Wayne Central High School

Art allows students to build on their experiences and talents based on the CORE class, Studio Art.

If a student meets the following expectations they will be successful.  Desire and ambition account for more success than talent.

• Good attendance 
• Class participation
• Desire to create and improve skills
• Completing assigned homework
• Developing drawings in a sketchbook
• Learning processes and procedures related to a specific elective
• Developing a portfolio of work through the course of study
• Retention of knowledge to pass tests and final exam

STUDIO ART IS A PREREQUISITE FOR ALL FULL-YEAR ART CLASSES with the exception of IB Visual Art.

STUDIO ART – Full Year, 1 Credit, Grades 9-12

PHOTOGRAPHY – Full Year, 1 Credit, Prerequisite: Studio Art, Grades 10-12

Students will discover and experience the basics and intermediate processes of traditional 35mm black and white photography: to know, to understand, to apply.  Students will also experience the basics and intermediate processes of digital color photography. These are the major goals in dealing with all the necessary components in producing quality, creative photographic images.  Students will also explore the history of photography and view the work of famous photographers.  Photoshop, Darkroom procedures, multi-image exposure, quality printing, and additional creative printing processes are introduced.  

DRAWING AND PAINTING I – Full Year, 1 Credit, Prerequisite: Studio Art, Grades 10-12

DRAWING AND PAINTING II 

This course stresses experiencing and experimenting with new media, pursuing artistic areas of interest, creating quality works of art, and building an excellent portfolio.  In addition, students will examine different periods in art history.  Grades are based on:  class projects, class participation, sketchbook assignments, building a quality portfolio, mid-term and final exams/projects, and final portfolio review. Prerequisite: Drawing and Painting I

GRAPHIC DESIGN 1

Use Microsoft Publisher, In Design and Adobe Photoshop to design and create applicable advertisements and promotions. Explore a variety of ways to alter pictures using the many tools accessible in Adobe Photoshop. Computers all the way – design your own brochures, calendars, flyers, magazine or CD covers, etc.

GRAPHIC DESIGN 2

Continuing in the advertising design arena, this class will build on techniques learned in Graphic Design and will be using advanced tools in Photoshop and In-Design to create programs, promotions, and announcements and more! Students will also learn how to create an effective website that is exciting, organized and informative which is another key component of advertising a business. Sorry we do not use coding.

IB VISUAL ARTS 1&2

IB Visual Arts is a two year course in which students will critically examine and participate in all facets of the art making process through written formal analysis of artworks, research on the cultural significance of art and emulating the techniques of other artists to expand your skills. This work and research will be documented in an investigation journal whose pages will be used as part of the IB course assessment at the end of the second year of the course. Students should expect to put in several hours of time outside of class per week working on your projects and your investigation journal.

CRAFTS (Offered 2025-2026 School Year)

Are you crafty? Do you like to make things? In this class students experiment with a wide range of materials which can include batik, weaving, pottery, printmaking, beading and so much more to make beautiful and often functional pieces of art.

 SCULPTURE  (Offered 2026-2027)

Do you like to build and make 3D things? In this class students create 3D sculptures from a variety of media which could include clay, wire, plaster, cardboard, paper, styrofoam and just about any material imaginable to express their ideas.

FASHION DESIGN AND ILLUSTRATION (Offered 2026-2027)

Do you like to design clothes? Want to learn how to sew? This class will teach you how to use a sewing machine, making and using a pattern, some basic garment making techniques and a little about the history of costume and fashion. You will be able to walk out of this class wearing something you have made.

CERAMICS 1 

Ceramic students will develop hand-building techniques in different types of clay. Sculptural forms and the merging of techniques will be allowed as well as traditional pot building. Additional emphasis will be placed on finishing techniques and methods of glazing, resulting in portfolio-quality work. Examining ceramic works by a variety of cultures and artists helps to develop each student’s artistic style.

CERAMICS 2 

Students will expand on the hand building techniques learned in Ceramics 1 to express their ideas in a 3D form. Students will experiment with advanced construction and finishing techniques. Students will examine works from a variety of cultures and artists to develop their unique artistic style.

ART FOR LIFE 

Students who enjoy the visual arts and the creative process, but don’t necessarily see themselves as serious art students, will enjoy the hands-on and creative problem solving methods of Art for Life. Serious art students will also find Art for Life to be engaging and enriching.

 

 

IB COURSES

Wayne Central High School is an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School. Students have the opportunity to begin study in a rigorous diploma program recognized in over 90 countries around the world. The IB diploma program challenges students with high academic standards and encourages them to become critical and compassionate thinkers, lifelong learners, and informed participants in local and world affairs. Based on international education standards, the IB program is considered to be the best preparation in the world for post-secondary studies. 

