Electives Catalog for Incoming Freshmen
- Entrepreneurship, Design and Innovation
- Health and Physical Education
- Music & Performing Arts
- Science & Math
- Social Studies
- World Languages
Entrepreneurship, Design and Innovation
ART STUDIO 1 (Grades 9-12)
(EDI6000)
This course is a foundation and an exploratory course for students considering careers in the fine arts, architecture, interior design, graphic design, digital arts, ceramics, photography, animation and other fields related to art. The course focuses on developing observational drawing skills, the elements and principles of design, aesthetic awareness, and creative problem solving. This will be done while acquiring technical skills in drawing, painting, and graphic design and sculpture. Research and reflective analysis of their own work and works created by historically significant artists will enhance students’ awareness of their relationship to the history of art. Completion of this course is required by the end of sophomore year for students who plan to enroll in the Art Major program.
APPLIED CERAMICS TECHNOLOGY 1 (Grades 9-12)
(EDI6010)
This course focuses not only on the processes for hand building and wheel-thrown ceramic as students will learn and understand how clay translates into form and how the various states of clay affect the hand building process by creating multiple pieces that center around clay states and innovation. Students will learn and understand how to throw on the wheel and alter the vessel to create a unique form. Students will also learn the chemical components of glazes as well as various glazing techniques by glazing finished pieces to suit their own personal aesthetic. Students will research historical and modern ceramic artists and apply their skills to create unique works of art influenced by their research.
FINE METALS 1 (Grades 9-12)
(EDI6011)
This introductory level course will have students working with nonferrous metals using basic hand tools and three dimensional design concepts. Students will be introduced to the elements of principles of art and design and gain an understanding of how to translate a two-dimensional design to a three-dimensional product using Adobe Illustrator. Techniques covered will include, designing, sawing, filing, piercing, hammering, riveting and finishing. Students will conceptualize and then create jewelry and small metal sculptural pieces while being exposed to and exploring metalwork throughout history. Emphasis will be placed on critical thinking, creativity, collaboration and innovation.
PHOTOGRAPHY 1 (Grades 9-12)
(EDI6005)
In Photography 1 students will learn how to take fine art photographs; they will enhance digital photographs using Photoshop CS6. Students will learn how to use the modes and settings on their cameras and smart phones. They will learn about the importance of composition, and the difference between a fine art photograph and a snap shot. The history of photography, famous photographers will be used as inspiration for projects and students will learn how to critique photographs. In addition to photography projects, students will print and mat color photographs, make collages and do a research project for a final exam project.
MASS MEDIA PRODUCTION 1 (Grades 9-12)
(EDI6806)
Students in this course will focus on film making, journalism, public speaking, television news production and sports casting and on-camera media performance to create broadcast quality content that will populate the Colonial School District’s cable access channel CITV and the district’s website. The class will introduce students to the world of communicating to a mass audience through the medium of the television, video and film by developing attitudes and opinions by researching the use of these mediums to see their effectiveness and efficiency in communicating to a mass audience along with ties to social media. Additionally, this course permits students a close investigation of the technical elements of film, video and television production including but not limited to video basics, non-fiction storytelling, fiction, viral videos, writing for film and television, camera operation (in the studio, on location and in the athletic arena), public speaking, on camera performance, journalism, film editing and editing for television news. Students will also be introduced to the world of Television Sports production and (per interest) are required to perform a certain amount of hours as camera operator for live television sports production.
INTRODUCTION TO BUSINESS (Grades 9-12)
(EDI6216)
This is the introductory business course for students and the prerequisite for Accounting 1, Marketing, Legal Systems and Sports Management designed for students potentially interested in a business career pathway. Students will gain an understanding of the main concepts behind accounting, business law, finance, management, marketing, entrepreneurship and technology used in the business setting. Students will also be introduced to the many business-related clubs that are offered at the high school (DECA, FBLA, Mock Trial, etc.). Upon completion of the course (Grade of “C” or better), students will be able to select a specific business pathway.
