RISING STAR ACADEMY

Program of Studies

2018-2019

Knowledge.Leadership.Faith

4613 Cottage Place Union City, NJ 07087

www.rsanj.org info@rsanj.org

This Program of Studies is designed as a curriculum guide to assist parents and students

in the annual course selection process. It provides a brief description of each course,

offers an overview of its content and offers an understanding of the goals of each area of

discipline.

Rising Star Academy does not ensure that the course will be offered each year. No

member of the faculty can guarantee admission to a particular course, or that a student

will have a specific teacher. Students should use this Program of Studies as a general

guide to ensure that the courses they choose:

Fulfill graduation requirements

Challenge the student’s intellect

Enhance the student’s gifts and talents

Stimulate the student’s areas of special interest

ACCREDITATION

Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools

New Jersey Department of Education

Islamic Schools League of America

College Entrance Examination Board

National Association of College Admissions Counselors

Rising Star Academy will be a model Islamic educational system, within which learners may develop to

their fullest potential and become a generation of leaders and individuals who are highly motivated to

be successful in this life and beyond.

RISING STAR ACADEMY

PROGRAM OF STUDIES

Grades 7 - 12

MISSION STATEMENT

The Mission of Rising Star Academy, a college preparatory school, is

to provide students of diverse backgrounds with comprehensive educational opportunities

by inspiring students to become lifelong learners while pursuing excellence in academic,

social, creative, and physical challenges in a risk-free environment, that is conducive to

the development of a strong Islamic moral character.

OUR CORE VALUES

Courage We display confidence and determination when facing difficult situations and choices.

We persevere when faced with challenges and always adhere to the principles of the

Quran and Sunnah to better our self and community.

Integrity We exhibit honesty, trustworthiness, and sincerity with peers, school, family and

community. We will consistently seek and speak the truth.

Kindness We genuinely show concern for the well-being of themselves, peers, family, friends,

others and the environment. We demonstrate patience, consideration, compassion,

empathy, generosity and service.

Respect We strive to create a climate of mutual respect among faculty members, peers, family,

friends and community members. We foster respect for oneself and others, with our

commonalities and differences, which will guide our actions within our community. We

will respect the natural world. We will treat others as we would like to be treated.

Responsibility We establish accountability toward self, peers, school, family, and community by

learning, working, and establishing ownership in the world we all share: school,

community, town, state, country, and world. We consider and accept the impact and

consequences of our personal decisions and actions, understand how others are affected

individually and globally. We assume a responsible role as a Muslim in our society.

Scholarship We develop and demonstrate scholarship through knowledge. We pursue academic

excellence in teaching and learning. We establish and embrace a personal commitment to

life long learning.

Tolerance We demonstrate an appreciation of diversity and differences through our ability to relate

to and further understand individuals from different cultures, religions, situations, and

points of view. We maintain an awareness of history, struggles for justice and equality

and how those things affect our society.

GRADUATE PROFILE

Open to Growth

Upon high school graduation, RSA students are expected to be conscious critical

thinkers. RSA graduates use their Islamic values and education in making sound

decisions in all areas of their lives. Our graduates will possess the academic knowledge

and life skills necessary to pursue productive lives and contribute to society in a

meaningful manner.

Intellectual Competency Rooted in Islam

RSA graduates have mastered the Arabic language in order to read and understand the

wisdom in the Quran. Students will understand and implement core Islamic beliefs of

character (integrity, honesty, diligence) and worship found within the Quran. Students

leave with a steadfast ability to uphold their religious obligations of prayer, fasting, and

remembrance of Allah (SWT). They also strive to emulate the Prophet Muhammad

(PBUH). Upon setting this standard, they have developed a habit of constant reflection of

one's actions, and their contribution to their community. They view mistakes as

opportunities to grow and experiences that make them wiser in achieving better, long-

term outcomes.

Core Areas of Knowledge

In addition to the Islamic education received at RSA, students will have a preliminary

mastery of the secular subjects including the physical and social sciences. The elementary

level will work as a preparatory stepping stone into middle school and then into our

secondary school. Upon arrival at the secondary level, students have chosen from a

variety of classes with an emphasis on the STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering,

Arts and Mathematics) curriculum. Each milestone at RSA helps foster the development

of our Stars for the next level in their educational journey.