 

GROUP 1:  STUDIES IN LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE

IB LANGUAGE and LITERATURE (HL) 1 & 2 

The two year IB English Language and Literature course focuses on developing an understanding of the constructed nature of meanings generated by language and the web of relationships they share with the social world. Two parts of the course relate to the study of language and the study of literature. A key aim of this course is to encourage students to question the meaning generated by language and texts. The course helps students focus closely on the language of the texts they study and to become aware of the role of each text's wider context in shaping its meaning. Practically, this means students will develop an appreciation of the impact of the context (cultural and social) of both writer and reader on textual construction and interpretation. The appreciation of literary techniques as used in the various genres of literature forms an important aspect of this study as well. Through oral and written commentary as well as comparative textual analysis, students will develop an understanding of how language, culture and context determine the ways in which meaning is constructed as well as think critically about the different interactions between text, audience and purpose.

IB English Language and Literature requires a variety of internal and external written and oral assessments which will begin in the junior year and conclude during the senior year. Students will complete summer work for both courses and should anticipate 2-3 hours of homework per week. 

GROUP 2:  LANGUAGE ACQUISITION 

SPANISH B (SL)

Students will employ their skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing in an appropriate variety of culturally and linguistically sophisticated formats. Both written and oral assessments are required. Seniors in this course will take the International Baccalaureate Language B exam in the spring of their senior year.

 

GROUP 3:  INDIVIDUALS AND SOCIETIES 

IB HISTORY (HL) TWO YEAR COURSE

The DP history course is a world history course based on a comparative and multi-perspective approach to history. It involves the study of a variety of types of history, including political, economic, social and cultural, and provides a balance of structure and flexibility. The course emphasizes the importance of encouraging students to think historically and to develop historical skills as well as gaining factual knowledge. It puts a premium on developing the skills of critical thinking, and on developing an understanding of multiple interpretations of history. In this way, the course involves a challenging and demanding critical exploration of the past. Teachers explicitly teach thinking and research skills such as comprehension, text analysis, transfer, and use of primary sources.The 1^st year of the course, History of the Americas, is designed to develop and expand the students’ understanding primarily of the history of the United States while delving into some Latin, South American and Canadian history from colonialism to the present. The 2^nd year, 20^th Century World History, is an in-depth study of the conflicts that shaped the 1900’s in World History. Students will explore historical events and their political, social, economic and cultural implications.  The course will conclude with three IB History Exams in May of your senior year as well as an internal assessment (research project), which will be completed early in the students senior year. In order to be eligible to get IB credit for this class you must complete both years of IB History and all IB examinations. 

 

GROUP 4: SCIENCES

BIOLOGY SL (ONE YEAR COURSE)

By studying biology in the DP students should become aware of how scientists work and communicate with each other. While the scientific method may take on a wide variety of forms, it is the emphasis on a practical approach through experimental work that characterizes the sciences. Teachers provide students with opportunities to design investigations, collect data, develop manipulative skills, analyze results, collaborate with peers and evaluate and communicate their findings

 

Through the overarching theme of the nature of science, the aims of the DP biology course are to enable students to:

1. appreciate scientific study and creativity within a global context through stimulating and challenging opportunities 

2. acquire a body of knowledge, methods and techniques that characterize science and technology 

3. apply and use a body of knowledge, methods and techniques that characterize science and technology 

4. develop an ability to analyze, evaluate and synthesize scientific information 

5. develop a critical awareness of the need for, and the value of, effective collaboration and communication during scientific activities 

6. develop experimental and investigative scientific skills including the use of current technologies 

7. develop and apply 21st century communication skills in the study of science 

8. become critically aware, as global citizens, of the ethical implications of using science and technology 

9. develop an appreciation of the possibilities and limitations of science and technology 

10.develop an understanding of the relationships between scientific disciplines and their influence on other areas of knowledge.

 

GROUP 5:  MATHEMATICS

Mathematics: Applications and interpretation SL (2 year course)

This course is designed for students who enjoy describing the real world and solving practical problems using mathematics, those who are interested in harnessing the power of technology alongside exploring mathematical models and enjoy the more practical side of mathematics.  To give this understanding a firm base, this course also includes topics that are traditionally part of a pre-university mathematics course such as calculus and statistics. The course makes extensive use of technology to allow students to explore and construct mathematical models. Mathematics: applications and interpretation will develop mathematical thinking, often in the context of a practical problem and using technology to justify conjectures.

