Course Descriptions
Course Descriptions
All courses/classes at The Hillside School and Learning Center are developed to help struggling students with or without ADD/ADHD or a learning disability manage the educational maze and move onto higher learning. We are committed to finding what best fits each Hillside student and producing results. Our school serves grades 7-12 with both a middle and high school. We offer tutoring and educational therapy for all grades K-12 and post high school support.
- Fully certified by the California Department of Education
- Courses accepted by both private and public universities nationwide
Click on a subject to see all the offerings:
LANGUAGE ARTS CLASSES OFFERED
UC approved / NCAA approved
These classes focus on building a student’s knowledge about basics writing components including sentence structure, grammar, punctuation, and paragraph development. Students will also build their vocabulary through workbook and practical applications, understanding the close ties that exist between roots, prefixes, and suffixes and the development of the English language. By reading a variety of short stories, poems and novels, students learn how to create basic analytical explanations, identify literary devices, and begin the process of finding useful quotes from literature in their comprehension answers.
UC approved / NCAA approved
This class develops the student’s ability to communicate effectively. Reading material is chosen from American literature, including non-fiction, poems, prose, and novels that emphasize and explore language, an author’s tone, style, and voice. In each unit, students will focus on a specific historical time period and learn about the literary themes associated with each era, understanding their significant events that influenced the writer’s chosen topics. Purposeful writing is practiced and students are encouraged to generate, refine, and develop their ideas with teacher-led instruction through Google Docs. However, writing is not taught in isolation rather, it is integrated with reading, listening, and speaking exercises that are built upon throughout the year.
Prerequisite: English 2
UC approved / NCAA approved
In English 4, students focus on developing high level analytical thinking. Students develop their abilities to communicate effectively orally and in formal written speech. Reading material is chosen from the British and World Literature selections and students will study the historical time period to understand the cultural influences in each selection. They will compare and contrast viewpoints, voice, traditions, analyze the theme in each selection, and how the author’s message is essential for developing strategies of literary criticism. In addition, students will develop their ability to write in a variety of tones, demonstrating proficiency at grade level according to the Common Core standards while participating in editing, revising and peer discussions. Discussions within the classroom will reflect the more mature audience, taking on
more controversial issues and problems with past and present societies around with world.
UC approved / NCAA approved / College Board approved
Advanced Placement English, Literature, and Composition is a college level course in fiction prose and an examination of language on a student’s own ability to create meaningful, sophisticated prose for specific purposes and audiences. More particularly, it is the examination of how language means in the contexts of prose fiction, drama, and poetry. As such, students will study a variety of texts to discover the techniques (literary device and form / style and voice) an author uses to present his / her purpose to a particular audience. Beyond this ‘indoctrination’ into close reading, students will be asked to explore the historical, cultural, political, psychological, and spiritual contexts from which these pieces emerge.
Prerequisites: None
UC approved / NCAA approved / College Board approved
Advanced Placement Language and Composition is a college level course in nonfiction prose and an examination of language on a student’s own ability to create meaningful, sophisticated exposition for specific purpose and audiences. More particularly, it is the examination of rhetoric in both the classic and contemporary sense of the word. In Aristotelian terms, it is “the faculty of observing in any given case the available means of persuasion.” As such, students will study a variety of texts to discover the most persuasive way (language and form / style and voice) an author has elected to present his / her purpose to a particular audience. In a decidedly more modern, if less precise context, it is the study of false language; language that misleads and distends, effects and exaggerates, ornaments and pretends. In short, we will feast on ‘how’ language means; how a speaker with knowledge of his audience and his subject will contextualize and develop his purpose using different expository patterns and specific elements of language.
Prerequisites: None
Co-Requisites: None
UC approved / NCAA approved
Creative writing focuses on exploring different genres of writing, speaking, and listening to aid students in their creative writing expression. By evaluating the effectiveness of a well-written narrative, students will begin to understand the elements necessary for creating a written first-person experience. In addition, students will identify the steps to create unique, dynamic characters, follow the elements of plot and understand how to use dialogue effectively. Poetry will be used to show rhythm and pattern, and students will read various poetic styles, comparing their qualities and differences. By the end of the course, students will have created a portfolio with examples of each genre and style studied.
UC approved
English One’s course theme is “SUSTAINABLE SELF” (encouraging students to connect who they are with what they are reading). Themes examined in this course are: The Quest for Identity, Coming of Age, Personal Transformation, Love, Courage, The Hero’s Journey, The Individual vs. Society, Empathy, Good vs. Evil (human nature and the dark side). As a result of this course, students will analyze themes, characters and types of conflict in detail all the while relating the literature to real world issues.