COMPUTER SCIENCE 1: WEB DESIGN AND ANIMATION (Grades 9-12)
DUAL ENROLLMENT (CIS 114)
(EDI6400)
This project-based introductory level course teaches students the fundamentals of computer science and programming while allowing them to use their creativity to design and develop web sites and 2D animation. The course is aimed at students with little or no programming experience who wish to develop their creative expression skills in conjunction with professional-level software development techniques. Students will learn the basics of HTML, CSS, JavaScript and image editing through the development of well designed, highly functional web sites and creative and fun images and animations. *Dual Enrollment: Students who choose to pursue this option will earn three college credits from MCCC.
HONORS COMPUTER SCIENCE 2: WEB APPS AND GAMES (Grades 9-12)
DUAL ENROLLMENT (CIS 140)
(EDI6401)
This second level honors course is designed to build on the HTML, CSS, JavaScript and general programming knowledge gained in CS1. Students in this course will learn how to develop dynamic web applications and web based games. In addition, students will learn about server side scripting languages and basic data storage. Finally, students will learn how to prepare their games and apps to be delivered in both a browser based and stand-alone environment on a variety of platforms and devices. Prerequisite: Completion of Computer Science 1 with a minimum grade of “B” or recommendation of Computer Science Teacher. *Dual Enrollment: Students who choose to pursue this option will earn 3 college credits from MCCC.
GAME DESIGN & DEVELOPMENT (Grades 9-12)
(EDI6405)
Gaming is known for video games, but it doesn’t just mean video games. Gamers also play board games, card games, simulations and participate in interactive stories. This course is two parts: the first breaks down the process of creating physical games. The second part introduces students to making mobile and computer games. Students will end the course by making playable board and mobile games. This is an introductory level course and the pre-requisite for GameMaker Programming.
GAMEMAKER PROGRAMMING (Grades 9-12)
(EDI6406)
This course has students focusing on concepts taught in a college‐level “Programming 101” course, but all of the projects are games! Students will receive an introduction to basic programming by building two dimensional (2D) games. GameMaker is a 2d game engine based on a scripting language that builds techniques that can be transferred to any other programming language such as Python, Java and C++. Students will finish complete stand‐alone executable games that can be played with friends and added to your digital portfolio. Prerequisite: Successful completion of Game Design & Development.
ROBOTICS 1: DESIGN, BUILD AND PROGRAM (Grades 9-12)
(EDI6608)
Robotics Design, Build and Program is an introductory hands on course where students gain real world experiences in the exciting field of robotics. Utilizing VEX robots, students will work individually and collaboratively to complete robotic challenges provided by the instructor. A variety of skills and techniques will be introduced and exercised in order to design, build and program autonomous and remote controlled robots to complete various tasks.
HONORS ENGINEERING 1: INTRODUCTION (Grades 9-12)
(EDI6612)
Engineering is the creative application of mathematical and scientific principles to design or develop structures, machines, or manufacturing processes. This course will introduce students to the engineering profession. Students will learn to think like engineers as they take on various challenges through project based learning. Possible projects include balsa bridge or tower design, mousetrap powered vehicles, and model rocketry. Throughout each project, students will be introduced to engineering and experimental design principles while developing project management, technical writing/drawing and problem solving skills. Math Prerequisite: Honors Integrated Math 2 Concurrently or Completed
ARCHITECTURAL DRAWING AND DESIGN 1 (Grades 9-12)
(EDI6600)
This course is designed to explore the world of architectural drawing and design. Through manual drawing techniques and computer-aided drafting software (CAD), the student will develop an understanding of the various processes employed to create and to communicate with geometry. Students will work through a series of design problems, while developing working drawings for residential construction. The language CAD stations using the lasts 2D and 3-D software packages. The entire course is built around the importance of communicating between the design phase and the production and/or the construction phase.
PRODUCT DESIGN 1 (Grades 9-12)
(EDI6606)
Product Design combines the fields of art, business, and engineering to design the products that people use every day. This course will provide an overview of the design and problem solving process through fun and innovative hands-on activities. Students will gain experiences using all types of technology throughout the semester including the use of our state-of-the-art prototyping facility. Student should get excited by the opportunities to create models on computers and then make them a reality through use of 3D printers, laser cutter and CNC rapid prototyping machinery. Traditional production tools are also available to create and fabricate solutions to all types of design problems. If you enjoy working with your hands and want to bring your imagination to life, this is the class for you.
