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2024-2025 Course Booklet for Sophomores
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Students must take four years of English. Placements are determined by the department.
Language, Literature and Writing II
This second-year foundation course focuses on issues of self-identity through a study of novel, drama, memoir, poetry and short story. Students do an intensive unit on writing the academic research paper, learning techniques of topic formation, note taking, outlining, as well as organizing and writing the paper. The focus is on primary sources. Documentation issues are thoroughly addressed. Students write for self-expression as well, using different genres. Grammar and vocabulary study are integrated into the curriculum as weekly features of instruction. Based on teacher and administrative input, students may be placed in sections that are specialized in order to address their needs for enrichment or remediation.
Enrollment in the AP European History course requires administrative approval. Four years of history is required.
Advanced Placement European History
The advanced placement program is designed to allow students the opportunity to pursue college level courses in high school. This course focuses on the areas of European history from the Renaissance through the Cold War. Students will read text material as well as original sources. Students will also refine their skills in the process of creating a full historical research paper. Teacher recommendations are required for entry into this course. Departmental and administrative approval is required.
European History
This is the second half of the two-year program in global history with an emphasis on European History. Students begin with the period of Enlightenment and the effect it had on the development of modern politics. They will explore how it influenced the French Revolution, sparking nationalist liberation movements throughout European nations and their colonial attachments. Next, they will examine how the Industrial Revolution had a tremendous effect on the way people within different parts of the World lived and interacted. Students will explore how such influences caused the age of imperialism eventually culminating in World War I and World War II. Students will witness the devastating, World altering effects of these conflicts resulting in a cold war between the superpowers. In addition, students will take a closer look into different areas of concentration, such as genocides and the struggle for the rights of the people. This course exposes students to a diverse array of primary source materials -- comparing these historical events to current issues to make these topics much more relatable. There are many interactive, experiential activities meant to promote thought while challenging the students to fully analyze historical incidents. Students will be better able to evaluate where they stand on issues that helped shape the World we live within today. Based on teacher and administrative input, students may be placed in sections that are specialized in order to address their needs for enrichment and/or remediation.
European History: Foundations
This is the second year of the two-year program in global history. Beginning in the period of the Enlightenment, students will consider not only important cultural developments but also the emergence of modern political thinking. They will study the impact of Enlightenment thinkers and the story of the French Revolution. They will cover the following topics in the twentieth century: the story of mass democracy, feminism, the two world wars and the cold war, and national independence movements/decolonization. In this skills-level class students will continue to develop vital skills in reading, writing, note taking, and critical thinking. Teachers will place a strong focus on skill development and use modified assessments and classroom material. The goal will be to use differentiated methods of teaching to reflect each student's needs.
Jewish History
Who is a Jew? What is a Jew? Why are there Jews? The Jewish History course will examine how these questions have been answered by Jews, non-Jews, rich, poor, powerful, powerless, scholars, and the unschooled from 1500 to the present. Students will learn how intellectual, economic and political shifts shaped the answers given to these questions, threatened the survival of Jewish communities, and opened new opportunities for Jews as well. Through a combination of readings, discussions, multimedia resources, and an in depth study of some of the Gedolei Yisroel and their works, students will gain a deep understanding of the trajectory of Jewish history.
All tenth graders are required to take math. Placements will be determined by the department. The following course descriptions follow the new sequence of mathematics instruction beginning in the ninth grade of the 2023-34 academic year.
Accelerated Algebra II with Trigonometry
Students enhance their algebraic skills and develop an understanding and mastery of trigonometric concepts. Students extend their study of real numbers, equations and inequalities, functions, systems of equations, polynomials, rational expressions, complex numbers, quadratic equations, transformations, second degree equations, polynomial functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, an in depth study of trigonometric functions, graphs, identities, and equations, probability, and statistics.
Algebra II with Trigonometry
This course is given to eleventh grade students who have completed geometry. Students enhance their algebraic skills and develop an understanding and mastery of trigonometric concepts. Students extend their study of real numbers, equations and inequalities, functions, systems of equations, polynomials, rational expressions, complex numbers, quadratic equations, transformations, second degree equations, polynomial functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, an in depth study of trigonometric functions, graphs, identities, and equations, probability, and statistics. Teacher recommendation and administrative approval are required.
Intermediate Algebra
Students enhance their algebraic skills and develop an understanding and mastery of a variety of topics in Algebra, Trigonometry and Pre-Calculus. Topics include polynomials, set theory, trigonometry, matrices and linear algebra, functions, conic sections and game theory. Students are encouraged to develop skills and work habits that will last throughout their academic and future careers.
Chemistry
The chemistry course presents a modern view of chemistry with major emphasis on physical concepts and understanding interactions of matter. The objectives of the chemistry course are to introduce tenth grade science students to the following topics: phase change and gas laws, thermodynamics, atomic structure, periodic properties, bonding and chemical reactions, chemical kinetics and equilibria, periodic properties, stoichiometry, acid-base interaction, redox electrochemistry, organic chemistry, and nuclear chemistry. The course is taught at a descriptive conceptual level using demonstration to convey concepts wherever possible. A sequence of formal laboratory activities reinforces each topic and chemistry students are expected to become proficient in safely executing a lab protocol and eventually designing one of their own to test a given hypothesis. Sections will be differentiated to enable students to achieve the curricular goals of the course.