English One focuses on the five elements of language arts: reading, writing, speaking/listening, and language. The course offers a wide range of challenging literature in the traditional genres of short story, novel, drama, essay, and poetry, but also includes a wide variety of informational texts addressing 21st century literacy. A variety of writing modes are utilized (autobiography, biography, narrative, persuasive, expository, and reflective) while conventions of standard English are stressed: vocabulary, grammar, mechanics, punctuation, spelling and diction. Students will learn how to find and incorporate outside sources (including interviews) and write a full-length literary, eight to ten page research paper known as the “Isearch”. Each student is required to present their Isearch findings to the class as an expert on their topic (video presentation submission of themselves), similar to a modern TED Talk.
UC approved
English Two’s course theme is “REFLECTING IN LITERATURE” (encouraging students to connect who they are with what they are reading). Themes examined in this course are: Personal Transformation, Love, Courage, The Hero’s Journey, The Individual vs. Society, Empathy, Good vs. Evil (human nature and the dark side). As a result of this course, students will analyze themes, characters and types of conflict in detail all the while relating the literature to real world issues.
English two focuses on the five elements of language arts: reading, writing, speaking/listening, and language. The course offers a wide range of challenging literature in the traditional genres of short story, novel, drama, essay, and poetry, but also includes a wide variety of informational texts addressing 21st century literacy. A variety of writing modes are utilized (autobiography, biography, narrative, persuasive, expository, and reflective) while conventions of standard English are stressed: vocabulary, grammar, mechanics, punctuation, spelling and diction.
UC approved
English Three’s course theme is “RESPONSIBLE SELF” (encouraging students to have social awareness and become socially responsible). Themes examined in this course are: Personal Transformation, The Importance of Good Character, The Struggle in Human Nature, The Individual vs. Society, Empathy, The Quest for Love, Good vs. Evil (human nature and the dark side). As a result of this course, students will analyze themes, characters and types of conflict in detail all the while relating the literature to real world issues.
English Three focuses on the five elements of language arts: reading, writing, speaking/listening, and language. The course offers a wide range of challenging literature in the traditional genres of short story, novel, drama, essay, and poetry, but also includes a wide variety of informational texts addressing 21st century literacy. A variety of writing modes are utilized (autobiography, biography, narrative, persuasive, expository, and reflective) while conventions of standard English are stressed: vocabulary, grammar, mechanics, punctuation, spelling and diction.
UC approved
Theme – CONTRIBUTING SELF (Encouraging students to connect what they are reading with who they are and how they should give back).
Personal Transformation, Love, Courage, The Hero’s Journey, The Individual vs. Society, Empathy, Understanding, Good vs. Evil (Human Nature and the Dark Side)
English Four focuses on the five elements of the language arts: reading, writing, speaking, listening, and critical viewing. The course offers a wide range of challenging literature in the traditional genres of short story, novel, drama, essay, and poetry, but also includes a wide variety of informational texts addressing 21st century literacy and real world skills. Character education forms an important basis for this course, expressed in service-learning projects that strengthen and expand on skills and ideas learned in the classroom. English Four stresses evidence-based thinking, as well as writing, speaking, and study skills. Instruction and practice in writing concentrate on a variety of writing modes (narrative, persuasive, expository, and reflective) and teach the conventions of Standard English: vocabulary, grammar, mechanics,
punctuation, spelling and diction.
The senior research paper and project is a standard in this course. This final research paper is the culmination of every seniors’ research effort throughout the second semester. Every student will (i) organize their thoughts in what they have studied; (ii) demonstrate they have a good understanding of their chosen area of research; (iii) demonstrate what their research has entailed; (iv) convey to the school what they have learned from their efforts and how it fits into a broader context. The research paper consists of 10-12 pages, typed, in MLA format. During the last week of school, every student will present their research (4-5 minutes with visual aide) to the school in lieu of a final exam.
UC approved
Over the course of the year, students study, analyze and write personal narratives (quarter 1), poetry (quarter 2), fiction (quarter 3) and screenplays (quarter 4). Effective pre-writing, rough draft and final draft techniques are examined in order for students self-monitor prior to publishing their work electronically. Literary devices pertinent to each of the four genres is emphasized.
Creative Writing gives students strategies and practice in writing poetry, prose, and criticism. Through large and small groups, students discuss the aesthetic values of word choice, the importance of criticism, and the demands of finding one’s voice. Students will also acquire tools for improving their writing skills including: writing process (pre-writing, drafting, peer editing, editing, proofreading, and publishing), close reading, writing exercises, and correct mechanics and grammar use.
Other possible writing projects include: genre fiction (Sci-fi, Fantasy, Western, Horror, Romance, Mystery, Crime), graphic novels (aka comic books), playwriting, screenwriting, creative non-fiction, journalism, reviews (books, films, video games, etc.) and new media writing including blogging, tweeting, and hypertext/hyperlink. The learning process and outcomes will emphasize the conventions and forms of each genre, the writing process and revision, the workshop model of critique, the mechanics of writing, critical and creative reading of successful works, and how audience affects tone, diction, and style.
