TABLE OF CONTENTS
MISSION STATEMENT
SCHOOL DAY
CLASS LOAD
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
ILLINOIS COLLEGE REQUIREMENTS
EXEMPTION FROM PHYSICAL EDUCATION
HONORS COURSES AND CREDITS
COLLEGE CREDIT COURSES
SCHEDULE CHANGES
FAILURES
WITHDRAWAL FROM A COURSE
DEPARTMENT / COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
RELIGION
ENGLISH
MATHEMATICS
SCIENCE
BUSINESS
SOCIAL STUDIES
FOREIGN LANGUAGE
MUSIC
ART
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
EARLY DISMISSAL (SENIORS ONLY)
Althoff is a diocesan Catholic high school serving students who primarily desire to pursue, in a Catholic environment, a strong academic program which will prepare them for post-secondary education. The school’s strength and its future lie in its Catholic heritage, the diverse backgrounds of its students and faculty, and its high academic standards. Through a process of faith formation, service to the community, and challenging educational experiences, faculty and staff strive to empower students not only with academic and technological skills, but also with skills for living. Members of the Althoff Catholic High School community share a deep and abiding respect for the individual and are committed to the spiritual, moral, physical, social and intellectual development of the person.
ALTHOFF CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL is recognized by the State of Illinois and accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Althoff admits students of any race, color, national, or ethnic origin.
The purpose of Althoff is to provide an atmosphere in which you can pursue a Christian education that will prepare you to find and fulfill your individual goals and ambitions after finishing high school. The educational program is designed to meet your spiritual, intellectual, cultural and physical needs. By a responsible use of your time and abilities at Althoff, you can prepare yourself for college, career, or job opportunities after graduation.
Since we cannot live in this world without recognizing our relationships to other persons, we cannot live in it without recognizing our relationship to God either. Our experience and relationship with God cannot be separated from our everyday lives. Therefore, all students attending Althoff are required to take Religion courses. Students who transfer from public schools are excused from the Religion requirement for the years they were attending other schools.
The school day is divided into seven class periods plus lunch. All classes meet every day.
Most students take seven subjects each semester. Students must have permission from a guidance counselor to waive P.E. for another class. Seniors are not required to take P.E.
224 credits are required for graduation. This includes 4 credits in Religion.
SPECIFIC COURSE REQUIREMENTS
|
Theology
|
4 Credits
|
|
English
|
4 Credits
|
|
Mathematics
|
3 Credits
|
|
Science
|
3 Credits
|
|
Social Studies
|
3 Credits
|
|
P.E./Health
|
2.5 Credits
|
|
Technology Skills
|
0.5 Credits
|
|
Information Processing
|
0.5 Credits
|
|
Art, Music, Foreign Language
or Vocational Education
|
2 Credits
|
The following high school subjects are recommended for students planning to continue their education at a university or community college.
RECOMMENDED ALTHOFF GRADUATION
4
years of English 4
years
3 years of Mathematics (Alg
1, Geom, Alg 2) 3 years
3 years of Science (laboratory
sciences) 3
years
3 years of Social Studies
3 years
2 years of Foreign Language,
Music, or Art 2 years
Admission requirements vary from one college to another. To determine the requirements for a specific college, check the Internet, check the College Handbook, or contact that particular school.
A student may be exempt from PE, if either of the following conditions is met:
Is participating in varsity interscholastic
athletics. The exemption is only for the duration of the sport season.
In these cases the student will receive a P for Pass on his/her report
card.
A student wishes to take seven academic courses and, therefore, lacks room
in his/her schedule for Physical Education.
117 *ENG1 Honors
English 1 - 1.0 350
*PHYS2 Physics 2 - 1.0
121 *ENG2 Honors English 2 - 1.0 429
*ACT2 Accounting 2 - 1.0
138 *CMP2 Honors Composition 2 - 0.5 500
*WHIS Honors World History – 1.0
141 *ADWT Honors Advanced Writing - 0.5 505
*AMPOL American Politics – 0.5
150 *INTLIT Introduction to Literature
- 0.5 504 *USH Honors
US History - 1.0
152 *INTSHST Introduction to the 518
*MUSH Modern US History – 0.5
the
Short Story - 0.5 519
*POR&PROF Portraits & Profiles
205 *ALG1 Honors Algebra 1 - 1.0
of
the Last Century – 0.5
207 *GEOM Honors Geometry 1 - 1.0 603
*LAT3 Latin 3 - 1.0
210 *ALG2 Honors Algebra 2 - 1.0 604
*LAT4 Latin 4 - 1.0
222 *TRIG Honors Trig.
- 0.5 613
*FRN3 French 3 - 1.0
224 *CALG Honors College Algebra
- 0.5 614 *FRN4 French
4 - 1.0
230 *PRCA Pre-Calculus - 1.0 630
*SPGR Spanish Grammar - 0.5
231 *CALC Calculus - 1.0 631
*SPCO Spanish Conversation - 0.5
321 *BIOL Honors Biology
- 1.0 632
*SPCV Spanish Civilization - 0.5
312 *CHEM Honors Chemistry - 1.0 633
*SPLT Spanish Literature - 0.5
315 *CHEM2 Chemistry 2 – 1.0
340 *AN Anatomy
& Physiology – 1.0 800
*ARTAPP Art Appreciation – 0.5
330 *PHYS Physics - 1.0
807
*AART Honors Advanced Art - 0.5 each
808
*AART Honors Advanced Art - 0.5 each
COLLEGE
CREDIT COURSES
ST. LOUIS UNIVERSITY 1-8-1-8
PROGRAM
| Honors Advanced Writing | 3 hrs | Honors Composition 2 | 3 hrs |
| Introduction to Literature | 3 hrs | Introduction to the Short Story | 3 hrs |
| Honors US History | 6 hrs | American Politics | 3 hrs |
REGULAR GPA: A=4
B=3 C=2 D=1
F=0
PE is calculated in the
cumulative GPA.
