DIPLOMA COURSE OFFERINGS:
Fall 2008 Tentative Course Offerings
Science
Chemistry w/Lab
This program will cover topics commonly covered in high school chemistry. Class experiences are supplemented with demonstrations, and every opportunity to connect the topic to real life is extended. The course is mathematics based, meaning simple arithmetic skills are all that are needed; knowledge of algebra 1 is required. The course covers may different topics, rather than focusing on a few, allowing students the opportunity to acquire a broad range of knowledge versus a deep understanding of any one topic. Topics covered include atomic structure, phases of matter, stoichiometry, and acids and bases.
Biology w/Lab
Students study ecology, cell structure, cellular biochemistry, DNA, genetics, energy pathways in plants and animals, and evolution. They explore these topics in laboratory activities and projects.
Physical Science
Students learn the fundamental physical science concepts they need to know in order to become scientifically literate adults. Students study the basics of Newtonian physics and chemistry. They take part in laboratory activities and hands-on experiences to develop scientific thinking process skills and attitudes that help them to become responsibly aware citizens.
Humanities
Psychology
Students explore individual human behavior. They analyze the nature of intelligence, learning styles, personality theories, psychological testing and stress management. Leaning activities include class discussion, films, small group research projects, experiments, readings and lectures. Since many current careers require the knowledge Psychology offers, students have the opportunity to gain valuable information useful in both college and employment.
Anthropology
Have you ever wondered why we do the things we do? Dress the way we dress? Express ourselves in art and music the we do? Have you ever wondered how technology impacts our society and other cultures? What can we learn from the past that will give us insights into the future? Discover the answers to these and many other questions about our culture and other cultures around the world. Examine marriage practices, courtship customs, dress and body decoration, human inventiveness, verbal and non-verbal communication and family groups. If you are interested in human beings, specifically in uncovering their past and applying that information to our modern world, Anthropology is for you. Learn through activities, discussions, films, independent research and project-based activities.
Pop Culture
The course will examine the connections that exist between popular culture and the events that shape it. There will be extensive coverage of modern history, arts, and literature.
Street Law
“Street Law” is designed to provide you with a basic understanding of your legal rights and responsibilities, knowledge of everyday legal problems, and the ability to analyze, evaluate, and, in some situations, resolve legal disputes. We will also learn general information about the structure, function, and actual operation of the legal system.
Basic economic concepts such as supply and demand, inflation, taxation, capitalism and the principles of a market economy will be taught. The course will concentrate on America’s free enterprise system.
American history is not only the story of famous heroes but also that of ordinary people. Since the country began, they have plowed the fields, built the cities, raised the families, fought the wars, and done all the everyday things that add up to a country’s history. We will be studying these stories because they are our stories, too.
World Literature
Although we live in a diverse and ever-changing world, people throughout the globe have many of the same concerns, hopes, and experiences. By reading and reflecting upon short stories, poems, and narratives from a variety of locations you will gain a better understanding of the human experience and possibly a better understanding of yourself. This course will continue to develop your reading, writing, speaking, listening, and critical viewing skills. Newspapers will also be read and discussed to improve knowledge of current world events.
Social Justice
This course aims to examine the issues that societies struggle with and allow students the opportunity to consider the most just and equitable solutions in terms of alleviating those issues. The course is both project based and writing intensive.
Topics of discussion and study include but are not limited to:
Poverty and Socioeconomics
Racism
Sexism
Hate Crimes
Genocide
Discrimination
Human Rights
Community Building
A Literary Look at
Great American Films
This English elective
will focus on studying some of the great films in the American Cinema. Films to
be studied may include: Modern Times, Citizen Kane, Casablanca, Rebel
without a Cause, Dr. Strangelove, The Graduate, American Graffiti, Star Wars,
and Taxi Driver. Mr. Heinhold is a member of the English department at Nashua
High School.
Children's Literature
In this course you will improve your critical reading and writing skills by studying Children's Literature. The class will read selected Children's Literature from a variety of genres (poetry, fairytales, fiction etc). Through discussion and writing, students will explore a variety of topics including common themes in Children's Lit., definitions of "great" literature, and how to select age appropriate literature. As a final project, students will create their own piece of Children's Literature or research/review a Children's author of their choice.
Language Skills 1
Language Skills focuses on the writing process, vocabulary development, language terminology and literacy skills. Students have the opportunity to develop and refine study skills, time management and the organization skills needed for success at the college level.
