Upper School Course of Study

Graduation Requirements:

Students in grades 9 through 12 must meet the following graduation requirements to earn a diploma:

• Students should not assume that elective courses have any less work than they would find in a course that fills a graduation requirement.
• Students must earn a minimum of 24 credits to graduate.
• Required courses taken outside of the School must be pre-approved by the Head of the Upper School and may require additional testing to be accepted towards graduation.
• The School reserves the right to evaluate each student’s transcript at the time of entrance to determine which credits will be accepted from another school.
• Seniors perform a 2-week business or professional internship in an area of career interest prior to graduation.  Each senior must complete a minimum of forty hours of work during that time to graduate.
• The School may cancel any class for which an insufficient number of students pre-register.

Selecting Courses:

• Students must take six classes per year; seniors may take 5 provided that all requirements have been met.
• When completing the course selection form, students must carefully circle the course number and the class being requested.
• Where an asterisk follows the course title, the student must have two teachers indicate their approval by signing the form: one, the student’s current teacher and the other, the teacher of the desired course.  It is the student’s responsibility to obtain a teacher’s signature before being permitted to request that course.
• Parents must sign the form before the Director of Student Services will accept it.  Student requests, teacher recommendations, and course availability will determine course selections.  The final placement of a student in courses is subject to the approval of the Head of the Upper School and/or the Director of Student Services.

ENGLISH

The Benjamin English curriculum, consistent with the school’s philosophy, is committed to the preparation of its students for college level English and literature.  The general courses have this as their primary objective while honors and advanced placement courses aid student in academic preparation for highly competitive and most competitive colleges. We accomplish these goals by teaching a logical, sequential curriculum that emphasizes the mastery of literary analysis as well as mastery of oral and written expression.  This is a reading and writing intensive curriculum that is ably supported by our elective offerings.

Students must earn four credits in English as a requirement for graduation, including the following:  9^th Grade English, 10^th Grade English or Honors 10^th Grade English, 11^th Grade English or 11^th Grade/AP Language and Composition, and 12^th Grade English or AP Literature and Composition.

9^th Grade English (010)                                                                                                       Full Year; 1 Credit

This course is a comprehensive study of the fundamentals of literary analysis, language, and grammar through composition and expository writing.  Reading and writing critiques of short fiction, novels, drama, and poetry are the vehicles for the study of literary form.  Students will also analyze selected films.  The course will devote abundant time to class discussion to allow for expression of opinions (and the appreciation thereof), and to recognize the power of multicultural approaches.  The teacher will make use of both in-class timed writing and longer formal written work and projects. In addition to improving their vocabulary through their extensive reading, students use a vocabulary text throughout the year for more formal vocabulary development.  Students must complete assigned summer reading before their return to school in August.

Prerequisite:  8^th Grade English

10^th Grade English (020) and 10^th Grade Honors English (025)                                        Full Year; 1 Credit

Literary analysis based upon plot, setting, characters, conflict, point of view, diction, artistic devices, and themes is the primary focus of these courses.  Readings include non-fiction, poetry, short stories, novels and plays, as well as film analysis.  The emphasis is on American literature, but not exclusively. The teachers use class discussion to broaden minds, enhance vocabulary, improve proficiency in verbal expression, and encourage self-confidence and critical thinking. In addition to improving their vocabulary through their extensive reading, students use a vocabulary text throughout the year for more formal vocabulary development.  Honors students read more literary works, do more writing and display more sophistication in their work. Honors preparation focuses more on their preparation for AP Language and Composition in the junior year. Students must complete assigned summer reading before their return to school in August.

Prerequisite:  9^th Grade English; teacher approval for admission to the honors section. 

11^th Grade English (030)                                                                                                     Full Year; 1 Credit

This is a literature and writing course focusing on development in the critical analysis of literature and the writing of critical essays.  The content includes a study of novels, plays, films, short stories, and poetry as well as an applicable method of critical analysis.  The course examines the historical and literary significance of major works and authors. In-class timed essays, formal papers, quizzes, and projects are prominent forms of assessment.  The course places an emphasis on oral presentation and critical essays as the result of literary analysis.  In addition to improving their vocabulary through their extensive reading, students use a vocabulary text throughout the year for more formal vocabulary development.  Students must complete assigned summer reading before their return to school in August.

Prerequisite:  10^th Grade English

11^th Grade AP Language and Composition (001)                                                               Full Year; 1 Credit

This course provides a more sophisticated and in-depth treatment of the requirements of 11^th grade literature as well as preparation for the Advanced Placement examination in English Language and Composition.  Participants will have frequent writing assignments, both in-class timed essays and writing at-home.  Literature of the five genres provides the subject matter for tests patterned after those of the AP Language exam.  Students must complete assigned summer reading before their return to school in August.

Prerequisite:  10th grade Honors English recommended and teacher approval required. 

12^th Grade English (049)                                                                                                     Full Year; 1 Credit

A literature and writing course, this senior English course focuses on the critical analysis of literature and the writing of critical essays, primarily to provide students with superior preparation for competitive college level English.  Literature will involve all five genres and film.  Writing will emphasize personal essay, formal papers, three part essay, process analysis, compare and contrast, and in-class timed essays.  Students will also review basic syntax, grammar and style.  In addition to improving their vocabulary through their extensive reading, students use a vocabulary text throughout the year for more formal vocabulary development.  Students must complete assigned summer reading before their return to school in August.

Prerequisite:  11^th Grade English or 11^th Grade AP Language and Composition

12^th Grade AP Literature and Composition (002)                                                              Full Year; 1 Credit

A literature and writing program focusing on the critical analysis of literature and the writing of critical essays, this course prepares students for the Advanced Placement English Literature and Composition exam.  The students will have frequent writing assignments, both in-class timed and at-home.  Literature of the five genres, plus film, provides the subject matter for tests patterned after those of the AP Literature examination.  Students must complete assigned summer reading before their return to school in August.

Prerequisite:  11^th Grade AP Language and Composition recommended and teacher approval required

Debate I (060)                                                                                                   One Semester (Fall); ½ Credit

Debate at The Benjamin School introduces the novice debater to the fundamentals of speech communication.  In this course students develop skills related to debate and forensic activities and apply the principles of effective communication, especially those related to argumentation and debate, research skills, critical thinking skills, listening and speaking skills, and formal written preparation of materials for competitive speaking.  Students participate in debate activities based on the national high school debate topic and in interscholastic competition as sanctioned by the Forensics Program and the National Forensics League.

Debate II (061)                                                                                                 One Semester (Fall); ½ Credit

Debate II at The Benjamin School will allow the more experienced debater to further develop and enhance skills in more challenging events such as Lincoln-Douglas, Public Forum, Extemporaneous Speaking, Original Oratory, Dramatic Interpretation and Duo Dramatic Performance. Students will participate in debate activities based on the national high school debate topic and interscholastic competition as sanctioned by the Forensics Program and the National Forensics League. This course will also allow the student to mentor and support fellow members of the debate team, develop constructive criticism and support, recognize strengths and weaknesses in content and delivery, build files, organize information, conform pieces to meet time limits, develop vocal variety and body language as appropriate to event, and compile various resources and materials.

Diverse Voices (074)                                                                                One Semester (Spring); ½ Credit

Diverse Voices is an elective course which seeks to acquaint students with authors that they might not otherwise encounter in the course of many traditional high school curriculums because of race, gender, or class of the writers. Students emerging from this class will know about these authors, appreciate the literary merits of their work, and also begin to understand some of the circumstances, and societal constraints that silenced them.  In understanding how these writers overcame the obstacles to their publication, students will come away from this course understanding that the ability to express oneself in any medium is a privilege.  Students will assess the literature for both its literary and cultural merit via a number of different writing assignments and projects. Writers studied may include Phyllis Wheatley, Frederick Douglass, Kate Chopin, Charlotte Perkins Gilman, Dorothy Parker, Susan Glaspell, Herman Melville, Ernest Hemingway, Joyce Carol Oates, Carolyn Heilbrun, Toni Morrison, Michael Cunningham and Virginia Woolf.  Films and television shows from the sixties to the present time which speak to and for the need for cultural diversity will also be examined.