HONORS GPA: Regular GPA + (0.25 x N) / S
N
= number of weighted courses by semester
S = number of semesters at
time of ranking
0.25 = arbitrary value for
weighted course
Students who take Honors courses receive an extra 0.25 credit per course per semester for grades “C” or better. This is computed and averaged at the semester and students receive an Honors GPA as well as a Regular GPA.
HONORS COURSES ARE DENOTED WITH AN * IN THE TITLE AND ALSO WITH HC ABOVE THE
COURSE DESCRIPTION.
Please make course selections carefully since the master schedule and staff assignments are based on your schedule requests. Students are asked to PLAN and CHOOSE courses carefully according to their ability and motivation.
Before the end of the school year, students will receive a list of courses selected for the following year. Please review the list carefully and make changes as soon as possible. Tentative schedules are issued about one month before the start of each semester. At that time, a deadline for schedule changes will be published. Parent/Guardian approval is required for all course changes.
English 1, English 2, Mathematics, and Foreign Language (full year courses): First semester failures can be made up if the student passes the second semester. Second semester failures MUST be made up in summer school or by repeating the entire course.
All Sciences except Environmental Science. First semester failures can be made up if the student receives a "C" or better for the second semester. A second semester failure may be made up in summer school or by repeating the semester.
Failures in Environmental Science, Spanish
Literature, Spanish Conversation, Spanish Grammar, and Spanish Civilization
may be made up by repeating the semester course.
Failures in ALL other required courses MUST be made up in summer school or
by repeating the semester failed.
Students are strongly encouraged to complete all courses for which they register. A student may withdraw from a class two weeks after the beginning of the semester with no penalty if the student has the approval of his/her guidance counselor. A withdrawal before the end of the 1st or 3rd quarter will result in a “WF” or “WP” based on the grade at the time of withdrawal and this will be included on the student’s transcript. Withdrawing from a class during the 2nd or 4th quarter will result in an “F” being recorded in the student’s records. All withdrawal requests require Parent/Guardian permission.
*******
RELIGION DEPARTMENT
*******
The life of Jesus, as it is revealed to us in Sacred Scripture, exemplifies
the following actions for all believers:
to instruct people, to call
to reform,
to comfort, to capture the
heart and spirit of people,
to challenge and inspire to
greatness by love for one another.
101REL1 RELIGION 1 (Fr) Required All
Year 1
credit
Prerequisite: NONE.
The goal of the Freshman religion
course is to challenge the student to actively participate in the building
of a faith community. To do this, he/she is provided with the opportunity
to experience God's reverence for life as presented in Scripture. Also,
individual values and attitudes toward life including self-esteem, human growth
patterns and sexuality are explored.
In addition, the student experiences
the growth of a faith community and the need for faith in every person's life.
The exploration of the faith family tree includes studying Salvation
History of the Old Testament, identifying with the life of Jesus and understanding
His redemptive act.
Student Activities: Journals,
prayer experiences, note taking, and group discussions.
Student Evaluation: Quizzes,
tests, exams, and projects.
102RELS1 RELIGION 2 (Sophs) Required All
Year 1
credit
102RELS2
Prerequisite: NONE.
The Sophomore religion course
focuses on an examination of our personal values and beliefs and the importance
of the role these beliefs play in our everyday decisions.
The topics of Morality and
Sexuality are presented in the framework of both God's message that "all
creation is good and therefore has worth", and the teachings of the Catholic
Church. In lectures, discussions and class activities, the students
are faced with moral decision-making situations which they may encounter in
their own lives.
Each student is accepted at
his/her faith and maturity levels. As we continue to develop as a community,
we challenge each other to grow in respect and in love for all of creation.
Student Activities: Note
taking, journals, prayer experiences, and group discussions.
Student Evaluation: Reflection
papers, tests, exams, and projects.
103SOJUS SOCIAL JUSTICE (Jrs) Sem
1 .5
credit
Prerequisite: NONE.
The social justice course
will challenge students to recognize her/his role as a participant in both
the local and world communities. This is achieved by focusing on the
issues of social justice and having each student contemplate how these issues
exist in her/his life and community.
An emphasis will be placed
on the study of social justice through the eyes of faith. What are the
causes of injustices in the world and what are our Christian responsibilities
to eliminate these injustices?
Student Activities: Note
taking, prayer experiences, small group and large group discussions.
Student Evaluation: Tests,
exams, reflection papers, and/or research papers.
103CHHIS CHURCH HISTORY (Jrs) Sem
2 .5
credit
Prerequisite: NONE
Church History is a course
that will engage students in a sweeping study of the history of the Catholic
Church. The timeline begins with the story of the Apostles at Pentecost
following the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ and discovers Catholicism’s growth
and development to the present day. Along the way, we will take time
to learn about various saints and other notable figures central to the history
of the Catholic Church.
Student Activities: Presentations,
group discussions, prayer experiences, and some note taking.
Student Evaluation: Presentations,
reflection paper, tests, and exam.
104DEADY DEATH AND DYING
(Srs) Sem
1 .5
credit
Prerequisite: NONE
Why do people suffer? Why
do people die? How does any loss affect us? Is mourning healthy?
How? Why?
This course is designed to
view the reality of suffering, pain, loss, and death. The course will
incorporate our belief in the suffering and triumph of Jesus as well as Church
tradition, history, and doctrine regarding loss and death.
Some issues to be discussed
throughout the course will be the actuality of suffering and loss in the human
experience, stages of death, grieving processes, Christian response to death,
as well as Catholic and other world religions in relationship to their varied
beliefs, responses, and customs of death.
The course format will be
both objective and subjective, interspersing facts with shared experiences
and responses to the above issues.
Student Activities: Group
discussions, note taking, and projects.
Student Evaluation: Class
participation, tests, and exam.