COMPUTER AIDED DRAWING AND DESIGN (CADD) 1 (Grades 9-12)
(EDI6601)
This course is designed to explore the world of drafting and design. Through manual drawing techniques and computer aided drafting software (cad) the student will learn different ways to create and communicate with geometry. The students will be using the latest in 2D and 3D solid modeling CADD software to complete a series of design problems. The design problems will cover geometric construction, orthographic projection, pictorial drawings, and 3 Dimensional solid modeling. The entire course is built around the importance of communicating precise, accurate messages between the design and production phase of industry. If you are interested in the areas of Engineering, Architecture, and or Construction this course is a great place to start.
Health and Physical Education
HEALTH & FITNESS 1: HEALTH/FITNESS/SWIMMING (Grades 9 or 10)
(HPE7004, HPE7005, HPE7006)
This fitness based course is required by all students to be taken either in 9th or 10th grade. The students will alternate classes between health, fitness, and swimming. This course provides students with classroom instruction dealing with a variety of current health related issues. Topics will include physical fitness, body systems, wellness, drugs/alcohol and tobacco, and variety of fitness activities, including muscular strength and endurance training, circuit training, and cardiovascular endurance training. The swimming section of the course is based upon skill level and geared toward aquatic safety, stroke development, and/or refinement. Please refer to the chart below to help aide in deciding which course is most appropriate for course selection. The health component for all three swimming levels is the same.
-
LEVEL 1 (BEG SWIM)
- Limited/no prior swimming experience
- Prefers a floatation device to swim in shallow end or deep end
- Focused primarily on stroke development and survival swimming
-
LEVEL 2 (INT SWIM)
- Can swim freestyle and backstroke comfortably in both shallow and deep ends
- Focused primarily on stroke technique and refinement
- Students will gain additional survival swimming skills
-
LEVEL 3 (ADV SWIM)
- Potential high school swim team member
- Advanced in swimming freestyle, backstroke, elementary backstroke, sidestroke, and breaststroke
- Focused primarily on fitness based aquatic skills
- Students will gain the skills to prepare them for the lifeguarding course.
BODY WORKS 1 (Grades 9-12)
(HPE7003)
This elective course is designed primarily for female students who want to enhance their strength, flexibility, endurance and overall fitness levels. The course will emphasize the five fitness components (flexibility, cardio-respiratory endurance, muscular strength, muscular endurance, and body composition). Activities may include, but are not limited to: yoga, pilates, core strengthening, circuit training, spinning, aerobics, cardio-kickboxing, muscle toning, and total body conditioning. Students will assess their current fitness level, identify areas for improvement and set goals for achievement. Assessment will be based on daily participation.
LIFEGUARDING (Grades 9-12)
(HPE7008)
This elective course is a prerequisite for any student wishing to select the W.E.T. program as a junior or senior. This course offers students the opportunity to earn American Red Cross certification in First Aid, Professional Rescuer CPR/AED, and Lifeguarding. The course will provide the student with the knowledge of instructional techniques for teaching aquatic lessons. The course will cover aquatic fitness, personal fitness, water sports, water games, and activities outside of the pool. Each student is provided a textbook, a one-way CPR mask, and their certification cards (upon completion of the course). The total cost of the class is $70. Prerequisites: Health & Fitness 1. Students must be at 15 years old.
Music & Performing Arts
CHORUS, HONORS CHORUS (1 credit – Full year course)
(Grades 9/10 RED days & Grades 11/12 BLUE days)
(MUS8011, MUS8012)
Chorus provides students with the opportunity to improve basic musicianship skills and to perform chorus literature of different time periods and styles. Students improve their music reading skills and vocal techniques by exploring solo/duet literature during sectional lessons. Sectional lessons are provided on a rotating schedule during the school day. Evening performances are required.