Productive Lives

Upon graduation RSA students should be able to use the experiences and knowledge

gained to pose thought-provoking questions when needed, and offer dynamic solutions to

challenges. They should feel comfortable carrying themselves as Ambassadors of Islam.

In using their strong oratory and written skills, RSA graduates can communicate ideas

regarding their faith to non-Muslims. They are confident leaders who tackle difficult

situations with an open-mind and heart, constantly seeking to contribute to their global

community in a positive manner. Above all, RSA graduates understand that they have

just begun to unravel their potential. They are ready to meet their post-secondary

experience, first and foremost, with a trust in Allah (SWT) and secondly, a confidence of

self.

HIGH SCHOOL PROFILE

Effective for Class of 2014 and beyond

The High School Curriculum

The Academy adheres to the implementation of the Common Core Curriculum State

Standard (http:/www.corestandards.org/in-the-states) through the use of state approved

textbooks and a qualified professional staff. In addition, numerous Arabic and Islamic

Studies courses must be completed prior to graduation. All state testing standards for

graduation purposes must be met or surpassed as well to obtain an RSA diploma. To

fulfill all graduation requirements, students must earn the necessary credit and passing

grades must be earned in the following required subjects:

The following are the criteria for acceptance as a High School Program Applicant:

• 70% average of all subjects from 8th

grade

• No out- of- school suspension throughout 8th

grade

HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

In order to graduate from Rising Academy, a student must have satisfactorily

accumulated a minimum of 114 credits, which include the basic college entrance

requirements. Following is the list of courses/classes required:

Subject Area Number of Years/ Credits

ENGLISH Four years (minimum 5 credits/year)

MATHEMATICS Four years (minimum 5 credits/year)

SCIENCE (WITH LAB) Three years (minimum 5 credits/year)

HISTORY Three years (minimum 5 credits/year)

ISLAMIC STUDIES Two years (5 credits/year)

ISLAMIC HISTORY AND LAW Two years (5 credits/year)

WORLD LANGUAGE (ARABIC) Four years (minimum 5 credits/year)

COMPUTER SCIENCE AND

PROGRAMMING

Two years (2 credits/year)

PHYSICAL EDUCATION Four years (2 credits/year)

FINE ARTS One year (2 credits)

ELECTIVES Four years (minimum 3 credits/year)

****DISCLAIMER****

All high school graduation program requirements and criteria for acceptance are subject

to changes without notice as deemed necessary by the administration.

DUAL CREDIT COURSES/ LEAP PROGRAM/NJIT Advanced Academic

Achievement Options

The dual credit courses offered to RSA students are taken on-site and in HCCC Campus

(when applicable) and vary from semester to semester. Each fall and spring semester,

students are allowed to take a maximum of two dual credit courses (juniors and seniors

only). A cumulative average (RSA and dual credit courses combined) of 95% or above

and the approval of the counselor is required to take a third course. All dual credit

courses successfully completed with a B or higher will receive the credits as per list

above.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT COURSES

Rising Star Academy offers Advanced Placement courses that have been approved by the

College Board so that students can achieve college credits during their high school

education. All AP courses must pass an audit performed by the College Board before

they can be listed with the AP designation on a student’s transcript. This AP Course

authorization requires an annual review process. All AP courses offered at Rising Star

Academy have been authorized to use the official AP designation.

Courses offered at the AP level are rigorous and require more work than standard

courses. Students and parents should consider this when requesting placement in these

courses. Because of high expectations for students in AP courses, students and parents

will be required to sign a form indicating that they understand the level of work required

to successfully complete an AP course before the student will be scheduled for the AP

course. In addition, each AP course has its own specific requirements including

additional summer work, to help students prepare for the pace of work required in an

AP course.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT COURSES

The following AP courses are offered:

American History

Biology

Calculus

Chemistry

English Language and Composition

English Literature and Composition

Human Geography

Physics

Environmental Science

Students may elect to study independently for an AP Exam. While students do not

receive course credit for an independent study, the resulting score from the AP Exam is

listed in the test section of their official transcript.

