Course Directory

Grades 7 - 12

2010-2011 School Year

Catholic Central High School

“Cherishing the Past ~ Embracing the Future”

625 Seventh Avenue

Troy, New York 12182

(518) 235-7100

www.cchstroy.org

Academic Policies for the Middle School

1. Requirements for Graduation

A. BASIC CORE REQUIREMENTS

Theology 2 years of study

English 2 years of study

Social Studies 2 years of study

Math 2 years of study

Science 2 years of study

B. ADDITIONAL NEW YORK STATE REQUIREMENTS

Second Language 1 unit of study

Technology Education ½ unit of study

The Arts ½ unit in visual arts, ½ unit in music

Health ½ unit of study

Physical Ed 2 years of study

2. New York State 7^th Grade Assessments

a. English Language Arts Assessment

b. Math Assessment

3. New York State 8th Grade Assessments

a. English Language Arts Assessment

b. Math Assessment

c. Social Studies Assessment

d. Science Assessment

E. Spanish Proficiency

4. Integrated Algebra Regents and Earth Science Regents

5. Placement Exam

a. Students entering grades 7 and 8

B. Before entering grade 9

The above State learning standards and requirements define what is taught in the middle school. At Catholic Central, the middle school presents opportunities that challenge students as it provides them with structure to transition to the next academic level. Students are held accountable for their work, their actions, and their ability to succeed.

Graduation Requirements for the High School

Required Courses	Regents Diploma	Regents Diploma with Advanced Designation
	Credits	Credits
Theology	4	4
English	4	4
Social Studies	4	4
Math	3	3
Science	3	3
¨ Language other than English	1	3*
Fine Arts	1	1
Health	1/2	1/2
Physical Education	2	2

Students need a total of 24 credits for graduation.

Four (4) credits of Theology and one (1) credit of business are additional requirements for all CCHS graduates.

¨ Students may be exempt from the language other than English requirement by acquiring five (5) units of credit in any one of the following subject areas:

· Art

· Music

· Business

· Fine Arts

Electives

Departmental electives may vary in their prerequisites. The school counselors direct students in their choice of electives based on their interests and abilities.

Regents Exams

The NYS Board of Regents requires that students demonstrate competency in basic subject areas before a diploma is issued. All students must take and pass a Regents exam in English, Global Studies, American History, Math, and Science in order to graduate. The specific number of required Regents exams for a Regents diploma or a Regents diploma with advanced designation is outlined below. The requirements for a second language other than English are also explained on previous pages.

Required High School Examinations

(All require a score of 65% or better)

Regents Diploma	Advanced Designation Diploma
Comprehensive English	Comprehensive English
Regents Global History and Geography	Regents Global History and Geography
Regents U.S. History and Government	Regents U.S. History and Government
Regents Science Exam—1	Regents Science Exams - 2
Regents Mathematics—1	Language other Than English Exam (* please see page 3)
	Other Mathematics Regents Exams—2

Proficiency Examinations

A NYS Proficiency Exam is given after the completion of the 8th grade Language other than English course. To earn one high school credit, a student must receive a passing grade of 65% on this exam. Otherwise, the student must pass a Language other than English course in high school to satisfy the requirement for a diploma. It is recommended that all students take three or four years of a language in order to prepare for college.

Course Levels: The following "levels" are used to compute class rank. Courses are "weighted" according to their level of difficulty and receive the multipliers listed below:

LEVEL 3 – Advanced/AP/UHS courses – 1.16

LEVEL 2 - Honors courses – 1.08

LEVEL 1 - Regents and Regents-level courses – 1.00

Þ Please note: Students must maintain an un-weighted average of 88% in an Honors course to remain in the Honors Program. Regents’ students wishing to enter the Honors Program must hold an average of 95% in their Regents level courses.

Course Selection and Adjustment

Ninth, tenth and eleventh graders will always have a full schedule because of the graduation requirements. It is strongly recommended that twelfth grade students carry a schedule of no less than 6 courses. In January, the scheduling process begins. Communication and consultation between teachers, school counselors, students, and parents/guardians is very important to ensure proper course placement and selection. Special attention should be paid to prerequisites, past performance, and teacher recommendations before courses are chosen. Course change requests after May cannot be guaranteed, as class sections may have already reached the maximum number of students.

Independent Study

For students who are interested in pursuing areas of study not generally covered in the regularly offered courses, the possibility of independent study exists. Please see your guidance counselor for more information.

Textbooks

School districts which provide textbooks to our students require orders to be placed by June 1st. As a result, course selections must be finalized before this date.

University at the High School (UHS)

The University at the High School Program is under the direction and sponsorship of the University at Albany. The program allows qualified students to earn college credit while still at CCHS. By entering college with previously earned credits, students can expedite their graduation from college or explore a wider range of academic areas during a regular college sequence.