Prerequisite: 10^th Grade English  or 10^th Grade Honors English

English Grammar and Composition (015)                                                        One Semester (Fall); ½ Credit

This course helps students who need support in developing the skills necessary for competency in the writing program at The Benjamin School. The course will focus on the grammatical structures necessary for making each student's writing more meaningful and coherent. The teacher will connect the instruction of grammar and sentence structure to show students the importance of each in the composition process. While the paragraph will be the primary focus of attention, students will also learn to develop the skills needed for writing essays.

Expository Writing (014)                                      One Semester (Fall or Spring) or Full Year; ½ or 1 Credit

The journalism/Geodes class gives students the opportunity to pursue journalistic and creative writing.  The first semester focuses primarily on the production of the Pharcyde, the school paper, while the second semester creates an additional issue of the Pharcyde, and the annual literary magazine, Geodes.  Students learn to write, edit, layout, produce, and support journalistic publications.  The course grading is done in portfolio format with all students gaining knowledge and expertise in areas of writing, editing, page construction, and paper production.

Film Analysis (053)                                                                                           One Semester (Fall); ½ Credit

The film analysis course gives students an understanding of films as works of literature and provides instruction in the basic film types and genres.  The course directs students in the following areas of study: the use of motifs in film, the use of narrative in film, the use of elements specific to film such as cinematography, lighting, editing, and sound.  The course also explores the use of film as social commentary.  Students will view and discuss films in a variety of genres and will develop and apply a system of analysis for the writing of film reviews.  They will keep journals on all films presented, and on a regular basis the teacher will grade these reports.  Students will watch outside films as well.

Prerequisite:  10^th Grade English or 10^th Grade Honors English

Mythology (033)                                                                                           One Semester (Spring); ½ Credit

Students learn about familiar and non-familiar mythology: Greek, Roman, Norse, Native American, Asian, Irish, and Judeo-Christian. By experiencing different myths in a variety of cultures, students gain not only knowledge but also an appreciation of the beliefs of others.  The course also explores the use of myth as literary allusion.

Prerequisite:  9^th Grade Literature

Print Productions (055)                                                                                                       Full Year; 1 Credit

The yearbook course is open to students from grades 9‑12.  Students will learn the stages necessary for publication including captions, page layouts, photography, and meeting deadlines. The course will operate on a full‑year format, publishing a hard cover edition before graduation and a supplement by summer.

Prerequisite: Students must have the instructor’s permission to enroll.

Speech (059)                                                                                                     One Semester (Fall); ½ Credit

This one semester course introduces the basic principles of crafting and delivering various types of speeches.  Students learn about verbal and non-verbal delivery techniques and complete a variety of exercises designed to enhance these skills.  The second half of the course centers on the various types of persuasive speeches and methods of persuasion.  The teacher evaluates students primarily on a series of speaking projects, as well as their written critiques of others, quizzes, group work, and class participation.  No prior knowledge or experience in public speaking is necessary.

MATHEMATICS

More so than most other disciplines, mathematics is a sequential subject.  Each semester builds upon the work of the previous semester, adding new concepts and approaches with a minimum reinforcement of previous knowledge.  Therefore, the mathematics department believes that students should have a strong problem solving ability.  Tests or homework assignments that require only multiple-choice answers are not an acceptable assessment tool in mathematics. At least half of the test or homework assignment must require students to show work, and the teachers grade the work, not just the answer.

Students need to have a graphing calculator starting with Algebra II.  The aim of the department is to use the calculator as a tool in learning, not merely to get an answer.  Teachers place an emphasis on number sense and the ability to solve problems without the calculator. Students must do a problem analytically then check their work with a calculator, or they can do the problem using a calculator, then show analytically that the answer is correct.

The mathematics department does not believe in advancing students beyond their ability level.  Placing students in Algebra I before they are ready is not a good practice.  The foundations of algebra and geometry are essential for a good math program. Pushing students too quickly through these basic courses does not make them better mathematicians.  Rather it tends to frustrate the student and destroys the love of mathematics and learning.  The aim of the mathematics department is to produce students with a strong mathematics and problem solving background.

Students must earn four credits in mathematics to be eligible for graduation.  These must include Algebra I, Algebra II, and Geometry.

Algebra I (113)                                                                                                                    Full Year; 1 Credit

This course focuses on reinforcement and expansion of real number properties and operations, solutions to linear equations and inequalities, solution and factoring of quadratics, polynomials, and irrational numbers.  Problem solving practice is extensive.

Prerequisite: 8^th Grade Pre-Algebra or Eighth Grade Algebra

Geometry (124) and Honors Geometry (114)                                                                     Full Year; 1 Credit

Students in these classes investigate logical structures involving the major postulates and theorems of Euclidean Geometry.  The class studies geometric constructions, coordinate geometry, and non-Euclidian geometries.  Students apply trigonometric concepts to appropriate facets of geometry.  Honors students explore all topics more extensively.

Prerequisite: Algebra I is a prerequisite for Geometry and Algebra I (8^th grade) with a grade of B or above and department’s approval for Honors Geometry

Algebra II (135)                                                                                                                   Full Year; 1 Credit

The course continues the work of Algebra I including the overview of trigonometry beyond the right triangle.  It emphasizes the further development of skills and more advanced problem solving techniques.  Topics include rational expressions, equations and inequalities, systems of linear equations, word problems, functions, factoring, polynomial equations with rational and irrational roots, imaginary and complex numbers, graphs, variations, exponents, logarithms, rational functions, coordinate geometry, and matrices.  A student who is enrolled in this course needs to have a graphing calculator.

Prerequisite: Geometry

Honors Algebra II (125)                                                                                                      Full Year; 1 Credit

Honors students explore the topics of Algebra II and trigonometry in greater depth in preparation for pre-calculus. Students use the graphing calculator extensively.  Students must maintain a C+ average or above to remain in Honors Algebra II.

Prerequisite: Honors Geometry with a grade of B or above and departmental approval.

Finite Mathematics (171)                                                                                                    Full Year; 1 Credit

This course is for students who need to meet the requirement of four years of high school mathematics to graduate.  This course serves as a general liberal arts (college) mathematics course and better serves those students planning to major in the arts versus the sciences.  Topics include sets, logic, sequences and series, matrices, elementary probability and statistics, algebra and informal geometry review.

Prerequisite: Algebra II

Pre-Calculus (157)                                                                                                          Full Year; One Credit

Seniors who take Pre-Calculus plan to continue their study of mathematics in college.  This course is also for juniors who plan to continue their study of mathematics at Benjamin by taking Pre-Calculus II or AP Statistics their senior year. Juniors who take PreCalculus 157 will not be able to take AP Calculus in their senior year. 

The course stresses the concepts of algebraic, polynomial, trigonometric, rational, exponential and logarithmic functions and their graphs, with an introduction into the mathematics of finance.  The course will provide continued development of analytical geometry and a comprehensive review of Algebra II.  Students need to have a graphing calculator.

Prerequisite: Algebra II

Pre-Calculus II (158)                                                                                                    Full Year; One Credit

This course is for students who have completed Pre-Calculus (157).  The course stresses linear programming, systems and matrices with applications in business, the counting principles and probability, statistics, applications of spreadsheets in analyzing problems while providing continued review of Pre-Calculus.  The course also introduces some of the elementary concepts of calculus (limits and derivatives).  Students need to have a graphing calculator.

Prerequisite: Precalculus (157)

Honors Pre-Calculus (137)                                                                                             Full Year; One Credit

Honors Pre-Calculus is primarily for the students who plan to continue their study of mathematics by taking AB or BC Calculus at Benjamin.  The students study all of the materials of Pre-Calculus with the exception of statistics.  During the last marking period the class begins calculus topics (limits and derivatives).  Students who wish to take AP Calculus must take Honors Pre-Calculus. Students need to have a graphing calculator.

Prerequisite: Honors Algebra II with a B or better or a minimum of an A- in regular Algebra II and have departmental approval.