The overall purpose of the course is to study the components of fiction such as dialogue, plot, character development, world-building, and point of view through short stories, poetry, novel selections, and creative non-fiction. Students will analyze these features as different authors use them across a variety of genres. After thorough analysis (written and oral), students will work to develop a portfolio of authentic literary works of their own where they purposefully use each of these elements. Students will use these elements throughout their portfolios and will also submit multiple drafts, revise, and edit work in order to ready pieces from their portfolios for submission. Their portfolio should consider the basics of the story: stakes, time and place, subplots, pace, and endings as well as a theme. Students will also study the hero’s journey and the structure of the mythic journey and will work to integrate this structure into the journeys of their protagonists.
MATHEMATICS CLASSES OFFERED
UC approved / NCAA approved
This course is the first course in the “College Preparatory Math” Sequence covering the full year of Algebra 1. Topics covered are: the number line, operations with rational numbers, linear equations and inequalities, graphing of points and lines in coordinated planes, systems of linear equations, operations of polynomials and radicals, rational exponents, and quadratic equations.
Prerequisite: a grade of “C” or better in Pre Algebra, recommendation of current math teacher, and recommending score on appropriate diagnostic test.
UC approved / NCAA approved
This is the second course in the college preparatory sequence and includes concepts of points, lines, planes, angles, perpendicular and parallel lines, polygons, congruence, similarity, types of quadrilateral, logical deduction and proofs, right triangle relationships, circles and their parts, area, volume, constructions, loci, and coordinate geometry and transformations.
Recommendation: Grade of “C” or better in Algebra I or Algebra I B.
UC approved / NCAA approved
This course is a continuation of Algebra 1 and is necessary to prepare the student for advanced mathematics. This course integrates a quick review of Algebra 1, expansion on the content introduced in Algebra 1, and an introduction into new topics. Emphasis is placed on abstract thinking skills, the function concepts, graphs, and the algebraic solution of problems in various content areas. These content areas include quadratic equations, systems of equations, logarithmic and exponential functions, polynomials, rational algebraic expressions, sequences and series, the complex number system, and trigonometry.
Prerequisite: Passing grade in Algebra I; grade of “C” or better recommended. The use of a scientific calculator is recommended for this course.
NCAA approved
This course offers a fourth year in math that reinforces concepts learned in Algebra 1, Geometry, and Algebra 2 and integrates them in preparation for a college level math class. The goal of the course is to awaken the students’ natural mathematical abilities and direct their intellectual curiosity to how math can be used to quantify concepts in many different subjects, including chemistry, physics, astronomy, law, music, sports, and technology. The algebraic skills and concepts learned in this course are developed and used in a wide variety of problem-solving situations. Topics include the foundations and fundamentals of number systems, equations and inequalities, functions and their graphs, polynomial and rational functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, trigonometric functions, trigonometric identities and equations, applications of trigonometry, relations and conic sections, systems of equations and inequalities, integer functions, and probability.
UC approved / NCAA approved
This course is designed to prepare the serious student of mathematics for the study of precalculus and calculus. Topics covered are basic algebra concepts, analysis of functions and techniques for graphing polynomial, rational, radical functions, limits of functions and introduction to calculus.
Prerequisite: A grade of “C” or better in Algebra II, recommendation of current math teacher, and recommending score on appropriate diagnostic test. A grade of “B” or better in Algebra II is highly recommended.
UC approved
Applied Calculus is a year-long course using an applied approach to the mathematical concepts. The concepts include but are not limited to functions, limits, derivatives, differentiation and the applications of the derivatives, exponential and logarithmic functions, multivariate functions and trigonometry concepts needed for science and engineering. The teacher will present the mathematical concepts using the practical examples in the textbook. In addition, the teacher will contribute other examples. Students will create a practical model that also represents the concept as part of the evaluation process. Exams, quizzes, textbook exercises, and group work are part of the class.
This course prepares students for the math placement exam upon entering college. Topics covered are basic math/arithmetic, algebra, geometry and advanced math topics including trigonometry. Students review topics they learned in all previous math courses in which they were enrolled. Then practice tests are given in each area to assess their knowledge and retention. Students are also given the opportunity to perform the assessments with a similar setting they would expect during the placement exam such as the use of scratch paper and no calculator. Students advance topics based on their level and abilities.
This course is designed to reinforce topics covered in Algebra 1. Students who successfully completed Algebra 1 but still require or prefer another year to review the topics so that the information is retained choose this course. See description of Algebra 1 above.
This course is designed to reinforce topics covered in Geometry. Students who successfully completed Geometry or choose not to take Geometry, but still require or prefer another year to review the topics so that the information is retained choose this course. See description of Geometry above. Students who have not completed Geometry learn the basics of Geometry without complex applications but still review the content standards.
