2025-26 Course Catalog

Overview

The 2025-26 Fayetteville-Manlius High School Course Catalog outlines important information about our academic programs and policies, including the course selection process, graduation requirements, grading system and counseling program. More importantly, this catalog outlines the diverse course offerings available to you. The course selection process empowers you to create an academic program to best meet your skills and interests. As you consider which courses to choose, ask yourself the following questions:

1. What are your academic interests? Course selections provide you with the opportunity to explore new academic areas while building on areas of strength.
2. What are your post-secondary goals? Your academic program should lay the foundation for a well-rounded education that supports your plans for life after graduation. 
3. What other demands do you have on your time? Your schedule should provide an appropriately challenging program that will push you to grow, but also balance the activities and responsibilities you have outside of the academic day to ensure you have time to relax and socialize.

Additionally, take the following into consideration:

1. Teacher recommendations: Your current teachers have recommended courses for the 2025-26 school year in which they believe you will find the greatest success. If you have questions, please talk with your teachers to gain a better understanding of why they made the recommendations they did.
2. This is your path! Remember that your abilities and interests are unique to you. Therefore, the courses you select should reflect that, not the experiences or interests of others. Take time to talk with your family about your choices, as they can provide guidance as you consider what is best for you.
3. Your school counselor is here to help. You will meet with your school counselor to discuss course selections prior to submitting your course request form. If you have questions, reach out to them for input and support during the process.

Fayetteville-Manlius High School is proud of the rich academic program we provide. The course selection process is an exciting time to look forward to new opportunities in the 2025-26 school year. Do not hesitate to call our Counseling Center at 315-692-1801 for assistance. We want your program and related course selections to be right for you.

Sincerely,

Patrick McNamara
Principal

Procedures for Program Selection

• Review and discuss the pertinent sections with your parents/guardians.
• Note particularly course descriptions and prerequisites.
• Your classroom teachers will discuss their recommendations with you during the course selection process.
• Students will complete a course selection form that a parent/guardian will need to sign prior to the scheduled meeting with the student’s school counselor.

Parents should call the Counseling Center in their child’s school if questions arise.

• Eagle Hill: (315) 692-1401
• Wellwood: (315) 692-1301
• F-M High School: (315) 692-1801

• If you and your parents wish to change your program, you must talk with your school counselor. (For eighth graders, any course change requests should be communicated with your middle school counselor until June 30th. After July 1, you can begin to communicate with your high school counselor.)
• Students who request a level change from what their teacher recommended in any major subject area must have parental approval and complete a Course Override Form, available from their school counselor.
• Please keep in mind that course changes, including level changes, may be restricted by the availability of seats in a class.

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Teacher Recommendations

Teacher recommendations regarding placement are an important part of the course selection process. Teachers make course recommendations based on student performance in class, course prerequisites, and their knowledge of expectations and rigor of the subsequent courses in their curricular area. Generally speaking, teachers use a 90 or above as the guiding grade criteria for a student to be recommended for an accelerated or honors level course. Additionally, when making recommendations, teachers closely consider student study skills, work habits, motivation, and student interest and initiative in a subject area. 

Teacher recommendations have been shown to be good predictors of success and are encouraged to be followed. Students, with parental approval and support, may choose to enroll in a course for which they have not been recommended. They should be aware that the course in which they wish to enroll may be difficult for them, possibly resulting in low performance rather than success. 

The expected outcome of the course selection process is a schedule that is challenging, yet realistic, and allows the student optimal opportunities for success in school. In addition to school work and activities, it is important that students have unscheduled time, along with the opportunity to rest and recharge every day. Every effort will be made by teachers, school counselors, and administrators to discuss and offer all options and advise students and their parents on the importance of following course prerequisites and the value of teacher recommendations. 

Students and their parents should be aware that teacher recommendations for placement are made at midyear. For many full-year courses, sixty percent of the student’s final average is unknown when course recommendations are made. In some cases, teachers may find it necessary to change their recommendation before the year ends. Teachers will notify the student, the parent and the student’s counselor of the change, and the counselor will update the course requests. If this happens, parents can contact their child’s counselor to review the student’s proposed schedule.

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High School Course Override Process

Students may want to enroll in a course for which they were not recommended. Fayetteville-Manlius has an override process which allows parents and students to make the final determination of courses selected. There are many factors to consider when thinking about changing or overriding a teacher’s course recommendation, including extracurricular involvement, total academic load, available study time, the level of the student’s organization and study skills, and student passion for the subject. 

At all levels, parents are strongly encouraged to be involved in the course planning process. It is also critically important that parents are aware of any short- and long-term ramifications of course selection; for example, it may not be possible to make level and course changes during the school year. 

1. Teachers discuss course recommendations for the subsequent year with the student. 
2. Student shares course recommendations with a parent/guardian.
3. If a student and parent want to override a course recommendation, a conversation with the subject area teacher is strongly encouraged. A conversation with the school counselor may also be helpful. 
4. If an override is desired, the student completes the Course Override Form, available in the Counseling Center, obtains appropriate signatures, and submits the form to their school counselor. 
5. The school counselor makes the requested course change. 

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Teacher Requests/Changes

The master schedule is created each year based on students’ course requests. With more than 1,300 students, 200 courses, 125 teachers and 15,000 course requests, it is prohibitive to honor requests for a particular teacher. If a concern should arise, students are encouraged, with the support of their parents and/or school counselor, to talk with the teacher to work out any differences. It can provide an excellent learning opportunity on self-advocating and handling conflict. 

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Course Changes, Adds and Drops

Careful planning goes into the construction of a student’s schedule. Therefore, course adds, drops, and changes are not permitted arbitrarily. However, in some instances, changes in program may be the best alternative for the student. If this is the case, adds, drops or changes may be initiated by the student through the school counselor, and will include parent and teacher participation. In order to enact a change, the counselor gives the student an add/drop form, which must be signed by the parent, teacher, student, and lastly, the school counselor. The student must continue to attend the current class until the signed form has been returned and the school counselor has officially dropped the course from the student’s schedule. Students must maintain a minimum of five courses plus physical education each semester. 

Student preferences for electives can change with considerable frequency at the beginning of each semester. As a result, students are not required to complete a form when changing electives (as long as they maintain the five course minimum) until after the first full week of the semester. Course adds should be made by the conclusion of the second full week of classes.

To withdraw from a course without having the course or a grade noted on the permanent transcript, students must adhere to the following deadlines:

• .50 credit course – prior to the 20th class meeting
• 1.0 credit course – December 1st 

Course drops are not permitted after the third quarter for a full-year course or after the second quarter interims for a half-year course.

In unusual cases where a student does not maintain the five course minimum (e.g. entering school late in the semester, absence due to prolonged illness), the student (regardless of grade level) will be assigned to a study hall for the remainder of the semester.

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Definitions

A unit of study means at least 180 minutes of instruction per week throughout the school year.

A unit of credit is awarded based upon time and performance requirements that may vary from course to course. A unit of credit may be earned in two ways:

1. Final passing grade after completing a unit of study.
2. Students may earn a maximum of 6 1⁄2 units of credit by passing a Regents Exam with a score of 85% or higher and passing an oral examination or completing a special project. This is available for those students whom the Superintendent or designee determines will benefit academically by exercising this option, and must have prior approval. 

Regents examinations are state achievement tests that are aligned with New York State’s learning standards.

Board of Regents is responsible for the general supervision of all educational activities within the State, presiding over the New York State Education Department.

Prerequisites are those courses that should be completed by the student before beginning a subsequent course. Prerequisites, when applicable, are stated under the course title.

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New York State Graduation Requirements

The NYS Blue Ribbon Commission on Graduation Measures is currently reviewing and recommending changes to the state’s high school diploma requirements. The information below is current as of December 2024.

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Requirements

All students must complete a minimum of 1 unit of credit in Art/Music. The following courses are acceptable:

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Regents Diploma

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Advanced Regents Diploma

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Pathway Diploma Options

New York State has created many options to meet graduation requirements.

The Regents exams that satisfy the testing requirements for a Regents and Advanced Regents Diploma still remain. The state has also designated alternative “pathways” to satisfy diploma requirements, generally through a variation in required exams. 

The school counselor and student will develop a program to meet the graduation requirements. 

Parents who have any questions about graduation requirements are strongly encouraged to contact their child’s counselor.

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Diploma Types

• Advanced Regents Diploma = 8 exams at 65+ or 7 exams at 65+ and one pathway
• Regents Diploma = 5 exams at 65+ or 4 exams at 65+ and one pathway
• Local Diploma
  • For students with disabilities who have an Individualized Education Program (IEP), were declassified, or have a 504 plan that specifies they are eligible for the safety net). See below for qualifications. 
  • English Language Learners (ELLs) who have taken the ELA exam at least twice and scored 55-59 can appeal. They can also appeal a 60-64 score on one additional exam. See below for the appeals process. 
  • For any student who has passed 3 required Regents exams with a 65 or higher and 2 Regents exams with a score of 60-64 for which an appeal has been granted.
• For students with disabilities, a minimum score of 55 on the five required examinations will be acceptable for a local diploma. There are also a number of safety net options available to graduate with a local diploma, including:
  • Low-Pass Safety Net Option
  • Low-Pass Safety Net Option with Appeal
  • Compensatory Safety Net Option
  • Superintendent Determination Option

Students should consult with their school counselor for eligibility. 

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Appeals Process

The Board of Regents has a process for all students to appeal a lower score on a Regents Exam if they meet the following criteria 

• Have taken the Regents Exam under appeal at least two times;
• Have the following score on the Regents Exam under appeal: 60-64 (all students), 55-59 (English language learners in ELA only), and 52-54 (students with disabilities eligible for the Low Pass Safety Net Option);
• Have taken advantage of academic help provided by the school in the subject tested by the Regents Exam under appeal;
• Have passed the course for which the appeal is being sought; and
• Have been recommended for an exemption to the graduation requirement by the student’s teacher or instructional specialist in the department of the Regents Exam under appeal. 

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Approved Alternative Examinations

Acceptable for meeting requirements for a Local or Regents Diploma

The test score(s) indicated below are the minimum acceptable score(s) that can be substituted for a Regents Examination score for all students who have successfully completed the course of study for that subject. See NYSED website for additional score alternatives.

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Grading System

Marks reflect the academic achievement of the student. When determining marks, teachers consider a variety of factors including tests, quizzes, homework, notebooks, projects, and class participation. Due to the differing nature of courses at the high school, teachers weigh these factors differently in each course. Students will receive a syllabus to know how they are being graded.

Marks are reported four (4) times a year with mid-marking period notices (Academic Progress Reports) available in SchoolTool during each of the marking periods. A schedule can be found on the school calendar. Parents and students may review assignments and current grades by accessing SchoolTool at any time. For report cards, the high school uses numeric grades on a scale of 0 – 100, with 65 being the lowest passing grade.

In addition to numeric grades, the following codes may be seen on a report card:

• W = Withdrawn
• P = Pass
• INC = Incomplete
• MED = Medical Excuse

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Grade Point Average

At the end of each marking period, a grade point average is calculated by averaging each grade with the frequency of the class meeting. For example, a class that meets alternate days will count half as much as a class that meets daily.

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Honor Roll

Honor Roll = 85.0

High Honor Roll = 90.0 

At the end of each marking period, the Honor Roll is computed as follows:

G.P.A.= Grade value x Frequency value ÷ Total Frequency Value

Frequency value = 1.0 for daily classes and 0.5 for alternate day classes. All courses are equitable according to frequency of meeting.

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Example: Honor Roll Computation

Course: Grade Point Average x Frequency Value = Honor Roll Point Value

• AP U.S. History & Gov.: 96 x 1.00 = 96
• PreCalculus: 86 x 1.00 = 86
• Chemistry: 89 x 1.00 = 89
• Latin 3H: 92 x 1.00 = 92
• Health: 100 x 1.00 = 100
• American Literature H: 82 x 1.00 = 82
• Physical Education: 89 x 0.50 = 44.5

Total frequency value: 6.50

Total honor roll point value: 589.50

589.50 ÷ 6.50 = 90.7% Honor roll average

At the end of the year, the G.P.A. is figured as follows: Grade Value x Credit Value ÷ Total Credits

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Example: GPA Computation

Course: Grade Point Average x Frequency Value = Honor Roll Point Value

• AP U.S. History & Gov.: 88 x 1.00 = 88
• PreCalculus: 90 x 1.00 = 90
• Chemistry: 87 x 1.00 = 87
• Latin 3H: 92 x 1.00 = 92
• Health: 96 x 0.50 = 48
• American Literature H: 84 x 0.50 = 42
• Physical Education: 88 x 0.50 = 44

Total frequency value: 5.50

Total honor roll point value: 491

491 ÷ 5.50 = 89.3% GPA

The final average is equal to the grade point average for the year and will appear on the report card in the bottom right hand corner.

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Example: Weighted GPA Computation

Course: Grade Point Average x Frequency Value x Weight = Honor Roll Point Value

• AP U.S. History & Gov.: 88 x 1.00 x 1.10 = 96.8
• PreCalculus: 90 x 1.00 x 1.00 = 90
• Chemistry: 87 x 1.00 x 1.00 = 87
• Latin 3H: 92 x 1.00 x 1.05 = 96.6
• Health: 96 x 0.50 x 1.0 = 48
• American Literature H: 84 x 0.50 x 1.05 = 44.1
• Physical Education: 88 x 0.50 x 1.00 = 44

Total frequency value: 5.50

Total honor roll point value: 506.50

506.50 ÷ 5.50 = 92.1% Weighted GPA

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Homework

As an extension of classroom instruction, homework is an integral part of learning. As an out-of-school learning opportunity, homework complements classroom instruction. Students who do not complete assigned work are missing part of their learning experience. Homework is any course-related activity assigned to be completed outside of class, including reading, writing, and other activities assigned on a regular basis. Its purpose include:

• Practicing or applying new skills and learnings
• Reinforcing previously taught skills and understandings
• Preparing to learn new information and/or skills
• Developing self-discipline

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College-Level Courses

As students advance through high school, they may be ready for the challenge of college-level work. Courses offering such work allow the students to make the academic transition to a higher level by testing their skills and discipline within the framework of college expectations. Students may acquire college credits to apply toward their college degree.

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Advanced Placement Courses

Credit may be earned when students successfully complete an Advanced Placement (AP) examination at the end of a course. The amount of credit awarded is determined by the corresponding department at the student’s college. 

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Dual Enrollment Courses

College-level courses are taught at the high school by high school faculty members who are adjunct instructors with the respective college’s academic department. Students wishing to earn college credit pay reduced tuition to the college and are concurrently enrolled. Instruction, materials and testing are similar to on-campus classes. Supervision of the programs is maintained by the respective college. Dual enrollment courses are offered through Syracuse University Project Advance (SUPA), SUNY E.S.F., SUNY Oswego and O.C.C. 

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Placement and credit

Colleges may grant credit and/or advanced standing. Some F-M courses make it possible for a student to score high enough on an exam, given at the college, to gain advanced standing or placement and/or bypass the intro-level course. This is frequently the case with World Languages. Each college has its own policy; consult the Admissions Office for information. 

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Counseling Program

School counselors at the high school are available for academic counseling, post-secondary planning, career exploration, social/emotional support, and consultation with teachers and parents regarding their students. They meet with students individually and in small groups. The school counselor serves as the bridge between the classroom and all other aspects of students’ lives. Students may also meet with the Family-School Liaison or Student Assistance Counselor and are advised of the availability of private and agency counseling, as needed. 

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Available Programs

• Eastside College Night in partnership with East Syracuse Minoa and Jamesville-DeWitt High Schools in October
• Syracuse National College Fair in March
• College information program, “The Admission Game,” for students and parents
• Online computer program, Scoir, to assist with career and post-secondary planning
• Student seminars at all grade levels 
• Admission representative visits by colleges/universities each year in the Career Center
• Military recruiter visits to share opportunities
• Mental Health educational programming
• Job shadowing opportunities to explore career interests 
• New student orientation welcoming students and families that are new to the district 
• Parent information programs to discuss post-secondary planning
• Therapy dog program to provide emotional support to students and staff

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The Counseling Curriculum

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Counselor-Student Assignments

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Art and Photography

Today’s world of work is becoming increasingly visual and requires creative problem solving skills. Studio Art courses in two-dimensional and three-dimensional art and photography provide these important visual communication skills. Art courses can offer a crucial balance to a heavy academic schedule, encouraging personal growth and development of lifelong learning skills.

Art courses can be an essential element of a Regents Diploma. The one-credit art/music graduation requirement can be met within the Art Department by taking Studio in Art: Foundations, Photography 1 and Photography 2, or Studio in Media Arts in combination with an introductory music course or another art course.

An art course lays the foundation for a well-rounded education. An art sequence can enhance academic skills and provide a strong portfolio of work, which is especially valuable in professions such as engineering, medicine, architecture and design, and fine art fields. Five units of art can be substituted for the three-year World Languages requirement for the Advanced Regents Diploma.