104CHLIF CHRISTIAN
LIFESTYLES (Srs) Sem
2 .5
credit
Prerequisite: NONE.
We are called to be witnesses
to our faith every day of our lives. The majority of us answer this
call in marriage. Others choose the single life or the religious and
consecrated lifestyles of priests, nuns, and brothers. Each of these
vocations will be presented and discussed as options to live out our Christian
witness. In addition, as you mature from adolescence to young adulthood,
the developmental tasks you face in your search for a mature Christian identity
will be explored in relation to everyday choices.
Student Activities: Note
taking, journaling, prayer experiences, and projects.
Student Evaluation: Reflection
papers, tests, projects, and exam.
*******
ENGLISH DEPARTMENT
*******
THE COURSES MARKED "COLL" ARE RECOMMENDED FOR COLLEGE-BOUND STUDENTS, BUT STUDENTS WHO DO NOT PLAN TO GO TO COLLEGE ALSO MAY REGISTER FOR THESE COURSES. "COLL" SIMPLY INDICATES A HIGHER LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY IN THE COURSE MATERIAL, THE ASSIGNMENTS, AND THE TESTS.
STUDENTS CURRENTLY ENROLLED IN AN HONORS CLASS MAY CONTINUE IN THE HONORS PROGRAM IF THEY HAVE AN “A” OR “B” AVERAGE. IF THEIR AVERAGE IS A “C”, A WAIVER MUST BE SIGNED IN ORDER TO CONTINUE IN THE HONORS PROGRAM. IF THEIR AVERAGE IS A “D” OR “F”, THEY MUST DROP OUT OF THE HONORS PROGRAM.
IN ORDER FOR A STUDENT IN ENGLISH 1 OR 2
TO MOVE TO HONORS ENGLISH, A RECOMMENDATION FROM THE TEACHER IS NEEDED IN
ADDITION TO AN “A” AVERAGE FOR 2 SEMESTERS.
A ENGLISH 1 AND ENGLISH 2 CONSTITUTE A CORE PROGRAM AND NO ELECTIVES MAY BE
TAKEN UNTIL THESE COURSES ARE COMPLETED. THE POLICY ON FAILURES IN ENGLISH
1 AND ENGLISH 2 IS AS FOLLOWS: FIRST SEMESTER FAILURES ARE AUTOMATICALLY
MADE UP IF THE STUDENT PASSES THE SECOND SEMESTER. A SECOND SEMESTER
FAILURE MUST BE MADE UP IN SUMMER SCHOOL OR BY REPEATING THE SEMESTER.
DURING THE JUNIOR AND SENIOR YEARS, EACH STUDENT MUST TAKE ONE WRITING COURSE AND ONE LITERATURE COURSE EACH YEAR.
MOST ELECTIVES WILL BE OFFERED BOTH SEMESTERS
PENDING STUDENT REGISTRATION AND TEACHER AVAILABILITY.
STUDENTS IN HON COMP 2, HON ADV WRITING, INTRO TO LIT, AND INTRO TO THE SHORT
STORY HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO EARN COLLEGE CREDIT THROUGH THE 1-8-1-8 PROGRAM
SPONSORED BY ST. LOUIS UNIVERSITY. THESE STUDENTS EARN COLLEGE CREDIT
ONLY IF ALL FOUR COURSES ARE TAKEN IN SEQUENCE.
117*ENG1 HON ENGLISH 1 (Fr) HC All
Year 1
credit
Prerequisite: Recommendation.
This course is designed for
selected students capable of working at a faster pace. They should have
a working knowledge of the parts of speech and sentence structure.
Student Activities: Developing
writing skills for paragraphs, essays, and short stories. One short
topical paper will be required. A comprehensive study of the elements
of short stories, poetry, fiction and drama will take place through oral discussions
and written evaluation. Students will take part in one oral presentation.
Student Evaluation: Homework,
quizzes, tests, oral presentations and short papers.
118ENG1 ENGLISH 1 (Fr) All
Year 1
credit
Prerequisite: NONE.
This course will include a
review of language usage skills, develop writing skills, speech, and literature.
Student Activities: Review
of language usage, develop writing skills for paragraphs, essays and short
papers. Students will take part in oral presentations. They will
study the elements of poetry, fiction, short stories and drama.
Student Evaluation: Homework,
quizzes, tests, oral presentations and various written assignments.
119IENG1 INTERMEDIATE ENGLISH
1 (Fr) All Year
1 credit
Prerequisite: NONE.
This course will emphasize
grammar, literature, sentence building, usage, punctuation, vocabulary and
spelling. The course is designed to help students in both writing and
literature so they enter regular English their sophomore year with confidence.
Student Activities: Write
paragraphs, write essay answers, present poetry, and build vocabulary.
Student Evaluation: Quizzes,
tests, journals, and oral presentations.
121*ENS1 HON ENGLISH 2 (Sophs)
HC All
Year 1
credit
121*ENS2
Prerequisite: An "A"
or "B" in Hon English 1 or recommendation by a previous English
teacher.
This course is designed for
selected students capable of working at a faster pace and of covering more
material than in regular English 2. This course stresses oral and written
communication.
Student Activities: Journals,
descriptive paper, and various projects.
Student Evaluation: Quizzes,
tests, reports, projects, and oral presentations.
122ENGS1 ENGLISH 2 (Sophs) All
Year 1
credit
122ENGS2
Prerequisite: English
1.
This Sophomore English course
will provide a reinforcement and expansion of composition and language skills
by building on the foundation of English 1.
Student Activities: Most
of the first semester stresses style in writing. The remainder of the
year students will read, discuss and complete related written assignments
on the various units (short story, poetry, and drama).
Student Evaluation: Students
will be tested on the material studied.
133COMP1 COMPOSITION I (Jrs,
Srs) Sem
1 .5
credit
143COMP1 COMPOSITION I (Jrs, Srs) Sem
2 .5
credit
Prerequisite: English
2.
