrade 10 Health and PE required

WORLD LANGUAGES 1 Intermediate French or Spanish1 or 2 Elementary Chinese, French, Latin or Spanish1 or 2 Advanced Beginner French or Spanish

(Students must successfully complete an Ad-vanced Beginner, or Elementary level course to satisfy the World Language requirement.)

SCIENCE 1, 2, or 3 Biology

MATH/COMPUTER SCIENCEAP Computer Science A (YR)2 Java Programming (YR)2 Webpage Design( YR)

MUSIC**1 or 2 Concert Band (YR)**1 or 2 Concert Choir (YR)**1 or 2 Strings Ensemble (YR)**1 Ambassador Choir (YR)**1 Wind Ensemble1 or 2 Upscale Singers (YR)2 Music Tech A (SEM)2 Music Tech B (SEM)2 Music Tech CAP Music Theory (YR)

***Students must audition for placement in performing ensembles

PHYSICAL EDUCATION2 OR 3 PE Majors I (YR)

SCIENCEAP Environmental Science*AP Physics IAP Chemistry

SPECIAL EDUCATION 4 Success in Reading I & II(YR)4 Linguistics I & II(YR) 4 SCANS or Occupational Information(YR)4 Wilson Reading

TECHNOLOGY & ENGINEERINGEDUCATION2 Foundations of Technology (YR)1 or 2 Architectural Design and Residential Construction (YR)1 or 2 Engineering Design and Manufacturing1 or 2 Engineering Design and Man II1 or 2 Transportation, Robotics and Aviation (YR) 1 or 2 Visual Design I

WORLD LANGUAGESStudents may begin the study of an addition-al language and/or continue their studies in Chinese, French, Latin, or Spanish.

VOCATIONAL EDUCATIONStudents may elect off-site programs .

ART1 or 2 Art I (YR)1 or 2 Art II (YR)2 or 3 Drawing (SEM)2 or 3 Painting (SEM) 2 or 3 Ceramics A and/or B (SEM) 1 or 2 Advanced Ceramics (YR)2 or 3 Mixed Media (SEM)2 or 3 Intro to Metal Work & Jewelry (SEM)2 or 3 Advanced Metal Work & Jewelry (SEM)

BUSINESS EDUCATION 2 Accounting I (YR) 2 Computer Apps for the 21st Century2 or 3 Intro to Business (YR)

ENGLISH2 TV Production I (YR) 1 or 2 TV Production II (YR) 1 or 2 SAT Boot Camp (SEM) 1 or 2 Women in Literature (SEM)

FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCE 3 Advanced Food and Nutrition I (SEM)3 Advanced Food and Nutrition II (SEM)

ELECTIVES (YR=YEAR LONG COURSE/1 CREDIT......SEM=SEMESTER COURSE/0.5 CREDIT)

Course numbers preceding titles indicate rank level(s) at which course is offered

Page 16: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

2015-2016 Course Selection Guide

Page 15

ENGLISHAP Language & Comp A & B1 American Writers/Composition 2 American Writers/Composition3 Forms of Literature/Composition

SOCIAL STUDIESAP Economics, European History, Government/ Politics, and United States History1, 2, or 3 Modern America

***Students must complete either a Modern America course or AP United States History to satisfy the graduation requirement. AP United States History may be completed junior or senior year.

11TH GRADE COURSE OFFERINGSJUNIOR CORE COURSE OFFERINGS

MATH1 or 2 Pre-Calculus 1,2, or 3 Algebra II

PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND HEALTHGrade 11 PE required

WORLD LANGUAGES***1 Advanced French or Spanish1 Intermediate Chinese or Latin

*** Students may be enrolled in more than one language or at other levels.

SCIENCE***AP Chemistry, AP Physic I, AP Physics C, AP Biology, and AP Environmental Science1 or 2 Chemistry2 Physics2 or 3 Integrated Science

*** Students who only plan to take 3 years of science should complete the requirement by the end of junior year.

ART1 or 2 Art I (YR)1 or 2 Art II, III (YR)2 or 3 Drawing (SEM)2 or 3 Painting (SEM)2 or 3 Ceramics A or B (SEM)1 or 2 Advanced Ceramics (YR)2 or 3 Mixed Media (SEM)2 or 3 Intro to Metal Work and Jewelry (SEM)2 or 3 Advanced Metal Work and Jewelry (SEM)

BUSINESS2 Accounting I (YR)1 Advanced Accounting (YR)1, 2 or 3 Personal Financial Management (SEM)1, 2 or 3 Marketing & Sports/Entertainment Mgmt (SEM)2 Computer Apps for the 21st Century

ENGLISH1 or 2 Humanities (YR)1 or 2 Oral Communications (YR)1 or 2 Theater Lab (SEM)2 TV Production I (YR)1 or 2 TV Production II (YR)

1 or 2 SAT Boot Camp (SEM) 1 or 2 Women In Linterature (SEM)

FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCE3 Advanced Food and Nutrition I (SEM)3 Advanced Food and Nutrition II (SEM)2 Psychology of Relationships (FIRST SEM) 2 or 3 Child Development (SECOND SEM)

MATH/COMPUTER SCIENCEAP Computer Science A (YR)1 Advanced Computer Science (YR)2 Java Programming (YR)2 Webpage Design( YR)AP Statistics

MUSIC**1 or 2 Concert Band (YR)**1 or 2 Concert Choir (YR)**1 or 2 String Ensemble (YR**1 Wind Ensemble (YR)**1 Ambassador Choir (YR)1 or 2 Upscale Singers AP Music Theory (YR)2 Music Tech A (SEM)2 Music Tech B (SEM)2 Music Tech C

***Students must audition for placement in per-forming ensembles.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION2 or 3 PE Majors I (YR)2 or 3 PE Majors II (YR)2 Coaching & Team Leadership (YR)

SCIENCEStudents may elect an additional Science course.

SOCIAL STUDIESStudents may elect an additional Social Studies course.

SPECIAL EDUCATION4 Success in Reading I & II4 Linguistics I & II4 Academic Enrichment4 SCANS or Occupational Knowledge 4 Wilson Reading

TECHNOLOGY & ENGINEERING EDUCATION2 Foundations of Technology (YR)1 or 2 Architectural Design and Residential Construction (YR)1 or 2 Engineering Design and Manufacturing1 or 2 Engineering Design and Man II1 or 2 Information Communications Tech (YR)1 or 2 Transportation, Robotics and Aviation (YR)1 or 2 Publications1 or 2 Visual Design I1 or 2 Visual Design II

WORLD LANGUAGESStudents may begin the study of an addition-al language and/or continue their studies in Chinese, French, Latin, or Spanish.

1 or 2 Mythology in the Classical World (SEM)1 or 2 Francophone Culture, Conversation, and Cuisine (SEM)

VOCATIONAL EDUCATIONStudents may elect off-site programs.

Course numbers preceding titles indicate rank level(s) at which course is offered

ELECTIVES (YR) = YEAR LONG COURSE/1 CREDIT/ (SEM) = SEMESTER COURSE/.5 CREDIT

Page 17: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

Penncrest High School

Page 16

12TH GRADE COURSE OFFERINGSSENIOR CORE COURSE OFFERINGS

ENGLISHAP Literature Comp A & B1 or 2 World Writers and Creative Writing or Advanced Communications3 Themes of Reading and Communication

SOCIAL STUDIES***AP Economics, European History, Government /Politics, and Unted States History1 Philosophy/International Relations 2 Economics/Government2 International Relations/Philosophy 3 Civics: Government and Economics in Action***Students who have not taken AP United States History or Modern America must com-plete one of these courses in the senior year.

MATHAP Calculus AB or AP Calculus BC 1 or 2 Pre-Calculus1 Calculus2 Calculus/2 Statistics2 or 3 Algebra II3 Functions, Statistics, and Trigonometry

PHYSICAL EDUCATION Grade 12 PE is required

WORLD LANGUAGES***AP French or SpanishAdvanced Chinese or Latin *** Students may be enrolled in more than one language or at other levels.

SCIENCE***AP Chemistry, AP Physics I, AP Physics C AP Biology, and AP Environmental Science1 or 2 Chemistry2 Physics1 or 2 Biology II3 STS

ART1 or 2 Art I (YR)1 or 2 Art II, III (YR)2 or 3 Drawing (SEM)2 or 3 Painting (SEM)2 or 3 Ceramics A or B (SEM)1 or 2 Advanced Ceramics (YR)2 or 3 Mixed Media (SEM)2 or 3 Intro to Metal Work and Jewelry (SEM)2 or 3 Advanced Metal Work and Jewelry (SEM)1 or 2 Portfolio Prep (YR)

BUSINESS2 Accounting I (YR)1 Advanced Accounting (YR)1, 2 or 3 Personal Financial Mgmt (SEM)1, 2 or 3 Marketing & Sports/Entertainment Mgmt (SEM)2 Computer Apps for the 21st Century(YR)

ENGLISH1 or 2 Humanities (YR)1 or 2 Oral Communications (YR)1 or 2 Theater Lab (SEM)2 TV Production I (YR)1 or 2 TV Production II (YR)1 or 2 Women in Literature (SEM)

FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCE3 Advanced Food and Nutrition I (SEM)3 Advanced Food and Nutrition II (SEM)2 Psychology of Relationships (FIRST SEM) 2 or 3 Child Development (SECOND SEM)

ELECTIVES (YR) = YEAR LONG COURSE/1 CREDIT/ (SEM) = SEMESTER COURSE/.5 CREDITMATH/COMPUTER SCIENCEAP StatisticsAP Computer Science A (YR)1 Advanced Computer Science (YR)2 Java Programming (YR)2 Webpage Design( YR)

MUSIC **1 or 2 Concert Band (YR)**1 or 2 Concert Choir (YR)**1 or 2 String Ensemble (YR**1 Wind Ensemble (YR)**1 Ambassador Choir (YR)2 Upscale Singers (YR)AP Music Theory (YR)2 Music Tech A (SEM)2 Music Tech B (SEM)2 Music Tech C

***Students must audition for placement in per-forming ensembles.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION2 or 3 PE Majors I (YR)2 or 3 PE Majors II (YR)2 or 3 PE Majors III (YR)2 Coaching & Team Leadership (YR)

SCIENCEStudents may elect an additional Science course.

SOCIAL STUDIES1 or 2 Sociology (SEM)1 or 2 The American Civil War(SEM)

SPECIAL EDUCATION4 Success in Reading I & II4 Linguistics I & II4 SCANS or Occupational Knowledge 4 Wilson Reading

TECHNOLOGY & ENGINEERING EDUCATION2 Foundations of Technology (YR)1 or 2 Architectural Design and Residential Construction (YR)1 or 2 Engineering Design and Manufacturing1 or 2 Engineering Design and Man II1 or 2 Transportation, Robotics and Aviation (YR)1 or 2 Publications1 Engineering by Design1 or 2 Visual Design I1 or 2 Visual Design II

WORLD LANGUAGESStudents may begin the study of an additional language and/or continue their studies in Chi-nese, French, Latin, or Spanish.

1 or 2 Mythology in the Classical World (SEM)1 or 2 Francophone Culture, Conversation, and Cuisine (SEM)

VOCATIONAL EDUCATIONStudents may elect off-site programs.

Course numbers preceding titles indicate rank level(s) at which course is offered

Page 18: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

2015-2016Course Descriptions

Page 19: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

Penncrest High School

Page 18

Art I (5 periods, full year) 1 or 2 None Ceramics – A (1 semester) 2 or 3 None 9, 10, 11, 12 Ceramics – B (1 semester) 2 or 3 Ceramics - A Drawing (1 semester) 2 or 3 None Painting (1 semester) 2 or 3 None Art II 1 or 2 Art I Art III 1 or 2 Art II Portfolio Preparation (12th grade only) 1 or 2 Art Teacher Recommendation only 10, 11, 12 Advanced Ceramics 1 or 2 Ceramics - B Intro to Metalwork & Jewelry – (1 semester) 2 or 3 None Advanced Metalwork & Jewelry (1 semester) 2 or 3 Intro to Metalwork & Jewelry Mixed Media (1 semester) 2 or 3 None

Course Title Indicators: Rank Level AP Course Course Title Placement of Course in a Series (if applicable) Course #Example: 1 AP Art Major III 0405

Graduation Requirements: Students may use Art courses to fulfill graduation requirements for Fine and Practical Arts or Electives.

ART COURSESAt a Glance

Building Coordinator: Ms. Concetta Mattioni (610-627-6236)

The art program at Penncrest High School offers courses in several areas including: Drawing, Painting, Mixed Media, Metalwork & Jewelry, Ceramics and Art Major. The curriculum is designed to serve two groups of students; those who wish to experience an art course to supplement their education and those who wish to seriously study a particular discipline. The introductory courses (Drawing, Painting, Ceramics A and B, Mixed Media, Metalwork & Jewelry A and Art I) are appropriate for the first category of student. For those students who may wish to pursue a career in the visual arts (painting, sculpture, graphic design, interior design, architecture, etc.) the art major sequence including Art I, Art II, Art III and Portfolio Preparation provide the intensive training needed to gain acceptance into a college art program. Advanced Ceramics and Advanced Met-alwork & Jewelry are available for students who wish to study these disciplines in depth.

2 ART I (9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th grades) Course #0401Explore the richness of art in this introductory class for students entering the art major program. Through presentations, discus-sions, and assignments, students will receive a firm foundation in the elements and principles of art and design. Projects will introduce students to many different genres and media including drawing, painting, printmaking, color and design. Observational drawing skills, as well as creative thinking will be emphasized and developed in this year-long course. Learning will take place through art history, criticism and art production.Students are expected to complete all classroom and home-work studio projects, chapter quizzes, monthly art reports, four quarterly studio projects, and one large-scale studio assignment (ambitious assignment).

1 ART I (9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th grades) Course #0400Students may choose to take ART I at rank level I. Beyond the description for the rank level 2 course, minimum requirements

for rank level I include one studio and three wrtten quarterly assignments (extensive art history research papers).

3 CERAMICS – A (9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th grades) Course #0408Explore the many facets of clay construction and decoration in creating functional, sculptural and decorative ceramic objects. This semester course stresses the role of ceramics in the past, as well as trends and innovations of contemporary ceramic production. Various procedures will be used to solve function-al and three dimensional design problems in creative ways. Hand-building, wheel-throwing, glazing and firing techniques will be introduced through open ended problems that require individual and unique solutions. This course is designed for the beginning ceramic student and may be taken one time. Students are expected to complete all classroom, homework and studio projects.

2 CERAMICS – A (9th, 10th, 11th and 12th grades) Course #0409Students may choose to take Ceramics - A at rank level 2. Beyond the description for the rank level 3 course, minimum requirements for rank level 2 include a 3 - 5 page research paper and an independent studio project.3 CERAMICS – B (9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th grades) Course #0410This semester course is a continuation of Ceramics – A and provides further exploration of clay techniques and procedures. Students enrolled in Ceramics – B will continue to refine the skills learned in Ceramics – A and be introduced to more ad-vanced approaches and processes. This course is designed for the advanced beginner ceramic student and may be taken one time. Students are expected to complete all classroom, homework and studio projects. PREREQUISITE: Completion of Ceramics A

Grade Course Description Rank Level Prerequisites

Page 20: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

2015-2016 Course Selection Guide

Page 19

2 CERAMICS – B (9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th grades) Course #0411Students may choose to take Ceramics - B at rank level 2. Beyond the description for the rank level 3 course, minimum requirements for rank level 2 include a 3 - 5 page research paper and an independent studio project.

3 DRAWING (9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th grades) Course #0414This semester course teaches students how to see as an artist and more accurately record their observations through drawing. Students will learn the basics of observational, design and imaginary drawing. A range of drawing techniques, methods and materials will be explored. Subject matter includes still life, the figure, portraiture, landscape and design. Students will be encouraged to draw inspiration from examples from the art of many cultures and civilizations throughout history. This class is designed to challenge both beginning and advanced students and may be taken four years. Curriculum rotation: Drawing A (2013/14), Drawing B (2014/15), Drawing C (2015/16), Drawing D (2016/17).Students are expected to complete all studio and written in-class and homework assignments.

2 DRAWING (9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th grades) Course #0415Students may choose to take DRAWING at rank level 2. Beyond the description for the rank level 3 course, minimum require-ments for rank level 2 include a 3 - 5 page research paper and an independent studio project.

3 PAINTING (9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th grades) Course #0416This semester course introduces students to the basics of painting through references to observational, design and imagi-nary approaches. A range of painting techniques, methods and materials will be explored. Subject matter includes still life, the figure, portraiture, landscape and design. Students will use their creative abilities as they study the masters of yesterday and today and adapt the techniques to their own work. This class is designed to challenge both beginning and advanced students and may be taken four years. Curriculum rotation: Painting A (2013/14), Painting B (2014/15, Painting C (2015/16), Painting D (2016/17).Students are expected to complete all studio and written in-class and homework assignments.

2 PAINTING (9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th grades) Course #0417Students may choose to take PAINTING at rank level 2. Beyond the description for the rank level 3 course, minimum require-ments for rank level 2 include a 3 - 5 page research paper and an independent studio project.2 ART II (10th, 11th, and 12th grades) Course #0402This course is a continuation of ART I and provides further exploration of the world of art and culture for those who wish to pursue art. Students in this year of the art major program will learn to see the world around them and draw it in a highly realistic manner. A variety of materials and techniques are used and art history introduced. Topics covered include observa-

tional drawing, perspective, color theory and design. Subject matter includes still life, figure drawing, portraiture, landscape and design. Students are expected to complete all classroom and homework studio projects, textbook accounting (chapter tests), monthly art reports, four quarterly studio assignments and one large-scale studio assignment (ambitious assignment).

1 ART II (10th, 11th, and 12th grades) Course #0403Students may choose to take ART II at rank level 1. Beyond the description for the rank level 2 course, minimum requirements for rank level 1 include one studio and three written quarterly assignments (extensive art history research papers). PREREQUISITE FOR ART II: Completion of ART I or its equivalent.

2 ART III (11th and 12th grades) Course #0404The third year of the art major program is intended for students who wish to further develop their creative talents. In this course, students will continue to refine their drawing and painting skills. Though representational subjects are still stressed, students will begin to address issues of personal expression, both intel-lectual and emotional, by studying the work of other artists and movements. A broad spectrum of methods and subject matter will be explored. Information on art colleges and professional schools is given. Preparatory work for the senior portfolio is accomplished.Students are expected to complete all classroom and homework studio projects, textbook accounting (chapter tests), monthly art reports, four quarterly studio assignments and one large-scale studio assignment (ambitious assignment).

1 ART III (11th and 12th grades) Course #0405Students may choose to take ART III at rank level 1. Beyond the description for the rank level 2 course, minimum requirements for rank level 1 include one studio and three written quarterly assignments (extensive art history research papers). PREREQUISITE FOR ART III: Completion of ART III or its equivalent.

2 PORTFOLIO PREPARATION (12th grade only) Course #0406The culminating year of the art major program, PORTFOLIO PREPARATION offers opportunities for highly personal and significant accomplishment through intensive work in drawing, painting and design. The senior textbook serves as a review and an enrichment of the student’s knowledge of man’s visual achievements, the studio work emphasizes awareness of mod-ern and contemporary issues and directions. A major objective of the course is to help students produce the art portfolio required for admission to university art programs, art schools or to aug-ment supplemental admission materials for college. Senior art students, on an individual basis, may apply for the Advanced Placement examinations in history of art and/or studio art.Students are expected to complete all classroom and homework studio projects, textbook accounting (chapter tests), monthly art reports, four quarterly studio assignments and one large-scale studio assignment (ambitious assignment).

Course Title Indicators: Rank Level AP Course Course Title Placement of Course in a Series (if applicable) Course #Example: 1 Art Major III 0405

Page 21: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

Penncrest High School

Page 20

Course Title Indicators: Rank Level AP Course Course Title Placement of Course in a Series (if applicable) Course #Example: 1 Art Major III 0405

Students will have the opportunity to build a body of work in an area of concentration, thus preparing them for the application process to top art schools and universities.