Courses

0400 – STUDIO IN ART: Foundations

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grades 9-12

Art Foundations is a year-long introduction to the visual arts. It is taught in a studio atmosphere with emphasis on visual perception and experiences in a variety of art media. It is broadly based on the elements and principles of art, their use in our environment and their historical significance. This course is a prerequisite for an art sequence. This course is recommended to meet the Art/Music graduation requirement, and for students pursuing a college preparation program of study where a portfolio can enhance the academic record.

0401 – PAINTING & DRAWING

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grades 9-12

Painting & Drawing is a second-year art course that builds on the studio art experience. It expands knowledge and technique in the elements and principles of art. Drawing and painting, as well as media exploration and other art forms, are explored. Working from the figure, still life and landscape are integral to this process, and lead to unique, individualized portfolios.

Prerequisite: 0400 or 0441

0441 – STUDIO IN MEDIA ARTS

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 9-12

This dynamic course offers students a foundational exploration of diverse artistic media in studio arts. Media Arts provides hands-on experience in various media formats, including explorative drawing and painting, experimental process art, animation, or digital design. Students will delve into the creative process, from conceptualization to execution, gaining proficiency in industry-standard tools and techniques. With a focus on fostering interdisciplinary connections, technical skills, and artistic expression, students are encouraged to push the boundaries of traditional media arts, fostering innovation and creative problem-solving. Participants will engage in collaborative projects, cultivating a versatile skill set that prepares them for the multifaceted landscape of contemporary art creation. This course, with another 1/2 unit art, photography or music course, may be used to meet the Art/Music requirement.

0404 – ADVANCED ART I

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grades 10-12

This is a course designed for art students who are interested in developing a deeper understanding and use of art media and technique. Students evaluate their basic strengths and weaknesses. They develop projects to strengthen their skills in order to develop a well-rounded portfolio and identify the role of art skills in expanding career fields.

Prerequisite: 0401

0409 – ADVANCED ART II 

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grades 11-12

This course continues the development of student strengths in all art media and addresses any weak areas in the developing portfolio. Students at this level develop additional skills in art criticism, identify contemporary trends in art history, and begin work on a concentration in preparation for the AP Art course.

Prerequisite: 0404

0406 – ADVANCED PLACEMENT ART 

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grade 12

This course offers students the opportunity to earn AP credit in either the Drawing Portfolio or the Art and Design Portfolio, and is recognized by most colleges and art schools. The AP score is based on the evaluation of the portfolio work sent to the College Board in May. AP Art is organized on a seminar basis, allowing motivated students the experience of college-level work through completing a sustained investigation of their choosing.

Prerequisite: 404, 409 and/or AP Art teacher approval

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Ceramics

Suggested Ceramics 3-D Design Cluster

• 0408 Studio in Ceramic 3-D Design: 1 credit/40 weeks
• 0416 Studio in Advanced Ceramics 3-D Design I: 1/2 credit/20 weeks
• 0417 Studio in Advanced Ceramics 3-D Design II: 1/2 credit/20 weeks
• 0420 AP Art 3-D Design Portfolio: 1 credit/40 weeks

Suggested 3-D Design and Sculpture Cluster

• 0408 Studio in Ceramic 3-D Design: 1 credit/40 weeks
• 0418 Studio in 3-D Design and Sculpture I: 1/2 credit/20 weeks
• 0419 Studio in 3-D Design and Sculpture II: 1/2 credit/20 weeks
• 0420 AP Art 3-D Design Portfolio: 1 credit/40 weeks

0408 – STUDIO IN CERAMIC 3-D DESIGN 

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grades 9-12

This course introduces students to ancient and contemporary hand-building and wheel-throwing techniques. Ceramic students create a wide variety of objects from utilitarian pottery to unique sculptures using the elements of art and principles of design. Artwork produced in this course may be selected for inclusion in an AP Art 3D Design Portfolio for college credit.

Prerequisite: 0400 or 0441

0416 – STUDIO IN ADVANCED 3-D CERAMIC DESIGN I

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 10-12

Students will implement skills and knowledge gained in Studio in Ceramics to further explore their own perceptions and ideas in clay. Wheel throwing and hand building of vessels and sculptures will be done primarily in a series of related pieces showing development of skills, forms and themes employing the elements of art and principles of design. 

Prerequisite: 0408 or permission from the ceramics teacher

0417 – STUDIO IN ADVANCED 3-D CERAMIC DESIGN II

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 10-12

Students will continue to develop skills and knowledge gained in Studio in Advanced 3D Ceramic Design I to further explore their own perceptions and ideas in clay. Selected work made in this course may be included in the AP Art 3D Design Portfolio for college credit.

Prerequisite: 0408 or permission from the ceramics teacher

0418 – STUDIO IN 3-D DESIGN AND SCULPTURE I

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 10-12

This course provides students with an introduction to basic sculptural processes, materials and equipment. Focus is placed on the development of three-dimensional design (form, space, object, composition), strengthening observational skills and safety. Students will create figures, portraits, abstractions, assemblages and other types of sculptures using a variety of materials and form-making processes, including additive (modeling, constructive) and subtractive (carving). Students will work with materials such as plaster, paper, cardboard, clay, stone, wire, etc.

Prerequisite: 0408

0419 – STUDIO IN 3-D DESIGN AND SCULPTURE II 

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 10-12

Students will continue to develop skills and knowledge gained in Studio in 3D Design and Sculpture I. Focus is placed on the development of three-dimensional design (form, space, object, composition), strengthening observational skills and safety. Artwork produced in this course may be selected for inclusion in an AP Art 3D Design Portfolio for college credit.

Prerequisite: 0408

0420 – ADVANCED PLACEMENT ART 3-D DESIGN PORTFOLIO

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grade 12

This course offers students the opportunity to earn AP credit for a 3-dimensional design portfolio. The AP score is based on the evaluation of the portfolio work sent to the College Board in May. Advanced Placement Art 3D Design is organized on a seminar basis, allowing motivated students the experience of college-level work through completing a sustained investigation of the students’ choosing.

Prerequisite: 0416, 0417, 0418 and 0419 and/or teacher approval

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Photography

0431 – PHOTOGRAPHY 1 

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 9-12

Photography I is a beginning photography course designed to introduce students to the digital single lens reflex camera, as well as digital imaging. This course includes an introduction to the camera body and lens operation, shooting modes, white balance, memory cards, file formats, and editing techniques. Heavy emphasis is placed on lighting, composition, and creativity. Previous photography knowledge is not necessary. ACCESS TO A DSLR IS RECOMMENDED. ACCESS TO A DIGITAL CAMERA IS REQUIRED. This course, in combination with Photography 2, can be used to meet the Art/Music graduation requirement.

0433 – PHOTOGRAPHY 2 

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 9-12

This course allows students to expand their camera and digital imaging skills acquired during Photography I. Advanced instruction will include areas of artificial lighting, composition and advanced post-processing techniques. Topics include the business of photography and its possible vocational aspects. ACCESS TO A DSLR IS REQUIRED.

Prerequisite: 0431

0435 – ADVANCED PHOTOGRAPHY 3

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 10-12

This course is designed for students who are interested in gaining a deeper understanding of digital photographic media and techniques. The students will be required to create projects that are aimed to strengthen their design skills as well as build their portfolio. Course emphasis will be on the refinement of basic technical skills and the development of a personal direction in photography for the student. ACCESS TO A DSLR IS REQUIRED.

Prerequisite: 0433

0439 – ADVANCED PHOTOGRAPHY 4

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 10-12

This intensive course is tailored for students seeking to elevate their photographic skills to an advanced level by delving into specialized aspects of photography, and honing both technical expertise and creative finesse. Through a curated curriculum, students will explore advanced techniques in composition, lighting, and post-processing, fostering a nuanced understanding of visual storytelling. Emphasis is placed on hands-on projects, encouraging students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. Whether capturing moments in the studio or exploring the dynamic interplay of light and shadow outdoors, participants will emerge from this course with a refined portfolio and a heightened ability to convey their artistic vision through the lens. ACCESS TO A DSLR IS REQUIRED.

Prerequisite: 0435 and/or teacher approval

0440 – AP 2-D Art and Design

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grades 11-12

AP 2-D Art and Design is a comprehensive course designed for aspiring artists who wish to delve into the world of 2-dimensional design through photography at an advanced level. Aligned with the College Board’s AP program, this course offers a deep exploration of the principles and techniques of visual storytelling through the lens. Over the duration of the program, students will engage in a sustained investigation, crafting a unique and cohesive body of work as part of the AP 2-D Design Portfolio. Emphasizing both technical proficiency and conceptual depth, this 1-credit course aims to nurture students’ creative vision while preparing them for the challenges of artistic expression in the realm of photography. ACCESS TO A DSLR IS REQUIRED.

Prerequisite: 0439 and/or teacher approval

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BOCES Courses

The Onondaga-Cortland-Madison Board of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES) has a Career and Technical Education (CTE) program at its Thompson Road campus. Most students who take CTE programs will attend F-M for half the school day and BOCES for the other half. First year (Level I) courses are taught in the afternoon and second year (Level II) courses in the morning. School bus transportation is provided. Most F-M students continue their education in two- and four-year colleges after completing these programs.

In career and technical education, students: 1) learn on state-of-the-art equipment in a simulated work environment; 2) may receive up to four high school credits per year, completing the CTE program with an additional course in math or science; 3) may earn their required health credit, and 4) may receive remedial support, if needed.

Classes are at the Thompson Road Campus:

6820 Thompson Road
Syracuse, NY 13221
Phone: (315) 433-2635

Courses

Career and Technical Programs

• Auto Collision Technology I & II
• Auto Technology I & II
• Culinary & Pastry Arts I & II
• Computer Technology I & II
• Construction Technology I & II
• Cosmetology I & II
• Health Occupations I & II
• Laboratory Technology I & II
• Welding Technology I & II

Embedded CTE Programs

These are two-year programs for highly motivated junior and senior students. Students need to fill out an application and be accepted based on attendance and academic performance.

• Automotive Technology: Located off-site at Driver’s Village. (Earn math and science credits)
• Heavy Equipment Operation & Repair/Diesel Technology: Located off-site at Tracey Road Equipment. (Earn math and science credits) 
• Early Childhood: Located off-site at Bridgeport Elementary in the Chittenango School District, students receive experience in UPK classrooms.
• Media Marketing Communications: Located off-site at WCNY. Students can receive up to 21 Onondaga Community College credits. (Earn English 12 and science credits)
• Physical Therapy: Students go on clinical rotations at off-site locations, such as SUNY Upstate Cancer Center, Loretto, Fahey Rehab, and ProActive PT. Students can receive 13 Onondaga Community College credits. (Earn English 12 and science credits)
• Firefighting and Emergency Medical Technician: Located off-site at Madison County Emergency Management Training Center. (Earn math and science credits)

New Visions

New Visions programs are interdisciplinary and are oriented toward highly motivated seniors. Each program has a distinct outline which includes immersion experiences in the specific field, is one year in length and is structured in a college preparatory model. Students who successfully complete a program typically go on to pursue two-year or four-year degrees. *Credits include English 12; Participation in Government/Economics; and 3 CTE credits.

The following programs are currently offered:

• Engineering Professions at Lockheed Martin
• Criminal Justice at the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office
• Medical Professions with rotations at SUNY Upstate Medical University, Crouse Hospital and the Syracuse VA Medical Center.

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Business

Business courses are designed to meet the needs of college-bound students who are considering majoring in Business, as well as for students who are interested in learning how the business world works, how to manage their own finances and how to become informed consumers. Students seeking an Advanced Regents Diploma may replace the 3-unit World Languages requirement with 5 units of Business.

Courses

0502 – ACCOUNTING 1 

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grades 9-12

This course is a foundation for the student considering a business profession. Students will learn the principles of accounting and the entire accounting cycle. They learn to record transactions for businesses using a current computer software program. Topics for study include: double entry accounting, payroll, taxes and banking. Students also learn how to maintain financial records for sole proprietorships, partnerships and corporations.

0504 – BUSINESS LAW 

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grades 9-12

This course is for students with an interest in law and those wishing to gain a deeper understanding of their rights and the legal system. Many interesting and controversial legal issues ranging from unsafe consumer products to corporate fraud will be discussed. Other topics of study will include the legal aspects of borrowing money, insurance, property, leases and juvenile law. Students become more knowledgeable citizens and obtain an advantage in their college business program by completing this course.

0510 – SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT MARKETING

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 9-12

Sports and entertainment marketing is a growing multi-billion dollar industry that plays a significant role in our economy. Students will understand marketing concepts and theories that apply to the sports and entertainment industry. Topics of study include: publicity, sponsorship, endorsements, licensing, branding, promotions and event marketing. These marketing functions are incorporated throughout the sports and entertainment world and demonstrate how marketing impacts our everyday lives. Fantasy sports, entertainment competitions, and student-driven projects will enhance student understanding of this exciting field.

0511 – ENTREPRENEURSHIP

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 9-12

Do you know someone who owns their own business? Do you want to be your own boss? Did you know that seven out of ten high school students dream about opening their own business? Many young people hesitate to venture into business enterprises because they have little or no experience in the business world and lack training. Our global business world is ripe with vast opportunities to experience, and this course is designed to build confidence and take your place in business with vital management and planning skills.

0514 – CONTEMPORARY BUSINESS ISSUES (OCC)

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 10-12

This college level course is designed to give students an overview of the impact of business on society. It is intended to aid the student in obtaining a clear understanding of how contemporary business functions through the interrelationships of management, marketing and finance. Topics to be studied include: entrepreneurship, business ownership, human resource management, labor issues, ethics, stocks, finance, economics and banking. This dual enrollment courses follows the same curriculum and requirements as the similar course at Onondaga Community College. Students are able to earn three OCC credits at no cost.

0518 – PERSONAL FINANCE

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 9-12

This course is designed to give you the information and tools you need to make smart financial choices now and for the future. Topics include saving and investing, bank accounts, using credit, budgeting, preparing income taxes, buying insurance, and planning for large purchases such as automobiles and houses. Through this course you will learn how the stock and bond markets work, and the ways in which current economic situations affect everyday consumers. This is a practical, hands-on course in which you will learn strategies to manage your money and be prepared for the financial decisions you will be making throughout your life.

0520 – CAREER & FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 9-12

Do you want the competitive edge to be hired and promoted in the 21st century global economy? Would you like to be prepared to take initiative and build a professional network? In this real world course, you will gain the skills and knowledge necessary to make sound career and financial decisions. Activities include: participating in mock interview and business simulation projects; designing and developing an innovative product as an entrepreneur; building your first professional digital footprint using programs including LinkedIn and Docs.com; and understanding labor laws, goal setting and personal money management.

0525 – SUPA PERSONAL FINANCE

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 11-12

This is an advanced, college-level course exploring the allocation of finite resources to meet wants and needs of households in terms of financial stability. The class covers essential aspects of budgeting, banking, saving, borrowing, credit, insurance, taxes, retirement and end-of-life considerations. The course will provide a foundation to empower students to maintain financial security and navigate the financial world ahead of them. This course is the same as Personal Finance (ECN 305) at Syracuse University. Upon registration and payment of tuition at SU, students are eligible for three hours of college credit as well as 1/2 unit of high school credit. The course will appear as Syracuse University Project Advance (SUPA) on the student’s transcript. 

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Computer Science

Computer Science courses are designed to prepare students for an Engineering, Math, Science or Computer Science college major, as well as for students who want to gain a deeper understanding of how technology works and how software applications, including games, are designed and written. One unit of Computer Science may be substituted for one unit of math. Please see your school counselor for more information.

Courses

0522 – COMPUTER SCIENCE I: Python I

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 9-12

Learn the basics of video game development by using an easy to learn computer programming language. This is an introductory course in Computer Science where you’ll be introduced to computer programming concepts and techniques that will lead to a final project in which you design and code your own game. You’ll also develop troubleshooting and debugging skills by testing the games other students have written. If you are planning to major in engineering or computer science in college, or are just interested in learning more about how video games are developed and written, this is the course for you! 

0523 – COMPUTER SCIENCE II: Python II & Java

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 9-12

Continue to build on the programming skills you learned in Computer Science I. This course will cover more programming concepts using Python such as loops, data structures, and object oriented programming. Students will practice solving problems and prepare for future courses. Java is a major programming language used in every major industry segment and is present in a wide range of devices, computers, and networks. After this course, students may be recommended to take AP Computer Science or decide to take Computer Science III.

Prerequisites: Computer Science I or permission of instructor.

0513 – COMPUTER SCIENCE III: Exploratory Computer Science

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grades 10-12

Explore several languages and applications for computer science. The languages covered in this course include HTML, CSS, Javascript, C++, and Java. The topics covered in this course will revolve around solving advanced problems, developing web applications, and programming hardware. This course will conclude with concepts from the first 3 units of AP Computer Science A to give students an introduction to the AP level course. 

Prerequisites: Computer Science II or permission of instructor. 

0524 – AP COMPUTER SCIENCE: A 

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grades 11-12

This course prepares students to take the AP Computer Science A examination. Topics covered include: programming methodology, problem solving, algorithm development, object-oriented programming techniques, searching and sorting methods, and an introduction to data structures, using the Java programming language.