* * **

GRADING:

Grading Scale:

A+ -4.5= 97-100

A -4.3= 94-96

A -4.0= 90-93

B+ -3.7= 87-89

B -3.5= 84-86

B- -3.3= 81-83

C+ -3.0= 79-80

C -2.7= 75-78

C- -2.5= 70-74

F below 69 or 2.4 (65 is passing only for learning classified students)

GPA CALCULATION:

GPA is computed using the above quality points. Beginning with grade 9, all subjects,

whether passed or failed, are included in the computation. A minimum of 114 credits is

required for graduation. In addition to the required 114 credits, each student must

complete a 200 hours community service graduation requirement. Grades are recorded on

the transcript and grade point average is computed in the end of 11th grade. Regulars and

college preparatory classes are worth 5 credits, honor classes 6 credits and AP and Dual

Credit Classes are 7 credits.

CLASS RANK

Rising Star Academy prefers not to rank its students since the concept of rank does not

accurately reflect the selective nature of our student body, our rigorous college

preparatory curriculum and individual achievements. Therefore, rank could be misleading

as an indication of a student's true academic quality and ability to perform successfully in

college. Thus, students are only ranked in order to fulfill specific college requirements.

Course Symbols

AP Advanced Placement

H Honors

CP College Prep

LEAP Dual credit with HCCC

NJIT Dual Credit with NJIT

Honor Roll System Merit Roll: 85 -89

Honor Roll: 90 -94

Principal’s List: 95-100

PSAT/SAT/ACT PREPARATION PROGRAM

Rising Star Academy provides all students with PSAT/SAT/ACT preparation programs

to better assist them in the challenges for these standardized tests. Students starting in

their 8th

grade through sophomore year are administered a PSAT test to provide practice

in the areas of Critical Reading, Math, and Writing. In the junior year students take the

PSAT test, which may qualify them for the NMSQT (The National Merit Scholarship

Qualifying Test). In the junior year, students will also work in their English and Math

classes on ACT and SAT preparation. Juniors and are strongly encouraged to take an

SAT before the end of their junior year. Seniors may take the SAT in the fall of their

senior year. Students are strongly encouraged to enroll in the SAT/ACT Summer

Intensive classes.

SEVENTH AND EIGHTH GRADE CURRICULUM SEQUENCE

GRADE 7

Islamic Studies

Quran

English

Arabic

Life Science

Connected Math 7/Pre-Algebra

Social Studies

Computer Science I: Microsoft Word and Excel

Physical Education

GRADE 8

Islamic Studies

Quran

English

Arabic

Physical Science

Algebra I

Social Studies

Computer Science II: Microsoft PowerPoint and Publisher,

Physical Education

HIGH SCHOOL CURRICULUM SEQUENCE

Freshman Courses

Islamic Studies

Quranic Studies

English I/H

Biology/H or Chemistry/H

Arabic I/H

Geometry/ H

World History

Physical Education

Electives

Public Speaking/ LEAP

Introduction to Computer Science/LEAP

Introduction to Psychology/LEAP

Introduction to Sociology/LEAP

Freshmans must choose at least two electives from the above list.

Sophomore Courses

Islamic Studies

Quranic Studies

British Literature/H

Chemistry/H/AP Biology

Algebra II/H

United States History I/H

Arabic II/H

Physical Education

Electives

Computer Science I/II

Public Speaking/ LEAP

Introduction to Psychology/LEAP

Introduction to Sociology/LEAP

Sophomores must choose at least two electives from the above list.

Junior Courses

Islamic History

Quranic Studies

American Literature/H

AP English Literature & Composition

Arabic III/H

Pre-Calculus CP/ H/ NJIT

Physics/H/AP/NJIT

Environmental Science/ AP

United States History II/H/AP

Physical Education

Electives

Chemistry AP Print Design

English Composition I/II Introduction to Business

Computer Science I/II

Juniors must choose at least two electives from the above list.

Senior Courses

Islamic Law

Quran

World Literature/H

AP English Language and Composition

Environmental Science/AP

Physics/H/AP/NJIT

Arabic IV/H

Pre-Calculus/Calculus/Calculus AP/Statistics AP

Physical Education

Electives

Chemistry AP Print Design

Introduction to Business English Composition I/II

Introductory to Psychology Computer Science I/II

Seniors must choose at least two electives from the above list.

HIGH SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

ENGLISH

English I – Survey of Literature CP This course is an integration of reading, speaking, listening and writing in a literature-

based program involving multiple genres including fiction, non-fiction, poetry, novels,

and plays. The course also builds the student’s knowledge and use of English grammar

through written and oral assignments. Students learn the necessary skills to become

effective writers. Preparation for the PSAT/SAT is included as well as educational

technology and media.