Ø The following UHS courses are available at CCHS:

History	English	Spanish	Science	Math
Semester 1: American and Social History I (100)	Reading Literature (121)	Intermediate Spanish I (103)	Semester 1: General Physics I (105)	Calculus I (112)
Semester 2: American Political and Social History II (101)		Intermediate Spanish II (104)	Semester 2: General Physics II (108)

Ø College Chemistry (pending), World History and American History are offered for AP Credit

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

_________________________________________________________________________________

Course Title	Required/Elective	Grade Level	Credit Value	Weighted Level	Classes Per Cycle
PE 7/8	Required	7-8	-	-	3
PE 9/10	Required	9-10	1/2	1	3
PE11/12	Required	11-12	1/2	1	3

Physical Education 7/8

Students will be offered a wide variety of team, lifetime sports, and cooperative games, as well as many fitness related activities. Fundamentals, history, and rules of each sport/activity will be covered. A written test will be administered following each unit as part of their evaluation. The course will include an introductory unit in our Training Facility.

Physical Education 9/10

Students will be offered a wide variety of team sports and lifetime sports, as well as fitness related activities. History, rules, game situations, and strategies of each sport/activity will be covered during the freshman and sophomore years. Written tests will also be administered following each unit as part of their evaluation. Use of the Training Facility will take place during the second or third quarter. There will be instruction on safety and proper training techniques.

Physical Education 11/12

Students will be offered a wide variety of team and lifetime sports, as well as fitness activities. Units will focus on game situations and strategies for each sport. Use of the Training Facility will take place during the second or third quarter. There will be instruction on safety and proper training techniques.

THEOLOGY

The CCHS program in Theology follows the sequence of courses outlined by the Diocese of Albany.

Course Title	Required/ Elective	Grade Level	Credit Value	Weighted Value	Classes Per Cycle
Life of Christ	Required	7	-	-	6
The Church	Required	8	-	-	6
Theology 9- Scripture/Christology	Required	9	1	1	6
Theology 10- The Church	Required	10	1	1	6
Theology 11- Christian Morality/The Sacramental Life	Required	11	1	1	6
Theology 12- Encountering Jesus/Christian Ministry/World Religions	Required	12	1	1	6

Life of Christ (Grade 7)

The life of Jesus is the focus of this course. The role of Jesus as the Messiah is emphasized through the study of the infancy narratives and the account of his life, teachings, death, Resurrection and Ascension. A study of the social and political environment of Palestine in Jesus’ day is examined. Time is allotted for students to participate in private and group prayer, for reflection and meditation, and to receive the sacraments of the Eucharist and Reconciliation. Service projects, such as aiding the poor and homeless, are offered. The theme of the Sunday readings throughout the liturgical cycle is studied weekly.

The Church (Grade 8)

The church is the focus of the year with special emphasis on its origin, apostolic age, persecutions, and conversion of the barbarian invaders, monasteries, medieval growth, and modern times. Continuing development, contact with Christ, and relevance to present day questions underpin each era. Prayer experiences include formal prayer construction, daily petitions, rosary, way of the cross, meditations and Para-liturgical services. Service projects stress care for the poor, homeless, elderly, and the environment. The importance of the Ten Commandments and the moral implications of contemporary events are the framework of the course. The various sacraments are explored at appropriate points in the overall curriculum. In Theology 8 an overview of the sacraments is included with a special emphasis on the Eucharist.

Theology 9 Scripture/Christology

The purpose of this course is to provide the students with an in-depth study of the Bible as a foundation for further theological study throughout the remaining years of high school. As St. Jerome said, “Ignorance of Scripture is ignorance of Christ.” The course will study salvation history, dating back to Abraham in the Old Testament and continuing through the Gospels and the Letters of St. Paul. The Church’s understanding of the person and natures of Jesus Christ will be analyzed in light of the Scriptures. The role of tradition and the Magisterium in understanding the Bible will be explained. At all times the students will be encouraged to seek God’s revelation and the religious truths found in the Bible stories and to discuss how they can relate to and apply these truths to their daily lives. The sacrament of the Eucharist is covered as students learn of the Old Testament Passover meal and the New Testament Last Supper.

Theology 10 The Church

This course provides a historical survey of the Church from the time of Jesus and the Apostles through today. Such topics as Pentecost, monasticism, the Middle Ages, the Eastern Schism, and the Reformation are valuable for understanding how the Church was shaped by the times and how it emerged as the Church of today. With this foundation, the students will come to understand how the Church—with both divine and human aspects—functions as the Body of Christ in the world. The sacraments of Baptism and Confirmation are covered in the context of Jesus’ ministry and the Pentecost experience.

Theology 11 Christian Morality/The Sacramental Life

This course explores the principal foundations of Catholic moral theology including such topics as sin, conscience, freedom, law, values and methods for moral decision-making, in an effort to help the student live in accordance with Christian values and beliefs. This course also challenges the student to complete the faith-action relationship by applying the principles of Catholic moral theology to the discernment of correct action in many of the moral issues of our times such as social justice, medical/moral issues, war and peace, sexuality and dating, poverty, etc. Theology 11 provides a fitting opportunity to study the sacramental basis of morality. The sacraments of initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist) and the sacraments of healing (Reconciliation and Anointing) are given emphasis.

