Departments

English Department

ENGLISH 9:

1 Credit

This course studies literary genres including short stories, poetry, novels, nonfiction, and drama. Also integral to the course are writing skills, concentrating on content, sentence structure, paragraphing, and organization for the digital and competitive working world. Drama includes a Shakespearean play. Vocabulary acquisition and text analysis are required.  Assignments include reading, compositions, reports, and creative projects. Summer reading is mandatory.

ENGLISH 9 HONORS:

1 Credit

This course will cover the English 9 course requirements at an accelerated pace. Several additional works will be studied to help students further develop their literary appreciation and writing skills. Honors classes for underclassmen are preparation for junior and senior year Advanced Placement courses in English. Vocabulary acquisition and text analysis are required to prepare for the digital and competitive working world. Completion of summer reading is mandatory.

Prerequisite: Department recommendation

READING DEVELOPMENT

1/2 Credit; Grade 9

Reading Development is a requirement of some ninth graders, based upon the scores received on the Reading Comprehension portion of the High School Entrance Exam.  Students will read in several genres: magazine, newspaper, short play, short story, and nonfiction textbook selections.  Skills will be practiced for comprehension such as prediction, paraphrasing, noting contextual clues, noting author’s use of diction, syntax, tone, and others.  Much time is devoted to reading, the research-proven method to improve reading skills.  To this end, many Fridays will be devoted to individual free reading.  A final project will be required based on the book selection.  Each student’s improvement, assessed by a pre and post-course exam, will also determine the final grade.  This is a one-semester course.

ENGLIGH 10:

1 Credit

The second year of English is an overview of World Literature. The study involves deepening the understanding of literary forms such as the novel, drama, short story, nonfiction, and poetry begun in the freshman year. Mastery of vocabulary and progress in grammar are considered essential. Outside assignments include novel reading, composition, and projects. Completion of summer reading is a requirement of the course.

Prerequisite: Successful completion of English 9

ENGISH 10 HONORS:

1 Credit

The second year of English is an overview of World Literature. The study involves a deeper understanding of literary forms such as the novel, drama, short story, nonfiction, and poetry. A major stress is placed on reading assignments and analytical essays. The titles of novels to be read will be selected from a preparatory college reading list. Mastery of selected vocabulary will be expected. Outside assignments include reading, composition, and research work. Honors classes for underclassmen are preparation for junior and senior year Advanced Placement courses in English. Completion of summer reading is a requirement of the course. The course pace is accelerated.

Prerequisite: Department recommendation

ENGLISH 11 REGENTS:

1 Credit

This course is a survey of major American writers. The course is approached from the type of literature studied historically and chronologically. There is also a focus on reading and responding to works of nonfiction.  Research techniques are an integral part of the course work. Other types of writing, such as analysis and argument, are taught. All students will take the Comprehensive English Regents Exam in June. Summer reading is required.

Prerequisite: Successful completion of English 10

ENGLISH 11 - AP LANGUAGE 7 COMPOSITION:

1 Credit

This college-level course is the equivalent of English 11 Honors. The student who selects AP English Language should be college-bound and have a good command of reading, writing, and discussion skills. The content of this course is similar to that of a freshman writing course in college. The emphasis of the literature studied is nonfiction.  Nightly assignments of reading and/or writing can be expected. At the end of the year, students will take the A.P. Language and Composition Exam. The cost of this exam is approximately $90. Students who pass the A.P. Exam may be eligible for college credit. A summer reading assignment, including written paper due upon return in the fall, will be required and will be incorporated into the first marking period grade.

Prerequisite: Successful completion of  English 10 Honors, with an average of 92 or better AND department recommendation.

Note – AP Language students will also take the New York State English Regents Exam in June.

WRITING DEVELOPMENT:

1/2 Credit; Grade 11

This course is designed to aid students weak in composition. It is mandatory for juniors who have been identified by the English Department as having difficulty with writing skills at the end of their sophomore year. This course is offered in addition to the regular requirements in English. Satisfactory completion of assigned writing is a must for credit.

