Summer 2023 Course Catalog

English I

• The English program at Sofos Preparatory Academy concentrates on the development of four integral skills, which are essential for succeeding across the curriculum: reading, written communication, oral communication, and critical thinking. Students are required to actively participate in lessons through discussions, writing in and out of class, note taking during lectures, and group projects. At the start of each semester, teachers provide a syllabus with guidelines regarding homework, quizzes and tests, paper formatting, deadlines, and other information for each class.

English II

• The English program at Sofos Preparatory Academy concentrates on the development of four integral skills, which are key to succeeding across the curriculum: reading, written communication, oral communication, and critical thinking. In this class, students will read a variety of literary genres with a focus on the theme of Imperialism. We read a variety of short texts, poems, nonfiction, and a novel, typically Things Fall Apart, by Chinua Achebe.

English III

• The goal of this class is to read fiction, poetry, and essays that will be challenging but not overwhelming to the average high school junior. These works will come from a range of countries and cultures and will be very different in style and content. In addition to a literary approach, some works will be examined in a historical and social context to shed light on the author’s ideas. Students will also write several papers, each completed only after it has gone through multiple drafts. Students will be expected to participate in discussions regardless of their level of spoken English.

English IV

• The goal of this class is to read fiction, poetry, and essays that will be challenging but not overwhelming to the average high school senior. These works will come from a range of countries and will be very different in style and content. In addition to a literary approach, some works will be examined in a historical and social context to shed light on the author’s ideas. Students will also write several papers, each completed only after it has gone through multiple drafts. Students will be expected to participate in discussions regardless of their level of spoken English.

English Skills

• This course is designed to reinforce cross-­‐disciplinary standards and to provide the tools necessary for student success through a well-­‐developed curriculum. The focus will be on key cognitive skills, foundational skills, organizational skills, and time-­‐management. Students will learn several strategies to improve reading, writing, mathematics, test-­‐taking, note-­‐making, research, computer, and study skills.

AP English Literature & Composition

• This class is by invitation of the teacher. Students who take this class must be willing to work hard, keep to deadlines, and be open to difficult texts that even college students would find challenging. Students who do not meet the requirements will be swiftly transferred to English IV. The purpose of this course is to teach students how they can use literature to think about ethics, justice, morality, and mortality. We will look at literary characters and societies as they make moral and ethical choices. The job of the student will be to understand the philosophical and religious basis of morality and use that as a tool to evaluate the literature they read, their own actions and ideas, and the make-­‐up of Western society in which they live. In this course, we will examine the worldviews of various authors to begin to comprehend the choices and dialogue of their characters. We will also study how the characters’ actions affect family and society at large.

Algebra I

• Algebra I introduces various topics that comprise elementary algebra. Students not only acquire important algebraic skills to simplify problems and solve equations, but they also gain an understanding of the concepts that lie at the heart of algebraic manipulations. In so doing, this course directly prepares the student for the questions concerning algebra on the mathematics sections of the SAT and ACT exams, as well as providing a solid foundation on which to build in subsequent mathematics courses such as Geometry, Algebra II, and Trigonometry. Major topics include the algebraic modeling of real life problems, solving and graphing equations and inequalities; systems of equations; ratios, and proportions; properties and use of exponents; mathematical modeling using functions, tables, and graphs; number patterns, counting methods, and permutations; polynomials and factoring; radical expressions and equations.

Integrated Math 1

• This is a one-year college prep course that meets state graduation requirements. This course includes the following topics: An overview of functions (linear, quadratic and exponential) in function form, graphs, and tables; Linear equations and inequalities in one and two variables; Geometric constructions; Congruence and rigid motions; Geometric relationships and properties of triangles, parallel lines, quadrilaterals and circles; Analyzing and interpreting data in one and two variables.