Prerequisites: CSI, CSII, and CSIII, or permission of instructor

0517 – WEB DESIGN & DEVELOPMENT 

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 9-12

This is an exciting and fascinating course for students interested in designing, editing, and publishing a website using web editors such as Google Sites and Canva. The course introduces students to the coding languages used for web design, HTML and CSS, to enhance and personalize websites. An emphasis on how to design an effective website for a specific purpose and collaborate with other students on projects is a theme embedded throughout the course. Students will leave the class with a digital portfolio of websites designed both individually and within a team atmosphere.

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English

Except for ninth-grade courses and the Interdisciplinary Honors English courses in grades 9 and 10, English courses are one semester in length. All courses involve the student reading, writing, developing vocabulary, speaking, and listening. Because these skills are so interrelated, what a student learns in one area reinforces the learning in all others. All students are encouraged to read throughout the summer.

Requirements in English

The New York State Education Department requires four credits in English for graduation. Every student must also pass the English Language Arts Regents assessment in order to graduate. At F-M, each student’s program must include:

1. American Literature 1/2 credit. Courses fulfilling this requirement are 7755 and 7765.
2. One writing course in grades 10, 11, and 12. Such courses are designated as Writing within their titles. A student must earn passing grades in 9th and 10th grade courses as a prerequisite for the Essay Writing course in 11th grade.

The English Honors curriculum emphasizes critical literacy processes and practices. As such, it assumes increased intellectual rigor and intensity as students progress through the grade levels. Students who meet the minimum criteria and wish to continue in the honors program regularly exhibit the following traits:

• Intellectual curiosity, as demonstrated by consistent engagement with a wide variety of challenging texts, by self-initiative during the reader response process and by consistent, insightful contributions during class discussions.
• Intellectual maturity, as demonstrated by comfort with less structure and more ambiguity during class discussions and activities, as well as sustained attention to detail during the critical reading and writing process. (Note: most critical reading and formalized drafting take place independently, out of class, in honors courses.)
• A strong work ethic, as demonstrated by willingness to read the equivalent of 25-30 pages of rigorous course material each night, by sustained, independent attention to writing process and refinement during drafting and revision, and by willingness to offer and to utilize constructive criticism throughout the writing process.

Ninth-Grade English Courses

Required: One credit.

• 7710 English 9 Regents
• 7719 English 9 Honors
• 8888 English 9 Interdisciplinary Honors

Tenth-Grade English Courses

Required: One credit. Choose one from each.

Eleventh-Grade English Courses

Required: One credit. Choose one from each.

Twelfth-Grade English Courses

Required: One credit. Choose Writing and Discourse and one other 1/2 credit course, or AP Language/AP Literature to complete the one credit.

English ELECTIVE COURSES

The English Department offers electives in literature, language, creative writing, journalism, and acting, as well as courses to improve writing and reading. Although these courses are not counted toward the four required credits in English, they do carry elective credit toward the diploma.

Courses for Grade 9

7704 – ENGLISH 9 – Humanities

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grade 9

This Regents-level course is taught in conjunction with Global 9 (0001), designed for students whose reading and writing skills are still developing, and who do not receive other academic support during the school day. The Regents curriculum is followed at a slower pace in order to prepare students for the 10th grade English curriculum, and ultimately the ELA Regents exam taken in 11th grade.

By middle school recommendation only

7710 – ENGLISH 9 – Regents

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grade 9

This course is designed for the student who has proficient to above average skills in reading and writing. During the course, students’ reading prompts ideas for writing and speaking. The students frequently work in pairs or groups to discuss their own as well as professional authors’ writings. Students may consider issues related to justice and prejudice, community and heroes, and the concept of home. They write, speak, and read books on those themes, including “To Kill a Mockingbird”, “Ender’s Game”, “Romeo and Juliet”, “The Odyssey”, “Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time”, “This Side of Home”, and “Long Way Down”.

7719 – ENGLISH 9 – Honors

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grade 9

This course is designed for the student with exceptionally strong reading and writing skills who is capable of taking an idea from the concrete to the abstract. During the course, students’ reading prompts ideas for writing and mini-research projects, which in turn may become materials for oral presentations or group discussions. Students will explore the themes of community, family, justice, tolerance and prejudice in a variety of texts. Students are introduced to Greek mythology and read Homer’s Odyssey in order to form a strong foundation for understanding and appreciating more contemporary literature. Short stories, poems, non-fiction texts, visual media, and long works such as “To Kill a Mockingbird”, “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time”, “Romeo and Juliet”, “Ender’s Game”, “Animal Farm”, and “The House on Mango Street” are used to prompt analysis and discussion. Students in honors level courses exhibit intellectual curiosity, intellectual maturity, and a strong work ethic.

8888 – ENGLISH 9 – Interdisciplinary Honors – Full Year

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grade 9

In this year-long course, literature and composition instruction are integrated to facilitate some interdisciplinary units in Social Studies and English. Students taking this course must simultaneously enroll in Global History & Geography Interdisciplinary Honors (0003), designed for exceptional English and Social Studies students who display advanced reading, writing, and thinking skills, and who are creative and sophisticated in their work. Activities in the two courses are designed to encourage students to associate and apply the concepts and skills that are inherent to both disciplines in numerous cooperative learning activities. As a part of their course work, students study multicultural literature as related to the social studies curriculum, and participate in a variety of listening, speaking, writing and research activities. Texts may include “To Kill a Mockingbird”, “Siddhartha”, “Romeo & Juliet”, “Granada”, “Ender’s Game”, and “Snow Flower and the Secret Fan”. Students in honors level courses exhibit intellectual curiosity, intellectual maturity, and a strong work ethic.

FIRST SEMESTER COURSES FOR GRADE 10

7730 – WRITING & SPEECH – Regents

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grade 10

The purpose of this course is to involve the student in understanding the use of rhetorical devices in carefully planned writing, including pieces that are expository, narrative, descriptive, and analytical. The subjects for writing are chosen from both the student’s world and the literary world. During units on speech, students participate in various listening and speaking activities. The units are intended to continue building the student’s poise, confidence, and effectiveness in speaking and reading aloud. Vocabulary development and understanding of rhetorical devices are also an integral part of this course.

7739 – WRITING & SPEECH – Honors 

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grade 10

This writing course is intended for skilled students who write with correctness and clarity and are ready to concern themselves with refining the style and heightening the interest in their papers. A range of special writing effects are explored through student experimentation and the study of accomplished writers. Revising and rewriting are a crucial part of the process in this course as is vocabulary instruction. Students will complete synthesis and research projects, and participate in various listening and speaking activities. The speaking element of the course is intended to continue building the student’s poise, confidence, and effectiveness in speaking and reading aloud. Students are required to give several speeches throughout the semester. Students in honors courses exhibit intellectual curiosity, intellectual maturity and a strong work ethic. 

8889 – ENGLISH 10 – Interdisciplinary Honors – Full Year

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grade 10

This year-long course continues the aims of Interdisciplinary Honors English 9, and students must also enroll in Interdisciplinary Honors Global History & Geography 10 (0013). As this is a humanities program, students will be expected to successfully engage in cooperative learning activities. Interdisciplinary units and presentations are designed to challenge students who exhibit strength in both disciplines and to encourage them to associate and deepen the concepts and skills inherent in English and Global Studies. A jottings notebook may be required to help develop student thinking and writing. Literature studies may include “1984”, “Brave New World”, “Lord of the Flies”, “Night”, and “The Tempest”, as well as a variety of short stories and poems. Since the course requires extensive writing and textual analysis, students choosing it should have achieved a B+ or above in English 9 Honors or 9 Interdisciplinary Honors. Students in honors level courses exhibit intellectual curiosity, intellectual maturity, and a strong work ethic.

SECOND SEMESTER COURSES FOR GRADE 10

8733 – PERSPECTIVES IN LITERATURE – Regents

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grade 10

Students in this course will read and write about short stories, plays, novels, and poetry which focus on varying perspectives and ideas in literature. In their writing, students will create, develop and support controlling ideas based on literary texts. In addition, students will deliver presentations and group projects. Major works may include: A Midsummer Night’s Dream or Twelfth Night, Night, A Separate Peace, American Born Chinese and The Lord of the Flies.

8740 – PERSPECTIVES IN LITERATURE – Honors

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grade 10

This course is designed for students who are strong readers and sophisticated writers. Students will be expected to create their own meanings from texts and support their positions with well-developed, text-based reasoning. Students will work in a variety of genres. Major works may include “A Midsummer Night’s Dream or Twelfth Night”, “1984”, “Night”, “Lord of the Flies”, “American Born Chinese” and “Tell the Wolves I’m Home”. Students in honors level courses exhibit intellectual curiosity, intellectual maturity, and a strong work ethic.

FIRST SEMESTER COURSES FOR GRADE 11

7755 – AMERICAN LITERATURE – Regents

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grade 11

The literature in this course explores some of the rich variety of cultural identities that make up America as well as concerns reflected in the work of American authors. Writing assignments for this course focus on exploration and analysis of literature and include practice for the English Language Arts Common Core Regents Examination in June. Literature may include: “The Great Gatsby”, “Into the Wild”, “The Catcher in the Rye”, “Fences”, “Their Eyes Were Watching God”, and “Little Fires Everywhere, as well as other long fiction or drama, and a variety of poems and short stories. 

7765 – AMERICAN LITERATURE – Honors

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grade 11

This is a course designed for juniors with strong reading comprehension skills, who are stylistically sophisticated in writing. Honors American Literature delves into concerns reflected in the work of American authors. Students explore short stories, longer fiction, drama, and poetry. Texts may include: “The Scarlet Letter”, “The Great Gatsby”, “The Catcher in the Rye”, “Sula”, “Kindred” and “Fences” along with shorter texts by Sherman Alexie, Langston Hughes, and Naomi Shihab Nye. Writing assignments for this course focus on literary analysis and include practice for the English Language Arts Common Core Regents assessment that all grade 11 students must take in June. Students in honors level courses exhibit intellectual curiosity, intellectual maturity, and a strong work ethic.

SECOND SEMESTER COURSES FOR GRADE 11

8759 – ESSAY WRITING – Regents

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grade 11

In this course students focus on the writing process and writing essays responding to, analyzing, and utilizing outside texts, with a focus on peer and self-editing, including all types of literature. “Shorter” pieces such as poetry and short fiction, and the frequently ignored genre of non-fiction (such as essays, profiles, biographies) are the primary focus. Students work on improving the thesis statement of their essays, logical development, and style. Students will also engage in writing exercises that could move toward a college personal statement. Writing assignments include practice in answering the composition questions which appear on the English Language Arts Common Core Regents assessment that all grade 11 students must take in June.

8769 – ESSAY WRITING – Honors 

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grade 11

Students in the honors sections are expected to be able to write sophisticated compositions that demonstrate logical development, an awareness of style and a clear voice. This section of Essay Writing is designed for students with exceptional writing ability, many of whom will be entering the Advanced Placement or Project Advance programs in their senior years. The course focuses on analyzing various genres of literature and writing various types of essays: personal writing, literary analysis of prose and poetry, the research essay, as well as preparation for the English Language Arts Common Core Regents assessment in June. Students will also engage in writing exercises that could move toward a personal statement. Students work on improving the thesis statement of their essays, logical development, and style. Works read may include Macbeth or Othello, and “shorter” pieces such as poetry, short fiction, and non-fiction. All grade 11 students must take the English Language Arts Common Core Regents assessment. Students in honors level courses exhibit intellectual curiosity, intellectual maturity, and a strong work ethic.

COURSES FOR GRADE 12

7795 – WRITING AND DISCOURSE

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grade 12

The primary aim of this course is to teach students how to write a variety of essays that may include the personal essay, narrative essays, and analysis of literary texts (such as poetry, the novel or other texts), informational essays, research writing, and the argumentative essay. Much of the writing will take place in the computer lab where instruction can be individualized. The course may also be further augmented with outside reading of fiction and non-fiction prose. The course culminates with a writing portfolio that has been constructed throughout the semester and counts as 20 percent of the course grade.

8790 – TEXTUAL STUDIES: FILM 

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grade 12

This course is designed to prepare seniors for the complex reading and analysis tasks related to the growing influence of film. Proficiency in visual literacy is an important element in preparing the 21st-century learner. By focusing on the cinematic techniques that directors use to shape a story, the course will teach students to explore the art of the film and the relationship between film and culture. Students will produce essays, give presentations, write scripts, develop storyboards, keep response journals, and contribute to electronic discussions (e.g. blogs). Students view films that span several decades and a variety of themes. Films may include Apocalypse Now, Psycho, Shawshank Redemption, Spirited Away, The Usual Suspects, Memento, L.A. Confidential, and The Graduate. (This course is not approved by the NCAA. Students considering playing D1 or D2 sports should choose Contemporary Literature or Poetry instead of Film.)

8794 – CONTEMPORARY LITERATURE

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grade 12

This course is designed to prepare seniors for the complex reading and analysis tasks related to contemporary literature. By focusing on the culture in which they were produced, students analyze a variety of contemporary fiction and non-fiction pieces published over the last 50 years. We will analyze plays, short fiction, film, graphic novels, TED talks, and various other performing and visual arts to augment the concentration on the social, cultural, and historical issues related to the literature of this time frame. Authors may include Alan Moore, David Lindsay-Abaire, Junot Diaz, Anne Lamott, and David Sedaris.

8785 – TEXTUAL STUDIES: POETRY

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 10-12

Alongside cave drawings, poetry is one of the oldest and most vital living art forms. Our earliest ancestors may not have written on paper, but they still made poetry, recited it, and used rhyme and meter to remember it. Now, poetry services a slightly different function. Poet Octavio Paz wrote, “The poem is a shell that echoes the music of the world.” He also wrote that poetry is “knowledge,” “salvation,” “liberation,” and “revolutionary” – in short, “poetry reveals the world.” This class will explore poetry from contemporary American writers and from writers around the globe and throughout history. Emphasis will be on reading and thinking about poetry, on discussing the lives and literary techniques of individual poets, on identifying and understanding work from various “schools” of poetry, and on individual interpretation of poetry text based on both personal experience and understanding of literary devices. Students may also ask for help with their own experiments in writing poetry. This course may be used as one of the required senior year courses in combination with Writing & Discourse.

7798/8798 – ADVANCED LANGUAGE & COMPOSITION – SUPA/AP

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grade 12

Advanced Language and Composition is Syracuse University Project Advance (SUPA) English with an Advanced Placement option. It is a college-level course that follows a curriculum sponsored and supervised by Syracuse University. Students who choose this course should have had experience in honors English courses. Since the course requires not only frequent writing but extensive textual analysis, students should have achieved a B+ or above in grade 11 honors English courses. A reading and writing assignment over the summer is part of the course requirement. 

Advanced Language and Composition is divided into two parts. The fall semester, Syracuse University’s Writing 105, provides an intensive experience in academic writing. Students work on formal and informal writing with an emphasis on the invention portfolio. The focus on academic writing includes lengthy, dense readings and longer papers totaling 3,000 to 5,000 words. This half of the course also concentrates on analysis of rhetorical techniques employed by writers. The second section is Syracuse University’s ENG 192: Gender and Literary Texts. The course examines literature through the lens of gender and other cultural constructions. Students write frequent short analytic essays and two in-depth textual analysis papers totaling 3,000 to 5,000 words. This section of the course will also include exam-specific activities designed to help students prepare for the AP Language and Composition exam in May.

Advanced Language and Composition offers students the opportunity to earn up to six hours of college English credit, advanced standing, or both credit and standing at the college they attend. Those who register for college credit pay a tuition fee for each semester to Syracuse University (certain enrollment limits must be met for Syracuse University to authorize the course). Students will receive a transcript directly from Syracuse University in addition to their high school transcript. The amount of credit and level of standing in college may also be based on the student’s performance on the Advanced Placement Language and Composition exam in May.

Prerequisite: English teacher’s recommendation.

7799/8799 – ADVANCED LITERATURE & COMPOSITION – AP

1 CREDIT EACH
40 WEEKS Grade 12

AP Advanced Literature and Composition assumes that the students have mastered the elements of composition and are prepared to use their writing skills to discuss literature. The course is organized on a seminar model allowing students the experience of exploring and organizing their responses to literature. A wide variety of important literary works are read from old and emerging canons of world literature, such as the novels of Austen, Bronte, Conrad, Dickens, and Morrison, plays by Shakespeare, Ibsen or Tom Stoppard and other modern playwrights, and short stories and poetry, both traditional and modern. Students have the opportunity to earn up to six hours of college English credit, advanced standing, or both credit and standing at the college they attend. Amount of credit and level of standing are based on the student’s performance on the Advanced Placement exam in May. Since the course requires frequent writing and extensive literary analysis, students choosing it should have achieved a B+ or above in eleventh grade honors English courses. A reading and writing assignment over the summer is part of the course requirement.

Prerequisite: English teacher’s recommendation.

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ELECTIVE COURSES

7701/8701 – WRITERS’ STUDIO

1/4 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 9-12

Alternate days

This course is designed to provide hands-on, one-on-one support using a variety of writing skills, including the principles of grammar, for any student who wants to strengthen their writing. Students receive individualized instruction and may bring writing to the studio that they are working on in English, Social Studies, independently, or other content areas. There are also some writing assignments generated within the studio itself. Students may take Writers’ Studio in either the fall or spring semester, or both, and can take it for two years, earning up to one credit towards their high school diploma. Use course numbers 7701 (Fall) and 8701 (Spring) to take Writers’ Studio all year.