Theology 12 Encountering Jesus/Christian Ministry/World Religions

The first segment of this course – Encountering Jesus –builds on the academic study of the life of Jesus Christ, which is begun in seventh grade and reinforced in ninth grade. The senior curriculum allows the opportunity for a more personal approach to the Jesus of history/Christ of faith, emphasizing the Scriptures as a basis for meditation. Building on this, a more personal approach to Jesus through prayer is developed. Various prayer traditions that have emerged in the life of the Church are examined: the Jesus prayer, the Rosary, centering prayer, etc. Particular emphasis is given to the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola, as these help in the

discernment of one’s vocation in life. During the second segment of this course, students will study the different vocations as a way of serving Jesus Christ. The single life, the religious life, and the priesthood are studied, as is the vocation to which most Christians are called—marriage. Love, relating, family, sexuality, and communication are all studied with emphasis on student participation in discussion and activities. The sacraments of Holy Orders and Matrimony are examined in the context of Christian lifestyles. Finally, students, about to go out into the world upon graduation, are given a deeper understanding of the religions of our world. The great faith traditions will be examined with a special emphasis given to the other monotheistic religions; Christianity; Judaism and Islam. Eastern religions such as Hinduism and Buddhism will also be studied. A particular focus will be given to the common truths that exist between these religions and Christianity.

Character Education … Heading in the Right Direction …

Respect

Responsibility

Gratitude

Empathy

Justice

Tolerance

Moral Courage

Creativity

Honesty

ENGLISH

Please note: There is a mandatory summer reading program for all English courses.

Course Title	Required/ Elective	Grade Level	Credit Value	Weighted Value	Classes Per Cycle
English 7	Required	7	-	-	7
English 8	Required	8	-	-	7
Writing Workshop	Required	7/8	-	-	1
English 9 Regents	Required	9	1	1	7
English 9 Honors	Elective	9	1	2	7
English 9 AIS	Remediation	9	-	-	4
English 10 ( World Literature) Regents	Required	10	1	1	7
English 10 ( World Literature) Honors	Elective	10	1	2	7
Presentations/Public Speaking	Required	10-11-12	½	1	4
English 11 Regents American Literature	Required	11	1	1	8
English 11 Honors American Literature	Elective	11	1	2	7
English 12 Regents “A Literary Excursion”	Required	12	1	1	7
English 12 Honors British Literature	Elective	12	1	2	7
English 12-UHS	Elective	12	1	3	6
Film and Literature	Elective	11-12	1	1	7
Intro to Theatre and Drama	Elective	10-11-12	1	1	6

English 7

This course emphasizes reading and writing skills, spelling, vocabulary, and grammar. It consists of the independent and guided reading of short stories, poetry, essays, myths, fables, and novels. Writing for the course includes a reading response journal as well as specific assignments in narration, description, exposition, and persuasion. Basic library and research skills are introduced, and a short research paper is required. Students will prepare for the NYS Language Arts Examination in April.

English 8

This course emphasizes the development of skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Spelling, vocabulary, and grammar will also be points of emphasis throughout the year. Writing for the course includes journal entries as well as specific writing assignments in memoir, persuasion, exposition, description, critical review, and research. Students are required to read and report on one book each quarter. Students continue their preparation for the NYS Language Arts examination taken in April.

English 8 Advanced

This course is for students who possess excellent reading and writing skills. Students should be strong independent readers and active participants in class discussion. In addition to receiving instruction in the English 8 curriculum, the students in this course will be expected to engage in extensive research, write lengthy essays, read challenging books, and contribute to the 7^th and 8^th grade creative writing magazine. Prerequisites: Students must have maintained an average of 90% or above in English 7 and scored in the upper 90^th%ile on the standardized test and a score of “4” on the NYS ELA assessment.

Writing Workshop

This course is required as part of the 7^th and 8^th grade English program. It meets once per cycle and is designed to offer students an opportunity to get individual assistance in improving writing skills. This writing course includes focus-correction skills, mini-lessons, writing to music, individual teacher/student writing conferences, and selection of pieces to be included in a creative writing magazine. The workshop constitutes one-fifth of the English grade.

English 9 AIS (Academic Intervention Services)

This class will provide extra assistance and additional time for skill development in the areas of vocabulary, reading comprehension, literacy analysis, grammar and composition. Students will complete various activities including oral reading, listening, critical thinking, and writing. Work will be completed both independently and in cooperative groups. Placement in this class is dependent upon previous special needs and NYS assessment scores. Prerequisites: Students must be specifically recommended for this course.

English 9 Regents

This course is an introduction to the various forms of literature. It includes a general study of the basic skills of communication. The literature program uses an anthology and two paperbacks selected by the teacher. Selected activities in writing include narration, description, and exposition. The research paper is also introduced and a short paper is required of all students. A comprehensive exam completes the course.

English 9 Honors/Writing Workshop

This course is for advanced students who already possess a high degree of expertise and maturity in writing skills, grammar fundamentals, and reading comprehension. In addition, students must be responsible for independent reading and analysis. Participation in class discussion is required. Summer reading is mandated and is tested within the first cycle of the school year. The fundamentals of research and research writing are taught. Prerequisites: Students eligible for this course must have a minimum of “4” on the NYS Grade 8 ELA exams, an average of 90% in their current 8th grade English course and a score of 90% on the placement exam.

