{"id":32,"date":"2010-03-23T02:35:21","date_gmt":"2010-03-23T09:35:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/mountvernonacademy.com\/?page_id=32"},"modified":"2023-11-21T14:11:52","modified_gmt":"2023-11-21T21:11:52","slug":"curriculum","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/mountvernonacademy.com\/?page_id=32","title":{"rendered":"Curriculum"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>While offering the core curriculum, our classroom settings are infused with exciting projects and research that go far beyond the basic requirements.<\/p>\n<p>Every program we offer is designed to prepare students for graduation and to ensure their eligibility for college entrance.<\/p>\n<p>Mount Vernon Academy<\/p>\n<p>Course Descriptions<\/p>\n<h3>Grades 9-12<\/h3>\n<h4>All courses listed below are 1 credit unless indicated otherwise as .5<\/h4>\n<h4>All courses are core classes unless indicated by *<\/h4>\n<p>Social Studies<\/p>\n<p><u>African\/Asian Studies<\/u><\/p>\n<p>This course is designed to study and learn the history, culture, and geography of the Asian and African continent. Students will get familiar with each country and her people within these two continents. Students will study Africa the first semester and Asia the second semester.<\/p>\n<p><u>Geography for Life<\/u><\/p>\n<p>This course will focus on a study of cultural regions of the world; their interrelationships and conflicts.\u00a0 It will explore how humans in various societies have culturally adapted to the challenges of life.\u00a0 Cultural, economic and geographical skills required to better understand the dynamics of how people live is taught.<\/p>\n<p><u>World Civilizations<\/u><\/p>\n<p>This course examines and analyzes in an integrative manner the commonalities and differences of human experience in at least six spheres of human activity; social scientific\/technological, economic, religious\/philosophical, geographical and political.<\/p>\n<p><u>U.S. History<\/u><\/p>\n<p>This course includes a survey of U.S. History from precolonial days, revolutionary war, independence, and the founding of the states. Emphasis on the period from the Civil War to Vietnam and the New Conservatism.\u00a0 The course also includes the study of the structure of the U.S. government and the responsibilities of each branch of government.<\/p>\n<p><u>U.S. Government\/Civics<\/u><\/p>\n<p>Students will get an understanding of government.\u00a0\u00a0 The constitution is examined and it&#8217;s application to the American Judicial System.<\/p>\n<p><u>World Cultures<\/u><\/p>\n<p>Designed to give students an appreciation and solid understanding of the many different cultures that exist around the world.<\/p>\n<p><u>Current Issues<\/u><\/p>\n<p>Issues that are currently in the news are analyzed and discussed along with issues that are relevant to students.<\/p>\n<p><u>Sociology<\/u><\/p>\n<p>Students will learn about societal influences that shape who we are as humans. Study of group behavior, race, religion, and class status are a sampling of what students will learn.<\/p>\n<p><u>Psychology<\/u><\/p>\n<p>This is the study of the science of human and animal behavior. This course will explore the history of psychology. The different disciplines will be studied, including behavioral, psychoanalytical, social, abnormal, cognitive, and humanistic. Students will have opportunity through the acquisition of statistics create surveys, develop theories, and give a report of findings.<\/p>\n<p>Math<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><u>Pre Algebra<\/u><\/p>\n<p>This course is a bridge between arithmetic and algebra.\u00a0 Students will move from simple numerical skills to more advanced reasoning skills that require working with variables.<\/p>\n<p><u>Algebra 1<\/u><\/p>\n<p>This course covers solution methods needed by students in the study of subjects such as physics, biology, business, etc.\u00a0 The course will include an introduction to algebra, algebraic properties and language, equations with one variable, exponents, polynomials, linear equations, inequalities, relations, functions and variations, fractional expressions, radicals and quadratic equations.<\/p>\n<p><u>Geometry<\/u><\/p>\n<p>This is a fundamental course in Euclidean Geometry.\u00a0 Topics include:\u00a0 principles of logic, triangles, properties of right angles, parallel lines and planes, polygons, quadrilaterals, congruency and similarities of triangles and polygons, relationship between circles and lines, plane areas and volume and coordinate geometry.<\/p>\n<p><u>Algebra 2<\/u><\/p>\n<p>This course consists of a review of the topics from Elementary Algebra, and an in-depth treatment of quadratics, complex numbers, polynomials, exponents, and logarithms.