NCAA approved
Students learn statistical concepts and learn their applications in many disciplines including social sciences, math, and science. Probability, data and data collection, distributions, variance, confidence intervals, hypothesis tests, inference of data and regression models are under investigation in this course.
SCIENCE CLASSES OFFERED
UC approved / NCAA approved
This is a laboratory science course that covers topics of the California State standards. These topics include identifying the basis of life, applying genetics, understanding the interrelationships of the environment and the organisms, classifying organisms, discovering the functions and importance of the human organ systems. Laboratories are designed to enhance student learning through observation and experience by means of hands-on activities.
Prerequisite: None
UC approved / NCAA approved / College Board approved
The Advance Placement Biology Course is designed for students to have a solid foundation in an introductory college level course in Biology. It is equivalent to a two-semester college introductory course usually taken by Biology majors during their freshman year. This course is for students who are highly motivated and have a strong interest in science. The major topics of study include biochemistry, cells, cellular energetics, genetics, evolution, classification, organisms’ structure and function and ecology. It will be based on the College Board AP Biology “Four Big Ideas”, enduring understandings, and science practices to assist the students to better understand the study of life and appreciate how these concepts and principles work together in a complex biological world. The class will be taught a combination of discussions, activities, projects, and laboratory activities. This course will allow students to participate in the learning process by using techniques and strategies that scientists use to apply and problem solve
scientific problems or inquiries. At the completion of this course, students are expected to take the College Board’s AP Biology exam. Some students may earn college credit if they earn high enough marks on this exam. In class, the format of each chapter test is similar to the AP Biology exam. Students are expected to demonstrate critical thinking skills through their answers to both multiple choice questions and essay questions each chapter.
Prerequisites: Biology and Chemistry
Co-Requisites: None
UC approved / NCAA approved
This laboratory science course in chemistry covers and exceeds topics of the California State standards. These topics include: understanding elements, component distribution of electrons, protons, and neutrons during chemical reactions, balancing chemical equation and basic quantitative analysis. Laboratories are designed to predict, observe, and evaluate these changes. Instruction is given in laboratory safety, scientific observation, instrument use, accurate measurement, and proper handling and disposal of chemicals. Laboratory investigations demonstrate chemical reactions, changing states of matter, equilibrium, solubility, precipitation, acids and bases, electrochemistry, and thermodynamics.
Recommendation: Grade of “C” or better in Algebra I; currently enrolled in or having completed Algebra II.
UC approved / NCAA approved
This is a laboratory science course in Physics that includes topics of the California State Standards. These topics include but are not limited to kinetic motion, Newton’s laws, motion and forces, conservation of energy and momentum, heat and thermodynamics, waves and electric and magnetic phenomena.
Recommendation: Grade of “C” or better in Algebra II and Chemistry.
UC approved
This geological science course is designed to give students an understanding of the physical aspects and processes of Earth. Students will learn how geology is a multidisciplinary science that pulls from chemistry, biology, and physics to understand and explain Earth’s physical systems. This course will explore how we are affected by these processes and how the Earth is a dynamic system. Student’s scientific curiosity will be engaged in the form of course lectures, teacher- and student-led discussions, hands-on classroom laboratory activities, and field trips. Classroom lectures and discussions are intended to provide students with a basic understanding of geologic topics including: minerals, rocks, fossils, geologic time, plate tectonics, weathering and erosion, fluvial processes, coastal processes, aeolian processes, earthquakes, volcanoes, mass wasting, and planetary geology. Course lab activities will include lab reports; use of hand samples to identify minerals, rocks, and fossils; and the use of computers and open source programs to investigate geologic processes. Lab activities will typically be done with one to two lab partners. This encourages students to learn how to interact with others to solve complex
problems. The state of California provides a natural laboratory for students to see Earth processes in action, find examples of many geologic phenomena, and observe the causes and effects of a dynamic planet. To further the student’s enrichment of geology topics, one or more field trips may be included throughout the course. These field trips may include a visit to the Caltech seismology lab (earthquakes), La Brea Tar Pits (fossils), JPL (planetary geology), and various local points of interest to see geology in the field. At the end of the course, students will have an understanding of how Earth’s systems work, be able to engage in scientific communication as it relates to Earth systems, and be able to formulate hypotheses and use the scientific method to navigate scientific curiosity. This course is intended to help prepare
students for the expectations of college level science courses.
UC approved / NCAA approved
This is a course in Geology that covers the California State Standards. The topics include: understanding weather and climate, volcanoes, earth structure, crystals, types of rocks and the rock cycle, Plate Tectonics, Earthquakes, the Planets and other heavenly structures, water bodies and maps. The class is not a UC approved laboratory class, but strategies will include simple laboratory activities that involve measurement, graphing, analysis and movement.
