As of 12/04/2015
Britton Deerfield High School Course Descriptions
English
English 9(9)
English 9 is a required course for all ninth grade students. We will read and write memoirs study memoir and poetry; we will research and write a multigenre paper. We will read, watch, discuss, and write about Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Grammar is integrated into other units, with the focus on improving student writing. Students are expected to read books of their choice both during class and at home.
English 10(10)
English 10 is a required course for all tenth grade students. Semester one predominately focuses on the prominent writers of the 19th century. Also during this semester, students will review grammar, poetry and composition skills. During second semester, students will read novels by 20th century authors. This semester also concentrates on public speaking, punctuation, poetry and formal writing skills.
English 11(11)
English 11 is a required course for all eleventh grade students. English 11 is designed to continue to build a solid foundation of knowledge, skills, and strategies that will be refined, applies and extends as students engage in more complex ideas, texts, and tasks. Students will add to the list of various genres of classic and contemporary narrative and information texts with a special focus on World Literature and ACT success.
Honors English 11 (11)
Honors English 11 is a college prep course. Students who plan to go to college and are looking for a challenge should take this course. Prerequisite: teacher approval. Please see Mrs. Wyman for additional information.
English 12(12)
English 12 is a required course for twelfth grade students. We will read and write literacy memoirs, college and scholarship essays, arguments, and short stories. Grammar is integrated into other units, with the focus on improving student writing. Students are expected to read books of their choice both during class and at home. Over the course of the year, students will compile a Senior Portfolio. While there are required elements, the contents of the portfolio will reflect the individual student’s choices, interests, and growth over their high school career.
Honors English 12 (12)
Like Honors English 11, Honors English 12 is a college prep course. Students who plan to go to college and are looking for a challenge should take this course. Prerequisite: teacher approval. In addition, there is some possibility that this class will turn in to an AP class. Please see Ms. Gedeon for additional information.
Desktop Publishing(9-12)
Desktop Publishing focuses on using computer software to format and combine text, numerical data, photographs, charts, and other visual graphic elements to produce publication-ready material. Depending on the nature of particular project, desktop publishers may write and edit text, create graphics to accompany text, convert photographs and drawings into digital images, design page layouts, create proposal, and develop presentations and advertising campaigns. Adobe InDesign and Photoshop will be the primary software used. Desktop Publishing students will be responsible for the design and creation of the school yearbook as well as other publications for the school and community.
Communication(10-12)
The English elective will focus on the media and entertainment choices that bombard our everyday lives. We will explore various forms of media (movies, music, television, social media, etc.) through five key questions on how media impacts our lives. We will move beyond being entertained by media to analyzing and critiquing its messages and purposes. These skills will be developed through regular class discussion, group work, projects, presentations, and essay writing. Students in this class must be ready to think. Warning: This course has been known to change the way you listen to music and watch movies—enter at your own risk.
Reading/Writing Workshop(9-12)
Reading and Writing Workshop is an elective open to all students grades 9 – 12. This is a flexible class, open to students who are looking for a challenge, students who need to make up a credit, and everyone in between. A reading and writing intensive course, students should expect to make choices about what they want to learn. Units offered may vary from student to student and semester to semester. Please see Ms. Gedeon for additional information. Prerequisites: none.
Mathematics
Algebra 1(9)
Algebra 1 is designed to complete a full credit of Algebra 1 in a single school year. Algebra 1 will include a review of operations with rational and real numbers and a focus on linear relationships based on data. Investigations will include an emphasis on the algebraic manipulation of linear expressions, equations, and inequalities; on systems of linear equations; and representing linear equations, including graphing, transformations, and modeling. Algebra 1 will also include the exploration of operations applied to exponential expressions and polynomials. Problems solving skills play a major role in the course.
Geometry(10)
Students will take an inductive, interactive approach to learning geometric concepts. Students will use construction techniques graphing models to reinforce concepts taught in class. Student will be expected to derive definitions through a combination of inductive reasoning and hands on activities. This course covers the required concepts of Euclidean geometry including definitions, postulates, and theorems. Areas of study include angles, parallel lines, congruent and similar triangles, polygons, circles and arc, and the Pythagorean Theorem. Special topics covered include coordinate and spatial geometry, introductory trigonometry, and constructions. In addition to including problems that serve to review algebra, the process of “proving” theorems in introduced.