ENGLISH 12 - INTRODUCTION TO COLLEGE COMPOSITION 

1 Credit

Introduction to College Composition will introduce the various forms of reading and writing expected of college freshmen.  This course will also prepare students for the expectations of reading and communication beyond high school.  This course will require students to complete one polished piece of writing per quarter, as well as several small essays.  In addition to the required Shakespearean play, students will be responsible for completing various supplemental readings (newspaper articles, scholarly journal articles, digital publications, etc.).  English 12 also gives students introductory lessons in print journalism and requires them to contribute to The Marian Gazette newspaper.  Summer reading is a requirement of the course.

Prerequisite: Successful completion of English 11

ENGLISH 12 - AP LITERATURE & COMPOSITION

1 Credit

This college-level course is the equivalent of English 12 Honors. The student who selects this course should be college-bound and have a good command of reading, writing, and discussion skills. Nightly assignments of reading and/or writing can be expected. At the end of the year, students will take the A.P. English Literature and Composition Exam. The cost of this A.P. exam is approximately $90. Students who pass the A.P. exam may be eligible for college credit. A summer reading assignment, including written paper, is due upon return in the fall; completion of this assignment is a course requirement.

Prerequisite: In order to take the course, the senior must have either scored mastery level on the New York State English Regents Exam or scored a 3 or higher on the AP English Literature and Composition Exam.

Electives

CREATIVE WRITING:

1/2 Credit; Grades 10-12

This elective is designed to aid the student in his/her creative expression, as well as delivery of one’s own writing. The first quarter will focus on fiction. Students will read and evaluate the effectiveness of fiction of varying styles. They will write and workshop short stories to complete a final portfolio. The second quarter will focus on poetry. Students will learn poetic vocabulary, and read and compose poems of varying styles. Students will write and workshop each other’s poetry to complete a final portfolio at the end of the quarter. Students will be expected to deliver their writing to an audience.

Foreign Language Department

SPANISH 1:

1 Credit

Level 1 courses are designed to help students develop the skills of listening comprehension, reading, speaking, and writing as well as an understanding and appreciation of culture. Emphasis is on communicative proficiency. There is a local exam in June.

Note: All incoming Freshmen with previous language experience must complete the St. Mary’s HS LOTE Placement Exam.

SPANISH 2 B:

1 Credit

Level 2 courses reinforce the skills and vocabulary taught in Level 1. Concentration is on further development of listening comprehension, conversation, culture, and increased reading and extended writings. There is continued emphasis on communicative proficiency. There is a local exam in June.

Prerequisite:  Department approval. For incoming Freshmen, placement is contingent on performance on the St. Mary’s LOTE Placement Exam.

SPANISH 2 A:

1 Credit

This course offers the student an opportunity to master the Spanish 2 materials at an accelerated pace. Emphasis is placed on the four proficiency skills: listening comprehension, conversation and presentation, reading and writing. Spontaneous conversational activities and advanced readings are an integral part of this course.

Prerequisite:  Enrollment is by invitation of the Languages other than English Department. For incoming Freshmen, placement is contingent on performance on the St. Mary’s LOTE Language Placement Exam.

SPANISH 3:

1 Credit

This course emphasizes advanced listening comprehension, extended reading, culture, composition, and speaking skills. Successful completion prepares students for both a locally-developed Checkpoint B exam and for upper-level study.

Prerequisite: Department approval. Successful completion of this course and passing the Check-point B exam is required for Regents Diploma with Advanced Designation candidates. 

AP SPANISH:

1 Credit

The AP Spanish Language and Culture course emphasizes communication (understanding and being understood by others) by applying the interpersonal, interpretive, and presentational modes of communication in real-life situations. This includes vocabulary usage, language control, communication strategies, and cultural awareness. The AP Spanish Language and Culture course strives not to overemphasize grammatical accuracy at the expense of communication. To best facilitate the study of language and culture, the course is taught almost exclusively in Spanish.

The AP Spanish Language and Culture course engages students in an exploration of culture in both contemporary and historical contexts. The course develops students' awareness and appreciation of cultural products (e.g., tools, books, music, laws, conventions, institutions); practices (patterns of social interactions within a culture); and perspectives (values, attitudes, and assumptions).

Prerequisite: Completion of Spanish 3 and department approval

Performing Arts/Music Department

MUSIC 9:

1/2 Credit

Music 9 is a Choral course. Students will begin to learn proper vocal technique and music literacy. In addition, students will listen to and evaluate their own performances and the performances of other choirs. The repertoire of the 9th Grade Chorus will provide students with a variety of music from around the world and throughout music history. Students will learn teamwork, discipline, and professionalism through public and in-school performances.