This course is intended to
sharpen students’ abilities to clearly express themselves in writing. Emphasis
will be placed on paragraph development, editing, and conventional composition
skills.
Student Activities: Essays,
composition activities, vocabulary, and a short research paper.
Student Evaluation: Essay
grades, tests, quizzes, oral presentations, and a short research paper.
137COMP2 COMPOSITION 2 (Jrs,
Srs) Sem
1 .5
credit
147COMP2 COMPOSITION 2 (Jrs, Srs) Sem
2 .5
credit
Prerequisite: A or B
in English 2 or teacher recommendation.
This course uses a structural
approach to the art of essay writing. The course includes the reference
skills and research techniques needed for writing the essay and for completing
the research project. The MLA style guide is used for research. This
course is a prerequisite for Advanced Writing.
Student Activities: Writing
assignments, essays, oral presentations, and research paper..
Student Evaluation: Essay
grades, research grades, quizzes and/or tests, and oral presentation grades.
138*CMP2 HON COMPOSITION 2 (Jrs) "Coll"
HC Sem
1 .5
credit
Prerequisite: An overall
GPA of 3.0, an "A" or "B" in Honors English 2 and a
signed recommendation by the Honors English 2 teacher if this course is to
be taken for 1-8-1-8 credit.
Student Activities: The
writing process is employed as the students cover the following categories
of written communication: description, narration, exposition, and persuasion.
The research project in this class is the historical narrative. Students
also read and discuss a variety of published authors’ works as each student
continues to develop his or her personal writing style.
Student Evaluation: Assessment
is based on assigned papers and worksheets, the binder/portfolio, class participation,
projects and presentations, a journal, and the semester exam.
ST. LOUIS UNIVERSITY 1-8-1-8 PROGRAM
A STUDENT MAY NOT WAIVER INTO THE 1-8-1-8 HONORS PROGRAM.
The student’s overall GPA must be 3.0.
Courses taken for 1-8-1-8 dual credit must be taken in the following order:
Honors
Composition 2
Introduction to Literature
Introduction to Short Story
Honors Advanced Writing
139ADWRT ADVANCED WRITING (Srs)
"Coll" Sem
1 .5
credit
149ADWRT ADVANCED WRITING (Srs) "Coll" Sem
2 .5
credit
Prerequisite: A minimum
of "C" in Composition 2.
This course will deal with
the following compositions during the first quarter of each semester: expository,
process, analysis, opinion, argumentative and persuasive papers, and narrative
writing. The purpose of this course is to teach students how to communicate
effectively through the medium of writing.
Student Activities: Students
will do a character sketch and an analysis of a prose or poetic selection.
Most of the second quarter of each semester will be spent on the library
research paper.
Student Evaluation: Journals,
composition grades, character sketch grade, analysis of prose/poetic selections
grade, and research paper grade.
141*ADWT HON ADV WRITING (Srs)
"Coll" HC Sem
2 .5
credit
Prerequisite: An overall
GPA of 3.0, an "A" or "B" in Honors Composition 2, and
a signed recommendation by the Honors Composition 2 teacher.
Student Activities: This
course will cover the following types of writing: research (process
and thesis-based paper, MLA format), creative, practical and technical, and
literary response/analysis. John Steinbeck’s novel The Grapes of Wrath,
is read, discussed, and used as a basis for literary response papers.
Student Evaluation: Assessment
is based on assigned papers, the binder portfolio, class participation, a
journal, quizzes on the novel, and a final exam.
146SPCM SPEECH COMMUNICATIONS (Srs)
Sem 2
.5 credit
Prerequisite: NONE
This course is designed to
help students develop the skills necessary to become an effective communicator.
Student Activities: Prepare,
practice and present a wide variety of speeches through text study and discussion
of topics such as interpersonal communication, listening techniques, use of
visual aids, storytelling, acting and dramatics.
Student Evaluation: All
speeches and performances will be critiqued by the instructor and peer evaluators
using rubrics developed through class analysis and discussion. Quizzes
will cover vocabulary and identification of various techniques from each chapter.
Some speeches will require research and written presentation in outline
form to insure logical sequence organization of ideas.
150*INTLIT INTRODUCTION TO LITERATURE
(Jrs) “Coll” HC Sem
2 .5
credit
Prerequisite: An overall
GPA of 3.0, an “A” or “B” in Honors Composition 2 taken for 1818 credit and
a written recommendation by the Honors English 2 teacher.
Student Activities: The
genres of poetry and drama are studied in this course. Readings represent
both American and English classical and contemporary writers, including William
Shakespeare. Students also read The Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer.
Critical thinking skills are emphasized.
Students Evaluation: Assessment
is based on quizzes, tests, written assignments, projects, class participation
and a final exam.
151AMLIT AMERICAN LITERATURE (Jrs,
Srs) Sem
1 .5
credit
161AMLIT AMERICAN LITERATURE (Jrs, Srs) Sem
2 .5
credit
Prerequisite: A “C”
in English 2.
This course is a study of
prose, poetry, drama, essays and sermons that cover six periods of American
Literature. In addition to the text, the students read one novel, The
Great Gatsby, and one drama, The Crucible. The emphasis in the course
will be comprehension and critical thinking.
Student Activities: Reading
and discussing assigned selections, participating in projects, and completing
written assignments.
Student Evaluation: Quizzes,
tests, writing assignments, and participation.
152*INTSHST INTRODUCTION TO SHORT STORY
(Srs) “Coll” HC Sem 1
.5 credit
Prerequisite: An overall
GPA of 3.0, an “A” or “B” in Introduction to Literature taken for 1818 credit
and a written recommendation by the Introduction to Literature teacher.
Student Activities: The
major elements of the short story genre are studied and applied to a variety
of short stories representing both American and English classical and contemporary
authors. The paperback The Complete Short Stories of Mark Twain is also
read during the semester. Critical thinking skills are emphasized.