8725 – JOURNALISM WORKSHOP

1/4 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 9-12

Students in Journalism Workshop explore the variety of print media for which journalists write, while learning editing and polishing skills. They choose and produce their own journalism projects such as features, sports articles, entertainment reviews, and more. Students also pursue news literacy, reading current news and learning about topics such as the evaluation of sources, the detection of bias, and the freedom of the press. This workshop fulfills the prerequisite for Broadcast Journalism. 

8726 – BROADCAST JOURNALISM & TELEVISION PRODUCTION WORKSHOP

1/2 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grades 9-12

Students in Broadcast Journalism and Television Production Workshop explore a variety of non-print media for which journalists write. They write for film and television, create and produce news shows, commercials, and in-depth programs. Students are responsible for producing a daily program that includes school announcements, current school events, and features. Students will also learn editing and polishing skills, technical aspects of broadcast production, and speaking in a public forum.

Alternate O/E days – Prerequisite: Journalism Workshop, Communication Systems or Senior Status.

7727 – ADVANCED BROADCAST JOURNALISM & FILM PRODUCTION WORKSHOP

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 10-12

Advanced Broadcast Journalism is designed to supplement the experience of Broadcast Journalism and Television Production Workshop. Students are responsible for production, direction or technical production of the daily program, as well as for special broadcast projects and assignments. Students in Advanced Broadcast Journalism are fluent in all areas of broadcast production, write and edit scripts and proposals for projects and maintain a working broadcast studio. Students will become familiar with several forms of digital editing and a variety of editing/publishing software. Students will also become comfortable analyzing and creating diverse genres of television and film. This workshop may be taken more than once.

Prerequisite: Broadcast Journalism & Television Production Workshop.

8895 – CREATIVE WRITING

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 10-12

Creative Writing is for serious students who are enthusiastic about generating, reworking and polishing prose or poetry. Students may then seek out interested publishers and submit typed copies for consideration. While narrative fiction and poetry are the primary focus of the course, other writing such as magazine articles, short subjects, or technical writing may be undertaken. Success in this class hinges upon regular and self-driven participation through active writing and the collective editing and sharing of ideas. This course may be taken more than once.

7770 – THEATER

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grades 9-12

Very few people in the theater spend their days sitting at a desk, so for most of this course we push our desks aside and get on our feet. Theater is a full-year survey course that explores many different aspects of theater. Time is devoted to acting, improvisation, mime, puppetry, storytelling, playwriting, theater history, script analysis, directing, and other activities. This course fulfills the Art/Music graduation requirement.

7780 – THE HISTORY & STRUCTURE OF THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 10-12

Our perceptions of the world, our thoughts, and our behaviors are all shaped by the language we use. Through hands-on activities, this course explores how language works, the social, political, and economic power of language, the nuances of how language can be utilized and other language-related issues. This course considers the origins and development of the English language,while gaining an understanding and appreciation of how language operates. This course examines English grammar and usage and concentrates on how our implicit understandings about language can be illuminated and analyzed. Other possible topics include non-verbal communication, language and the brain, dialects of American English, gender and language, and how the design features of language help us learn about how we think. Our examination of word origin and morphology is key to decoding meaning in language, a skill that is measured on the SAT and ACT.

7735 – THE RHETORIC OF RACE IN AMERICAN CULTURE

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 10-12

What is in a name? The course begins with an exploration into this question, as it relates to ethnic and racial identity. It then progresses from an inquiry into language as defining personal and social identity, to language, within it historical context, to language within its political context. Throughout the semester, students will explore the ways in which racial and ethnic issues are framed in our culture’s ongoing, collective conversations. Texts such as memoirs, essays, historic documents, documentaries, news articles, poetry, drama, advertisements, political cartoons, published speeches, cinematic texts, and fine art, will inform students’ considerations of the role language plays in shaping attitudes toward race and ethnicity. Students will have an opportunity to extend the dialogue across geographic boundaries through related field trips, when scheduling permits.

8787 – SUPA: WRITING CULTURE

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 11-12

SUPA Writing Culture is the equivalent to Syracuse University’s WRT 114. It is open to students interested in developing their writing skills and broadening their writing experiences beyond the academic essay. The course will focus on the reading and crafting of creative nonfiction pieces, which explore the truths within nonfiction stories, people, places, experiences and events while using techniques of creative writing. Students write texts experimenting with style, genre, and subject. This is the perfect course for students interested in writing who also want to have a college course experience. Those who choose to register for college credit pay a tuition fee and will have the opportunity to earn three college credits from Syracuse University.

Prerequisite: Creative Writing or English teacher’s recommendation.

8785 – TEXTUAL STUDIES: POETRY

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 10-12

Alongside cave drawings, poetry is one of the oldest and most vital living art forms. Our earliest ancestors may not have written on paper, but they still made poetry, recited it, and used rhyme and meter to remember it. Now, poetry services a slightly different function. Poet Octavio Paz wrote, “The poem is a shell that echoes the music of the world.” He also wrote that poetry is “knowledge,” “salvation,” “liberation,” and “revolutionary” – in short, “poetry reveals the world.” This class will explore poetry from contemporary American writers and from writers around the globe and throughout history. Emphasis will be on reading and thinking about poetry, on discussing the lives and literary techniques of individual poets, on identifying and understanding work from various “schools” of poetry, and on individual interpretation of poetry text based on both personal experience and understanding of literary devices. Students may also ask for help with their own experiments in writing poetry. Together with Writing & Discourse, this course can be used to meet the Senior Year English course requirement, only when taken in the Senior Year.

English Options

Electives – 1 or 1/2 credit

• Theater (1 credit)
• Journalism (1/2 credit)
• Broadcast Journalism (1/2 credit)
• Adv. Broadcast Journalism (1/2 credit)
• Creative Writing (1/2 credit)
• History & Structure of the English Language (1/2 credit)
• Rhetoric of Race in American Culture (1/2 credit)
• SUPA: Writing Culture (1/2 credit)
• Poetry (1/2 credit)

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Family and Consumer Sciences

Family and Consumer Sciences education empowers individuals and families across the lifespan to manage the challenges of living and working in a diverse global society. The unique focus is on families, work, and their interrelationships. Commencement level Family and Consumer Sciences education is delivered through a variety of course offerings in the Human and Public Services career cluster that can be arranged in a variety of pathways including Education, Food Science, Clothing & Textiles, and Housing & Environment. Each course carries one-half (1/2) unit of credit.

CLUSTERS

EDUCATION CLUSTER

For students considering careers in education, psychology, human services, health or family studies, the following courses are suggested:

• 0560 Child Development I – Infant (Preconception to one year)
• 0561 Child Development II – Child (One year to age five)
• 0565 Adolescent Psychology (Ages 12 to 21)

FOOD SCIENCE CLUSTER

Culinary classes are student-driven. Small kitchen groups allow students the opportunity to experience different jobs, encourage collaboration, and enhance organizational and communication skills. For students interested in a career in culinary arts, the food industry, hospitality, dietetics, nutrition, and health, the following courses are suggested:

• 0541 Culinary Arts I
• 0542 Culinary Arts II
• 0543 International Cuisine
• 0544 Food for Life

CLOTHING & TEXTILES AND HOUSING & ENVIRONMENT CLUSTERS

The following courses are suggested for students interested in exploring a career in the fashion industry designing fashions, textiles, costumes, accessories, as well as upcycling garments. Students also learn the marketing aspect of the industry and how fashion products are merchandised.

• 0554 Fashion Design & Clothing Production*
• 0556 Advanced Fashion Design

For students interested in careers in interior design, architecture, home staging, and/or theater set design, the following course is suggested.

• 0558 Interior Design Studio*

*Successful completion of Interior Design Studio and Fashion Design & Clothing Production fulfills the Art/Music requirement.

COURSES

0541 – CULINARY ARTS I

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 9-12

An introductory class, students learn kitchen safety and facility sanitation, prevention of foodborne illness through proper handling of foods, safe food preparation, storing, and reheating. This course gives students the chance to learn the principles and techniques of preparing quick breads, yeast breads, pies, cookies and cupcakes. Topics include: baking terminology, tools and equipment use, formula conversions, function of ingredients, history and use of spices.

0542 – CULINARY ARTS II

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 9-12

Students review kitchen safety and facility sanitation, prevention of foodborne illness through proper handling of foods, safe food preparation, storing, and reheating. This course is designed to teach basic fundamentals of cooking. Through hands-on lab experience, students will explore the steps for planning, learn how to scale recipes and engage in quality food preparation of appetizers, breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert! Topics include: meal planning, recipe terminology, mise en place, and equipment ID, care and uses.

0543 – INTERNATIONAL CUISINE

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 9-12

This course is designed to introduce students to the ways in which cultures and traditions influence food choices. Students will research, examine the issues and conditions which affect the availability and quality of food and identify and choose recipes that reflect the country studied.

0544 – FOOD FOR LIFE

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 9-12

This course is an intermediate culinary class focusing on nutritional basics, healthier alternative cooking, farm to table, meal planning, preparation and knife skills. If you want to learn how to cook from scratch using fresh, healthier ingredients, this class is a must!

0554 – FASHION DESIGN AND CLOTHING PRODUCTION*

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 9-12

This course offers students the opportunity to expand their skills in fashion design and clothing construction. Students will learn sewing techniques, machine operation, garment design and production. Students will work on a wide variety of projects while having the opportunity to work on projects of their choosing. Students will be expected to provide a variety of materials throughout the course (i.e. patterns, fabric and various notions)

*Successful completion of Interior Design Studio and Fashion Design & Clothing Production fulfills the Art/Music requirement.

0556 – ADVANCED FASHION DESIGN

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 9-12

This course is designed to prepare students for a career in the fashion industry. It will be heavily project based focusing on draping, creating patterns, and creating designs. Students will be expected to provide a variety of materials throughout the course (i.e. fabric and various notions).

Prerequisite: 0554

0558 – INTERIOR DESIGN STUDIO*

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 9-12

Are you a person who enjoys working with color? Do you like to rearrange furniture and design your own space? If you are interested in careers in interior design, architecture, home staging, and/or theater set design, this is the course for you! Students learn how to apply the elements and principles of design while learning how to draw floor plans, and room elevations. Students study different design styles and furniture styles, building construction, furniture placement all while learning how to meet the needs and wants of varied clients. An authentic design challenge is incorporated into the program allowing students real-life application of design principles. Some topics studied:

• Principles and elements of design
• Understand and develop color schemes, scale floor plans, wall elevations
• Design a client’s space
• Create scale models
• Study the career of set designer
• Trading Spaces Project
• Create home décor accessories

*Successful completion of Interior Design Studio and Fashion Design & Clothing Production fulfills the Art/Music requirement.

0560 – CHILD DEVELOPMENT I

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 9-12

This course explores the many factors related to the health and welfare of children from pre-conception to one year. Recommended for students who are interested in a career in the fields of psychology, social work, health care, medicine, education, childcare or wish to develop important parenting skills for the future. Students will:

• Learn how infants grow and develop physically, social, emotionally and intellectually
• Discuss and investigate issues in parenting, teen pregnancy, birth defects, heredity and traits, newborn care, infant brain development, etc.
• Parenting styles, skills, and readiness
• Infant/parenting simulator or parenting research project
• Fun Fridays, which include observation of guest infants, baby food lab, child development projects that will engage infants socially, emotionally, physically and intellectually.
• Infant Toy Creation Project and/or Infant Soft Book Creation

0561 – CHILD DEVELOPMENT II

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 9-12

Students interested in a career in the fields of psychology, social work, health care, medicine, education, childcare or want to develop parenting skills for the future would benefit from this course. The program studies the child from age 1 to 5. Early reading literacy is embedded in the course, as are ways to get children physically moving with song and dance. Students will:

• Learn how children ages 1 to 5 grow and develop physically, socially, emotionally, and intellectually.
• Investigate and prepare healthy snacks for young children
• Plan and prepare a Fun Friday “play day” lesson to include a story, physical activity, and craft project that would engage and develop the young child socially, emotionally, intellectually and physically.Fun Friday projects include coloring eggs, creating puppets to engage children in social and moral development, healthy snack challenge, making ice cream, home-made play dough, and more. Students have the opportunity to observe and engage with guest toddlers.
• Write and illustrate a children’s book

0565 – ADOLESCENT PSYCHOLOGY

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 9-12

Students will learn how adolescent brain development impacts decision making, risk taking, emotions, and more. Students focus on understanding the needs and motivations of teenagers and discuss the challenges they face within their social, emotional, physical and intellectual growth. Improving communication and relationships is an important component, as well. Students considering a career in education, psychology, the medical field, counseling, and social work should take this class. A variety of hands-on and group activities are included in the course. Some learning topics/activities include: Theorist Project/Theorist Party; understanding stress and creating a stress management plan; the History of the Teenager Creative Book Project; adolescent brain development and how it impacts teen sleep patterns/deprivation; teen dating violence; social mores and norms/“How to Raise a Moral Teen;” getting out of your “box”/self-esteem project and the psychology of self-concept; Fun Friday Discussion Days/Teen issues; and discussing the different schools of psychology.

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Health

The health decisions you made yesterday or this morning have a lot to do with how you feel this very minute. The fact is that your personal health for the rest of your life is largely determined by you. It is true that some factors influencing your health are out of your control. However, most choices and decisions affecting your health are yours to make.

0485 – HEALTH EDUCATION

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 9-12

This course is designed to provide health information in such a way that it influences students to take positive actions about their health. Health education provides information and skills that guide students towards being better decision makers. Students learn to make appropriate health choices that enable them to lead a quality of life that is beneficial to their health and well-being. Students gain self-awareness through a variety of instructional strategies that promote making health choices and practicing healthy behaviors.

A health course goal is for each student to become a proactive learner so that they may become a productive citizen and live their life to the fullest.

Topics addressed are holistic health and wellness dimensions, mental health and illness, stress management, licit and illicit substance use and abuse, nutrition and fitness, first aid, disease prevention (including information about sexually transmitted infections and HIV/AIDS) and environmental issues. Also covered is information on family life issues. Students will learn about relationships, pregnancy, birth, parenting, aging, dying and grieving and the umbrella that covers life and living life in general. Successful completion of this course is required for high school graduation.

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Mathematics

The Mathematics Department offers a variety of courses at each grade level to maintain interest and to encourage students of all abilities to continue their study of mathematics. -All students must earn a minimum of three math credits and pass at least one math Regents exam as a requirement for graduation. One credit of Computer Science may be used to fulfill one of the required credits in math. To earn the Advanced Regents Diploma, students must pass the Algebra 1, Geometry and Algebra 2 Regents exams, in addition to earning three math credits. Graphing calculators are required in all courses.

A number of factors facilitate academic success for students, including proficiency in basic skills, ability to retain and build upon previously learned material, effective organization skills, positive work habits, and a willingness to seek assistance when necessary. In addition, there are individual attributes that correlate with success in Honors-level math classes. These include being self-motivated, enjoying challenges, the ability to reason abstractly, make inferences, and manage time well. Students who choose Honors-level courses are expected to exhibit higher levels of intellectual curiosity and maturity, and to solve more complex problems than students in the Regents level courses. To maximize the chance of success, it is recommended that parents and students give careful consideration to these and other factors when selecting courses.

Courses

0111 – ALGEBRA A1

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

Algebra A1 is the first year of the two-year Algebra A1/A2 program. The course is designed to enable students to successfully complete the state mandate that all students pass the Algebra 1 Regents exam as a requirement for graduation. This course focuses on equations, linear functions, systems of equations, sequences and exponential functions as outlined by the NYS Next Generation standards. Local final in June.

0112 – ALGEBRA A2

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

Algebra A2 is the second year of the two-year Algebra A1/A2 program. This course is designed to enable students to successfully pass the Algebra 1 Regents exam as a requirement for graduation. Topics of study include statistics, quadratic equations, and modeling with functions, as outlined in the NYS Next Generation standards. Algebra 1 Regents exam in June.

Prerequisite: Passing grade in Algebra A1.

0115 – ALGEBRA 1 – Regents

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

This course leads to the mandated Algebra 1 Regents exam. Topics include linear, quadratic, and exponential functions, solving equations and inequalities, and statistics, as outlined in the NYS Next Generation standards. Algebra 1 Regents exam in June.

Prerequisite: 75 or higher in Math 8.

0116 – ALGEBRA 1 – Honors

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

This course includes all topics covered in Algebra 1 Regents and additional enrichment topics. Students who choose Honors level courses are expected to exhibit higher levels of intellectual curiosity and maturity, and to solve more complex problems than students in Regents level courses. Algebra 1 Regents exam and local final in June.

Prerequisite: 90 or higher in Math 8; Teacher recommendation.

0128 – GEOMETRY

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

This course is for students who have passed the Algebra 1 Regents exam and equivalent coursework. Topics of study include Euclidean geometry, trigonometry, analytic geometry, transformations, and measurement. Students enrolled in this course have the option of taking the Geometry Regents exam. Local final in June.