Creative Writing
The purpose of this course is to develop creative writing skills through a variety of writings, readings, class activities and workshop experiences. The course is designed for writers of all levels—those who are interested in starting to write creatively to those who do so regularly. The course also fulfills a high school English Credit. In class activities will focus on specific elements found in short stories, memoirs and children’s literature such as character development, conflict, descriptive writing, and strong beginnings and endings. Students will read short exerts by professional writers such as Steven King, Betsy Byars, and Ray Bradbury and reflect on what these individuals say about writing and how it relates to their individual practice. Finally, students will be given time in class to write and revise their work regularly.
Mathematics
Pre Algebra
This course advances the student from eighth-grade mathematics to pre-algebra. After reviewing basic operations, students learn about numbers and their properties, mathematical modeling that requires equation writing and solving in context, data analysis and statistics, geometry, functions, and graphs. This is an active interactive class, with group learning lab activities and hands-on manipulative and technology.
Algebra 1
The study of algebra begins with the study of real number system, slopes and their application in linear systems and inequalities and the representations of functions in tables, graphs, and equations, factoring, operations with polynomials and exploration of quadratic functions. Students learn how to apply algebraic techniques to real situations.
Algebra 2
Students use functions to solve real-work problems. They also learn to recognize, write, solve, and graph linear, quadratic and other functions, and use models to predict results. Students explore direct and inverse variations, systems of equations, arithmetic and geometric sequences, exponential expressions, composition of functions, polynomial expressions, and matrices.
Prerequisite: Algebra 1. Geometry is recommended.
Geometry
Students discover mathematics as a deductive science by studying plane and solid geometry. They learn the relations of equality and inequality, triangle relationships, perpendicular and parallel lines, quadrilaterals, congruency and similarity, constructions with compass and straight edge, ratio and proportion, areas, arcs, and line segments related to circles and spheres, and loci.
Consumer Math
Students learn mathematical skills useful all through life; as workers and consumers, maintaining bank accounts, credit installment buying, taxes, insurance, investments, and home and automobile finances. A scientific (not graphics) calculator is recommended.
Business
Business Communications
Designed to improve communication skills that help learners succeed in today’s business world, the primary focus of this course is to improve skills in reading, writing, listening, oral presentation and interpersonal relations. You will need to have basic keyboarding skills since this course is computer-based.
Desktop Publishing
Covers the principles of design while building upon Microsoft Office skills to create newsletters, brochures, fliers, business cards, logos, promotional documents, advertisements, and web pages. Students will use Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, and Publisher) and Adobe Photoshop CS, as well as digital camera and scanner, to design and develop projects throughout the semester
Computer Science
Integrated Computer Applications
Students will acquire and master intermediate and advanced computer skills neeeded for college or work. Students will use the Microsoft Office 2007 to expand word processing, spreadsheets, communications and integration skills. Projects are taken from real life applications of Microsoft Office and will allow students to apply your knowledge with thee context it is intended.
Art
Pottery
Develops the knowledge, skills and techniques necessary for working with clay. Students study all methods of handling clay such as pinch, slab, coil, and wheel work. Students also learn glazing and firing techniques. The forms created in this course are functional, aesthetic and relate to the history of ceramic art.
Art History
Traces the development of art chronologically from pre-historic to contemporary art, including academic and "hands-on" projects, to learn the history of art. This approach uses a variety of materials, including texts, slides, videos, and actual art reproductions to support instruction. Students develop a greater awareness and appreciation of art and gain an ability to discuss and critically evaluate works of art.
World Languages
Spanish I
Grab your backpacks! We're off to explore the Spanish-speaking worlds. Soon you'll begin to understand another language, new people, and a different culture. Find out how to introduce yourself, tell a bit about yourself, ask questions, and make your needs and wishes known.
Spanish for the Spanish Speaker
This course is intended to be the entry-level selection for individuals who have a home background or extensive outside experience in Spanish. It will address common errors of native speakers in fours skill areas: listening, speaking, reading and writing. Students will learn to use standard Spanish in the workplace and other real-world settings.
English Language Learners
ELL intermediate
Engages the English language learner further through a wide range of academic language and thematic units focusing on social studies, science and math themes as well as authentic literature. Students expand knowledge of the English language and equip themselves with the with the necessary tools to succeed in the mainstream classroom by developing higher level reading and writing skills.