Half-Year Elective Courses
Art I & II – College Preparatory II (Grades 11 & 12)
This course introduces various concepts, art techniques and mediums available in two-dimensional and three dimensional art. Areas of crafts, printmaking, sculpting, painting and drawing are covered along with a focus and appreciation of art from multicultures. Exposures to art ideas and an opportunity for students to express and creatively expand their art talents through the environment, imagination, and skills is fostered.
Introduction to Media Production I & II – College Preparatory II (Grades 11 & 12)
In this course, students study different aspects of media production including television and radio. The emphasis is on television where students learn basic shooting, interviewing and editing techniques. The course is designed to enhance student writing through script development and public speaking through live broadcast presentations. One after-school videotaping project per marking period is required.
Health Related Fitness – College Preparatory II (Grades 11 & 12)
The comprehensive goals and objectives of the health related fitness class is on equitable participation in individual and group activities that will enhance the student’s fitness levels, skill ability and knowledge. Students will identify life management skills that contribute to achieving personal wellness goals by participating in activities that will decrease sedentary lifestyle, promote physical fitness, and relieve mental and emotional tension. The curriculum is in alignment with the Massachusetts Comprehensive Health Frameworks and emphasizes participation in interactive group activities which develop the student’s interpersonal relationships skills in order to help foster a safe and positive school climate.
Microsoft Office – An Introduction to Integrated Computer Applications I – College Preparatory II (Grades 11 & 12)
The focus of this course is on learning Microsoft Office 2007. This integrated application software includes Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint. Students will be introduced to essential office skills, including starting Microsoft Office, using the mouse and keyboard, screen elements and an overview of the applications and Operating system. With Word, they will create letters, memos, web pages, newsletters, and more. Excel is used to organize and calculate data, track financial data, and create charts and graphs. Using Access, they will learn to store, retrieve, and report on information. Students will also create dynamic on-screen presentations with PowerPoint, the presentation graphics tool.
Music Appreciation, Performing Arts I & II – College Preparatory II (Grades 11 & 12)
The combination of music and the performing arts presents a program that enhances a student’s appreciation of these areas through the practical study of acting, movement and theatre production, along with special emphasis on guitar and piano music. Students will study theory as well as participate in classroom productions that call upon skills learned in all of the areas. Productions include monologue, a short play and a musical talent show.
Small Business Management I – College Preparatory II (Grades 11 & 12)
Through a hands-on approach, students will develop the critical thinking skills needed to own or manage a small business. This includes a knowledge of licensing requirements and business law, advantages and disadvantages of the legal forms of business ownership: sole proprietorship, partnership or corporation, and how to form a legal business entity. Students will also prepare a financial proposal for a business they want to start. Also, students will learn to use business math as a tool to solve pricing, tax, and break even problems. From there, students will learn basic accounting, principles of marketing, and how to prepare business letters and press releases. Finally, students will explore the theories of management and organizational structures necessary for motivating employees, hiring and fi ring, and resolving conflict. An emphasis is placed on the individual student’s own unique business and the issues involved with the business.
Full-Year Elective Courses
Accounting I – College Preparatory I (Grade 12)
Basic concepts covered include double-entry bookkeeping and creation of basic fi nancial reports such as the balance sheet, and income statements. Emphasis on cash receipts, accounts receivable, and accounts payable. Assignments will include the use of the general journal, general ledger and worksheets. There is no prerequisite for this course.
Journalism – College Preparatory I (Grade 12)
Journalism focuses on developing writing, editing and interviewing skills. Students write news stories, features, reviews and sports columns. Some students also complete photography, illustrations, cartoons and layout designs. The goal of the course is to publish the school newspaper every six weeks. Students also submit articles to area newspapers for publication.
Pre-Engineering – College Preparatory I (Grade 12)
This course is designed to introduce students to the fi eld of Engineering. Students will gain an appreciation for why a solid foundation in the math and sciences is not only necessary, but required for success as an engineer. Through basic engineering projects, students will learn to brainstorm ideas, develop skills in blueprint reading and sketching, and will learn how to use drawing instruments, and 3D CAD software.
Psychology – College Preparatory I (Grade 12)
This course explores the basic principles of psychology and covers such topics as psychological development, theories of personality, the principles of learning, coping with frustration and the causes and treatment of personality disorders.