Advanced Placement Calculus AB (108)                                                                            Full Year; 1 Credit

This course is a study of the basic concepts, methods and applications of differential and integral calculus.  The teacher uses a multi-representational approach with concepts, results and problems being expressed geometrically, analytically, and verbally.  This is a college level course as determined by the College Board.  Topics covered include limits, rates of change, the chain rule, implicit differentiation, related rate problems, movement of a particle, optimization, Riemann Sums, fundamental theorem of calculus, area between curves, volume of solids of revolution, differentiation and integration of polynomial, trigonometric, exponential and logarithmic functions.  Students may earn one semester of college credit in calculus.  They need a graphing calculator and must take the national AB Calculus exam at the end of the year. 

Prerequisite: Honors Pre-Calculus with a grade of B or above and departmental approval.

Advanced Placement Calculus BC (109)                                                                            Full Year; 1 Credit

This course is an extension of AB Calculus, not an enhancement.  It covers all topics of AB Calculus, as well as L’Hopital’s Rule, analysis of planar curves, differential equations, slope fields, derivatives of parametric, polar and vector functions, the convergence and divergence of sequences and series, as well as Taylor and Maclaurin polynomials.  A student may earn two semesters of college credit in calculus.  Students must have a graphing calculator and must take the national BC Calculus exam at the end of the year.

Prerequisite: Honors Pre-Calculus with a grade of B or above and departmental approval.

Multivariable Calculus (159)                                                                                    Fall Semester; 1/2 Credit

This course deals with the calculus of three-dimensional space.  This in unlike the situation for Calculus AB and BC, which is confined to the plane.  Partial differentiation and multiple integration are the main areas of study.  Due to the abstract nature of the course, students must be willing to make a sustained effort to accomplish all of the assignments.

Prerequisite: BC Calculus

Differential Equations (160)                                                                                 Spring Semester; 1/2 Credit

This course deals with first order differential equations with applications, linear differential equations of higher order and their applications, second order differential equations, differential equations with variable coefficients and LaPlace Transforms.  Due to the abstract nature of the course, students must be willing to make a sustained effort to accomplish all of the assignments.

Prerequisite: BC Calculus

Advanced Placement Statistics (110)                                                                                  Full Year; 1 Credit

This is a college level course and the College Board determines the topics.  This course is primarily for the student who does not wish to take AP Calculus.  It will give students an understanding of the main ideas of statistics and useful skills for working with data.  Students need to have a graphing calculator to allow them to focus on concepts and problem solving rather than on calculations that are automated.  Topics include frequency distributions, means of central tendency and dispersion, discrete and continuous variables, the binomial, normal, student and chi square distributions, the central limit theory, statistical inference, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, linear regression and correlation.

Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus or B+ or higher in Algebra II

COMPUTER SCIENCE

We believe it is essential to equip student with the tools necessary to function in a technology-based society.  As they use the computer and other technologies, they must also demonstrate ethical behavior.  At The Benjamin School, our curriculum is created with the thought that each computer student’s learning should extend well beyond simple keyboarding, word processing, and other simple computer functions that do not fully expose and develop the true creativity of the student.  To say that our curriculum is complete is to suggest that technology never changes, and that is obviously not the case.  We will continue to evolve our curriculum and equipment using industry and educational advances as the model. With that being said, it is our mission to see that students have every opportunity to take advantage of the present technology, utilize educational software across all subject matters, develop or improve internet research skills, and become independent users of future technologies.

The Benjamin Upper School offers four courses: Applications A (Microsoft Office package) and B (Flash MX), Computer Programming (Mastering Visual Basic/Intro to JAVA), Advanced Placement Computer Science sections A and AB ( JAVA), Advanced Computers (Java Script, Flash /ActionScript, ASP, SQL), and Independent Study. 

Every student is required to have one semester of computer courses in the Benjamin Upper School but also has the opportunity of taking additional advanced courses once the minimal requirement has been met. 

Computer Applications A (550)                                                      One Semester (Fall or Spring); ½ Credit

Students will be able to perform certain functions in Excel, Access, PowerPoint and Word, such as creating documents by formatting both text and paragraphs, as well as adding borders and shading, numbered and lettered outlines, symbol and picture bullets, applying various page and section breaks, and adding headers and footers to create projects such as newsletters, reports, announcements, business letters, presentations, and spreadsheets.  We encourage students to take weekly typing lessons either to improve their speed to 35 words per minute with 95% accuracy, or to increase their current words per minute speed by 10 words by the end of the semester. 

Computer Applications B (551)                                                      One Semester (Fall or Spring): ½ Credit

Students will create dynamic animations and graphics for the Web using Macromedia Flash MX. Students will also learn important Flash MX skills such as using symbols and tweening, using vector-based content for faster downloads, and optimizing animations for the Web. This class will introduce programming concepts using ActionScript.

Computer Programming (552)                                                                                          Full Year: 1 Credit

Students will be able to create application programs in Visual Basic using Forms, Labels, List Boxes, Textboxes, Command Buttons, Combo Boxes, Variables with Constants, Repetition Statements, Picture and Image Controls, Logical Expressions, Arrays, String Manipulation, Menus with Pop Up Menus, created Toolbars, File Streams and Data Connections. The course will also introduce students to Object Oriented Programming using Java.

AP Computer Science (503)                                                                                              Full Year: 1 Credit

In preparation for the Advanced Placement Exam, students will be able to create applications in JAVA using Functions, Conditional Statements, Files and Arrays, Structs and Classes, as well as Data Structures. 

Advanced Computers  (553                                                                                               Full Year: 1 Credit

These courses are developed for the students who have completed the above courses and wish to continue their education in computer science.  After considering the potential student’s desire, capability, and interest, the teacher and the student will decide what the course work will include. 

SCIENCE

In light of the growing importance of technology as a determining factor in modern living, an understanding of the fundamental principles and practices of a wide range of scientific disciplines is essential. The ability to assess critically the methods, risks, worth, and advisability of current and future technological options is becoming more and more essential to responsible and engaged citizenship and to a successful life.

In view of these developing needs, the science program at The Benjamin School has provided a detailed study of the major scientific streams (biology, chemistry, and physics) as well as introductory exposure to several elective options (for example, Marine Biology, Environmental Sciences, Genetics, Human Physiology and Anatomy, and Human Ecology).

The science program employs a wide range of teaching devices and methods designed to appeal to multiple learning styles. Laboratory experiments, field trips, oral presentations, and semester projects are important components of many science courses. Computer simulations, appropriate subscription websites, and audio/visual presentations expose students to concepts from a variety of points of view.  Assessments include tests, quizzes, graded homework assignments, lab reports, and smaller special projects. Since the principle mission of the school is college preparation, the department maintains rigorous academic standards.

Although students must complete three credits in science which must include courses in biology, chemistry, and physics, they are encouraged to take a fourth year of study in this discipline..

Biology (213) and Honors Biology (214)                                                                            Full Year; 1 Credit

These courses offer an in-depth focus on biological principles at the following levels: molecular and cellular, evolution and phylogeny, and ecology. Emphasis is on laboratory experiments, small special projects, and field studies to develop and elucidate major concepts. The honors course explores these topics in greater depth.

Prerequisite: 8th Grade Science for Biology.  The recommendation of the prior teacher for Honors Biology.

Chemistry (224) and Honors Chemistry (227)                                                                   Full Year; 1 Credit

These courses provide an introduction to the nature and combinations of matter: sub-atomic to molecules and compounds. Students also study stoichiometry, pH, and inorganic and organic compounds.  Laboratory sessions, spreadsheet analysis, and computer simulations are important tools for actualizing the principles of chemistry and for allowing “what if” inquiries. The honors course explores these topics in greater depth. The students will do a research project in this course.

Prerequisite: For Chemistry 224: successful completion of Biology and Algebra I (grade of C or higher); for Chemistry 227: successful completion of Biology, Algebra I (grade of B or higher) and recommendation of Biology teacher.

Physics (235) and Honors Physics (237)                                                                             Full Year; 1 Credit

These courses present a study of the theories and laws governing the interaction of matter, energy, and the forces of nature. Subjects include measurements, kinematics, energy, power, sound, heat, wave characteristics, light, electricity, and magnetism. Demonstrations, laboratory exercises, and computer simulations allow exploration, amplification and reinforcement of the course contents.  The honors course explores these topics in greater depth.