Algebra 2(11)
This course is designed to provide the required Algebra 2 credit over two semesters. Students will learn to use graphing handheld technology to aid their understanding of the material.
Pre-Calculus (11-12)
This two-semester course is intended for students who plan to continue their mathematics education in college by enrollment in engineering, sciences, or math education programs. Students will use graphing handheld technology to aid their understanding of the materials.
Senior Math(12)
The first semester of Senior Math will include topics such as balancing a checkbook, financing a car, decorating a room, estimating costs, and making a budget. The second semester will focus on preparing seniors for college entrance exams and the Compass test. The material will be Algebra based.
Statistics (11-12)
This one semester course I intended as a senior elective math credit. Students will review the basics of statistics. Students will use handheld technology to assist their understanding and ability to work and interpret data and data distributions.
Trigonometry (11-12)
This one semester course is intended as a senior math credit. Students will review concepts taught in geometry and move on through more complex concepts. Students will use graphing handheld technology to aid their understanding of the materials.
Science
Earth Science(9)
This two-semester class begins with a section of the nature and practice of scientific inquiry. Then an overview of the four Earth Systems (geosphere, atmosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere) and the movement of elements, compounds, and energy with/between these systems are examined. This is followed by a detailed understanding of each system mentioned above. Finally, we discuss the position of the Earth in the universe and its evolution over time. Topics of study will include: Scientific Reasoning and Communication Skills, Earth Systems, Solid Earth, Fluid Earth and the Earth in Space and Time.
Biology(10)
This is a two-semester, laboratory course devoted to the study of the major themes and concepts that explain life processes. During the first semester, the focus is on microbiology and biochemistry. The major themes/standards include: cell biology, genetics, investigation, and experimentation. The content is primarily descriptive, but includes some concepts that require the application of basic mathematical skills. During the second semester, the focus is on macro biology. The major themes/standards include: classification, invertebrate/vertebrate physiology, and ecology. The laboratory exercises consist of topics supplementing lectures/discussions and are designed to lead the student into independent and/or team thought. Animal dissection lab exercises will constitute a majority of second semester coursework.
Chemistry (11-12)
This introductory course will study matter, the ways in which matter changes, and the ways in which energy is involved in these changes. Fundamental concepts of atomic theory, stoichiometry, chemical reactions, inorganic chemistry, acid-base chemistry, thermochemistry, and kinetics are covered as they relate to chemical knowledge. The emphasis is on problem solving in the lab-based course.
Physics(11-12)
This is an advanced math-based class designed for students interested in the health and engineering fields. The course is designed for students to collect data during labs/experiments and reflect on how the physical principles allow for an understanding in other sciences and everyday experiences. The relationships can be represented by mathematical statements, graphs, and maps. Topics of study will include: Scientific Reasoning and Communication Skills, Motion of Objects, Forces and Motion, Forms of Energy, and Energy Transformations. Enrollment in this course is per guidance counselor and or teacher recommendation.
Anatomy (11-12)
Students that take anatomy follow a curriculum that begins with basic cell anatomy and works its way up to different organ systems like the muscular system. Students investigate the structure and function of the human body. Topics covered include; basic organization of the body, biochemical composition, and major body systems along with the impact of diseases on certain systems. A background in Biology is strongly encouraged.
Applied Chemistry (11-12)
This introductory course will study matter, the ways in which matter changes, and the ways in which energy is involved in these changes. Fundamental concepts of atomic theory, stoichiometry, chemical reactions, inorganic chemistry, and kinetics are covered as they relate to chemical knowledge. The emphasis is on problem solving in the lab-based course, while working on the fundamentals of chemistry. Applied chemistry spends less time on math, while still covering a wide variety of chemistry essentials.
Principles of Engineering (9-12)
Students that take Principles of Engineering will follow a nation-wide curriculum that introduces students to a wide range of engineering topics. Students will develop skills in problem solving, research, and design while learning strategies for design process documentation, collaboration, and presentation. Students will learn the basics of mechanical engineering, energy sources, material testing, bridge design, and computer programming. A background in Algebra and Geometry is strongly encouraged.
Principles of Biomedical Sciences (10-12)
Students explore concepts of biology and medicine to determine factors that led to the death of a fictional person. While investigating the case, students examine autopsy reports, investigate medical history, and explore medical treatments that might have prolonged the person’s life. The activities and projects introduce students to human physiology, basic biology, medicine, and research processes while allowing them to design their own experiments to solve problems. A background in Biology is strongly encouraged.