Honors Chorus accelerates the musical performance skills of gifted and talented students. The honors sections will exist within the performance ensembles and will receive weighted credit towards graduation. The student must meet at least three of the following criteria (see instructor for more detailed list): practice at least five days per week for 45 minutes per day; perform appropriate solo repertoire; participate in music festivals such as Districts; take weekly private lessons; participate in an extracurricular or community music organization. Prerequisite: Audition with at least two members of the PW music faculty, recommendation of a music instructor and participation in Mixed Chorus.
CONCERT BAND, H CONCERT BAND (1 credit – Full year course)
(Grades 9/10 RED days & Grades 11/12 BLUE days)
(MUS8005, MUS8006)
Concert Band provides students with the opportunity to improve basic musicianship skills and to perform concert band literature of different time periods and styles on standard concert band instruments. Folk, classical, pop, march and contemporary music is prepared for the winter, and spring concerts. Evening performances are required. Sectional lessons are provided on a rotating schedule during the day.
Honors Concert Band accelerates the musical performance skills of gifted and talented students. The honors sections will exist within the performance ensembles and will receive weighted credit toward graduation. The student must meet a least three of the following criteria (see instructor for more detailed list): practice at least five days per week for 45 minutes per day; perform appropriate solo repertoire; participate in music festivals such as Montco or Districts; take weekly private lessons; participate in an extracurricular or community music organization. Prerequisite: Audition with at least two members of the PW music faculty, recommendation of a music instructor and participation in Concert Band.
ORCHESTRA, H ORCHESTRA (1 credit – Full year course)
(Grades 9/10 RED days & Grades 11/12 BLUE days)
(MUS8017, MUS8018)
Orchestra provides students with the opportunity to improve basic musicianship skills and to perform orchestra literature of different time periods and styles on standard orchestra instruments. Folk, classical, pop, march and contemporary music is prepared for the winter and spring concerts. Evening performances are required. Sectional lessons are provided on a rotating schedule during the day.
Honors Orchestra accelerates the musical performance skills of gifted and talented students. The honors sections will exist within the performance ensembles and will receive weighted credit towards graduation. Some after school practice is required. The student must meet at least three of the following criteria (see instructor for more detailed list): Practice at least five days per week for 45 minutes per day; perform appropriate solo repertoire; participate in music festivals such as Districts; weekly private lessons; participate in an extracurricular or community music organization. Prerequisite: Audition with at least two members of the PW music faculty, recommendation of a music instructor and participation in Orchestra.
MUSIC HISTORY (Grades 9-12)
(MUS8021)
This course is a survey of music history that begins with those works that convey the artistic trends, innovations, and compositional techniques representative of their time. The historical context, composer, musical significance, and compositional design of key works by Bach, Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven, Brahms, and more, will be studied and brought to life by audio or video recordings as well as live performances. The program will stress techniques of listening and evaluation will be emphasized.
BLUES AND JAZZ PLAYING (Grades 9-12)
(MUS8022)
This course teaches students the basic skills necessary to improvise in the jazz and blues styles. Students must already know how to read music and play the 12 major scales on an instrument. Vocalists must have basic piano proficiency. Students should demonstrate creativity and have a willingness to perform individually. Students will be exposed to Smart Music software and critically listen to music. This course will teach students to read lead sheets and improvise over the chord changes. Prerequisite: Recommendation of a music instructor or successful participation in Concert Band, Orchestra and/or Music Theory 1.
BROADWAY AND MORE (Grades 9-12)
(MUS8023)
This course provides an overview of the history and development of American Musical Theater. Students will study the elements of theater as they have developed over time. Students will examine and explore the roots of American musical theater, beginning with early American theater, and how it has evolved into present day. Other topics to be discussed will include performance venues, the technical aspects of the theater, song and dance, musicals made into movies, and the skills needed to be an actor
THE HISTORY OF ROCK AND ROLL (Grades 9-12)
(MUS8024)
This course provides an overview of the history and development of rock and roll music. Students discuss and learn the elements of music that contribute to the rock style as well as the important historical and political events that influenced artists and their music. The course begins with the emergence of rock and roll and chronologically addresses rock music through the present. Styles of rock music include Fifties, Sixties, British Invasion, Folk, Soul, Motown, San Francisco, Art, Jazz, Seventies, Eighties and current trends.