Prerequisite: Chemistry and Algebra II. Additionally students wishing to be in the honors section need to have the recommendation of their chemistry teacher.

Advanced Placement Biology (203)                                                                                   Full Year; 1 Credit

This course follows the topics and depth of study required by the Advanced Placement Examination in Biology. The syllabus includes laboratory, field and computer explorations. Participating students must read the first five chapters in the textbook before returning to school in August. Aimed at preparing students for the advanced placement examination, the course will include lectures, discussions, and usually one block laboratory session weekly. Students will need to do dissection of plants and animals.

Prerequisite: Successful completion of biology and chemistry is required (Honors courses are recommended), and permission of the course instructor are required.

Advanced Placement Chemistry (204)                                                                               Full Year; 1 Credit

Following the topics and depth of study required by the Advanced Placement Exam, this course is the equivalent of the general chemistry course taken during the first college year. The emphasis is on chemical calculations and the mathematical formulation of principles. Aimed at preparing the student for the AP exam, the course includes lectures, discussions and lab sessions appropriate to the course.

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Chemistry (Honors Chemistry is recommended), Algebra II and permission of the course instructor.

Advanced Placement Physics (205)                                                                                   Full Year; 1 Credit

This course follows the topics and depth of study required by the Advanced Placement Examination in Physics. A study of calculus-based classical Physics with emphasis on mechanics and periodic motion, the course aims to prepare students for the Advanced Placement Physics C (Mechanics) examination. It includes lectures, problem solving sessions, lab experiments and computer-assisted simulations.

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Physics and Pre-Calculus are required (Honors Physics is recommended), and permission of the course instructor are required.

Anatomy and Physiology (272)                                                                              Spring Semester; ½ Credit

This course is an intensive introduction to human anatomy and physiology, emphasizing how higher animals, including Homo sapiens, are structured in relation to their function. To that end you will study the biochemical, cellular, and organ systems that influence, limit, and control the human species. Systems topics include skeletomuscular, cardiovascular, neuroendocrine, and reproductive which students will explore through lectures, discussions, labs, and field trips. Students will complete a research project.

Prerequisite: Biology and Chemistry.

Environmental Science (260)                                                                                              Full Year; 1 Credit

This is a wide-ranging course addressing the principles, concepts and methodology necessary for an understanding of the inter-relationships of the natural world; to examine important current environmental problems (for example, energy depletion; air and water pollution; loss of biodiversity, over-population; nuclear waste disposal, and global warming); to evaluate the risks associated with these and other problems; and to examine alternative proposals or efforts to solve or prevent these problems. This is a multidisciplinary course involving science, math, statistics, sociology, politics, and economics.

Prerequisite: Biology

Genetics (271)                                                                                                            Fall Semester; ½ Credit

An intensive introduction to the study of inheritance, this course will include the study of Mendelian Genetics, the molecular basis of inheritance, and the genetics of development, behavior, and cancer. Students will have to complete a research project.

Prerequisite: Biology and Chemistry.

Human Ecology (240)                                                                       One Semester(Fall or Spring); ½ Credit

This course focuses on scientific principles related to such topics as: nutrition, mental health, avoidance of disease and drug abuse, and first aid. Experiments and field trips provide amplification on these topics. Lectures, laboratory and field trips will all be part of an open, student-initiated teaching mode.  Students will have to complete research papers.

Prerequisite: Biology

Marine Biology (259)                                                                                                          Full Year; 1 Credit

This course offers an intensive introduction to the major marine environments, the principle species (by taxonomic grouping and by ecological relationships), and the interaction between organisms and their biotic and a biotic environments. Student-maintained aquaria, laboratory experiments, and field trips supplement class studies. Students can expect required summer reading and a research project.

Prerequisite: Biology and Chemistry.

Philosophy of Science (261)                                                                            One Semester (Fall); ½ Credit

This is a survey course covering the central issues of the philosophy of science. Subjects to be examined will include Science vs. Pseudoscience; Laws, Theories, and Explanations; Models and Analogies in Science; Theory of the Scientific Method; Probability Logic vs. Inductive Logic; Miracles vs. Natural Order; Science, Religion and Atheism; Causality; Cosmology; Heisenberg Uncertainty Relationships; and Decisive Experiments and Verification of Hypotheses. The course will consist mainly of readings, class discussions, and written critical analyses.

Prerequisite: Chemistry

Advanced Research in Science (262)                                                      One Semester (Spring); ½ Credit

This course is an intensive introduction to the logic, methods, and pitfalls of independent scientific research. The course will cover topics including literature searching, measurement techniques, design of experiments, recordkeeping, error analysis, mathematical modeling and analysis, sampling and statistics, observational versus qualitative versus quantitative data acquisition, and presentation of results. Students will develop a suitable research project for presentation at the end of the course. The course may include collaboration with other nearby educational facilities.

Prerequisite: One year of Science and approval of the instructor.

SOCIAL STUDIES

“Social studies is the integrated study of the social sciences and humanities to promote civic competence.” (National Council of the Social Studies)   At The Benjamin School the Social Studies Department provides coordinated and systematic study drawing upon such disciplines as economics, geography, history, philosophy, and, political science.

Through the study of social studies students examine both continuity and change. The social studies curriculum builds on four capacities.  First, students learn to amass disciplinary knowledge.  Without a sound subject matter foundation, understanding and analysis are impossible.  Second, students develop thinking and writing skills enabling them to be successful in both college and in life.  Third, students learn respect for the underlying values of a democratic society and for cultural diversity.  Fourth, students become active participants in civic life.  They are informed about public affairs, they uphold the rule of law, and they participate in government.

Historians attempt to find patterns and to determine meaning through the rigorous study of the past.  Virtually all the experiences of mankind fall within the reach of the social studies.  Every subject has a history and can be examined through the historical perspective.  The study of the social sciences is fun.

Although students must take three years of social studies for graduation, they are encouraged to take a full four years of study in this discipline..  Most students take World History in grade 9, Introduction to Economics and Government in the 10^th grade, and American History in the 11^th grade, leaving the senior year open for electives.  Students who are particularly interested in the social studies may take more than one class per year. 

World History (313)                                                                                                            Full Year; 1 Credit

World History surveys the development of Western Europe from the Renaissance to the twentieth century.  The course helps students understand the origins of western government, philosophy, economics and social issues.  It includes units of study such as absolutism, revolution, industrialism, imperialism and world war.  In addition, the course briefly examines the growth of civilizations in Middle East.  It gives considerable attention to the teaching of study skills and the effective usage of the laptop computer. Students will do a research paper. 

Prerequisite: None

Introduction to Economics (326)                                                    One Semester (Fall and Spring); ½ Credit

This course is a basic introduction to economic thinking.  Some concepts investigated include supply and demand, economic systems, the role of business and the labor force, monetary fiscal policy, and institutions that help to develop and mold our modern economy.  The curriculum also emphasizes current events, economic history, and the role of globalization. The teachers pay particular attention to the development of writing, research, analysis, discussion and debate skills.

Prerequisite: None

Introduction to Government (325)                                                 One Semester (Fall and Spring); ½ Credit

This course is an introduction to the basic principles and institutions of our government.  We investigate theories of government, individual rights, elections, Congress, the presidency, and the court system.  The students discuss, debate and analyze current events and contemporary issues. Skills emphasized include writing, research, debate, discussion and group work.  The teachers encourage their students to be engaged citizens and to take an active part in our democracy.

Prerequisite: None

United States History (323)                                                                                                 Full Year; 1 Credit

This study of America’s past from the colonial period through the present will provide students the opportunity to acquire a deep understanding of how difficult it is to preserve civilization and to improve society.  Students will recognize America’s changing role as a world power and learn how that role has affected the character of American democracy.  Most Benjamin students select this course in the eleventh grade.

Prerequisite: None

A History of Florida and the Caribbean Islands (365)                   One Semester (Fall and Spring); ½ Credit

A History of Florida and the Caribbean Islands is a one-semester course designed to help students gain an understanding of the roots, the development, and the nature of Floridian and Caribbean civilization.  Students will study the political, economic, and social issues of the region.   The gathering and analysis of evidence will culminate in a required research project.  Required field trips to locations in Florida will take place outside the normal school day on afternoons and weekends.  An optional on site visit in the Caribbean may be offered.