Student Evaluation: Assessment
is based on written assignments, quizzes, tests, projects, class participation
and a final exam.
153ENLIT ENGLISH LITERATURE (Srs) Sem
1 .5
credit
163ENLIT ENGLISH LITERATURE (Srs) Sem
2 .5
credit
Prerequisite: A "C"
or above in American Literature.
This course is designed to
introduce students to the highlights of each historical period, the origin
and growth of the English language, the great poets, dramatists, and authors
of England. Included in this survey course are the works of literature
that every student should have the opportunity to read; i.e., works by Chaucer
and Shakespeare. Its purpose is to help students see that literature
can carry them beyond entertainment to new understandings, that it can enlarge
their understanding of life, and that it can open their minds to new ideas
and new dimensions of thought.
Student Activities: Read,
understand, and write about the works of major English
authors/poets.
Student Evaluation: Tests,
quizzes, and reports.
157MASH M.A.S.H (Jrs
& Srs) Sem
1 .5
credit
167MASH M.A.S.H (Jrs & Srs) Sem
2 .5
credit
Prerequisite: English
2.
In this course the basic elements
of plot, character, theme, setting, and point of view are strengthened as
the student studies and analyzes the novel and short story in Mystery, Adventure,
Science Fiction, and Horror (M.A.S.H.) From Arthur Conan Doyle and the
detection of Agatha Christie to the mind-boggling possibilities of the great
science fiction writers, the student uses these popular genres to strengthen
basic writing and analytical skills.
Student Activities: Read,
understand, develop reading, writing, and listening skills.
Student Evaluation: Written
reports, tests, quizzes, and oral presentations.
*******
MATHEMATICS DEPARTMENT
*******
Registration for Math Courses
Honors Courses
Students currently enrolled in an honors class may continue in the honors program if they have an "A" or "B" average. If their average is a "C", a waiver must be signed in order to continue in the honors program.
Students currently enrolled in a regular class may advance to the honors program if they are maintaining an "A" average in their current class, are hardworking, mature and are recommended by their current teacher. If a student has a "B" average, in order to take an Honors class, a waiver must be signed.
Students completing Honors Algebra I in eighth grade with an “A” or “B” will take Honors Geometry during their freshman year. Students who earned a “C” or less in eighth grade Honors Algebra I will retake Honors Algebra I during their freshman year.
Regular Classes
Students currently enrolled in a regular class may continue in the regular
program, if they have an "A", "B", or "C" average.
Students with a "D" average are recommended for basic classes.
They must sign a waiver to remain in a regular class.
Students in a basic class may advance to a regular class if they have an "A" average, possess good computational skills, are mature, hardworking and have the recommendation of their current teacher. If a student has less than an "A" average in a basic math class, a waiver must be signed in order to take a regular class.
Waivers
Waivers will be signed by both the student and their parents. Once a
waiver is signed, the student must either remain in the class or drop the
class until the following year. They may not drop down to an easier
class. Careful consideration should be given before signing a waiver.
Basic Classes
Students currently enrolled in a basic class may continue in the basic program
if they have an "A", "B", or "C" average. If
their average is below a "C" and they have fulfilled their Math
requirement, they should be encouraged to repeat their last Math class and
not move on in the Math program.
Taking Geometry and Algebra 2 concurrently
Sophomores who are enrolled in Honors Geometry may also enroll in Honors Algebra
2.
Juniors or Seniors may take Geometry and Algebra 2 concurrently.
Failures
Any student who fails the first semester but passes the second semester will
be considered to have passed the course and will receive one math credit.
The first semester "F" will be changed to "P".
Any student who passes the first semester, but fails the second semester will receive 1/2 credit in math. The student can then retake the course (auditing the first semester) and receive grades for the second semester in an attempt to get the other 1/2 credit. Summer school may also be an option.
ELEMENTS of ALGEBRA 1A AND 1B comprise a two-year program for those students who could profit from more time to learn the topics presented in Algebra 1. The two-year course gives two math credits for graduation, and is equivalent to one year of Algebra.
203ELAL1 ELEM ALGEBRA 1A (Fr) All
Year 1
credit
Prerequisite: 7th and
8th grade average of "D" or "C" in Math and Reading.
This course includes decimals,
natural numbers, integers, rationals, polynomials, solving simple equations,
functions and radicals.
Student Activities: Note
taking, homework, and class participation.
Student Evaluation: Homework
assignments, quizzes, tests, and exams.
204ELAL2 ELEM ALGEBRA 1B (Sophs) All
Year 1
credit
Prerequisite: Elem Algebra
1A
This course includes a review
of Elem Alg 1A stressing properties, number systems, fractions, decimals,
multiplying binomials, factoring and solving simple equations. The course
introduces operations with algebraic fractions, solving quadratic equations
and equations with two variables, graphing, slope and operations with radicals.
Student Activities: Note
taking, homework, and class participation.
Student Evaluation: Tests,
quizzes, assignments, and exams.
205*ALG1 HON ALGEBRA 1 (Fr) HC All
Year 1
credit
Prerequisite: 7th and
8th grade average of "A" or "B" in Math and Reading.
In addition to the material
in Algebra 1, this course will include the study of fractional equations,
radical equations, solving of more complex equations and algebraic proofs.
Student Activities: Note
taking, homework, and class participation.
Student Evaluation: Quizzes,
tests, and exams.
206ALG1 ALGEBRA 1 (Fr, Sophs) All
Year 1
credit
Prerequisite: 7th and
8th grade average of "C" or better in Math and Reading.
This course covers the real
number system, solving equations and inequalities, polynomials, factoring,
rational expressions, linear equations and systems, functions, rational and
irrational numbers and quadratic equations.
Student Activities: Note
taking, homework, and class participation.
Student Evaluation: Quizzes,
tests, and exams.