English I – Honors Survey of Literature This course is an accelerated integration of reading, speaking, listening, and writing in a

literature-based program involving multiple genres (fiction, non-fiction, poetry, novels,

and plays). The course also builds the student’s knowledge and use of English grammar

through written and oral assignments. Preparation for the PSAT/SAT is included as well

as educational technology and media.

English II – American Literature CP/ Honors

The course focuses on American literature from the Colonial era through the Modern era.

All literary genres are studied through a chronological survey of American writers.

Emphasis is placed on writing, grammar and vocabulary by learning the critical reading

skills necessary to evaluate the studied works. Writing compositions and a research

paper using current MLA standards are required. Preparation for the PSAT/SAT is

included as well as educational technology and media.

English III – British Literature CP/ Honors

This course is a survey of British authors in the first half of the year followed by a survey

of prominent American and International women writers in the second half of the year.

Emphasis is placed on analysis and composition of the literature studied. A research

paper using MLA standards is required by the end of the third quarter. Preparation for

the PSAT/SAT is included as well as educational technology and media.

English IV – World Classics CP

This course is an introduction to the literature in translation produced by various cultures

of the world. Continued emphasis will be placed on essay writing, vocabulary, and

grammar. Students will also begin their initial preparation for the research paper.

Preparation for the PSAT/SAT is included as well as educational technology and media.

English II – Honors World Classics

This course is an accelerated introduction to the literature in translation produced by

various cultures of the world. Continued emphasis will be placed on essay writing,

vocabulary, and grammar. Students will also begin their initial preparation for the

research paper. Preparation for the PSAT/SAT is included as well as educational

technology and media.

Creative Writing (Elective)

This elective workshop gives the students the opportunity to explore various techniques

that make writing effective. Students will practice these techniques in a structured

workshop setting. Various forms of poetry, as well as short story and other narrative

forms will be practiced. Students will have the opportunity to submit their work for

publication.

AP English Language and Composition

This course follows the prescribed College Board Advanced Placement English

/Composition Curriculum. This Advanced Placement course is a college-level English

course offered to seniors who completed their junior year with a B+ average for students

in AP Language, 90% for students in Honors, and teacher recommendation. The course

focuses on those skills in critical reading and composition required for success on the AP

exam given in May of each year. Students study a variety of literary genres and analyze

the material in oral and written media. Students develop competency with practice test

questions, using both the multiple-choice and essay formats. All AP students are required

to write a culminating research paper using MLA standards by the end of the third

quarter. Each student is required to take the advanced Placement Test in Literature and

Composition given in the spring.

AP English Literature and Composition This is an advanced placement program of the material presented at the Language and

American Literature level. A B+ average and teacher recommendations are a requisite to

take this course. Greater emphasis is placed on the analytical approaches to literature.

Advanced critical thinking skills are taught to help develop writing skills. The course

culminates in a literary research paper based on current MLA standards. Each student is

required to take the Advanced Placement Test in Literature and Composition given in the

spring.

SAT/ACT Prep (Grades 10 & 11) This course will focus on strengthening student’s skills needed for success on the

SAT/ACT test. Students will be provided with strategies to tackle all sections of the SAT

including critical reading, writing, and the essay. Students will also be given strategies

that will help them to succeed on the ACT reading and writing sections. There will be a

strong focus on critically reading different genres such as the social sciences, science,

literature and history. Students will take several practice exams throughout the semester

which will help them to assess and reflect on the test as a whole. Our goal is to have our

student build confidence and be prepared when it comes time to take the SAT and ACT

tests.

Public Speaking (HCCC/LEAP)

This course involves two interrelated components: imparting knowledge about speech

communication processes and developing students’ skills through active participation in

those processes. Required individual and group projects include recitation, individual

speeches, improvisations, panel discussions, oral interpretation, and interviewing

techniques.

MATHEMATICS

Pre-Algebra (Grades 7, 8) This course is designed to give students a strong foundation in elementary algebra. It

covers topics such as linear equations, graphing, linear inequalities, percentages,

proportions, operations with polynomials, and rational expressions.

Algebra I (Grade 8) This course is designed to give students a strong foundation in high school algebra. It

explores quadratic equations and functions as well as their graphic representations. This

course addresses such concepts as exponents, radicals, complex numbers, probability,

conic sections and introductory linear algebra.

