Piscataway High School offers a variety of courses to meet the educational needs of all of our students. Course selection is the beginning of the journey to your future. Decisions regarding your academic and career goals involve thought and planning.

Your high school transcript is an important record of your high school achievement as a snapshot of your four years at PHS. The transcript includes a record of all courses taken, grades earned, honors and awards, and other personal information. Your transcript is probably the most important document for determining post high school educational and employment opportunities.

The 2023-2024 Program of Study provides you and your families with descriptions of Piscataway’s course offerings; as well as an explanation of graduation requirements mandated by the New Jersey State Department of Education and the Piscataway Board of Education. We urge you to take the time to read this information carefully.

THE PROCESS OF COURSE SELECTION

Your teachers will make course recommendations based on your present and past performance.
Your counselor will meet with you individually and in small groups to help you plan your high school program.
Your family is important in this process and will review your course selections with you.
Grade 8 students will design a tentative 4-year plan, which will be revised and edited each year with their counselors.
Due to the extensive number of courses offered, students may not be able to be scheduled for every course requested and may need to make choices regarding alternate selections.
Courses that lack sufficient enrollment may not be offered.

RECOMMENDED COURSE LOAD

You may fill in your program with electives that help to enrich your background, complete entrance requirements for specific schools, or offer experiences in the area of special talents. Students are encouraged to fill their schedule with academic courses and not to select an academic study hall.

It is important to select alternate elective choices because in the event of a schedule conflict, every attempt will be made to use the alternate course.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

All courses will be offered based on enrollment, local requirements, and changes in the New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standards, Common Core State Standards and New Jersey Student Learning Standards for Science.
Students who are interested in early graduation should inquire about the procedure from their counselor by first semester junior year.
Eligibility requirements for participation in extracurricular activities and athletics are listed in the Student Handbook.
Students who are interested in participating in athletics in college must take courses that meet the NCAA Guidelines. Please discuss this interest with your counselor as well as your high school coach.
Failures: Any student who fails to attain the minimum number of required courses or credits will automatically become a five-year student unless the failures are made up in summer school.
Please note that U.S. History 1 must be successfully completed before U.S. History 2
Please note that English 1, 2, & 3 must be successfully completed before taking English 2, 3, & 4 respectively.

This policy will be strictly adhered and has been established because of the work requirements in each course. Exceptions to this policy can only be made with the approval of the High School Principal.

Independent Study is available for students who feel they can profit from independent work. Although the methods of evaluation depend largely on the students’ personal goals, conferences, written and multimedia reports, and discussions are among the methods used to determine the progress of each student. Independent Study must be requested in writing from student to the subject specific supervisor and grade and level assistant principal.

SCHEDULE CHANGES

Scheduling presents quite a challenge with such a large student population. Careful planning should go into your course selections. When you decide on the courses you want to take, your requests should be a list of courses you intend to complete. Your course selection should be discussed and finalized with your counselor and your family in the early spring. Schedule modifications will be made during the summer in cases such as:

failing grades in pre-requisite courses
state assessment or standardized assessment scores
district summer competency assessment scores; summer school credit recovery

SPECIAL EDUCATION

For students that are classified, the special education department offers a comprehensive list of programs in order to accommodate the various educational needs of students. Piscataway High School programs for special education students include general education with supports, in-class resource, resource room and self-contained settings. A student’s academic, social and behavioral needs are considered when developing a student’s individual program. Special education programs provide classified students with all the required courses as outlined in the student’s IEP and in compliance with the District’s mandates.

The brief description of the programs are below:

General education with support placement is a program that provides special education students with the support in a general education environment based upon their individual needs.

In-class resource placement provides special education students the benefits of a general educational environment that is supported by two teachers: general education and special education. The general education teacher provides the content expertise and complies with the student’s individual educational plan. The special education teacher provides the expertise in the individual supports, modification and accommodation as designated in the student’s IEP.

Resource placement provides special education students a smaller setting where the instruction is specialized and individualized to address a student’s specific educational needs such as a smaller setting, an adjusted pace or specialized programs. The pace of instruction and content is modified in this program. These needs are determined on an individual basis and vary from student to student.

Self-contained settings allow students with significant cognitive needs to have the individualized instruction that is based upon their academic and functional levels. The supports in this setting vary and are determined based upon the specific needs of the individual student.

The IEP team makes that program recommendations in conjunction with the testing and information provided by the Child Study Team. The IEP team consists of the student’s case manager, parent/guardian of the student, student, general education teacher, special education teacher, counselor/transition coordinator, and any other necessary personnel that has specific knowledge regarding the student. Upon entrance into Piscataway High School, classified students are assigned a case manager that designs, monitors and ensures implementation that is in compliance with State and Federal code. Educational programs are reviewed annually and changed or modified to address the needs of the individual student.

ACADEMY PROGRAM

Piscataway High School is committed to providing our students excellent comprehensive learning opportunities to achieve personal excellence. We recognize the various potentials and talents of our students. This year, PHS will offer six Academy programs in the areas of Business, Engineering, Health Sciences, Performing Arts, Pre-Law & Justice (classes of 2024-2026), and Visual Arts, providing students opportunities to explore career fields of their own choice. Selected students will follow the four year recommended sequence of courses and graduate with honors upon completing all requirements.

DUAL CREDIT PROGRAM

For students who are interested in earning college credits for courses taken at Piscataway High School, the concurrent credit program is available to students who meet specific departmental prerequisite requirements. In this program, teachers become adjunct professors for local colleges and universities with the curriculum taught at the high school following the college syllabus. The cost of tuition is absorbed by the student’s family.

Students who earn the minimum final grade for the course are awarded high school credits along with three or four college credits (depending on the course), which are generally transferable to two- or four-year colleges.

The following courses are currently offered for concurrent credit:

Mathematics Department: College Algebra, Precalculus
English Department: College Writing
Business Department: Honors Accounting; Business Organization, and Management (Honors)
Science Department: Anatomy & Physiology I for the Health Science Careers (H); Anatomy & Physiology II for the Health Science Careers (H)

STUDENT OPTION

In addition to the traditional program, students will also be able to choose one of the following options:

Internship Program – An unpaid internship in some aspect of the adult world of government, business, or the service professions.
Off-site College Courses – Students enroll in courses at a local college or on line with the cost of tuition absorbed by the student’s family; department approval required.

Internship Program

Internship examples are business, law, government, medicine, the sciences, the arts, broadcasting, etc.
Topic/field of interest researched by the student.
Student may be enrolled in an abbreviated PHS schedule.
Student must be able to satisfy the graduation credit requirement by the end of the senior year.
Transportation provided by the student.
Student must have met graduation assessment requirements, a satisfactory attendance, academic, and disciplinary record.
Securing the internship is the responsibility of the student.
Student will be required to demonstrate learning through a field journal, portfolio, presentation, etc.
Student will be required to meet regularly with the Senior Option Project Coordinator.
District review and approval of student program application for Internship Program.

Off-Site College Courses

Student researches desired courses.
Courses must be reviewed and approved by the Student Option Project Coordinator.
All costs paid by the student’s family.
Student may have an abbreviated high school schedule.
Student must be able to satisfy the graduation credit requirement by the end of the senior year.
Student must have met graduation assessment requirements, a satisfactory attendance, academic, and disciplinary record.
Student must adhere to college policies and procedures.

EARLY RELEASE

Early release privilege is available to seniors who are on track for graduation; this includes being in progress of passing credit/course requirements, have met the graduation assessment requirements, and is in good academic and disciplinary standing. Early release form must be completed and signed by parent/guardian, school counselor and assistant principal. Questions or concerns about the early release privilege should be directed to the student’s school counselor.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT COURSES

Piscataway High School offers twenty five (25) AP Courses to prepare our students to be successful in higher order thinking measured by AP examinations. By participating in AP classes you can not only earn college credit, but when in college, you will have time to move into upper-level courses in your field of interest, pursue a double major, and/or study abroad. Enrollment in AP classes at PHS will give you the flexibility to get the most out of your college years. We encourage every student to take advantage of this unique learning experience that will help you succeed in college. Advanced Placement students at PHS demonstrate their maturity and readiness for college while emphasizing their commitment to academic excellence – the hallmark of Piscataway High School.

Please review the AP course descriptions contained within this course selection guide. While prerequisite courses are listed in the description, students may also seek teacher recommendation and department chair approval with counseling to register for these courses. Parents may also sign a waiver to place students in AP level classes. Teachers, counselors, and department chairs will monitor students and advise them of supports that are available to students, such as tutoring, study groups, and AP Saturday Academy. Students should enroll in the district summer program, AP SNEAK PEEK, for two weeks of pre course instruction, giving students an advantage when entering AP courses.