Prerequisite: None

Classical Civilizations (316)                                                                     One Semester (Spring); ½ Credit

This one-semester course examines the roots of Western civilization.  Students will describe and compare the political, cultural, military, and economic contributions of the ancient Greeks and the ancient Romans.  Students will keep an organized notebook, write a research paper, and respond to both short answer and essay questions.

Prerequisite: None

The World Since 1945 (321)                                                    One Semester (Fall or Spring TBA); ½ Credit

This one-semester course surveys the political, social, and economic changes of the modern world.  Major themes include: post war prosperity, the Cold War, the civil rights movement, the war in Vietnam, the upheavals of the 1960s, the development of the Third World, the fall of communism.  The class will examine films and documents to chronicle these many changes. 

Prerequisite: U.S. History and World History

Comparative Religion (363)                                                                         One Semester (Spring); ½ Credit

This course examines the main religions of Christianity, Protestantism and Catholicism, Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, Taoism, Confucianism, Buddhism and Shintoism.  Students will examine secondary and primary sources to understand and compare basic religious tenets including the notion of higher power, sacred texts, moral codes, afterlife and prescribed behavior.  The class will take trips to religious centers and listen to speakers from the various religions.  Students will look at religious beliefs with objectivity and balance.  The course is open to all students after their freshman year.

Prerequisite: None

Current Events (358)                                                                     One Semester (Fall and Spring); ½ Credit

Current Events introduces the student to the major issues in American society.  Students will study society, one’s role in it, issues and problems, possible social change, and current social movements.  It includes a study of basic institutions including the family, community, political, and social organization.  This is a senior elective requiring position papers, debates and strong class participation. 

Prerequisite: U.S. History

Introduction to Psychology (350)                                                                     One Semester (Fall); ½ Credit

This one-semester course in psychology focuses on the study of human behavior.  Topics of study include sensation and perception; the brain, memory and learning; emotion and motivation; abnormal behavior; and personality theory.  The course pays considerable attention the methodology of psychology including case study, survey, and observation.  In addition, the course examines careers in psychology.  The course is open to all students after their freshman year.

African/Asian Studies  (368)                                                                         One Semester (Spring); ½ Credit

African/Asian Studies is a one-semester elective that focuses on the history, geography, politics and culture of Africa and of Asia.  Students will discuss contemporary issues and analyze primary source material.  The course will focus on some of the following areas: Middle East, China, Japan, Vietnam, Kenya, Nigeria, Mali, and South Africa. This course is highly recommended to students who plan to major in history in college.

AP U. S. Government (304)                                                                              One Semester (Fall); ½ Credit

AP Government is a course in preparation for the national AP Government and Politics Exam.  The course investigates the founding principles of our government, the Constitution as a framework, civil liberties and civil rights, fundamental institutions (Congress, the Presidency, and Supreme Court), public opinion, elections, political parties, interest groups, the media, and public policy.  This is a highly demanding course that requires extensive reading and writing and the permission of the instructor.  All students are required to take the AP exam in the spring.

Prerequisites: permission of the teacher.  Because of the rigorous nature of the course, the department recommends that students have a B+ in previous Social Studies classes, 3.33 GPA, excellent writing skills.

AP Comparative Government and Politics (306)                                        One Semester (Spring); ½ Credit

AP Comparative Government is a one-semester counterpart to AP American Politics.  It will provide students with the conceptual tools necessary to develop an understanding of some of the world’s diverse political structures and practices.  Five themes (legitimacy, political framework, society, the citizen, and political change) will be applied to the governments of Great Britain, France, China, the former Soviet Union and a third world nation). In addition, the class will analyze the methodology associated with the study of comparative politics.  Students should anticipate college-level readings, essay writing, and discussion.  The course is open to juniors, seniors, and select sophomores. All students are required to take the AP exam in the spring.

Prerequisites: permission of the teacher.  Because of the rigorous nature of the course, the department recommends that students have a B+ in previous Social Studies classes, 3.33 GPA, excellent writing skills.

AP Economics (301)                                                                                                            Full Year; 1 Credit

This elective is open to juniors, seniors and select sophomores.  AP Economics is a two-semester course designed to help students develop critical thinking skills through the understanding, application, and analysis of economic concepts.  In the 1^st semester, students examine microeconomic concepts such as scarcity, supply & demand, the theory of the firm, and resource markets.  The second semester reviews macroeconomic issues such as unemployment, inflation, national income accounting, monetary policy, and fiscal policy.  Student assessments will include multiple choice tests, free response questions, oral presentations, graphing, notebook, and class participation.  All students must take the AP exam in the spring. 

Prerequisites: permission of the teacher.  Because of the rigorous nature of the course, the department recommends that students have a B+ in previous Social Studies classes, 3.33 GPA, excellent writing skills.

AP European History (305)                                                                                                 Full Year; 1 Credit

An elective open to juniors, seniors and select sophomores, AP European History is a survey of European history from the Renaissance to the present.  In addition to providing a basic narrative of events and movements, the goals of AP European history are to develop an understanding of some of the principal themes in modern European history, an ability to analyze historical evidence, and an ability to analyze and to express historical understanding in writing.  The text was written for college students, and the course is structured along the line of a college-level course.  Multiple-choice tests, free response essays, document-based essays, oral presentations, notebook, and class participation will be the basis of evaluation.  All students will take the AP exam in the spring.

Prerequisites: permission of the teacher.  Because of the rigorous nature of the course, the department recommends that students have a B+ in previous Social Studies classes, 3.33 GPA, excellent writing skills.

AP U. S. History (303)                                                                                                         Full Year; 1 Credit

AP US History is a college survey of United States History from exploration through the Reagan administration.  With the permission of the instructor, juniors and seniors who wish to earn college credit while in high school may enroll.  (In exceptional cases, select sophomores may receive permission to take the course.)  Students should expect to spend from five to seven hours per week on preparation for the course.  Students should have an interest in history and have the ability to develop independent study habits.  The students will complete two research papers– one topic selected by the instructor, one selected by the student.  The course will utilize many primary sources and will also take into consideration differing views of US History.  All students must take the Advance Placement Test in May. 

Prerequisites: permission of the teacher.  Because of the rigorous nature of the course, the department recommends that students have a B+ in previous Social Studies classes, 3.33 GPA, excellent writing skills.

FOREIGN LANGUAGE

The study of a foreign language is no longer simply an academic matter.   In the twenty-first century, it is imperative that our students be experienced in other languages and cultures beyond their own.  Communication is vital in our global society, whether through technology or through human contact and it is the school’s philosophy to introduce a new language to students at the earliest possible age.  It is the mission of the Upper School to educate students to their highest capability in their chosen language, enabling them to communicate with native speakers, to read materials written in the language, and to appreciate better the many cultures of people living elsewhere in the world.

Generally speaking, our foreign language courses are sequential in nature. Once students have established a language path, they follow it to the next course, unless selected for an honors section. The level of achievement attained in the prerequisite course and the teacher’s recommendation determines the enrollment in an honors class.  Native speakers and students demonstrating a strong ability in their language study will advance more quickly through the language curriculum, and the School encourages them to study the other foreign language, graduating with a background in both French and Spanish.  Native speakers usually take the AP Language course in their junior year followed by the AP Literature course in their senior year. 

Students enter The Benjamin Upper School with varying levels of experience in foreign language study.  Some new students may never have studied a language other than their own, while others may have taken either beginning or advanced courses.  Some freshmen may enter into the level III course due to their prior preparation while others may enter into level I or II as their experience dictates.  It is the department’s goal to take the students from the level at which they arrive and challenge them to their highest possible level of proficiency.  Thus, students enroll in courses in the Foreign Language Department not on the basis of grade level, but on their proficiency in the target language.

To meet the foreign language graduation requirement, students must take three sequential years of a language in the Upper School regardless of how many years they have had in the Middle School.  We also encourage seniors to pursue one of the advanced courses offered to them.