Social Studies
World History and Geography(9)
World History explores the key events and global historical developments that have shaped the world we live in today. The course will address aspects around factors like economics, science, culture, religion, philosophy, politics & law, military conflict, literature and the arts. Students will uncover patterns of behavior, identify historical trends and themes, and explore historical movements and concepts. Students will refine their ability to read for comprehension and critical analysis; summarize, categorize, compare, and evaluate information; write clearly and convincingly; express facts and opinions orally; and use technology appropriately to present information.
U.S. History and Geography(10)
This course examines the major turning points in American history beginning with the events leading up to the Reconstruction and then focusing on the impact of the frontier, the changing nature of business and government, World War I, the Great Depression, World War II, the growth of the United States as a world power, the Cold War and the struggle to achieve class, ethnic, racial and gender equality. The course extends to the modern day. It will be expected that students will take an active part in strengthening their critical thinking, speaking, writing and researching skills.
Economics(11)
Understanding economics is becoming essential for citizens in our national and increasingly interconnected world economy. Students will understand how economies function and how to apply the concepts and principles of economics to their lives as individuals and as citizens. Understanding and applying these concepts and principles should help students make sense of daily events and enable them to analyze and develop reasoned thinking about economic challenges and public policies.
Civics(11)
The course is about government, and more particularly, about government I the United States. Throughout the year we shall consider the ways in which government in this country is organized, the ways in which it is controlled by the people, the many things that it does, and the various ways in which it does things. A special emphasis is placed on current events. Students are expected throughout the year to research, discuss, debate, interview, survey, and complete position papers and projects.
Sociology(11-12)
This course will offer students a unique and engaging exploration of social life, including all forms of social interaction and relationships. Students will learn concepts, theories and research methods that will enable them to understand and appreciate their lives and the larger social world. This course will provide a framework for exploring society and its influence on human groups (but not limited to) issues of race, gender and class. Students can also expect particular emphasis on the study of sport as a cultural phenomenon to better understand and explore social issues.
College Prep Planning (1st Semester) (12)
This course will be offered to seniors on the effects of the college application process and career planning options. BDHS is partnering with the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) and Michigan College Access Network (MCAN)
Debate and Speech (2nd Semester)(12)
This class is a practical course designed to offer the beginner speaker a number of opportunities to organize and prepare public speaking assignments. Students will be expected to speak and debate in front of an audience individually and as a team. Students will learn about the role of communication in our lives, the communication model, delivery styles, and the effectiveness of language, gestures, and organization techniques. Reading and writing assignments are required.
History through Film and Literature (9-12)
An advanced analysis of United States History through various approaches aimed at enhancing the historical perspective of culture and society. The literature and film would include classic and contemporary works of fiction, poetry, and nonfiction through which students explore, analyze, and interpret societal issues and conflicts.
Foreign Language
Spanish 1(9-12)
Spanish 1 is an introduction to the Hispanic language and culture. This primary focus is to gain fluency in highly predictable situation such as conversations about hobbies, foods, schoolwork, etc. Students can expect to memorize large lists of vocabulary words and to learn some basics of Spanish grammar. The Hispanic culture is introduced through small readings and supplemental materials. The text is additionally supplemented with movies, audio recordings, computer software, and online resources.
Spanish 2(9-12)
Spanish 2 picks up where Spanish 1 left off. We begin with a review the basics learned in Spanish 1. Then students will continue to explore new areas of vocabulary and learn new grammar concepts such as talking about past events, and expressing feeling and opinions on a variety of topics. Oral and written proficiency also take on additional importance in this course. Additional instruction regarding Hispanic countries and people are given through supplemental materials such as: movies, games, audio recordings, computer software, and online resources.
Spanish 3(11-12)
Spanish 3 picks up where Spanish 2 left off. We begin with a review the basics learned in Spanish 2. Then students will continue to explore new areas of vocabulary and learn new grammar concepts such as talking about past events, and expressing feeling and opinions on a variety of topics. Oral and written proficiency also take on additional importance in this course. Additional instruction regarding Hispanic countries and people are given through supplemental materials such as: movies, games, audio recordings, computer software, and online resources.