Geometry

• This one-year course reinforces and extends the mathematical foundation established in the Algebra I course. It offers an in-depth investigation of the topics of a yearlong course in Geometry while revisiting numerous algebraic topics from a geometric perspective. Semester One is devoted to the study of basic principles, reasoning and proof, parallel and perpendicular lines, congruent triangle theory, and special relationships within triangles. Important theorems from semester one include the isosceles triangle theorem and the proof that all triangles have angles whose sum is 180 degrees. Semester Two is devoted to a study of quadrilaterals, area, perimeter, and circumference, similarity theory, and right triangle trigonometry. The major objectives of this course are a thorough understanding of mathematical topics as tested in both the SAT and the ACT. By the end of this course, a student will have, among other things, complete familiarity with the x-­‐y plane, a facility with the Pythagorean Theorem, and the ability to find measurements indirectly using trigonometry and a calculator.

Integrated Math 2

• This is a one year college prep course that meets state graduation requirements. This course includes the following topics: Similarity; Coordinate geometry; Trigonometric ratios; Quadratic functions; Quadratic equations; Probability. Prerequisite: Integrated Math 1/Algebra 1.

Algebra II/Trigonometry

• This course reviews and extends the mathematical investigations of the previous two courses into the study of function theory, trigonometry, systems of equations and inequalities, and exponential and logarithmic functions. It constitutes the third-year course in the Mathematics Department Syllabus progression. Prerequisite: Algebra I and Geometry.

Integrated Math 3

• The following units will be covered in Integrated Math 3: Statistics (Random Processes), Circles and Conics, Trigonometric Functions, Exponential Functions, Functions Capstone, Rational and Polynomial Expressions. This course will complete the 3-year Integrated Math series and includes remaining High School Common Core Math Standards that are not covered in Integrated Math 1 and Integrated Math 2. Prerequisites: Integrated Math 2/Geometry Co-requisites: Integrated Math 2 equivalent (from middle school).

Integrated Math 3 STEM

• This course is designed for students who are interested in pursuing STEM fields in college. This course is an enhanced course and not an honors course and will cover topics above the Integrated Math 3 course, including vectors, complex numbers, and advanced trigonometric function analysis. The following units will be covered in Integrated Math 3 STEM: Statistics (Random Processes), Circles and Conics, Trigonometric Functions, Vectors, Exponential Functions, Functions Capstone, Rational and Polynomial Expressions. This course will complete the 3-year Integrated Math series and includes the remaining High School Common Core Math Standards and a variety of the “plus” standards that are not covered in Integrated Math 1 and Integrated Math 2. Prerequisites: Integrated Math 2/Geometry Co-requisites: Integrated Math 2 equivalent (from middle school).

Ecology

• This one-semester elective is designed to introduce students to the environmental science aspect of ecology. A basic understanding of general biological processes such as photosynthesis and nutrient cycling is helpful but not required. Topics covered throughout the semester include analysis of biotic and abiotic factors in ecosystems; nutrient and energy cycling; food chains and food webs; the atmosphere; the greenhouse effect and global warming; water and air pollution; land use; food; waste; biodiversity and sustainability. Through participation in labs performed in class, students will acquire reasoning skills necessary for understanding and conducting scientific investigations, reinforce the topic currently being studied, and develop skills in organizing information, making observations, recording scientific data, and preparing lab reports.

Precalculus

• This course is a rigorous one year introduction to the major topics of Precalculus. Students will learn about topics that are beyond the scope of both Algebra II and Trigonometry, but which are necessary to understand Calculus. This course is recommended for any student who is interested and proficient in mathematics and wishes to expand and extend his/her knowledge in this area by pursuing the subject beyond the framework of the basic algebra and geometry course offerings. Prerequisite: Algebra II/Trigonometry (or permission of the instructor).