Prerequisite: Passing Grade in Algebra.

0139 – GEOMETRY – Regents

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

This course is the second of three leading to an Advanced Regents Diploma. Topics of study include Euclidean geometry (including an emphasis on formal proof), trigonometry, analytic geometry, transformations and additional topics as outlined in the New York State Next Generation standards. Geometry Regents exam in June.

Prerequisite: 75 or higher in Algebra 1.

0140 – GEOMETRY – Honors

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

This course, for students enrolled in the Honors sequence, is the second of three leading to the Advanced Regents Diploma. The course includes all the topics of study in Geometry Regents and additional enrichment topics. Students who choose Honors level courses are expected to exhibit higher levels of intellectual curiosity and maturity and to solve more complex problems than students in Regents level courses. Geometry Regents exam and local final in June.

Prerequisite: 87 or higher in Algebra 1H or 90+ in Algebra 1R in 8th grade; Teacher recommendation.

0155 – Introductory Statistics and Probability

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

Students will explore categorical and numerical data and rules of probability in the context of real-world problems and activities. Students will apply what they learn to make decisions and predictions and to validate statistical claims. Local final in June.

Prerequisite: Passing grade in Algebra 1 or Algebra A2; passing grade on Algebra 1 Regents exam.

0124 – ALGEBRA 2 with TRIGONOMETRY

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

This course is for students who have completed a Geometry course and wish to continue their study of college preparatory mathematics. This course covers 2/3 of the Algebra 2 Regents curriculum and includes linear and quadratic functions, irrational and complex numbers, polynomial functions, rational expressions, exponential and logarithmic function, and trigonometry. Local final in June.

Prerequisite: Passing grade in Geometry R or 80 or higher in Topics in Geometry.

0131 – ALGEBRA 2 – Regents

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

This course is the third of three leading to an Advanced Regents Diploma. This is a fast-paced, rigorous course and the level of abstraction required is much higher than that of previous math courses. Topics of study include algebra, rational expressions, complex numbers, functions, trigonometry, logarithms, probability, statistics, series and sequences, and additional topics as outlined in the New York State Next Generation standards. Algebra 2 Regents exam in June.

Prerequisite: 80 or higher in Geometry Regents, 80 or higher on both the Algebra 1 and Geometry Regents exams.

0132 – ALGEBRA 2 – Honors

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

This course includes all topics covered in Algebra 2 and additional topics for enrichment. Students who choose Honors level courses are expected to exhibit higher levels of intellectual curiosity and maturity, and to solve more complex problems than students in Regents level courses. Algebra 2 Regents exam and local final in June.

Prerequisite: 87 or higher in Geometry Honors, 85 or higher on both the Geometry Regents exam and the Geometry Honors final; Teacher recommendation.

0144 – PRECALCULUS WITH STATISTICS AND PROBABILITY

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

This course covers the last 1/3 of the Common Core Algebra 2 with Trig curriculum and introduces Precalculus material. Topics of study include probability, statistics, transformations, series and sequences, and rates of change. Algebra 2 Regents exam in January, local final in June.

Prerequisite: Passing grade in Algebra 2 with Trigonometry.

0145 – PRECALCULUS

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

This course is designed for students who, after completing a Regents sequence, wish to develop the additional background recommended for a Calculus course. The purpose of this course is to improve problem-solving skills, explore alternative solutions to problems, and help students to become independent critical thinkers. Topics of study include mathematical modeling, linear motion, functions, exponential functions, transformations, logarithms, and trigonometry. Local final in June.

Prerequisite: 77 or higher in Algebra 2R; passing grade on Algebra 2 Regents exam.

0146 – PRECALCULUS – Honors

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

This is the fourth course for students in the accelerated honors sequence. It covers Precalculus topics and roughly 1/5 of the AP Calculus BC curriculum. Topics of study include polynomial and rational functions, trig functions and identities, series and sequences, polar functions, parametric functions, vectors, conic sections, limits, and differential calculus. Local final in June.

Prerequisite: 87 or higher in Algebra 2 Honors; 80 or higher on both the Algebra 2 Regents exam and Algebra 2 Honors final.

0151 – CALCULUS – SUPA

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

Students in this course will learn the fundamentals of differential and integral calculus and their applications. Four units of Syracuse University credit (accepted as transfer credit at a number of colleges) may be earned. Students electing to do so register and pay a tuition fee to Syracuse University. The course will appear as Syracuse University Project Advance (SUPA) on the student’s transcript. Local final in June.

Prerequisite: 85 or higher in Precalculus; Teacher recommendation.

0152 – CALCULUS BC – AP

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

Advanced Placement Calculus BC is a fast-paced, rigorous course which covers, in depth, the elements of differential and integral calculus, as well as series and sequences. College credit or advanced standing may be granted on the basis of a student’s score on the AP exam offered in May.

Prerequisite: 87 or higher in Precalculus Honors; Teacher recommendation.

0156 – STATISTICS – SUPA

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

The primary objective of this course is to provide students with knowledge of elementary probability and statistics. Students learn basic concepts of descriptive statistics, data collection, probability, and random variables, and how to use statistical inference, including estimation, hypothesis testing, inferences involving two populations, Chi-square tests, regression analysis, and ANOVA. Graphing calculator used. Seven units of Syracuse University credit (accepted as transfer credit at a number of colleges) may be earned in SU courses MAT 221 and MAT 222. Students electing to do so register and pay a tuition fee to Syracuse University. The course will appear as Syracuse University Project Advance (SUPA) on the student’s transcript. Local finals in January and June.

Prerequisite: 80 or higher in Algebra 2 Regents course; 75 or higher on the Algebra 2 Regents exam.

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Music

The music department offers a variety of opportunities for all students, including bands, orchestras, choirs, and music theory. All music courses, except Voice Class, may be used to fulfill the one unit of Art/Music required for graduation. Students desiring a five-unit sequence in music must take at least three units of performance (Band, Orchestra, Choir) plus Studio Music & Music Theory II, and AP Music Theory.

Courses

0600 – Studio Music

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 9-12

Studio Music is an introductory music theory course in which students will develop skills and understanding of written music theory within a technology rich environment. Topics include notation, rhythm, scales, key signatures, intervals, chords, and melody writing. Students will also develop the necessary skills to complete projects using music software such as Garageband, Noteflight, and Audacity. Students do not need any music background in order to sign up for this course. This course is a prerequisite for Music Theory II.

0601 – MUSIC THEORY II

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 9-12

This curriculum is a continuation of the concepts from Studio Music. Students will focus on tonal harmony, both in writing and analysis. This course is required for those who want a sequence in music.

Prerequisite: 75 or higher in Studio Music or permission of instructor.

0602 – MUSIC THEORY III – AP

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grades 10-12

This course offers additional instruction that prepares students to take the AP Music Theory exam in May. A large component of this class is ear training and sight singing.

Prerequisite: Music Theory II or permission of instructor.

0627 – SYMPHONIC BAND

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grades 9-12

This is the course for 9th grade students who have participated in the middle school band program or who can demonstrate reasonable proficiency on a band instrument. The Symphonic Band consists of all wind (woodwind and brass) and percussion instruments. The band performs a wide selection of musical compositions throughout the year. In-school instrumental lessons are required as a part of this program. Wind and percussion players in String Orchestra are selected from Symphonic Band. Membership in Concert Band, Symphonic Band or Wind Ensemble is required to participate in Jazz Band or Jazz Ensemble (excluding guitar, piano and bass). Wind Ensemble and Concert Band members may also take Symphonic Band.

Prerequisite: Permission of the Director.

0610 – CONCERT BAND

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grades 10-12

This is the course for students in grade 10-12 who have participated in Symphonic Band. The Concert Band consists of all wind (woodwind and brass) and percussion instruments. The band performs a wide selection of musical compositions throughout the year. In-school instrumental lessons are required as a part of this program. Wind and percussion players in Concert Orchestra are selected from Concert Band. Membership in Concert Band, Symphonic Band or Wind Ensemble is required to participate in Jazz Band or Jazz Ensemble (excluding guitar, piano and bass). Wind Ensemble members may also take Concert Band.

Prerequisite: Permission of the Director.

0612 – WIND ENSEMBLE

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grades 9-12

The Wind Ensemble, which meets daily, is a select group of wind, brass, and percussion players whose membership is determined by an audition. The audition takes place in March of each year. Students not selected for the Wind Ensemble take Concert Band or Symphonic Band. In-school instrumental lessons are required as a part of the Wind Ensemble program. The Wind Ensemble performs a wide selection of musical compositions throughout the year. Wind and percussion players in Symphony Orchestra are selected from Wind Ensemble. Membership in Concert Band, Symphonic Band, or Wind Ensemble is required to participate in Jazz Band or Jazz Ensemble (guitar, piano and bass excluded). Wind Ensemble members may also take Concert Band or Symphonic Band. This course is not available alternate days.

Prerequisite: Audition and Permission of the Director.

0629 – STRING ORCHESTRA

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grades 9-12

String Orchestra meets daily and performs many types of music, including classical and popular, throughout the year. In-school instrumental lessons are required as a part of this program. Membership in String Orchestra, Concert Orchestra or Symphony Orchestra is required to be a member of Chamber Orchestra. All ninth grade string players will be placed in String Orchestra. Symphony Orchestra and Concert Orchestra members may also take String Orchestra. Bass players interested in Jazz Band or Jazz Ensemble must be members of String Orchestra, Concert Orchestra, or Symphony Orchestra.

Prerequisite: Permission of the Director.

0630 – CONCERT ORCHESTRA: Strings

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grades 10-12

Concert Orchestra Strings meet daily and may be joined by the Winds, Brass and Percussion twice a week to form a full orchestra. The orchestra performs many types of music, including classical and popular, throughout the year. In-school instrumental lessons are required as a part of this program. Membership in String Orchestra, Concert Orchestra or Symphony Orchestra is required to be a member of Chamber Orchestra. Symphony Orchestra members may also take Concert Orchestra. Bass players interested in Jazz Band or Jazz Ensemble must be members of String Orchestra, Concert Orchestra, or Symphony Orchestra.

Prerequisite: Permission of the Director.

0632 – SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA: Strings

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grades 10-12

The Symphony Orchestra, which meets daily, is a select group of string players. They are joined by the Winds, Brass, and Percussion to form a full orchestra. Membership is determined by audition. The audition typically takes place in March each year. Students not selected for Symphony Orchestra will take Concert Orchestra. Symphony Orchestra performs a variety of music throughout the year. In-school instrumental lessons are required as part of this program. Students must be enrolled in String or Concert Orchestra at the time of auditioning for Symphony Orchestra. Membership in String Orchestra, Concert Orchestra, or Symphony Orchestra is required to audition for Chamber Orchestra. Bass players interested in Jazz Band or Jazz Ensemble must be members of String Orchestra, Concert Orchestra, or Symphony Orchestra. This course is not available alternate days.

Prerequisite: Audition and Permission of the Director.

0634 – CONCERT CHOIR

1/2 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grades 9-12

Those who love to sing should sign up for Concert Choir. Rehearsals emphasize vocal techniques, sight reading and a general study of choral music as an art form. Students will learn how to breathe to create a better, healthier sound. Students must be enrolled in a curricular choir in order to audition for Swing and/or A Cappella Choir.

Alternate days

0635 – VOICE CLASS

1/2 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grades 9-12

In this course, vocal techniques and solo literature are studied. Broadway, Classical, Jazz and Pop solos are included in the repertoire.

Alternate days

0639 – CHORALE

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grades 10-12

The Chorale, which meets daily, is a select group of vocalists whose membership is determined by audition, which typically takes place in March. Chorale performs a variety of music from Baroque to Modern. Students learn the concepts of blend, ear training and good vocal technique. Students are required to sight sing every day. Students must be enrolled in a curricular choir in order to audition for Swing 16 and/or A Cappella Choir. This course is not available alternate days.

Prerequisite: Audition and permission of the Director.

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Physical Education

The Department of Physical Education offers four years of physical education to meet graduation requirements. It is a program that provides an emphasis on lifetime sports, lifetime fitness and some team sports. Students in 9th and 10th grade are on a track system where they are exposed to a new unit every six classes. This gives them an opportunity over two years to be exposed to a variety of activities and find what activities they enjoy and in which they can be successful. Students in 11th and 12th grade choose semester-long units twice a year. These units are categorized by the type of activities offered in them.

The curriculum is designed to:

• Promote physical activity and the attainment of physical fitness and a desire to maintain physical fitness throughout life;
• Attain competency in the management of the body and useful physical skills;
• Emphasize safety practices;
• Motivate expression and communication;
• Promote individual and group understand;
• Provide opportunities for the exercise of student initiative, leadership and responsibility;
• Reinforce basic learning of other areas of the total school curriculum; and
• Provide the opportunity to learn and participate in lifetime activities.

All students must attend and participate in the school plan for physical education. Individual medical certificates of limitation must indicate the area of the program in which the student may not participate. Students not able to participate are assigned alternative activities/projects under the supervision of department staff members.

Units included in 9th and 10th grade may include, but are not limited to:

Semester units include, but are not limited to:

Units included in 11th and 12th grade may include, but are not limited to:

Courses

0592 – 0593 – PHYSICAL EDUCATION

1/4 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 9-10

Alternate days

0572 – 0573 – PHYSICAL EDUCATION

1/4 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 11-12

Alternate days

0585 – PHYSICAL EDUCATION

1/2 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grades 9-12

This course is designed for students with disabilities and is modified to fit the needs of those participating.

Alternate days

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Science

In our technological age, science literacy is more important than ever. This is true regardless of one’s interests or anticipated career. All students should seriously consider taking four or five years of science at some level. The science department offers a variety of courses at each level to provide for the specific needs and desires of each student.

All science courses ending in a Regents exam carry a laboratory requirement. This includes performing a minimum of 1200 minutes of laboratory exercises and/or required investigations, and submitting acceptable written reports based on those exercises. Failure to meet the minimum laboratory requirements prevents the student from taking the Regents exam, and may result in a failing grade.

Teacher recommendations regarding course selection have been shown to accurately predict success.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENT FOR GRADUATION

• Complete three credits in Science
• Pass two courses which include:
  • One from Life Science and one from Physical Science
• Pass one Regents exam for a Regents diploma or two Regents exams for an Advanced Regents Diploma

FIRST YEAR OF SCIENCE

LIFE SCIENCES: BIOLOGY

• 0202 Biology
• 0201 Biology Regents

SECOND YEAR OF SCIENCE

EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCES

• 0246 Earth and Space Sciences Regents
• 0249 Earth and Space Sciences Honors

THIRD AND FOURTH YEARS OF SCIENCE

PHYSICAL SCIENCES

• 0212 Chemistry (Local exam only)
• 0211 Chemistry Regents
• 0210 Chemistry Honors
• 0230 Physical Science
• 0221 Physics (Local exam only)
• 0220 Physics Regents
• 0218 AP Physics 1

SCIENCE ELECTIVES

• 0203 Anatomy, Physiology and Epidemiology (APE)
• 0204 AP Biology
• 0247 Topics in Environmental Studies
• 0208 Human Physiology
• 0209 AP Chemistry
• 0216 AP Physics C Mechanics
• 0222 Observational Astronomy
• 0224 Forensic Science
• 0248 Environmental Studies (SUNY ESF)
• 0237 Meteorology

FIRST YEAR OF SCIENCE COURSES

0202 – BIOLOGY

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

7 1/2 periods/week

Biology is a course for students who are continuing to develop their science related skills. It is designed to enable students to successfully complete the state mandate that all students pass one Regents exam in science. The course focuses on seven major topics: diversity of living things, genetics, evolution, reproduction and development, maintenance of homeostasis, ecology and human impacts on the environment. Laboratory experiences and hands-on activities are designed to illustrate the course concepts. Final exam- NYS Regents.

0201 – BIOLOGY – Regents

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

7 1/2 periods/week

This is a traditional laboratory course. The course focuses on seven major topics: diversity of living things, genetics, evolution, reproduction and development, maintenance of homeostasis, ecology, and human impacts on the environment. Laboratory exercises are designed to illustrate and reinforce course topics. Final exam – NYS Regents.

SECOND YEAR OF SCIENCE COURSES

0246 – EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCES – Regents

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

7 1/2 periods/week

This is a laboratory oriented class that will meet the new NYS Science Learning Standards for students who have proficient to above average academic skills, particularly in reading and math. Emphasis is placed on open-ended lab investigations during which the student discovers key concepts to be further developed during subsequent class discussions. Major topics are modern astronomy, plate tectonics, weather, climate and human impacts on the environment. Final exam – NYS Regents.

0249 – EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCES – Honors

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

7 1/2 periods/week

This course provides an in-depth exploration of Earth and Space Science, aligning with the NYS Science Learning Standards . Students will investigate topics such as Earth’s systems, weather and climate, geological processes, plate tectonics, astronomy, and environmental interactions through an inquiry-based approach. Emphasis is placed on understanding scientific concepts, data analysis, critical thinking, and application to real-world issues.