Why not become part of a community of learners and teachers who are passionate, curious, and committed to academic excellence? You can engage in intense discussions, learn to write clearly and persuasively, and solve problems collaboratively. Take AP courses at PHS which reflect the level of learning that is occurring at universities throughout the country.

HONORS COURSES

In addition to Advanced Placement courses, Piscataway High School offers several honors courses in Business, English, Mathematics, Music, Science, Social Studies, and World Language.

It is recommended students take 35-40 credits per school year:

GRADUATION CREDIT REQUIREMENTS
Subject	Number of Credits
English Language Arts	20
Social Studies U.S. History World Cultures	10 5
Mathematics	15
Science	15-18

Visual/Performing Arts	5
Practical/Career Arts	5
World Languages	5
Physical Education – Health – Driver’s Education	16-20
NJ Economics, Business, Entrepreneurship, Financial Literacy requirement	2.5
Freshman Seminar	Must be enrolled during grade 9

Electives and Additional Courses	22.5

Total Minimum Credits	125

Students who do not demonstrate minimum proficiency as determined by District testing may be required to take remedial courses. Students who do not demonstrate minimum proficiency as determined by State testing must take remedial courses.

NJ GRADUATION ASSESSMENT REQUIREMENTS

The requirements in this section were adopted by the New Jersey State Board of Education on September 8, 2021 for the classes of 2024–2025.

English Language Arts and Literacy (ELA)

If, after completing the New Jersey Graduation Proficiency Assessment in grade 11, students did not demonstrate proficiency by passing the ELA component, such students may access the following pathways:

Second Pathway: By meeting the designated cut score on a substitute competency test such as other high school-level NJSLA/PARCC assessments, the SAT, ACT, or ACCUPLACER; or
Third Pathway: By submitting, through the district, a student portfolio appeal to the New Jersey Department of Education.

Mathematics

If, after completing the required New Jersey Graduation Proficiency Assessment in grade 11, students did not demonstrate proficiency by passing the mathematics component, such students may access the following pathways:

Second Pathway: By meeting the designated cut score on a substitute competency test such as other high school-level NJSLA/PARCC assessments, the SAT, ACT, or ACCUPLACER; or
Third Pathway: By submitting, through the district, a student portfolio appeal to the New Jersey Department of Education.

Further information can be found here:https://www.nj.gov/education/assessment/requirements/2023_2025.shtml

PISCATAWAY HIGH SCHOOL ACADEMIES

This year, PHS will offer five Academy programs:

Business Academy

Engineering Academy

Health Sciences Academy

Performing Arts Academy

Visual Arts Academy

We will offer Pre-Law and Justice Academy for the Classes of 2024-2026.

These academies provide students opportunities to explore career fields of their own choice and offer students enhanced preparation for college. Selected students will follow the four year recommended sequence of courses and graduate with honors upon completing all requirements.

Why Choose a PHS Academy?

PHS Academies offer focused curricula targeted to specific career paths.
At PHS, academies act as “schools within a school,” emphasizing specialized content areas while simultaneously offering the depth and breadth of a larger high school experience. Students at PHS Academies participate in all PHS athletics, arts, clubs, and activities.
Academy students benefit from an enhanced support system – built within students’ specific academy program. Students will have opportunities to collaborate with peers that are interested in the same field of study and participate in a team-oriented learning environment within their focused discipline.

Admission Requirements

Admission is competitive with selection based on grades, test scores, entrance assessment, extracurricular activities and prior elective choices. For the Performing Arts and Visual Arts Academies, auditions and portfolios will be required. All admission information can be found in the academy application materials.

How to Apply?

All students who wish to apply to any PHS Academy must submit a completed Academy Application in November. Applications are available on the Piscataway High School website.

Specific Academy Course Sequences

Please see the following specific information for each Academy program.

Business Academy

Purpose:

The Business Academy was created to offer options for students interested in pursuing careers in the field of Business to begin studying the field while in high school. The Business Academy offers two distinct pathways options for students to choose from. The Finance Pathway will appeal to students with a strong math background and an interest in studying all aspects of money management including accounting, investments, taxation, and fundraising. The Marketing Pathway is designed for students who are interested in a career in business but are also creative, enjoy working with others and are strong communicators.

College Preparation:

Students in the Business Academy will develop a background in either marketing or finance as well as general business concepts. These academy students also have the opportunity to earn college credit through a dual credit agreement.

Prerequisites:

Placement in the academy is limited. Student applications, and assessments will be scored on a holistic basis and admission to the academy will be offered accordingly.

Experiential Learning Hours:

Students will be required to complete a minimum of 10 hours of cohort experiences during each year of the program.

Finance Pathway

Grade	Business Academy	Possible Electives	Math	Clubs/ Activities
9	Entrepreneurship & Introduction to Business	Public Speaking	Honors Geometry or Geometry	FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America). National Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO) for Business.
10	Accounting 1	Sports Entertainment & Web Pages	Honor Algebra II or Algebra II
11	Honors Business Organization and Management	Accounting II	Precalculus
12	Introduction to Finance	AP Macroeconomics or Student Option	AP Calculus AB, BC or Honors Calculus

Marketing Pathway

Grade	Business Academy	Possible Electives	Math	Clubs/ Activities
9	Entrepreneurship & Introduction to Business	Public Speaking	Algebra I, Essentials of Geometry or Geometry or Higher Level	DECA (Distributive Education Clubs of America). National Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO) for Marketing.
10	Marketing I	Sports Entertainment & Web Page	Essentials of Geometry, Geometry, Essentials of Algebra II or Algebra II	FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America). National Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO) for Business.
11	Honors Business Organization and Management	Creative Writing, Journalism, Print Production or Graphic Design	Essentials of Algebra II, Algebra II
12	Marketing II/Advertising	Creative Writing, Journalism, Print Production (1,2), Graphic Design(1,2) or Student Option	Trigonometry & Precalculus, Applied Statistics or Discrete Math, Topics in Precalculus

Health Sciences Academy

Purpose: The Health Science Academy offers opportunities to explore health careers through a focused sequence of courses.

College Preparation: Through a partnership with Rutgers University School of Health Professions, students have an opportunity to earn up to 14 Rutgers credits upon meeting all requirements. This will provide students with an opportunity to get a jump-start on their college career through acquisition of knowledge and the development of appropriate skills.

Pre-requisites: Placement in the academy is limited. Student applications, and assessments will be scored on a holistic basis and admission to the academy will be offered accordingly.

Cohort Experience Hours: Students will be required to complete a minimum of 10 hours of cohort experiences during each year of the program.

Grade

Science I

Science II

Math

Clubs/Actives

Honors Biology

Honors Geometry or

Geometry

10 Cohort hrs.

GenEn Club

Med Club

Science League

Honors Chemistry

Honors Algebra II or Algebra II

10 Cohort hrs.

GenEn Club

Med Club

Science League

Honors Physics or Academic Physics

Human Anatomy & Physiology I for Health Science Careers

(5 HS credits + possibility of 4 Rutgers credits)

Precalculus

10 Cohort hrs.

HOSA (Health Occupation Students of America)

Science NHS

Human Anatomy & Physiology II for Health Science Careers (5 HS credits + possibility of 7 Rutgers credits)

10 Cohort hrs.

HOSA (Health Occupation Students of America)

Science NHS

Engineering Academy

Purpose:

The Engineering Academy offers opportunities to explore engineering through a focused sequence of courses. There are two pathways: General or Computer Science.

College Preparation:

Students in the engineering academy will have an opportunity to prepare for college admittance by building the foundations necessary for a major in engineering.

Pre-requisites:

Placement in the academy is limited. Student applications, and assessments will be scored on a holistic basis and admission to the academy will be offered accordingly.

Experiential Learning Hours:

Students will be required to complete a minimum of 10 hours of cohort experiences during each year of the program.

General Pathway

Grade	Engineering Academy	Project Lead the Way (PLTW)	Math	Science	Clubs/ Activities
9	Intro to Engineering	Electricity	Honors Geometry		Robotics/ Science Olympiad
10	Digital Electronics	Civil Engineering & Architecture	Honors Algebra II	Academic Chemistry	Robotics/ Science Olympiad
11	Principles of Engineering		Honors Precalculus	Honors Physics	Robotics/ FBLA
12	Computer Integrated Manufacturing		AP Calculus	AP Physics	Robotics/ FBLA

Computer Science Pathway

Grade	Project Lead the Way (PLTW)			Math	Science	Clubs/ Activities
	PLTW Required
9	Intro to Engineering			Honors Geometry	Honors Biology	Robotics
	PLTW Required	CS Required	Optional			Required
10	Principles of Engineering	Introduction to Computer Science	AP Computer Science Principles OR Digital Electronics (PLTW)	Honors Algebra 2	Honors Chemistry	TechnologyStudents of America (TSA)
	CS Required	Option A	Option B
11	AP Computer Science A	AP Computer Science Principles	Digital Electronics (PLTW)	Honors Precalculus	Honors Physics	NSBE Jr./Rutgers School of Engineering MEET
	PLTW Required	CS Required	Optional
12	Engineering Design and Development	Java Certification	AP Computer Science Principles	AP Calculus	AP Physics

Performing Arts Academy

Purpose:

Performing Arts Students will not only learn the skills needed for a proficient artistic performance, but will also develop 21st century skills that will make them college- and career-ready upon graduation from high school.