207*GEOM HON GEOMETRY (Fr, Sophs) HC All
Year 1
credit
Prerequisite: Completion
of Hon Alg 1 with an "A" or "B", or Alg 1 with an "A"
and recommendation by the Math teacher.
In addition to the material
covered in Geometry, this course will study Geometry with greater depth. Logic
is introduced and deductive thinking is emphasized through two-column proofs.
Algebraic skills are stressed in solving geometric problems. The course
includes an introduction to analytic geometry.
Student Activities: Note
taking, projects, homework, and class participation.
Student Evaluation: Tests,
quizzes, and exams.
208GEOS1 GEOMETRY (Sophs, Jrs,
Srs) All
Year 1 credit
208GEOS2
Prerequisite: Completion
of Elem Alg 1B with an "A" and recommendation by Math teacher or
completion of Alg 1 with a "C" or better.
Students will learn to: recognize
and understand concepts and terms from plane and solid geometry, apply postulates
and theorems in proofs and problems, write two-column proofs, use perimeter,
area and volume formulas, do simple constructions, and do basic trigonometry
involving right triangles. Algebraic skills will be used in solving
geometric problems
Student Activities: Note
taking, projects, homework, and class participation.
Student Evaluation: Homework,
quizzes, tests, and exams.
209BGEOM BASIC GEOMETRY (Sophs,
Jrs, Srs) All
Year 1
credit
Prerequisite: Elem Alg
1B or Alg 1
Learning will focus on geometrical
problem solving, construction, definitions, and basic properties of figures
including area and volume. Students will study various aspects of planes,
points, lines, angles, triangles, quadrilaterals, and other polygons, and
circles including terminology, basic properties, equality, measurement, theorems,
classifications, congruency, proportions, and related formulas.
Student Activities: Homework,
note taking, and class participation.
Student Evaluation: Tests,
homework, quizzes, and exams.
210*ALS1 HON ALGEBRA 2 (Sophs,
Jrs) HC All
Year 1
credit
210*ALS2
Prerequisite: Completion
of Geometry with an “A” and recommendation of Math teacher or Hon Geom with
an “A” or “B” and recommendation of Math teacher.
In addition to the material
covered in Algebra 2, this course will include conic sections, sequence and
series of numbers, linear programming and an introduction to probability.
Student Activities: Note
taking, homework, and class participation.
Student Evaluation: Quizzes,
tests, and exams.
211ALGS1 ALGEBRA 2 (Sophs, Jrs, Srs) All
Year 1
credit
211ALGS2
Prerequisite: Completion
of Geometry with an “A”, “B”, or “C” and recommendation of math teacher or
Basic Geometry with an “A” and recommendation of Math teacher.
This course will include all
the material in Basic Algebra 2 and exponential and logarithmic functions.
Student Activities: Note
taking, homework, and class participation.
Student Evaluation: Quizzes,
tests, and exams.
212BALG2 BASIC ALGEBRA 2 (Sophs,
Jrs, Srs) All
Year 1
credit
Prerequisite: Completion
of Basic Geometry with an “A”, “B”, or “C” and recommendation of Math
teacher.
This course will include the
study of the real number system, equations and inequalities, graphing, polynomials,
factoring, rational expressions, irrational numbers, complex numbers, quadratic
equations, synthetic division, binomial expansion, and graphing linear equations.
Student Activities: Note
taking, homework, and class participation.
Student Evaluation: Quizzes,
tests, and exams.
2I8IAL&TR INTERMEDIATE ALGEBRA AND TRIGONOMETRY
(Jrs, Srs) All Year 1 credit
Prerequisite: Completion
of Basic Algebra with an “A”, “B”, or “C” and completion of Algebra 2 with
a “C” or “D”, or the recommendation of the student’s current mathematics teacher.
Required: A scientific
calculator.
This course is designed to
further develop Algebraic skills before College Algebra. As well as
improving Algebraic skills, the course covers the Trigonometry topics listed
in 221 TRIGONOMETRY.
Student activities: Note
taking, tests, quizzes, projects and class participation.
Student evaluation: Quizzes,
tests, and exams.
221TRIG TRIGONOMETRY (Jrs, Srs) Sem
1 .5
credit
Prerequisite: Completion
of Algebra 2 with an “A”, “B”, or “C” and recommendation of Math teacher
or Basic Algebra 2 with an “A” and recommendation of Math teacher.
Required: A scientific
calculator.
This course will include the
definition of trig and circular functions, how to find both sides and angles
of right and oblique triangles, how to prove and simplify trig functions,
graphing the six trig functions, usage of the Laws of Sines and Cosines, and
half, double and composite angle formulas.
Student Activities: Note
taking, homework, and class participation.
Student Evaluation: Quizzes,
tests, and exams.
222*TRIG HON TRIGONOMETRY (Jrs, Srs)
HC Sem
1 .5
credit
Prerequisite: Completion
of Hon Alg 2 with an “A” or “B” and recommendation of Math teacher or Algebra
2 with an “A” and recommendation of teacher.
All material covered in Trigonometry
will be included in this course. Real world applications will be stressed.
Student Activities: Note
taking, homework, and class participation.
Student Evaluation: Quizzes,
tests, and exams.
223COLAL COLLEGE ALGEBRA (Jrs,
Srs) Sem
2 .5
credit
Prerequisite: Same prerequisites
as 221 Trig.
This course will provide the
essential concepts and skills of algebra and the study of functions that are
needed for further study in mathematics. Topics include: linear,
quadratic, exponential, logarithmic, rational functions; conic sections, matrices,
graphing, sequence and series and probability.
Student Activities: Note
taking, homework, and class participation.
Student Evaluation: Quizzes,
tests, and exams.
224*COAL HON COLLEGE ALGEBRA (Jrs, Srs) HC Sem
2 .5
credit
Prerequisites: Same
prerequisites as 222 *Trig.