English 10 Regents/World Literature

This course builds on the fundamentals of English 9, continuing the focus on global literature that complements our 9^th and 10^th grade Global Studies courses. The literature study will include a focus on building knowledge and understanding of literary devices and elements, vocabulary, and cultural factors. Writing will focus on building expository skills, incorporating literary device tools, and research. Students will develop their speaking and listening skills through a variety of individual and group tasks. A comprehensive final exam will assess the students’ reading and writing skills.

English 10 Regents/World Literature

This course is for students who have demonstrated a superior ability to read and analyze literature independently and who possess above average expository writing skills. It is expected that the student in this course will contribute significantly to the class discussion from the literature that is read. Students’ expository writing skills will continue to be developed as they have opportunities to write persuasive essays, compare/contrast essays, etc. Students will also spend time preparing for the NYS Regents Examination in English and PSAT/SAT exams. Prerequisites: Students eligible for this course must have scored a minimum of 90% on the 9th grade Regents exam and have a cumulative average of 94% in 9^th grade English; English 9 Honors students must have scored a minimum of 90% on the 9^th grade English Honors exam in addition to a cumulative average of 90% in 9^th grade English Honors. In addition to grades, students must be recommended by their 9^th grade teacher.

Presentations/Public Speaking

This course is designed to provide students an exposure to and comfort with the procedures and technology associated with public speaking and presentation-making. It is an interdisciplinary course, meaning content will vary based upon teacher interest although format will be consistent regardless of the instructor.

English 11 Regents/American Literature

This course integrates a survey of American literature focusing especially upon the Romantic, Realistic, Naturalistic, and Modern time periods. Speeches, essays, and historical documents are also discussed. Composition focuses upon the modes of discourse and analysis of representative literary works from the respective literary eras. A research paper is the culmination of the junior year composition program, with emphasis on MLA Style usage. Competent grammar and style is always stressed in preparation for the SAT exam. Students are also prepared for the NYS Regents Examination in Comprehensive English.

English 11 Honors/American Literature

This is an accelerated course for those students who have demonstrated an exceptional ability to read, analyze, and articulate in both the written and spoken mode with a clear degree of independence. The course encompasses the chronological study of American literature. It is multicultural in approach. Students are also prepared for the PSAT, SAT, and ACT exams, along with the NYS Regents Exam in Comprehensive English, which is administered in January. Prerequisites: In order to be eligible for this course, a student must make a final average of 95% in English 10 Regents and score no less than 95% on the June final exam. English 10 Honors students must have a minimum of 90% on the English Regents exam and no less than a 92 final average. In addition to the grade prerequisites, all students moving into this course from the Regents level must have a written recommendation from the grade 10 English teacher on file in the Guidance Office.

English 12 Regents/A Literary Excursion

English 12 Regents is a comprehensive course that is broken up into the 4 academic quarters. The four areas of study are: Business Writing, British Literature, Classical/ World Mythology, and Theater/Movie History.

English 12 Honors/British Literature

This is a college-preparatory course designed to explore the development of the English language and its literature through a chronological study of major British authors. Based according to historical and literary periods, the course will explore the evolution of literature in Britain, beginning with the Anglo-Saxon Chronicles through the 20^th Century. Prerequisites: Students wishing to enroll in this course must have been in English 11 Honors, achieved an end-of-year average of 90% and a minimum or 93% on the NYS Comprehensive Regents Exam.

English 12 University in the High School

This is a college level course for students who have an interest in English, specifically literature. The course combines lectures, seminars, short research projects, and critical papers based on readings from major British, American, and World authors. Emphasis is placed on discussion and writing with the goal of increasing students’ ability to clearly explain their views of literary works. Summer reading is a requirement. Students taking this course have the opportunity to receive 3 credits from SUNY Albany. Students may also take the AP English exam in May. Prerequisites: Students wishing to enroll in this course must have been enrolled in English 10 Honors and English 11 Honors. In addition, students must have a combined average of at least 90% in both English classes and submit an essay illustrating their writing skills. Essay topics will be available upon student request. All essays will be reviewed by the members of the English department.

Film and Literature

This course is designed to introduce students to the study of film from a literary perspective. The curriculum focus will include studies of a variety of genres. Readings will draw from the course textbook and writing will focus on literary analysis of characters, themes and film techniques. A comprehensive final exam will assess the students’ understanding of film terminology and analysis.

Introduction to Theatre and Drama

In this course, students will be introduced to a full range of theatrical and dramatic experiences. Topics will include the elements of acting, creating characters, and the history of theatre.

Theatre and Drama II

Students in this course will build upon the experiences of Introduction to Theatre and Drama, developing their skills in performance, scene study, technical theatre and criticism.