1 PORTFOLIO PREPARATION (12th grade only) Course #0407Students may choose to take PORTFOLIO PREPARATION at rank level 1. Beyond the description for the rank level 2 course, minimum requirements for rank level 1 include one studio and three written quarterly assignments (extensive art history re-search papers).Students will have the opportunity to build a body of work in an area of concentration, thus preparing them for the application process to top art schools and universities.PREREQUISITE FOR PORTFOLIO: Art teacher recommen-dation.NOTE: Field trips, taken on school time, are an integral part of the ART program and are scheduled throughout the year. Stu-dents are expected to participate in theses trips and complete the written and art assignments.

2 ADVANCED CERAMICS (10th, 11th, and 12th grades) Course #0412In this advanced year-long course, students will explore ceramic techniques and procedures as they refine the skills and tech-niques introduced in Ceramics – A and B. Historical and con-temporary ceramics will be discussed to inspire student work. Advanced ceramics students will develop a “concentration” or body of work in an area of interest and an independent studio project (ambitious assignment) with an artist statement as part of the culminiation of this class.Students are expected to complete all studio and written in-class and homework assignments.

1 ADVANCED CERAMICS (10th, 11th, and 12th grades) Course #0413Students may choose to take ADVANCED CERAMICS at rank level 1. Beyond the description for the rank level 2 course, mini-mum requirements for rank level 1 include four written quarterly assignments (art history and criticism papers).PREREQUISITE FOR ADVANCED CERAMICS : Completion of Ceramics A and B.

3 INTRODUCTION TO METALWORK & JEWELRY (10th, 11th, and 12th grades) Course #0420Enjoy an opportunity to produce unique metal creations in a variety of materials in this semester course. Students will learn how to design and construct metal projects through sawing, forming, piercing and soldering. Students will also explore classic jewelry styles and contemporary designs when creating wearable art made from metal. This course is designed for the beginning metalworker and may be taken one time. Students are expected to complete all studio and written in-class and homework assignments.Prerequisite: None

2 INTRODUCTION TO METALWORK & JEWELRY (10th, 11th, and 12th grades) Course #0421Students may choose to take INTRODUCTION TO METAL-WORK & JEWELRY at rank level 2. Beyond the description for the rank level 3 course, minimum requirements for rank level 2 include a 3 - 5 page research paper and an independent studio project. 3 ADVANCED METALWORK & JEWELRY (10th, 11th, and 12th grades) Course #0422This semester course will pick up where Metalwork & Jewelry left off. Students will incorporate the skills learned in the intro-ductory course to create more in-depth projects. Aside from sawing, forming, piercing and soldering, students will explore enameling and epoxy. Students will also learn about the de-velopment of jewelry from ancient to modern times as well as address current trends in metalwork. Students may take this course three years. Curriculum rotation: Advanced Metalwork A (2015/16), Advanced Metalwork B (2016/17), Advanced Metalwork C (2017/18).Students are expected to complete all studio and written in-class and homework assignments.

2 ADVANCED METALWORK & JEWELRY (10th, 11th, and 12th grades) Course #0423Students may choose to take ADVANCED METALWORK & JEWELRY at rank level 2. Beyond the description for the rank level 3 course, minimum requirements for rank level 2 include a 3 - 5 page research paper and an independent studio project.PREREQUISITE FOR ADVANCED METALWORK: Completion of Introduction of Metalwork & Jewelry.

3 MIXED MEDIA (10th, 11th, and 12th grades) Course #0418This semester course introduces students to a variety of ma-terials and techniques to create both two-dimensional and three-dimensional artworks. Historical and contemporary art will be discussed to inspire student work. Traditional art materials will be used in conjuction with nontraditional materials such as plaster, wood, metal, paper, found objects, glass and fibers. Emphasis will be placed on allowing students to explore a wide variety of art making experiences. This course may be taken for three years. Curriculum rotation: Mixed Media – A (2015/16), Mixed Media B (2016/17), Mixed Media C (2017/18). Students are expected to complete all studio and written in-class and homework assignments.

2 MIXED MEDIA (10th, 11th, and 12th Grades) Course #0419Students may choose to take MIXED MEDIA at rank level 2. Beyond the description for the rank level 3 course, minimum requirements for rank level 2 include a 3 - 5 page research paper and an independent studio project.

Page 22: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

2015-2016 Course Selection Guide

Page 21

BUSINESS EDUCATION COURSESAt a Glance

Mr. David Matthews (610-627-6321)

Graduation Requirements: Students may use Business Education courses to fulfill graduation requirements for Fine and Practical Arts or Electives.

2 ACCOUNTING I Course #0504Accounting I acquaints the student with the importance of accu-rate, up-to-date record keeping needed today by an individual or business in order to supply the information demanded by government and society. It provides a knowledge of the fol-lowing fundamentals: the meaning of accounting, the nature of accounts, the use of books of original entry, the general and subsidiary ledgers, the planning, summarizing, preparation, and analysis of financial statements, and the evaluation of records. This course helps to prepare the students for success in the operation of one’s own business or employment in an office or other business areas.The student is required to complete chapter problems in the workbook, to be checked and graded weekly. Homework is an integral part of this course and will be assigned on a regular basis. There will be at least 15 tests, plus five standardized tests at the completion of various stages of the accounting cycle. A practice set of business papers must be completed. Students will develop competency with Microsoft Excel Spreadsheet software in order to demonstrate skills required to maintain a computerized accounting system. E-mail and Internet utilization relating to accounting will also be components of the curriculum. If enrollment in this course exceeds capacity, preference in scheduling will be granted on the basis of seniority and other criteria established by the instructor.

1 ADVANCED ACCOUNTING Course #0506Advanced Accounting uses an integrated approach to teach college level accounting concepts. Students first learn how businesses plan for and evaluate their operating, financing and investing decisions and then how accounting systems gather and provide data to internal and external decision makers.

This year-long course covers all the learning objectives of a traditional college level financial accounting course, plus those from a managerial accounting course. Topics include an introduction to accounting, accounting information systems, time value of money, accounting for merchandising firms, sales and receivables, fixed assets, debt and equity. Other topics include statement of cash flows, financial ratios, cost-volume profit analysis and variance analysis.

3 INTRODUCTION TO BUSINESS Course #0502You are about to embark on an interesting and valuable learning experience! When you complete this course, you will have a better understanding of yourself and the way business functions. You will know what employers expect of you and how you can fulfill those expectations to compete success-fully in this dynamic world. You will have the skills to make reasoned decisions and the opportunity to investigate various career paths. You will also gain an appreciation of the free enterprise system through the creation of a business that will be operated at the school with your classmates.Through class discussion, group activities, text/workbook activities, video tapes, computer simulation, and guest speak-ers, students will explore working for, managing, and owning a small business while applying related marketing concepts and considerations.In-class activities will be assigned and tests are based upon the unit of instruction.Computer skills essential to modern business will be devel-oped, including Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Infor-mation Management will be incorporated into the course ma-terial, concentrating on e-mail and the Internet. E-commerce and its impact on business will be explored via a discussion of SAP E-business software.

Course Title Indicators: Rank Level AP Course Course Title Placement of Course in a Series (if applicable) Course #Example: 2 Accounting I 0504

Grade Level Course Title Length Rank Level 9, 10 Introduction to Business Full Year 2, 3 9, 10, 11, 12 Computer Apps for the 21st Century Full Year 2 10, 11, 12 Accounting I Full Year 2 Advanced Accounting Full Year 1 11, 12 Personal Financial Management One Semester 1, 2, or 3 Marketing & Sports/Entertainment Mgmt. One Semester 1, 2, or 3

Page 23: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

Penncrest High School

Page 22

2 INTRODUCTION TO BUSINESS Course #0501Students earning level 2 credit will complete all the textbook assignments and tests for rank level 3, will complete three proj-ects per quarter, plus participate in independent studies directly related to entrepreneurship, such as writing a business plan.

3 PERSONAL FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT Course # 0510 1 SemesterStudents will learn about personal financial management concepts focused on being “smart about money.” Targeted areas of study will concentrate on “earning money” through self exploration and discoveries in career planning; “keeping money,” through study of budgeting, financial planning, banking, using credit, savings, and investments and “protecting money,” through an examination of issues such as identity theft preven-tion and risk management principles.

2 PERSONAL FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT Course #0509 1 SemesterStudents will learn about personal financial management about comcepts focused on being “smary about money”. Targeted areas of study will concentrate on “earning money” through self exploration and discoveries in career planning; “keeping money”, through study of budgeting, financial planning, banking, using credit, savings, and investments and “protecting money”, through an examination of issues such as identity theft preven-tion and risk management principles. Students electing Personal Financial Management at rank level 2 will be expected to complete an independent project of either a research paper or book report of an approved topic and to present their findings.

1 PERSONAL FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT Course #0508 1 SemesterStudents will learn about personal financial management about concepts focused on being “smart about money”. Targeted areas of study will concentrate on “earning money” through self exploration and discoveries in career planning; “keeping money”, through study of budgeting, financial planning, banking, using credit, savings, and investments and “protecting money”, through an examination of issues such as identity theft preven-tion and risk management principles.Students electing Personal Financial Management at rank level 1 will be expected to participate in the Stock Market Game, to complete an independent project of either a research paper or book report of an approved topic, and to present their findings.

3 MARKETING AND SPORTS/ENTERTAINMENT MGMT. Course #0513 1 SemesterMarketing consists of the strategies and tactics used to identify, create, and maintain satisfying relationships with customers that result in value for both the customer and the marketer. While one typically views marketing activities relating to businesses, marketing skills are also used to promote political, social, and charitable non-business organizations.This semester length course will develop a students’ un-derstanding and skills in marketing plans, market research, advertising, sales, service, e-commerce, and related job and career topics.

Course Title Indicators: Rank Level AP Course Course Title Placement of Course in a Series (if applicable) Course #

2 MARKETING AND SPORTS/ENTERTAINMENT MGMT. Course #0512 1 SemesterThe course is an interdisciplinary marketing course in nature, with a focus on the management and marketing of venues, sports, musicians, artists, and events. The course will develop critical thinking, decision-making, and communication skills through real-world applications aimed at preparing students to handle specific tasks associated with the industries. Job shadowing opportunities will be encouraged along with speak-ers designed to provide future business leaders with a solid business foundation as well as knowledge of the unique facets of the Sports and Entertainment Industries.

1 MARKETING AND SPORTS/ENTERTAINMENT MGMT. Course #0511 1 Semester

The course is an interdisciplinary marketing course in nature, with a focus on the management and marketing of venues, sports, musicians, artists, and events. The course will develop critical thinking, decision-making, and communication skills through real-world applications aimed at preparing students to handle specific tasks associated with the industries. Job shadowing opportunities will be encouraged along with speakers designed to provide future business leaders with a solid business foundation as well as knowledge of the unique facets of the Sports and Entertainment Industries.

Those who choose to take rank level 1 will be expected to complete all requirements of the rank level 2 plus an independent study experience of a current business industry leader. This is to be presented in written form and electronic presentation.

2 COMPUTER APPLICATIONS FOR THE 21ST CENTURY Course #0514 This year-long course is designed to provide students with an opportunity to increase their knowledge of using the computer as a tool for organizing, communicating, researching, and problem solving by using a variety of software available in the Microsoft Office suite and e-tools found on the internet. Projects will be completed in class as students use the software and e-tools that are in their “technology toolkit” to create solutions to the tasks needed within that project. Project topics are widely varied and will include essentials of computer hardware and software.

Page 24: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

2015-2016 Course Selection Guide

Page 23

GradeRequirements Or Electives

Rank Level AP Rank Level 1 Rank Level 2 Rank Level 3

9 Requirement 1 English 9 2 English 9 3 English 9

Electives1 SAT Boot Camp (SEM) 2 TV Production I

2 SAT Boot Camp (SEM)

10 Requirement 1 English 10 2 English 10 3 English 10

Electives

1 Oral Communications 1 Theatre Lab (SEM)1 SAT Boot Camp (SEM)1 Women in Literature(SEM)

2 TV Production I 2 SAT Boot Camp (SEM)2 Theatre Lab (SEM)2 Women in Literature(SEM)

11 Requirement AP Lang & Comp A & B

1 American Writers/ 1 Composition

2 American Writers/2 Composition

3 Forms of Literature/ 3 Composition

Electives

1 Oral Communications1 Humanities1 TV Production II1 Theatre Lab (SEM)1 SAT Boot Camp (SEM)1 Women in Literature(SEM)

2 Oral Communications2 Humanities2 TV Production I & II2 Theatre Lab (SEM)2 SAT Boot Camp (SEM)2 Women in Literature(SEM)

12 Requirement AP Lit & Comp A & B

1 World Writers/Advanced Communications1 World Writers/CreativeWriting

2 World Writers/Advanced Communications 2 World Writers//Creative Writing

3 Communications/ Themes of Reading

Electives

1 Oral Communications1 Humanities1 TV Production II 1 Theatre Lab (SEM)1 Women in Literature(SEM)

2 Oral Communications2 Humanities2 TV Production I & II 2 Theatre Lab (SEM)2 Women in Literature(SEM)

ENGLISH COURSES - At a GlanceBuilding Coordinator: Ms. Carley Dillon (610-627-6365)

Graduation Requirements: All students must take four years of English and must achieve Proficiency either on the Keystone Examination in Literature OR on alternative state-mandated assessments.

Course Title Indicators: Rank Level AP Course Course Title Placement of Course in a Series (if applicable) Course #Example: 1 AP Language and Composition 0109

ENGLISH FOR GRADE 9 - ALL COURSESThe following three courses describe the ninth grade English program. The ninth year of English study surveys different forms of literature and interpretation. A variety of types of writing is required with an emphasis on analytical papers. Extensive de-velopment of punctuation, capitalization, vocabulary, grammar, usage, and spelling is carried on throughout the course. The development of study skills is also a feature of all ninth-grade courses.

1 ENGLISH 9 COURSE #0101This advanced Level 1 English course is designed for students who want to challenge themselves and are highly motivated to complete nightly reading assignments. Each unit in this rigorous course provides strategies to develop students’ higher-level thinking skills. Students will also be expected to follow a regular schedule of “outside” reading in addition to the reading assigned as part of the class work. Placement in level 1 is based on rank level 1 eligibility requirements.

2 ENGLISH 9 COURSE # 0102Level 2 English 9 is an honors course that serves those students who have consistently performed above average in previous English courses. Students who are eligible for level 1 English 9 but do not select it will be placed in level 2. Students who attempt rank level 2 will be held to a rigorous daily schedule of in-class and independent reading. Placement in rank level 2 is based on the recommendations of the student’s eighth-grade English teacher and guidance counselor.

3 ENGLISH 9 COURSE # 0103Level 3 English 9 is designed for the average student in En-glish. Level 3 classes provide extensive attention to students’ individual needs. Students in level 3 classes will receive a program emphasizing core writing skills, reading skills and study skills. Placement in rank level 3 is based on the recom-mendations of the student’s eighth-grade English teacher and guidance counselor.

Page 25: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

Penncrest High School

Page 24

ENGLISH FOR GRADE 10 - ALL COURSESThe tenth year of English furthers the student’s study of liter-ature. Increasing emphasis is placed on in-depth reading. In written composition students learn to use appropriate evidence or reasons in support of generalizations, establish clarity through careful word choice, and develop a more effective style. There is considerable emphasis on skills in the tenth-grade program—including punctuation, capitalization, vocabulary, spelling, grammar, and usage. Speaking and listening skill development will be incorporated in the study of language, literature, and the composing process.

1 ENGLISH 10 COURSE #0105Level 1 English 10 is designed for students who qualify through test scores and performance. The level 1 course emphasizes clear thinking and expression. The writing program focuses on sharpening skills in narrative, descriptive, expository, and persuasive writing. The literature program includes in-depth study of classic, narrative works with emphasis on critical anal-ysis and insight. Students are expected to be self-disciplined in taking responsibility for their own learning through active participation in class discussions, cooperative learning, and group presentations. Vocabulary Workbooks: In all rank level 1 tenth-grade class-es, workbooks will be used to provide enriched vocabulary instruction.RECOMMENDATION: Teachers strongly recommend that students maintain at least a ”B” average in order to continue current rank level placement; students should maintain a “A” average in current placement in order to move into a higher rank-level offering. Students who do not meet these criteria must waive through the waiver process.

2 ENGLISH 10 COURSE #0106Level 2 serves those students who have consistently performed above average in previous English courses. Students study three or more core readings comprised of twentieth century classics and one or more Shakespearean plays. Poetry and nonfiction units are also taught. Level 2 challenges students to think and respond well beyond the literal level with emphasis on close reading and inferential thinking. Students write frequently using the narrative, descriptive, persuasive, and expository modes, with most grammar skills taught through the use of student writing samples. RECOMMENDATION: Teachers strongly recommend that students maintain at least a ”B” average in order to continue current rank level placement; students should maintain a “A” average in current placement in order to move into a higher rank-level offering. Students who do not meet these criteria must waive through the waiver process.

3 ENGLISH 10 COURSE #0107Level 3 English 10 is designed for the average student in En-glish. Level 3 classes provide extensive attention to students’ individual needs. Students in level 3 classes will receive a program emphasizing core writing skills, reading skills and study skills. Placement in Rank level 3 is based on the recom-mendations of the student’s ninth-grade English teacher and guidance counselor.

ENGLISH FOR GRADE 11 - SEMESTER COURSES

3 FORMS OF LITERATURE COURSE #0113In this college preparatory course, students will study all forms of literature, including novels, short stories, plays, poetry, and non-fiction. Students will read one core novel each marking period. Written work will include formal papers based on anal-ysis of both content and structure of the selections Independent reading is also required for this course. During the second half of each marking period, the teacher will help students select literature to further their understanding and appreciation of the literary form. Students are expected to read their independently selected work outside of class; journals and analysis papers will be used to evaluate student performance during the independent reading units.

3 COMPOSITION - COURSE #0114 2 COMPOSITION - COURSE #0112 1 COMPOSITION - COURSE #0116This course offers a careful study of the four forms of writing: description, narration, persuasion, and exposition. It progresses from subjective, personal narration to the objective research paper.The minimum requirements for this course include major papers from two to three pages in length and shorter assignments based on specific skills, such as developing character, tele-scoping and expanding specific events, establishing a tone, using specific details, developing a thesis statement, supporting a thesis statement with adequate reasons and examples, and appropriately integrating secondary sources into the body of a research paper. In addition, there will be occasional vocabulary and grammar reviews.Students who take rank level 2 Composition should expect to complete several assignments for formal presentation each marking period. Students who take Rank Level 1 can expect to complete substantial written work outside of class. Rank level 1 students should demonstrate above-average mastery of grammar and mechanics.All composition students must complete a research paper that meets course level requirements in order to pass the course.

2 AMERICAN WRITERS - COURSE #0111 1 AMERICAN WRITERS - COURSE #0115This challenging course engages students in the investigation of major movements and themes in American Literature. The core offering focuses on a chronological survey of major works, from the foundation documents of the Colonial Period to the great works of the Romantics, to the study of the modern hero and the introduction of the contemporary novel. Texts include Elements of American Literature, The Great Gatsby and Death of a Salesman. Students can expect quizzes in each unit, exam-inations on units and novels, critical papers based on analysis of major works, and a literary research project. Additionally, students should expect reading homework every night. RECOMMENDATION: Students who select 1 American Writers or 2 American Writers should have advanced reading ability in order to comprehend reading assignments. Students who select

Course Title Indicators: Rank Level AP Course Course Title Placement of Course in a Series (if applicable) Course #Example: 1 AP Language and Composition 0109

Page 26: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

2015-2016 Course Selection Guide

Page 25

1 American Writers should expect the following:1. additional independent reading as an outgrowth

of their study of various units.2. greater focus on deeper reading of major works.3. an additional project and/or additional analytical

or comparative compositions.RECOMMENDATION: Teachers strongly recommend that students maintain at least a ”B” average in order to continue current rank level placement; students should maintain a “A” average in current placement in order to move into a higher rank-level offering. Students who do not meet these criteria must waive through the waiver process.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT LANGUAGE AND COMPOSITION COURSE #0109 & #0110This course covers two semesters. Students who wish to take it do not need to select another English course. Students will study theories of language and literature from several genres and periods and will consider structure, meaning, value, and the relationship of a text both to modern times and to the time in which it was written. A few challenging works will be stud-ied intensively. Literary concentrations will be on Nobel Prize winners, on dramatic literature, and on non-fiction; reading will also include Advanced Placement course recommendations. Writing assignments will focus on the critical analysis of text and will include essays of exposition and argument. There will be additional writing of a more personal/creative nature, as well as some type of research paper. Students must submit a research project each semester in order to pass the course. Students will be encouraged to develop their individual writing styles. All of the language arts will be emphasized: reading, writing, speaking, listening, and viewing. Students should have advanced reading ability and should expect at least 30-60 minutes of homework each night. Failure to turn in required assignments will result in course failure. Specific strategies for taking the Advanced Placement English ex-ams will be incorporated throughout the course; students taking the course will be well prepared to take the ETS Advanced Placement Language and Composition exam in their junior year. RECOMMENDATION: Teachers strongly recommend that students maintain at least a ”B” average in order to continue current rank level placement; students should maintain a “A” average in current placement in order to move into a higher rank-level offering. Students who do not meet these criteria must waive through the waiver process.