The honors curriculum challenges students to engage deeply with scientific content through: Rigorous labs and investigations using advanced methods and tools, higher-level problem-solving and analytical skills, and integration of cross-cutting concepts and engineering practices in science.

This course also prepares students for advanced science coursework by fostering skills in scientific argumentation, technical writing, and independent learning. Final exam – NYS Regents.

THIRD AND FOURTH YEAR OF SCIENCE COURSES

0212 – CHEMISTRY

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

7 1/2 periods/week

The purpose of the course is to help students realize the important role that chemistry will play in their personal and professional lives. Students will use chemistry principles to think with more insight about current issues they will encounter that involve science and technology. Students will develop a lifelong awareness of the potential and limitations of science and technology. Laboratory work and lab reports are related to the above purposes. Final assessment – Local.

Prerequisite – Successful completion of Algebra A2 or higher.

0211 – CHEMISTRY – Regents

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

7 1/2 periods/week

This is a course for students considering any type of science major or minor in college, a science or health-related career. Students should have a strong interest in science and understand that chemistry is a demanding course that requires daily homework. The units covered include: matter and energy, atomic concepts, chemical bonding, the periodic table, mathematics of chemistry, kinetics and equilibrium, acids, bases and salts, oxidation-reduction, basic organic chemistry, and nuclear chemistry. Laboratory work and lab reports are included to fulfill NYS Regents requirements. Final exam – NYS Regents.

Corequisite – Geometry or higher

0210 – CHEMISTRY – Honors

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

7 1/2 periods/week

This course is designed for those students who are outstanding in science, have strong math skills and would like to take an enriched chemistry course. The units covered in this course follow the Regents Chemistry curriculum with enriched content using higher level mathematical skills. Laboratory work and written lab reports are included to fulfill NYS Regents requirements. Final exam – NYS Regents and Local Exams.

Corequisite – Geometry R or higher

0230 – PHYSICAL SCIENCE

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

5 periods/week

This course includes 1/2 year of physics and 1/2 year of chemistry. It is designed for the student who recognizes the need to understand the science of our everyday world. The physics units include: measurement and motion, gravity, forces, work, power and energy. The chemistry units include: matter and its changes, atomic structure, periodic table, solutions, acids and bases. These topics in physics and chemistry are reinforced with related laboratory experiments. Problem-solving that requires basic math skills is included. Final assessment – Local/Project based.

0221 – PHYSICS

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

5 periods/week

This conceptual physics course is designed for students who wish to round out their science literacy with a full course in physics, including laboratory experiences. A “concepts before math” approach is used to provide an understanding of topics in mechanics, electricity and magnetism, waves and light. Students will investigate through hands-on activities concepts of motion, Newton’s Laws, forces, electric charge and circuits. Students will be able to answer questions like, “Why do astronauts experience weightlessness?” and, “How do we receive electricity in our homes?” Final assessment – Local.

0220 – PHYSICS – Regents

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

7 1/2 periods/week

This course is designed for those students who are outstanding in science, have strong math skills, and would like to take an enriched physics course. Physics should be considered a must for any student thinking of majoring in science in college. The units covered in this course follow the Regents Physics curriculum and could be considered a preparatory course for AP Physics. Students must be proficient in algebra, since much of the problem solving in the course involves algebraic equations. Physics is the science that studies the interaction of matter and energy throughout our universe. The four major topics covered include: mechanics, electricity and magnetism, waves and light, and modern physics. Laboratory work allows students to actively discover the laws of physics in these areas. Final assessment – Local, NYS Regents optional.

Prerequisite – Algebra 2R or Algebra 2H

0218 – PHYSICS I – AP

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

7 1/2 periods/week

AP Physics 1 students will explore principles of Newtonian mechanics (including fluid statics and dynamics, linear and rotational kinematics and dynamics, energy, mechanical waves, and sound). This course is equivalent to a first semester college physics course. The course involves extensive inquiry-based investigations and problem solving to prepare the students for the AP Physics 1 (non-calculus) exam in May. The AP Physics 1 exam may serve as a basis for credit and/or exemption for a freshman college physics course. Final assessment – Local. NYS Regents, optional.

Prerequisite – Algebra 2R or Algebra 2H

0216 – PHYSICS C MECHANICS – AP

1 1/2 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

10 periods/week

This course, intended for students interested in preparing for a career in the sciences (especially engineering, physics, and/or physics education), combines AP Physics 1 with an additional class period every other day to enrich the AP Physics 1 curriculum in order to expose the student to additional physics and math concepts and to prepare the student for either the AP Physics 1 (non-calculus) exam and/or the AP C Mechanics (calculus based) exam in May. The pace is coordinated with Calculus BC. The AP Physics C Mechanics exam may serve as a basis for credit and/or exemption for a freshman calculus-based college physics course. Final assessment – Local. NYS Regents, optional.

Corequisite – Calculus (BC or SUPA)

ELECTIVES

0203 – Anatomy, Physiology and Epidemiology (APE)

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS

5 periods/week

This course is intended for Regents level science students or higher who are interested in health related professions. This is an advanced course in anatomy and physiology with a focus on organ and body system function and diseases and their spread. This course covers major organ systems, their interactions and malfunctions. Laboratory work allows the student to take an active role in discovering the principles of anatomy, physiology and epidemiology. Final assessment – Local.

Prerequisite – successful completion of Regents Biology and completion or current enrollment in Regents Chemistry or higher. 

0204 – BIOLOGY – AP

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

7 1/2 periods/week

This is college freshman biology for science majors. It is appropriate for outstanding students who are strong in science, especially chemistry and math. In preparation for the AP Biology exam, students will be responsible for extensive reading of material beyond class lectures and labs. The AP exam serves as a basis for credit and/or exemption of up to 8 college credits in freshman biology in many colleges nationwide. Final assessment – Local.

Prerequisite – Successful completion of Biology 0200 or 0201 and Chemistry 0210 or 0211 and teacher recommendation.

0247 – TOPICS IN ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS

5 periods/week

This course is an introduction into environmental studies, which investigates natural ecosystems and human interactions with the environment. It is intended for students who have successfully completed Biology (0202). Topics include but are not limited to: principles of ecology (natural ecosystems, food webs, biodiversity, keystone species), overuse of natural resources, pollution, loss of biodiversity, environmental racism, energy, and climate change. We will also explore sustainable and equitable solutions to environmental issues. Final assessment- Local.

0208 – HUMAN PHYSIOLOGY

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS

5 periods/week

This is an introductory course about the human body. It is intended for students who have completed Biology (0202). This course covers the major organ systems of the human body. Laboratory work allows the student to take an active role in discovering the structure of the body and functions of the various systems. Final assessment – Local.

0209 – CHEMISTRY – AP

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

7 1/2 periods/week

This is a college freshman level course mainly intended for students who have successfully completed Honors Chemistry (0210). This course is designed for students who excel in chemistry and math – in addition to having a good work ethic. The course involves extensive laboratory work, readings, and lectures that prepare the student for the AP Chemistry exam in May. The AP exam serves as a basis for credit and/or exemption for freshman college chemistry. Final assessment – Local.

Prerequisites – Chemistry 0210, co-requisite Algebra 2R, Algebra 2H or higher. 

0222 – OBSERVATIONAL ASTRONOMY

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS

5 periods/week

This is an inquiry oriented, descriptive astronomy course, based on National Science Education Standards Project 2061, in which students learn how to become amateur astronomers. Topics include pseudoscience vs. science, constellations, observational technology, models of the universe, the origin of the solar system, stars and galaxies. Students will observe and record celestial objects using the naked eye, binoculars and telescopes. They will identify the main constellations visible in the northern hemisphere as well as analyze the motions of the Sun, Moon, and planets in the planetarium and outdoors during night labs at the observatory. Final assessment – Local.

Prerequisite – Successful completion of Earth & Space Sciences and Algebra A1 or higher.

0224 – FORENSIC SCIENCE

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS

5 periods/week

Prerequisite – Successful completion of Biology and Chemistry.

This is an introductory course in forensic science. Students will apply their background knowledge from biology and chemistry to the analysis of simulated crime scene evidence. Major topics will include: the crime scene, forensic serology, fingerprints, impression evidence, document examination, drug chemistry, toxicology and trace evidence. Final assessment – Local.

0248 – ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES (ESF)

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

5 periods/week

Environmental Studies is a research-based college level social science elective offered as part of a dual enrollment program through SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry. This introductory environmental studies course utilizes a holistic approach to understanding environmental issues, therefore integrating concepts from ecology, biology, earth science, history, culture, ethics, and policy. Environmental ethics is the centralizing theme for this course. Students can expect significant discussion regarding natural resources, pollution, climate change, environmental injustice, and environmental racism. This course will involve a substantial amount of primary and secondary research on our quest to understand environmental issues from all perspectives and establish equitable solutions that promote a sustainable future for all.

Environmental Studies is a full year college course comprised of EFB 120: Global Environment & ESF 298: Research Apprenticeship. Students taking this course have the opportunity to earn 6 college credits if they choose to register for the courses through SUNY ESF and pay tuition. All course requirements are the same, whether the student enrolls in the course of college credit or high school credit. Final assessment – Local.

Target Audience: This is a research-based college course and therefore is intended for hardworking and high-achieving students who are willing and able to commit to a rigorous, research-based college course. In addition to environmental issues, students should be interested in ethics (and the different conversations/discussions that can lead to) and be prepared to undertake a considerable amount of primary and secondary research.

Prerequisites -Regents Earth and Space Sciences and Regents Biology (or higher) and be currently enrolled in or have successfully completed Regents Chemistry (or higher). 

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Social Studies

Social Studies is the integrated study of the social sciences and humanities intended to promote civic competence. The focus of the Fayetteville-Manlius High School Social Studies program is on concept and skill mastery through investigation of content appropriate to each course of study. Social Studies draws upon such disciplines as anthropology, archaeology, economics, geography, history, law, philosophy, political science, psychology, religion, belief systems, and sociology. The primary purpose of Social Studies is to help young people develop the ability to make informed and reasoned decisions for the public good as citizens of a culturally diverse, democratic society in an interdependent world.

F-M’s program is grounded in the Common Core Learning Standards and the five New York State Learning Standards for Social Studies, which are:

1. History of the United States and New York
2. World History
3. Geography
4. Economics
5. Civics, Citizenship and Government

All students are required to earn four units of Social Studies in order to graduate.

Requirements in Social Studies

Global History & Geography 9; Global History & Geography 10; United States History & Government 11; Participation in Government and Economics 12.

Electives in Social Studies

Anthropology, Psychology, SUPA Psychology, Sociology, SUPA Sociology, AP Comparative Government, Facing Genocide, US Military History, and AP European History. All electives are one semester in length with the exception of AP European History and AP Comparative Government, which are full-year courses.

Honors

The Social Studies curriculum is offered at the honors, AP or SUPA level. Students can expect that required content will be approached at an accelerated pace with an emphasis on skill development and enrichment. Students who wish to participate in honors level courses regularly exhibit the following traits:

• Intellectual curiosity,as demonstrated by consistent engagement with the content and a willingness to investigate topics beyond their surface;
• Intellectual maturity,as demonstrated by the ability to work independently on reading and writing assignments to allow for robust class discussion and critical analysis;
• A strong work ethic,as demonstrated by on time completion of rigorous coursework.

Minimum Graduation Requirement: 4 credits

Social Studies Electives – 1/2 Credit Each

• Anthropology; U.S. Military History
• Facing Genocide
• Psychology
• Sociology
• SUPA Psychology
• SUPA Sociology
• AP Comparative Politics (1 credit)
• AP European History (1 credit)

GRADE NINE – GENERAL COURSE INFORMATION

Global History and Geography 9 approaches world history chronologically with an emphasis on historical thinking skills. Units of study in line with New York State Framework will include: The First Civilizations; Classical Societies; An Age of Expanding Connections; and Global Interactions. This course provides the foundation for the study of modern world history in 10th grade and its required Regents exam.

0001 – GLOBAL HISTORY & Geography 9 – Humanities

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grade 9

This Regents-level course is taught in conjunction with English 9 (7704), designed for students whose reading and writing skills are still developing, and who do not receive other academic support during the school day. The Regents curriculum is followed at a slower pace in order to prepare students for the 10th grade social studies curriculum, and ultimately the Global History & Geography Regents exam taken in 10th grade. Final assessment – Local.

By middle school recommendation only

0002 – GLOBAL HISTORY & GEOGRAPHY 9 – Regents

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grade 9

Students are engaged in the exploration of several aspects of social science including anthropology, geography, and political philosophy, not just history. Students experience history and culture through a range of activities including textbook and primary source reading, debates, role-plays, class projects and presentations and film studies. Important skills like writing, critical analysis, research and organization are emphasized. Students develop an appreciation for diversity and global citizenship, as well as an intellectual curiosity important to their high school career. Final assessment – Local.

0003 – GLOBAL HISTORY & GEOGRAPHY 9 – Interdisciplinary Honors

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grade 9

This course follows the standard Global History & Geography curriculum, but also provides students with challenging opportunities to interrelate social studies content with literary works and language arts skills. To be successful in this honors program, students must have a strong interest in social studies and English, and be able to undertake long-term reading, writing, and research assignments. Cooperative learning projects, public speaking, and independent work are integral components of the course. The Model United Nations program is incorporated into the curriculum and requires students to become proficient in all of the aforementioned skills which must be exhibited at a weekend conference held at Syracuse University in January. Instruction is focused on developing high level critical thinking skills of analysis, synthesis, and evaluation. Final assessment – Local. (Note: Students must also enroll in English 8888).

0004 – GLOBAL HISTORY & GEOGRAPHY 9 – Honors

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grade 9

This course focuses upon analyzing broad themes, concepts, trends, events and issues of world history from Ancient Civilizations through the Middle Ages, as well as developing an understanding of diverse cultures. Students experience history and culture through a range of activities including textbook and primary sources. Students must be able to undertake long-term reading, writing and research assignments and must have demonstrated a high level of interest in social studies and above average ability in reading, writing and research. Students should be prepared to further develop their critical thinking skills of analysis, synthesis and evaluation of the social sciences. Final assessment – Local.

GRADE TEN – GENERAL COURSE INFORMATION

Global History and Geography 10 continues the chronological study of world history to the present day. Several concepts are woven throughout the course including industrialization, nationalism, imperialism, conflict, technology, and the interconnectedness of the world. Historical thinking skills and units of study will focus on: The World in 1750; the Age of Revolutions, Industrialization, and Empires; Crisis and Achievement in the 20th Century; and Contemporary World Issues.

0011 – GLOBAL HISTORY & GEOGRAPHY 10 – Regents

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grade 10

Students will continue several aspects of social science as they experience the history and culture of a wide range of people from around the world. Projects, debates, class discussions and traditional assessments will reinforce reading and writing assignments from textbooks, primary source documents and current events articles. As students develop an understanding of the links between the past and present, they will be preparing for the NYS Regents exam. Final exam – NYS Regents.

0013 – GLOBAL HISTORY & GEOGRAPHY 10 – Interdisciplinary Honors

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grade 10

This course follows the standard Global History & Geography curriculum and correlates this content with literary works and language arts skills at a very challenging level. The expectations of this course include sophisticated readings from articles and historical documents. Students are also expected to complete research and writing assignments and to take independent notes from different instructional sources. Cooperative learning projects, public speaking, and debating are also integral components of this course. Instruction is focused on developing a high level of the critical thinking skills of analysis, synthesis, self-discipline, and reflection as applied to the study of the humanities. It is suggested that students exemplify a strong interest and previous academic success in social studies and English in order to enroll in this course. Final exam – NYS Regents. (Note: Students must enroll in English 8889.)

0014 – World History: Modern – AP

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grade 10

This course highlights the nature of changes in world history from 1200 to the present and their causes and consequences, as well as comparisons among major societies. There is an emphasis on relevant factual knowledge, leading interpretive issues, and skills in analyzing types of historical evidence. Students will explore several time periods and discuss change and continuity throughout the course. Students will develop skills necessary to arrive at conclusions based on informed judgement and to effectively communicate their findings. Students must be strong readers, and must be capable of working independently. The demands on the students are equivalent to those made by college courses, and will culminate in the national AP exam in World History: Modern given in May. Final exam – NYS Regents Exam in Global History & Geography.

GRADE ELEVEN – GENERAL COURSE INFORMATION

US History begins with colonial and constitutional foundations and explores the structure and functions of the US Government and Constitution. Social, political and economic factors leading to the Civil War, as well as industrial, urbanization and expansion are examined. America’s emergence as a world power and 20th Century wars are a focus. Students also explore the expansion of federal power, civil rights and the place of the US in an increasingly interconnected world.

0031 – UNITED STATES HISTORY & GOVERNMENT – Regents

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grade 11

This course follows the history of the United States from the colonial period to the present. Following the New York State Social Studies Framework, students will further develop their understanding of our nation’s history through a variety of activities including class discussions, simulations, research assignments, projects and DBQ essay writing as well as multiple choice tests. Topics covered include history and function of the U.S. Constitution; the age of reform in antebellum America; the Civil War, Reconstruction and the age of big business; as well as strong emphasis on 20th century foreign and domestic policy. Final exam – NYS Regents.