College Preparation:

Admission to a performing arts program at the university level is rooted in the student audition. Students must develop a performance repertoire over their high school years to prepare for a successful college audition. There is some flexibility in the tracks below to foster a well-rounded artistic experience.

Pre-requisites:

Courses rely on established prerequisites. middle school students should enroll in music ensembles, the extra-curricular drama club, or take advantage of the Middle School Arts Enrichment programs in order to prepare. Interested applicants should refer to the application and audition information provided. Enrollment is limited. Admission to the academy will be offered based on student performance.

Pathway	Course Sequence
Dance	Dance I	Dance II	Dance III	Independent Study/Dance IV
Theatre	Creative Dramatics	Acting Studio I	Theatre Production Workshop	Theatre Production Workshop Independent Study
		Musical Theatre Recommended
Instrumental Music	Concert Band	Honors Wind Ensemble		Honors Wind Ensemble
		Symphonic Band
	Orchestra	Honors Chamber Orchestra
Choral Music	Concert Choir	Honors Chorale		Honors Chorale
		Honors Bella Voce

Visual Arts Academy

Purpose:

The Visual Arts Academy offers many opportunities in the arts. A variety of courses have been designed to introduce students to areas of art that are enriching and allow for artistic growth and personal challenge.

College Preparation:

Admission to an art school is rooted in the student portfolio. It is best to develop skills in both 2D and 3D artwork. There is flexibility in tracks below to create a well-rounded artistic experience. The art department works carefully with students to prepare college portfolios.

Pre-requisites:

Each course relies on a prerequisite. While there is some flexibility, there is an important order to coursework. Placement in the academy is limited. Interested applicants should refer to the application and audition information provided. Students will be scored on the attached rubrics and admission to the academy will be offered based on student performance.

Pathway	Course Sequence
Drawing & Painting	Drawing & Painting I	Drawing & Painting II*	AP Drawing I	AP Drawing II
Photography	Photo Design I	Photo Design II*	AP 2D Design I	AP 2D Design II
Ceramics & Sculpture	Ceramics & Sculpture I	Ceramics & Sculpture II	Ceramics 3: The Pottery Wheel	AP 3D Design / Sculpture Independent Study
Graphic Design	Graphic Design I	Graphic Design II*	Graphic Design Independent Study	AP 2D Design I
Animation	Intro to Animation		Animation II
Additional Visual Arts Courses (added as schedule permits) World of Art Multimedia Printing & Design AP Art History Visual Arts Workshop (Teacher Recommendation) *Independent Study offered upon completion of course sequence

Pre-Law and Justice Academy

(Classes of 2024-2026)

Purpose:

The Pre‐Law and Justice Academy offers opportunities to study and explore law and justice through a focused sequence of courses and extra‐curricular experiences.

College Preparation:

Students in the Pre‐Law and Justice Academy will develop a background in law and justice, analytical thinking, and analytical writing. Course pathways incorporate Social Studies and Language Arts courses.

Pre-requisites: *

Placement in the academy is limited. Student applications and assessments will be scored on provided rubrics and admission to the academy will be offered based on grades, skills and the results of the student’s performance on the written entrance assessment.

Grade

Social Studies

ELA

Possible Electives

Partnerships

Academy Honors World Cultures (Cohort)

AP World History

Honors English – (Academy)

Possible Partnerships: NACAC (National Association College and Career Counselors; Rutgers; Rowan; Middlesex CC; along with local law career organizations (NJLEEP, etc.).

Academy Honors US 1 Law ( Cohort))

Honors English – Academy

Sociology; Journalism; African-American Experience

Facing History Business and Law Public Speaking

Philosophy Accounting

Academy Honors US History 2 Law/Mock Trial ( Cohort)

AP English Language and Composition

AP US Government and Politics

Rutgers College Writing

FRESHMAN SEMINAR

Full Year Grade 9 5 credits

Freshman Seminar is a required full-year course designed to provide 9th grade students with essential skills, supports, strategies, and understandings to succeed as PHS students and inclusive global citizens. Students will learn about available high school resources and opportunities, set personal and academic goals, develop effective work habits, build relationships, and reflect on the connection between thoughts, actions and behaviors in various contexts. Students will also explore social awareness topics, including bias, equity, and discrimination, to build understanding, respect and inclusivity.

FRESHMAN SEMINAR MENTOR COURSE

Full Year Grades 11-12 5 credits

Freshman Seminar Mentor Course is a full-year 5-credit course available to 11th and 12th grade students interested in making an impact within the school community through peer leadership and service. Students in this course will collaborate with cooperating teacher(s) to support 9th-grade peers through community-building interactions and service projects within Freshman Seminar. Mentors will learn and practice career readiness skills such as leadership and presentation skills, develop cultural competence and self-awareness, broaden relationships, and serve as role models and collaborative partners. Entrance into this course is pending application (via Schoology), interview, and completion of a mandatory multi-day mentor training camp (summer). Required coursework includes participation in ongoing mentor training and facilitation of planned activities. This course is Pass/Fail and qualifies for Career Readiness, Life Literacies, and Key Skills credit. This course is not calculated in grade point average.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS

Every student must take and pass a year of English each year that he/she attends the high school. English courses are sequential and prerequisites of each other so a student must take and pass English 1 before English 2, and English 2 before English 3, etc.

Students must have 20 credits in English in order to graduate (4 years of English at 5 credits per year).

English Department Course Offerings

	GRADE
SUBJECT	9	10	11	12	CREDITS
English 1 – Honors	X				5.0
English 1 - Academic	X				5.0
English 2 – Honors		X			5.0
English 2 – Academic		X			5.0
Advanced Placement Language and Composition			X	X	5.0
English 3 – Honors			X		5.0
English 3 – Academic			X		5.0
Advanced Placement Literature and Composition			X	X	5.0
College Writing (Honors)				X	5.0
Mythology & Composition			X	X	5.0
English 4 – Academic				X	5.0
Race and Gender in Literature			X	X	5.0
The Literature of Music		X	X	X	5.0
Independent Inquiry into the Humanities				X	5.0
Speculation in Literature			X	X	5.0
Contemporary Poetry and Performance		X	X	X	5.0
Creative Writing	X	X	X	X	5.0
Film Studies		X	X	X	5.0
Advanced Film Studies			X	X	5.0
Journalism	X	X	X	X	5.0
Journalism 2: Newspaper Production		X	X	X	5.0
Media Literacy		X	X	X	5.0
Public Speaking	X	X	X	X	2.5
Publishing and Marketing a Yearbook		X	X	X	2.5
Exploring Graphic Novels	X	X	X	X	2.5
SAT: Critical Reasoning and Problem Solving		X	X		2.5

5.0 Credits -Full Year

COURSES OFFERED TO FRESHMEN

ENGLISH 1 (Honors)

Full Year Grade 9 5 credits

This course covers a balance of reading, writing and communication skills. Literature covered will consist of drama, short stories, poetry, novels, and myths, and legends. Writing will be taught in connection with the literature. Students will be expected to perform at well-above average in reading and writing and to meet more stringent academic demands both inside and outside the classroom. This course should be taken by college-bound students who want to prepare themselves for the Honors program in tenth grade or for the more difficult elective courses in the twelfth grade.

Special Note: To take this course, students must meet the criteria for placement in accelerated ELA, including scores on reading and writing assessments, marking period grade averages, and teacher recommendations. Since this is an honors course, grades are weighted.

ENGLISH 1 (Academic)

Full Year Grade 9 5 credits

This course covers reading, writing, and communication skills. Literature covered will consist of drama, short stories, poetry, novels, and myths, and legends. Reading comprehension and vocabulary growth are stressed along with test-taking and study skills. This course should be taken by the majority of incoming freshmen.

COURSES OFFERED TO SOPHOMORES

ENGLISH 2 (Honors)

Full Year Grade 10 5 credits

This course covers novels, short stories, drama, and poetry from American Literature. There is a concentration on various writing genres such as narrative, expository, argumentative, and literary analysis as well as developing vocabulary skills and SAT preparation.

This course should be taken by college-bound students who want to prepare themselves for the Honors program in eleventh grade or Advanced Placement English courses.