Honors Algebra I (Grade 8) This course is designed for students who have a strong preparation in the fundamental

principles of algebra. In addition to covering the material of the Pre-Algebra course, it

explores quadratic equations and functions as well as their graphic representations. This

course addresses such concepts as exponents, radicals, complex numbers, probability,

conic sections and introductory linear algebra.

Geometry This freshman year course covers basic principles of Euclidean geometry. Topics covered

are congruency and similarity of polygons, properties of parallel lines and circles. The

course also introduces such concepts as logic, area and volume.

Honors Geometry This is the second course of the honors program. In addition to the material covered in

the regular geometry course, students are introduced to the concept of proof. They also

cover 3-D geometry.

Algebra II

This course is the continuation of the Algebra I course. It covers such topics as rational

exponential and quadratic functions, complex numbers, logarithms, sequences and series.

The T1-83 calculator is used to graph complex functions, which aids in researching the

functions.

Honors Algebra II

This is an accelerated course designed as a continuation of the Algebra I course. It covers

such topics as rational exponential and quadratic functions, complex numbers,

logarithms, sequences and series. The T183 calculator is used to graph complex

functions, which aids in researching the functions.

Pre-Calculus

This course covers such topics as rational and logarithmic functions and their graphic

representations, as well as an in–depth study of trigonometry. The T1-83 calculator is

used to graph complex functions, which aids in researching the functions.

Honors Pre-Calculus

This course introduces such topics as graphic representations of rational functions as well

as advanced logarithmic and exponential functions. The course takes an in-depth look at

trigonometry and introduces alternative coordinate systems such as polar. The course

concludes with the introduction to linear algebra. The T1-83 calculator is used to graph

complex functions, which aids in researching the functions.

NJIT Pre-Calculus

This course is a dual credit course that follows the NJIT Math 139 syllabus.

AP Calculus

AP Calculus is a course that requires students to learn the fundamental concepts and

mathematics of calculus and to recognize and formulate connections graphically,

analytically, numerically, and verbally between topics. It is expected from this course that

students will gain mathematical skill, understanding and use of technology to help them

be successful in further mathematics classes and in their future careers. Students are

expected to think hard, try different approaches to problems, and enjoy seeing their

understanding of mathematics grow. Each student is required to take the Advanced

Placement Test in Calculus given in the spring.

SAT Math A/B (Grades 10 & 11 – Half Year Course)

This course is designed to help students prepare for the rigors of taking the

PSAT/SAT/ACT tests offered. Our primary goal is to identify and implement test taking

strategies using prerequisite knowledge to increase student performance. Students in this

course should have passed Algebra 2 or are taking it concurrently.

ISLAMIC AND QURANIC STUDIES

Islamic History (grades 9 and 10)

This year the 9th/10th grade Islamic Studies will cover a variety of topics that will help

prepare the students for their upcoming years in high school. The intention of this course

is to engage students in discussions where they feel comfortable addressing issues they

face. In doing, this we hope to provide for them Quranic teachings and Hadith so that

they may understand Islam’s take on these issues.

Islamic Law (11th

and 12th

)

This year the 11th/12th grade Islamic Studies will cover a variety of Islamic topics that

will help prepare the students for the upcoming years in universities, equipping them with

an experience that will help shape them to become Muslim role models in the real world.

Quranic Studies (9th

-12th

)

Each grade level is assigned several Surahs from the Quran. Students learn how to recite

the ayahs (verses) with proper tajweed skills and then memorize them. Class discussions

include the meaning (tafseer) of the ayahs and lessons learned.

Islam and Political Integration

This course is designed to give students an overview of the development of Islam as a

political force. Students will study the times of the Prophet (S), to the Khalifas, the

Umayyads, Ottomans and the modern era.

SCIENCE

Biology CP

This course introduces the student to the study of basic chemistry, the scientific method

and the importance of ethics in science. The cell as basic unit of life, genetics, concepts

of evolution and ecology are included in the course. Classification of life forms, their

basic structures, and interactive labs have a focus in this general course in biology.

Honors Biology

This course covers the same material as the general biology course; however, the

concepts are more fully developed to prepare students for taking AP Biology. Interactive

labs are included.

Chemistry CP

In this course the structure, composition, properties and reactions that matter undergoes

will be studied through an integrated program of lecture, discussion, demonstrations,

laboratory experiments and problem solving sessions. Topics covered include atomic

theory, stoichiometry gas laws, mole theory, periodicity and quantitative analysis.