This course will include all
the material in College Algebra but a special emphasis is given to the preparation
for the study of higher mathematics. Topics include: conic sections,
graphing, linear programming, functions and matrices.
Student Activities: Note
taking, homework, and class participation.
Student Evaluation: Tests,
quizzes, and exams.
230*PCAL PRE-CALCULUS (Srs) HC All
Year 1
credit
Prerequisite: Completion
of Trig and College Algebra and recommendation of Math teacher.
This course will include intense
function graphing, a quick trig review and a survey of beginning calculus.
The presentation of these topics develops an intuitive base and some
of the tools for the study of more advanced mathematics.
Student Activities: Note
taking, homework, and class participation.
Student Evaluation: Homework,
tests, quizzes, and exams.
231*CALC CALCULUS (Srs) HC All
Year 1
credit
Prerequisite: Completion
of Trig and College Algebra with an “A” or “B” and recommendation of Math
teacher.
In this course the students
will learn differential and integral calculus and its applications in business
and science. Topics such as domain and range, limits of functions, graphs,
exponential and logarithmic functions are also included.
Student Activities: Note
taking, homework, and class participation.
Student Evaluation: Quizzes,
tests and exams.
SCIENCE DEPARTMENT
*******
301ENVSCI-S1 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE (Fr) Sem
1 .5
credit
Prerequisite: NONE.
A diverse science course exploring
ecological and environmental sciences. Areas of study include tools
of science, earth, ecology, and populations of living things. This course
is designed to lay a good foundation for biology.
Student Activities: A
variety of laboratory activities, map reading, projects in model building
and problem solving.
Student Evaluation: Tests,
quizzes, written assignments, lab reports, and a semester exam.
301ENVSCI-S2 ENVIRONMETNAL SCIENCE
(Fr) Sem
2 .5 credit
Prerequisite: NONE.
A diverse science course exploring
chemistry, energy and environmental health. Areas of study include water,
air, minerals and energy, waste and environmental health. This course
is designed to lay a good foundation for biology and future science courses.
Student Activities: a
variety of laboratory activities, map reading, projects in model building
and problem solving.
Student Evaluation: Test,
quizzes, written assignments, lab reports, and a semester exam.
309APSCIS1 APPLIED SCIENCE (Soph,
Jrs) All
Year 1
credit
309APSCIS2
Prerequisite: Completion
of Environmental Science and consent of instructor or science department chair.
This course uses problem-based
investigations. The topics span numerous disciplines of science including
chemistry, physics and biology. The topics for the year are dependent
upon the instructor but could include The Rivers Project, Simple Machines,
Forensics Chemistry, the how and why of modern technology marvels.
Student Activities: Students
will work in groups and use a hands-on approach that will emphasize skill
building.
Student Evaluation: Grade
is determined by student performance, written assignments, reports, labs,
activities, and the semester exams.
310CCMS1 CHEM COM (Jrs, Srs) All
Year 1
credit
310CCMS2
Prerequisite: Completion
of Algebra 1. No other additional chemistry course may be taken.
This course is structured
around creating a need to know via a science-technology-society problem or
issue, then applying the chemical concepts that help resolve the issue. Topics
include water properties, chemical reactivity, petroleum and an environmental
application of chemistry.
Student Activities: Students
will perform and report on lab experiments, view demonstrations and relate
information to the environment.
Student Evaluation: Grade
is determined by tests, quizzes, lab reports, homework assignments, classroom
activities, and the semester exams.
311CHES1 CHEMISTRY (Jrs, Srs) All
Year 1
credit
311CHES2
Prerequisite: Completion
of Geometry and Biology with a "C" or better and enrolled in Algebra
2.
This course consists of a
blend of traditional chemistry and modern concepts. Theory, as well
as practical applications, is stressed. Content includes energy, matter,
atomic structure, the periodic table, chemical formulas and bonding, stoichiometry,
and the gas laws. A good background in mathematics is essential to success
in the course due to the large amount of problem solving, both in class and
in the laboratory.
Student Activities: Students
will perform and report on lab experiments, view demonstrations, apply mathematical
concepts, balance chemical reactions and develop problem solving skills.
Student Evaluation: Grade
is determined by tests, quizzes, lab reports, homework assignments, activities,
and the semester exams.
312*CHS1 HON CHEMISTRY (Sophs, Jrs) HC All
Year 1
credit
312*CHS2
Prerequisite: Completion
of Hon Biology and Hon Geometry with an "A" or “B” and enrolled
in Hon Algebra 2 or recommendation of the math department.
Honors Chemistry core content
is the same as Chemistry with more complex concepts included in the course
(Ex: freezing point depression). Students will investigate an
additional topic, some as independent study.
Student Activities: Students
will perform and report on laboratory experiments, view demonstrations, apply
mathematical concepts, balance chemical reactions and develop problem solving
skills. Furthermore, students will be required to do independent work
on additional topics using CBL’s (calculator based laboratory system).
Student Evaluation: Grade
is determined by tests, quizzes, lab reports, homework assignments, activities,
and the semester exams.
315*CHEM2S1 CHEMISTRY II (Jrs,
Srs) HC All
Year 1 credit
315*CHEM2S2
Prerequisite: Completion
of Hon Chemistry and Hon Algebra 2 with an “A” or “B”, or Chemistry with an
“A” or consent of Chemistry instructor.
This course is intended for
students planning a very science-oriented college major, such as medicine,
chemistry or biotechnology. Content can include such topics as oxidation-reduction
reactions, thermo chemistry, biochemistry, equilibrium, and electrochemistry.
Student Activities: Students
will perform laboratory experiments, write laboratory reports and work science-related
mathematical problems.
Student Evaluation: Grade
is based on tests, quizzes, laboratory reports, and the semester exams.
319SCLAB SCIENCE LAB ASSISTANT Sem
1 .25
credit
320SCLAB SCIENCE LAB ASSISTANT Sem
2 .25
credit
Elective for any student interested
in science who has a study hall period available.