MUSIC 10

1/2 Credit

Music 10 is a Choral course. Students will begin to learn proper vocal technique and music literacy. In addition, students will listen to and evaluate their own performances and the performances of other choirs. The repertoire of the 10th Grade Chorus will provide students with a variety of music from around the world and throughout music history. Students will learn teamwork, discipline, and professionalism through public and in-school performances.

11/12 CHORUS

1/2 Credit

Students will learn proper vocal technique and music literacy. In addition, students will listen to and evaluate their own performances and the performances of other choirs. The repertoire of the 11th/12th Grade Chorus will provide students with a variety of music from around the world and throughout music history. Students will learn teamwork, discipline, and professionalism through public and in-school performances.

INTRO TO KEYBOARD 7 GUITAR

1/2 Credit

This half-year elective is intended for students with little or no background in keyboard or guitar. The course is divided into equal sections for each instrument. Basic technique and musicianship skills will be taught including music reading, writing, and improvisation. Both group and individual instruction will be utilized.

ADVANCED KEYBOARD & GUITAR

1/2 Credit

This half-year elective is intended for students with intermediate to advanced skills on keyboard and guitar. The course is divided into equal sections for each instrument. Advanced technique and musicianship skills will be taught including music reading, writing, and improvisation. Both group and individual instruction will be utilized. Students taking this course should have completed the Intro class.

MUSIC THEORY

1/2 Credit; 11-12th Grade

The emphasis of this course is on the fundamental rudiments of music. Students will develop the skills necessary to read, write, and understand music and music notation. Logical progression from individual pitches through scales, chords, and simple composition is covered. No prior knowledge is required. This course integrates the study of harmony, aural skills (pitch and rhythmic dictation and sight-reading), and keyboard applications of music theory. This is an academic course and has no performance requirements outside of class.

ROCK & ROLL: POPULAR MUSIC IN AMERICA

1/2 Credit; 11-12th Grade

This half-year course will focus on the role and sounds of popular music from the 1920s through the present day. Students will learn to identify and apply the elements of music to popular music. Students will also learn about the social role of popular music. Students will listen to music extensively, watch performances, study lyrics, and explore the production and marketing of popular music. This is a non-performance class that is open to all students.

Business & Computer Science

BUSINESS:

ACCOUNTING:

1/2 Credit; Grades 11-12

Accounting is highly recommended for college-bound students considering accounting, business, or economics. This course is designed to introduce students to real-world concepts in today’s business environment. Accounting starts with the elementary principles of debits and credits and ends with the balance sheet and income statement.

BUSINESS LAW:

1/2 Credit; Grades 10-12

Business Law is an interesting and educational class that is encouraged as an elective for all students. In this course, students develop a respect for and understanding of business law and law enforcement as it affects the student’s personal, family, and occupational pursuits. An introduction to our legal system, court procedures, and the jury process will be presented. Students become aware of the need for legal assistance in a variety of day-to-day business transactions, so that they may avoid legal entanglements by having a working knowledge of their rights and obligations. Students who plan on majoring in business, economics, government, or history are encouraged to take this class.

COMPUTER SCIENCE

21st CENTURY COMPUTING:

1/2 Credit; Grade 9

This is a mandatory course that will provide an introduction to the computer, exploring the essential concepts and information about the computer. A practical knowledge of Windows and Google Chromebooks and apps is achieved. Students will also develop proficiency in using an integrated Office Suite package, which includes word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation software. Current issues such as social networking and Internet safety are explored.

COMPUTER SCIENCE

1/2 Credit; Grades 10-12

Introduces students who are interested in any computer or engineering field to the foundational concepts of computer science and challenges them to explore how computing and technology can impact the world.  With a unique focus on creative problem solving and real-world applications, Computer Science prepares students for college and career.  Students who pass this semester-long, Honors-level course will have the option of taking AP Computer Science Principles as an independent study class.

INTERNET WEB PAGE & DEVELOPMENT 

1/2 Credit

This course is designed to introduce students to the fundamentals of web site creation. Students will develop, manage, and maintain professional websites using HTML, XHTML and Cascading Style Sheets. The complete production process including pre-production planning, layout and design considerations (including site maps and navigation), testing, uploading and implementing the site, maintenance and applicable legal and ethical issues are covered. Professional web design software and production tools are used for graphics development, image manipulation, and page/site layout in the hands-on laboratory exercises.