Students in this course are expected to take the AP exam. Students who elect not to take the AP exam musttake the course final at the end of the year.

ENGLISH FOR GRADE 12 - SEMESTER COURSES

3 THEMES IN READING COURSE # 0123This course consists of reading novels, short stories, plays, and nonfiction. Major units alternate between core readings selected by the teacher and student self-selected readings. Core read-ings will be chosen from among The Catcher in the Rye, The Crucible, Death of a Salesman, and The Things They Carried. Each unit incorporates a variety of types of response, including journal writing, study guides, and major written responses, which may take expository or fictional forms. Group work and teacher/student conferences constitute important learning activities as well. The course will aim to prepare students to be successful in reading assignments at the college level.

3 COMMUNICATIONS COURSE #0124This course concentrates on how the world delivers information to and persuades people. This analytical course relies heavily on media literacy, as it becomes more and more necessary in America’s ever changing, technologically connected society. The instructor emphasizes the importance for all students to understand the influences, techniques, strategies, and appli-cations of the global mass communications industry. Thematic units include Dystopia, Advertising, Propaganda, Censorship, Satire, and Media Bias. Students will read, analyze and apply media concepts to print, television, film and social media, as well as the First Amendment to the Bill of Rights of the United States’ Constitution. Writing assignments and projects include essays, research projects for each unit, quizzes, unit tests, and daily written responses to short answer and essay questions. This course prepares students to be successful in writing and media analysis at the college level. In addition, students leave this class with the ability to identify and analyze the persuasion that the average American faces every day.

2 WORLD WRITERS - COURSE #0120 1 WORLD WRITERS - COURSE #0125This course, which is excellent preparation for college, crosses national boundaries in order to present contemporary and clas-sical literature that is representative of various parts of the world. Universal themes form the basis for units of study that include many well-known writers who compose in English and other whose works are read in translation. All forms of literature may be included: novels, plays, short stories, poems and nonfiction.Pillars of the course include one Shakespearean tragedy, Ham-let or Macbeth, and one Greek tragedy, Oedipus or Antigone. Assignments include writing analytical and comparative essays dealing with ideas which emerge from the study of the literature, tests on the major works studied, weekly quizzes on vacab-ulary, and daily readings. Students must submit each major unit’s paper and/or test in order to pass the course. Students who select 1 World Writers or 2 World Writers should have advanced reading skills.

Course Title Indicators: Rank Level AP Course Course Title Placement of Course in a Series (if applicable) Course #Example: 1 AP Language and Composition 0109

Page 27: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

Penncrest High School

Page 26

RECOMMENDATION: Teachers strongly recommend that students maintain at least a ”B” average in order to continue current rank level placement; students should maintain a “A” average in current placement in order to move into a higher rank-level offering. Students who do not meet these criteria must waive through the waiver process.

2 ADVANCED COMMUNICATIONS COURSE #0119 1 ADVANCED COMMUNICATIONS COURSE #0126This course helps students to better understand the communi-cations revolution of the 20th century, the role of mass media in our society, and the importance of print, television, and film. The course units include concentrations on censorship, jour-nalism, propaganda, television, advertising, and consumerism. Required reading includes 1984 by George Orwell, Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury, and several essays and articles related to media education. Students in this course will be required to work with difficult readings and to prepare ambitious papers. There will be at least one short research paper per marking period and one major video project. Students who elect Rank Level 1 will be expected to complete substantial reading outside of class and to have an above-av-erage mastery of writing mechanics.Every effort will be made to accommodate Advanced Commu-nications and Creative Writing scheduling requests. Enrollment may dictate course availability.RECOMMENDATION: Teachers strongly recommend that students maintain at least a ”B” average in order to continue current rank level placement; students should maintain a “A” average in current placement in order to move into a higher rank-level offering. Students who do not meet these criteria must waive through the waiver process.

2 CREATIVE WRITING - COURSE #0122 1 CREATIVE WRITING - COURSE #0121This course is a workshop in a variety of creative genres, which may include personal narrative and essay, poetry, fic-tion, screenwriting, and drama. A love of writing is imperative, since most of this course consists of active writing in a class constructed as an interactive writing laboratory. Students are required to write daily and to complete a variety of reading and writing exercises outside of class; students who elect Rank Level 1 will be expected to complete substantial drafting and revision outside of class and also to have an above-average mastery of writing mechanics. Each unit will culminate in a major piece (personal essay, short story, poetry collection, screenplay/play). Every effort will be made to accommodate Advanced Communi-cations and Creative Writing scheduling requests. Enrollment may dictate course availability. RECOMMENDATION: Teachers strongly recommend that students maintain at least a ”B” average in order to continue current rank level placement; students should maintain a “A” average in current placement in order to move into a higher rank-level offering. Students who do not meet these criteria must waive through the waiver process.

AP LITERATURE AND COMPOSITION A & B COURSE #0117 & #0118This course covers two semesters. Students who wish to take it do not need to select another English course. The Advanced Placement English course in Literature and Composition will engage students in the careful reading and critical analysis of literature from various genres, concentrating on numerous works of recognized literary merit from the medieval times to the present, and focusing on in-depth study of several major works. Students will read deliberately and thoroughly, taking time to understand a work’s complexity, to absorb its richness of meaning, and to analyze how that meaning is embodied in literary form. In reading, students will consider various critical approaches, as well as literary elements, such as structure, style, theme, figurative language, symbolism, and tone; careful attention to both textual detail and historical context will pro-vide a foundation for interpretation. Writing will be an integral part of the course and will focus on the critical analysis and understanding of literature, including expository, analytical, and argumentative essays, as well as creative assignments; some of these writings will be timed, to prepare students for future college work and the AP test itself. Failure to submit major projects may result in automatic failure of the course. Specific strategies for taking the Advanced Placement English exams will be incorporated throughout the course; students taking the course will be well prepared to take the ETS Advanced Place-ment Literature and Composition exam. RECOMMENDATION: Teachers strongly recommend that students maintain at least a ”B” average in order to continue current rank level placement; students should maintain a “A” average in current placement in order to move into a higher rank-level offering. Students who do not meet these criteria must waive through the waiver process. Students in this course are expected to take the AP exam. Stu-dents who elect not to take the AP exam must take the course final at the end of the year.

ENGLISH ELECTIVES

2 ORAL COMM/PUBLIC SPEAKING - COURSE #0128 1 ORAL COMM/PUBLIC SPEAKING - COURSE #0127 The goal of this course is to help students develop and strengthen their existing (or newly forming) presentation skills. The course gives students the opportunity to study and gain a working knowledge of the theory and psychology involved in both verbal and nonverbal communications. At the heart of the course is speaking, writing and listening. Students will speak often so they can practice and refine their delivery style and develop more confidence in presenting before others. This practice is accomplished through a variety of in-class exercises and role plays, and through more formal assigned speeches. Students will be videotaped regularly and will be expected to view and critique their own speeches. The course will help students improve their mechanics (articulation, vocal tone and volume, delivery style) and also work on techniques to help reduce nervousness/stage fright. Students will gain experience in writing and delivering several different types of speeches, including: impromptu/extemporaneous; informative; critique, and persuasive. The course also includes a unit on writing and delivering material for broadcast, and debate. The course also incorporates a unit on broadcasting so students can learn more about writing and delivering material for broadcast.

Course Title Indicators: Rank Level AP Course Course Title Placement of Course in a Series (if applicable) Course #Example: 1 AP Language and Composition 0109

Page 28: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

2015-2016 Course Selection Guide

Page 27

Coursework includes eight to ten major speaking assignments; oral exercises and short written assignments; self and peer eval-uations; several quizzes, and a final research –based project paper and presentation on some aspect of oral communications. This elective course is open to grade 10, level 1 students; however, priority will be given to students in grades 11 and 12.Students may elect Oral Communications at rank level 1. In addition to the rank level 2 requirements described above, the rank level 1 requirements include three independent –study creative projects that students may select from a suggested list of topics.

2 HUMANITIES - COURSE #0134 1 HUMANITIES - COURSE #0133

In this elective course, students explore literature and its his-torical frame. Beginning with the ancient Greeks and ending in modern America, we study literature and the art, architecture, music, and values of the period surrounding it. We read, look at, and listen to what different ages and cultures considered beautiful and meaningful.

Humanities is a challenging course. Reading the text and the classic works of literature makes up much of the nightly home-work. Each student is expected to write a variety of papers during the year, some personal, some creative, and some in-formational. Essays are a part of every test. A research project is required to pass the course.Students may choose to take Humanities at rank level 1. Beyond the rank level 2 requirements described above, rank level 1 requirements include three additional major projects. Submission of a third marking period research is required to pass the course.

2 THEATRE LAB - (SEMESTER)COURSE # 0130 1 THEATRE LAB - (SEMESTER)COURSE # 0129Theatre Lab provides a structured laboratory for exploration of all aspects of theater—performance, direction, and writing. The initial units concentrate on performance theory, with emphasis on the Stanislavski Method. Later units include Directors’ Lab, Playwrights’ Lab, and Film Study. Students will participate in classroom exercises which will enhance a variety of perfor-mance and stagecraft skills. This course is open to Grade 10, level 1 students, however, priority will be given to students in Grades 11 and 12.Requirements for the course include several monologue presen-tations, two scene studies and presentations, one play writing assignment, and one film acting study and presentation. Writ-ten work includes character analyses, process and homework reactions, critiques of student scenes, self-evaluations, and performance project research. Class work includes a variety of improvisations and theater exercises, as well as project construction and presentation rehearsal. Students may choose to take Theatre Lab at rank level 1. In addition to the rank level 2 requirements for Theatre Lab, the requirements for rank level 1 include three additional major projects.

Course Title Indicators: Rank Level AP Course Course Title Placement of Course in a Series (if applicable) Course #Example: 1 AP Language and Composition 0128

2 TV PRODUCTION I COURSE #0136In this course, students learn how television programs are pro-duced and participate in hands-on projects to develop skills in the following areas: Pre-production planning, storyboarding, basic scriptwriting, basic editing techniques, basic studio cam-era techniques, studio operations and control room operations.

2 TV PRODUCTION II COURSE # 0137In this course, students produce video segments and learn elements of journalistic style and standards. Students function as writers, talent, producers, videographers and editors. They will acquire skills in the following areas: field camera operation, broadcast writing style and format, on-air presence, interviewing techniques, effective storytelling techniques, production tech-niques both in the field and in the studio, news judgement, news ethics, professional journalistic standards and responsibilities. This course is open to students who have passed TV Production I with a grade of “C” or above.

1 TV PRODUCTION II COURSE # 0135Students may choose to take 2 TV Production at rank level 1. In addition to the Rank Level 2 requirements for2 TV Production II, the requirements for rank level 1 include three additional major projects.

1 SAT BOOT CAMP - COURSE # 0132 2 SAT BOOT CAMP - COURSE # 0131This one-semester elective course will help ninth, tenth and eleventh grade students perform more successfully on the verbal portion of college entrance exams, including the SAT and the ACT, Students will increase test-taking skills, review and expand vocabulary, extend knowledge of root and affix meaning, and improve overall reading comprehension through increased self-questioning and interaction with the written text. Frequent practice with sample tests and extensive reading of expository and narrative writings to develop critical reading skills are required. Students may choose to take Sat Boot Camp at rank level 2; additional individual assignments must be completed for level 1 credit.

2 WOMEN IN LITERATURE (SEMESTER) COURSE# 01491 WOMEN IN LITERATURE (SEMESTER) COURSE #0150This course will examine the role of women in society from a historical and modern perspective and how this cultural expe-rience affects the development of literature created by women artists/authors.This reading intensive course will explore novels, short stories, essays, poetry, and plays written by women from diverse cul-tures. Grades will be primarily based on class discussion and written responses/reflections to critical thinking prompts. Homework will consist of mostly reading assignments,Students may choose to take the course at rank level 1. In addition to the rank level 2 requirements, additional individual assignments must be completed for level 1 credit.

Page 29: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

Penncrest High School

Page 28

OVERVIEW OF ENGLISH FOR SPEAKERS OF OTHER LANGUAGES COURSE SELECTIONThe ESOL Program at Penncrest High School is committed to welcoming speakers of other languages to our school com-munity and nurturing them in their acquisition of the English language and adjustment to American culture. The program is mandatory for any student who tests as non-proficient in the English language in any or all of the following areas: Reading, writing, speaking, and/or listening.

2 ESOL I (INTRODUCTORY ESOL) Course #0151This content-based course is mandatory for any student who has tested at a pre-English level proficiency in the English language. The focus of this course is the development of basic interper-sonal communication skills in the English language. Students will also learn about various aspects of American culture.

2 ESOL II (BEGINNING ESOL) Course #0152This content-based course is mandatory for any student who has tested at a beginning level proficiency in the English lan-guage and is also designed to meet the needs of students who have successfully completed ESOL I. ESOL II will focus on the expansion of basic interpersonal communication skills and the development of academic language skills in English. Students will also learn about various aspects of American culture.

1 ESOL II (BEGINNING ESOL) Course #0153Any student enrolled in this course may elect to earn rank level 1 credit by completing additional course work as determined by the department.

2 ESOL III A (INTERMEDIATE ESOL) Course #0154This content-based course is mandatory for any student who has tested at a low intermediate level proficiency in the English language and is also designed to meet the needs of students who have successfully completed ESOL II. ESOL III A will focus on the expansion of academic language skills in English. Stu-dents will also learn about various aspects of American culture.

1 ESOL III A (INTERMEDIATE ESOL) Course #0155Any student enrolled in this course may elect to earn rank level 1 credit by completing additional course work as determined by the department.

2 ESOL III B (INTERMEDIATE ESOL) Course #0156This content-based course is mandatory for any student who has tested at a high intermediate level proficiency in the English language and is also designed to meet the needs of students who have successfully completed ESOL III A. ESOL III B will focus on the expansion of academic language skills in English. Students will also learn about various aspects of American culture.

1 ESOL III B (INTERMEDIATE ESOL) Course #0157Any student enrolled in this course may elect to earn rank level 1 credit by completing additional course work as determined by the department.

2 ESOL IV (ADVANCED ESOL) Course #0158This content-based course is mandatory for any student who has tested at an advanced level proficiency in the English language and is also designed to meet the needs of students who have successfully completed ESOL III. ESOL IV will focus on the mastery of academic language skills in English. Students will also learn various aspects of American culture.

1 ESOL IV (ADVANCED ESOL) Course #0159Any student enrolled in this course may elect to earn rank level 1 credit by completing additional course work as determined by the department.

ENGLISH FOR SPEAKERS OF OTHER LANGUAGES (ESOL) COURSESAt a Glance

Mrs. Jeanne Richter (610-627-6259)

Course Title Indicators: Rank Level AP Course Course Title Placement of Course in a Series (if applicable) Course #Example: 1 AP ESOL II 0153

Page 30: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

2015-2016 Course Selection Guide

Page 29

FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCES COURSESAt a Glance

Mrs. Jessica Anderson (610-627-6223)

2 PSYCHOLOGY OF RELATIONSHIPS Course #0702Want to be a step ahead of your peers in college? If so, this is the course for you. Psychology of Relationships will give you an overview of topics covered in college Psychology 101 courses. This course was developed to help students understand them-selves and to relate to other people. It also includes a study of major psychological theories. Activities will relate the theories to personal experience. Course content will prepare students for introductory psychology classes. Student achievement is evaluated by performance on tests, quizzes, worksheets, se-lected reports, assignments, and class participation.

2 CHILD PSYCHOLOGY & DEVELOPMENT Course #0704How many of us go through life without having contact with children? In order to work with children successfully, you must have knowledge, skills, and a feeling of confidence. With this knowledge you will facilitate each child’s learning and develop-ment naturally and spontaneously. This course was developed to enable the student to understand the step-by-step develop-ment of children according to similar and predictable patterns, but also to recognize that each child progresses at an individual rate. Major theorists and their contributions to the field of child psychology will be covered. Students will gain hands-on experience by working with children from the community. Each student will work with a preschool child and be evaluated on his or her interaction with the child and the child’s parents. Student achievement will be evaluated by performance on tests, quizzes, worksheets, selected reports, assignments and class participation.

3 CHILD PSYCHOLOGY & DEVELOPMENT Course #0703

Students who take Child Development for Level 3 credit are expected to meet most of the requirements of the standard course. Selected reports and assignments will not be completed. Some tests and quizzes will be adapted.

Graduation Requirements: Students enroll in Family and Consumer Sciences courses to fulfill graduation requirements for Fine and Practical Arts or Electives.

3 ADVANCED FOOD AND NUTRITION I Course #0705Students in this course will understand the importance of proper nutrition by identifying nutrients’ functions, chemical make-up, and food sources. Students will gain a basic understanding of cooking terms, utensils, equipment and procedures. Two or three days a week will be spent in the cooking lab. Some of the units to be covered are Kitchen Safety and Sanitation, Basic Nutrition, Cookies, Breads and Poultry.Student achievement will be evaluated by performance on tests, quizzes, labs, and class participation. Students must score 70% or above on the Safety and Sanitation tests before working in the foods lab. If enrollment in this course exceeds capacity, preference in scheduling will be granted on the basis of seniority and other criteria established by the instructor.

3 ADVANCED FOOD AND NUTRITION II Course #0706This is an advanced food course emphasizing preparation techniques. Students will understand the functions and inter-actions between ingredients and explain techniques necessary to prepare quality products. Some of the units to be covered are Cakes, Chocolate, Fruits, Vegetables, Milk, Cheese, Meat and Garnishing.Student achievement will be evaluated by performance on tests, quizzes, labs, projects, and class participation. Students must score 70% or above on the Safety and Sanitation test in order to work in the foods lab. If enrollment in this course exceeds capacity, preference in scheduling will be granted on the basis of seniority and other criteria established by the instructor.PREREQUISITE: C or Above in Advanced Food and Nutrition I

Course Title Indicators: Rank Level AP Course Course Title Placement of Course in a Series (if applicable) Course #Example: 2 AP Psychology of Relationships I 0701

Grade Level Course Description Length Rank Level 10, 11, 12 Advanced Food and Nutrition I One Semester 3 Advanced Food and Nutrition II One Semester 3 11, 12 Psychology of Relationships One Semester 2 Child Psychology & Development One Semester 2 or 3

Page 31: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

Penncrest High School

Page 30

MATHEMATICS COURSES - At a GlanceBuilding Coordinator: Mrs. Dana Sudall (610-627-6387)

Graduation Requirements: All students must take at least three math courses, including Algebra and Geometry. All students must also achieve Proficiency either on the Keystone Examination in Algebra

OR on alternative state-mandated assessments.

* While these are common progressions, there are other possibilities, depending on the needs of the individual student.

The math department also offers courses in computer science. See the section labeled Computer Courses on page 35.