SOCIAL STUDIES

Course Title	Required/ Elective	Grade Level	Credit Value	Weighted Value	Classes Per Cycle
Social Studies 7	Required	7	-	-	7
Social Studies 8	Required	8	-	-	7
Global History 9 R	Required	9	1	1	7
Global History 9 H	Elective	9	1	2	7
Global History 10 R	Required	10	1	1	7
AP World History	Elective	10	1	3	7
US History & Government R	Required	11	1	1	7
US History & Government (UHS/AP)	Elective	11	1	3	7
Economics	Required	12	½	1	7
Economics Honors	Elective	12	1	2	7
Effective Participation in Government	Required	12	½	1	7
Political Science Honors	Elective	12	1	2	7
Introduction to Psychology	Elective	11-12	1	1	7
The American Century	Elective	12	1	2	7

SOCIAL STUDIES 

SOCIAL STUDIES 7

This course represents the introduction to our social studies curriculum. Students will investigate American history and corresponding events in New York State history chronologically through 1860.  Emphasis will be placed on reading comprehension, basic social studies vocabulary, and learning through a variety of different approaches. Students will be familiarized with recurring themes including interaction with the environment, social relationships, political movements and various economic arrangements. Classes will develop their proficiency in writing, document analysis and independent research techniques. Opportunities for cooperative learning and interdisciplinary projects will demonstrate to students the value of meaningful collaboration and the interconnectedness of school subjects.

SOCIAL STUDIES 8

This course complements the 7^th-grade iteration of our social studies curriculum by investigating American history and corresponding events in New York State history chronologically from 1860 to the present.  Students will be expected to build upon the social studies skills and vocabulary to which they were introduced during the previous course. In preparation for the NYS Intermediate Level Social Studies Test, classes will continue to develop their proficiency in writing, document analysis and independent research techniques. Opportunities for cooperative learning and multimedia projects will reinforce the curriculum’s emphasis on collaboration and interdisciplinary learning.

GLOBAL HISTORY AND GEOGRAPHY 9 (Regents)  

This survey class acts as the point of departure for our high school curriculum. Based primarily on but not limited to the state-mandated curriculum, students in this class can expect an introduction to the history, culture, and geography of the peoples of all major regions of the world from the origins of humankind through the Columbian Exchange.  In addition to using the textbook (with an emphasis on comprehension and analysis), students will utilize supplemental readings, maps, artwork, websites, and other materials to trace the narrative of ancient history.  Special emphasis will be placed on content literacy and research.  This is the first half of a two-year course culminating with the Regents exam at the end of the sophomore year. 

GLOBAL HISTORY AND GEOGRAPHY 9 (Honors)  

Though there are chronological parallels with the Regents-level course, the Honors section is quite different in both form and function.  Students electing to participate in our social studies honors program will be expected to read and comprehend at an accelerated pace and advanced level. An emphasis will be placed on independent learning, long-term projects, and elevated classroom dialogue.  Prospective students must be self-motivated, mature, and proficient in all the necessary skill sets – including reading, writing, and study habits.  In terms of content, participants in this class will be exposed to the first half of our AP-level world history curriculum. Prerequisites: A score of “4” on the 8^th-grade New York State Assessments in Social Studies, at least a 90% average in Social Studies 8, the written recommendation of the 8^th-grade teacher, and a writing sample subject to review by the 9^th-grade teacher.

GLOBAL HISTORY AND GEOGRAPHY 10 (Regents)  

This course is a survey of the history, culture, and geography of all major regions of the world from the Columbian Exchange to the present day.  Building upon their foundation in the material and practices of the ninth-grade course, students will enter into a more rigorous and in-depth study of the relevant material and resources.  Students may expect to review a number of basic concepts and ideas useful to the comprehensive study of the humanities.  Special emphasis will be placed on content literacy, research, critical thinking, and document-based analysis.  As this course represents the second half of a two-year curriculum, students will prepare for and participate in a Regents examination at the end of the year. 

AP WORLD HISTORY

AP World History is in many ways a continuation of the content and methods introduced in Global History 9.  As an AP course, however, it requires students to grapple with a wider array of supplementary resources and readings.  Writing assignments are frequent and intensive.  The curriculum begins, chronologically, with an examination of the European Age of Exploration and uses thematically-designed units to trace the history of the world to the present day.  Special emphasis will be placed on independent research, thesis writing, debate, and presentations.  Students will take the AP Exam in May and a school-generated final exam in June (as well as the standard Global History Regents Exam). Prerequisites:: A minimum 90% average in the first two quarters of Global 9 Honors, the written recommendation of the 9^th-grade teacher, and a writing sample subject to review by the 10^th-grade teacher. Any promotion from the Regents program will be considered on an individual basis in consultation with the student, parents, administration, social studies faculty and guidance department.     

U.S. HISTORY AND GOVERNMENT (Regents)  

This third installment of our high school social studies curriculum is a survey of U.S. history from the colonial period to the present day.  Per New York State’s standards, the curriculum emphasizes political and economic history, such as successive presidential administrations and patterns of management-labor relations.  To ensure a more complete coverage of the nation’s history, elements of social, diplomatic, and cultural history are incorporated at appropriate junctures. Students will be expected to utilize the skills and vocabulary introduced to them in their previous social studies courses. Students will prepare for and participate in a Regents examination at the end of the year.