HOW TO READ MUSIC (Grades 9-12)
(MUS8026)
Many students develop a love of music from playing in a band, teaching themselves piano or playing Guitar Hero, but they cannot read music. This course teaches students to read music. It will focus on rhythm reading and pitch reading in treble and bass clefs. Students will be exposed to specific music software. This course also prepares students for Music Theory 1.
MUSIC THEORY 1 (Grades 9-12)
(MUS8025)
This course provides a study of rhythmic and melodic dictation, ear training, sight-singing, key signatures, scales, triads and chords. Students will be exposed to specific music software. This course is designed for students with a background in music.
SONGWRITING (Grades 9-12)
(MUS8027)
This course teaches the basics of rhythm, pitch, melody, form and harmony in methods that are friendly to students with no previous music composition or music reading experience. Those concepts are then applied to songwriting in groups and solo songwriting using apps and notation software. The devices of sound, figurative language and interpreting lyrics are reviewed in order to prepare students to write lyrics.
INTRODUCTION TO THEATER (Grades 9-12)
(ENG1027)
Theater I is an introductory course open to students in grades 9-12 designed to familiarize students with an array of theater-related experiences and to increase their appreciation, critical perception, and understanding of the skills required to mount a theatrical production. Students will begin the course with a study of the craft of improvisation, acting technique, monologue analysis. Students will examine the role and function of theater, musical theater, and performance art in our society. The course will also explore technical theater craft such as lighting, set, and costume design as well as stage management. Students will be required to perform in front of peers, to contribute time to a school production outside of class time, to attend productions outside of the school day, and to participate in a final project wherein they will perform and/or contribute to a performance piece.
Science & Math
ASTRONOMY 1 (Grades 9-12)
(SCI3023)
This course introduces the science of modern astronomy with a concentration on the solar system and its energy sources. Emphasis is placed on the history and physics of astronomy and an introduction to the solar system, including the planets, comets, and stars. This course focuses on engaging philosophic group discussions on topics such as “where does one fit in the universe” and “life on other planets”. No prerequisites exist for this elective class.
ELECTRONICS (Grades 9-12)
(SCI3024)
Science and technology fields often require individuals to have a working understanding of electrical components and their function. Students who are curious about how electrical circuits may be used to accomplish simple and even complex tasks will be introduced to the principles of analog and digital electronics beginning at the most basic level. As the course progresses, more and more sophisticated circuits will be introduced as new concepts are mastered. Ultimately, the student will combine several of the circuit elements presented to construct and test a culminating project. Prerequisites: Completion of biology or currently enrolled in Biology or Applied Biology.
PROBLEM SOLVING STRATEGIES (Grades 9-12)
(MAT2035)
Finding the solution to a problem is only one part of the challenge. In this course, students learn that there are many valid ways to solve a problem, not just one best way. This course will foster the students' understanding that mathematics is a blend of identifying, solving and generalizing mathematical processes. Through collaboration and presentations, students recognize the value of multiple viewpoints. Strategies include drawing diagrams, making systematic lists, eliminating possibilities, matrix logic, looking for patterns, guess and check, sub-problems, unit analysis, solving an easier related problem, physical representations, working backwards, and Venn diagrams. This course also has a large focus on writing as students improve their writing skills while valuing the process of problem solving. At the conclusion of the course, students will take a final examination which focuses on a variety of strategies learned throughout the course. Prerequisite or concurrent: Integrated Math 2M, Integrated Math 2, Honors Integrated Math 2.
Social Studies
SOCIOLOGY (Grades 9-12)
(SOC4034)
This course introduces basic concepts and principles of social interaction and social institutions such as the family, the schools, the church and government. Contemporary problems concerning these interactions and institutions will be explored.