Fulfill the ALGEBRARequirement

With These Courses

Fulfill the GEOMETRYRequirement

With These Courses

ExploreCOLLEGE-LEVEL MATH

Concepts With These Courses

High School Algebra I (@SLMS) High School Geometry (@SLMS) 3 Functions, Statistics andTrigonometry

3 Algebra I 3 Geometry 2 Pre-Calc. with Trigonometry

2 Algebra I 2 Geometry 1 Pre-Calc. with Trigonmetry

1 Algebra I 1 Geometry AP Statistics

AP Calculus

2 Statistics

2 Calculus

1 Calculus

RECOMMENDED* PROGRESSIONS IN MATH

GradeLevel Rank 1/AP Rank 1/AP Rank 1 Rank 2 Rank 2 Rank 3

9 1 Algebra II 1 Geometry 1 Algebra I 2 Algebra I 2 Geometry 3 Algebra I

10 AP Statistics 1 Algebra II 1 Geometry 2 Geometry 2 Algebra II 3 Geometry

11 1 Pre-Calculus 1 Pre-Calculus and/or AP Statistics 1 Algebra II 2 Algebra II 2 Pre-Calculus 3 Algebra II

12 AP Calculus AB or BC

1 Calculus or AP Calculus AB or BC and/or AP Statistics

1 Pre-Calculus and/or AP Statistics

2 Pre-Calculus 2 Calculus / 2 Statistics

3 Functions, Statistics,and Trig

Page 32: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

2015-2016 Course Selection Guide

Page 31

1 ALGEBRA ICourse #0853

Algebra is a language used to extend the ideas of arithmetic. Variables are used to represent numbers and these variables are combined according to the rules of Algebra. Students learn to simplify expressions with variables, to solve systems of equations and inequalities. Other topics include polynomials, exponents, radicals, rational expressions and quadratic equations. Students can expect to do 30-45 minutes of homework each night. Quizzes, tests, a midterm exam and a final exam are part of the course requirements.Placement is based on multiple performance criteria and teacher recommendation. A graphing calculator is REQUIRED. The teacher will be using the TI-83+ or TI-84+ in class.

2 ALGEBRA I Course #0802In this honors level course, Algebra is a language used to extend the ideas of arithmetic. Variables (letters) are used to represent numbers, and these variables are combined according to the rules of arithmetic. Students learn to simplify expressions with variables, to solve and graph linear equa-tions and inequalities, and to solve systems of equations and inequalities. Other topics include: addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of polynomials along with square roots and the solution of quadratic equations. A primary goal of algebra is the use of mathematical ideas in solving a wide variety of word problems.Homework will be checked on a regular basis and will include text readings. Quizzes, tests, a mid-term examination, and a final examination are part of the course requirements.Placement is based on multiple performance criteria and teacher Recommendation. A graphing calculator is required. The techer will be using the TI-83+ or TI-84+ in class.

3 ALGEBRA I Course #0805In this college preparatory course, Algebra is a language used to extend the ideas of mathematics and to solve prob-lems that would be difficult to solve using arithmetic alone. Variables (letters) are used to represent numbers, and these variables are combined according to the rules of arithmetic. Students learn to simplify expressions with variables, to solve and graph linear equations and inequalities. Other topics include addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of polynomials, and operations with radicals. Homework will be checked on a regular basis and will include text readings. Quizzes, tests, midterm and final examinations are part of the course requirements.Placement is based on multiple performance criteria and teacher recommendation. A graphing calculator is required. The teacher will be using the TI-83+ or TI-84+ in class.

1 GEOMETRY Course #0801In this advanced course, the student will study deductive rea-soning and its application through the study of plane and spatial figures. The student will expand his knowledge of mathematical terms and ideas and will utilize his algebraic skills. Topics of study include: parallel lines, perpendicular

lines, circles, congruent and similar figures, (triangles, quad-rilaterals, and other closed figures), transformations, areas, volumes, and constructions.

Homework will be assigned nearly every day and will be checked on a regular basis. Special projects may be as-signed periodically. Assessments may include but not limited to quizzes, tests, midterm, final examination, and/or projects.RECOMMENDATION: Students should have a test average of 80% or better in level 1 Algebra I or Middle School Algebra I.

2 GEOMETRY Course #0807This honors level course will introduce the student to deduc-tive reasoning and its applications through the study of plane and spatial figures. The student will expand his knowledge of mathematical terms and ideas as well as utilize his algebraic skills. Topics include parallel lines, perpendicular lines, circles, congruent and similar figures (triangles, quadrilaterals, and other closed figures), and basic construction skills.Homework will be checked at least twice a week. A minimum of twenty quizzes and tests, a mid-term, and final exam are integral parts of this course. Students will be required to have a protractor, straight edge, and compass.Recommendation:Student should have a test average of 70% or better in Level 2 Algebra 1.

3 GEOMETRY Course #0808In this college preparatory course, students will develop reasoning and problem solving skills as they study topics such as congruence and similarity, and apply properties of lines, triangles, quadrilaterals, and circles. Students will also develop problem solving skills by using length, permiter, area, circumference, surface area, and volume to solve real-world problems.Tests and quizzes will be given for each unit. A midterm and final exam are integral parts of this course. All students are required to have a scientific calculator.

1 ALGEBRA II Course #0809This advanced course includes the study of linear equations and inequalities, systems of linear open sentences (algebraic and graphic solutions), linear functions, and relations, product and factors of polynomials, rational expressions, irrational and complex numbers, quadratic equations and functions, variation and polynomials equations, matrices, sequences, series, selected probability and statistics topics, and conic sections.Instruction will be provided using the graph calculator. A TI-83 or TI-84 is required for this course.Students can expect to do 35 - 40 minutes of homework each night. Tests and quizzes will be given for each unit. A midterm and final exam are integral parts of this course.RECOMMENDATION: Students should have a test average of 80% or better in level 1 Algebra I and level 1 Geometry.

Course Title Indicators: Rank Level AP Course Course Title Placement of Course in a Series (if applicable) Course #Example: 3 Algebra I 0805

Page 33: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

Penncrest High School

Page 32

A graphing calculator is needed to complete most tests and assignments.Recommendation: Student should have a test average of 70% or better in level 2 Algebra II.

2 STATISTICS Course #0816In this one semester honors course for seniors, the basic con-cepts of descriptive and inferential statistics will be explored. Topics covered will include organizing and describing data, a descriptive study of bivariate data, and a study of normal distri-butions. Students will also use the graphing calculator to make scatter plots, to determine lines of regression, to find measures of central tendency, etc. A brief introduction to the methodolo-gy of inferential statistics and/or probability distribution will be developed as time allows. A final exam is required in addition to the basic assessments of homework, tests, quizzes and projects required by the course. PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of Pre-Calculus with Trig.

2 CALCULUS Course #0817In this one-semester honors course for seniors, the operations of differentiation and integration as applied to algebraic and trigonometric functions will be developed. A brief introduction to integraton will be developed as time allows. The course tends to unify previous mathematics disciplines into a whole - as opposed to segmented parts - resulting in showing algebra, geometry, and trigonometry as basic tools of calculus.A final exam is required in addition to the basic assessments of homework, tests, quizzes, and projects required by the course. All students will complete a summer math packet and assessment that will count as one-half a test grade in the first marking period.PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of Pre-Calculus with Trig.

AP CALCULUS AB Course #0818This advanced placement course will include the study of two fundamental problems of Calculus: 1) finding the slope of the tangent to a curve which is determined by the derivative, and 2) finding the area of a region under a curve, or the volume within a curved surface of revolution, which is determined by the definite integral. The focus of study will include strategies for differentiation and integration of various functions (algebraic, trigonometric, and transcendental). Optimization techniques will be used to determine the maximum and minimum values of a data set and/or rate of change for a given data set. In the process, various elements of algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and pre-calculus will provide the basic mathematical tools for understanding advanced mathematics. A graphing calculator is required. Students may elect to take the ETS Calculus AB Advanced Placement Exam. All students are strongly advised to elect this course in their senior year to insure continuity into the college level sequence of Calculus courses.

Various assessments may include quizzes, tests, various as-sessments, quarterly exams, and final exam. All students will complete a summer math packet and assessment that will count

Course Title Indicators: Rank Level AP Course Course Title Placement of Course in a Series (if applicable) Course #Example: 3 Algebra I 0805

2 ALGEBRA II Course #0810This honors level course includes the study of linear equations and inequalities, systems of linear open sentences (algebraic and graphic solutions), linear functions and relations, product and factors of polynomials, rational expressions, irrational and complex numbers, quadratic equations and functions, variation and polynomial equations, matrices, sequences, series, and selected probability and statistics topics.Students can expect to do about 30 minutes of homework each night. Tests and quizzes will be given for each unit. A midterm and final exam are integral parts of this course. All students are required to have a TI-83 or TI-84 graphing calculator.RECOMMENDATION: Students should have a test average of 70% or better in level 2 Algebra I and level 2 Geometry.

3 ALGEBRA II Course #0811This college preparatory course includes the study of linear equations and inequalities, systems of linear open sentences (algebraic and graphic solutions), linear functions and rela-tions, product and factors of polynomials, irrational numbers, quadratics equations and functions, variation and polynomial equations, matrices, and selected probability and statistic topics. Homework will be checked regularly. Quizzes, tests, a midterm, and final examination are required assessments. A graphing calculator is required.PREQUISITE: Student must have successfully completed level 3 Algebra I and level 3 Geometry. (Juniors may elect to take this course concurrently with 3 Geometry)

1 PRE-CALCULUS WITH TRIGONOMETRY Course #0812This advanced level course will include the study of linear relations and functions, polynomial and rational functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, trigonometric functions, analytic trigonometry, polars and parametrics, and topics in analytical geometry. The course concludes with an introduction to Calculus which includes the concept of limits Quizzes, tests, quarterly exams, and final exam are all required assessments. All students are required to complete a summer math packet and assessment that will count as one-half of a test grade in the first marking period.Recommendation: Student should have a test average of 80% or better in level 1 Algebra II.

2 PRE-CALCULUS WITH TRIGONOMETRY Course #0814In this honors level course the students will study linear relations and functions, polynomial and rational functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, trigonometric functions, analytic trigonometry and introduction to partial fractions, and topics in analytical geometry including Conic Sections.The emphasis of this course will be a graphing approach to solving many of its problems.

Quizzes, tests, a midterm and final exam are all required assess-ments for this course. All students are required to complete a summer math packet and assessment that will count as one-half of a test grade in the first marking period.

Page 34: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

2015-2016 Course Selection Guide

Page 33

3 FUNCTIONS, STATISTICS, AND TRIGONOMETRY Course #0822This college prep course is an extension of the study of linear, quadratic, cubic, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions along with an introduction to circular and trigonometric functions. This course also focuses on problem solving strategies through the use of real world applications and also has SAT practice and strategies. The graphing calculator will be used to promote visualization of functions, to explore relationships between functions and their graphs, and to generalize and analyze data.A midterm and final exam are required for this course.Recommendation: Students should have successfully com-pleted Algebra II.

AP STATISTICS Course #0820This advanced placement course is a full-year course that will develop the concepts of descriptive and inferential statistics. The purpose of the AP course is to introduce students to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. Students are exposed to four broad themes: an exploration in describing patterns in data, planning and conducting a study through sampling and experimentation, exploring random phenomena including using probability, simu-lation and statistical inference (estimating populationparameters and testing hypotheses). Course content is aligned with the curriculum recommended by the Education Testing Service, and students may choose to take the AP Statistics exam adminis-tered in May by ETS.Students will be required to complete daily homework assignments. Recommendation: Students should have a test average of 80% or better in 1 Algebra II. Students will be required to have a TI-84+ calculator for this course. *Students who are double accelerated are STRONGLY advised to elect this course in their sophomore year to ensure the continuity of the high school and college Calculus courses.Students in this course are expected to take the AP exam. Stu-dents who elect not to take the AP exam must take the course final at the end of the year.

COMPUTER COURSES

2 WEBPAGE DESIGN Course #0828This year-long course will allow our students to design, create, and post their own website. Students are not required to have any prior web design experience. Our students will use tools available with Adobe CS6 to incorporate animation, photos, and video to the web. Students will be required to post individual and group projects. Projects will include websites for students, community organizations, teachers, and/or other entities of the Rose Tree Media School District. Recommendation: “B” in 2 Algebra I or Computer Science Department approval.

Course Title Indicators: Rank Level AP Course Course Title Placement of Course in a Series (if applicable) Course #Example: 3 Algebra I 0805

as one-half a test grade in the first marking period.Recommendation: Student should have a test average of 85% or better in level 1 Pre-Calculus with Trig. Students who do not meet this prerequisite should see their counselor about a waiver.*Students who are double accelerated in math are strongly ad-vised to elect this course in their senior year to insure continuity into the college calculus sequence of courses.Students in this course are expected to take the AP exam. Stu-dents who elect not to take the AP exam must take the course final at the end of the year.

AP CALCULUS BC Course #0821The content of this course includes the study of two fundamental problems of Calculus: 1) finding the slope of the tangent to a curve which is determined by the derivative, and 2) finding the area of a region under a curve, or the volume within a curved surface of revolution, which is determined by the definite inte-gral. The focus of study will include strategies for differentiation and integration of various functions (algebraic, trigonometric, and transcendental). Optimization techniques will be used to determine the maximum and minimum values of a data set and/or the rate of change for a given data set. In the process, various elements of algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and pre-calculus will provide the basic mathematical tools for understanding advanced mathematics. The AP Calculus BC course is more rigorous and covers additional topics as compared to the AP Calculus AB course.A graphing calculator will be required to complete some tests and homework assignments. Students may elect to take the ETS Calculus BC Advanced Placement Exam. Recommendation: Admission to course by teacher recommen-dation only. Students selected for this course will be required to complete a summer review packet as well as an additional unit from the textbook in preparation for a required assessment to be given the the first week of school. The instructor will hold a mandatory meeting in June to discuss the prerequisites. Students in this course are expected to take the AP exam. Stu-dents who elect not to take the AP exam must take the course final at the end of the year.

1 CALCULUS Course #0819In this advanced level course, the content and intent are the same as the AP Calculus AB course except that students will follow a less rigid discipline of study and a few topics are op-tional. A graphing calculator is required.Various assessments may include quizzes, tests, quarterlies, and final exam. All students will complete a summer math packet and assessment that will count as one-half a test grade in the first marking period.Recommendation: Students should have a test average of 80% or better in level 1 Pre-Calculus with Trig.

Page 35: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

Penncrest High School

Page 34

COMPUTER PROGRAMMING WITH JAVA Course #0829This year-long course is designed to introduce students to the world of computer programming and science. No prior programming experience is required. We will introduce object oriented programming using JavaScript through tools available with Khan Academy. Students will work interactively to complete projects that reinforce fundamental computer science principles. Students will move on to complete individual and group projects using the Java Programming language. This course will cover many similar topics as our AP Computer Science Course but will not be as rigorous. Students that would like to learn the fun-damental of computer programming should choose this course.

Recommendation: “B” in 2 Geometry or 1 Geometry or Com-puter Science Department approval.

AP COMPUTER SCIENCE A Course #0830This yearlong course is designed to be a first-year computer science course. Topics of study include hardware and software components, awareness of ethical and social responsibilities of computer science, data abstraction and encapsulation,

class specifications and relationships, reusable components of classes and class libraries, standard algorithms used in combi-nation with data structures to solve problems, and debugging and testing of programs. The class will use a combination of exercises obtained from the selected text, the College Board, and the tested Case Studies. Recommendation: “B” in 2 Algebra II or 1 Algebra II or Com-puter Science Department approval.Students in this course are expected to take the AP exam. Stu-dents who elect not to take the AP exam must take the course final at the end of the year.

1 ADVANCED COMPUTER SCIENCE Course #0831This course extends the concepts covered in our AP Comput-er Science course. Students should have completed the AP Computer Science with a grade of B or better. It emphasizes object-oriented programming methodology with a concentration on problem solving and algorithm development. It includes the study of one and two dimensional arrays, object oriented design, and advanced data structures such as trees, linked lists, sets, and maps.Recommendation: “B” in AP Computer Science A.

Page 36: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

2015-2016 Course Selection Guide

Page 35

MUSIC COURSESAt a Glance

Building Coordinator: Mr. Craig Snyder (610-627-6325)

Music courses at Penncrest fall into two categories: PERFOR-MANCE-BASED and NON-PERFORMANCE-BASED

PERFORMANCE BASED: Concert Band, Wind Ensemble, String Ensemble, Concert Choir, Upscale Singers, Ambassador Choir Performance based classes are co-curricular offerings, provide performance opportunities, and have required activities outside of the school day.

Students enrolled in performng ensembles will attend sectionals as part of their course requirements. Small group and individual instruction, as well as assessment, is administered during these rehearsals. Sectionals are scheduled as part of the student’s lunch period and do not impact the academic schedule.

2 CONCERT BAND Course #0902The mission of the Band program is the teaching of compre-hensive musicianship through performance. Comprehensive musicianship encompasses the attitudes and behaviors that are promoted by participation in band, the development of technical skills needed to play an instrument in both an individual and an ensemble setting, and the fostering of knowledge that enables one to appreciate and understand music as an art form. The application of comprehensive musicianship takes place in the daily rehearsal of the ensemble and culminates in concert per-formances of the music being rehearsed.

Some performances take place during the school day, while others are held on weeknights and weekends. Stu-dents should be aware that other classes will occasionally be missed for Band activities. All activities are mandatory for all members.All members of the Concert Band are also members of the Roaring Lions Marching Band. The Marching Band performs at various parades and community events throughout the year, as well as all football games. These activities are mandatory, as is summer band camp and after school rehearsals. Band members are responsible for purchasing certain items related to the uniform. A complete Band Handbook describes all band requirements in further detail.A successful audition and interview with the Band Direc-tor are required for membership in any of the Penncrest Bands.

1 CONCERT BAND Course #0901Students may choose to take Concert Band at rank level 1. Students who select the rank level 1 version will fulfill additional requirements which may include, but are not limited to: creative projects, research, preparation of more advanced literature, additional performances, or special projects related to the Band Mission Statement. Students entering ninth grade may apply for level one status through their current music teacher. An application is required along with an audition. Information and details are available through the Springton Lake music and guid-ance departments.

Graduation Requirements: Students may use Music courses to fulfill graduation requirements for Fine and Practical Arts or Electives.

Grade Level Course Description Length Rank Level

Concert Choir Full Year 1 or 2 Concert Band Full Year 1 or 2 String Ensemble Full Year 1 or 2 Upscale Singers Full Year 1 or 2 9, 10, 11, 12 Singers and Songwriters One Semester 2 Music Tech A One Semester 2 Music Tech B One Semester 2 Ambassador Choir Full Year 1 10, 11, 12 Wind Ensemble Full Year 1 Music Tech C Full Year 1 AP Music Theory Full Year AP

Course Title Indicators: Rank Level AP Course Course Title Placement of Course in a Series (if applicable) Course #Example: 2 String Ensemble I 0906

Page 37: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

Penncrest High School

Page 36

1 WIND ENSEMBLE Course #0903

The Wind Ensemble is open to 10th, 11th and 12th grade musicians who successfully complete an audition with the Director. Ensemble size is limited and enrollment is based on the instrumentation and balance of the ensemble. With the addition of the performance of more advanced literature, the description for Concert Band can also be used for Wind Ensemble. This includes mandatory participation in the Roaring Lions Marching Band as described above.

Recomendation: Prior instrumental training and experience, private lessons instruction, and ownership of a professional quality instrument.

2 STRING ENSEMBLE Course #0906This group meets every day for the full school year. As a member of the String Ensemble, a student will demonstrate proficiency in scales, technique studies, and sight reading. Rep-ertoire includes standard and contemporary orchestral literature. Special study units include basic conducting, transposition and scoring, acoustics, tuning and intonation, fundamentals of mu-sic, common musical terms, instrument care and maintenance. Attendance and participation in String Ensemble sectionals, performances, and concerts are mandatory for all members.Recommendation: Two or more years of orchestral experi-ence.

1 STRING ENSEMBLE Course #0905Students may choose to take String Ensemble at rank level 1. Students who select the rank level 1 version will fulfill additional requirements which may include, but are not limited to: creative projects, research, preparation of more advanced literature, additional performances, or special projects related to the course curriculum. Students entering ninth grade may apply for level one status through their current music teacher. An application is required along with an audition. Information and details are available through the Springton Lake music and guidance departments.

2 CONCERT CHOIR Course #0908Concert Choir provides performance opportunities for SATB and SSAATB choir through a broad, mixed repertoire of unison and part works, both accompanied and a cappella. Musical skills are developed through vocal technique, introduction to theory and ear training, sight singing, and ensemble performances. Stu-dents interested in Concert Choir should have previous choral experience and demonstrate a proficient ability to: match pitch with the piano in an appropriate vocal range, maintain accurate pitch while singing along or with others, read and sight sing music, demonstrate characteristic vocal quality.Students who wish to enroll in Concert Choir must complete and audition for placement in the following year. Ensemble size is limited due to the balance of SATB voice parts. Attendance and participation in choir sectionals, rehearsals and performances is mandatory.