AP Calculus AB

• This course is designed for students who have a strong background in Precalculus, including equation theory and trigonometry, and wish to continue their study of higher-­‐level mathematics as well as take the AP Calculus AB exam in May. As such, this course is aimed at students who are hard workers and are looking for a challenge. Topics covered in past years include: functions, limits, differentiation, logarithmic & exponential functions, applications of differentiation, integration, applications of integration, and further techniques of integration. There is a heavy emphasis on problem-­‐solving, particularly in the form of word problems. Prerequisite: Precalculus (or permission of the instructor).

AP Calculus BC

• Calculus BC is an extension of Calculus AB rather than an enhancement; common topics require a similar depth of understanding. Both courses are intended to be challenging and demanding. Broad concepts and widely applicable methods are emphasized. The focus of the courses is neither manipulation nor memorization of an extensive taxonomy of functions, curves, theorems, or problem types. Thus, although facilities with manipulation and computational competence are important outcomes, they are not the core of these courses. Using the unifying themes of derivatives, integrals, limits, approximation, and applications and modeling, the course becomes a cohesive whole rather than a collection of unrelated topics. These themes are developed using all the functions listed in the Prerequisite. Prerequisite: Calculus AB, Advanced Placement.

AP Statistics

• The AP Statistics course lends itself naturally to a mode of teaching that engages students in constructing their own knowledge. For example, students working individually or in small groups can plan and perform data collection and analyses where the teacher serves in the role of a consultant, rather than a director. This approach gives students ample opportunity to think through problems, make decisions, and share questions and conclusions with other students as well as with the teacher. Important components of the course should include the use of technology, projects and laboratories, cooperative group problem solving, and writing, as a part of concept-oriented instruction and assessment. This approach to teaching AP Statistics will allow students to build interdisciplinary connections with other subjects and with their world outside school. Prerequisite: Integrated Math 3, Integrated Math 3 STEM.

Finite Mathematics

• This elective in Mathematics reinforces and extends the mathematical foundation comes from a year’s study of both Algebra and Geometry. One aim of Finite Mathematics is to strengthen a student’s basic mathematical skills in accordance with the standards of the NYS Mathematics Regents. A second basic aim is to enrich the student’s mathematical foundation with explorations of topics such as prime number theory, set theory, abstract group theory, and number theory which are not generally taught within the confines of syllabus math courses. Finite Mathematics is both practical in its emphasis on review, and interesting in its varied selection of intriguing mathematical topics.

Biology

• Biology is an exciting and rapidly growing field of study. This one year course is an introduction to the biological sciences. Students will develop a greater understanding of the fundamental principles of living organisms, including cell structure and function, animal behavior, genetics and heredity, evolution and classification, diversity of living organisms, and plant and animal structure and function. Laboratory periods are used to reinforce the topic currently being considered and to develop the necessary process skills and reasoning ability required in scientific inquiry and investigations.

AP Biology

• This yearlong lab course prepares students for the AP Biology examination as well as the SAT Subject Test in biology. Included in this course are biochemistry, cytology and cellular energy transformations, taxonomy, ecology and population dynamics, molecular genetics, heredity, and evolution.

Chemistry

• The objective of this course is to develop a working knowledge of many fundamental aspects of modern chemistry, including chemical symbols, nomenclature, and formulas, manipulation of equations, stoichiometry, aqueous solution chemistry, acids and bases, the periodic table, theories of chemical bonding, thermochemistry, atomic theory, gas laws and the states of matter. Laboratory periods are used to reinforce the topic currently being considered and allow students to acquire reasoning skills for scientific investigations. Pre-­‐requisite: successful completion or concurrent enrollment in Algebra II/Trigonometry.

AP Chemistry

• The AP Chemistry course is designed to be the equivalent of the general chemistry course usually taken during the first college year. For some students, this course enables them to undertake, in their first year, second-year work in the chemistry sequence at their institution or to register for courses in other fields where general Chemistry is required.

Physics

• This course is a one year introduction to the major topics of physics. You will learn about the dynamic relationships between matter and energy. Modern applications of the preceding principles will be emphasized. To fully understand and apply physical principles, you should have a thorough grasp of algebra-­‐based problem solving skills.