Special Note: To take this course, students must meet the criteria for placement in honors English, including scores on reading and writing assessments, marking period grade averages, and teacher recommendations. Since this is an honors course, grades are weighted.

ENGLISH 2 (Academic)

Full year Grade 10 5 credits

This course involves a full-year’s integrated study of novels, short stories, drama, and poetry from American Literature. This literature will supply the foundation for creative and analytical writing in the course. A range of skills are either introduced or reintroduced in this course, including speaking, research, and writing structures. Standardized assessment strategies will be emphasized.

COURSES OFFERED TO JUNIORS

ADVANCED PLACEMENT: ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND COMPOSITION

Full Year Grades 11-12 5 credits

This course requires students to read, analyze, and craft rhetorical arguments. Students mostly will read nonfiction ranging from the eighteenth century to today. Furthermore, the Advanced Placement Language and Composition program is designed to improve analytical writing and reading through rigorous study. Students who successfully complete this course will be well prepared to take the Advanced Placement Language and Composition exam in May and better prepared to handle the rigors of college-level reading and writing.

Special Note: This is an advanced course. All students must meet the criteria for placement in honors English, including scores on reading and writing assessments, marking period grade averages, and teacher recommendations. Parental approval is also required. In addition, students who fail to meet reasonable standards of performance (70% grade or above prior to AP weighting) during any marking period will be immediately entered into an AP support program that may include mandatory extra help attendance and/or enrollment into AP Support homeroom. Students who take this class will sign an agreement stating that they fully understand the rigor of this course.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT ENGLISH: LITERATURE AND COMPOSITION

Full Year Grades 11-12 5 credits

AP Literature and Composition is a demanding course that requires students to engage in the critical and close reading of literature. Students will not be focusing on what the author is saying; rather, analyzing how the author uses language to produce meaning. Over the course of the school year students will explore a diversity of genres, including poetry, short stories, dramas, novellas, and novels, as well as literary time periods from the sixteenth century Renaissance through the Post-Modern period of today. Though reading is the crux of the curriculum, students will also be responsible for various writing assignments including analytical, expository, and literary criticism essays, as well as the AP free response questions including the Style Analysis Essay, Poetry Analysis Essay, and Novel Response. All AP Literature students are also required to complete the senior research project. Students must be familiar with the conventions of Standard English in order to be successful writers. The class is student-centered and based on the assigned readings and core texts. Students must be prepared. Complete all readings on time and with care, as well as participate in the literature-based class discussions. Students in AP will learn to think independently and challenge the ideas of their peers in a respectful manner. This is an accelerated course and should be taken by students who want to gain college credit by taking the Advanced Placement examination in May.

ENGLISH 3 (Honors)

Full Year Grade 11 5 credits

This course covers a full year’s study of various types of literature (novels, plays, poetry, essays) with special attention paid to British and Post-Colonial literary texts. It is an accelerated course, and writing will be based on the literature read. General composition instruction and vocabulary study are included. Research, vocabulary acquisition, and writing skills are emphasized.

Special Note: This is an honors course and requires the recommendation of the tenth grade English teacher and parental approval. A writing portfolio may be required before placement is finalized. Since this is an honors course, grades are weighted.

ENGLISH 3

Full Year Grade 11 5 credits

This course involves a full-year’s integrated study of British Literature, language, and composition. Reading will be drawn from British and Post-Colonial Literature. Analytical and creative writing will be generated by the readings. A range of skills are either introduced or reintroduced in this course, including speaking, research, and writing structures. SAT verbal skills and other standardized assessment strategies will be covered in this course.

MYTHOLOGY & COMPOSITION

Full Year Grades 11-12 5 credits

In Mythology and Composition, students will study the mythology of various cultures and connect their own cultures and experiences with these mythologies through projects, literature, creative and analytical writing. As they study mythology, students will develop and hone their composition skills in preparation for their college work. Students will analyze and respond to the literature and create their own texts. This is a full-year, junior course for which students get one year of English credit.

Special Note: This course can not be taken concurrently with another English course without departmental approval.

COURSES OFFERED TO SENIORS

ADVANCED PLACEMENT: LANGUAGE AND COMPOSITION

Full Year Grades 11-12 5 credits

This course will cover segments of British Literature as well as a wide range of nonfiction ranging from the eighteenth century to today. Incorporated into this accelerated course will be an Advanced Placement Language and Composition program which is designed to improve analytical writing and reading through rigorous study. Students who successfully complete this course will be well prepared to take the Advanced Placement Language and Composition exam in May and better prepared to handle the rigors of college-level reading and writing.

Special Note: This is an advanced course and is limited to juniors who have taken English 2 Honors and seniors who have taken English 3 Honors or AP Literature and Composition. All students must be recommended by their English teachers. Parental approval is also required. A writing portfolio and/or a skills assessment may be required before placement is finalized. In addition, students who fail to meet reasonable standards of performance (70% grade or above prior to AP weighting) during any marking period will be immediately entered into an AP support program that may include mandatory extra help attendance and/or enrollment into AP Support homeroom. Students who take this class will sign an agreement stating that they fully understand the rigor of this course.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT ENGLISH: LITERATURE AND COMPOSITION

Full Year Grades 11-12 5 credits

Special Note: This is a college-level course and is limited to juniors who have taken English 2 Honors and seniors who have taken English 3 Honors or AP English Language and Composition. All students must be recommended by their English teachers. Parental approval is also required. A writing portfolio may be required before placement is finalized. Students who take this class will sign an agreement that states that they fully understand the rigor of this course.

COLLEGE WRITING (Honors)

Previously called Expository Writing

Full year Grade 12 5 credits (and optional college credit through Rutgers)

This course is designed to fully immerse students into the expectations and rigor of college writing. Based on College Writing 101 at Rutgers University, which is a required course, students will read, comprehend, analyze, and evaluate non-fiction articles intended for a college audience and make connections between ideas derived from a variety of texts. Through the process of writing multiple drafts of expository essays, students will develop independent theses that respond to the ideas and information in the texts they read. Students will produce clear and coherent writing in which the development, organization, and style are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience. Primary texts for the course will consist of non-fiction academic essays that have been pre-approved by the Rutgers Writing Program. Texts will be provided either by Rutgers or will be available on the web. Supplementary texts may include, but will not necessarily be limited to, required Summer Reading book(s) and supplementary grammar materials. Course content fulfills the English 4 requirement for seniors. Enrollment is based on teacher recommendation, test proficiency, and prior English performance.

Special Note: This course has an optional college credit component in which students can submit their cumulative writing portfolio for Folder Review in the Rutgers Writing Program. Students who pass can purchase college credit from Rutgers.

ENGLISH 4

Full Year Grade 12 5 credits

This course will blend the teaching of literature and composition into a full-year course. Readings for this course will be drawn from a variety of genres including but not limited to Greek and Shakespearean drama, and contemporary world literature.

MYTHOLOGY & COMPOSITION

Full Year Grades 11-12 5 credits

Special Note: This course can not be taken concurrently with another English course without departmental approval.

RACE AND GENDER IN LITERATURE

Full Year Grades 11-12 5 credits

From African Americans, East Asian/South Asian Americans, Native Americans, Latinos, and “white” ethnics, students will understand how cultural texts’ impact on race is incredibly important in an era in which students are constantly bombarded with issues of race and gender in music, television, films, and books. Students in this course will benefit greatly from the opportunity to develop tools to analyze how literature and popular culture both reinforce and resist dominant notions of race, gender, and various other identities. Through novels and various non-fiction readings, students will explore themes such as ethnic and racial stereotypes, ethnicity and gender, assimilation versus cultural heritage/memory, ethnogenesis and translating experiences into a new culture and language, responses to myths about immigration, social class, and the “American Dream.” This is a full-year, senior course for which students get one year of English credit.

Special Note: This course can not be taken concurrently with another English course without departmental approval.

SPECULATION IN LITERATURE

Full Year Grades 11-12 5 credits

Handmaid's Tale author Margaret Atwood defines speculative fiction as a branch of science fiction specifically "about things that could really happen." Speculative fiction often allows writers and readers to wrestle with complex social and psychological issues ranging from genetic engineering to artificial intelligence and personal freedom to forms of government, often in far-reaching and fantastical settings which is highly engaging. This course will help students develop discussion and critical thinking skills as they negotiate complex issues of government, change, alternate identities, fear of the unknown, climate change, imperialism as expressed by well-known literary works. This is a full-year course for which students get one year of English credit.

Special Note: This course can not be taken concurrently with another English course without departmental approval.