\u00a0 In addition, the properties on conchs, sequences, and series are treated.<\/p>\n<p><u>Applied Mathematics<\/u><\/p>\n<p>This course will provide students with hands-on experience to strengthen their math skills.\u00a0 Students will apply fundamental arithmetic operations and use those skills in developing problem-solving techniques, measuring, geometry perspectives, data handling, simple statistics, and the use of algebraic formulas to solve problems.<\/p>\n<p><u>Pre Calculus<\/u><\/p>\n<p>This course is an extension of intermediate algebra and geometry.\u00a0 The students should gain a sense of the structure of mathematics as the fundamental concepts of calculus are developed.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><u>Calculus<\/u><\/p>\n<p>A course in calculus consists of a full academic year of work in calculus and related topics comparable to courses in colleges and universities.\u00a0 Prerequisite is mastery of advanced mathematics.<\/p>\n<p><u>Intuitive Calculus<\/u><\/p>\n<p><u>General Financial Literacy<\/u><\/p>\n<p>This course will assist students in a better understanding of personal finance and includes income, money management, spending and credit, saving and investing, consumer protection, and risk management<\/p>\n<p>Language Arts<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><u>*Basic Language Arts<\/u><\/p>\n<p>This course is designed for students who need assistance in understanding and using the English language.<\/p>\n<p><u>\u00a0<\/u><\/p>\n<p><u>Language Arts 9<\/u><\/p>\n<p>This course is designed for the average ninth grade student.\u00a0 Writing assignments will be related to future objectives.\u00a0 Some literature will be studied to give each student an appreciation for the world of literature.<\/p>\n<p><u>\u00a0<\/u><\/p>\n<p><u>Language Arts 9 Honors<\/u><\/p>\n<p>This course is a years course which is designed to accelerate language arts skills in writing, reading and communication for students with advanced skills.\u00a0 It requires more homework and higher standards than language arts 9<\/p>\n<p><u>\u00a0<\/u><\/p>\n<p><u>Language Arts 10<\/u><\/p>\n<p>This course will continue to work with students who need to improve their most basic skills in thinking, listening, speaking, reading, and writing.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><u>Language Arts 10 Honors<\/u><\/p>\n<p>Further develops students vocabulary, grammar and reading comprehension skills.\u00a0 It introduces students to concepts that create habits of mind and thinking skills.\u00a0 The students will be exposed to a wide variety of literature both classic and modern.<\/p>\n<p><u>\u00a0<\/u><\/p>\n<p><u>Language Arts 11<\/u><\/p>\n<p>The emphasis in this course will be placed on communication through better reading and writing about authors in American literature.<\/p>\n<p><u>\u00a0<\/u><\/p>\n<p><u>Language Arts 11 Honors<\/u><\/p>\n<p>Reading is important aspect of the course, and critical reading and thinking skills are emphasized. The literature includes both classical and modern genres. Persuasion and exposition writing styles are introduced.\u00a0 Students must maintain increased homework outside of class in order to remain in the class.<\/p>\n<p><u>Language Arts 12<\/u><\/p>\n<p>This course will stress reading, writing, and related skills such as vocabulary and grammar.\u00a0 Students will be exposed to the various types of literature; and the necessary types of technical writing such as forms, applications, and letter writing.<\/p>\n<p><u>\u00a0<\/u><\/p>\n<p><u>Language Arts 12 Honors<\/u><\/p>\n<p>The Honors class will will stress reading, writing, and related skills on a college level.\u00a0 This course prepares students for college.\u00a0 This class is reserved for advanced students.\u00a0 Office permission is given to attend this class. Honors English will be given additional assignments in writing and the study of novels not covered in the regular curriculum. This class also\u00a0 focuses on argumentative writing skills.<\/p>\n<p><u>\u00a0<\/u><\/p>\n<p><u>Speech<\/u><\/p>\n<p>Theory and practice of speech communication. Students focus on one to one, small group, and public speaking. Students will learn and practice speaking and listening skills.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><u>Creative Writing<\/u><\/p>\n<p>This course will give students experience in writing both poetry and prose and will help them understand the structure of various types of writing.\u00a0 Student writing will be published in the school yearbook.