Course Title Indicators: Rank Level AP Course Course Title Placement of Course in a Series (if applicable) Course #Example: 2 String Ensemble I 0906

1 CONCERT CHOIR Course #0907Students may choose to take CONCERT CHOIR at rank level 1. Students who select the rank level 1 version will fulfill ad-ditional requirements which may include, but are not limited to: creative projects, research, preparation of more advanced literature, additional performances, or special projects related to the course curriculum. Students entering ninth grade may apply for level one status through their current music teacher. An application is required along with an audition. Information and details are available through the Springton Lake music and guidance departments.

1 AMBASSADOR CHOIR Course #0910Ambassador Choir is open to 10th, 11th and 12th grade singer who successfully complete an audition with the Choral Direc-tor. Ensemble size is limited and enrollment is based on the vocal balance of the SATB choir. The repertoire performed in Ambassador Choir is more advanced and can include chamber music, vocal jazz, and musical theater selections. Aside from the difference in repertoire, the course description for Concert Choir can also be used for Ambassador Choir.

2 UPSCALE SINGERS Course #0909UpScale Singers is a treble choir that provides performance opportunities for SSA and SSAA choir through a broad, mixed repertoire of unison and part works, both accompanied and a cappella. Students learn correct singing techniques while experiencing a wide variety of four- part Soprano/Alto music. UpScale Singers is offered to all Soprano and Alto voice parts without audition. Boys whose voices are unchanged may also participate with the approval of the instructor. Musical skills are developed through vocal technique, introduction to theory and ear training, sight reading, and ensemble activities. Choral singing is a skill and is performance-oriented; therefore, each student is expected to complete all required assignments, to participate in all class activities, to attend sectional rehearsals regularly, and to attend all performances. Participants in any of the choral programs should be aware that other classes may occasionally be missed for special performances.

1 UPSCALE SINGERS Course #0916

Students may choose to take Upscale Singers at rank level 1. Students who select the rank level 1 version will fulfill additional requirements which may include, but are not limited to: creative projects, research, preparation of more advanced literature, additional performances, or special projects related to the Upscale Sigers curriculum.

Students entering 9th grade may apply for level one status through their current music teacher. An application is required along with an audition. Information and details are available through the Springton Lake music and guidance departments.

Page 38: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

2015-2016 Course Selection Guide

Page 37

Course Title Indicators: Rank Level AP Course Course Title Placement of Course in a Series (if applicable) Course #Example: 2 String Ensemble I 0906

NON-PERFORMANCE BASED MUSIC COURSES: Musical Theater, Music Theory and Composition, AP Music Theory, Computers in Music, Piano Non-Performance based classes are curricular offerings, do not provide performance opportunities, and do not have require-ments outside of the school day.

2 SINGERS AND SONGWRITERS Course #0940

A one semester course, Singers and Songwriters will en-able students to write music in both personal and collabo-rative ways. The class will utilize creative writing skills as well as musical instruction to achieve this. Students will also conduct research on the songwriters of the past 100 years, as well as the history of composition in a broad-er historical sense. Students will have opportunities to perform their works, or have others perform their works, in class as well as in a public setting.

2 MUSIC THEORY AND COMPOSITION Course # 0912 (NOT OFFERED 2015-2016)The goal of this course is the development of comprehensive musicianship through the theoretical study and analysis of the elements, structure, and design of music. Students will read, write, listen to, and perform music of various styles and time periods. Through such study, students may deepen their under-standing, enjoyment, and appreciation of music as an art form. Grades are based on the student’s achievement in daily drill and practice, ear training, keyboard skills, and sight singing. In addition, written work and two major projects will be evaluated each marking period.

2 MUSIC TECHThe advent of computer technology had, and continues to have, a significant impact on the creation and performance of music and the music industry. These semester long courses will utilize modern software and recording equipment as they explore the application of such technology to music. Students will learn the basics of sound production, sequencing and editing, and create original music using available resources. No prior experience in music is necessary. The course is sequential, beginning with Music Tech A, progressing to music Tech B, both semester courses, and culminating with Music Tech C which is a year long course offiered at rank level one. All coursework is contained in the timeframe of the classroom: there is no homework re-quirement, tests, or quizzes.

2 MUSIC TECH ACourse #0932

This one semester course introduces the student to current music recording, sequencing and editing tools and techniques. Topics to be explored are: Arranging and Editing, Basic Mixing, Programming Drum Machines and Sequencers, Use of Effects, Live Recording, Use of MIDI Controllers, Use of Loop Players, and wiriting original songs.

2 MUSIC TECH BCourse #0933Picks up where Music Tech A left off, and explores more of the theoretical side of writing music. Topics include: Using Tradi-tional Notation, Creation and Application of MIDI Files, Scale and Chord Relationships, Chord Progressions, Importing and Exporting, Basic Synth Programming, and advanced original song writing.

1 MUSIC TECH CCourse #0931

This year long course offered at rank level one develops concepts explored in the A and B classes. It may prepare the student for college or studio work in the topics explored which include: Gating and Sidechaining. Advanced Mixing and Filter Effects, Advanced Drum Programming, Advanced Synthesizing and Sampling, working with Vocals, Producing a Remix, and Sound Distortion and Destruction. Ample time is given to work on independently created projects in addition to self-guided research. A “B” average in Music Tech A and B is required for admission to Music Tech C.

2 MUSICAL THEATER (NOT OFFERED 2015-2016) Course #0930Open to all students. This course is designed for the student with little or no background in formal music instruction. The focus of the course will be to develop an understanding of the history of the American Musical, of the accomplishments of its star performers, best composers and librettists, and to develop a hands-on appreciation for all the aspects that go into creating a live musical show.

AP MUSIC THEORY Course #0913 The goal of AP Music Theory is to provide greater understand-ing of the music that we hear around us. We will consider how music is put together, what musical elements are in play, and why music sounds the way it does. We will study music termi-nology and notation, scale and chord construction, sight-reading and sight-singing of music, and form. These skills will enable students to develop their compositional, impro-visation, and performance abilities. The course utilizes written and aural exercises extensively, and allows the opportunity for students to compose and perform their own music digitally. Upon com-pletion of the course, students will be qualified to take the ETS Advanced Placement test in Music Theory. Students who are piano accompanists and those with previous singing and dancing experience are encouraged to elect this class. However, previous singing and dancing experience are not a prerequisite. A field trip to Broadway is planned, and stu-dents will also attend local musical productions. Fees for tickets to these productions will be the responsibility of each student as well as a small fee for a professional kit of stage make-up.

Page 39: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

Penncrest High School

Page 38

PHYSICAL EDUCATION & HEALTH COURSES At a Glance

Building Coordinator: Mrs. Theresa Long (610-627-6287)Graduation Requirements: All students must take four semesters of Physical Education and one semester of Health.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS - ALL 2-PERIOD PHYSICAL EDUCATION COURSESIn addition to the expectations listed for each grade and each course, the following minimum requirements apply to all 2-period Physical Education classes:

1) Students are required to participate in the fall fitness program.

2) Students will complete all Physical Fitness Tests. 3) Students are required to run the mile.4) Uniforms are required for all Physical Education classes.5) If a student has a written excusal from his/her parents,

it will be accepted and the student will not be made to change into his or her gym uniform. A parent’s note will be accepted for only one week’s excusal, after which a doctor’s note is required. If students require a program adaptation, they must have their doctor complete a form to that effect. Such students may be required to complete written assignments in lieu of physical activities.

0 PHYSICAL EDUCATION - GRADE 9 Course #0301/#0302 (Boys and Girls)The ninth grade Physical Education Program provides the student with knowledge, attitudes, appreciation, and skills in a variety of physical activities. The major emphasis in the ninth grade program is on physical fitness. Activities include: soccer, hockey, basketball, volleyball, lacrosse, track and field, and softball. Other activities, such as Fitness Testing and Yoga and Pilates are part of the program. Each activity includes skill development and skill teaching. All students may receive skill tests and written examinations in most of the activities that are taught. In addition, a reading assignment may be required during the course.

0 PHYSICAL EDUCATION - GRADE 10 Course #0304This basic course in Physical Education meets two periods per week. It provides the foundations for the student’s later skill development. The emphasis is on physical fitness and movement education during this important period of physical development. The curriculum includes weight-training, soccer, wrestling, volleyball, combatives, basketball, lacrosse, yoga, pilates, and aerobics. Each activity includes skill development and skill teaching. All students may receive skill tests and written examinations in most of the activities that are taught. In addi-tion, a reading assignment may be required during the course.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

0 PHYSICAL EDUCATION - GRADE 11 Course #0306 0 PHYSICAL EDUCATION - GRADE 12 Course #0308

Fitness is an underlying theme to all classes. Each activity includes skill development and assessment of knowledge. Students are required to complete fitness tests and a port-folio. The 11th grade portfolio relates to personal fitness scores. The 12th grade portfolio relates to fitness mainte-nance through adulthood.

Course Title Indicators: Rank Level AP Course Course Title Placement of Course in a Series (if applicable) Course #Example: 0 Physical Education 0301/0302

Grade Level Course Description Length Rank

9 Physical Education 9 Semester Unranked

10 Physical Education 10Health 10

Semester Semester Unranked

11

Physical Education OrPhysical Education Major IElectivesCoaching & Team Leadership

Semester

Full Year (5 days/week)

Semester

Unranked

2 or 3

2

12

Physical EducationORPhysical Education Major I, II, or III

ElectivesCoaching & Team Leadership

Semester

Full Year (5 days/week)

Semester

Unranked

2 or 3

2

Page 40: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

2015-2016 Course Selection Guide

Page 39

PHYSICAL EDUCATION ELECTIVES

3 MEN’S AND WOMEN’S PHYSICAL EDUCATION MAJOR I & II Course #0310/#0312/#0323/#0325This course is open to sophomores, juniors and seniors. This course is taken, within each year, as an elective to the required grade level P.E. course. It may not be taken to gain credit for failed P.E. courses. Because of the nature of this course, any student considering electing Physical Education Major should be willing to participate in a daily program of concentrated physical activity. Activities considered will fall into the following categories: life-time sports, team games, strength and condi-tioning activities.Costs associated with this course: purchase of MAJORS UNI-FORM to be worn in class and on field trips.Prerequisite: A student must have earned a final grade of out-standing in his/her previous year’s P.E. class. (All exceptions must be recommended by a P.E. Department faculty member and approved by the current P.E. Major instructor.) A student must have scored at least at the 50th percentile level in each of the Presidential Fitness Tests in his/her final marking period of the previous year. (All exceptions must be approved by the P.E. Department.)For a student to take the course more than once he/she must have earned a “B” or better in the previous year’s course. Stu-dents must be approved by the current P.E. Major instructor.General Requirements: The program requires participation in 90 percent of scheduled classes. Grades may be lowered by a lower percent attendance. Students must strive to score an average of 85 percent on A.A.H.P.E.R.D. fitness tests and maintain a B average on local fitness tests designed for majors. A positive attitude and active participation in all class activities is expected. All students are to be prepared for skill and/or written evaluations per unit. All students will be offered the opportu-nity to participate in field trips that may include: rock climbing, skirm, lazer tag, golf, skiing, archery, fitness centers/collegiate movement testing labs or others determined by the teaching staff in coordination with instructional units. All students will be asked to assist with the elementary school field/fitness day.Specific Requirement for Men’s Courses: Members of the men’s course must demonstrate, using correct form, 50 push-ups. Forty percent of each marking period grade will be based on effort given to and the demonstration of the proper use of the Bigger, Faster, Stronger Program. All basic course requirements must be completed. Additionally, individual selected reports and assignments must be completed.Specific Requirements for Women’s Courses: All students are required to complete a progressive fitness and strength-con-ditioning program.

2 MEN’S AND WOMEN’S PHYSICAL EDUCATION MAJOR I & II Course #0309/#0311/#0322/#0324Students may choose to take the MAJORS program at rank level 2. For those that wish to take the course as a rank level 2, all basic course requirements must be completed. Additionally, per marking period, student must submit an assigned written report, complete fitness tests and unit tests.

0 HEALTH - TENTH GRADE Course #0351Health is required of all sophomores, and a passing grade must be obtained to meet graduation requirements. Health meets five days a week for one semester and is graded on an A-to-E scale. It is a comprehensive program that provides an appreciation of the development of decision-making, social well-being, and mental and physical efficiency. This course is presented through a variety of techniques, including resource speakers, class lectures, notetaking, discussion, and audio-visual materials. The course directs its focus towards dealing with some of the major health issues confronting adolescents. There will also be enrichment units in First Aid, Nutrition, Cardiovascular Fitness, Body Systems, Mental Health, Conception and Development, Human Sexuality, Substance Abuse and Aging. Grades for each marking period will be based on at least one major exam and four other assessments, including quizzes, reports, projects, and homework. The student is expected to play an active and positive part in class discussions.Vo-Tech Students: You will take Physical Education and Health at the Vo-Tech campus, not at Penncrest.

SUMMER SCHOOL HEALTH and PHYSICAL EDUCATION, P.M. PHYSICAL EDUCATIONStudents entering grades 10, 11, or 12 who wish to make room on their schedules for additional courses may take Health or Physical Education outside the regular school day. Two options are recommended. The first is Summer School Health and Summer School Physical Education, which enable a student to fulfill the subsequent year’s requirements for Health and/or Physical Education in advance. A student may take one or both courses in the summer, and students must pay the regular summer school tuition to take advantage of this option. Another option, pending availability, is P.M. Physical Education, which meets one early evening a week for a double period. Enrollment is limited in the evening program and only students who meet eligibility requirements can be apply; eligible students are not guarabnteed access to P.M. P.E. There is a fee for Summer School and P.M. Physical Education.

2 COACHING AND TEAM LEADERSHIPCOURSE #0331This semester long course will help students interested in coaching or other leadership roles to: identify and develop a leadership philosophy; enhance communication and behavior management skills; learn tools for safely improving athletic performance through physical education and sport nutrition; understand legal responsibilities of coaching; and manage re-lationships with athletes, staff, officials, parents, and the media. Successful completion of this course may help students when/if their own children decide to play youth club sports. Enrollment is limited; priority will be given to students in grade 12.

Course Title Indicators: Rank Level AP Course Course Title Placement of Course in a Series (if applicable) Course #Example: 0 Physical Education 0301

Page 41: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

Penncrest High School

Page 40

SCIENCE COURSESAt a Glance

Building Coordinator: Mrs. Heather Ludwig (610-627-6297)Graduation Requirements: All students must take at least three science courses, including General Science and Biology.

Students must complete their 3 year requirement by the end of Junior year. All students must also achieve Proficiency either on the Keystone Examination in Biology OR on alternative state-mandated assessments.

ALL ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE I COURSESThis is a full-year course covering topics in environmental sci-ence, ecology, meteorology, geology, and other environmental topics and issues. The course will consist of readings from the text, lectures, class discussions, laboratory investigations, films, and homework assignments based on the text. The course will include a field study in early October based on ecological, environmental, and other course related topics. Within the basic Environmental Science Curriculum, three groupings or levels of instruction are provided, with groups formed on the basis of performance in eighth grade along with recommendations from eighth grade science teachers and the guidance counselor.

3 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE Course #1003In the level 3 course, students should expect three tests and an average of one quiz every chapter. At least two hours of home-work (study and written work) will be required each week. They are expected to read each chapter at the beginning of the unit and develop a vocabulary list. Mutiple laboratory investigations will be completed during the year. A carefully organized note-book, homework folder and assignment book must be maintained throughout the course.

2 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE Course #1002In the level 2 course, a minimum of three tests and quizzes will be given eachquarter. At least three hours of homework (study and written work) will be required each week. A minimum of 15 laboratory investigations will be completed during the year with a major lab report each quarter. There will be one major project per quarter. A well organized notebook and assignment book must be maintained throught the course.

1 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE Course #1001In the rank level 1 course, students are expected to spend a minimum of four hours per week on course homework. Student achievement will be evaluated in terms of at least two to three major tests, several quizzes, and appropriate laboratory reports each marking period. A test will follow each of the major units of study. In addition, tests and/or reports will be required fol-lowing the major laboratory and independent research topics each semester.

Course Title Indicators: Rank Level AP Course Course Title Placement of Course in a Series (if applicable) Course #Example: 2 Biology II 1015

Students who will only be taking 3 years of Science should do so during their Freshmen, Sophomore and Junior years, unless**Rising tenth grade students may elect to take AP Environmental Science if they meet grade prerequrisites and earn their teacher’s recommendation. Any tenth grade student who elects AP Physics 1 or AP Environmental Science must also take Biology 1 as required. ***Any student who does not reach Proficiency on the Keystone Exam in Biology in 10th grade may be placed in Level 2 or 3 Integrated Science.

Grade Level AP Rank 1 Rank 2 Rank 3

9 1 Environmental Science 2 Environmental Science 3 EnvironmentalScience

10AP Physics IAP Environmental

Science**

1 Biology I (required)1 Chemistry(with teacher recommendation)

2 Biology I 3 Biology I

11 AP ChemistryAP BiologyAP Environmental

ScienceAP Physics IAP Physics C

1 Chemistry 2 Chemistry2 Physics2 Integrated Science

3 Integrated Science

12 AP ChemistryAP BiologyAP Environmental

ScienceAP Physics IAP Physics C

1 Biology II1 Chemistry

2 Chemistry2 Physics2 Biology II

3 STS

Page 42: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

2015-2016 Course Selection Guide

Page 41

AP ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCECourse #1020Laboratory and field investigations are emphasized as students explore the abiotic environment, the biota and the complex interactions between them that characterized living systems. Students analyze environmental problems, evaluate risks, and investigate ways tot prevent and/or solve environmental prob-lems. Topics investigated include earth systems (atmosphere, lithosphere, and hydrosphere); human impact on earth systems; populations, communities, ecosystems and biomes; biodiversity; energy flow and materials’ cycling; evolution and geological history; human history and influences; location, quantity and extraction of natural resources; natural and anthropogenic environmental changes; environmental economics and policy, and choices for the future.Mathematical and computer modeling of various processes augment student understanding of the concepts. Analysis and comparison of articles from the professional literature expand and test students’ comprehension of the concepts. Formal scientific writing and presentation develop students’ abilities to communicate the concepts.Recommendation: Students must have received a “B” or better in Level 1 Environmental Science and have completed Biology I and either Chemistry or Physics.Students in this course are expected to take the AP exam. Stu-dents who elect not to take the AP exam must take the course final at the end of the year.Tenth grade students may elect to take AP Environmental Science if they meet grade prerequisites (94 or higher in each quarter of 1 Environmental Science AND 1 Algebra II) and earn their Environmental Science teacher’s recommendation. Any tenth grade student who elects AP Environmental Science must also take Biology 1 as required. Eligible rising tenth-grade stu-dents must see their counselor to select this option.

ALL BIOLOGY I COURSESBiochemistry, genetics, evolution, cells, taxonomy and ecology are investigated by students using laboratory explorations and class discussions to consider the “how and what” of living things as they interact with each other and their environments. Three levels of instruction are provided, with each group formed based on recommendations from the ninth grade science teacher and guidance counselor.

3 BIOLOGY I Course #1007

This course will cover units on the characteristics of life, biochemistry, DNA and protein synthesis, cellular reproduction, genetics, evolution, cells, cellular respiration, photosynthesis, and ecology. Students can expect homework an average of three nights each week. Quizzes will be given every other week. Students are given guided notes. Several laboratory investigations will be carried out each chapter, and some marking periods may feature a project as well. Students will prepare to take the Keystone Exam in Biology given in May.

2 BIOLOGY I Course #1006

This course will cover units on the characteristics of life, biochemistry, DNA and protein synthesis, cellular reproduction, genetics, evolution, cells, cellular respiration, photosynthesis, and ecology. Quizzes can be expected weekly. Homework may be assigned nightly and consist of written work, reading, and/or study. Students should expect one project per marking period relating to the current topic of study. Students will complete laboratory investigations throughout the year as well. Students will prepare to take the Keystone Exam in Biology given in May.