AP Physics 1

• Physics I, Advanced Placement, is part of the college board’s redesign of Physics B, Advanced Placement, currently an approved AP course in our district. The Physics I Advanced Placement course is equivalent to a first-semester college course in algebra-based physics. The course covers Newtonian mechanics (including rotational dynamics and angular momentum), work, energy, power, mechanical waves, and sound. It will also introduce electric circuits. Prerequisite: Completion of Integrated Math 2 or higher math with a grade of B or better. Enrollment in Integrated Math 3 STEM or higher.

AP Physics 2

• Physics 2, Advanced Placement is the second course in the College Board’s redesigned algebra based introductory college level physics course. It follows the currently approved AP Physics 1 course. Students explore the principles of fluids, thermodynamics, electricity, magnetism, advanced electrical circuits, physical and geometric optics, and a variety of modern physics topics such as quantum mechanics, atomic physics, and nuclear physics. Continuing the focus on inquiry-based learning fostered in AP Physics 1, students will continue to develop their scientific critical thinking and reasoning skills. Prerequisite: AP Physics 1 or Physics/Physics Honors Co-Requisites: Completion of, or concurrent enrollment in, Integrated Math 3 STEM or higher math

Ecology

• This one semester elective is designed to introduce students to the environmental science aspect of ecology. A basic understanding of general biological processes such as photosynthesis and nutrient cycling is helpful but not required. Topics covered throughout the semester include analysis of biotic and abiotic factors in ecosystems; nutrient and energy cycling; food chains and food webs; the atmosphere; the greenhouse effect and global warming; water and air pollution; land use; food; waste; biodiversity and sustainability. Through participation in labs performed in class, students will acquire reasoning skills necessary for understanding and conducting scientific investigations, reinforce the topic currently being studied, and develop skills in organizing information, making observations, recording scientific data, and preparing lab reports.

Spanish I

• At the end of this course, students will be able to hold a basic conversation and make simple requests similar to the ones found in a traveler’s language guide. They will be able to introduce themselves, give information about themselves, order a meal in a restaurant, shop, count money, ask for directions, and seek medical care. And last but not least, make friends.

Spanish II

• The objective of Spanish II is to obtain proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in the target language. In addition, students will acquire a firm linguistic base, which is the foundation of effective communication and meaningful language proficiency. To develop a more concise world-­‐view, students will learn to situate the language within the context of the contemporary Spanish–speaking world and its cultures. The emphasis in this course sequence is to actively apply the fundamentals that were introduced in the preliminary Spanish course (Spanish I). Students will develop their communication skills by learning to express complex thoughts and ideas. Among the verb forms studied are the present, the imperfect, the subjunctive, the reflexive, the imperative, the future, the future perfect, and the conditional. To facilitate thinking in the target language in an abstract manner, a variety of literary texts are read and discussed. In addition, specific attention will be paid to correct pronunciation and diction. Prerequisite: Spanish I.

Spanish III

• The objective of Spanish III is to refine listening, speaking, reading, and writing in the target language. In addition, students will strengthen and expand their linguistic base, thus enhancing the foundation of effective communication and meaningful language proficiency. Students will continue to learn to situate the language within the context of the contemporary Spanish–speaking world and its cultures. The emphasis in this course sequence is to actively apply the fundamentals that were introduced in the primary and secondary Spanish courses (Spanish I and Spanish II). Students will develop their communication skills by learning to express complex thoughts and ideas. Written assignments of a more substantial length will afford students the opportunity to write in a more academic manner. Among the verb forms reviewed are the present, the imperfect, the preterit, the reflexive, the imperative, the future, the future perfect, the conditional, the present perfect, and the subjunctive and imperfect subjunctive. Students will learn grammar within the context of various authors, such as Ana María Matute, Horacio Quiroga, and Luis C. Infante. The literary context in which students encounter the language will allow them to think critically about the ideas and situations presented by the authors. In addition, specific attention will be paid to correct pronunciation and diction and the subtle nuances of spoken language. Prerequisite: Spanish II.