AP / UHS U.S. HISTORY AND GOVERNMENT   

This two-semester survey course promotes and applies the use of higher-level interpretive skills to the major political, social, economic, diplomatic, and cultural developments in U.S. history from the colonial era to the present.  Special emphasis is placed on document-based discursive analysis.  Students are encouraged to evaluate a wide variety of historical media including geography, literature, photography, print journalism, fine and popular art, music, film, and websites.  Students will identify and explore major themes in U.S., NYS, and local history.  This is a rigorous curriculum with a substantial amount of independent work.  Successful completion of the UHS components of the course provides the student with six college credits awarded to them by the State University of New York at Albany.  Students must decide to take the course for AP and/or UHS credit, though all will take the final exams at semester’s end as required by SUNY Albany.  At the end of the year, they will also complete the Regents U.S. History & Government exam.  Prerequisites: A minimum 88% average in the first two quarters of AP World, the written recommendation of the 10^th-grade teacher, and a writing sample subject to review by the 11^th-grade teacher. Any promotion from the Regents program will be considered on an individual basis in consultation with the student, parents, administration, social studies faculty and guidance department.     

EFFECTIVE PARTICIPATION IN GOVERNMENT (Regents)    

This half-year course – paired with Economics – functions as the capstone to our high school social studies curriculum. The class is designed to prepare seniors to accept their role as informed adult citizens in our modern democracy.  Through a series of topics including individual responsibility, social justice, crime, the environment, economics, and international relations, students will be encouraged to familiarize with the issues of the day and partake in active citizenship. Additional content will emphasize comparative politics and civic organization in accordance with NYS standards.

INTRODUCTION TO POLITICAL SCIENCE (Honors)  

This half-year course pairs with Economics (Honors) to kick off the fourth installment of our integrated honors program in social studies.  Incorporating the history, themes, and skills of each of the previous year’s courses, this class introduces students to classical and modern political thought and theory. In addition to engaging with primary works by Hobbes, Rousseau, Locke, Mill, Goldman, Weber, Wollstonecraft, Gandhi, Fanon, Orwell, Aristotle, Burke, Tacitus, Plato, Franklin, Emerson, Confucius and Machiavelli, participants will be encouraged to develop and refine their own perspective on government and related issues. Historical “case studies” highlight themes including “violence,” “liberty,” “revolution” and “civic virtue”. This is a highly rigorous and demanding curriculum with a considerable amount of independent work.   Only those students with a proven track record of excellence will be eligible.  Successful completion of the UHS components of the course provides the student with three college credits awarded to them by the State University of New York at Albany.  Students must take the course for UHS credit and take the final exam at semester’s end as required by SUNY Albany.  Prerequisites: A minimum B+ average in the first semester of AP / UHS U.S. History, the written recommendation of the 11^th-grade teacher, and a writing sample subject to review by the 12^th-grade teacher. Any promotion from the Regents program will be considered on an individual basis in consultation with the student, parents, administration, social studies faculty and guidance department.     

ECONOMICS (Regents)   

This half-year course – paired with Effective Participation in Government – functions as the capstone to our high school social studies curriculum. The class is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills that will enable them to participate as informed and economically-literate citizens in our society and world. Though not meant to be a course in consumer education, the emphasis on rational decision-making will equip students to be savvy and discerning when it comes to personal finances. This is an introductory survey to fundamental economic theory and practice. Students may expect to cover the standards outlined by the NYS curriculum.

ECONOMICS (Honors)    

This half-year course is paired with our Introduction to Political Science course to round out the fourth installment of our integrated honors program in social studies. Incorporating the history, themes, and skills of each of the previous year’s courses, this class introduces students to classical and modern economic theory and practice. In addition to engaging with primary works by Smith, Malthus, Marx, Keynes, Friedman, Levitt and Schlosser, participants will be encouraged to design and compile their own experiments and conclusions on economic decision-making. Real-life “case studies” will explore themes including “value,” “ethics,” “competition,” “regulation” and “resources.´ Prerequisites: Successful completion of Introduction to Political Science.

INTRODUCTION TO PSYCHOLOGY

This survey course examines the history, theory and practice of the discipline of psychology. Special emphasis is placed on real-world cases. Activities will include long-term projects and student-designed experiments applying relevant knowledge and principles.

THE AMERICAN CENTURY (Honors)

From Charlie Chaplin to Chappelle’s Show; from ragtime to rock ‘n roll; from utopianism to You Tube and everything in between.  Students will examine the cultural and social history of the United States from 1900 to the present. Special emphasis will be placed on alternative educational resources including music, film, fiction, poetry, advertising, television, and the Internet. Participants should expect to be evaluated based on their contribution to class discussions and debates and their performance on written work and presentations. Students will “learn-by-doing” in specially-designed projects that ask them to study the past by immersing themselves in similar circumstances. Prerequisites: Open to seniors who have demonstrated excellence in previous social studies courses, especially with respect to classroom participation.  Teacher recommendation and interview required.