<\/p>\n<p><u>Journalism<\/u><\/p>\n<p>This course gives the students opportunity to learn the many aspects of creating newspapers and other media outlets. Students will create the school newspaper. The class has the feel of the newsroom as the students will choose a chief editor and other department editors. Modern technology is used, including digital cameras, laptops, journalism specific software, etc.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><u>Theater Foundations II (.5 credit)<\/u><\/p>\n<p>All aspects of the theater will be explored with emphasis on performance and production.<\/p>\n<p>Foreign Language<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><u>Spanish I and II<\/u><\/p>\n<p>This course gives special emphasis on listening, speaking, reading, and writing the Spanish language by means of a sound base of grammatical principles. Students engage in weekly dialogue, written exercises, and in-class activities. \u00a0Students are given opportunities to learn about the rich Hispanic cultures through class discussion and student generated reports. Students in level II will be conversant in basic daily dialogue, have a deep vocabulary, and a sound understanding of Spanish grammar.<\/p>\n<p><u>Japanese<\/u><\/p>\n<p>This course teaches the basics of the language and introduces far east culture through media and hands on activities.\u00a0 Attention is placed on development of listening, pronunciation, reading, and writing skills implementing hiragana and katakana.<\/p>\n<p>Science<\/p>\n<p><u>Astronomy<\/u><\/p>\n<p>This course will focus on gaining a better understanding of planet earth, it&#8217;s moon, sun, and it&#8217;s relationship to other planets in our solar system. Emphasis will be placed on learning about their physical characteristics. Scientific study will be a central theme in gaining a more complete understanding of the universe and all that exists therein.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><u>Botany<\/u><\/p>\n<p>This course is the scientific study of plants and their relationship to the environment. In this course students investigate the growth, reproduction, anatomy, morphology, physiology, genetics and ecology of plants. There are labs and many outdoor activities and experiences for the students.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><u>Earth Systems<\/u><\/p>\n<p>This course focuses on the theme of \u201cEarth Systems.\u201d\u00a0 Physical, earth, space and life science content will be integrated. Emphasis will be placed on the earth&#8217;s geology, weather patterns, and the synchronization of the systemic pattern that exist on planet earth.<\/p>\n<p><u>Biology<\/u><\/p>\n<p>This course includes the study of cells, heredity and evolution and the study of diversity and ecology of plants and animals.<\/p>\n<p><u>Chemistry<\/u><\/p>\n<p>This courses deals with the reactions and composition of matter.\u00a0 Theory and application are stressed.<\/p>\n<p><u>Physics<\/u><\/p>\n<p>Students will study motion of objects, forces acting on objects, and energy.\u00a0 They will plan and conduct their own experiments.<\/p>\n<p><u>Zoology<\/u><\/p>\n<p>The study of\u00a0 animal behavior , physiology, and classification.<\/p>\n<p>Art<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><u>Art Foundations\u00a0\u00a0 (.5 credit)<\/u><\/p>\n<p>This course emphasizes understanding works of art, color and design theory, and developing basic skills in drawing.\u00a0 Students also increase their understanding of the ways line, shape, form, texture; value and color are used to apply the principles of art.<\/p>\n<p><u>Art History\u00a0\u00a0 (.5 credit)<\/u><\/p>\n<p>Provides an overview and appreciation of the visual arts.\u00a0 Students will examine how works of art were created and learn to analyze artworks regarding effective use of art elements and principles.<\/p>\n<p><u>Photography\u00a0\u00a0 (.5 credit)<\/u><\/p>\n<p>Students will learn how to operate a digital camera and are introduced to the basic mechanical aspects of the camera, making prints and enlargements, and mounting prints for display.<\/p>\n<p><u>Music Appreciation (.5 credit)<\/u><\/p>\n<p>This course will stress rhythm reading, note reading, vocal production, time values, and choral discipline. Music history will be emphasized.<\/p>\n<p><u>Intro to Performing Arts<\/u><\/p>\n<p>Students have the opportunity to experience dance, choir, instrumental music in an exploratory learning environment.<\/p>\n<p><u>Intro to Theater<\/u><\/p>\n<p>Students experience both the on stage and behind the stage aspects of theater, including acting, set-design, and costuming.<\/p>\n<p><u>Chorus<\/u><\/p>\n<p>Students will learn the basics of choral performance.\u00a0 Public performances will be expected.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><u>Guitar<\/u><\/p>\n<p>Fundamentals of the guitar will be taught.