1 BIOLOGY I Course #1005

This course will cover units on the characteristics of life, biochemistry, DNA and protein synthesis, cellular reproduction, genetics, evolution, cells, cellular respiration, photosynthesis, and ecology. For each major unit of study, students must prepare an approved form of study material to aid in preparing for the Keystone Exam in Biology given in May. Tests are given in multiple choice and essay format, mirroring the format on the Keystone Exam. Students can expect 1-2 major lab reports each marking period in addition to several other labs. Some marking periods may also involve a project. A calendar will be provided at the start of every major unit. Students should expect some form of homework nightly.

AP BIOLOGY Course #1016This course is open to juniors and seniors who have completed Biology I, and who wish to take the AP Exam in Biology. The course covers the concepts and labs set forth in the AP cur-riculum determined by ETS. This course is comparable to 2 semesters of Intro to Biology in college. Recommendation Biology 1 (“B” or better in a level 1 or above Biology I course recommended) Students in this course are expected to take the AP exam. Stu-dents who elect not to take the AP exam must take the course final at the end of the year.

1 BIOLOGY II: Human BiologyCourse #1021Level 1 Biology II will elaborate basic concepts of the Biology I course work using Human Anatomy and Physiology as the unifying theme. The course sequence will include in-depth study of Biochemistry, Histology and a survey of the eleven major Body Organ Systems, from the molecular level to the organis-mal level. A large emphasis will be placed on the physiology of the human organism. This class will emulate the course load and rigor associated with comparable college level offerings. The course will only be offered to Seniors who have earned a minimum grade of B in Biology I. Student grading will include assigned readings with outlines, section quizzes, multiple dissections with laboratory reports, and heavily weighted tests. Students should expect a minimum of four hours per week outside of class to complete assigned work.

Course Title Indicators: Rank Level AP Course Course Title Placement of Course in a Series (if applicable) Course #Example: 2 Biology II 1015

Page 43: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

Penncrest High School

Page 42

2 BIOLOGY II: Human Biology Course #1015

Level 2 Biology II will elaborate basic concepts of the Biology I course work using Human Anatomy and Physiology as the unifying theme. The course sequence will include a study of the human body, from the molecular level to the organismal level. Emphasis will be placed upon human anatomy and functions of the systems of the body. This second year Biology class will use a college level textbook. It is recommended that students have a B or better in Level 2 Biology 1 for the successful completion of this course.

Student grading will include assigned readings with outlines, section quizzes, multiple dissections with laboratory reports, and heavily weighted tests. Students should expect a minimum of three to four hours per week outside of class to complete assigned work.

ALL PHYSICS COURSESThese courses follow Giancoli’s Physics (5th edition). Prereq-uisite math courses include Algebra I and Geometry. Subject matter to be investigated includes classical mechanicsThe courses meet for 6 periods each week. Exams are administered after each major unit; an exam can be expected every three or four weeks. Each exam has a timed, in-class component and a take-home component. Other assessments include selected homework assignments on webassign, objective quizzes, and practical engineering projects (one per marking period). The course content is sequential, especially for the first three mark-ing periods; therefore a well-ordered notebook and a folder or three-ring binder for returned assessments is essential.

AP PHYSICS ICourse #1009

The level 1 Physics course has undergone a name change only; the College Board will administer a new AP exam starting 2014-2015, and the existing level 1 curriculum is well-aligned with the requirements for this exam. Prerequisite math courses include Algebra I and Geometry. It is strongly suggested as well that Algebra II be completed before enrolling in 1 Physics. The subject matter includes classical (Newtonian) mechanics, waves and oscillations, sound, electrostatics, and rudimentary DC circuits. The course focuses on problem-solving using multiple techniques. Grading is based on a weighted category system, whereby exams and quizzes collectively make up 60% of the grade, and all other assignments (weekly homework, labs, classwork, etc.) make up the remaining 40%. Homework is administered weekly through an online platform called WebAssign. Weekly assignments are substantial and rigorous. Laboratory experiments are conducted and completed in class. Course content is largely sequential; therefore an organized notebook (electronic or physical) is required. This course will prepare students for the Advanced Placement Physics 1 exam in May. This course will prepare students for either University Physics I or the Advanced Placement Physics C course in mechanics. This course uses Giancoli’s Physics (5th edition).

2 PHYSICS I Course #1010The level 2 version of this course differs from AP Physics1 only in the difficulty level of the problems presented. The course content is identical. Laboratory experiments are conducted and written up in class. Practical engineering projects are optional for the level 2 course, and students can earn extra credit for attempting them.

AP PHYSICS C—MECHANICS Course #1011Students who have successfully completed AP Physics 1 are eligible to consider AP Physics C. Prerequisite math courses include everything up to and including Algebra II. Concurrent pre-calculus or calculus is strongly encouraged. This is the equivalent of calculus-based University Physics I for scientists and engineers. The subject matter includes calculus-based classical mechanics; kinematics in 1, 2, and 3 dimensions, Newton’s Laws, work and energy, systems of particles, rotation and rolling, oscillations, and gravitation. The course focuses on problem-solving using multiple techniques. Grading is based on a weighted category system, whereby exams and quizzes collectively make up 75% of the grade, and all other assignments (weekly homework, labs, classwork, etc.) make up the remaining 25%. Homework is administered weekly through an online platform called WebAssign. Weekly assign-ments are substantial and rigorous. Laboratory experiments are conducted and completed in class. Exams are conducted over a two-day period to model the AP exam, with multiple-choice items and free-response items. Course content is focused on material listed in the AP course guide published by the College Board. Students enrolled in the course are expected to take the AP exam.

3 INTEGRATED SCIENCE Course #1019This course is designed for 11th grade students who excel in hands on classrooms. The course is project and lab driven but does include formal assessments throughout the year. Topics will be presented briefly in lecture form, and then several labs/activities will take place during most weeks to reinforce the information. Students will be learning about chemistry, physics and experimental design. Student participation and presence in class is essential to the completion course. Weekly assessments are given, 2 exams are given per quarter as well as a mid term and a final. These grades are balanced by several lab grades, homework assign-ments and projects. Course may be taken Junior year only.

2 INTEGRATED SCIENCE Course #1018This course is designed for 11th grade students who excel in hands on classrooms who do not choose Chemistry or Physics. The course is project and lab driven but does include formal as-sessments throughout the year. Topics will be presented briefly in lecture form, and then several labs/activities will take place during most weeks to reinforce the information. Students will be learning about chemistry, physics and experimental deisgn.Student participation and presence in class is essential to the completion course. Daily readings and assignments, weekly assessments, 3 exams are given per quarter as well as a mid term and a final comparable to a Level 2 course. There are also quarterly independent projects that correlate with the units covered. Overall grades are computed from the above assessments plus several lab grades, homework assignments and projects.Course may be taken Junior year only. Students cannot take course if taking Chemistry or Physics.

Course Title Indicators: Rank Level AP Course Course Title Placement of Course in a Series (if applicable) Course #Example: 2 Biology II 1015

Page 44: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

2015-2016 Course Selection Guide

Page 43

Course Title Indicators: Rank Level AP Course Course Title Placement of Course in a Series (if applicable) Course #Example: 2 Biology II 1015

****Any student who does not reach Proficiency on the Keystone Exam in Biology in 10th grade may be placed in Level 2 or 3 Integrated Science. The first quarter of both will include activ-ities to reinforce key concepts included on the Keystone Exam.

3 SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY IN SOCIETY Course #1017

As humans, technology affects our everyday lives. Through this course, students will discover the impact of discoveries and inventions in the topics of Newton’s Law (rocketry), atomic chemistry, nuclear chemistry, engineering, and aeronautics. STS is offered to 12th grade students at rank level 3. Each unit will include multiple short and long-term projects. There will also be several quizzes and a test at the end of each topic.

All CHEMISTRY 1 COURSES

Chemistry is the study of a matter and all changes it undergoes. All Chemistry 1 courses will cover the fundamental topics of atomic structure, chemical formulas and equations, gas laws, stoichiometry, thermochemistry, electronic structure and the periodic table, chemical solutions, bonding, and intermolecular attractions. In addition, theoretical and descriptive material which shows the relationship between the structure and prop-erties of matter will be covered. Written lab reports, completed outside of class as homework, are a component of all chemistry coursework.

1 CHEMISTRY 1 Course #1012Level 1 Chemistry will explore the topics in extensive detail, with a focus on the theoretical basis underlying the relationship between atomic structure and the behavior of matter. Emphasis will also be placed on both modern applications of Chemistry and the mathematical relationships in Chemistry. As such, students should be proficient in Algebra for the successful completion of this course. Student achievement and progress are measured through a minimum of 3 major tests each marking period; quizzes will be given approximately once per week. Laboratory investigations will be completed during the course, and formal written lab re-ports will be required at least once per marking period for each; in addition, several informal reports of laboratory work will be required per marking period. This course is the recommended course as the prerequisite for AP Chemistry.Recommendation: Students should have earned a grade of B or better in level 1 Algebra II. Students in level 2 Algebra II concurrently should have earned these grades in Algebra I. Students who do not meet this criteria should meet with their counselor, as success in Algebra strongly correlates to success in Chemistry.

2 CHEMISTRY 1 Course #1013Level 2 Chemistry will explore the basic concepts of Chemistry, with a focus on the daily applications of Chemistry in modern society. A good comprehension of basic Algebra is necessary for the successful completion of this course. There is extensive use of drill and practice sheets to reinforce learning.Student achievement and progress are measured through a minimum of 2 major tests each marking period; quizzes will be given approximately once per week. Weekly laboratory inves-tigations will be completed during the course, and there will be reports required for several labs each marking period.Recommendation: Students should have earned a grade of C or better in level 2 Algebra II. Students taking Algebra II concurrently should have earned a B- or better in level 2 Algebra I. Students who do not meet this criteria should meet with their counselor, as math performance strongly correlates to success in Chemistry.

AP CHEMISTRY Course #1014A college-level chemistry textbook will serve as the basic reference for this course. The following topics will be studied: atomic structure, chemical formulas and equations, the gaseous state and the gas laws, chemical reactions and stoichiometry, thermochemistry, electronic structure and the periodic table, the chemical bonds, solutions and colloids, oxidation reduction and electrochemistry, chemical kinetics, and chemical equilib-rium.There will be two major exams a quarter, regular rigorous homework, and 25% or more class time in lab.This course is intended for the serious student who desires a strong foundation in chemistry. Students who select this course should count on studying the above topics at a level which is comparable in content and difficulty to other Advanced Place-ment courses. Students taking this course will be encouraged to take the ETS Advanced Placement Exam in May.Homework problems and questions will be assigned daily. Labo-ratory work is performed weekly and written reports are required.Recommendation: B or better in 1 Chemistry I

Students in this course are expected to take the AP exam. Stu-dents who elect not to take the AP exam must take the course final at the end of the year.

Page 45: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

Penncrest High School

Page 44

SOCIAL STUDIES COURSESAt a Glance

Building Coordinator: Mr. Benjamin Danson (610-627-6243)Graduation Requirements: All students must take four years of Social Studies.

One of these must be Modern America or AP US.

In 11th or 12th grade, students may choose a second Social Studies course as an elective.* These courses fufill the graduation requirement. **Rising tenth grade students may take these AP courses only with a teacher recommendation and prerequisites met. Stu-dents may not waiver into these courses. See the Course Description for information.

Course Title Indicators: Rank Level AP Course Course Title Placement of Course in a Series (if applicable) Course #Example: 2 Global Studies 0202

9th GRADE SOCIAL STUDIES

3 GLOBAL STUDIES 9, Course #0203 2 GLOBAL STUDIES 9, Course #0202 1 GLOBAL STUDIES 9, Course #0201The freshman course examines five cultures of the world: the Middle East, India, China, Latin America, and sub-Saharan Africa. The level 3 course includes additional cultures. Within the study of each culture, topics will include geography, history, social structure, economics, religion, and government. In ad-dition to the textbook, a variety of supplemental materials will be used including: readings, videos, computer presentations, and cultural objects. All levels will study the same fundamen-tal content with adjustments made for reading and skill levels. Novels used may include The Good Earth, Persopolis, Things Fall Apart, Nectar in a Sieve, Colors of the Mountain, and The Red Scarf Girl. Middle school Social Studies teachers will make recommendations as to appropriate course level placement.

10th GRADE SOCIAL STUDIES

1 EARLY AMERICA 10, Course #0205 2 EARLY AMERICA 10, Course #0206 3 EARLY AMERICA 10, Course #02071 EUROPEAN HISTORY 10, Course #02092 EUROPEAN HISTORY 10, Course #0211 3 EUROPEAN HISTORY 10, Course #0213

3 EARLY AMERICA 10This semester-long, college preparatory course will highlight the themes of American History from the French & Indian War through the Civil War and Reconstruction, as well as themes of American geography. This course is designed to prepare students for post-high school educational opportunities by developing reading, writing, and critical thinking skills. Assign-ments will include teacher-directed study, guided readings, and note-taking skills. Supplemental readings may be assigned at the discretion of the teacher. Students must realize that a regi-men of regular study and average ability in reading and writing skills are required in order to achieve success at this level. There will be a final exam at the end of the course.

Grade Rank Level AP Rank 1 Rank 2 Rank 3 Level

9 1 Global Studies 2 Global Studies 3 Global Studies 10 1 Early America/ 2 Early America/ 3 Early America/ European History European History European History Electives: AP European History** AP United States History** AP Economics AP Government/Politics 1 Modern America* 2 Modern America* 3 Modern America* 11 AP United States History* AP European History AP Economics 1 Philosophy/International 2 Government/Economics AP Government/Politics Relations 2 Philosophy/International 3 Civics:Government 12 AP United States History* Relations and Economics AP European History Electives: Electives: in Action 1 Sociology (sem) 2 Sociology (sem) 1 American Civil War (sem) 2 American Civil War (sem)

Page 46: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

2015-2016 Course Selection Guide

Page 45

Course Title Indicators: Rank Level AP Course Course Title Placement of Course in a Series (if applicable) Course #Example: 2 Global Studies 0202

2 EARLY AMERICA 10This semester-long honors course will examine events in Amer-ican History from the French & Indian War through the Civil War and Reconstruction. This is a college-preparatory course that will emphasize note-taking and study skills. A variety of assess-ments will be used. Supplemental readings will be assigned at the discretion of the instructor. Students must realize that a regimen of regular study and above average ability in reading and writing skills are required in order to achieve success at this level. Written homework will be assigned as needed.

1 EARLY AMERICA 10This semester-long course will examine events in American History from the French & Indian War through the Civil War and Reconstruction. This is an enriched and accelerated offering. The student can expect a series of major exams and periodic quizzes. The novel for this level is The Killer Angels and teach-ers will select other ancillary readings as well. Note-taking and study skills will be emphasized. Students must realize that a regimen of regular study and advanced reading and writing skills are required in order to achieve success at this level. Written homework will be assigned as needed.

3 EUROPEAN HISTORYThis semester-long, college preparatory course will highlight themes of Modern European history, from the Industriall Revo-lution through World War II. This course will focus on building essential Social Studies skills, such as critical reading, writing, and note-taking through a variety of teaching strategies and student activities. In addition to the textbook, teacher-selected supplemental readings will be assigned. Students must realize that a regimen of regular study and average ability in reading and writing skills are required in order to achieve success at this level.

2 EUROPEAN HISTORYThis semester-long course will cover the following periods in Modern European history: Renaissance, Reformation, Scientific Revolution, Enlightenment, French Revolution, Napoleonic Era, Industrial Revolution, the rise of nationalism and the unification of Italy and Germany, Imperialism, World War I, Russian Rev-olution, the rise of totalitarianism between the wars, and World War II. In addition to the textbook, any of the following books may be assigned: Nicholas and Alexandra, All Quiet on the Western Front, The Moon is Down, and/or A Tale of Two Cities. Students must realize that a regimen of regular study and above average ability in reading and writing skills are required in order to achieve success at this level.

1 EUROPEAN HISTORYThis semester-long course will cover the following periods in Modern European history: Renaissance, Reformation, Scientific Revolution, Enlightenment, French Revolution, Napoleonic Era, Industrial Revolution, the rise of nationalism and the unifica-tion of Italy and Germany, Imperialism, World War I, Russian Revolution, the rise of totalitarianism between the wars, and World War II. In addition to the textbook, any of the following books may be assigned: Nicholas and Alexandra, All Quiet on the Western Front, The Moon is Down, and/or A Tale of Two Cities. Students must realize that a regimen of regular study and advanced reading and writing skills are required in order to achieve success at this level.

11th GRADE SOCIAL STUDIES

3 MODERN AMERICA, Course #0214 2 MODERN AMERICA ,Course #0212 1 MODERN AMERICA, Course #0210

3 MODERN AMERICAThis year-long, college preparatory course will study 20th Cen-tury U.S. History from a variety of perspectives. Geographic, economic, political, social, and demographic trends will be traced chronologically in order to provide students with an un-derstanding of how American society developed over the course of the last century to become the world leader we are today. The course will cover events beginning with an examination of Immigration and Industrialization at the turn of the last century and will highlight key events from throughout the 20th century up to today. In addition to the textbook, a variety of enrichment readings, both fiction and non-fiction, will be assigned. There will be a midterm exam as well as a final exam. Students must realize that a regimen of regular study and average ability in reading and writing skills are required in order to achieve suc-cess at this level.

2 MODERN AMERICAThis year-long, honors course will study 20th Century U.S. History from a variety of perspectives. Geographic, economic, political, social, and demographic trends will be traced chrono-logically in order to provide students with an understanding of how American society developed over the course of the last century to become the world leader we are today. Beginning with an examination of The Gilded Age,Industrialization, Im-migration, the Progressive Era and World War I (1900-1920), and continuing with an overview of the Roaring Twenties and the Great Depression (1920-1940), the course will explore the impact of World War II as the culmination of social, political, military, and economic events of the first half of the century. Then, the course will examine post-war America through a look at such developments as the Cold War, the Civil Rights Move-ment, and the turbulent Sixties. Finally, the course will review American society to the present. In addition to the textbook, a variety of enrichment readings—both fiction and non-fiction—will be offered. There will be midterm exam as well as a final exam. Students must realize that a regimen of regular study and above average ability in reading and writing skills are required in order to achieve success at this level.

1 MODERN AMERICAThe level 1 offering in Modern America will follow a similar chronology to that of the level 2 and 3 versions of the course. An additional emphasis will be place on the examination of American history from a multi-faceted approach. Course content will include outside readings to complement the textbook. Stu-dents will develop a variety of skills used by historians, including analysis, research, synthesis, and organization. There will be more independent work required for the level 1 course. The course will emphasize close, careful reading of both primary and secondary sources and will feature a variety of writing assignments. There will be a midterm exam as well as a final exam. Students must realize that a regimen of regular study and advanced reading and writing skills are required in order to achieve success at this level.

Page 47: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

Penncrest High School

Page 46

Course Title Indicators: Rank Level AP Course Course Title Placement of Course in a Series (if applicable) Course #Example: 2 Global Studies 0202

12th GRADE SOCIAL STUDIES

The 12th grade Social Studies program in Level 1 offers a pair of semester courses: 1 International Relations and 1 Introduction to Philosophy. Level 2 consists of two pairs of semester courses: 2 American Government/2 Economics or 2 International Relations/2 Introduction to Philosophy. In Level 3, students will take Civics: Government and Economics in Action!, a full-year course that is designed to prepare students for college-level work in the social sciences and for responsible financial engagement as adlts and effective participation in our democracy.

Additionallly, two semester-long elective courses are offered for seniors: Sociology and The Civil War. These courses are offered at both Level 1 and Level 2 but must be taken as electives; they do not replace the required 12th grade course offerings.

3 CIVICS: GOVERNMENT AND ECONOMICS IN ACTION! Course #0225 & Course #0226Civics: Government and Economics in Action! is a full year, college preparatory course. In one semester, students will learn about American government. They will study the fun-damental principles of the US Constitution; will learn about the branches of government and their interaction through the system of checks and balances; will analyze the relationship between federal, state, and local governments; will gain an understanding of the two-party system; and will learn about the legislative process. As a result, students will be prepared to be effective citizens and informed voters. Along with the textook, there will be attention paid to current events.

In the other semester, students will learn about personal finan-cial literacy in order to give them valuable preparation for future financial success. The course will emphasize the management of money, smart decision-making in real-life situations, and what can be expected in future employment. During the semester students will learn how to manage a retirement account (401K) as if they were investing in the stock market. Other units of study include budgeting, personal finance, spending and credit, income and careers, insurance, banking, and an overall emphasis on personal financial literacy. Some math skills are necessary for this course. There will be a final exam at the end of the course. Students must realize that a regimen of regular study and average ability in reading and writing skills are required in order to achieve success at this level.