Four years of Hebrew language and literature is a requirement. Students in the ninth grade are initially placed by ability level measured by personal interviews and formal placement tests. Once placed, students may advance according to the following standard sequence: Mechina (Preparatory) Level; Intermediate Level; Grade Level; Advanced Level.
A student may begin his or her Hebrew Language study in the beginner’s level and proceed to the intermediate level during the course of the ninth grade. In every grade there are class sections to accommodate the varying needs of each student. Students are placed in homogeneous classes with their peers at the precise level that will ensure they will be challenged to improve their language skills.
All tenth graders are required to take physical education.
Students are encouraged to meet their physical, emotional, and competitive needs through games, teams, and sports. Instruction will include units covering physical fitness, health, nutrition, flag football, volleyball, basketball, soccer, softball, and team handball.
The study of Tanach is central to the education of our students. Our Tanach curriculum is divided by semester: in the Fall, students study Chumash, and in the Spring, they study Navi/Ketuvim. As will be outlined further below, course offerings are not only sequenced by grade, but also differentiated by level in order to best meet the needs of each of our students.
10th Grade Chumash: Bemidbar
The book of Bemidbar is transformative. Our study begins in the 2nd year of the exodus and culminates in the 40th year, the generation of fathers and mothers who physically left Egypt pass on and a new generation is born free in the wilderness (Bemidbar). The sefer begins in a positive forward movement traveling through the desert, guided by clouds of glory and the pillar of fire. Yet the forward progressive thrust goes through much turbulence as the young nation begins complaining and expressing nostalgia to the slave life and a desire to regress. The inability of the generation to transcend the slave mentality reaches a peak in the unfortunate episode of the spies which brings the forward movement to a halt, condemning the generation to living its final days in the wilderness. A new generation born free with the emotional fortitude to move forward emerges by the end of the sefer. We will follow our ancestors' journey in the desert and see where it takes us.
10th Grade Navi: Yeshayahu
We will study an overview and selection of chapters from the Navi Yeshayahu, focusing on the prophet's message to the people of Yehudah during the Assyrian conquest of the kingdom of Israel. Yeshayahu stresses the importance not only of korbanot, but of justice, righteousness, and interpersonal morality. We will also learn about Chizkiyahu, the righteous king who fortifies Yerushalayim during the Assyrian siege through prayer and physical action, including the construction of the Chizkiyahu water tunnel. This sefer is the source of many famous haftarot, including both prophecies of destruction and beautiful messages of comfort and consolation.
Through the course of their study, our students develop a deep understanding and appreciation for Talmud study – its principles, methodologies, and law. Beyond developing their reading and comprehension skills, students develop training in analytical reasoning and logical argumentation, and learn how to navigate and debate complex legal and philosophical matters.
In order to create a vibrant, unified and collaborative community of Torah learning that cuts across classes and grades, the entire school learns the same masechet (tractate) of Talmud (although, of course, teaching is tailored to be grade-appropriate).
This year, we will be learning Masechet Sanhedrin, primarily the eighth chapter (פרק בן סורר ומורה). In the course of study, we will explore life and death dilemmas in halacha and the complex moral and legal issues that arise in such situations. Selected sugyot (talmudic topics) include:
בן סורר ומורה: the rebellious son
בא במחתרת: standing your ground
רודף: the right to self-defense
מצות הצלה: how much personal risk must one take to save another person
יהרג ואל יעבור: what ought a Jew die for?
קים ליה בדרבה מיניה: criminal punishment
Level Differentiation
To meet the personalized needs of each of our students, we offer four Talmud tracks per grade.
9th-11th Grade Hilchot Kashrut
This course provides a comprehensive exploration of the halachic principles and practical applications of Kashrut. Students will gain an understanding of the underlying halachic framework that governs Kashrut and how it relates to contemporary issues and challenges. Students will also explore “bigger questions” like how the laws of kashrut impact our religious lives and Jewish identity. Through close reading and analysis of primary texts, students will develop critical thinking and legal reasoning skills as well as practical tools they can use to navigate the complex world of Kashrut in their daily lives. By the end of the course, students will have gained a deep understanding of the principles of Kashrut and developed the skills to apply this knowledge to real-world situations, both inside and outside the kitchen.
10th-11th Grade Taamei Hamitzvot: Exploring the Meaning and Purpose of Mitzvot
In this course, students embark on a fascinating journey into the depths of Jewish law, focusing on the exploration of the meaning and purpose behind specific mitzvot. Through engaging discussions and thought-provoking analyses, students will develop a comprehensive understanding of a wide range of mitzvot found in the Torah. This course not only aims to provide knowledge but also instills a deep love and appreciation for the mitzvot, encouraging students to embrace a lifelong commitment to their observance.