French Courses

French I (496)                                                                                                                       Full Year, 1 credit

This course is for the high school student who is beginning the study of a foreign languge for the first time or for one who did not demonstrate strong achievement in a previous beginning level course.  Students begin building basic vocabulary related to people, places, and activities that are familiar in their own lives, while also learning basic grammar and simple sentence structure. The class materials encourage aural/oral comprehension and assist students in attaining a beginning level of proficiency in speaking, listening, reading and writing in French.  Students will begin to keep a verb notebook.

Prerequisite: no prior experience or weak achievement in a prior beginning level course

French II (492)                                                                                                                      Full Year, 1 credit

This course further develops the second year language student’s ability to communicate in the target language and to apply the vocabulary and grammatical concepts learned in the previous level. The primary goals are to strengthen the listening, speaking, reading and writing skills and to provide the students with an opportunity to use those skills on a daily basis, using a variety of basic verb tenses in order to express themselves in class discussions of common topics presented in course materials.  Students acquire basic historical, cultural and geographical knowledge of France in the target language and do an extensive study of Paris.  Throughout the year students will maintain a verb notebook which will be continued through level III.

Prerequisite:  Grade of C or higher in High School French I or Middle School equivalent

French III   (493)                                                                                                                  Full Year, 1 credit

This course further strengthens the developing skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing in French at a fundamental level. Students will complete À bord and will present dialogues related to topics studied in the text as well as maintain their verb notebook throughout the year.  They will study certain periods of French history and various châteaux of France, via group and individual research projects of the Loire Valley.   Each student must research a château of the region, write a term paper in French about it, and present it to the class in French using multi-media technology, speaking as a castle guide.

Prerequisite:  Grade of C or higher in French II or department recommendation. 

French III Honors (479)                                                                                                       Full Year, 1 credit

This course further strengthens fundamentals and increases proficiency in the developing skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing in French.  Students will complete À bord and will present dialogues related to topics studied in the text as well as maintain their verb notebook throughout the year.  They will study certain periods of French history and various châteaux of France, via group and individual research projects of the Loire Valley.  Each student must research a château of the region, write a term paper in French about it, and present it to the class using multi-media technology, speaking from the perspective of someone who once lived in the castle.  Supplemental readings from the Graded French Reader will enhance vocabulary and offer the honors students an introduction to French literature.  Students must be recommended by their previous French teacher in order to take this honors class.

Prerequisite: Grade of B+ or higher in French II and department consent.

French IV  (494)                                                                                                                    Full Year, 1 credit

This course increases aural-oral proficiency and continues the development of the student’s communication skills.  The study of advanced grammar concepts and expanded vocabulary will enhance reading comprehension and writing skills.  Reading selections from French authors gives a deeper insight into French civilization, culture, literature and art.  Students will study the Impressionist movement in detail and an assigned artist in particular.  They will research the artist, present an oral project to the class, and submit a written term paper about the artist and all notable works.  They will also complete their verb notebook this year.

Prerequisite: Grade of C or higher in French III or department consent.

French IV Honors  (478)                                                                                                      Full Year, 1 credit

This course increases aural-oral proficiency and continues the development of the student’s communication skills.  The study of advanced grammar concepts and expanded vocabulary will enhance reading comprehension and writing skills.  Reading selections from French authors give a deeper insight into French civilization, culture, literature and art.  Students will study the Impressionist movement in detail and an assigned artist in particular.  They will research the artist, present an oral project to the class, and submit a written term paper about the artist and all notable works. They will also complete their verb notebook this year.  Students must be recommended by their previous French teacher in order to take this honors class. 

Prerequisite: Grade of B+ or higher in French III Honors and department consent.

French V Honors (495)                                                                                                         Full Year, 1 credit

This advanced French course is for the students who wish to strengthen their skills of communication in the French language and are ready to apply their abilities in a wide variety of subjects.  This pre-AP level course enables students to improve conversational skills through classroom discussions, oral presentations, debates, dialogues, and listening comprehension exercises from a variety of native speakers.  The course includes a comprehensive study of France: its geography, economy, literature, the most important people and events from prehistoric times through the eighteenth century, and other aspects of French culture.  It is recommended that French V Honors students take the SAT II exam in French language in June.

Prerequisite: Grade of B or higher in French IV Honors and department consent

AP French Language (409)                                                                                                   Full Year, 1 credit

This course is an advanced level French program for students who have mastered the fundamentals of the French language and are able to apply their ability in a wide variety of subject areas.  French AP Language is comparable to a second-year college course and requires much commitment and effort.  The course emphasizes intense assessment of the four communications skills, strengthening and fine-tuning through a variety of grammatical, writing, reading, listening comprehension and conversational activities.  Reading selections from famous French and Francophone poetry, novels, and drama give the student deeper insight into Francophone civilizations and the culture of French-speaking people.  It is recommended that AP students take the French SAT II exam during the year if they have not already done so.  This is an honors course to prepare students to take the Advanced Placement Examination in French Language in May, and all students must be recommended by their previous French teacher in order to take it.

Prerequisite: Grade of B or higher in French IV H and department consent

French VI: Culture et Civilisation Francophone (450)                                              Full Year; 1 credit

The French VI course  is offered to students who have successfully completed French V and do not wish to take the AP language course.  The goal is to provide to the students the opportunity to work on their oral fluency and reading comprehension, to be introduced to the methods of literature analysis in French and to continue to enrich their knowledge of the French culture and civilization. They will have the opportunity to work on their oral fluency.

This program will be less formal than the AP course; the focus will be in the appreciation of the language based on its use in the daily life rather than the technical aspects and rules of French grammar and syntax required by the AP course.  Students will read texts collected from newspapers, magazines, 19^th century and contemporary literature and poetry according to the themes that will be discussed in class. Movies and music will be part of the program, and  students will write papers. Debates will be organized in class during which students will share opinions and discuss various topics.  Students will be graded on vocabulary quizzes, essays and oral presentations.

Prerequisite: Completion of French V and department consent

Spanish Courses

Spanish I (466)                                                                                                                      Full Year; 1 credit

This course is for the high school student who is beginning the study of a second language or for one who did not demonstrate strong achievement in a previous beginning level course.  Students begin building basic vocabulary related to people, places and activities that are familiar in their own lives, while also learning basic grammar and simple sentence structure.  The class materials encourage aural/oral comprehension and assist students in attaining a beginning level of proficiency in speaking, listening, reading and writing in Spanish.  Students will begin to keep a verb notebook.

Prerequisite:  no prior experience or weak achievement in a beginning level course

Spanish II (462)                                                                                                                    Full Year; 1 credit

This course further develops the second year language student’s abilities to communicate in the target language and to apply the vocabulary and grammatical concepts learned in the previous level.  The primary goals are to strengthen the listening, speaking, reading and writing skills and to provide the students with an opportunity to use those skills on a daily basis, using a variety of basic verb tenses in order to express themselves in class discussions of common topics in course materials.  Students acquire basic historical, cultural and geographical knowledge of Hispanic countries in the target language.  Throughout the year, students will maintain a verb notebook which will be continued through level III. 

Prerequisite:    Grade of C or higher in High School Spanish 1 or Middle School equivalent

Spanish III (463)                                                                                                                   Full Year; 1 credit

This course further strengthens fundamentals and increases proficiency in the developing skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing in Spanish. Students will complete Abordo and will present dialogues related to the topics studied in the text, as well as maintain a verb notebook throughout the year.  Students will gain a deeper insight into Hispanic cultures through cultural readings and supplemental materials provided by the teacher.

Prerequisite: Grade of C or higher in Spanish II or department consent.

Spanish III Honors  (476)                                                                                                     Full Year; 1 credit

This course further strengthens fundamentals and increases proficiency in the developing skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing in Spanish.  Students will complete the Abordo series and will present dialogues related to the topics studied in the text, as well as maintain a verb notebook throughout the year.  Spanish III Honors students will begin their study of Spanish literature by reading Don Quixote and preparing many related papers and presentations.  Students will keep a journal during the second semester to further enhance writing skills.  Students must be recommended by their previous Spanish teacher in order to take this honors course.

Prerequisite: Grade of B+ or higher in Spanish II and department consent.