• Emphasis on modeling and statistics
• Develops strong skills in applying mathematics to the real-world
• Real mathematical problem solving using technology
• For students interested in social sciences, natural sciences, medicine, statistics, business, engineering, some economics, psychology and design

GROUP 6:  THE ARTS 

VISUAL ARTS (SL or HL)

IB Visual Arts is a two-year study that  encourages students to challenge their own creative and cultural expectations and boundaries. It is a thought-provoking course in which students develop analytical skills in problem-solving and divergent thinking, while working towards technical proficiency and confidence as art-makers. In addition to exploring and comparing visual arts from different perspectives and in different contexts, students are expected to engage in, experiment with and critically reflect upon a wide range of contemporary practices and media. The course is designed for students who want to go on to study visual arts in higher education as well as for those who are seeking lifelong enrichment through visual arts. Supporting the International Baccalaureate mission statement and learner profile, the course encourages students to actively explore the visual arts within and across a variety of local, regional, national, international and intercultural contexts. Through inquiry, investigation, reflection and creative application, visual arts students develop an appreciation for the expressive and aesthetic diversity in the world around them, becoming critically informed makers and consumers of visual culture. IB Visual Arts is also open to all students as an elective with teacher permission.

 

IB CORE COMPONENTS

THEORY OF KNOWLEDGE

 

Theory of Knowledge (TOK) represents the hub for all IB disciplines. The course is two years but students can take just the first half of the course as seniors. The theory of knowledge (TOK) course plays a special role in the DP by providing an opportunity for students to reflect on the nature, scope and limitations of knowledge and the process of knowing. In this way, the main focus of TOK is not on students acquiring new knowledge but on helping students to reflect on, and put into perspective, what they already know. TOK underpins and helps to unite the subjects that students encounter in the rest of their studies. It engages students in explicit reflection on how knowledge is arrived at in different disciplines and areas of knowledge, on what these areas have in common and the differences between them. 

The aims of the TOK course are:

 • to encourage students to reflect on the central question, “How do we know what we know?”, and to recognize the value of asking that question

 • to expose students to ambiguity, uncertainty and questions with multiple plausible answers

 • to equip students to effectively navigate and make sense of the world, and help prepare them to encounter novel and complex situations

 • to encourage students to be more aware of their own perspectives and to reflect critically on their own beliefs and assumptions

 • to engage students with multiple perspectives, foster open-mindedness and develop intercultural understanding 

• to encourage students to make connections between academic disciplines by exploring underlying concepts and by identifying similarities and differences in the methods of inquiry used in different areas of knowledge

 • to prompt students to consider the importance of values, responsibilities and ethical concerns relating to the production, acquisition, application and communication of knowledge.

 

CREATIVITY, ACTIVITY AND SERVICE

Creativity, Activity and Service (CAS) is at the core of an IB diploma. The purpose of the CAS component is to educate the whole person and allow students to experience life in many ways outside of formal education. IB Diploma students engage in real, purposeful experiences with significant outcomes that personally challenge the student and require thoughtful consideration, such as planning, reviewing progress, reporting and reflection on outcomes and personal learning. Students show evidence of engaging in a variety of experiences for 18 months over the course of two years. Students may begin CAS experiences on the first day of their junior year and must complete all requirements by April of their senior year. CAS requirements may be met with student curricular and extracurricular hours, however, students are expected to stretch their learning. With the help of the IB faculty,, students create a CAS project and take part in CAS experiences as individuals and groups. All CAS experiences must be pre-approved with the CAS Coordinator. Non- IB Diploma students have an opportunity to complete CAS. 

 

EXTENDED ESSAY

The extended essay is a compulsory, externally assessed piece of independent research into a topic chosen by the student and presented as a formal piece of academic writing. The extended essay is intended to promote high-level research and writing skills, intellectual discovery and creativity while engaging students in personal research. This leads to a major piece of formally presented, structured writing of up to 4,000 words in which ideas and findings are communicated in a reasoned, coherent and appropriate manner. Students are guided through the process of research and writing by an assigned supervisor (a teacher in the school). All students undertake three mandatory reflection sessions with their supervisor, including a short interview, or viva voce, following the completion of the extended essayIn the junior year, the student decides on a topic and seeks the sponsorship of a faculty advisor. Students are expected to begin work on the project during their junior year and the summer between their junior and senior years under the supervision of an advisor.  The Extended Essay is not a scheduled course. Full IB and Non-IB Diploma students who commit to IB Language and Literature 1 & 2 are exempt from the traditional  Senior Project. Instead, students couple their experience in IB Language and Literature with a culminating project which is presented on Senior Project Day.

 

 

English

The ability to communicate is an essential skill in both personal and professional life.  Sequential achievement in English classes develops proficiency in active listening, effective speaking, critical reading, and writing for a variety of purposes.  Four credits are required for graduation with all students taking the Regents Examination in English Language Arts.  Accelerated courses in grades nine and ten are offered as an option for students who aspire to participate in Advanced Placement and/or International Baccalaureate courses.