Student Activities: Set
up and take down laboratory equipment; assist teacher in testing and maintenance
of the lab and its equipment. One student may be selected by each teacher
based on compatible schedules.
Student Evaluation: Grade
is based on student performance or responsibilities.
320BIOS1 BIOLOGY (Sophs) All
Year 1
credit
320BIOS2
Prerequisite: Completion
of both semesters of Environmental Science with a passing grade.
Students will examine the
world of biology, and cover a wide range of concepts, including evolution,
genetic continuity, biodiversity, regulatory processes, ecosystems, biological
history, and the scientific method. Students will also examine how biology
affects their everyday lives. Study will include both classroom and
laboratory work. In the lab, students will have an opportunity to investigate
biological concepts and principles, as well as learn basic lab skills and
techniques.
Student Activities: Students
will be required to complete assignments other than those listed above. Past
projects have included caring and feeding of animal specimens, population
sampling, field studies, research papers and maintaining a binder of all course
material.
Student Evaluation: Based
on a combination of quizzes, tests, homework assignments, binder contents,
laboratory reports, and the semester exams. Other course requirements
may be added as necessary.
NOTE: Students may be
required to study preserved animal specimens.
321*BIOLS1 HON BIOLOGY (Fr, Sophs)
HC All Year 1
credit
321*BIOLS2
Prerequisite: Freshmen
must be enrolled in Hon Geometry and have high placement test scores. Sophomores
must be enrolled in Hon Geometry or Hon Algebra 2 and must have an “A” or
consent of Integrated Science instructor.
Course work is the same as
for Biology, but at an honors level so biological concepts and principles
will be studied in more detail. The students will conduct several experiments
and complete one formal laboratory report each quarter.
Student Activities: Past
activities have included care of animal specimens, a fruit fly experiment
in genetics, population studies using yeast, debates on bioethical issues,
and field studies of nearby ecosystems.
Student Evaluation: Based
on a combination of quizzes, tests, homework assignments, lab work,
lab reports and the semester exams.
NOTE: Students may be
required to study preserved animal specimens.
322BIOL2S1 BIOLOGY II - Environment
(Jr, Sr) Sem
1 .5
credit
324BIOL2S2 Sem
2 .5
credit
Prerequisite: Completion
of Biology or Honors Biology AND ChemCom, Chemistry or Honors Chemistry with
a passing grade.
Biology II delves deeper into
some of the biological concepts introduced in the first year biology course.
This semester course focuses on an assessment of a river ecosystem,
emphasizing data collection, analysis, and presentation.
Student Activities: Students
will design and implement experimental research projects. A comprehensive
field study will be conducted.
Student Evaluation: Grades
will be comprised of quizzes, tests, homework, research project reports, lab
work, and the semester exam.
NOTE: The administration
reserves the right to arrange the order of 322BIOLS1 and 322BIOLS2 due to
scheduling needs.
323BIOL2S1 BIOLOGY II – Biotechnology
(Jr, Sr) Sem
1 .5 credit
325BIOL2S2 Sem
2 .5
credit
Prerequisite: Completion
of Biology or Honors Biology AND ChemCom, Chemistry or Honors Chemistry with
a passing grade.
Biology II delves deeper into
some of the biological concepts introduced in the first year biology course.
This semester explores diversity, DNA, and the revolutionary realm of
Biotechnology.
Student Activities: Students
will design and implement experimental research projects using DNA. The
tools of the Biotechnology trade—plasmids, electrophoresis chambers, and PCR
machines—will be on loan from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville.
Student Evaluation: Grades
will be comprised of quizzes, tests, homework, research project reports, lab
work, and the semester exam.
NOTE: The administration
reserves the right to arrange the order of 322BIOLS1 and 322BIOLS2 due to
scheduling needs.
330*PHYSS1 PHYSICS (Jr, Sr) HC All
Year 1
credit
330*PHYSS2
Prerequisite: Completion
of Hon Chemistry and Hon Algebra 2 with an “A” or “B”, or
Chemistry with an “A” or consent of Chemistry instructor and enrollment in,
or completion of Hon Trig, with an “A” or “B”.
The course is designed for
students planning further study in math or the sciences. It relies heavily
on mathematics and combines theory with practical application. Topics
to be covered include machines, friction, forces, gravity and equilibrium.
Student Activities: Students
perform laboratory experiments including use of CBL’s (calculator based laboratory
system), laboratory reports, and science-related math problems.
Student Evaluation: Laboratory
reports, homework problems, tests, other activities, and the semester exams.
340*ANS1 ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY (Jrs,
Srs) HC All
Year 1
credit
340*ANS2
Prerequisite: Completion
of Hon Chem with an “A” or “B” or Chem with an “A” or consent of Chemistry
instructor.
This honors course begins
with the study of human biochemistry, cellular and tissue structure/function.
Students will then begin an in-depth examination of the anatomical structures
and physiological processes of the major body systems. Study will include
both classroom lecture as well as laboratory work.
Student Activities: Review
of current literature, construction of models, cat dissection, and experiments
in physiology.
Student Evaluation: Based
on a combination of quizzes, tests, homework assignments, lab reports, lab
quizzes (both written and practical), the report on scientific investigation,
and the semester exams.
NOTE: Students will
be required to study preserved animal specimens.
350*PHYS2S1 PHYSICS II (Srs) HC All
Year 1
credit
350*PHYS2S2
Prerequisite: Completion
of Physics with an “A” or "B" and enrollment in Calculus.
This course is intended for
seniors planning a very science-oriented college major, such as engineering
or medicine. Content includes sound, light, optics, electricity, magnetism
and other topics.
Student Activities: Laboratory
work is used to reinforce concepts and to continue to develop scientific reasoning
skills. Work can include CBL’s (calculator based laboratory system).
Student Evaluation: Grade
is determined by tests, quizzes, lab reports, and the semester exams.