Prerequisite: 21^st Century Computing and Digital Art

3D COMPUTER AUTOMATED DESIGN I

1/2 Credit

Using modeling software, students will build real-world objects in a three-dimensional environment.  Students will print some of their work on a 3D printer and create movies that illustrate their completed projects.  The skills gained in this course will help students prepare for possible careers in such fields as graphic design, game design, animation, simulation, and engineering.

3D COMPUTER AUTOMATED DESIGN II

1/2 Credit

Building upon 3D CAD I, students create and print more complex three-dimensional drawings.  Students also create more complicated movies that animate as well as illustrate their projects.

Prerequisite: 3D Computer Automated Design I

AP COMPUTER SCIENCE PRINCIPLES

1/2 Credit

This semester-long course is a continuation of Computer Science that will prepare the student for earning AP credit.  Students explore the impact of computing on social, economic, and cultural areas of our lives.  Students create computational artifacts through the design and development of programs.  The cost of the A.P. exam is approximately $90.

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Computer Science

AP COMPUTER SCIENCE

1 Credit

This course is a college-level course for students who are interested in computer science or engineering. It will continue object-oriented programming with an emphasis on Java. The course will also cover the case study recommended by the College Board. Students will be prepared for the Advanced Placement Exam. The cost of the A.P. exam is approximately $90.

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Computer Science

Mathematics Department

ALGEBRA I HONORS:

1 Credit

Designed for students of average to above average ability in mathematics, this course is the first step in the Math curriculum.  It will integrate topics from algebra and geometry such as elementary algebra, functions, basic concepts of statistics, and high school geometry (area, perimeter, volume, surface area, and polygons). Problem solving will be emphasized in all areas.  The Algebra I (Common Core) Regents exam will be given in June of the freshmen year.

Prerequisite: Department recommendation

ALGEBRA I:

1 Credit

This slower-paced course is designed for students who have shown in their mathematics background or achievement a need for extra attention.  It will integrate topics from algebra and geometry such as elementary algebra, functions, basic concepts of statistics, and high school geometry (area, perimeter, volume, surface area, and polygons). Problem solving will be emphasized in all areas.  The Algebra I (Common Core) Regents exam will be given in June of the freshmen year.  This course will include a lab component.

Prerequisite: Department recommendation

ALGEBRA 1 / LAB:

No Credit

The lab component is designed as an extension of the Algebra I course for students who have shown in their mathematics background or achievement a need for extra attention.  It focuses on enriching Algebra I concepts by designing lessons and activities to increase procedural fluency, problem solving skills, and comprehension of material likely to appear on the Algebra I (Common Core) Regents exam taken in June.

Prerequisite: Department recommendation

GEOMETRY HONORS:

1 Credit

This course is the second step in the mathematics curriculum. It is designed for those students who have successfully completed Algebra I Honors. This course will build on topics covered in Algebra I Honors and extend those topics to provide a more in-depth study of Euclidean and analytic geometry. The Geometry (Common Core) Regents exam will be given in June.

Prerequisite: Department recommendation

GEOMETRY:

1 Credit

This slower-paced formalizes what students have previously learned about geometry, with a focus on reasoning and making mathematical arguments.  It will include the study of Euclidean and analytic geometry, along with the geometry skills needed for standardized test questions. Students may (but are not required to) challenge the Geometry (Common Core) Regents exam in June.

Prerequisite: Department recommendation

ALGEBRA II HONORS:

1 Credit

Designed for students of average to above average ability in mathematics, this course builds upon Algebra I Honors and Geometry Honors courses.  Students will extend their understanding of the real number system to the complex number system.  The course material includes functions, trigonometry, probability, and statistics.  The Algebra II (Common Core) Regents exam will be given in June. SAT prep work is integrated into the curriculum.

Prerequisite: Department recommendation

ALGEBRA II:

1 Credit

This slower-paced course is designed for students to enhance the skills learned in Algebra I and Geometry. Students will extend their understanding of the real number system to the complex number system, as well as detailing functions, transformation geometry, trigonometry, probability, and statistics. Students may (but are not required to) challenge the Algebra II (Common Core) Regents exam in June.  SAT prep work is integrated into the curriculum.