Business

Business

Course Title	Required/Elective	Grade Level	Credit Value	Weighted Value	Classes Per Cycle
Computer 7	Required	7	-	-	2-4
Computer 8	Required	8	-	-	2-4
Owning Your Own Business	Elective *	9-10-11-12	1	1	6
Personal Finance	Elective *	9-10-11-12	1	1	6
Sports and Entertainment Marketing (Not offered 2010-2011)	Elective *	9-10-11-12	1	1	6
International Business (Not offered 2010-2011)	Elective *	9-10-11-12	1	1	6
E-Commerce	Elective	10-11-12	1	1	7
Business Law and Ethics	Elective	11-12	1	1	7
Accounting 1	Elective	10-11-12	1	1	7
Co-Operative Work Experiences	Elective	10-11-12	1	1	n/a
Advanced Accounting	Elective	11-12	½	1	4

* Please note: All CCHS students are required to take at least one course in Business

Computer 7

Students are instructed in the basics of the computer. They will also learn proper keyboarding techniques and word processing skills. Students will work with Microsoft Word, Excel, Publisher, and PowerPoint programs. They will learn about the safe, efficient use of the Internet. The course requires students to complete projects designed to reinforce material learned in other courses. This course will be graded on a Pass/Fail basis.

Computer 8

Students learn to enhance keyboard and typing skills and receive more detailed instruction about the basic components of computers. Students will continue working with a variety of programs such as Microsoft PowerPoint for slide shows, Microsoft Excel for spreadsheets, and Microsoft Publisher for desktop publishing, and Microsoft Word for word processing. They will spend time using the Internet as a research tool. This course will be graded on a Pass/Fail basis.

Owning Your Own Business

Students will be presented with marketing principals and practices that contribute to business success. The practices will be applied to local, regional, national, and international business. The creation of a business plan is covered extensively. This plan will be realistic in order to provide the students with an authentic experience. Sole proprietorships, partnerships, and corporations will be formed. CCHS Internet Agreement is required.

Personal Finance

This class covers topics such as money management and budgeting, making good financial choices, credit card debt, investments, car purchasing, insurance, and many other crucial topics. This computer based course will be a mix between hands-on material and lecture. Group and individual projects and presentations will be required throughout the year. Prerequisites: limited to 20 students.

Sports and Entertainment Marketing (Not offered 2010-2011)

Students will take a step-by-step journey through the world of marketing. Business concepts from production through manufacturing will be discussed daily. Through fact-gathering and critical thinking sessions, students will apply their knowledge of sports and entertainment marketing to real life, legal experiences. Group and individual projects and presentations will be required throughout the semester. CCHS Internet Agreement is required.

International Business (Not offered 2010-2011)

This dynamic course will cover topics such as competing in a Global Market, Understanding Global Cultures, Ethics in Today’s World, and Global Entrepreneurship. The course will be a mix between classroom and computer work. Group and individual projects and presentations will be required throughout the year.

E-Commerce

This class teaches how business concepts apply to the electronic world of E-Commerce. It is highly individualized and independently run. Students must be able to devote time outside of school to both work on the website and run multiple school-related events. To be successful in E-commerce, students should be motivated, self-disciplined, and have the initiative to devote time to making the Scores-up website a success. Prerequisites: Students must have approval of the teacher. The class is limited to 20 students.

Business Law & Ethics

This course emphasizes the relationship between business law and the individual's personal and occupational life. Topics taught include: employment, civil suits, criminal procedures, real and personal property, credit, bankruptcy, insurance, renting an apartment, buying a house, corporations, torts, and agencies.

Accounting I

This course will help prepare students for their first college accounting course. It will focus on proprietorships, partnerships, and introduce corporations while learning about both service and merchandising businesses. Both fundamental elements of accounting are studied, as well as analyzing business transactions, preparing financial statements, and maintaining payroll records. In early winter, Internal Revenue personnel will train and certify all students to become VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) volunteers. We will prepare tax forms for fellow students as well as individuals in our community. Catholic Central High School is the only high school in New York State participating in this program, which looks great on college applications.

Co-Operative Work Experience

This course offers credit to a full-time student involved in paid, part-time employment. The student’s work duties and responsibilities must relate to a business course being taken during the same year. Permission to contract for this course must be solicited from the teacher of the course. At least 300 hours of work experience is required to earn one credit. Prerequisites: Students must be presently enrolled in a business course.

Advanced Accounting

Students will learn the concept of a merchandising business with a corporation’s ownership. We will continue to research such diverse topics as publicly held corporations, plant assets and depreciation, and uncollectible accounts receivable. Anyone participating in the Advanced Accounting program will be actively involved in the VITA tax program. Students will be preparing our Accounting I students for our tax program by teaching the Link & Learn IRS website and helping our IRS volunteers assemble our VITA tax community program. Prerequisites: Accounting I.

FOREIGN LANGUAGE

All Grade Seven students are expected to take Spanish 7. This will be followed, in Grade Eight, by Spanish 8. At the end of Spanish 8, students will take the NYS Proficiency exam for Spanish. Those passing the Proficiency exam will be awarded one unit of credit for a Foreign Language that may be applied to the NYS requirement for a Regents diploma. Students desiring to continue with the study of a Foreign Language in high school will begin with Spanish II in Grade Nine.

All incoming freshmen who have successfully completed Spanish in the 7th and 8th grades with a minimum of 2.5 hours per week and who have passed the NYS Proficiency exam may be advanced to Spanish II. Those who score 85% on the NYS Proficiency may enroll in Spanish II H. All other freshmen will be placed in Spanish I.