Recommendation: Current enrollment in Geometry or Algebra 2 is strongly recommended with the recommendation signature of science teacher.
UC approved / NCAA approved
This is an introductory course that covers the California State standards in Science. The topics include: understanding in both the microscopic and macroscopic aspects of life. In addition, a deeper study and focus on the chemistry of life, cell, cellular processes, human biology, taxonomy, evolution and ecosystems. The course is not a U.C. approved laboratory course, however it will include laboratory activities.
UC approved / NCAA approved
This is an introductory course that covers the Common Core Standards in Physical Science. The topics include but are not limited to: the basic principles of chemistry, physics, motion, vectors, electricity, sound, light, atoms and molecules, compounds, mole, physical and chemical changes, organic compounds and chemical equations. This course is not a U.C. laboratory course, however it will include laboratory activities to enhance understanding of the concepts.
UC approved
The Biology Course is designed for students to have a solid foundation in high school level Biology class. This course is for students who have to satisfy the Biological Science Laboratory requirement for High School graduation. This course is designed as an online/hybrid (online remote teacher and face to face teacher) class. Most of the information, requirements, and supplemental materials are found online in the teacher website. Some laboratory activities and presentations will be done in a physical classroom due to laboratory equipment requirement or evaluation purposes. The major topics of study include biochemistry, cells, cellular energetics, genetics, evolution, classification, organisms’ structure and function and ecology. It will be based the California Content Standards in High School Biology and the Common Core State Standards for High School Life Science. The course will be taught a combination of discussions (rich multimedia presentations, videos, etc.), activities, projects, and laboratory activities. This
course will allow students to participate in the learning process by using techniques and strategies that scientists use to apply and problem solve scientific problems or inquiries. Students are expected to demonstrate critical thinking skills through their answers to both multiple choice questions and essay questions for each chapter. Assessments
The purpose of this course is to satisfy the Biological Science Laboratory requirement for High School graduation. The course is designed to prepare students for College Biology. This online/hybrid course is designed for students who can work independently and in a group. Each student will perform laboratory experiments appropriate for this course as listed in the Course Schedule portion of this Syllabus. The major topics of study include biochemistry, cells, cellular energetics, genetics, evolution, classification, organisms’ structure and function and ecology. It will be based the California Content Standards in High School Biology and the Common Core State Standards for High School Life Science. They will know the applications of the information that will be taught to them. This course will allow students to use techniques and strategies to solve scientific problems or inquiries. They will follow all safety procedures and conduct the experiments according to the procedure presented. The students my, at times, create their own procedure to prove their hypothesis to solve for a specific problem and derive conclusions based on their data and observations. They will create laboratory reports or scientific papers and will be required to share and communicate their results to the class in an online or face to face setting. They will be able to understand the relationship of the external world to the internal processes in each organism. Students will understand and remember the concepts and will be able to find a connection between the concepts and the importance of each one in a holistic way.
UC approved
Chemistry is devoted to the study of how matter is categorized, how matter reacts, atomic and molecular theories, causes of chemical reactions, and the properties and structure of matter. This course provides opportunity for students to develop scientific process skills, laboratory techniques (3 hours/week in a classroom setting), and an understanding of the fundamental principles of chemistry through the use of technology. In addition, students enrolled in this course are expected to: (1) gain an understanding of the history of chemistry, (2) explore the uses of chemistry in various careers, (3) investigate chemical questions and problems related to personal needs and societal issues, (4) learn and practice laboratory safety, and (5) use mathematical problem solving.
The Chemistry course is designed for any student who needs to satisfy the Chemistry Laboratory requirement for high school graduation. This course is designed as an online/hybrid (online remote teacher and face to face teacher) class. Most of the information, requirements, and supplemental materials are found online on the teacher’s website. Most of the laboratory activities and presentations will be done in a physical classroom due to laboratory equipment requirement or evaluation purposes (about 3 hours per week of face to face time between student and teacher). The topics addressed in the course will follow the California Science Content Standards for Chemistry including matter and energy, atomic structure, the periodic table, ionic/covalent bonds, the mole, stoichiometry, gas laws, acids/bases, chemical reactions, and nuclear chemistry.
The course will be taught in conjunction with online class discussions, multimedia presentations, videos, online simulations, group activities, projects, and laboratory activities. The course is designed to allow students to participate in the learning process by using techniques and strategies that scientists use to apply and problem solve scientific problems or inquiries. The students enrolled in the course are expected to demonstrate critical thinking skills through chapter assessments (consisting of both multiple choice questions and essay questions) and laboratory activity write-ups.