INDEPENDENT INQUIRY INTO THE HUMANITIES

Full year Grade 12 5 credits

This is a full-year course that enables students to investigate a specific area of interest in the humanities under the guidance of their teacher as a mentor. At the same time it allows students the opportunity to select an area of interest in literature and explore the elements that define or identify a culture, civilization, or era through its major texts. Although primarily designed to suit the needs of students who have taken AP English Language and Composition as well as AP Literature and Composition, this course would benefit seniors who are self-directed and enjoy the experience of discovery.

English Electives

FILM STUDIES

Full Year Grades 10-12 5 credits

Students will study film as literature. By using comprehension and analysis skills such as making predictions, making inferences and more. Students will read, discuss, and write about great films. Film and video have become prevalent and important media in our culture, and developing a film/video vocabulary will help students to more deeply appreciate film and to have more control of their response to video and film they encounter in the world. Visual learners, future filmmakers, and film lovers will greatly benefit from this course.

Special Note: Students will watch “R” rated movies in this course. Parental permission is required.

ADVANCED FILM STUDIES

Full Year Grades 11-12 5 credits Prerequisite: Film Studies

The class will further explore film history (tracing genres, movements and styles), film theory (covering essential approaches to interpreting films), criticism (ways to critically think and write about movies), the study of filmmaking (a more detailed study of production—including pre and post production) and the actual practice and implementation of the production processes (shooting and editing). In addition to screening a variety of films and scenes, students will also read film commentary and criticism in preparation for viewing and analysis. Students will write critically about films and film criticism. Finally, students will produce their own scenes and ultimately their own film.

CONTEMPORARY POETRY AND PERFORMANCE

Full Year Grades 10-12 5 credits

This course explores the diversity of American voices in the most recent poets and the most current issues in the struggle for equal, accurate, and dignified representation. It examines how gender, race, and psychology impact identity, and demonstrates the power of language to empower peaceful progress towards social change. Students will hear their voices echoed in contemporary writers and performers, analyze the work of contemporary poets, and acquire the techniques and tactics to develop confidence and eloquence in expressing their own voices in written and spoken word by writing and performing original poems. (Special note: These are elective credits in English and do not replace the required courses for credit to meet the high school graduation requirement for English.)

CREATIVE WRITING

Full Year Grades 9-12 5 credits

This course will reinforce students’ ability to write creatively in all genres. During the year, students will design a writing portfolio representing a variety of literary forms, increase their awareness of the publishing process, incorporate the conventions of the performing arts into original scripts, and investigate college programs and career paths related to the creative arts.

THE LITERATURE OF MUSIC

Full Year Grades 10-12 5 credits

This course will explore the poetry of music from early recordings of jazz and blues to today’s YouTube and Bandcamp sensations. The Literature of Music provides students with the opportunity to consider how literature, art, music, and popular culture mix together to help us understand the world around us. Each unit of this class takes a theme and asks students to read, write, watch, and listen to texts that help shed light on it. The goal is for students to gain an appreciation of the poetry and art of music and its importance to our culture and society.

EXPLORING GRAPHIC NOVELS

Half Year Grades 9-12 2.5 credits

This course is a full-year introduction to the rich variety of graphic novels from around the world. Students will read and analyze works in a literary framework while learning about the history, fundamentals, and genres within the graphic novel universe. This course will appeal to visual learners, fans of art and comics, and students who enjoy reading works not typically found in traditional English courses.

JOURNALISM

Full Year Grades 9-12 5 credits

Features. Movie/Music Reviews. Sports. Editorials. Columns. Headlines. Captions. Layout. Elect a course in journalism and learn how to write for newspapers, magazines, radio and television. Conduct interviews, evaluate headlines, analyze political cartoons, and compare the same news story in a variety of print, radio, and television formats. Write, edit, and publish your work in the Chieftain, the school newspaper. Record your news writing on audio and videotape. Elect this course and share in a unique journalistic experience.

JOURNALISM 2: NEWSPAPER PRODUCTION

Full Year Grades 10-12 5 Credits

Prerequisite: Journalism

This course is designed for students interested in being editors working on interviews, news and feature stories; game, novel, music, and film reviews; and sports stories for the Chieftain, the high school newspaper. Researching topics by using local papers and other student newspapers; conducting interviews with teachers, students, and administrators; and contributing ideas to layout and design are just some of the hands-on activities the course will include. An inquiring mind, adventurous spirit, and interest in writing and editing are useful tools for this course.

MEDIA LITERACY

Full Year Grades 11-12 5 credits

On average, the average American experiences over 3000 media messages (ads) a day, and these messages can have a powerful effect on our thoughts, decisions, and actions. This course will try to make sense of it all. In this course, students will explore how organizations use commercials, social media, websites, print ads, billboards, movies, and TV shows to influence behaviors. Students will also create real hands-on campaigns to initiate positive change within our own community. Students who are interested in becoming more informed consumers, citizens, and critical thinkers will benefit greatly from this course.

PUBLIC SPEAKING

Half Year Grades 9-12 2.5 credits

This course covers the communication process and the four levels of communication: self-communication, one-to-one, small group, and one-to-many. Students will be expected to prepare and deliver a variety of oral presentations. Participation in group activities will be required in addition to a final oral presentation. This course should be taken by students who want to develop new sensitivity and skills in communicating with others on individual, social, and career levels.

Special Note: Outside reading and writing for speech preparation will be required.

PUBLISHING A YEARBOOK

Full year Grade 10-12 2.5 credits in English

This course is designed to fully immerse students into the entire process of creating a yearbook. Students will learn the organizational roles and responsibilities in yearbook production, page creation, basic elements of design, writing for a publication, legal issues related to copyright, leadership skills, and how to assess and evaluate the completed publication. Through both hands-on application and simulated experiences students will be involved in all aspects of creating, designing and selling. This course will offer 5 credits as an English elective. Student participation in the after school Yearbook program is not mandatory. (Special note: these are elective credits in English and do not replace the required courses for credit to meet the high school graduation requirement for English.)

SAT: CRITICAL REASONING AND PROBLEM SOLVING

Full Year Grade 10-11 2.5 credits

Prerequisite: Students must have a score from 45-55 on both the Mathematics and English sections of the ninth grade administration of the PSAT.

Students enrolled in this half-year course will have a unique opportunity to improve critical reasoning and problem solving skills in mathematics and literacy to help improve scores on the SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Mathematics sections of the exam. In Language Arts students will practice evidence-based reading, reading comprehension, reasoning and vocabulary. In Mathematics students will focus on problem-solving skills and strategies, content skills and logical reasoning.

SOCIAL STUDIES

Social studies is the integrated study of the social sciences and humanities to promote civic competence. Within the school program, social studies provides coordinated, systematic study drawing upon such disciplines as anthropology, archaeology, economics, geography, history, law, philosophy, political science, psychology, religion, and sociology, as well as appropriate content from the humanities, mathematics, and natural sciences. 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. (National Council for the Social Studies)

At Piscataway High School some Social Studies courses are sequential and have a prerequisite policy. Students must take and pass U.S. History 1 before U.S. History 2. The requirements for graduation include three years of Social Studies: one year of World Cultures and two years of U. S. History. Each student must have 15 credits in Social Studies in order to graduate. (5 credits each in World Cultures, U.S. History 1, and U.S. History 2.) All new ninth grade students take Honors World Cultures.

Social Studies Department Course Offerings

	GRADE
SUBJECT	9	10	11	12	CREDITS
Honors World Cultures	X				5 .0
World Cultures Honors/Justice & Human Rights	X
World Cultures*		X	X	X	5.0
Honors U.S. History 1		X			5.0
U.S. History 1		X			5.0
U. S. 1 Law Honors		X			5.0
Honors U.S. History 2			X	X	5.0
U.S. History 2			X	X	5.0
U.S. History 2 Survey/Economics Honors			X	X	5.0
U.S. History 2 //Law/Mock Trial Honors			X	X	5.0
Advanced Placement: US History**			X	X	5.0
AP United States Government and Politics			X	X	5.0
Advanced Placement World History	X	X	X	X	5.0
The History of Psychology		X	X	X	5.0
Advanced Placement: Psychology		X	X	X	5.0
Advanced Placement African American Studies			X	X	5.0
The African American Experience			X	X	5.0
Sociology +		X	X	X	2.5
Facing History and Ourselves +		X	X	X	2.5

*credit recovery via approved online programs

** 11th Grade – may fulfill US History 2 requirement

+semester course possible companion class for Personal Financial Literacy or Sociology

Pre-Law and Justice Academy courses and sequence on page 17

5.0 Credits -Full Year

HONORS WORLD CULTURES

Full Year Grade 9 (plus approved upperclassmen for transfers and credit recovery) 5 credits

This accelerated course challenges the students to use critical thinking skills to collect, interpret, and synthesize course-related data as they explore the economic, social, and political history of regions around the world. These regions include: Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. Students will be held to a high standard of performance in the completion of assignments, activities, and projects. The skills and activities developed in this class will provide the foundation for the requirements of Advanced Placement courses. This course is for 9th graders in the Freshman Foundation Program only. The Academy section(s) will emphasize law and justice as students move through the Honors World Cultures course.