0033 – UNITED STATES HISTORY & GOVERNMENT AMERICAN STUDIES – Honors

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grade 11

This course is designed to meet the requirements of the state frameworks while challenging students to engage more critically with the subject. To be successful in this honors program students must be able to undertake extensive reading, writing, and research projects. Students will develop their understanding of the complex issues and themes through various narrative histories as well as novels, short stories and other primary resources. Students can expect to assume responsibility for independent learning throughout the course. Students will be expected to demonstrate their understanding of these themes through exams, papers, presentations and debates. Final exam – NYS Regents.

0032 – UNITED STATES HISTORY & GOVERNMENT – AP

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grades 11-12

This course is designed to develop the analytical skills and factual knowledge needed to deal critically with United States History from the colonial period through the present. Students will learn to assess historical materials and to weigh the evidence and interpretations presented by a variety of sources. Students will develop skills necessary to arrive at conclusions based on informed judgement and to effectively communicate their findings. Students must be strong readers, participate in discussion seminars, and capable of working independently. The demands on the students are equivalent to those made by college courses, and will culminate in the AP exam in United States History given in May. Final exam – NYS Regents Exam in US History & Government.

GRADE TWELVE – GENERAL COURSE INFORMATION

Students are required by New York State to earn one-half unit of economics and one-half unit of participation in government. The economics requirement may be satisfied by completing one of the following:

• Economics
• Economics (Syracuse University Project Advance)

The participation in government requirement may be satisfied by completing one of the following:

• Participation in Government
• Law Studies
• Policy Studies (Syracuse University Project Advance)

These courses generally consider theory, methodology and substantive aspects of each discipline. They are designed to provide practical application to everyday experiences, present opportunities to develop research skills, encourage participation in the political, economic and social aspects of our society, and facilitate further study in college. Each course carries one-half unit of credit.

0041 – ECONOMICS

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grade 12

This course examines both micro and macro aspects of economic systems. Using economic models as a framework for analysis, attempts are made to apply economic theory to interpret current economic development. Student projects are utilized to promote an understanding of economic and financial events. Capital markets are studied and used as a starting point to analyze national and international economies. Markets for stocks, bonds, commodities, money and foreign exchange are studied. Skills in reading and understanding business and financial news are developed. Final exam – Local.

0048 – ECONOMICS – SUPA

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grade 12

This course begins with a presentation of the scientific method which is then used to analyze the question: how do individuals and societies make choices when they are faced with scarcity? Beginning with the individual in the simplest of situations, a one-person society, the course moves step by step to develop a model of a complex society based on division of labor and exchange through markets. The process takes students from the microeconomics to the macroeconomic level, emphasizing the connection between these two perspectives. Students examine the benefits, as well as the problems, inherent in a market-oriented economy. The course prepares students to analyze and understand the on-going economic policy debate between interventionists and non-interventionists. This course is the same as Economics 203 on the S.U. campus. Upon registration and payment of tuition at Syracuse University, students are eligible for three hours of college credit as well as 1/2 unit of high school credit. The course will appear as Syracuse University Project Advance on the student’s transcript. Students may also choose to take this course for high school credit only.

0049 – PARTICIPATION IN GOVERNMENT

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grade 12

This course aims to provide students with opportunities to become engaged in the political process by acquiring the knowledge and skills necessary for active citizenship. We seek to apply their prior social studies learning to the examination of contemporary political issues. The emphasis is on current events, societal problems, as identified by students, and strategies for change. Students work on political advocacy skills, media literacy, interactions with political leaders and persuasive speaking and writing skills to realize their potential as young citizens. The course allows students to apply political and governmental topics to their lives in school, the local community and at the national level. Class activities include dynamic discussion, debates, group-based projects, field trips and community interaction, all exercised with the intention of empowering students to formulate political opinions and to see themselves as necessary to the democratic process.

0042 – PARTICIPATION IN GOVERNMENT: LAW STUDIES

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grade 12

This course aims to provide students with opportunities to become engaged in the political process by acquiring the knowledge and practicing the skills necessary for active citizenship. This course is designed to develop critical reasoning and assist students in understanding laws as they pertain to real life situations. The curriculum incorporates both criminal and civil law. Mock trials are held to help students understand the legal process. Professionals in law-related fields are used to provide additional information and topics of special interest.

0047 – PARTICIPATION IN GOVERNMENT: SUPA POLICY STUDIES

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grade 12

Introduction to the Analysis of Public Policy is designed to introduce students to basic skills of public policy analysis. Students completing the course should possess the ability to define and identify the components of public policy issues, communicate ideas and findings with respect to these issues, conduct research, design a study to evaluate the impact of a proposed public policy, and analyze the political factors affecting the implementation of such policy. Upon registration and payment of tuition to Syracuse University, students are eligible for three hours of college credit as well as 1/2 unit of high school credit. This course is the same as Policy Studies 101 on the SU campus. The course will appear as Syracuse University Project Advance (SUPA) on the student’s transcript. Students may also choose to take this course for high school credit only.

ELECTIVES

Social Studies electives are open to students interested in exploring human behavior, culture, and social issues. These courses are designed to provide additional opportunities to sharpen students’ skills in the social sciences and broaden their understanding of society’s most interesting questions.

0016 – COMPARATIVE GOVERNMENT & POLITICS – AP

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grades 11-12

The AP course in Comparative Government and Politics introduces students to fundamental concepts used by political scientists to study the processes and outcomes of politics in a variety of country settings. These countries include: China, Great Britain, Mexico, Nigeria, Russia and Iran. The course aims to illustrate the rich diversity of political life, to show available institutional alternatives and to demonstrate the importance of global change. The course prepares students for the May AP exam, but will also include locally developed curriculum and assessments.

Please Note: This course is offered in alternating years and will be offered in 2025-26 and again in 2027-28.

0055 – FACING GENOCIDE: Our History & Ourselves

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 10-12

This course is about the light and dark sides of human nature. It is about human psychology, group dynamics, and contested historical issues. It is about how we create and preserve truthful collective memory in the face of denial. It is about rescuers, resistors, perpetrators, victims, and bystanders. It is about the most ruthless criminals in history, and the everyday heroes who opposed them. It is about how people protected human rights in times of crisis and how individuals are standing up for the rights of others today. Most of all, this class is about the choices people make: choices to act with courage, hatred, tolerance, prejudice, kindness, and indifference. Students explore these topics through discussion, film, writing, research, literature, and other media. The class focuses on learning ways to prevent violence and suffering and to build a better future by learning from the past.

0045 – SOCIOLOGY

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 10-12

Ever wonder how ideas about race, gender and status develop in our society? How does a group establish its identity? How does data help us both track society’s past trends and predict its future actions? Questions like these and many others are considered in high school Sociology. Through readings, research, interpretation of data, and discussion, students will tackle fascinating questions of race, ethnicity, gender, identity and youth culture and examine how these issues are related to American society and its institutions. Students will develop social science skills and a vocabulary that will be helpful in high school, college and beyond.

0046 – SOCIOLOGY – SUPA

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 11-12

Sociology encourages the student to develop a critical attitude toward society, the self and relationships between them. A goal of this course is for students to develop a basic understanding of sociological knowledge, of central theories and of frameworks used by sociologists. The core units are: Work/Class/Race; Identity; Media; and College Youth Culture. Speakers, projects, and scholarly journal articles help us examine these topics.

Upon registration and payment of tuition to Syracuse University, students are eligible for three hours of college credit as well as 1/2 unit of high school credit. This course is the same as Sociology 101 on the S.U. campus. The course will appear as SUPA on the student’s transcript. Students may choose to take this course for high school credit only.

0053 – ANTHROPOLOGY

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 10-12

Anthropology is the study of human development and culture. Topics in physical anthropology include primate evolution, early hominids, modern Homo sapiens, and human variation. Special emphasis is given to archeological methods and discoveries. Students apply their archaeological knowledge in May by participating in a real dig at the Broadfield site, where an Onondaga village existed around 1500 A.D. Students also study world cultures to understand different views on gender issues, economics, race, religion, violence, modernity, and globalization. The class typically takes a field trip to the Oneida Community Mansion House and the Shako:wi Cultural Center as well.

0051- US MILITARY HISTORY

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 10-12

This elective course offers a comprehensive exploration of the rich and complex history of U.S. military history, tracing the evolution of American armed forces from their inception to the present day. Students will explore the strategic, tactical, and cultural dimensions of key conflicts, from the Revolutionary War and Civil War to World Wars I and II, the Vietnam War, and contemporary military engagements. Through a combination of lectures, discussions, readings, and multimedia resources, participants will examine pivotal battles, the impact of technology on warfare, the experiences of soldiers and civilians, and the ethical dilemmas inherent in armed conflict. By critically analyzing primary sources and engaging with diverse perspectives, students will develop a nuanced understanding of the multifaceted role of the military in shaping the nation’s history, identity, and global relationships. This course aims to cultivate not only historical knowledge but also critical thinking skills, empathy, and a sense of civic responsibility, empowering students to grapple with complex issues and contribute meaningfully to discussions about the past, present, and future of U.S. military engagement.

0043 – PSYCHOLOGY

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 10-12

This elective is for students with an interest in learning about the many facets of the field of psychology, but may not want to seek a college level investigation of the subject. High School Psychology is an introduction to topics such as personality, consciousness, motivation, thinking, learning, as well as the biological base of behavior and abnormal psychology.

0044 – PSYCHOLOGY – SUPA

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 10-12

The purposes of this course are to acquaint students with the use of the scientific method in studying individual behavior with the primary concepts and questions of psychology, and the major research in each of the foundation areas. Those foundation areas are learning, neurophysiology, personality and abnormal and cognitive behavior. The course is taught under the direction of the psychology department at Syracuse University and is the same as Psychology 205, Foundations of Human Behavior. Upon registration and payment of tuition to Syracuse University, students are eligible for three hours of college credit as well as 1/2 unit of high school credit. The course will appear as SUPA on the student’s transcript. Students may choose to take this course for high school credit only.

0066 – European History – AP

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grades 11-12

This course focuses on the study of European history since 1450 and introduces students to cultural, economic, political and social developments that have played a fundamental role in shaping the world in which we live. In addition to exploring the narrative of events and movements during this time, students will develop and understand some of the main themes in modern European history, improve their ability to analyze historical evidence and interpretation, and continue their work in expressing historical understanding in writing. Topics will include: Intellectual and Cultural History; Political and Diplomatic History; and Social and Economic History. Students must be strong readers and must be capable of working independently. The demands on students are equivalent to those made by college courses and will culminate in the national AP exam in European History given in May. 

Please Note: This course is offered in alternating years and will be offered in 2026-27.

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Technology and Design

Technology and Design courses offer students a wide variety of experiences, both in the laboratory as well as in the classroom. These courses offer a pre-engineering environment in design, innovation and invention. They allow for experiences with tools, materials, machines and techniques. Each course utilizes Computer Aided Drafting programs to assist students in creative designs that deal with their lab activities. These courses are oriented for the college bound student as well as the trade oriented student.

For students seeking the Advanced Regents Diploma, five units from the Technology and Design Program outlined below may replace the three-unit World Languages requirement:

• Career and Financial Management
• Two Foundation Courses
• One Systems Course
• Two Technical Electives
• Any remaining technology & design course not yet taken. Can include one photo course.

There is no required order in which these courses must be scheduled. No course has a prerequisite.

Academic Pathways

*The Design and Drawing for Production (D.D.P.) class fulfills the 1 credit Art/Music graduation requirement.

Courses

0411 – DESIGN & DRAWING FOR PRODUCTION

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grades 9-12

Design and drawing for production (also known as DDP) is primarily a computer centered design class. In DDP students learn how to take an idea through a design process that would eventually lead to their product being manufactured or produced. Students learn to find solutions to problems through design, drafting, and modeling. The course incorporates project-based activities that ready our students for real-world experiences. This class is centered around three-dimensional computer aided design, 3D printing, laser cutting and engraving, and architectural design and drawing. This course fulfills the Art/Music graduation requirement.

0412 – ARCHITECTURAL DRAWING & DESIGN

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 9-12

If you are interested in designing houses, interior design, landscape design, and learning about how houses are built then architectural drawing and design is the course for you! Students will engage in designing well thought out floor plans, create realistic elevation views, and will utilize state of the art architecture software to design 3 dimensional houses and businesses of their own design. This course is highly recommended for students interested in a career in design, architecture, engineering or construction after high school.

0429 – AEROSPACE & AVIATION DESIGN

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 9-12

If you are interested in flight, planes, or aircraft design then you will love aerospace and aviation. This is a hands-on, lab-based class where students will learn through problem solving, project construction, and experimentation. You will learn about the parts of an aircraft, flight instruments, and how planes fly. Some of our units include learning how to fly drones, building and flying model rockets, and you will learn to use state of the art flight simulators. A recreational drone certification will be included for students who are enrolled in this course.

0424 – PRODUCTION SYSTEMS

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 9-12

Manufactured items are part of everyday life. Students will learn about manufacturing processes, product design, and automation. This course will allow students to explore the rapidly growing manufacturing industry. Students will use Computer Aided Design and Manufacturing (CAD/CAM) programs to translate a digital design into a finished product. Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines are used to transform raw materials into a product designed by the student. In addition to technical concepts, this course incorporates business ethics, finance, and engineering design. This is a fundamental course for students interested in engineering or the trades after high school.

*Successful completion of DDP, or the 8th grade tech elective for 9th graders is strongly recommended*

0455 – BASIC ELECTRICITY/ ELECTRONICS

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 9-12

Electricity and electronics is a lab-based course that uses a hands-on approach to introduce the basic concepts of digital electronics and robotics. This course focuses on the construction and programming of autonomous mobile robots. Students will solve real-world problems with the use of programmable circuit boards and electronic equipment. Besides robotics and digital electronics, students will complete projects involving soldering, residential wiring, and basic circuits. Students will also benefit from industry experiences like field trips to local electronics & robotics plants. This is a fundamental course for students interested in engineering or the trades after high school.

0457 – Principles of Engineering

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grades 9-12

Principles of engineering is highly recommended for any student interested in a career in engineering, construction, or any field involving engineering concepts. Students will use their math, science, and engineering skills to design and develop the best possible solution to presented problems. Students will hone their understanding with design projects relevant to the “real world” while functioning within design teams. Some projects include solar energy, robotics, hydroponics, drone construction and operation, and strength of materials. Students will use our Autodesk inventor 3-dimensional design software and will use our laser engraver, 3D printers, and CNC mill machine to aid them in the creation of their projects.

0426 – TRANSPORTATION SYSTEMS

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 9-12

This exciting hands-on course exposes students to the basic theories related to various modes of transportation such as rockets, airplanes, cars, boats and alternative energy vehicles. Students will engage in hands-on problem-solving activities often in a small group setting. Each activity culminates with the students testing their projects against other teams in exhilarating class wide competitions.

0414 – AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 9-12

This hands-on lab-based class engages students in the basic principles and systems required to operate land vehicles. If you plan on owning a car in the future this course will be very useful to you. Auto tech is a practical course for anyone interested in automotive repair and maintenance and requires innovation and creativity while solving problems within automotive technology. Some basic skills taught include changing a tire, oil changes, and troubleshooting common problems. Our internal combustion unit includes disassembling and reassembling small engines and repairing commonly owned items such as lawn mowers and snow blowers.

0413 – RESIDENTIAL STRUCTURES

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 9-12

This is a hands-on comprehensive construction class where students learn about how modern houses are constructed. This course would be extremely beneficial to any future home owner or person interested in going into the construction trades after high school. We will cover estimating, site planning and prep work, and follow the construction process from building a foundation, floor, wall and roof framing, sheathing, hanging windows and doors, all the way up through finish work. Each unit includes constructing full scale projects and culminates with building a full-sized shed. Additionally, we typically build projects for the FM district or for the town of Manlius.

0422 – COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS

1/2 CREDIT
20 WEEKS Grades 9-12

Communication Systems is an introductory, project-based course for students interested in learning the technical side of media production. Students will gain skills in audio, video, and lighting design. This course is for those who enjoy creating videos and podcasts or those who want to learn about what goes on behind the scenes of live production, TV shows, and movies, and content is taught with a variety of interactive presentations and hands-on activities. This course also fulfills a prerequisite for Broadcast Journalism and those who would like to be part of FMTV.

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World Languages

All of our students have the opportunity to build cultural competence through the study of world languages. Students begin their language study in grade seven and may continue through grade twelve. They can learn, with equal facility, any of the languages offered: French, German, Latin, and Spanish.

When selecting their first language, students should consider these influences: their own cultural heritage, the languages spoken in or near their town, their personal foreign contact at home and abroad, their religious and social affiliations, their travel opportunities, their interests in history, art, and music, and their career plans.

The following information may also help students decide which language(s) to study:

FRENCH

TRAVEL

French is the second most studied language in the world, after English. French is spoken in France, Luxembourg and parts of Belgium, Switzerland and Canada. It is also an important language in North Africa and East Asia. French is also spoken in the Caribbean Islands of Martinique and Guadeloupe. Communication with these people in French on a personal level changes many a misconception into a new perception. 