The University at the High School Program (UHS) in Spanish IV and V is offered. This program is offered at CCHS in conjunction with the University at Albany. Upper level Spanish students may receive as many as seven (U @ Albany) credits for the successful completion of Spanish IV and V.

FOREIGN LANGUAGE

Course Title	Required/Elective	Grade Level	Credit Value	Weighted Level	Classes/cycle
Spanish 7	Required	7	1/2		6-7
Spanish 8	Required	8	1/2	-	6-7
Spanish I R or Passing the Spanish Proficiency Exam	Required	9-10	1	1	7
Spanish II R	Elective	9-10	1	1	7
Spanish II H	Elective	9-10	1	2	7
Spanish III R	Elective	10-11-12	1	1	7
Spanish III H	Elective	10-11-12	1	2	7
Intermediate Spanish I (UHS)	Elective	11-12	1	2	7
Intermediate Spanish II (UHS)	Elective	11-12	1	3	7

Spanish 7

This course is an introduction to elementary Spanish and includes the development of the basic skills of communication: listening, speaking, reading and writing. Emphasis is placed on building topical vocabulary and basic grammatical skills that will allow students to respond to everyday situations in a meaningful way. The study of the culture and civilization of the Spanish-speaking world is included.

Spanish 8

This course continues the development of the communication skills that were introduced in Spanish 7: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The students will take the New York State Proficiency Examination in Spanish at the end of the year.

Spanish I Regents 

This course continues the introduction to elementary Spanish and includes the development of the basic skills of communication: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Incoming freshmen will be placed into Spanish I or II, depending on the results of their New York State Proficiency Examination.

Spanish II Regents

Spanish II continues the development of the communication skills that were introduced in Spanish I. The study of vocabulary and grammar as well as the culture and civilization of the Spanish-speaking world is extended. Prerequisites: Incoming freshmen must score at least 65% on the New York State Proficiency Examination in Spanish to register for this course.

Spanish II Honors 

This course follows the identical curriculum as Spanish II Regents and is taught at a more accelerated rate. It also allows for more in-depth study of topics at the discretion of the teacher. Prerequisites: Students must maintain an overall average of at least 90% in Spanish I H or 95% in Spanish I R and receive the recommendation of their Spanish I teacher to register for this course. Incoming freshmen may take the course if they scored 85% on the NYS Proficiency Exam in Spanish.

Spanish III Regents

This course expands upon the vocabulary and grammatical structures learned in Spanish II. Emphasis is placed on advanced levels of communication. Repetitious drills are used to understand the material. Students will take the New York State Comprehensive Regents Examination at the end of the year.

 Spanish III Honors

This course follows the identical curriculum as Spanish III Regents and is taught at a more accelerated rate. It also allows for more in-depth study of topics at the discretion of the teacher. Prerequisites: Students must have an average of 90% in Spanish II H or 95% in Spanish II R and receive the recommendation of their Spanish II teacher to register for this course.

Intermediate Spanish I (UHS)

This course is offered every other year and is part of the University at the High School program. Students will be introduced to the art and literature of the Hispanic world through an in-depth review of grammar and related vocabulary. Spanish Tales and Traditions is a course that deepens and enriches the student’s ability to communicate effectively in the spoken and written language, all of which serve to satisfy their appreciation of Hispanic artists and writers, both past and present. Successful completion of this course will provide four undergraduate credits from the University at Albany. Prerequisites: Students must maintain an overall average of at least 85% in Spanish III, pass the New York State Comprehensive Regents Examination in Spanish, and receive the recommendation of their third-year teacher.

Intermediate Spanish II (UHS)

This course is offered every other year and is a part of the University at the High School program. This course will be taught entirely in Spanish. The culture and literature taught throughout the course deepens and enriches the student’s ability to communicate effectively in the spoken and written language. Students will be expected to read authentic literature, research topics, and provide written and oral presentations. Successful completion of this course will provide four undergraduate credits from the University at Albany. Prerequisites: Students must maintain an overall average of at least 85% in Spanish III, pass the New York State Comprehensive Regents Examination in Spanish, and receive the recommendation of their third-year teacher.

Science

Course Title	Required/ Elective	Grade Level	Credit Value	Weighted Level	Classes/cycle
Life Science	Required	7	-	-	7
Physical Science	Required	8	-	-	7
Health 7/8	Required	7-8	-	-	1
Grade 9 Science AIS	Remedial	9	-	-	4
The Living Environment R	Required	9-10-11-12	1	1	8 + 1 additional lab
The Living Environment H	Elective	9-10-11-12	1	2	8 + 1 additional lab
Earth Science R	Required	10-11-12	1	1	8 + 1 additional lab
Earth Science H	Elective	8, 10,11,12	1	2	8 + 1 additional lab
Chemistry R	Elective	11-12	1	1	8 + 1 additional lab
Chemistry H	Elective	10-11-12	1	2	8 + 1 additional lab
Astronomy	Elective	11-12	1	1	6
Environmental Science	Elective	11-12	1	1	6
Physics R	Elective	11-12	1	1	8 + 1 additional lab
Physics (UHS)	Elective	11-12	1	3	8 + 1 additional lab