Biblical texts and rabbinic commentaries will be consulted. Through textual and philosophical analysis, students will be introduced to the ancient Jewish conversations surrounding the underlying meanings, principles, and values embedded within the mitzvot. Interactive class discussions will encourage students to share their perspectives, ask questions, and critically analyze the purpose and significance of each mitzvah. Through reflection and dialogue, students will deepen their understanding and develop their own personal connections to the mitzvot.
Spanish II
All students who have successfully completed Spanish I are eligible to take this course which is designed to reflect the main thrust of foreign language instruction: communication. This is effectuated by the continued concentration on the four areas of Spanish language mastery: reading, writing, speaking and listening. The teaching of Spanish II is thematic: vocabulary is introduced in manageable amounts and in meaningful contexts. In addition, one of the foremost goals of students enrolled in this course is to be able to function effectively with the spoken language and to hone their listening comprehension skills. The students further develop their knowledge of the culture and civilization of the Spanish-speaking world.
French II
The students continue to develop the four basic language proficiencies in a communicative setting. Emphasis continues to be on the acquisition of an extensive active vocabulary that will enable them to communicate in a wide variety of real-life situations. Spanish language skills are enhanced by written application and reading and writing abilities are polished. Maximum communicative practice is afforded the student with additional concentration on listening skills. Spanish newspapers, short stories and films are presented to stimulate discussion and reading comprehension.
All courses in the computer science department are electives. Teacher recommendation and administrative approval are required.
AP Computer Science Principles
This course is equivalent to a semester-long, college-level course in computer science. The course continues to teach students about computer science focused around seven big ideas: creativity, abstraction, data & information, algorithms, programming, the Internet and global impact. The course will use MIT App Inventor and the Blockly programming language to teach students about programming concepts in the context of mobile application development. The AP Computer Science Principles course includes a performance based task where students creatively design their own unique programming app. Collaboration will also be a key component in the class. AP CSP is designed to be a prerequisite for AP CS A.
College Python Programming
College Python Programming is equivalent to a first-semester, college-level course in programming. The course introduces students to coding essentials including problem solving and program design, algorithms (sequence, selection/decisions, iteration/loops), data collection (lists, sets, dictionaries and scalar values), abstractions (procedures, functions), graphical user interfaces and user experience design. This is a project-based learning course where Python applications will be created and explored within a backdrop of traditional problems and more current computer science fields such as data visualization, machine learning, web scraping and integration with engineering projects. Collaboration will also be a key component in the class. Students may opt to earn college credit through LIU upon successful completion of this course.
All courses in the engineering department are electives. Teacher recommendation and administrative approval are required.
Bioengineering
This course is an innovative course for biology and tech minded students interested in studying and enhancing applications of living organisms. First, we will investigate how biological systems operate in order to solve problems involving differential diagnosis, prevention and treatment of disease. Second, we will discuss the history of how the Food and Drug Administration evaluates the fabrication of biomaterials, medical devices, and drug delivery systems. Throughout the school year, students will be required to individually formulate and present their analysis of a scientific journal article, a task which encourages them to think critically while learning how to conduct quality research. In addition, students will perform a series of mini-experiments to help further their understanding of biosensors and control systems. For the capstone project, students will collaborate with Israeli biotech companies on novel research projects, encouraging the development of effective leadership and communicative skills.
Studio Art I
This is the basic art course in which students will acquire knowledge that is intended to lead to a mastery of skills related to the Elements of Art and the Principles of Design. In this course students will maintain an active sketchbook and journal and learn how to use a variety of media and illustrative materials. They will gain a historical knowledge of art by studying facets of art history and exploring artistic reference. Current trends and inspiration of the art world will be included in their studies. Museum and Gallery trips are planned.
Fashion Design I
The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the world of fashion design. They will acquire knowledge and skills related to the principles of fashion illustration and design by utilizing a range of media and a variety of techniques to create versatility in their work. Students will learn the proportions of the fashion (croquis) figure. They will learn through the elements and principles of design as they pertain to fashion, design terminology for apparel and recognition of design styles are also included as components of the course. Students will be required to demonstrate creative use of inspiration and design experimentation through various projects and a design journal and will be assessed on their knowledge of terminology, styles and applicability of the elements and principles. Museum and fashion show trips are planned.
Architecture I
This is a course in which basic fundamentals of architecture are examined and perfected. While design will be the main emphasis for this level and the student should have a good background in basic mathematics. Students will learn about the design process and explore the architectural concepts of space, form, function, and technology. Students will learn how to create mechanical and freehand drawings, draw in 1, 2 and 3pt perspective, interpret and create floor plans, create orthographic and isometric drawings, understand drawing to scale and read blueprints, construct scale models, consult with groups on various approaches to design problems, address environmental concerns and conservation efforts, learn to render architectural styles, explore the history of architecture, reference the internet for architectural sources and create computer renderings using CAD. Trips to or visits by working architects are anticipated.
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