 

 

ENGLISH 1 

The English 1 curriculum focuses on reading, writing, listening, and speaking in response to high quality texts that are aligned to the Next Generation ELA Learning Standards. Units contain coherent progressions of learning experiences that build knowledge and understanding of major concepts and encourage independent learning. 

ENGLISH 2 

This course continues reinforcing many of the same skills practiced in English I, but it utilizes more challenging literature selections and varied writing situations. By the conclusion of the course, students are expected to be proficient with persuasive, analytical, and argumentative techniques. 

 

ENGLISH 3 

This course prepares students for success on the English Regents examination. Coursework will focus on reading and writing from a variety of genres to further their skills in literary analysis and the writing process.  Students are required to complete a research paper. 

 

ENGLISH 4

This course emphasizes the application of acquired skills and abilities in literary analysis, listening, speaking, and writing. The required research paper component of the Senior Project allows students to focus on an issue of their choice while instilling the necessary research skills needed for success in both college and future employment. 

 

 ENGLISH 1 Honors

This course challenges students through a combination of challenging reading and intensive writing instruction in order to prepare for the rigors of Advanced Placement Language and Composition or the International Baccalaureate program during the junior year. Accelerated students will take the Regents Examination in English Language Arts  at the end of their sophomore year. 

 

ENGLISH 2 Honors

This course continues to prepare students for the demands of both IB and AP level English classes. At the conclusion of the course, students will take the Regents Examination in English Language Arts.. Students should expect 1-2 hours of homework per week. Completing summer work is a component of this class.  

 

 AP ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND COMPOSITION

 AP fee required                                                 

AP English Language and Composition is an introductory college-level composition course. Students cultivate their understanding of writing and rhetorical arguments through reading, analyzing, and writing texts as they explore topics like rhetorical situation, claims and evidence, reasoning and organization, and style. Students will write in a variety of modes including narration, exploratory, description, argument, comparison and contrast, as well as others – and on a variety of subjects such as personal experience, public policies, social issues, and popular culture. The main objective of the course is to enable students to write effectively and confidently. Students are required to take the Advanced Placement Exam in English Language and Composition in May. Completing summer work is a component of this class.  On average, homework for this class will require 2-3 hours per week. (Students enrolled in this course may be eligible for college credit. For more information regarding AP courses see pages 4 and 7.)

 

AP ENGLISH LITERATURE AND COMPOSITION 

 *AP fee required

Duration: Full  Year  Credit: 1   Prerequisite:  This course emphasizes the application of acquired skills with an extension into college-level analysis and writing.  Students must take the Advanced Placement Exam in English Literature and Composition in May, and complete independent research and performance projects to fulfill course requirements. 

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of AP English Language and Composition or English 3 and teacher recommendation. Completing summer work is a component of this class.  On average, homework for this class will require 2-3 hours per week. (Students enrolled in this course may be eligible for college credit. For more information regarding AP courses see pages 4 and 7.)

 

IB ENGLISH LANGUAGE and LITERATURE 1 & 2 (HL)

The two year IB English Language and Literature course focuses on developing an understanding of the constructed nature of meanings generated by language and the web of relationships they share with the social world. This course focuses on literary and non-literary texts and the unique ways in which author's share their message. A key aim of this course is to encourage students to question the meaning generated by language and texts. The course helps students focus closely on the language of the texts they study and to become aware of the role of each text's wider context in shaping its meaning. Practically, this means students will develop an appreciation of the impact of the context (cultural and social) of both writer and reader on textual construction and interpretation. The appreciation of literary techniques as used in the various genres of literature forms an important aspect of this study as well. Through oral and written commentary as well as comparative textual analysis, students will develop an understanding of how language, culture and context determine the ways in which meaning is constructed as well as think critically about the different interactions between text, audience and purpose.

 

IB English Language and Literature requires a variety of internal and external written and oral assessments which will begin in the junior year and conclude during the senior year.  In IB English 1, students will complete a Higher Level Essay in the second semester.  In IB English 2, students will complete an Oral Commentary in the second semester and will take Paper 1 and Paper 2 exams in May. Students will complete summer work for both courses and should anticipate 2-3 hours of homework per week during the school year. 

GEMINI ENGLISH: COMPOSITION 101 

*Gemini fee required  

The goals of Composition 101 are to develop students’ abilities to write essays with narrative, explanatory, interpretive, and analytical qualities at a college level and to think critically. Students will learn to make decisions based on rhetorical concerns of a writer’s purpose, the readers’ needs, and the context in which documents are read. As using sources effectively is one of the goals in the course, research will be interwoven into documents as a way to support ideas and connect with the audience.  The course emphasizes process-based writing, student reflection of their learning progress, and it culminates in a research paper, genre remix, and a reflection essay. Gemini English 101 is only offered in the fall.  Completing summer work is a component of this class in order to prepare for the Midterm for this course. On average, homework for this class will require 2-3 hours per week during the school year. For more information regarding Gemini courses see page 4.