Spanish IV  (464)                                                                                                                  Full Year; 1 credit

This course increases aural-oral proficiency and continues the development of the student’s communication skills.  The study of advanced grammar concepts and expanded vocabulary will enhance reading comprehension and writing skills.  Students learn about the geography and culture of Spain through an in-depth study that incorporates written and oral projects. 

Prerequisite: Grade of C or higher in Spanish III or department consent.

Spanish IV Honors  (477)                                                                                                     Full Year; 1 credit

This course increases aural-oral proficiency and continues the development of the student’s communic-ation skills.  The study of advanced grammar concepts and expanded vocabulary will enhance reading comprehension and writing skills.  Students will learn about the geography and history of Spain through an in-depth study that incorporates written and oral projects.  Reading selections from famous Spanish authors will give the Spanish IV Honors student a deeper insight into Hispanic civilization. Students must be recommended by their previous Spanish teacher in order to take this honors class.

Prerequisite: Grade of B+ or higher in Spanish III Honors or department consent

Spanish V (467)                                                                                                                     Full Year; 1 credit

This advanced Spanish course is for the students who wish to strengthen their conversation and composition skills but do not wish to pursue the rigorous grammatical studies of the Spanish AP.  This course will allow the students to increase conversational skills through dialogues and readings on daily living.  Spanish V emphasizes intensive oral practice and vocabulary building.  The writing of essays, keeping weekly journals, and letter writing enhance the grammar application skills.  Reading selections from famous Spanish works will give the students a deeper insight into Hispanic civilization and the culture of Spanish-speaking people.  In addition, students will complete an in-depth unit on Spanish history, including a written and oral project on a selected period of Spanish history.    

Prerequisite:  Grade of C+ in Spanish IV, Spanish IV Honors, or department consent

Spanish V Honors (465)                                                                                                        Full Year; 1 credit

This advanced Spanish course is for the students who wish to strengthen their communication skills in the Spanish language.  This pre-AP level course will allow the students to increase conversational skills through dialogues and readings on daily living.  The course emphasizes intensive oral practice and vocabulary building.  The writing of essays, keeping weekly journals, and letter writing enhance advanced composition skills.  Reading selections from famous Spanish works will give the students a deeper insight into Hispanic civilization and the culture of Spanish-speaking people.  In addition, students will complete an in-depth unit on Spanish history, including a written and oral project on a selected period of Spanish history.  It is recommended that Spanish V students take the Spanish SAT II exam upon completion of the course.  Students must be recommended by their previous Spanish teacher in order to take this honors course.

Prerequisite:  Grade of B+ in Spanish IV or Spanish IV Honors and department consent

Spanish AP Language (406)                                                                                                 Full Year; 1 credit

This course is an advanced level Spanish program for the students who have mastered the fundamentals of the Spanish language and are now ready to apply their ability in a wide variety of subject areas.  Spanish AP Language is comparable to a second-year college course and requires much commitment and effort.  The course emphasizes the four skills that are strengthened and fine-tuned through a variety of grammatical, writing, reading, listening comprehension, and conversational activities.  Reading selections from famous Spanish and Latin American poetry, novels, and drama will give the students a deeper insight into Hispanic civilization and the culture of Spanish-speaking people.  It is recommended that AP students take the Spanish SAT II exam during the year, if they have not already done so.  This course will prepare students to take the Advanced Placement Examination in Spanish Language in May.  Students must have the recommendation from their previous Spanish teacher in order to take this course. 

Prerequisite:  Grade of B in Spanish IV Honors, Spanish V and department consent

Spanish AP Literature (407)                                                                                                 Full Year; 1 credit

This course is a challenging, independent study program designed to prepare the advanced Spanish student to understand lectures in Spanish and to participate actively in literary discussions in Spanish; to perform a close reading of modern Hispanic literary texts in all genres; and to analyze the form and content of literary works, both orally and in writing, using appropriate terminology.  This program replaces the equivalent of a third-year college “Introduction to Hispanic Literature” course, covering selected works from the literatures of Spain and Spanish America.  Upon conclusion of this course, the student should be prepared for the AP Spanish Literature Examination in May.

Prerequisite:  Spanish AP Language or permission of the teacher

FINE ARTS

It is the philosophy of the Fine Arts faculty to develop in our Benjamin students a lasting involvement with and enjoyment of the arts, in the hope that the creativity generated through participation will be integrated into their lives.  For the student who wishes to explore or develop his or her talents in the arts, the Benjamin Upper School offers a range of classes and extracurricular activities in drawing, visual design, photography, computer graphics, dance, drama, music (vocal and instrumental) and multimedia. Students have many opportunities to display their work either in school-related functions and concerts, as well as outside opportunities.  All courses make use of audio-visual materials, lectures, and demonstrations as an aid to a fuller understanding of techniques and methods. 

Students must take 1 credit in Fine Arts (Performing or Visual) during their 4 years of high school.

VISUAL ARTS

Studio Art

2-D Design (665)                                                                                               One Semester (Fall); ½ Credit

An introduction to the basic concepts of 2-dimensional design: line, shape, space, hue, value and texture, this course uses various media in a variety of problem-solving projects leading toward an awareness of the principles of visual organization. Emphasis is on media, concepts, drawing from observation, and development of technique. 

3-D Design (666)                                                                                          One Semester (Spring); ½ Credit
In this course students will learn various traditional and contemporary sculpture techniques including clay modeling, mold making, and simple fabrication using wood and metal. Through individual hands-on projects, they explore three-dimensional form through a process that includes sketching, model making, and the use of a variety of tools. Students will develop the skills of critical evaluation in critique sessions and class discussions, and they will also explore historical references and antecedents through the use of audio-visual materials.

Advanced Ceramics (668)                                                                            One Semester (Spring); ½ Credit

This course is intended for students who have excelled in 3-D design and wish to continue to work with clay as a medium for pottery and sculpture. Emphasis will be placed on problem solving related to both form and surface treatment. Students will focus on design and execution. They will concentrate more on the development of a specific project or body of work. Demonstrations, discussions and critiques will be directly related to the needs of students in the class.

Prerequsite: 3D Design

Illustration (603)                                                                                               One Semester (Fall); ½ Credit

This course deals with creating illustrations and developing an illustrational vocabulary. The direct relationship among concept, technique and execution in creating an illustration will receive special emphasis. The class will also investigate the processes of drawing as they relate to illustration. Students learn to exaggerate, distort, and manipulate visual elements to create drama, mood, character, and situation.

Portfolio (605)                                                                                                                      Full Year; 1 Credit

This course will help students to develop their artistic skills and abilities beyond the intermediate level. They will focus on an area of concentration selected by the students and their teacher, such as oil or acrylic painting, clay modeling, or block printing. The course emphasizes mastery of specific competencies for the area of concentration. In most cases, students will have a sufficient compilation of work to be eligible to submit a portfolio for advanced placement credit upon completion of this course. Students may repeat Portfolio for credit with a concentration in a different area with the consent of the instructor.     

Prerequisite: 2-D Design is a prerequisite for Portfolio.  Students must also have the teacher’s permission.

AP Art (606)                                                                                                                        Full Year; 1 Credit

The AP course will enable highly motivated art students to acquire college art credit. Students work under the guidance of an instructor to develop a portfolio for submission to the College Board at the end of the school year.

Prerequisite: Portfolio is recommended for AP.  Students must also have the teacher’s permission.

Art History

Art History and Appreciation                                                                           One Semester (Fall); ½ Credit

Students will read and study from the book Essential History of Art.  This book covers such topics as primitive art, the middle ages, Renaissance, and Modern Art.  Along with studying art and its effects on our society, students will investigate various artists and learn about their "history". The course basically consists of reading the texts, oral and written reports and critiquing artwork.  Each nine weeks students will also deal with a studio assignment in ceramics, sculpture, painting and textiles. This semester course focuses on prehistoric art, ancient art, art from the Middle Ages, Renaissance art, 17th to 19^th century art and early 20th to later 20^th century art as well as non-European art.