2 AMERICAN GOVERNMENT Course #0222This college-prep American Government, one-semester course will give students an expanded understanding of their country’s political system and the structure of government. Students will begin by examining different systems of government in order to understand how the United States system differs from others. Other topics of study will include the Constitution, federalism, the branches of government, the political parties, and the role of special interest groups and the media in shaping public opinion. Elections and campaigns, including campaign financing, will also be studied. Class discussions will highlight current issues and social and economic problems. As a result of this class, students will be better prepared to participate in the democratic

process as informed voters. There will be a final exam at the end of the semester. Students must realize that a regimen of regular study and above average ability in reading and writing skills are required in order to achieve success at this level.

2 ECONOMICS Course #0224Economics is a one-semester, honors course that offers a brief introduction unit followed by the following units of study: Sup-ply and Demand, Comparative Economic Systems, Taxation, Monetary Policy, Fiscal Policy, the Federal Reserve System, Proprietorships, Partnerships, Corporations, the Stock market, Economic Theorist, and International Economics. There will be a final exam at the end of the semester, Students must real-ize that a regimen of regular study and above average ability in reading and writing skills are required in order to achieve success at this level.

2 INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS Course #0223

International Relations is the study of relationships between countries, including the role of international organizations such as the United Nations. A particular area of study within international relations is foreign policy. Students will learn how American foreign policy affects the international system and how these policies are created. This course focuses on the central concerns of international relations-diplomacy, nuclear proliferation, terrorism and global development. There will be a final exam at the end of the semester. Students must realize that a regimen of regular study and above average ability in reading and synthesizing skills are required in order to achieve success at this level.

2 INTRODUCTION TO PHILOSOPHY Course #0221This semester-long, honors course is designed to provide a general exposure to various areas of philosophy. Students will examine western philosophy both thematically and chronolog-ically, with a focus on those areas most commonly covered in college courses. Class discussions based on assigned readings will be the primary activity during this course, with several short papers and examinations assigned throughout the semester. Materials include the textbook (Wolff’s About Philosophy) and the novel Sophie’s World. There will be a final exam at the end of the semester. Students must realize that a regimen of regular study and above average ability in reading and writing skills are required in order to achieve success at this level.

1 INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS Course #0219See above description for 2 IR. The level 1 offering will include additional readings and written assignments. Students must realize that a regimen of regular study and advanced reading and writing skills are required in order to achieve success at this level.

1 INTRODUCTION TO PHILOSOPHY Course #0217See above description for 2 Philosophy. The level 1 offering will include additional readings and written assignments. Students must realize that a regimen of regular study and advanced reading and writing skills are required in order to achieve suc-cess at this level.

Page 48: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

2015-2016 Course Selection Guide

Page 47

Course Title Indicators: Rank Level AP Course Course Title Placement of Course in a Series (if applicable) Course #Example: 2 Global Studies 0202

1 SOCIOLOGY2 SOCIOLOGYCourse #0229Course #0230Sociology is the study of social life, social change, and the social causes and consequences of human behavior. In this one semester elective course, students will focus on human behavior in families, religious groups, local communities, and in the broader society. Students will examine such topics as cultural conformity, deviance, adolescent socialization, racial and ethnic relations, and gender. Class discussions based on assigned readings will be the primary activity during this course, with several short reaction papers and examinations assigned throughout the semester. Students must realize that a regimen of regular study and above average ability in reading and synthesizing skills are required in order to achieve success at this level. Beyond the level 2 requirements described above, rank level 1 requirements include a research project and additional papers assigned throughout the semester.

1 THE AMERICAN CIVIL WAR 2 THE AMERICAN CIVIL WAR Course #0242Course #0243This semesterized elective course open to seniors strives to increase student knowledge and understanding of the Amer-ican Civil War, the pivotal event that shaped America for the modern era.Students will cover the content of the coure across six units: Background, Leaders, Battles, Social Changes, Lincoln, and Aftermath. Students will utilize a varity of written and on-line primary and secondary sources, among them Jay Winik’s April 1865: The Month That Saved America. In addition to content, students will develop the skills necessary for academic success in college, including writing, analytical, and research skills.Students electing to take this course for Level 1 credit will com-plete additional and more sophisticated assignments.

AP COURSESThe Social Studies department offers four Advanced Place-ment courses, in U.S. History, European History, American Government and Politics, and Micro/Macro Economics. These courses are full-year courses and are open to 11th and 12th grade students. They may be taken in lieu of the regular grade-level offerings or as electives. As a graduation requirement, all students must take either 11th grade Modern America or AP US History.

***Students in these courses are expected to take the AP exam. Students who elect not to take the AP exam must take the course final at the end of the year.

AP UNITED STATES HISTORY Course # 0231 ***AP US History is designed to provide students with a compre-hensive survey of the events constituting the history of the Unit-ed States from colonization to the turn of the 21st century. The course will trace social, political, economic and demographic developments in a chronological approach.

AP US History will be taught in a college format. Students and guest presenters will also provide information to the class. Students who elect AP US History should possess advanced reading and writing skills, a willingness to complete assigned work faithfully, and an eagerness to explore the heritage of their country. There will be regular supplemental reading assignments in addition to the use of the textbook. Students will be strongly encouraged to take the Advanced Placement exam in US History as a natural culmination of the course, and the skills required to succeed on that exam will be emphasized throughout the year. Students electing AP US History will be assigned summer reading and will be tested on that work within the first few days of class.Tenth graders may take this course instead of their required tenth grade core course if they meet the grade prerequisite (94 or higher each quarter in 9th grade level 1 English AND level 1 Global Studies) and are recommended by their 9th grade Social Studies teacher. Eligible rising tenth-grade students must see their counselor to select this option.

AP EUROPEAN HISTORY Course #0232 ***AP European History is designed to provide students with a survey of the cultural, diplomatic, economic, intellectual, political, and social history of Europe from the High Renaissance to the recent past. The goals of the course are to develop an under-standing of the principle themes in modern European history, an ability to analyze historical evidence, and an ability to analyze and express historical understanding in writing. Primary sources will be studied and analyzed. Test questions will model the AP format in multiple choice and interpretive es-say questions. Students electing AP European History should possess advanced reading and writing skills, a willingness to complete assigned work faithfully, and intellectual curiosity. Skills required to succeed on the AP Exam will be emphasized throughout the year. Students electing AP European History will be assigned summer reading.Tenth graders may take this course instead of their required tenth grade core courses if they meet the grade prerequisite (94 or higher each quarter in 9th grade level 1 English AND level 1 Global Studies) and are recommended by their 9th grade Social Studies teacher. Eligible rising tenth-grade students must see their counselor to select this option.

Page 49: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

Penncrest High School

Page 48

AP US GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS (Grades 11 & 12) Course #0233 ***The AP course in US Government and Politics will give students an analytical perspective on government and politics in the United States through a political science approach. The course includes both the study of general concepts used to interpret US politics and the analysis of specific examples of these concepts in current affairs. It also develops familiarity with the various institutions, groups, beliefs, and values that constitute the US political system. Students will become acquainted with a variety of theoretical perspectives and explanations for various behaviors and outcomes.Students successfully completing this course will know import-ant facts, concepts, and theories pertaining to US government and politics; understand typical patterns of political processes and behaviors and their consequences; and be able to analyze and interpret data relevant to US government and politics. The course covers the following six units: 1. Constitutional Underpin-nings of US Government; 2. Political Beliefs and Behaviors; 3. Political Parties, Interest Groups, and Mass Media; 4. Institutions of National Government; 5. Public Policy; and 6. Civil Rights and Civil Liberties. As a natural outcome of the course, students will be prepared to perform well on the Advanced Placement exam in US Government and Politics, and it is expected that students will opt to sit for the exam when it is offered. There is a summer reading requirement for students electing AP US Government and Politics.

AP ECONOMICS - MICRO (Grades 11 & 12) Course # 0234 ***AP ECONOMICS - MACRO (Grades 11 & 12) Course # 0235 ***

The purpose of the AP course in Microeconomics is to give students a thorough understanding of those principles of eco-nomics that apply to the functions of individual decision makers, both consumers and producers, within the economic system. It places primary emphasis on the nature and functions of product markets, and includes the study of factor markets and of the role of government in promoting greater efficiency and equity in the economy.

The purpose of the AP course in Macroeconomics is to give students a thorough understanding of the principles of econom-ics that apply to an economic system as a whole. The course will place particular emphasis on the study of national income and price-level determination, and also develop students’ fa-miliarity with economic performance measures, the financial sector, stabilization policies, economic growth, and international economics.These two courses, offered as a full year sequence, are designed to simulate a college level economics course. Coursework and examinations will be developed with the goal of preparing stu-dents for AP exams in Microeconomics and Macroeconomics.

Page 50: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

2015-2016 Course Selection Guide

Page 49

OVERVIEW OF SPECIAL EDUCATION COURSE SELECTION

Penncrest students who are receiving special education ser-vices should select courses like all other students, indicating required courses and electives according to the counselor’s instructions. After a student has completed the course selection process, the courses will be reviewed by the student’s coun-selor and the student’s special education case manager. The case manager may assign a student to an Academic Support class (see page 11). If they feel that the student would benefit from the substitution of a modified special education course, they will make this recommendation to the student’s parents. If the recommendation is approved by the student’s parents, the student will be scheduled for the modified special education course. Each special education course is worth one credit and is regarded as rank level 4. An IEP meeting may also be requested by school staff or the student’s parents to discuss the student’s schedule and/or program.

CONTENT SPECIAL EDUCATION COURSESSpecial education classes are available in language arts and mathematics at each grade level. These courses reflect the content of regular education classes whenever possible, but provide small group and specialized materials and instructional strategies to meet the needs of the students assigned to these classes. Students are scheduled for these classes based on IEP team recommendations.

4 SUCCESS IN READING 1C I & II Course #1113 & 1123This course is designed to provide intensive instruction in decoding and comprehension. Instruction will focus on skills needed for decoding multisyllabic works and incorporating critical thinking skills required to be an efficient reader across the curriculum. Course placement is based upon the recom-mendation of the student’s IEP team.

4 LINGUISTICS A(BCDEF) I & II Course # 1114 & 1124The Linguistics course is for students continuing with intensive literacy instruction in reading. It will address phonemic aware-ness and phonics, word attack and spelling, vocabulary expan-sion, grammar and usage, listening and reading comprehension, and verbal and written communication. Course placement is based upon the recommendation of the student IEP team.

WILSON READINGCourse #1130Based on IEP team recommendations, a special education student may participate in the Wilson Reading Systems elective course. This course uses highly specialized materials and strategies to assist the student in improving his general reading skills. Priority is given to students having difficulty with the reading process.

SPECIAL EDUCATION COURSESAt a Glance

Building Coordinator: Mrs. Lindsay Groy (610-627-6360)

Course Title Indicators: Rank Level AP Course Course Title Placement of Course in a Series (if applicable) Course #Example: 4 Special Reading 1113

EMOTIONAL SUPPORT RESOURCE ROOM Course #1150 Emotional Support Resource Room support is available for Emotional Support special education students instead of a study hall. A special education teacher provides support with organizational skills, study skills, and monitoring of work com-pletion in this setting.

EMOTIONAL SUPPORT ACADEMIC ENRICHMENT I , II, III & IV Course # 1152, 1153, 1154, 1155The Emotional Support Academic Enrichment course is de-signed to assist selected students who have a significant need for daily support in academic areas and/or in organization and study skills. Each class will include both whole-group instruc-tion in certain skill areas; and individualized instruction and/or support in the various academic areas in accordance with each students’ IEP needs and goals. Students will receive a grade based on their class performance on whole-group les-sons, individual work, and classroom participation. The class will meet daily for credit as an unranked course. In order to be eligible, students must be recommended by their special education case manager.

4 OCCUPATIONAL KNOWLEDGE Course #1115Occupational Knowledge is a one-semester or year long elective course, which meets daily for the semester. Students receive help in developing a variety of job-related skills, including exploring the range of occupations available, the process of searching for a job and applying for a job, tips for interviewing for a job, the role of employment agencies in job placement, legal and financial aspects of employment, and polishing work-related personal skills. Priority is given to seniors who do not expect to attend higher education opportunities immediately after graduation.

SCANS Course #1117This program, under the direction of the special education Transition Coordinator, provides special education students with elective credit for successful work experience. Based on IEP team recommen-dations, a student may receive elective credit for finding a job and working on the job. Job performance is reviewed at least once each marking period. The student’s employer must be willing to partic-ipate in this program, by occasionally meeting with the Transition Coordinator, maintaining contact by telephone with the Transition Coordinator, and completing work checklists for the student.

4 CHOICESThis program, under the direction of the special education Transition Coordinator, provides special education students with the oppor-tunity to explore various job areas by rotating through different job placements. Job areas may include travel, real estate, law enforce-ment, government, marketing, health care/personal care, retail/mall management, food service, shipping, and secretarial/management. Students spend approximately 4-5 weeks in several selected areas for 1.5 to 2 hours in the afternoons daily. Placement in this pro-gram is based on IEP team recommendations.

Page 51: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

Penncrest High School

Page 50

TECHNOLOGY & ENGINEERING EDUCATIONAt a Glance

Building Coordinator: Mr. Steve Mescanti (610-627-6227)

Graduation Requirements: Students may use Technology & Applied Engineering Education courses to fulfill graduation requirements for Fine and Practical Arts or Electives.

Course Title Indicators: Rank Level AP Course Course Title Placement of Course in a Series (if applicable) Course #Example: 2 Publications I 1251

2 FOUNDATIONS OF TECHNOLOGY Course #1260This course is designed to serve as the introductory course in the Technology and Engineering program and will be a prerequisite for all other Technology and Engineering classes. Students in this course will study manufacturing, construction, visual communications and energy & power technologies and identify their role in maintaining competitive economic growth. This course will focus on the three dimensions of technological literacy: knowledge, ways of thinking and acting, and capabilities with the goal of students developing the characteristics of a technologically literate citizen. Students will develop an understanding of engineering design, the formal process that transforms ideas into products or systems of the designed world. The course will conclude with the synthesizing of major ideas through an understanding of the core concepts of technology with an emphasis on systems-thinking and related principles.

1 ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN AND RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTIONCourse #12612 ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN AND RESIDENTAL CONSTRUCTIONCourse #1262This course is intended to serve as an introduction to the current practices in residential construction and also as a platform for investigating future trends in the construction field. Students in this course will be introduced to the various materials and techniques used both historically and currently to build structures. Instruction will focus equally on the design and fabrication elements of the industry. Emphasis will be placed on using architectural drawing and estimation software tools to produce the construction documentation that is required in the trade. The incorporation of architectural design, green building technologies and the environmental impacts of home design and construction will be investigated.

1 ENGINEERING DESIGN AND MANUFACTURING 2 ENGINEERING DESIGN AND MANUFACTURING Course #1263 Course #1264This course is open to 10th, 11th, and 12th graders as an exploratory course in engineering and design, as well as man-ufacturing processes and procedures. Students will develop skills in freehand drawing, geometric construction, isometric, multi-view drafting, and dimensioning of drawings. Students will be utilizing a three-dimensional drawing package to produce working drawings and plans. Students designing or reverse engineering of an object or product, to create and modify the product or tool. Students will create plans, schedules, assembly drawing, testing the physical properties and dynamics of the object or part. Students will also go through the designing pro-cess of objects that run on mechanical properties from springs, cams, gears, pneumatics, hydraulics and weights to move an object. Emphasis will be placed on the design and redesign of mechanism or objects.

1 TRANSPORTATION, ROBOTICS AND AVIATION2 TRANSPORTATION, ROBOTICS AND AVIATION Course #1269Course #1270This course undertakes an exploration of the role technology plays in the complex networks of interconnected subsystems that comprise the three core areas of study.Students will examine various transportation system compo-nents and the roles of these components in the overall functional process of the system. An analysis will also take place of the improvements and the impacts of transportation technologies on the environment, society, and culture. Students will design and create a transportation vehicle based upon their experiences, interests and research during the unit.

Grade Level Course Description Rank Level Recommendations

9, 10, 11, 12 Foundations of Technology 2

10, 11, 12

Architectural Design and Residential ConstructionEngineering Design and Manufacturing I or IITransportation, Robotics and AviationVisual Design I or II

1 or 21 or 21 or 21 or 2

11, 12Publications IPublications II

1 or 21

12 Engineering by Design 1

Page 52: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

2015-2016 Course Selection Guide

Page 51

Course Title Indicators: Rank Level AP Course Course Title Placement of Course in a Series (if applicable) Course #Example: 2 Publications II 1251

In the robotics segment, students will work in teams to solve technical problems by designing and constructing tethered robots, autonomous robots, and automated sorting machines using cardboard as the primary building material. Students will use a variety of methods and applications within the design model to produce their robots using recycled materials.Aviation is an exciting, complex combination of various sys-tems, technologies and concepts all designed to challenge the student from an interdisciplinary perspective. Students will explore aerodynamic principles, aircraft systems, flight planning, weather basics and other topics necessary to pilot an airplane. The opportunity to take an introductory flight lesson will be made available to students at the end of the school year.

1 PUBLICATIONS I Course #1250 2 PUBLICATIONS I Course #1251This course is primarily for seniors who wish to be involved in producing the Penncrest yearbook (The Crest). Students should also have an interest in how publications are produced. Topics will include flyers, newsletters, brochures, small newspapers and books. Students will study principles of good design and layout of these publications as well as the appropriate produc-tion operations. Students will work on the design and layout of the yearbook, as well as production of the photography for the book. Students should be highly motivated, possess strong or-ganizational skills and be willing to work as a member of a team to produce The Crest. Students should also have a general understanding of photography. Students who fill editor and other leadership positions will receive Level I credit. The yearbook is created using an online design program which students will be required to learn. Other software applications, including Microsoft Word, Adobe Creative Suite 6 (InDesign, Illustrator and Photoshop), will be used to aid in the creation of the book as well as other items. Students wishing to take Publications must complete an application and have instructor approval. Students should also be aware that this course requires after school and evening time in recording events for publication.

1 PUBLICATIONS II Course #1252This course is for students interested in continuing theirinvolvement in producing the Penncrest yearbook (The Crest).These students will be expected to take leadership roles inproducing The Crest. Students should have a “C” or better inPublications I and have instructor approval. Students shouldalso be aware that this course requires after school and eveningtime in recording events for publication. Students shouldpossess strong organizational skills and be willing to workas members o f a team to p roduce The Cres t .

1 ENGINEERING BY DESIGN Course #1271Engineering by Design™ is bui l t on Standards for Technological Literacy (ITEEA); Principles and Stan-dards for School Mathematics (NCTM); and Proj-ect 2061, Benchmarks for Science Literacy (AAAS). This course is the capstone course for students who have demonstrated an aptitude for and a keen interest in STEM education. Building upon the student’s previous experiences in his/her Technology and Engineering Education courses, EbD provides the students an opportunity to do in-depth ex-ploration and design, create and test devices related to that exploration. Students will arrange a plan of study with the instructor and execute that plan during the span of the course.

1 VISUAL DESIGN I Course #12542 VISUAL DESIGN I Course #1255This is a course offered to 10th, 11th and 12th grade students as an intermediate course in communications. An examination of graphic design, photography, and visual communications methods will be undertaken.A variety of graphic and media processes will be examined. Areas of study will include but not be limited to: desktop pub-lishing, package and graphic design, screen process printing, multi-color and process color printing, digital photography, image conversion and manipulation. Students will complete one service requirement for a community or school group. Students will be expected to produce a variety of items using software and hardware applications. You’ll use industry-related software (Adobe Creative Suite) to gain creative experience in creating designs such as logos, poster, packaging, publications and screen printed designs. This course is recommended for students who are interested in learning more about occupa-tions such as advertising designer, computer artist, freelance artist, graphic designer, or layout artist, etc. The design pro-cess will be used extensively and students will be evaluated upon their ability to apply their knowledge to produce quality products. Students will also produce a cumulative project which will demonstrate competence in all areas of study.