 

GEMINI ENGLISH: COMPOSITION 103

*Gemini fee required

Composition 103 continues the educational goals of Composition 101 (critical reading and thinking, focused research, reflective writing, and process-based writing).  The course provides students with  higher-level practice in research, analysis, and reflection. The course emphasizes academic research-based writing and culminates in a larger research paper and a reflection essay. Students are required to successfully complete Composition 101 in order to take Composition 103 which is only offered in the spring. Composition 103 is a full semester course which requires students to register and pay a tuition fee. The successful completion of a Senior Project is a graduation requirement and it is a part of the course. On average, homework for this class will require 2-3 hours of  writing outside of school per week. For more information regarding Gemini courses see page 4.

 

English 4 - Communications 

This course is designed for students interested in various forms of media, including writing, videography, broadcasting, and public speaking. This course has two focuses: 1)develop the fundamental skills necessary to run a news broadcast and will cover topics such as interviewing, writing, photographing, developing an on-air personality, becoming familiar with national and world news, and identifying media bias and techniques 2)create videos and newsletters that cover a wide array of topics. Students will produce and broadcast Wayne’s morning announcements and publish bi-monthly student newsletters.

 

 

Mathematics

The program of study in mathematics is designed to provide all students with opportunities to acquire problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Students will understand mathematics and become mathematically confident by communicating and reasoning mathematically, by applying mathematics in real-world settings, and by solving problems through the integrated study of geometry, algebra, data analysis, and trigonometry.

 

Accelerated Students:

 

 

**If students successfully complete Gemini Pre-Calculus they should NOT be signed up for College Prep (either Mathematics of Money, Calc, Stats or IB).

 

**Typically 10th graders should be enrolled in Algebra 2, but on occasion if they were misplaced in MS into the honors track they might need the remedial Algebra 2 General course first and then take Alg 2  as a junior.

 

Non – Accelerated Students

 

 

ALGEBRA I

This is the first year of a full algebra course for students and will serve as one of the three required math credits for graduation. Topics will include linear and quadratic equations, probability and statistics, algebraic fractions, and modeling real problems mathematically. Students will take the Algebra Next Generation State Assessment at the end of the year, which will satisfy one requirement for the Regents diploma

 

GEOMETRY

This is the second year of the NYS three-year math program. The Geometry Next Generation State Assessment  will be given in June. Students pursuing an Advanced Regents Diploma must pass the regents exam with a 65 or higher. Students will identify and justify geometric relationships, formally in proofs and informally using algebra. Lines, planes, 3-dimensional solids, constructions, locus, transformational and coordinate geometry will be studied. A graphing calculator is required for class.  

 

GEOMETRY HONORS

All topics covered under the geometry curriculum will be studied, but the pace is quicker and topics are covered in greater depth. In general, questions are done at a higher level and proofs will be emphasized more than in Geometry.  

 

ALGEBRA 2

This is the capstone course of the three units of credit required for a Regents diploma. To earn an Advanced Regents Diploma, students must pass the Common Core State Assessment (CCSS)with a 65 or higher. This course is a continuation and extension of Algebra. While developing the algebraic techniques that will be required of those students that continue their study of mathematics, this course is also intended to continue developing alternative solution strategies and algorithms. The curriculum in this course is very extensive requiring the introduction of at least one new topic each class.  If students did not pass the Geometry Regents it is recommended that students take Algebra 2 General first.  

 

Building on their work with linear, quadratic, and exponential functions, students extend their repertoire of functions to include polynomial, rational, and radical functions.  Students work closely with the expressions that define the functions and continue to expand and hone their abilities to model situations and to solve equations, including solving quadratic equations over the set of complex numbers and solving exponential equations using the properties of logarithms.  Students will take a Common Core State Assessment (CCSS) at the end of this course.

 

ALGEBRA 2 HONORS

All topics covered under the Algebra 2 curriculum will be studied (see Algebra 2 course description), but the pace is significantly faster, additional topics are explored, and all topics are studied in much greater depth.  Students should be excited and ready to be immersed in an extremely rigorous course which requires extensive time outside of the school day for completion of daily practice assignments, challenge problem sets, independent units of study, and extension projects.  In depth problem-solving, critical thinking and extensive knowledge of the graphing calculator will be expected of all students. This course serves as an excellent preparation for Accelerated Pre-Calculus.  

 

ALGEBRA 2 GENERAL

A subset of the topics covered under the Algebra 2 curriculum will be studied (see Algebra 2 course description).  The pace is slower, allowing students additional time to process and practice concepts. This course does not fulfill the third year of math for the Advanced Regents Diploma.  It is designed for students who struggled with the Algebra and Geometry courses.  Students will take a local exam at the end of this course.