Computer Graphics

Introduction to Computer Graphics                                                               One Semester (Fall); ½ Credit

Using Adobe Illustrator (608)

This survey course combines studio work with academic classroom instruction.  It incorporates fundamental components of design theory with problem definition to provide students with valuable experience in the ideation, execution, and presentation of projects. Students use creative thinking to solve communication problems. The course introduces students to the principles and techniques of digital design using a broad range of tool sets from various computer applications. 

Introduction to Computer Graphics                                                             One Semester (Spring); ½ Credit

Using Photoshop (609)

This course is an introduction to photographic image modification through the use of computer technology (a digital darkroom). Topics include the use of scanners and other input devices, image editing software, various output options, as well as the commercial and aesthetic potential and application of digital imagery.

3D Computer Animation (610)                                                                     One Semester (Spring); ½ Credit

This survey course combines studio work with academic classroom instruction. It incorporates fundamental components of design theory with problem definition to provide students with valuable experience in the ideation, execution, and presentation of projects. Students use creative thinking to solve communication problems and will learn how to model 3D objects and create short animations in a virtual environment.

Advanced Computer Graphics (611)                                                                                   Full Year; 1 Credit

Advanced Computer Graphics will be an independent study in which the students continue to improve their critical thinking and technical skills. The students will work within specified guidelines and deadlines indicated by the instructor.

Prerequisite: Introduction to Computer Graphics and permission of the instructor.

Photography

Introductory Photography (600)                                                     One Semester (Fall and Spring); ½ Credit
Students learn to see photographically through an exploration of the basic tools, techniques and aesthetics of 35 mm black-and-white photography, with special emphasis on the creative use of camera controls, film exposure and development, printmaking, and proper use of chemicals. The course is a combination of lectures, demonstrations, supervised lab work and critiques.

Intermediate Photography (604)                                                                  One Semester (Spring); ½ Credit
This course explores advanced techniques of exposure, development and printing of small- and medium-format black-and-white film and print materials, with special emphasis on tonal control through the creative application of the zone system. This course places increased emphasis on aspects of design, composition, perception and content in black-and-white photographs.

Prerequisite: Introductory Photography

Advanced Photography (607)                                                                           One Semester (Fall); ½ Credit

The focus of this class shifts from technique and skill development to presentation in: shows, contests and a professional portfolio. Students will complete their individual portfolio while developing their artistic skills and abilities. This course continues to instruct students in black and white darkroom photography adding special effects and advanced skills. They are expected to demonstrate their understanding of a wide range of photographic and presentation skills.

PERFORMING ARTS

Multimedia

Video Production I (627)                                           One Semester (Fall and Spring Semesters) ; ½ Credit

The purpose of this course is to provide opportunities to learn elements of video production and visual literacy and to develop skills in all aspects of video production from story boarding to digital video editing to introduction to broadcasting. The format used is all digital (mini DV camcorders) and Apple G5 computers with iMovie and Final Cut Express software.  There will be an emphasis placed on ethical use of support media in production and broadcasting.

Prerequisite: None

Video Production II (626)                                          One Semester (Fall and Spring Semesters); ½ Credit

The purpose of this course is to provide opportunities to use elements of video production and visual literacy and skills acquired in Video Production I to produce regularly broadcast news reports, public service announcements, documentaries, interviews and short movies. The format used is all digital (mini DV camcorders) and Apple G5 computers with iMovie and Final Cut Express software.  There will be an emphasis placed on ethical use of support media in production and broadcasting.

Prerequisite: Video Production I and Approval of the instructor

Music

Concert Band (649)                                                                                                            Full Year; 1 Credit

This year-long course allows students the opportunity to strengthen the skills developed in Lower and Middle School band. The course reinforces fundamentals in music as more difficult orchestration is presented.  Students may add at the beginning of the second semester with the instructor’s approval.

Prerequisite:  Prior experience on an instrument or teacher approval

Chorus (651)                                                                                                                       Full Year; 1 Credit

This year-long course teaches the fundamentals of choral singing.  Special emphasis is put upon developing aural skills, proper breathing technique, sight-singing and the enjoyment of singing.  Students may add at the beginning of the second semester with the instructor’s approval.

Prerequisite:  none

Music Theory (657)                                                                                        One Semester (Spring)½ Credit

This course covers fundamentals in music theory.  Students will study written theory, including form and analysis, harmonic progression and part-writing, and ear-training (rhythmic, melodic, and harmonic dictation). 

Prerequisite:  Basic understanding of written and aural theory and teacher approval.

Piano I / II (658)                                                                            One Semester (Fall and Spring);  ½ Credit

This course allows students to learn basic piano and music theory skills.  Performance skills, music theory, piano technique and musicianship skills will be covered in this course.  More advanced students will be able to further their piano skills and theory knowledge.

Jazz Ensemble (653)                                             One Semester (Fall or Spring) or Full Year; ½ or 1 Credit

This course will focus on the preparation and performance of literature for jazz ensemble.  Students will study jazz literature, jazz chords/harmonies, improvisation techniques and music theory as it applies to jazz.  This is a performance based course.

Pre-Requisite: Junior or Senior, audition/permission of instructor and must be concurrently taking concert band. 

Intro to Music Technology (672)                                                                     One Semester (Fall): ½ credit

This course introduces students to the use of computer software for audio recording, midi sequencing, loop-based recording, basic mixing and editing techniques and plug-ins. This course includes projects using the computer and various recording devices.

Prerequisite: None.

Music Technology II (673)                                                                           One Semester (Spring): ½ credit

This course expands upon the students knowledge of basic recording learned in Intro to Music Technology.  The course also covers basic microphone techniques, signal processing and mixer techniques.  This course includes projects using the computer, various recording devices, microphones, mixers and digital processing equipment. 

Pre-Requisite: Intro to Music Technology

Dance

Dance Technique (699)                                                                                     One Semester (Fall); ½ Credit

This semester course introduces students to the areas of ballet, jazz and tap dance.  Students will learn history, theory and dance vocabulary.  Participation is the key to learning dance.

Prerequisite:  none

Modern Dance and Composition (698)                                                      One Semester (Spring); ½ Credit

This semester course introduces students to an art form which uses the human body and its movement as the art medium.  Students will study choreography and dance composition as well as dance history, theory and vocabulary.

Prerequisite:  none

Drama

Drama (678)                                                                                 One Semester (Spring Semester); ½ Credit

This semester course introduces the various artistic disciplines that create a piece of theatre such as acting, directing, set design, lighting, sound design, costuming, make-up, set construction and theatre history.

Prerequisite:  none

Acting Techniques I (677)                                                               One Semester (Fall Semester); ½ Credit

This semester course is an introduction to basic acting techniques through exercises, which allow students to learn how to use their voice and body to create a character and convey emotions.

Prerequisite:  Drama or teacher approval

Advanced Acting (679)                                                                One Semester (Spring Semester); ½ Credit

This semester course continues the exploration of the craft of acting begun in Acting I with a sharper focus on the evolution of performance styles throughout the history of western theater.  Students will perform or direct scenes from various historical periods. 

Prerequisite:  Acting Techniques I and/or teacher approval

Musical Theatre (674)                                                                     One Semester (Fall Semester); ½ Credit

This semester course provides students with an introduction to Musical Theatre and develops the skills necessary to meet the demands of this art form.  Students will study dance, drama and voice and will have a variety of performance opportunities to showcase their work.

Prerequisite:  Chorus and teacher approval

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Physical Education (762)                                                                                                Each Season:½ Credit

The Physical Education and Wellness program is designed to provide a solid foundation for a healthy lifestyle while understanding the importance of physical fitness.  The program is designed to teach the fundamentals of physical activity, diet and nutrition, growth and development, and personal safety.  The students will also engage in various activities to promote a healthy lifestyle which can be carried on throughout a lifetime.  All activities will help develop students physically, socially, and mentally while stressing positive attitudes and sportsmanship.

SAT PREPARATION

SAT Prep (070)                                                                                                        Each Quarter: ¼ Credit

Research has shown that the best way to improve college entrance exam scores is by practicing the test.  Therefore, SAT test practice will be the focus of this courses.  In addition to this practice, students will learn general test taking strategies and specific strategies for the math, reading, and writing sections of the test.  The course will offer a minimal review of material covered by the test with an emphasis on vocabulary development.

Notes