\u00a0 Students must provide their own instruments.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Health<\/p>\n<p><u>Health Education \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0(.5 credit)<\/u><\/p>\n<p>This course is designed to give students an understanding and appreciation for not only their physical, but also their mental, social, and emotional well-being.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Physical Education<\/p>\n<p><u>Physical Education<\/u><\/p>\n<p>This course will develop participation skills and techniques in a variety of individual sports and games, with an emphasis on leadership, courtesy, respect, and sportsmanship.<\/p>\n<h3>Personal Fitness<\/h3>\n<p>Students will develop techniques for developing strong and healthy bodies.<\/p>\n<p><u>Dance (.5 credit)<\/u><\/p>\n<p>Basic dance forms, including classic and modern dancing will be the focus of this class.<\/p>\n<p><u>Team Sports<\/u><\/p>\n<p>Students who participate in school sports teams will be enrolled in this class for practice, training, and actual participation in sports events.<\/p>\n<p>Computer Technology<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><u>Word Processing<\/u><\/p>\n<p>Students will learn Microsoft Word.\u00a0 Emphasis will be on producing usable documents by concentrating on placement and proofreading.<\/p>\n<p><u>Computer Science<\/u><\/p>\n<p>This course is designed to provide students with hands-on experience in current technologies.\u00a0 Students explore basic concepts in computer applications, desktop publications, logo programming, and problem solving.<\/p>\n<p><u>Media Design\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (.5 credit)<\/u><\/p>\n<p>This course introduces students to the techniques of design with a computer and the applications of the<\/p>\n<p>designs.<\/p>\n<p><u>Principles of Technology<\/u><\/p>\n<p>This course introduces to students to the world of engineering and drafting.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><u>Applied Technology<\/u><\/p>\n<p>This course students gives students opportunity to use their technology skills in real world applications.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><u>Building Maintenance<\/u><\/p>\n<p>Students will learn the fundamentals of building upkeep, repair, and details necessary for building to meet fire and safety codes.<\/p>\n<p><u>Teacher Assistant<\/u><\/p>\n<p>Students will assist teachers in both elementary and secondary classrooms, tutoring students and providing help to teachers in the classroom.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Miscellaneous<\/p>\n<p>Course Descriptions<\/p>\n<h3>Grades 7 -8<\/h3>\n<p>These classes are specific to the 7th and 8th grade.\u00a0 Other classes are offered at this level and described in courses offered to the high school students but are designed for the 7th and 8th grade level.<\/p>\n<p><u>Math <\/u><u>\u2013 7th grade<\/u><\/p>\n<p>This course is a general math course following the Saxon math curriculum.<\/p>\n<p><u>*Math \u2013 8th grade<\/u><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>8th\u00a0grade students who need one more year of basic math prior to pre-algebra will be in this class.<\/p>\n<p><u>Integrated Science \u20137th grade<\/u><\/p>\n<p>This course focuses on the theme of \u201cstructure.\u201d\u00a0 Physical, earth, and life science content are integrated in the curriculum.\u00a0 Hands-on, student-centered approaches to instruction with the student as scientist should be emphasized.<\/p>\n<p><u>Integrated Science \u2013 8th grade<\/u><\/p>\n<p>This course focuses on the theme of \u201cchange.\u201d\u00a0 Earth, physical, and life sciences content are integrated in the curriculum.<\/p>\n<p><u>Utah Studies grade 7<\/u><\/p>\n<p>Students will be introduced to the significant events, people, cultures, and issues that have influenced Utah from its earliest beginnings through the present day.<\/p>\n<p><u>U.S. History \u2013 grade 8<\/u><\/p>\n<p>This course is designed to emphasize historic events from the age of exploration to reconstruction and the western movement.<\/p>\n<p><u>Language Arts \u2013 7 &amp; 8<\/u><\/p>\n<p>These courses will focus on intensive formal instruction in reading comprehension strategies as well as comprehensive instruction in writing process.\u00a0 Reading, listening, viewing, writing, and speaking will be emphasized.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>While offering the core curriculum, our classroom settings are infused with exciting projects and research that go far beyond the basic requirements. 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