Prerequisite: Department recommendation

MATH FOR LIFE:

1 Credit

This course is designed to help students develop math literacy by reading and speaking about math.  The curriculum is interactive, student-centered, and project-based, with a focus on math that will help them succeed outside of school.  This course includes an emphasis on mathematical skills needed for general math electives in college, as well as standardized testing and mathematical knowledge utilized in everyday living.

Prerequisite: Department recommendation

PRECALCULUS:

1 Credit

This course is designed for students with competence and skill in mathematics. It integrates advanced algebra, analytic geometry, and trigonometry as an in-depth study of that material which is basic to an understanding of calculus.

Prerequisite: Department recommendation

AP CALUCLUS:

1 Credit

Designed for advanced students, the course will study the differential and integral calculus of one real variable. Topics include differentiation and its applications and integration, techniques, and applications of the definite integral. Students will write the Advanced Placement Exam. The cost of the exam is approximately $90.

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Precalculus and department approval

AP STATISTICS

1 Credit

This course is equivalent to a one-semester, introductory, non-calculus based college course. An introductory statistics course is typically required for majors such as social sciences, health sciences, and business. Science, engineering, and mathematics majors usually take an upper-level calculus-based course in statistics, for which the AP Statistics course is an effective preparation. This course introduces students to major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. Students are exposed to four broad conceptual themes: exploring data, planning a study, anticipating patterns, and statistical inference. Students will write the Advanced Placement exam. The cost of the exam is approximately $90. This course may be taken concurrently with Precalculus or AP Calculus.

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra II Honors and department approval

Religious Studies Department

RELIGION 9:

1 Credit

This year-long course is an overview of the Catholic faith. It touches on the Church’s basic beliefs and practices. Topics include our faith’s understanding of God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, Sacred Scripture, prayer, liturgy, sacraments, and morality. A practical application of the Church’s beliefs is explored. This is done by helping students to continue to develop a healthy Christian life-style including issues of personal identity, development, self-image, communication, family, friendship, sexuality, work, money, leisure, and life vocations. Students are required to complete a total of 10 hours (five each semester) of community service.

OLD & NEW TESTAMENT:

1 Credit

Students will recognize the story of the people of Israel as the root of their own faith story. This course introduces the student to a survey of major themes from the Bible such as sin, covenant, and redemption.

This course also places an emphasis on the connection between Hebrew and Christian Scriptures. Catholic Christian tradition is rooted in an understanding of the message of Jesus found in the New Testament, particularly the Gospels. Students will discover who Jesus is and what He means in each person’s life. This program will foster a development of a personal, deeply relational experience of Jesus Christ. The history of the Church will be reflected on in the active and continuing presence of God.

MORALITY & SOCIAL JUSTICE:

1 Credit

This course will focus on the moral teachings of the Bible, conscience formation, processes used for moral decision making, and bioethics. Issues will be analyzed in the light of current debate and the teachings of the Church. Catholic and biblical teaching as a counter-cultural force is examined. Topics will include beginning of life issues such as fertilization, abortion, surrogacy, and cloning. End of life issues such as suicide, euthanasia, physician-assisted suicide, hospice, and living wills will be examined. Death and dying, as well as grief instruction, will also be presented. Morality in the business world and in technology will also be covered.

Students will understand the Church’s teaching on Social Justice issues, including their sources rooted in the Old and New Testament plus Papal and Episcopal documents. This first-semester course will call students to discern discrepancies, where they exist, between social realities and Gospel values, and to develop strategies to make Gospel values operative. The students will develop a foundation for a social justice consciousness and learn how the Church addresses current social justice issues of our time.

We will also will focus on specific justice issues including the ethics of life, racism, poverty, environmental concerns, and the challenge of peace. An appreciation for diversity through culture, tradition, and other world religions will be explored.

Electives

RETREAT PEER MINISTRY (RPM):

1/4 Credit; Grade 12

This course focuses on the formation of students in preparing and conducting retreats. This course is twofold in scope: (1) to introduce the student to various forms of spiritual and liturgical experiences; and (2) to develop leadership, organizational, and planning skills. This course will meet as part of the 12th grade religion course.