The laboratory component of the course will be completed in a classroom setting (with face to face time with the students and the teacher) approximately a total of 3 hours per week. Many of the labs for the laboratory component will consist of inquiry lab activities (approximately 2 per unit) which will be designed and conducted by the students (in the classroom setting). Supplemental labs and individual/group activities will be completed as a portion of the online component of the class. The supplemental labs and activities are designed to deepen and reinforce the concepts of each unit of study. Through the in-class lab activities and the online lab portion of the course, the students will write scientific lab reports (lab write-ups) to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the concept(s) addressed including their
testable hypothesis, data collected, graphs/charts, data analysis, discussion of their results, and a logical/valid conclusion. For the online labs and activities portion, the students will participate in online discussions and forums to share their results in a small scientific community. Some of the supplemental labs will require visual representations including Google Docs presentations and video presentations.
SOCIAL SCIENCE CLASSES OFFERED
UC approved / NCAA approved
This course examines the major turning points in shaping the modern world from the 18th Century to the present. Students will review the rise of democratic ideas studied in the 7th grade and will connect these ideas to the major world events of the last five centuries. Students will have the opportunity to study major issues, such as representative forms of government, nationalism, imperialism, and the wars of the 20th Century in-depth.
Prerequisite: None
UC approved
The goals of this class are to introduce students to cultural, economic, political, and social developments that played a fundamental role in shaping the world in which they live. Without this knowledge, we would lack the context for understanding the development of contemporary institutions, the role of continuity and change in present-day society and politics, and the evolution of current forms of artistic expression and intellectual discourse.
The goals of World History are to develop (a) an understanding of some of the principal themes in modern history, (b) an ability to analyze historical evidence and historical interpretation, and (c) an ability to express historical understandings in writing.
The primary way of communication and turning in of assignments will be through the google suite – docs, slides, etc. Each chapter will include a study guide (guided reading questions, paragraph/critical thinking questions, etc.), a powerpoint presentation through google slides, as well as various handouts. Handouts include but are not limited to: primary/secondary sources, political cartoons, videos, activities, group or partner assignments, projects, research, short answer questions, essays and DBQ’s.
UC approved / NCAA approved
This course examines the major turning points in American History beginning in the late 1800s and into the 21st Century. Students will study the social and cultural effects of a global economy, changes in the ethnic composition of American society, equal rights for all cultures, Constitutional rights, political principles, and the role of the United States as a major world power.
Prerequisite: None
UC approved / NCAA approved
This one-semester course studies the structure and procedures of federal, state and local government and the fundamental themes of government such as federalism, separation of powers, majority and minority rights. Case studies from current issues are used to exemplify government in action. Students also meet their local representatives. The goal of this course is to ensure that students understand political decision-making and their responsibilities as members of our political system.
UC approved
American Government is a one-semester course (for seniors although not required, but recommended) that helps prepare students to participate in exercising their political responsibilities as thoughtful and informed citizens. Civics provides a basis for understanding the rights and responsibilities for being an American citizen and a framework for competent and responsible participation. Emphasis is placed on the historical development of government and political systems, the importance of the rule of law, the United States Constitution, Federal, State and local government structure, and rights and responsibilities of citizenship, political parties and their functions, as well as foreign governmental structures. Students will actively investigate local, state and national issues, read and participate in discussions, and develop and
present classroom projects to class.
UC approved / NCAA approved
This one semester course is an introduction into the concepts of microeconomics and macroeconomics. This course is designed to give seniors an understanding of how our economic system functions in relation to our political environment and in an increasing global economy. Current events and case-studies are used to explore topics such as the federal budget and trade deficits.
Prerequisite: None
UC approved
Economics is a semester course graduation requirement in which students will focus on how individuals, businesses, and governments make economic choices. This is done at both the microeconomic and macroeconomic level, both of which will be examined in detail. Students will be able to use measurement concepts and methods such as tables, charts, graphs, ratios, percentages and index numbers to understand and interpret relevant data. A major portion of the semester is focused on the law of supply and demand, forms of business, economies ranging from traditional to free market, government finances (federal, state and local), money and prices, inflation and deflation cycles, foreign economies and the effect on U. S. markets.
Course Objectives: Students will be become active and critical readers on various types of governmental documents. Students will be able to analyze graphs, charts, interpret data, and maps to help better understand information about U.S. economic and foreign systems. Students will be able to research, collect and organize information in written and oral formats as well as develop strong presentation skills.
UC approved / NCAA approved
This one-semester elective course focuses on development and establishment of the state of California. Beginning with its Native American History, and continuing to the Spanish influence, Gold Rush and westward movement, this course interrelates the development of the US and world and its impact of California. Several field trips help supplement the extensive classroom studies.
UC approved / NCAA approved
This course is designed to provide an opportunity for students to study the interaction of man and his environment. The study includes current developments around the world, which effect physical and cultural settings. Emphasis is placed on geographical processes, which effect decisions concerning interrelationships among nations, production and distribution of goods, uses and abuses of resources, and political and economic conditions.