PRE-CALCULUS 1

This course covers topics including analytic geometry, elementary functions, and linear quadratic systems.  Students who wish to take calculus must include pre-calculus in their high school program.  In order to be eligible to earn college credit, students must have a minimum of 80% in Algebra 2 Regents or Honors.

 

GEMINI PRE-CALCULUS 2

Gemini Fee Optional

This pre-calculus course aligns itself with the college course taught at FLCC. Topics include exponential, logarithmic, trig, polynomial and rational functions. Any student planning to take Calculus needs to take this course or Gemini Pre-Calculus Honors. For more information regarding Gemini courses see page 4.  In order to be eligible to earn college credit, students must have a minimum of 80% in Algebra 2 Regents or Honors.

 

GEMINI PRE-CALCULUS HONORS

Gemini Fee Optional                                             

This is a one-year advanced pre-calculus course for juniors taking AP Calculus in their senior year, or for seniors with teacher’s recommendation.  Topics include elementary functions, advanced algebra, limits, linear algebra, analytic geometry, trigonometry, series and sequences.  For more information regarding Gemini courses see page 4.  

 

GEMINI MATHEMATICS OF MONEY

Gemini Fee Optional                                               

Gemini Mathematics of Money is a rigorous, math elective for the college-bound junior or senior who is NOT going on to study Math, Science, or Engineering in college. or as an extra math class. The course is generally populated by those students who wish to pursue college degrees in Business, Humanities, Fine Arts, Liberal Arts, etc. This course is a mathematics course using business related topics to enhance the student's abilities in, and appreciation for, mathematics.  The course topics are chosen so as to be of interest to a broad range of students.  Among the required topics chosen are simple interest, simple discount, and compound interest, present and future value of annuities, Excel spreadsheets, loans, mortgages, credit cards, depreciation, and retirement planning.  Time permitting; the instructor may also cover inflation, profit margins, and currency conversions.  Upon registration and successful completion, students will earn 3 credits from FLCC through the Gemini Program; these credits are transferable to almost any college in New York State.

 

COLLEGE PREP. MATH

College Prep Course is a 4^th year math elective for the college-bound senior who has NOT taken Pre-Calculus and is NOT going on to study Math, Science, or Engineering in college.  The course is generally populated by those students who wish to pursue college degrees in Business, Humanities, Fine Arts, Liberal Arts, etc. This course is a mathematics course designed to help students pass the entry level college exam by strengthening math skills without using a calculator and also some SAT Prep.   Among the topics chosen are algebra review, geometry review, equations and inequalities, functions, exponents, and radicals.  Time permitting; the instructor may also cover statistics, sequences and series.  Students do not receive any college credits for this particular course.

AP CALCULUS AB

AP fee required

This course is very rigorous and requires students to be mature and independent in their learning. Students who have completed four years of honors mathematics by the end of their junior year are generally ready for success in this course.   Students coming from regular Pre-Calculus will have to do extra practice outside of class in order to maintain the level of rigor.  Students will study derivatives and the beginnings of integral calculus.  Students can expect 2-3 hours per week of homework outside of class time.  

 

AP STATISTICS

AP fee required                                                                                                

The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. In May, students will take the AP Statistics Exam, which may (at the discretion of the college) give students credit for an introductory college statistics course.  Students can expect 2-3 hours per week of homework outside of class time.   

 

IB Mathematics: Applications and interpretation (SL) (2 year course)

 

This course is designed for students who enjoy describing the real world and solving practical problems using mathematics, those who are interested in harnessing the power of technology alongside exploring mathematical models and enjoy the more practical side of mathematics.  

• Emphasis on modeling and statistics
• Develops strong skills in applying mathematics to the real-world
• Real mathematical problem solving using technology
• For students interested in social sciences, natural sciences, medicine, statistics, business, engineering, economics, psychology and design

 

GEMINI INTRO. TO PROGRAMMING  (COMPUTER 1)

Gemini fee optional                                                                                                

This course is for beginning programmers that emphasizes the development of languages and software, problem-solving, and programming in a structured, object-oriented language. The Java programming language is used throughout the course. Students can expect 1-2 hours per week of homework outside of class time. Upon registration and successful completion, students will earn 3 credits from FLCC through the Gemini Program; these credits are transferable to almost any college in New York State.  

 

 

Social Studies

The social studies program is geared to provide students with a strong understanding of major ideas, eras, themes, developments, and turning points in the history of the United States and the world.