Career

The knowledge of French is very useful in international careers in trade, law, business, and diplomacy. French is, for example, the external language of negotiation for African nations and is one of the official languages at the United Nations.

EXPANDING YOUR ENGLISH

The study of French enhances the understanding of “laissez-faire,” “coup d’ état,” “RSVP (répondez s’il vous plaît),” and many other French expressions commonly used in the English language.

German

Travel

Since 12% of the American population is of German descent (the country’s largest self-reported ancestral group), many may find it interesting to explore one’s roots in the German-speaking countries of Austria, Switzerland, Liechtenstein and Germany. There they may meet some of the 155 million people in the world who speak German.

CAREER

Students who plan to pursue careers in medicine, technology, science or industry will find the language useful. German is the third most used language for scholarly publications. More than 1100 companies from Germany have subsidiaries in the US and more than 750 American companies do business in Germany. Industries like T-Mobile, Adidas, Volkswagen, BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz and Bayer influence the world economy.

EXPANDING YOUR ENGLISH

German and English evolved from the same parent language. Kindergarten, Gesundheit, Sauerkraut and Schadenfreude are just a few of the German expressions that are now familiar to the English language.

Spanish

The United States is home to the fourth largest Hispanic population worldwide. There are many opportunities to communicate in Spanish around the US and even in Central New York. There are more Spanish speakers in New York City than in San Juan, Puerto Rico. In Los Angeles, 38% of residents are Spanish speaking. By 2050, it is projected that Hispanics will make up at least 30% of the US population.

CAREER

In 2022, there were an estimated 5 million businesses owned by Spanish speakers in the US. International and domestic companies need bilingual personnel to communicate, negotiate, market, and promote their products. There is also a great need for Spanish speakers in the service professions (doctors, nurses, police, etc.) because of the extensive number of Spanish speakers in the US.

EXPANDING YOUR ENGLISH

Because of the ever present Hispanic influence in the United States, many Spanish words have crossed over into our everyday English vocabulary.

Latin

Latin is very much alive today. At F-M, we study the language and culture of the ancient Romans and their empire in the following ways: 

• LANGUAGE: Students study Latin vocabulary, pronunciation, grammar and precise translation to correct English.
• ETYMOLOGY: Students study the Latin origins of English words. Over half of English vocabulary comes from Latin!
• HISTORY: Students study the 2500 years of Roman influence in Europe, Asia, Africa and the United States.
• MYTHOLOGY AND RELIGION: Students study Greco-Roman myths and religious and philosophical practices.
• LITERATURE: Advanced Latin students translate and interpret the great works of Latin literature: Caesar’s Gallic Wars, Orations of Cicero, Ovid’s Metamorphoses and Vergil’s Aeneid.

Career

Study in Latin is helpful for a variety of careers. Study skills, critical thinking, reading skills, and improved vocabulary are fine preparation for careers in law, medicine, science, education and many other fields.

Requirements

All students must earn a minimum of one unit of credit in a World Language to graduate.

No matter which language the student selects, they practice its unique ways of communicating through conversational speaking and writing, understanding a variety of authentic texts (articles, infographics, videos, podcasts etc) in the language and producing original written or spoken works. The students do this through a large variety of interdisciplinary, complex, real-life cultural contexts. Each year the student studies these topics in more depth and is required to demonstrate increased competence in the basic elements of the language.

The Board of Regents has established three checkpoints that tell what the student needs to be able to do and how well the student must do it in order to successfully complete a given level.

• Checkpoint A refers to the first two units of study completed at some time in grades K-9.
• Checkpoint B refers to a three-unit sequence for an Advanced Regents Diploma.
• Students must pass a locally developed examination aligned to the Checkpoint B learning standards.
• Checkpoint C is for a five-unit sequence.

The student can move through these checkpoints at various rates. This depends on the specific language as well as the age, abilities, motivation, and interests of the student. All courses within a language are sequential. The student must pass a course or demonstrate proficiency before proceeding to the next level. The additional requirements listed in this catalog for each course are there to help the student select the most appropriate course level. Students should discuss these possibilities with their teacher and counselor. Teachers will make recommendations for the honor level courses. Students may elect to take more than one world language.

Courses

0300 – LATIN 1 – Honors

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grades 8-12
CHECKPOINT A

This course is designed for the above average student with strong linguistic skills, reading comprehension, and written expression. This course is taught at an accelerated pace and requires highly motivated and self-directed students. The primary goal is developing precise reading skills through which the student is also introduced to Roman daily life, history, mythology, and influence on our civilization. The study of English etymology begins to reveal the impact of Latin on the English language. Final Exam – local.

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation.

0305 – LATIN 2 – Honors

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

This course is a continuation of Latin I. The student refines reading skills through the understanding of higher level grammatical constructions. Through the spiraling of culture topics the student appreciates Roman contributions to Western civilization. The student translates short passages from authentic sources. Final Exam – local.

Prerequisite: Passing Grade in Latin 1.

0310 – LATIN 3 – Honors

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS
CHECKPOINT B

At this level, a student concludes the introduction to Latin grammar and translates authentic passages of Latin Literature from Caesar, Cicero, and other prose authors. Latin Literature is the vehicle through which the student acquires knowledge of Roman history and other cultural topics. Checkpoint B Final Exam – local.

Prerequisite: Passing Grade in Latin 2H.

0315 – LATIN 4 – Pre-AP

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

This pre-AP course is designed to prepare a student for the Level V AP Latin course. The student studies prose and poetry from such authors as Pliny, Ovid, and Cicero. A student demonstrates knowledge and appreciation of Latin Literature via critical essays in English. Final Exam – local.

Prerequisite: Passing Grade in Latin 3H. 

0316 – LATIN 5 – AP

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS
CHECKPOINT C

The content of Latin V AP is Julius Caesar’s Commentarii de Bello Gallico, Vergil’s Aeneid, and extensive sight reading of a variety of Latin prose authors and poets. Students will translate and interpret portions of Books I, IV, V, and VI of the Commentarii and Books I, II, IV, and VI of the Aeneid. The course will focus on translation, comprehension, interpretation, and criticism of unadapted Latin texts.

This course is part of a national program sponsored by the College Board, which has been recognized by many colleges and universities. It offers the students the opportunity to gain college World Language credit, advanced standing, or both based on the student’s performance on the AP exam in May.

Prerequisite: Passing Grade in Latin 4 Pre-AP. 

0320 – FRENCH 1 – Honors

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grades 9-12
CHECKPOINT A

This course is designed for students who are above average in academic ability beginning their study of French. They have strong linguistic skills and will be expected to develop oral proficiency, written expression and reading and listening comprehension in French. This course is taught at an accelerated pace and requires students to be motivated and self-directed. Final exam – local.

0324 – FRENCH 1

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS
CHECKPOINT A

This course is designed for students who have not yet successfully completed Checkpoint A study in a language. Students will work on communication skills to express themselves in familiar contexts. Students will develop the four language skills: reading, writing, speaking, listening. Checkpoint A exam.

0327 – FRENCH 2

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

Students in this course continue their practice of language proficiency skills with a focus on communication. Course topics are based upon various real-life cultural contexts.Final exam – local.

Prerequisite: Passing grade in French 1.

0325 – FRENCH 2 – Honors

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

This course is taught at an accelerated pace and requires students to be highly motivated and self-directed. This course is developed to strengthen language proficiency skills through an in depth study of real-life, complex cultural concepts with more of an emphasis on accuracy in language production. Final exam – local.

Prerequisite: Demonstrates mastery of French 1 concepts; teacher recommendation.

0332 – FRENCH 3

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS
CHECKPOINT B

Students are expected to use French and refine their language proficiency skills through the study of complex cultural topics. There is a focus on new material and also extensive review and study in preparation for the Checkpoint B Exam. Final Exam – local.

Prerequisite: Passing Grade in French 2 or 2H.

0330 – FRENCH 3 – Honors

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS
CHECKPOINT B

This course is designed for above-average students and is taught at an accelerated pace that requires students to be highly motivated and self-directed. Students are expected to use French during the class in interaction with the teacher. In addition to preparing for the Checkpoint B exam, students will focus on mastering increasingly complex structures and acquiring more sophisticated vocabulary. Final Exam – local.

Prerequisite: Demonstrates mastery of French 2H concepts; teacher recommendation.

0336 – FRENCH 4

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

This course is for students who wish to strengthen and advance their French proficiency and work toward fluency. Students will participate in class discussions of films, write compositions of a substantial length, advance their grammatical knowledge, and complete cultural projects. There will be a strong focus on achieving oral proficiency through conversations, debates, and active class participation. Instruction is predominantly in French. The course curriculum is aligned with SUNY Oswego’s French 201. Students may pay a reduced tuition and upon successful completion of the course are granted three college credits which may be transferred to other colleges. Final exam – local.

Prerequisite: Passing Grade in French 3.

0335 – FRENCH 4 – Pre-AP

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

This course is designed to prepare students for the AP French 5 language course. Students focus on mastering complex verb tenses, sentence structures, and idiomatic vocabulary. These grammatical concepts are assessed frequently and these skills are used to express complex ideas in both oral and written form. Curriculum includes: taking part in presentations, group research projects, analysis of movies and short stories in French. Instruction is exclusively in French. The course curriculum is aligned with SUNY Oswego’s French 201. Students pay a reduced tuition, and upon successful completion, are granted three college credits. Final exam – local.

Prerequisite: Passing Grade in French 3H. 

0338 – FRENCH 5 – AP

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS
CHECKPOINT C

This course is part of a national program sponsored by the College Board, which has been recognized by many colleges and universities. It offers the students the opportunity to gain college World Language credit, advanced standing, or both based on the student’s performance on the AP exam in May. The course content is based on the College Board’s themes: daily life, family and community, global challenges, beauty and aesthetics, science and technology, and personal and public identities. Materials may consist of recordings, films, newspapers, magazines and texts. The objectives of the course include the following:

• The ability to comprehend the formal and informal spoken language.
• The acquisition of vocabulary and a grasp of a structure to allow the easy, accurate reading of newspapers, magazine articles, as well as of modern literature.
• The ability to compose expository passages.
• The ability to express ideas orally with accuracy and fluency.

Prerequisite: Passing Grade in French 4. 

0340 – SPANISH 1 – Honors

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grades 9-12
CHECKPOINT A

This course is designed for students who are above average in academic ability beginning their study of Spanish. They have strong linguistic skills and will be expected to develop higher levels of oral proficiency, written expression and reading and listening comprehension. This course is taught at an accelerated pace and requires students to be motivated and self-directed. Final exam – local.

0344 – SPANISH 1

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS
CHECKPOINT A

This course is designed for students who have not yet successfully completed Checkpoint A study in a language. Students will work on communication skills to express themselves in familiar contexts. Students will develop the four language skills: reading, writing, speaking, listening. Checkpoint A exam.

0347 – SPANISH 2

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

Students in this course continue their practice of language proficiency skills with a focus on communication. Course topics are based upon various real-life cultural contexts. Final exam – local.

Prerequisite: Passing Grade in Spanish 1. 

0345 – SPANISH 2 – Honors

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

This course is taught at an accelerated pace and requires students to be highly motivated and self-directed. This course is developed to strengthen language proficiency skills through an in depth study of real-life, complex cultural concepts with more of an emphasis on accuracy in language production. Final exam – local.

Prerequisite: Demonstrates mastery of Spanish 1 concepts; teacher recommendation. 

0352 – SPANISH 3

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS
CHECKPOINT B

Students are expected to use Spanish and refine their language proficiency skills through the study of complex cultural topics. There is a focus on new material, exposure to cultural and historical events pertaining to the Spanish speaking world and also extensive review and study preparation for the Checkpoint B Exam. Final exam – local.

Prerequisite: Passing Grade in Spanish 2 or 2H. 

0350 – SPANISH 3 – Honors

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS
CHECKPOINT B

This course is designed for above average students and is taught at an accelerated pace that requires students to be highly motivated and self-directed. Students are expected to use Spanish during the class in interaction with the teacher. In addition to preparing for the Checkpoint B exam, students will focus on mastering increasingly complex structures and acquiring more sophisticated vocabulary. Final exam – local.

Prerequisite: Demonstrates mastery of Spanish 2H concepts; teacher recommendation. 

0354 – SPANISH 4

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

Spanish 4 will strengthen and advance language proficiency, expose students to world events and promote awareness and appreciation for language and cultures other than their own. Through the study of authentic readings, films, current events, debates, and class projects students will make language and cultural connections to prepare them to be better global citizens and Spanish speakers. Students will be asked to identify how world-wide events impact other societies as well as their very own communities. Instruction will be predominantly in Spanish. 

Prerequisite: Passing Grade in Spanish 3. 

0355 – SPANISH 4 – Pre-AP

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

This course is designed to prepare students for the AP Spanish 5 language course. Students focus on mastering complex verb tenses, sentence structure, and idiomatic vocabulary. These grammatical concepts are assessed frequently and these skills are used to express complex ideas in both oral and written form. The curriculum includes the following: taking part in presentations, group research projects, analysis of movies and short stories in Spanish. Instruction is exclusively in Spanish. Final Exam- local. The course curriculum is aligned with SUNY Oswego’s Spanish 201. Students may pay a reduced tuition, and upon successful completion of the course, are granted three college credits, which may be transferred to other colleges.

Prerequisite: Passing Grade in Spanish 3H.

0357 – SPANISH 5

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

Spanish 5 will provide students with additional opportunities to continue reinforcing and advancing their language proficiency. The class uses films, music, literary pieces and current events from Spain and Latin America to provide a basis for instruction. Thematic units are infused with pertinent vocabulary and grammar topics. Students will be exposed to world events and cultures to strengthen their global awareness and cultural connections. Students will be expected to formulate their opinions and express their ideas in Spanish. Instruction will be predominantly in Spanish.

Prerequisite: Passing Grade in Spanish 4. 

0356 – SPANISH 5 – AP

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS
CHECKPOINT C

This course is part of a national program sponsored by the College Board which has been recognized by many prestigious colleges and universities. It offers the students the opportunity to gain up to six hours of college World Language credit, advanced standing, or both based on the student’s performance on the AP exam in May. The course content may include the arts, history, current events, literature, culture, sports and intensive grammar review. Materials may consist of recordings, films, newspapers, magazines and texts. The objectives of the course include the following:

• The ability to comprehend the formal and informal spoken language.
• To facilitate the reading of newspapers, magazine articles, as well as of modern literature.
• The ability to compose expository passages.
• The ability to express ideas orally with accuracy and fluency.

Prerequisite: Passing Grade in Spanish 4. 

0360 – GERMAN 1 – Honors

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS Grades 9-12
CHECKPOINT A

This course is designed for students who are above average in academic ability beginning their study of German. They have strong linguistic skills and will be expected to develop higher levels of oral proficiency, written expression and, reading and listening comprehension. This course is taught at an accelerated pace and requires students to be motivated and self-directed. Final exam – local.

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation.

0365 – GERMAN 2 – Honors

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

This course is taught at an accelerated pace and requires students to be highly motivated and self-directed. This course is developed to strengthen language proficiency skills through an in depth study of real-life, complex cultural concepts with more of an emphasis on accuracy in language production. Final exam – local.

Prerequisite: Passing Grade in German 1H. 

0370 – GERMAN 3 – Honors

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS
CHECKPOINT B

This course is taught at an accelerated pace and requires students to be highly motivated and self-directed. Students are expected to use German in class and while interacting with the teacher. In addition to preparing for the Checkpoint B exam, students will focus on mastering increasingly complex structures and acquiring more sophisticated vocabulary. Final exam – local.

Prerequisite: Passing Grade in German 2H. 

0375 – GERMAN 4 – Pre-AP

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS

This course is designed to prepare students for the AP German 5 language course. Students focus on mastering complex verb tenses, sentence structures, and idiomatic vocabulary. These grammatical concepts are assessed frequently and these skills are used to express complex ideas in both oral and written form. The curriculum includes: taking part in oral presentations, group research projects, analysis of movies, fairy tales and short stories in German. Instruction is exclusively in German. The course curriculum is aligned with SUNY Oswego’s German 201. Students pay a reduced tuition and, upon successful completion of the course, are granted three college credits, which may be transferred to other colleges.. Final exam – local.

Prerequisite: Passing Grade in German 3H. 

0377 – GERMAN 5 – AP

1 CREDIT
40 WEEKS
CHECKPOINT C

This course is part of a national program sponsored by the College Board which has been recognized by many colleges and universities. It offers the students the opportunity to gain college World Language credit, advanced standing, or both credit and standing at the college of their choice. The amount of credit and the opportunity for exemption are based on the student’s performance on the AP exam in May.

The course content is based on the College Board’s themes: daily life, family and community, global challenges, beauty and aesthetics, science and technology, and personal and public identities. Materials may consist of recordings, films, newspapers, magazines and texts. The objectives of the course include the following:

• The ability to comprehend the formal and informal spoken language.
• The acquisition of vocabulary and a grasp of a structure to allow the easy, accurate reading of newspapers, magazine articles, as well as of modern literature.
• The ability to compose expository passages.
• The ability to express ideas orally with accuracy and fluency.

Prerequisite: Passing Grade in German 4 Pre AP. 

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