Laboratory experiments are an integral part of this course.

Honors Chemistry

In this course the structure, composition, properties and reactions that matter undergoes

will be studied through an integrated program of lecture, discussion, demonstrations,

laboratory experiments and problem solving sessions. Topics covered include atomic

theory, stoichiometry gas laws, mole theory, periodicity and quantitative analysis. This

course more in-depth application of the concepts presented in the College Preparatory

Chemistry course. Laboratory experiments are an integral part of this course.

Physics CP

In this course energy and the way it interacts with matter in the universe will be studied.

Topics will include motion, light, sound, heat, electricity, magnetism, nuclear studies.

Laboratory experiments are an integral part of this course.

Honors Physics

In this laboratory-based course, students learn the basic motions of the universe and the

equations that describe them. Topics include Newtonian physics, thermal physics and

fluid dynamics, waves and optics, electricity and magnetism, and atomic and nuclear

physics. Students will perform experiments and interpret the results of observations,

activities which involve the assessment of experimental errors and uncertainties.

Environmental/Earth Science (Grades 12) This course is an introduction to environmental science and the basic principles of

geology, meteorology, oceanography and the earth’s place in the solar system. Changes

to the earth when disturbed will also be explored. Interactive labs are included.

AP Biology This intensive course, which is taught on a college level of instruction, is offered to

students who have a B average in honors biology and honors chemistry, and are seriously

considering a future in any biology and health-related field. Students will complete

interactive labs and will have the opportunity through the College Boards Advanced

Placement Examination to earn college credits. Each student is required to take the

Advanced Placement Test in Biology given in the spring.

AP Chemistry (currently available as independent study) This course follows the prescribed College Board Advanced Placement Chemistry

curriculum. It is designed to be a comprehensive college level course using a college

level text. Fundamental topics will be reviewed. There will be in-depth study of chemical

bonding, molecular geometry, thermodynamics, electrochemistry, and equilibrium,

qualitative and quantitative analysis. College level laboratory experiments are an integral

part of this course. Each student is required to take the Advanced Placement test in

Chemistry given in the spring.

AP Environmental Science

Expanding human impact on the earth’s environment has created problems of staggering

proportion. The effects of rapid population growth, industrialization, deforestation and

over-exploitation of natural resources have dramatically altered both local and global

ecosystems. It is the goal of the AP Environmental course to provide students with

sufficient background to understand the multiplicity of issues facing our environment.

Interactive labs are available, as well as field activities. Each student is required to take

the Advanced Placement test in Environmental Science given in the spring.

AP Physics 1

AP Physics 1 is an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course. Students

cultivate their understanding of Physics through inquiry-based investigations as they

explore topics such as Newtonian mechanics (including rotational motion); work, energy,

and power; mechanical waves and sound; and introductory, simple circuits. Students

explore principles of Newtonian mechanics (including rotational motion); work, energy,

and power; mechanical waves and sound; and introductory, simple circuits. The course is

based on six Big Ideas, which encompass core scientific principles, theories, and

processes that cut across traditional boundaries and provide a broad way of thinking

about the physical world. Each student is required to take the Advanced Placement test in

Physics 1 given in the spring.

NJIT Physics (Physics I and Physics I Lab)

This course is a dual credit course that follows the NJIT Physics 111/111A NJ syllabus.

NJIT Chemistry

This course is a dual credit course that follows the NJIT Chemistry 125 syllabus.

HISTORY / SOCIAL STUDIES

World History CP/H This course is designed to give students an overview of the establishment of civilizations.

Students will learn about the early development of the Middle East, the Americas, Asia,

Europe, and Africa. The course of study will take students from the era of Pre-history

beginning 4 million years ago to the Renaissance Era of the 17th

century. Students will

gain an understanding of the complex global community in which we live and participate.

They will learn about political, economic, social, cultural, and religious development

throughout the world.

United States History I CP/H This course is a chronological survey of American History from the colonial period to the

Reconstruction Era. It begins with the life of the Native Americans before Columbus, the

coming of early explorers, the settlement of Jamestown in 1607. It ends with

Reconstruction after the Civil War. An in-depth study is made on pertinent topics within

the scope of the chronological survey.

Pre-AP US History I AP United States History I is a college level history course offered to sophomores who

completed their freshman year with a B+ average and a teacher recommendation. The

course begins with the settlement of the American Indians and concludes with the end of

the Civil War. Each student is required to take the Advanced Placement test at the end of

their junior year.