 

GLOBAL HISTORY  & GEOGRAPHY I 

This course begins with the Paleolithic Era and the development of the first civilizations, continues with an examination of classical societies, and traces the expansion of trade networks and their global impact. The course emphasizes the key themes of interactions over time, shifts in political power, and the role of belief systems. While the course emphasizes the importance of historical and spatial thinking, all of the social studies practices and standards are included in the study of global history and geography. The course concludes with a local examination.  

 

GLOBAL HISTORY  & GEOGRAPHY I HONORS

This course begins with the Paleolithic Era and the development of the first civilizations, continues with an examination of classical societies, and traces the expansion of trade networks and their global impact. The course emphasizes the key themes of interactions over time, shifts in political power, and the role of belief systems. While the course emphasizes the importance of historical and spatial thinking, all of the social studies practices and standards are included in the study of global history and geography. The course concludes with a local examination. The honors level students will be expected to analyze the material in greater depth using a variety of higher level texts and documents. The honors students will also be required to show a deeper understanding of the enduring issues through a variety of performance tasks. All Global I Honors students will take a local examination at the end of this course.  

 

GLOBAL HISTORY & GEOGRAPHY II

This course provides a snapshot of the world circa 1750. The course continues chronologically up to the present. Several concepts are woven throughout the course including industrialization, nationalism, imperialism, conflict, technology, and the interconnectedness of the world. The last three key ideas focus on global issues, applying a more thematic approach.  While the course emphasizes the importance of historical and spatial thinking, all of the social studies practices and standards are included in the study of global history and geography. All global studies students take the Global 10 Regents Examination at the end of this course.  

 

GLOBAL HISTORY & GEOGRAPHY II HONORS

This course provides a snapshot of the world circa 1750. The course continues chronologically up to the present. Several concepts are woven throughout the course including industrialization, nationalism, imperialism, conflict, technology, and the interconnectedness of the world. The last three key ideas focus on global issues, applying a more thematic approach.  While the course emphasizes the importance of historical and spatial thinking, all of the social studies practices and standards are included in the study of global history and geography.  In addition, this course prepares students for Gemini or IB courses in United States History in their junior year. The honors level students will be expected to analyze the material in greater depth using the honors textbook. All global studies students take the Global 10 Regents Examination at the end of this course.  

 

UNITED STATES HISTORY & GOVERNMENT

U.S. History & Government begins with the colonial and constitutional foundations of the United States and explores the government structure and functions written in the Constitution. The development of the nation and the political, social, and economic factors that led to the challenges our nation faced in the Civil War are addressed. Industrialization, urbanization, and the accompanying problems are examined, along with America’s emergence as a world power, the two world wars of the 20th century, and the Cold War. Students explore the expansion of the federal government, the threat of terrorism, and the place of the United States in an increasingly globalized and interconnected world. The course concludes with all students taking the NYS Regents exam in United States History & Government. 

 

GEMINI US HISTORY

Gemini fee required (Students must pay for the Gemini fee both semesters or students will be moved to Regents US History.)

This course will focus on the foundations of the United States to the modern era.  The course will consist of lectures, student-centered projects, and analysis of college level texts and readings.  Students enrolled will take the United States History and Government Regents Examination in June.  Students will be expected to analyze material in greater depth using collegiate level textbooks and other primary sources.  Students are expected to work independently and complete quarterly research papers according to Gemini standards. Students will also complete a separate Gemini Final Assessment.  Students enrolled in this course may be eligible for college credit. For more information regarding Gemini courses see page 4.

 

IB HISTORY (IB HOTA & IB 20th Century)

 

IB History, at the Higher Level will be taught as a two-year course. This course is rigorous in reading and writing as the basis to gather information to hone analytical skills necessary to view Western history from multiple perspectives. The 1^st year of the course, History of the Americas, is designed to develop and expand students' understanding primarily of the history of the United States while delving into some Latin, South American and Canadian history from colonialism to the present. The 2^nd year, 20^th Century World History, is an in-depth study of the conflicts that shaped the 1900’s in World History. Students will explore historical events and their political, social, economic and cultural implications.  The course will conclude with three IB History Exams in May of your senior year as well as an internal assessment (research project), which will be completed early in the students' senior year. In order to be eligible to get IB credit for this class you must complete both years of IB History.

 

INTRODUCTION TO ECONOMICS

Economics examines the principles of the United States free market economy in a global context. Students will examine their individual responsibility for managing their personal finances. Students will analyze the role of supply and demand in determining the prices individuals and businesses face in the product and factor markets, and the global nature of these markets. Students will study changes to the workforce in the United States, and the role of entrepreneurs in our economy, as well as the effects of globalization. Students will explore the challenges facing the United States free market economy in a global environment and various policy-making opportunities available to the government to address these challenges. This course concludes with a local examination.  