FOREIGN LANGUAGE CLASSES OFFERED
UC approved / NCAA approved
In this beginning course, students focus on building a vocabulary base to communicate effectively, basic grammar structures, listening and reading comprehension, and writing. Students will also learn about the Spanish speaking world through the use of primary sources, multimedia materials, and the textbook.
UC approved / NCAA approved
This course is a continuation of Spanish I, and students will continue to develop speaking and listening skills and broaden their knowledge of grammar. The students are expected to participate in class activities using the Spanish language. Emphasis is placed on improving language skills through the introduction of various tenses, improving oral and written communication skills, and on the study of the Latin culture.
Prerequisite: Passing grade in Spanish I or test into the class.
UC approved / NCAA approved
This course is a continuation of Spanish 2 and students are expected to not only communicate verbally in Spanish, but read and write as well. While these skills are developed in Spanish 1 and 2, it is in Spanish 3 that literature, composition, and grammar are particularly emphasized as students are exposed to the cultural history of the Spanish speaking world.
Prerequisite: Passing grade in Spanish 2 or test into the class.
UC approved / NCAA approved
Emphasis in this 4th year course is on developing and improving linguistic skills in grammar, listening and reading comprehension, and writing. Students will read, discuss and write essays, make presentations, and engage in a series of research projects in Spanish while strengthening their knowledge of the Spanish speaking world.
UC approved / College Board approved
The AP Spanish Language and Culture course is a rigorous course which provides students opportunities to develop language proficiency across the three modes of communication: Interpretive, Interpersonal, and Presentational. Students learn about culture through the use of authentic materials that are representative of the Spanish-speaking world. Materials include a variety of different media, e.g., journalistic and literary works, podcasts, interviews, movies, charts, and graphs. Some of the works read are short stories published in “Nuevas Vistas” and the following novels: La tierra del tiempo perdido by José María Merino, Senderos Fronterizos by Francisco Jimenez, and Marianela by Benito Pérez Galdós.
AP Spanish Language and Culture is a language acquisition course designed to provide students with the necessary skills and intercultural understanding to enable them to communicate successfully in an environment where Spanish is spoken and as such, is an immersion experience requiring almost exclusive use of Spanish, a requirement which class participation grades reflect.
UC approved / NCAA approved
This course is an introduction to French language and culture. Pronunciation, vocabulary, grammar and hearing/speaking skills are stressed. No previous background in French is necessary.
UC approved
This course is a continuation of French 1, covering in greater depth conversational skills, vocabulary, grammar and culture. The second year of foreign language study is often considered the most difficult.
Prerequisite: A “C” or better in French 1
UC approved
French 3 is designed for students who have completed French 1 and French 2 . Students will learn how to communicate in French and write in different tenses. The course is conducted primarily in French with the goal of attaining proficiency in the areas of listening. They will strengthen their knowledge already acquired in the previous 2 years. The focus of the course will be on reading, speaking correctly with correct use of grammar. The course with emphasis on current events, cultural topics, literature, history in France.
Prerequisite: A “C” or better in French 2
UC approved
The course is taught mostly and gives students the opportunity to demonstrate proficiency in the French language. Students study the culture and history of France. French as a fluid language is the goal in this course with the use of accurate and natural use of the language. Reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills are all emphasized throughout the various themes and the language used in real-life settings.
Prerequisite: A “C” or better in French 3
UC approved / NCAA approved
This course introduces student to concepts of the German language (vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation, and usage). The people, geography, and custom of German speaking countries are also included.
FITNESS CLASSES OFFERED
This course offers a personalized fitness program for a healthy lifestyle through selected recreational and post-high school activities. The breakdown of these activities build upon what the student already knows about strengthening, motor coordination, cardiovascular-fitness, and muscle tone. In team activities, students develop an understanding and an appreciation of each person’s part of the activity as well as their own by taking into account each person’s strengths and weaknesses. In addition, students learn to strategize and predict outcomes for different situations during the recreational and team activities. It is particularly through the team and recreational activities that a student’s self-image and personal and social development may be enhanced or destroyed therefore, building a strong foundation (strength and conditioning) to achieve some measure of success for the activity is carefully considered.
There are several components and concepts that are included in this program: endurance through cardio fitness, eye-hand and eye-foot coordination, movement patterns, rhythm, dance, balance, muscular strength, social interaction, self responsibility and group dynamics. Students are required to complete 60 hours of physical activity to earn 1 semester of PE credit. Students must accumulate the hours with an instructor, coach or other certified fitness professional and have verification of hours completed.