Spanish IV

• The objective of Spanish IV is to further the communication skills acquired in Spanish III, with the aim of language proficiency. The course includes extensive oral expression. Authentic audio and video recordings, as well as native Spanish speakers, are accessed to improve comprehension and conversation. Reading selections from authentic materials and selected Hispanic literature are read for comprehension. Discussion, debate, projects, compositions, and other directed writings demonstrate an understanding of the culture and the complexities of the language and vocabulary. The majority of the course is conducted in Spanish. Prerequisite: Spanish III.

French 1

• French one (1) students are introduced to basic structures and vocabulary dealing with everyday situations that enable them to communicate effectively in French at a basic level. Students start developing all five communication skills: listening, speaking, reading, writing, and cultural awareness.

French 2

• French two (2) students continue their study of the five communication skills: Listening, speaking, reading, writing, and cultural awareness of French. Students can understand simple questions related to personal interests and initiate simple conversations. They develop the ability to read short texts and write short paragraphs dealing with everyday life. Prerequisite: French 1.

French 3

• French three (3) students expand upon and enrich the base of knowledge acquired in French 1 and 2. As students enter the intermediate level of language proficiency, they learn to discuss and write about personal experiences and their lives at home and school. They learn to communicate their needs using more complex verb tenses and grammatical structures. Students are also introduced to short literary texts and other authentic documents. Prerequisite: French 2.

French 3 AP

• The AP French Language and Culture course takes a holistic approach to language proficiency and recognizes the complex interrelatedness of comprehension and comprehensibility, vocabulary usage, language control, communication strategies, and cultural awareness. The course strives to promote both fluency and accuracy in language use and not overemphasize grammatical accuracy at the expense of communication. To best facilitate the study of language and culture, the course is taught in the target language. The course engages students in an exploration of culture in both contemporary and historical contexts. The course develops students’ awareness and appreciation of products, both tangible (e.g., tools, books, music) and intangible (e.g., laws, conventions, institutions); practices (patterns of social interactions within a culture); and perspectives (values, attitudes, and assumptions that underlie both practices and products). Prerequisite: French 3.

Art/Drawing

• This course emphasizes Art/Drawing Elements (Line, Shape, Color, Texture, Tone) and Principles (Focal Point, Balance, Leading Lines, Pattern, Perspective, Proportion and Scale). In the first part of the class, students explore drawing/printmaking exercises that help them develop technical skills with various art materials in relationship to the Elements and Principles. In the second part of the class, students choose a socially-­‐engaged theme or topic and then use their drawing/printmaking skills to create one or more substantially sized compositions that express their chosen theme. Students then present their final composition(s) at the Student Exhibition at the end of the semester, using critique methods that have been taught throughout the entire semester.

Digital Photography

• Students are introduced to basic techniques of digital photography through a series of group discussions and photography assignments. Assignments emphasize skills related to Rule-­‐of-­‐Thirds, composition, natural and artificial light, focal point, leading lines, depth of field, and other visual aesthetics techniques. Students visit various museums and galleries, San Francisco and Bay area “iconic” locations, and a Reprographics business. Students will print out several of their digital photos and present a thematic series of prints at an Exhibition at the end of the semester, using critique methods that have been taught throughout the entire semester.

Films & Filmmaking

• This course presents the history of cinema from its birth to today. We study films and filmmakers who are critical to the evolution of the medium in terms of technique and societal and cultural impact. We review all of the cinemas’ media relatives, from radio, newsreels, music videos, and commercials to YouTube and Snapchat. We also explore the technical aspects of how films are made so that we can apply these techniques to the process of making films via project-based learning. The overall goal is to illuminate students to the essential works of cinema and media and apply this knowledge to the making of films.