 

GEMINI INTRODUCTION TO ECONOMICS

Gemini  Fee Required  - Students must pay the Gemini fee or students will be moved to Economics

This is an introductory course dealing with the principles of economics and how they are applied to consumer choices, business decisions, and within the domestic economy. Students will examine the role of public/private sectors, markets, market structures, economic indicators, and fiscal and monetary policies as they relate to the U.S. economy. This course concludes with a local examination. Students in this course are eligible for 3 college credits through FLCC, and can be applied to any SUNY institution.  For more information regarding Gemini courses see page 4. 

 

PARTICIPATION IN GOVERNMENT

This course aims to provide students with opportunities to become engaged in the political process by acquiring the knowledge and practicing the skills necessary for active citizenship. Participation in government is designed to be a hands-on, practical course that builds on civics, government and history courses that students have taken in previous years. Students view the Constitution as the basis for U.S. law, and will analyze real-life applications of the Bill of Rights in action. Students examine the election process on local, state and national levels and become registered voters themselves. Participation in government and in our communities is fundamental to the success of American democracy. 

 

GEMINI PARTICIPATION IN GOVERNMENT

Gemini  Fee Required  - Students must pay the Gemini fee or students will be moved to Participation in Government 

This course explores the nature and dynamics of the American political system, including the basic structure, functions, and processes of the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of government, the roles of political parties, the mechanics of political campaigns and elections, the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights, and prominent issues in U.S. domestic and foreign policy. This is accomplished through the creation of products and engagement in their local, state, and national government. Students in this course are eligible for 3 college credits through FLCC, and can be applied to any SUNY institution.  For more information regarding Gemini courses see page 4. 

 

Social Studies Electives

 

CRIMINAL LAW

Students will have the opportunity to learn about the criminal justice system and its relationship to the individuals and communities it serves. This course is designed to help students develop an understanding of their legal rights and obligations pertaining to the United States justice system. The course will reinforce students’ understanding of Constitutional rights and duties, the different types of crimes, every day legal issues, and the criminal justice process. 

 

GEMINI PSYCHOLOGY

Gemini Fee Optional

This course is a comprehensive overview of the scientific study of behavior and mental processes. It will familiarize students with the scientific methods used in the field of psychology. It will also introduce various topics within the field, such as consciousness, motivation, learning, memory, cognition, development, personality, psychological disorders and their treatments, social psychology, and the biological bases of behavior.  This course will have a final assessment at the conclusion of the semester. Students in this course may be eligible for college credit. For more information regarding Gemini courses see page 4.

 

GEMINI SOCIOLOGY

Gemini Fee Optional

This course includes topics descriptive of the scope and methods of sociology, the interaction and social nature of man, human groupings, collective behavior and institutions and social change.  This course encompasses the study of Cultures, Socialization, Aging, Deviance and Crime, Class and Wealth, Race, Sex and Gender Issues, the modern Family, Religion and Cults, and Health Care. Students in this course may be eligible for college credit. For more information regarding Gemini courses see page 4.

 

GENOCIDE STUDIES

This course explores genocides that have occurred in modern world history. Students will gain particular insight into the Holocaust period of Nazi Germany; Stalin’s persecution of the Ukrainian Kulaks and genocides in modern-day Bosnia, Rwanda, Iraq, Cambodia and Sudan.  Students will be able to interpret film, literature, poetry, music, and artwork relating to these global events. This course will conclude with a project-based local assessment.

 

POSITIVE PSYCHOLOGY

Positive Psychology is an elective course focused on personal growth. This course adopts a scientific, strength-based approach to discovering what helps people improve their levels of happiness, flourish, thrive and achieve optimal well-being. Students will be provided the opportunity to learn new skills and  participate in experiences to achieve this sense of well-being in a safe, supported, relationship-centered environment. Students will study the science behind positive psychology through experiences that will include topics such as mindfulness, happiness, gratitude, laughter, kindness, grit and resilience. Students will be challenged to grow and develop new skills that include mindfully paying attention, introspection, developing questioning skills, developing empathy, and communication skills. The class will involve individual reflection, group discussions, and practical exercises.

 

IB THEORY OF KNOWLEDGE (1&2)

Theory of Knowledge (TOK) represents the hub for all IB disciplines.The course is two years but students can take just the first half of the course as seniors. The theory of knowledge (TOK) course plays a special role in the DP by providing an opportunity for students to reflect on the nature, scope and limitations of knowledge and the process of knowing. In this way, the main focus of TOK is not on students acquiring new knowledge but on helping students to reflect on, and put into perspective, what they already know. TOK underpins and helps to unite the subjects that students encounter in the rest of their studies. It engages students in explicit reflection on how knowledge is arrived at in different disciplines and areas of knowledge, on what these areas have in common and the differences between them. Students do NOT HAVE to be part of the full IBDP to take this class.