World Cultures Honors/Justice & Human Rights

Full Year Grade 9 (plus approved upperclassmen for transfers and credit recovery) 5 credits

This new course is designed to meet the state requirement for World History and teach students critical thinking skills in conjunction with the World Program for Human Rights Education by the United Nations. Human rights education promotes values, beliefs and attitudes that encourage all individuals to uphold their own rights and those of others. Students who take this course will be prepared for opportunities to take AP social studies classes as well as Law and Justice related History courses

WORLD CULTURES

Credit Recovery Grade 10, 11, 12 (5 credits)

World Cultures credits are given to students who successfully complete an approved credit recovery course online via Edmentum. See counselor for details and cost.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT WORLD HISTORY

Full Year Grades 9-12 (5 credits)

Prerequisite: Advanced Placement World Cultures available only to select students & approval by Department Chair

Advanced Placement World History enables students to develop understanding of the evolution of global processes and contacts, in interaction with different types of human societies. This understanding is advanced through a combination of selective factual knowledge and appropriate analytical. The course highlights the nature of changes in international frameworks and their causes and consequences, as well as comparisons among major societies. It emphasizes relevant factual knowledge used in conjunction with leading interpretive issues and types of historical evidence. The structure of the course involves lectures, class discussions, plus in-depth readings of interpretative and historiographical materials.

Special Note: Admission is limited to a select group of college ready incoming freshman having met the rigorous selection criteria along with a written recommendations of a previous Social Studies teacher and by approval of the department chair. Designated criteria include standardized test results, grades and a writing sample before placement is finalized. *Summer Assignment is required

HONORS U.S. HISTORY 1

Full year Grade 10 (5 credits)

Honors United States History 1 is a 5-credit, full-year course designed to fulfill five credits of the United States History 1 graduation requirement. This accelerated Honors History course will provide Piscataway High School students with an in-depth study of United States History from early colonial times through the turn of the twentieth century. By taking this course, students will understand the various cultural, economic, geographic, intellectual, political, psychological, and social factors that contributed to the development of the United States. Students will interpret historical events, empathize and sympathize with the issues raised in each unit, and research major events that occurred in each unit. Honors U.S. 1 is recommended for students willing to do a considerable amount of challenging readings and activities as well as independent research that will illuminate varying historical perspectives. This course is aligned with the AP U.S. History curriculum to prepare students with the content and skills to succeed in advanced placement courses in social studies.

Special Note: Admission is limited to those students having written recommendation of a previous Social Studies teacher and by approval of the Department Chair. Designated criteria including a writing sample is required before placement is finalized.

U.S. HISTORY 1

Full year Grade 10 (5 credits)

United States History 1 is a 5-credit course designed to fulfill five credits of the United States History 1 graduation requirement for the state of New Jersey. The course will engage students in the study of United States History from early colonial times through the turn of the twentieth century. Students will explore U. S. History using a variety of skills and activities that will prepare them for the challenges of today’s world and workplace.

U.S. HISTORY 1 SURVEY/LAW IN AMERICA HONORS

Full Year Grade 10 (5 Credits)

This full year honors course will provide students with a general background in American history from the Age of Exploration to 1900. Major themes and personalities will be examined in a general fashion in order to acquaint the student with the important elements of the American past. At the same time students will be prepared for additional in depth study of the accompanying Law in America course.

The scope of this course is to enlighten students in multiple areas of Civil Law (law related to the private rights of individuals, groups or businesses). This course covers a large variety of topics from small claims court (otherwise known as “The People’s Court”) to large lawsuits.

This course offers young adults a knowledge base in their rights and responsibilities as individuals. It can help in making important life decisions such as making purchases (understanding warranties, etc.), obtaining automobile insurance, hiring attorneys, etc. During this course students will participate in group discussions, mock trials, and a variety of other creative and thought-provoking activities.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT U.S. HISTORY (APUSH)

Full year Grades 11-12 ( 5 credits)

Prerequisite: U.S. History 1 Honors – May be used to fulfill U.S. History 2 requirement

Advanced Placement U.S. History is a 5-credit, full-year course fulfilling the U.S. 2 graduation requirement. Students develop and use the same skills and methods employed by historians: analyzing primary and secondary sources; developing historical arguments; making historical connections; and utilizing reasoning about comparison, causation, and continuity and change. The course also provides eight themes that students explore throughout the course in order to make connections among historical developments in different times and places: American and national identity; work, exchange, and technology; geography and the environment; migration and settlement; politics and power; America in the world; American and regional culture; and social structures. Students will be preparing to take the national APUSH test in May.

Special Note: Admission is limited to those students having written recommendations of a previous Social Studies teacher and by approval of the department chair. Designated criteria including a writing sample is required before placement is finalized. *Summer Assignment is required

HONORS U.S. HISTORY 2

Full year Grades 11-12 (5 credits)

Prerequisite: U.S. History 1

This accelerated course continues to follow the development of the United States in the Twentieth century. Areas of study will include but is not limited to Progressivism, Industrialization and economic growth, Immigration, Imperialism, The Great Depression, World War II, the Cold War politics, Kennedy and the New Frontier, Johnson and the Great Society, the upheaval of the 1960s along with the Nixon, Carter, Reagan, Bush, and Clinton years and beyond. In addition, world events/issues that have shaped American policy at home and abroad will be studied.

U.S. HISTORY 2

Full Year Grades 11-12 (5 credits)

Prerequisite: U.S. History 1

United States History 2 is a 5-credit, full-year course designed to fulfill five credits of the United States History 2 graduation requirement for the state of New Jersey. This course will engage students in the study of United States History from the early 1900s through the turn of the twenty-first century. Students will explore historic themes such as Immigration, Urbanization, Foreign policy, Civil rights and social change, the role of technology in the economy, among others. Students will demonstrate their understanding of the past and present using a variety of skills and activities that will prepare them for the challenges of today’s world and workplace.

U.S. HISTORY 2 SURVEY/ECONOMICS

Full Year Grades 11-12 (5 credits)

Prerequisite: U.S. History 1

This course is designed to continue and complete the study of U.S. History which was started in U.S. History 1. Students will be exposed to the many and varied aspects of twentieth century United States history with emphasis placed on the overall concepts and trends of the period. At the same time students will be prepared for additional in-depth study of the accompanying Economics course.

This is an introductory course designed for all students who are interested in the theoretical, historical, and practical basis of economics. It will provide a sound background for further studies and/or practical or personal business use. Major areas of study include: Monetary Systems, Supply and Distribution, Taxation, Credit Systems, Investments, Capitalization, Economic Classes, International Trade, Scams and Frauds, and the Dynamics of a Changing Global Economy.

U.S. HISTORY 2 SURVEY/LAW AND MOCK TRIAL HONORS

Full Year Grades 11-12 (5 credits)

Prerequisite: U.S. History 1

This honors course is designed to continue and complete the study of U.S. History which was started in U.S. History 1. Students will be exposed to the many and varied aspects of twentieth century United States history with emphasis placed on the overall concepts and trends of the period. At the same time students will be prepared for additional in-depth study of the accompanying Law and Mock Trial course. This course is designed to provide students in grades 11 and 12 with an in-depth understanding and unique perspective of the criminal justice system, while encouraging active participation in all areas of the course. Particular focus will be placed upon the component elements of the criminal justice system including the role and function of the police, courts, and corrections. Procedural rights of individuals will be discussed as they relate to the individual and society in general. Additionally, elements of a crime, as well as crime categories and defenses to crime, will also be discussed and analyzed. Professionals in the field of law and related law enforcement careers will be utilized as speakers when applicable and available. Special attention will be placed upon the pre-trial and trial stages of the criminal justice process, affording students an opportunity to engage in related role-playing activities, while preparing for voluntary participation in the New Jersey Bar Association sponsored Mock Trial Competition.

SOCIAL STUDIES ELECTIVES

The following courses DO NOT fulfill the U.S. 1 or the U.S. 2 graduation requirements. No Social Studies electives will be offered unless there are a sufficient number of students requesting the course.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT and POLITICS

Full Year Grades 11-12 (5 credits)

Prerequisite: U.S. History 1

Advanced Placement United States Government and Politics introduces students to key political ideas, institutions, policies, interactions, roles, and behaviors that characterize the political culture of the United States. The course examines politically significant concepts and themes, through which students learn to apply disciplinary reasoning, assess causes and consequences of political events, and interpret data to develop evidence-based arguments. Students will be preparing to take the national Advanced Placement History test in May.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT PSYCHOLOGY

Full Year Grades 10-12 (5 credits)

Advanced Placement Psychology is a continuation of the systematic and scientific study of the behavior and mental processes of human beings and other animals. Students will be exposed to the psychological facts, principals, and phenomena associated with the major sub fields within psychology. The course will be guided by the AP Psychology syllabus and will stress critical thinking, reading, and writing within the context of scientific methodology and questioning. The course is designed to help students successfully complete the Advanced Placement Psychology Exam.