TOPICS IN PA HISTORY (Grades 9-12)
(SOC4041)
Pennsylvania is a remarkable state with a remarkable history that helped create the great nation of America. The course uses PA History as a basis for understanding current state policies, economic dynamics and cultural phenomenon. Students will experience history through the words of the people who lived it through the use of primary documents and film/video. Pennsylvania geography will be studied as it helped and continues to shape the development of the state. This project-based course has students spending a large portion of the class working collaboratively to achieve stated goals.
WAR AND SPORTS: US IN CONFLICT AND COMPETITION (Grades 9-12)
(SOC4035)
This will be an in-depth study of continuity and change in 20th and 21st Century America through the lenses of conflict and sports. The course will follow a chronological sequence of the last century. Students will learn and then evaluate US actions during major wars going into depth of events and personalities beyond their studies in US History. In addition to studying war, students will also evaluate social trends of different eras through the investigation of American sports and how those sports represent our culture then and today.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT UNITED STATES HISTORY (Grade 9)
(1 credit in place of H US History 9 plus 1 elective credit)
(SOC4015, SOC4016)
This course is designed to present a college-level survey of American History from Native Americans to the present. Students will be exposed to both facts and controversies in American History. The course requires: (a) an understanding of the principles in United States history; (b) an awareness of the consequences of American relations with the rest of the world; and (c) an ability to analyze historical evidence especially through the use of primary sources. The course is writing and reading intensive with essays and document-based questions at the core of study. Students recommended for this course and who opt to select this course to fulfill the 9th grade social studies requirement will receive one core credit and one elective credit as it is a full-year course. Summer assignments are required.
World Languages
FRENCH 1A, FRENCH 1B
(WLA5000, WLA5001)
French 1A focuses on the development of communicative competence in the French language and understanding of the culture of French speaking people. It assumes that the students have minimal or no prior knowledge of the language and culture. The major means of communication between students and instructors will be in the target language. Completion of Level 1A = Novice Mid-level proficiency per ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines.
French 1B focuses on the development of communicative competence in the French language and understanding of the culture of French speaking people. The major means of communication between students and instructors will be in the target language. Completion of Level 1B = Novice High level proficiency per ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines.
FRENCH 2
(WLA5002)
The Level 2 French course focuses on the development of communicative competence in the French language and understanding of the culture of French speaking people. Students begin to show a greater level of accuracy when using basic language structures and when exposed to more complex features of the language. They continue to focus on communicating about their immediate world and daily life activities, read material on familiar topics, and write short, directed compositions. The major means of communication between students and instructors will be in the target language. Completion of Level 2 = Intermediate-Low level proficiency per ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines. Prerequisite: Successful completion of a Level 1 course and/or are at a Novice-High level of proficiency.
HONORS FRENCH 3
(WLA5005)
This course focuses on the development of communicative competence in the French language and understanding of the culture of French speaking people. Students use basic language structures with accuracy and recombine learned material to express their thoughts. They are exposed to more complex features of the language, moving from concrete to some abstract concepts. It assumes that the students have successfully completed a Level 2 course and/or are at an Intermediate-Low level of proficiency. The major means of communication between students and instructors will be in the target language. Completion of Level 3 = Intermediate-Mid level proficiency per ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines. Prerequisite: Successful completion of French 2 and/or proficiency level of Intermediate Low
SPANISH 1A, SPANISH 1B
(WLA5010, WLA5011)
The Level 1A Spanish course focuses on the development of communicative competence in the Spanish language and understanding of the culture of Spanish speaking people. It assumes that the students have minimal or no prior knowledge of the language and culture. The major means of communication between students and instructors will be in the target language. In addition to classroom communication, students will be expected to utilize the resources of the language laboratory to improve their speaking and listening skills. By the end of Level 1A, students will exhibit Novice Mid level proficiency in listening, speaking, reading and writing according to the ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines.
The Level 1B Spanish course focuses on the development of communicative competence in the Spanish language and understanding of the culture of Spanish speaking people. It is expected that students have completed Spanish 1A or have had some previous study of the language. The major means of communication between students and instructors will be in the target language. In addition to classroom communication, students will be expected to utilize the resources of the language laboratory to improve their speaking and listening skills. By the end of Level 1B, students will exhibit Novice High level proficiency in listening, speaking, reading and writing according to the ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines.