United States History II CP/H

This course includes both a chronological and a topical approach to American History.

Beginning with the Jacksonian era up through World War II, the Cold War, the Vietnam

War, and the end of the Cold War, the course emphasizes domestic and international

problems and an intensive analysis of the American political, economic and social

systems.

AP US History II This intensive study course is for juniors and is a continuation from the previous

Advanced Placement United States History I course. It begins with Reconstruction and

concludes with current events. All AP students are required to write a social issue paper

based upon their modern history project utilizing the current MLA standards. Each

student is required to take the Advanced Placement Test in US History at the end of their

junior year.

AP Human Geography

AP Human Geography covers a range of relevant topics related to international relations,

economics, anthropology, geography, and environmental science. The course is

comprehensive and will give your children a thorough understanding of the causes,

effects, and future of globalization. Students also learn how to use spatial concepts and

analysis of landscapes to understand human socioeconomic organization and its

environmental consequences. Each student is required to take the Advanced Placement

test in AP Human Geography given in the spring.

WORLD LANGUAGE/ ARABIC

Arabic I, II, III, IV

These four leveled courses aim to present and teach the Arabic language with respect to

the four language skills - listening, speaking, reading and writing. Students will build on

what was acquired in their elementary and middle school Arabic classes. Vocabulary,

grammar and comprehension skills will be presented in class discussions and applied in

writing pieces. The emphasis will be on the spoken language, as well as on providing a

foundation of basic Arabic script.

TECHNOLOGY/COMPUTER DEPARTMENT

Introduction to Computer Science (HCCC/LEAP)

This course will introduce students to the breadth of computer science through a variety

of topics. Emphasis is on the conceptual ideas of computing. Students will develop the

computational practices of algorithm development, problem solving and programming

within the context of relevant problems.

Print Design (HCCC/LEAP)

This course will teach students how art concepts apply to the digital realm. Students will

be challenged on design principles such as: color theory through hexadecimal

equivalents, positive and negative space, printing techniques and challenges, and digital

artistic techniques. Students will discuss such topics as digital copyright, digital vs.

tradition art as it affects the viewer and the artist’s message; and which tools will allow

one to simplify the process. Multiple programs will be utilized according to the different

topics.

HEALTH / PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Physical Education I

This course offers a wide variety of physical activities for students. The course is

designed in accordance with New Jersey Standards. Classes in team sports, individual

and dual sports, physical fitness, health and wellness, and games are conducted to

enhance the student’s physical growth and promote lifetime physical activity.

Health I – Self-Image (Integrated within PE Sessions)

This course includes basic health topics such as self-concept, self-image, nutrition, the

importance of health, wellness and exercises, and emotional needs. Emphasis is placed

on personal responsibility for current and long-term health.

Physical Education II

This course offers a wide variety of physical activities for students. The course is

designed in accordance with New Jersey Standards. Classes in team sports, individual

and dual sports, physical fitness, health and wellness, and games are conducted to

enhance the student’s physical growth and promote lifetime physical activity.

Health II – Bullying and Relationship Violence (Integrated within PE Sessions)

This course offers a wide variety of issues that affect students of all ages, mainly high

school students. Students will discuss in detail how to help someone who is bullied, how

to ignore being bullied, how to avoid dangerous relationships, and how to choose who

you surround yourself with. Emphasis is placed on bullying and relationships, so that

students will develop an understanding of how to prevent and walk away from bullying

and avoid dangerous relationships.

Physical Education III

This course offers a wide variety of physical activities for students. The course is

designed in accordance with New Jersey Standards. Classes in team sports, individual

and dual sports, physical fitness, health and wellness, and games are conducted to

enhance the student’s physical growth and promote lifetime physical activity.

Health III & IV– First Aid and Nutrition (Integrated within PE Sessions)

In Health III & IV, students will study safety and emergency care. The proper

procedures for administering First Aid for various emergencies such as burns, sprains,

fractures and temperature related injuries will be examined with an emphasis on the

responsibility of the caregiver in handling the emergencies.

Physical Education IV

This course offers a wide variety of physical activities for students. The course is

designed in accordance with New Jersey Standards. Classes in team sports, individual

and dual sports, physical fitness, health and wellness, and games are conducted to

enhance the student’s physical growth and promote

lifetime physical activity.