Note: *Summer Assignment is required

Note: This course is open to all Sophomore, Junior and Senior students who meet the requirements set by the Social Studies Department in conjunction with a teacher recommendation.

THE HISTORY OF PSYCHOLOGY

Full Year Grades 10-12 (5 credits)

Psychology is the study of the individual behavior and personality of people. Content areas are frustration, relationships, motivation, child and adolescent development, as well as many other areas. The main focus of the course will be the analysis and application of relevant psychological concepts.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT AFRICAN AMERICAN STUDIES

Full year Grades 11-12 ( 5 credits)

AP African American Studies is an interdisciplinary course that examines the diversity of African American experiences through direct encounters with authentic and varied sources. Students explore key topics that extend from early African kingdoms to the ongoing challenges and achievements of the contemporary moment. Given the interdisciplinary character of African American studies, students in the course will develop skills across multiple fields, with an emphasis on developing historical, literary, visual, and data analysis skills. This course foregrounds a study of the diversity of Black communities in the United States within the broader context of Africa and the African diaspora. AP African American Studies is designed to be the equivalent of an introductory college or university course in African American Studies and related courses, including Africana Studies, African Diaspora Studies, and Black Studies.

THE AFRICAN-AMERICAN EXPERIENCE

Full Year Grades 11-12 ( 5 credits)

The purpose of the course is to enhance students' comprehension of the political, social, economic, and cultural components that compose the African American Experience. This course utilizes the humanities, such as literature and art, to inform and engage students in extensive dialogue, discussion, and study on the contemporary, historical, and global impact of the African American Experience. It will take the unique approach of allowing the many voices and personal accounts of the African American community to drive the course, while anchoring the discourse, awareness, and understanding of these accounts in the research and study of the historical events in which these stories of study are rooted. The course's ultimate objective is to help students comprehend the world around them by using their critical thinking abilities to develop their own conclusions based on the offered sources. With this context, it is intended that students will be better able to comprehend their roles and responsibilities in advancing knowledge, equity, empowerment, and inclusion as "citizens of the world" in this culturally diverse mosaic, all while acquiring the skills necessary to become involved citizens pushing toward an equitable democracy.

SOCIOLOGY

Half Year Grades 10-12 ( 2.5 credits)

Sociology is a social science that strives to understand society through an in-depth study of patterns of human behavior. The course will cover topics such as research design, culture, gender, deviance, crime, the media, communication, family, socialization, status, relationships, the state and a variety of other associated areas. Group associations and the impact they have on behavior are the main focus of the course. Emphasis will be placed on project-based assessment and learning, class activities to simulate course concepts including in-depth study of current social issues related to the course material.

FACING HISTORY and OURSELVES

Half Year Grades 10-12 ( 2.5 credits)

Facing History and Ourselves traces the history of discrimination, prejudice, and their escalation into violence and genocide worldwide in the twentieth century. Using the Holocaust as our primary case study, the course considers the role of perpetrators, victims, bystanders, as well as rescuers and resistors as it looks at the role that individuals play in history. Genocide in Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas is examined, as are other examples of ethnic cleansing, religious and racial hatreds, and violations of human rights through present-day events.

MATHEMATICS

Mathematics Department Course Offerings

	GRADE				MATH
SUBJECT	9	10	11	12	CREDITS
Algebra 1	X				5.0
Honors Geometry	X				5.0
Geometry	X	X			5.0
Essentials of Geometry		X			5.0
Honors Algebra 2	X	X			5.0
Algebra 2		X	X		5.0
Essentials of Algebra 2			X	X	5.0
Honors Precalculus		X	X		5.0
Precalculus*			X	X	5.0
Topics in Precalculus				X	5.0
Discrete Mathematics			X	X	5.0
Applied Statistics			X	X	5.0
College Algebra*				X	5.0
Honors Calculus				X	5.0
Advanced Placement Precalculus				X	5.0
Advanced Placement Calculus AB			X	X	5.0
Advanced Placement Calculus BC				X	10.0
Advanced Placement Statistics			X	X	5.0

Mathematics Department (Non-Math Credits)

	GRADE				GENERAL
SUBJECT	9	10	11	12	CREDITS
Algebra 1 Lab	X				5.0
Algebra 2 Lab			X	X	5.0
Geometry Lab		X	X		5.0
SAT: Critical Reasoning and Problem Solving		X	X		2.5
Introduction to Computer Science**	X	X	X	X	5.0
JCAIML			X	X	5.0
Advanced Placement Computer Science A		X	X	X	5.0
Advanced Placement Computer Science Principles		X	X	X	5.0

* Middlesex College High School Scholars Course (dual enrollment)

**May be used to satisfy the 21st Life & Career graduation requirement

2.5 Credits - Semester Course

5.0 Credits -Full Year Course

Piscataway High School

Common Mathematics Course Sequences

The sequences below do not represent all possible course options available at each level.

*Students are encouraged to move to more challenging sequences when appropriate.

Accelerated Program

Core Program

Support Program

ALGEBRA 1 LAB

Full year Grade 9 5.0 Credits

This course is designed to provide additional individualized support to students as they take Algebra 1. Emphasis for Algebra 1 is on understanding and applying the New Jersey Student Learning Standards for Mathematics to help students to succeed.

Credit will be given for this course; however the credit will not count towards the 15 credits of mathematics required for graduation.

GEOMETRY LAB

Full year Grade 10 & 11 5.0 Credits

This course is designed to provide additional individualized support to students as they take Algebra 1. Emphasis for Geometry is on understanding and applying the New Jersey Student Learning Standards for Mathematics to help students to succeed.

Credit will be given for this course; however the credit will not count towards the 15 credits of mathematics required for graduation.

ALGEBRA 2 LAB

Full year Grade 11 & 12 5.0 Credits

This course is designed to provide additional individualized support to students as they take Algebra 1. Emphasis for Algebra 2 is on understanding and applying the New Jersey Student Learning Standards for Mathematics to help students to succeed.

Credit will be given for this course; however the credit will not count towards the 15 credits of mathematics required for graduation.

ALGEBRA 1

Full year Grade 9 5.0 Credits

This course is designed as the first course in a traditional program for all students who are required to take three or more years of college preparatory mathematics. Initially, concepts mastered in the previous math course are expanded. In addition, this course covers solving and graphing equations and inequalities, solving word problems, graphing on a coordinate plane, solving simultaneous equations, properties of exponents, operations with polynomial expressions, working with quadratic functions, and data analysis.

Students in this class may also be assigned to an Algebra 1 Lab class based on performance in 8th grade mathematics.

HONORS GEOMETRY

Full year Grade 9 5.0 Credits

Prerequisite: Placement from 8th grade Honors Algebra 1 or 8th grade Algebra 1 with teacher recommendation

This course is for mathematically-oriented students who desire an extensive and comprehensive treatment of the topics of geometry. This course, along with Honors Algebra 2, is designed for students who plan to take the maximum units of mathematics in high school.

Because this is an honors course the grades are weighted for GPA purposes.

Students selecting Honors Geometry must check the district web site in June to obtain a summer preview assignment, which has criteria for the beginning of the course in September.

GEOMETRY

Full year Grades 9-10 5.0 Credits

Prerequisite: Algebra 1

Geometry, along with Algebra 1 and Algebra 2, serves as the starting point for further work in mathematics. The course covers concepts such as deductive reasoning, transformations, isometry, congruence, similarity, polygons and circles, area and volume, constructions, and applications to plane and solid figures.

Geometry is designed for students who successfully completed Algebra 1 in Grade 8 or 9. In addition to Geometric topics, the course includes an ongoing review of Algebra 1 topics in order to prepare students adequately for Algebra 2. Students who perform exceptionally well in Geometry earn the option to take a placement exam for Honors Algebra 2.

ESSENTIALS OF GEOMETRY

Full year Grade 10 5.0 Credits

Prerequisite: Algebra 1

This course is designed as a second course in a college preparatory program for those students who previously had difficulty in mathematics. Basic concepts from Geometry will be covered including deductive reasoning, transformations, isometry, congruence, similarity, polygons and circles, area and volume, constructions, and applications to plane and solid figures.

HONORS ALGEBRA 2

Full year Grade 10 5.0 Credits

Prerequisite: Placement from Honors Geometry or Geometry with successful placement exam and teacher recommendation.