1 VISUAL DESIGN II Course #12732 VISUAL DESIGN II Course #1275This course is offered to students who have achieved a `C’ or better in Visual Design I or have instructor approval. In the Ad-vanced Visual Design course, you’ll build upon your knowledge of design and fine-tune your ability to use typography, layout, and color theory to create eye-catching designs. You’ll use in-dustry-related software (Adobe Creative Suite) to gain creative experience in creating designs such as logos, poster, packag-ing, publications and screen printed designs. This course is recommended for students who are interested in learning more about occupations such as advertising designer, computer artist, freelance artist, graphic designer, or layout artist, etc.. For rank level I credit the student must arrange with the in-structor, during the first two weeks of school to do additional as-signments. Students will do a minimum of two service projects. Students will spend a minimum of one marking period doing in-depth work in an area of study which will be pre-arranged with the instructorStudents will also work with outside clients to produce visual products. These projects will be advanced in both scope and design. Advanced techniques using Adobe Creative Suite will be explored in order to meet the needs of these clients.

Page 53: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

Penncrest High School

Page 52

WORLD LANGUAGES COURSESAt a Glance

Building Coordinator: Mrs. Kimberly Riviere (610-627-6294)Graduation Requirements: All students must successfully complete two years of a World Language.

Course Title Indicators: Rank Level AP Course Course Title Placement of Course in a Series (if applicable) Course #Example: 1 AP French Languages 0608

While the complexity of work increases within each of the sequences of World Language study, the basic course require-ments remain fundamentally the same. These may include: nightly homework, frequent quizzing, verb sheets, a notebook graded quarterly, a major test for each unit and/or grammar concept, and projects. In addition, the student will do oral and written reports commensurate with the course, as well as sup-plementary readings. The quantity and quality of composition work will be based on the student’s progress — from the forma-tion of sentences in the Beginner Levels to the formation of the simple paragraph in Elementary Levels, to the development of compositions in the Intermediate Levels, and to the writing of critiques in the Advanced Levels. Students are advised that, in cases where enrollments are insufficient to warrant the formation of a separate class, two levels of one language may have to be combined into one class.

2 BEGINNER FRENCH Course #0602(formerly 2 French I)

This course is a basic introduction to French, designed for students who are beginning their studies of the language for the first time. Students will develop skills in the four linguistic areas: listening, speaking, reading, and writing and will study formal and informal aspects of Francophone culture. A variety of teaching techniques are incorporated. Student participation and homework are integral components of the program.Recommendation: Students should select 2 Beginner French if they have not studied French before or if they have not passed French at SLMS. The normal sequence of French study is Be-ginner French, Advanced Beginner French, Elementary French.

* Appropriate course selection is based on grade earned in preceding World Language course.** Any student enrolled in this course may elect to earn rank level 1 credit by completing additional course work as determined by the department.

Grades Course Rank Level

9, 10, 11, 12

Beginner FrenchBeginner SpanishBeginner LatinBeginner Chinese

1 or 2

9, 10, 11, 12 Adv Beginner FrenchAdv Beginner Spanish 1 or 2

9, 10, 11, 12

Elementary FrenchElementary SpanishElementary LatinElementary Chinese

1 or 2

10, 11, 12 Intermediate FrenchIntermediate Spanish 1

11, 12

Intermediate LatinIntermediate ChineseAdvanced FrenchAdvanced SpanishAdvanced LatinAdvanced ChineseFrancophone Culture, Conversation, & CuisineMythology of the Classical World

1

12 AP French LanguageAP Spanish Language 1

Page 54: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

2015-2016 Course Selection Guide

Page 53

1 BEGINNER FRENCHCourse #0601(formerly 1 French I)

Any student enrolled in this course will earn rank level 1 credit by completing additional course work as determined by the department. This course is designed for serious students who work well independently and are prepared to be challenged in their course work and evaluations.

2 ADVANCED BEGINNER FRENCHCourse #0603(formerly 2 French 2)

This course is designed to meet the needs of students who have completed the Penncrest 2 Beginner French or the Springton Lake 8th grade entry programs. Expanded vocabulary and structures will be presented to enhance students’ proficiency in all four linguistic skill areas including: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. In addition, students will study the formal and informal aspects of Francophone culture. A variety of teaching techniques are incorporated. Student participation and homework are integral components of the program.

Recommendation: A grade of “D” or better in the Penncrest 2 Beginner French or the Springton Lake 8th grade entry programs or comparable programs; students who earned a grade of “D” in the 8th grade program or a comparable program will be scheduled to this course. Students should earn a grade of “C” or better to continue their studies in the next course (1 Elementary French) of the sequence. Successful completion of this course satisfies the high school graduation requirement for World Languages, although students are encouraged to continue their studies beyond this minimum.

1 ADVANCED BEGINNER FRENCHCourse #0605(formerly French 2)

Any student enrolled in this course will earn rank level 1 credit by completing additional course work as determined by the department. This course is designed for serious students who work well independently and are prepared to be challenged in their course work and evaluations.

Recommendation: Students who wish to enroll in 1 Advanced French should earn a grade of “B” or better in 1 Beginner French or an A or better in 2 Beginner French.

1 ELEMENTARY FRENCH Course #06042 ELEMENTARY FRENCHCourse #0609(formerly 1 French II)

This course is designed to meet the needs of students who successfully completed the middle school French program or Advanced Beginner French. There is continued emphasis on the linguistic and cultural skills of French, advancing students’ proficiency toward the intermediate level. A variety of teaching techniques and assessments are incorporated. Student participation, performance and homework are integral components of the course.

Recommendation: Grade of “C” or better in the middle school program, 2 Advanced Beginner French, or 1 Advanced Beginner French. Successful completion of this course satisfies the high school graduation requirement for World Language, although students are encouraged to continue their studies beyond this minimum.

1 INTERMEDIATE FRENCHCourse #0606(formerly 1 French III)

This course is a review and continuation of Elementary French. Students have the opportunity to strengthen their conversa-tional skills by learning how to communicate in typical daily life situations. Students will broaden their learning of grammatical structures with a special emphasis on verb tenses. Writing skills will be developed through guided compositions. Students in this course will be eligible to participate in the World Language Department-sponsored trip to France.

Recommendation: Students who wish to enroll in Intermediate French should earn a grade of “C” or better in Elementary French; students may not go on with a grade of “D” unless they are granted special permission.

1 ADVANCED FRENCHCourse #0607(formerly 1 French IV)

Students are expected to master grammatical concepts, vocabulary, and idiomatic expressions associated with the text. Oral and writing skills are developed through conversation topics, oral presentations, class discussions, and compositions. An introduction to selected literary movements is given through the reading of excerpts from French classics and short stories. Students in this course will be eligible to participate in the World Languages Department-sponsored trip to France

Recommendation: Students who wish to enroll in Advanced French should earn a grade of “C” or better in Intermediate French; students may not go on with a grade of “D” unless they are granted special permission.

AP FRENCH LANGUAGECourse #0608This course is conducted in the form of a seminar. Students will continue their study of advanced grammar concepts, de-velop their vocabulary, and increase their repertoire of idiom-atic expressions, in both oral and written activities. Students will be expected to participate in class discussions, practical conversation situations, lesson presentations, and a variety of written exercises. In addition, students will become familiar with contemporary French culture through viewing and discussion of videos that reflect current trends. The course prepares students to take the Advanced Placement exam in French Language. Recommendation: Students who wish to enroll in AP French should earn a grade of “C” or better in Advanced French.Students in this course are expected to take the AP exam. Stu-dents who elect not to take the AP exam must take the course final at the end of the year.

Course Title Indicators: Rank Level AP Course Course Title Placement of Course in a Series (if applicable) Course #Example: 1 AP French Languages 0608

Page 55: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

Penncrest High School

Page 54

1 FRANCOPHONE CULTURE, CONVERSATION, AND CUISINE Course #06402 FRANCOPHONE CULTURE, CONVERSATION, AND CUISINE Course #0641This semester elective will examine the Francophone world through its music, cuisine, sports, traditions and current events. Students will study Francophone areas such as regions of France, Quebec and Francophone Africa. This project-based course will be taught primarily in French. In addition to refined communication skills, the course also aims to increase students’ global awareness by consistently providing opportunities to compare and contrast cultural tra-ditions in areas of the Francophone world with traditions in America. This class may be taken for rank level 1 or 2 credit.Recommendations: Students who wish to enroll in this course should earn a C or higher in Advanced Beginner French

2 BEGINNER LATIN Course #0617(formerly 2 Latin I)

Although the primary objective of Beginner Latin is to be able to read and understand Latin as a classical language, the secondary objectives include the following: to increase word power and English vocabulary skills through study of Latin root words, to grasp a comprehensive knowledge of the English language based on Latin grammar, to illustrate the influences of the Roman world upon our own culture, and to lend a firm foundation to the study of other romance languages which are derived from Latin, i.e. French, Spanish, Italian. The reading lessons, taken from classical literature, provide a good cultural basis for beginning students. These selections include mythology, historical, and legendary accounts of the founding of Rome, the wanderings of Ulysses, and stories from Vergil’s Aeneid. By the end of Beginner Latin, students are able to translate adapted Latin prose.

1 BEGINNER LATIN Course #0616(formerly 1 Latin I)

Any student enrolled in Beginner Latin may elect to earn rank level I credit by completing additional course work as determined by the department. This course is designed for serious students who work well independently and are prepared to be challenged in their course work and evaluations.

1 ELEMENTARY LATINCourse #06182 ELEMENTARY LATINCourse #0619(formerly 1 Latin II)

A comprehensive and intensive review of Beginner Latin is provided through various Latin reading selections, which describe Roman life during the reign of Augustus. The learning of new vocabulary, idiomatic expressions, and the more refined points of grammar follow, along with a concentration on English vocabulary derived from Latin.

In the second semester, students will be able to study and analyze the cultural aspects of Roman history and private life through the translation of original and adapted works from Catullus, Livy, Pliny, Ovid, and other writers.

Recommendation: Students who wish to enroll in Latin II should earn a grade of “D” or better in Beginner Latin.

1 INTERMEDIATE LATINCourse #0620(formerly 1 Latin III)

The Intermediate Latin student, through independent work and research, will study, translate, and analyze the literature of Roman authors from the Ciceronian era through the Golden and Silver ages to post-classical authors such as Augustine and Jerome, and even the authors of Renaissance Latin. Through such an extensive survey of Latin literature, the student will also study the historical and cultural aspects that were evident during Rome’s greatness and decline.

Recommendation: Students who wish to enroll in Intermediate Latin should earn a grade of “C” or better in Elementary Latin.

1 ADVANCED LATIN Course #0621(formerly 1 Latin IV)

The Advanced Latin student, through independent work and research, will study, translate, and analyze the literature of Roman authors from the Ciceronian era through the Golden and Silver ages to post-classical authors such as Augustine and Jerome, and even the authors of Renaissance Latin. Through such an extensive survey of Latin literature, the student will also study the historical and cultural aspects that were evident during Rome’s greatness and decline.

Recommendation: Students who wish to enroll in Advanced Latin should earn a grade of “C” or better in Intermediate Latin.

1 MYTHOLOGY OF THE CLASSICAL WORLDCourse #06602 MYTHOLOGY OF THE CLASSICAL WORLDCourse #0661

Mythology will examine the Classical mythology of Greece and Rome. We examine the role of myths in societies and how myth reveals the human condition. We read stories of creation and the pantheon, lesser deities, and the interaction with men. We also explore the great myths of the literature surroundings the house of Thebes, the fall of Troy, the establishment of Rome, and the wanderings of Odysseus. Special attention is given to the enduring legacy of these myths in art and literature throughout the ages up to modern times and current media. This class may be taken for level 1 or level 2 credit.

Course Title Indicators: Rank Level AP Course Course Title Placement of Course in a Series (if applicable) Course #Example: 1 AP French Languages 0608

Page 56: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

2015-2016 Course Selection Guide

Page 55

2 BEGINNER SPANISH Course #0623(formerly Spanish I)

This course is a basic introduction to Spanish. Vocabulary and structure are presented by means of questions and answers of a conversational nature, reading selections on everyday occurrences of Spanish life, and written exercises for grammar practice. The development of the skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing in Spanish is the goal of the course, as well as an appreciation of the similarities and differences between Spanish and American life.

Recommendation: Students should select 2 Beginner Spanish if they have not studied Spanish before or if they have not passed Spanish at SLMS. The normal sequence of Spanish study is Beginner Spanish, Advanced Beginner Spanish, and Elementary Spanish.

1 BEGINNER SPANISH Course #0622(formerly Spanish I)

Any student enrolled in this course may elect to earn rank level 1 credit by completing additional course work as determined by the department. This course is designed for serious students who work well independently and are prepared to be challenged in their course work and evaluations.

2 ADVANCED BEGINNER SPANISH Course #0624(formerly Spanish 2)

This course is designed to meet the needs of students who have completed the Penncrest 2 Beginner Spanish or Springton Lake 8th grade entry programs. Expanded vocabulary and structures will be presented to enhance students’ proficiency in all four linguistic skill areas including: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. In addition, students will study the formal and informal aspects of Hispanic culture. A variety of teaching techniques are incorporated. Student participation and homework are integral components of the program.

Recommendation: A grade of “D” or better in the Penncrest 2 Beginner Spanish or the Springton Lake 8th grade entry pro-grams or comparable programs; students who earned a grade of “D” in the 8th grade program or comparable program will be scheduled to this course. Students should earn a grade of “C” or better to continue their studies in the next course (1 Elementary Spanish) in the sequence. Successful completion of this course satisfies the high school graduation requirement for World Language, although students are encouraged to continue their studies beyond this minimum.

1 ADVANCED BEGINNER SPANISH Course #0626(formerly Spanish 2) Any student enrolled in this course will earn rank level 1 credit by completing additional course work as determined by the department. This course is designed for serious students who work well independently and are prepared to be challenged in their course work and evaluations.Recommendation: Students who wish to enroll in 1 Advanced Spanish should earn a grade of “B” or better in 1 Beginner Spanish or an A or better in 2 Beginner Spanish. Course Title Indicators: Rank Level AP Course Course Title Placement of Course in a Series (if applicable) Course #

1 ELEMENTARY SPANISH Course #06252 ELEMENTARY SPANISHCourse #0655(formerly 1 Spanish II)

This course is designed to meet the needs of students who successfully completed the middle school Spanish program or Advanced Beginner Spanish. There is continued emphasis on the linguistic and cultural skills of Spanish, advancing the students’ proficiency toward the intermediate level. A variety of teaching techniques and assessments are incorporated. Student participation, performance, and homework are integral components of the course.

Recommendation: Grade of “C” or better in the middle school program or Advanced Beginner Spanish. A grade of “C” or better is required for matriculation in Intermediate Spanish. Successful completion of this course satisfies the high school graduation requirement for World Language, although students are encouraged to continue their studies beyond this minimum.

1 INTERMEDIATE SPANISH Course #0627(formerly 1 Spanish III)

A review and continuation of Elementary Spanish, this course provides students with the opportunity to strengthen their conversational skills by learning how to communicate in typical daily-life situations. In the course of these and other activities, the student will acquire a broader vocabulary and improve his/her command of grammatical structures.

Recommendation: Students who wish to enroll in Intermediate Spanish should earn a grade of “C” or better in Elementary Spanish; students may not go on with a grade of “D” unless they are granted special permission.

1 ADVANCED SPANISH Course #0628(formerly 1 Spanish IV)

This course is a continuation of Intermediate Spanish, emphasizing proficiency in speaking and writing at a more advanced level, while continuing skill development in listening and reading. It includes the study of syntax, vocabulary, idioms, style, grammatical structures, and culture. Grammar and themed vocabulary and cultural topics will enable the student to prepare and present reports, conversations, and projects of greater length and more advanced quality than in the previous course. Students of this course will be eligible to participate in World Language Department exchange programs.

Recommendation: Students who wish to enroll in Advanced Spanish should earn a grade of “C” or better in Intermediate Spanish; students may not go on with a grade of “D” unless they are granted special permission.

Page 57: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

Penncrest High School

Page 56

AP SPANISH LANGUAGECourse #0629

This course is designed to develop more advanced skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Students will develop more advanced vocabulary and grammar as they study current topics such as global challenges, science and technology, contemporary life, public and private identities, family and communities and aesthetics and beauty. Students will also explore and examine important regional characteristics and challenges of Spain. Attention then shifts to other Spanish speaking countries whose culture and literature will be explored. All parts of the AP exam will be practiced during the year to prepare those students who take the exam. In addition, each student is required to participate in an oral “exit interview” to determine his or her level of proficiency based in the ACTFL guidelines.

Recommendation: Grade of “C” or better in Advanced Spanish.

Students in this course are expected to take the AP exam. Students who elect not to take the AP exam must take the course final at the end of the year.

2 BEGINNER CHINESE (Mandarin)Course #0631(formerly Chinese I)

This course is a basic introduction to Mandarin, designed for students who are beginning their studies of the language for the first time. Students will develop skills in the four linguistic areas: listening, speaking, reading, and writing and will learn about formal and informal aspects of Chinese culture. A variety of teaching techniques are incorporated. Student participation and homework are integral components of the program.

Recommendation: Students should select Beginner Chinese if they have no or very little previous experience with the Chinese language. Students in this course will be eligible to participate in the bi-annual Chinese Culture and Language immerson trip to China.

1 BEGINNER CHINESE (Mandarin)Course #0630(formerly Chinese I)

Any student enrolled in this course will earn rank level 1 credit by completing additional course work as determined by the department. This course is designed for committed language students who work well independently and are prepared to be challenged in their coursework. Students in this course will be eligible to participate in the bi-annual chinese Culture and Language immersion trip to China.

1 ELEMENTARY CHINESE (Mandarin)Course #06322 ELEMENTARY CHINESE (Mandarin)Coure #0637(formerly 1 Chinese II)

This course will begin with a comprehensive and intensive review of Beginner Chinese. In the second year of Mandarin, students will continue to develop their skills in the four linguistic areas: listening, speaking, reading, and writing as well as continuing their study of Chinese culture. Students in this course will be eligible to participate in the bi-annual Chinese Culture and Language immersion trip to China.

Recommendation: Students who wish to enroll in Elementary Chinese should earn a grade of “D” or better in Beginner Chinese.

1 INTERMEDIATE CHINESE (Mandarin)Course #0633(formerly 1 Chinese III)

A review and continuation of Elementary Chinese, students will refine their skills in the four linguistic areas: listening, speaking, reading, and writing as well as continuing their study of Chinese culture. Students in this course will be elilgible to participate in the bi-annual Chinese Culture and Lauguage immersion trip to China.Recommendation: Students who wish to enroll in Inter-mediate Chinese should earn a grade of “C” or better in Elementary Chinese.

1 ADVANCED CHINESE (Mandarin) Course # 0634(formerly Chinese IV)

This course will continue the rigorous nature of the program and bring students to an even more competitive position in pursing scholarships in China, taking the SAT II Chinese, and gaining acceptance to top ranked universities. This course is a continuation of Intermediate Mandarin Chinese, emphasizing proficiency in speaking and writing at a more advanced level, while continuing skill development in listening and reading of Chinese culture. Students are expected to exhibit their comprehension levels in utilizing sentence patterns, vocabulary, and idiomatic expressions associated with the text in all four linguistic areas: Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing. Oral and writing skills are developed through conversation topics, oral presentations, class discussions, and compositions. Students in this course will be eligible to take the college level HSK, the International Chinese Proficiency test for Chinese as a Second Language Learners, and to pursue a full scholarship to study a semester or a year at univ

Recommendation: Students who wish to enroll in Advanced Mandarin Chinese should earn a grade of “C” or better in Intermediate Mandarin Chinese; students may not go on with a grade of “D” unless they are granted special permission.

Page 58: Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide · Penncrest High School Course Selection Guide 134 Barren Road ... Guidelines for Course Selection ... Such courses do not figure in

Rose Tree Media School District308 N. Olive StreetMedia, PA 19063

610-627-6000

Mr. James M. Wigo, Sr.Superintendent of Schools

Dr. Steven TaylorAssistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction

Board of School Directors

John Hanna III - President

William O’Donnell - Vice President

Tracy Barusevicius

Nancy Fronduti

Nancy Mackrides

Susan Nolen

Harry Postles

Elizabeth Schneider

William Tyson

Mr. James M. Wigo, Sr. - Superintendent of Schools