SPANISH 2
(WLA5012)
The Level 2 Spanish course focuses on the development of communicative competence in the Spanish language and understanding of the culture of Spanish speaking people. Students begin to show a greater level of accuracy when using basic language structures, and they are exposed to more complex features of the language. They continue to focus on communicating about their immediate world and daily life activities, read material on familiar topics, and write short, directed compositions. It assumes that the students have successfully completed a Level 1 course and/or are at a Novice-High level of proficiency. The major means of communication between students and instructors will be in the target language. In addition to classroom communication, students will be expected to utilize the resources of the language laboratory to improve their speaking and listening skills. By the end of Level 2, students will exhibit Novice-High to Intermediate-Low level proficiency in the three modes of communication according to the ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines.
HONORS SPANISH 3
(WLA5015)
Honors Spanish 3 focuses on the development of communicative competence in the Spanish language and understanding of the culture of Spanish speaking people. Students use basic language structures with accuracy and recombine learned material to express their thoughts. They are exposed to more complex features of the language, moving from concrete to some abstract concepts. It assumes that the students have successfully completed a Level 2 course and/or are at a Novice-High to Intermediate-Low level of proficiency. The major means of communication between students and instructors will be in the target language. In addition to classroom communication, students will be expected to utilize the resources outside of the classroom to improve their speaking and listening skills. By the end of Level 3, students will exhibit at least Intermediate-Low level proficiency in the three modes of communication according to the ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines. Prerequisite: Successful completion of Spanish 2 and/or a proficiency level of Novice-High to Intermediate Low.
LATIN 1
(WLA5021)
This course introduces the vocabulary of basic daily Roman life and simple sentences using present, imperfect and perfect verb tenses in all four conjugations. Nouns in the first three declensions are used in the nominative, dative, accusative, and ablative cases. Short Latin passages are read and comprehended. Cultural aspects of Roman life are studied with a concentration on the city of Pompeii circa 78 A.D.
LATIN 2
(WLA5022)
This course extends vocabulary with increased complexity of sentences. The pluperfect tense, genitive case, ablative case, vocative case, relative pronouns, commands and participles (present and perfect passive) are introduced. Longer passages are read and comprehended encompassing multi-cultural diversity within the Roman Empire (Roman Britain and Egypt). Roman mythology and history are studied.
HONORS LATIN 3
(WLA5024)
This course builds upon the vocabulary and grammatical concepts learned in previous Latin courses. It introduces such grammatical concepts as all remaining tenses, the passive voice, deponent verbs, indirect statement, uses of the subjunctive mood, and the supine. The cultural and historical aspects of the course focus primarily on the Roman military and engineering in the early empire. Students begin to read authentic Latin texts and are prepared to read more challenging passages in the original Latin.
SEQUENCING AND AGE APPROPRIATENESS
The World Languages curriculum establishes what students will be able to do at designated benchmarks, Levels 1A through Advanced Placement, throughout their middle and/or high school career.
In order to enroll in a course, students must either have successfully completed the previous level of instruction or have demonstrated the required proficiency designated in the course description. Because students may begin formal language learning at various stages of development, content and vocabulary may be adjusted to reflect age appropriate interests.
Course levels do not correspond to a student’s grade level. Any student may begin study of a world language at any point in their academic career. Course levels offered at the middle school and the high school are sequential. Therefore if a student successfully completes a course at the middle school, that student should enroll in the next course in sequence at the high school. In the case of block scheduling, students may study two course levels within one academic year if they choose to take a world language in both the fall and spring semester.
PWHS Course Catalogs
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- PWHS Course Catalog
- Comprehensive Course List
- CMTHS Course Catalog
- Sample CMTHS Schedules
- Quick Course Guide for Freshman Year
- Quick Course Guide for Sophomore Year
- Quick Course Guide for Junior Year
- Quick Course Guide for Senior Year
- Electives Catalog for Incoming Freshmen
- IB Career Related Program
- PWHS Career Pathways
- PWHS Graduation Requirements
Course Selection Information
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