This required semester course will emphasizes the practical application of knowledge to healthful daily living. Wise decision-making skills are developed as students explore health related areas such as wellness, mental health, nutrition, eating disorders, physical fitness, substance abuse, human sexuality, growth and development, reproductive health, communicable diseases including sexually transmitted diseases and HIV/AIDS, abuse and violence prevention, sexual harassment, and consumer health decisions. Students are encouraged to take personal responsibility in making healthy decisions in regard to their physical and emotional well-being. Personal assessments, role-playing, problem solving, and many hands on activities reinforce the learned material.
ART CLASSES OFFERED
Provides a variety of experiences for both the beginning and intermediate student in art concepts and techniques. Includes study in drawing, painting, design, color theory, basic elements and principles of art. Effort is made to provide individual instruction to match student interest and skills.
Grading: Based on artwork assignments, participation and portfolio of projects
Books: Teacher’s discretion
UC approved
Provides sequential learning in a variety of drawing techniques and media. Students have the opportunity to work in areas of visual art that they have a strong interest in. Visits to artist studios and /or museums is at teacher’s discretion.
Prerequisite: A “B” or better in Basic Art I and the recommendation of the teacher or a portfolio review.
Grading: Based on artwork assignments, final portfolio, project and participation
Books: Teacher’s discretion
UC approved
The Performance Arts course is designed to be an introduction to theater. We will begin with the basics of movement on stage, stage directions, and working with others on set. Students will learn about creating characters and developing scenes. They will explore the technical side of theater as well, including set design, lighting, sound, costumes, makeup, and props. They will also explore other forms of visual entertainment such as musical theater, film, and television. This course will culminate with the performance of Freak the Mighty.
UC approved
This course explores art in many forms as well as historical timeline of different art including their cultural connections. Students study the different media and methods of art from the beginning to modern art. Another goal of this course is for students to appreciate concepts, techniques and history of art.
UC approved
This class is an introduction to the fundamental use of design principles. The student will be made familiar with Adobe desktop publishing software in a Mac environment and how to use these tools to create pleasing, effective and communicative designs. Subjects included are lecture and discussion of color, resolution, pixels, vectors images enhancement, layout, visual organization, visual hierarchy, typography, theory, practice and technology, as they pertain to the field of graphic design. A number of projects will be a practical means of achieving higher proficiency and certainty in areas studied in this course.
ELECTIVE CLASSES OFFERED
This course as a means to improve your academic success in high school. In the classroom, students will able to complete assignments, organize information and start projects. Students will also have the availability to meet with teachers (pre-arraigned) during class to cover any material they need help with. It is extremely important that students use this time wisely and complete as much homework as possible. Once completed, students may read, free write, or work on other projects. They may not use their phones or any other electronic device unless it is for educational purposes. If they fail to abide by this policy, I will ask parents to keep phone or computer at home.
Grading Policy:
40%-Assignment Completion
30%-Organization (homework, backpack, folder, locker)
20%-Citizenship (following classroom rules)
10%-Attendance/Participation
A teacher assistant helps a teacher in many areas and varies daily. Some duties may include making phone calls, taking and sending messages, locate and re-arrange materials/office, mail newsletters, promotional material, and other information, Set up and maintain paper and set up and maintain filing systems for records, correspondence, and other material. Take dictation in shorthand or by machine, and transcribe information, conduct searches to find needed information, using such sources as the Internet, operate office equipment such as fax machines, copiers, and phone systems, and use computers for spreadsheet, word processing, database management, and other applications. This is not an extensive list. Teachers utilize their TA in any area the teacher sees fit to have a student help complete.
UC approved
Students create computer programs that develop problem-solving skills. They will learn programming, computer terminology, computer hardware and software and the applications of many programs including Microsoft applications, Apple applications and 3-D printing. This course also teaches the integration of other subject areas and the use of these programs.
UC approved / NCAA approved
This elective course will allow students to study basic sociological principles while learning the various techniques of measuring and observing sociological patterns of human behavior. Contemporary social problems and how they affect the quality of life in the United States are also included in this course. Students are given ample opportunity to explore the complex sociological factors of their lives, enabling them to become competent adults.
UC appproved
This course deals with interactions between people and the phenomena that those interactions create: social structure, institutions, stratification, and collective behavior. This course is organized under the framework of the three major theoretical perspectives: functionalism, the conflict perspective, and symbolic interactionism. Students gain an understanding of the scientific method as applied to social groups. With this course, students gain the critical thinking skills necessary to understand what they see in the news, in the world and with their own lives. With this understanding, students may more effectively deal with social problems.
UC approved / NCAA approved
The purpose of this elective course is to provide students with a broad understanding of the diverse areas of psychology, and the people and theories behind them. Through the use of hand-on activities and individual and group work, students will develop an understanding of human behavior. Students will also gain insight into their own behaviors. The subject matter will be pertinent to both students’ interest and pressing social issues. Students enrolled in this class must participate in 20 hours of community service, preferably working with people.