This course is for mathematically oriented students who desire an extensive and comprehensive treatment of Algebra 2 topics. This course is designed for students who plan to take the maximum units of mathematics in high school.

Because this is an honors course the grades are weighted for GPA purposes.

Students selecting Honors Algebra 2 must check the district web site in June to obtain a summer preview assignment, which has criteria for the beginning of the course in September.

ALGEBRA 2

Full Year Grades 10-11 5.0 Credits

Prerequisite: Geometry

This course completes a traditional three-year college preparatory sequence. It begins with a brief review of concepts learned in Algebra 1 and includes more advanced topics such as quadratic equations and functions, polynomial equations and functions, properties of exponents, logarithms, verbal problems, and arithmetic and geometric sequences and series. The course is for potential college candidates who wish to benefit from the study of a rigorous secondary mathematics course.

ESSENTIALS OF ALGEBRA 2

Full Year Grades 11 -12 5.0 Credits

Prerequisite: Geometry or Essentials of Geometry

Essentials of Algebra 2 is a college preparatory course that will use sophisticated mathematics to give you the tools to apply mathematics to the world around you. The course employs algebra, probability and statistics, precalculus, and geometry to solve financial problems that occur in everyday life. Real-world problems in investing, credit, banking, auto insurance, mortgages, employment, income taxes, budgeting and planning for retirement are solved by applying the relevant mathematics. Field projects, spreadsheets, and graphing calculators are key components for this course

Students in this class may also be assigned to an Algebra 2 Lab class based on past performance in Geometry and Algebra 1.

NOTE: This course does not satisfy the prerequisite requirement for either Precalculus or Honors Precalculus

HONORS PRECALCULUS

Full Year Grade 10-11 5.0 credits

Prerequisite: Honors Algebra 2 or Algebra 2 with teacher recommendation

This course is a must for the serious math student and a prerequisite for the study of calculus. Topics covered include trigonometric functions and identities, graph analysis of higher degree and trigonometric functions, and polar equations. This course provides a more detailed and rigorous treatment of the subject than Precalculus. It also provides a thorough review of Algebra topics and a preview of first year Calculus topics. This course is a prerequisite for students who plan to take either Advanced Placement Calculus course. Because this is an honors course, the grades are weighted for GPA calculation.

Students selecting Honors Precalculus must check the district web site in June to obtain a summer preview assignment, which has criteria for the beginning of the course in September.

PRECALCULUS

Full Year Grades 11-12 5.0 credits

Prerequisite: Honors Algebra 2 or Algebra 2 with teacher recommendation

This course is offered in cooperation with Middlesex College. Four credits of Precalculus at Middlesex College may be earned simultaneously with 5 credits earned at Piscataway High School. These credits may be transferable to other institutions.

The course emphasizes those topics that best prepare a student for a first course in calculus. The areas of study include algebraic and trigonometric functions and their graphs. Emphasis is placed on polynomials, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions. The course also includes a thorough review of Algebra topics and a preview of first year Calculus topics. Graphing calculator use is heavily integrated into the course to help students visualize solutions.

To receive credit from Middlesex County College, students are required to maintain at least a 70 average for the course and must pay a one-time registration fee to the college.

NOTE: This course does not satisfy the prerequisite requirement for AP Calculus BC.

TOPICS IN PRECALCULUS

Full Year Grade 12 5.0 credits

Prerequisite: Algebra 2 or Essentials of Algebra 2

This course is designed as a review of Algebra 1, Geometry, and Algebra 2. It also offers a preview of college-level Calculus. This course introduces trigonometry, but not in the depth that it is discussed in other courses offered at Piscataway High School. The primary purpose is to review previously-learned skills and introduce pre-calculus material to students.

NOTE: This course does not satisfy the prerequisite requirement for a course in calculus.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT PRECALCULUS

Full Year Grade 12 5.0 credits

Prerequisite: Algebra 2 or Honors Algebra 2

This course consists of a full high school academic year of work and is comparable to one semester of college-level precalculus. AP Precalculus centers on functions modeling dynamic phenomena. This research-based exploration of functions is designed to better prepare students for college-level calculus and provide grounding for other mathematics and science courses. In this course, students study a broad spectrum of function types that are foundational for careers in mathematics, physics, biology, health science, social science, and data science.

NOTE: This course is for seniors only. 10th or 11th grade students preparing for AP Calculus or Honors Calculus will take Honors Precalculus or academic Precalculus.

COLLEGE ALGEBRA

Full Year Grade 12 5.0 credits

Prerequisite: Algebra 2 or Essentials of Algebra 2 This course is offered in cooperation with Middlesex College. Three credits of College Algebra at Middlesex College may be earned simultaneously with 5 credits earned at Piscataway High School. These credits may be transferable to other institutions.

This course is designed as a focused, full-year college preparatory course for students who have been challenged by high school mathematics. The content includes a rigorous extension of core topics from throughout high school mathematics with a focus on writing, problem solving, and modeling. This course will also help prepare students for standardized tests including the Accuplacer exam and the SAT.

To receive credit from Middlesex College, students are required to maintain at least a 70 average for the course and must pay a one-time registration fee to the college.

DISCRETE MATHEMATICS

Full Year Grades 11-12 5.0 Credits

Prerequisite: Algebra 2 or Essentials of Algebra 2 with permission of the instructor

This course allows students to gain an appreciation of the subtlety and range of mathematics. The topics are chosen with the purpose of introducing the student to a different view of mathematics from the one presented in a traditional curriculum. The course is focused on building a direct and immediate connection between the mathematics of our world and the concrete, real-life problems in which mathematics is realized.

This course offers students an opportunity to develop reasoning power and problem-solving skills to prepare them for future careers that will require new and more sophisticated analytical and technical tools. Topics include voting, fair division, apportionment, circuits, networks, scheduling, population growth, spiral growth in nature, statistics, probability, and fractal geometry.

APPLIED STATISTICS

Full Year Grades 11-12 5.0 Credits

Prerequisite: Algebra 2 or Essentials of Algebra 2 with permission of the instructor

This course introduces statistics topics through problem-based modules in a variety of content areas. Students will explore models of quantitative analysis in the natural sciences, the social sciences, business, and other disciplines, and will learn how and when statistical frameworks can be applied to data to draw conclusions and make predictions.

Applied Statistics is a modeling course and does not prepare students to take the AP Exam in Statistics. Students who take Applied Statistics are encouraged to continue their study of statistics by taking the Advanced Placement Statistics course.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT STATISTICS

Full Year Grades 10-12 5.0 credits

Prerequisite: Honors Algebra 2 or a course following Algebra 2 with teacher recommendation

This course is a task-oriented continuation of topics in Probability and Statistics.. Statistical skills will be expanded and applied to real life situations as required on the Advanced Placement test. Students are encouraged, but are not required, to take the AP test for possible college credit.

Students selecting AP Statistics must check the district web site in June to obtain a summer preview assignment, which has criteria for the beginning of the course in September.

Because this is an Advanced Placement course the grades are weighted for GPA calculation.

HONORS CALCULUS

Full Year Grade 12 5.0 Credits

Prerequisite: Honors Precalculus or Precalculus

This course is the last portion of an accelerated mathematics program for students who do not take an Advanced Placement Calculus course. In addition to mastering precalculus skills, and working with college placement practice tests, this course is designed to be an introduction to calculus material for students who will be taking a calculus course in college and does not serve as a complete background for a student who intends to take the Advanced Placement exam. A TI-84 graphing calculator is used throughout the course.

Because this is an honors course the grades are weighted for GPA calculation.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT CALCULUS AB

Full Year Grades 11- 12 5.0 Credits

Prerequisites: Honors Precalculus or Precalculus

This course consists of a full high school academic year of work and is comparable to one semester of college-level calculus. It is designed for students who have outstanding skills and interests in the field of mathematics, and it is expected that students who take an AP course in calculus will want to gain college credit by taking the College Board Advanced Placement examination in May.

Practical and theoretical approaches are presented at an accelerated pace, thereby requiring a serious commitment on the student’s part. Students who wish to study calculus but feel that they cannot devote the time and intensity necessary for this college level course should elect to take Honors Calculus. A TI-89 graphing calculator is used throughout the course.

Students selecting AP Calculus AB must check the district web site in June to obtain a summer preview assignment, which has criteria for the beginning of the course in September.

Because this is an Advanced Placement course the grades are weighted for GPA calculation.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT CALCULUS BC

Full Year Grade 12 10.0 credits

Prerequisites: Honors Precalculus

This course consists of a full high school academic year of work and is comparable to two semesters of college-level calculus. It is designed for students who have outstanding skills and interests in the field of mathematics, and it is expected that students who take an AP course in calculus will want to gain college credit by taking the College Board Advanced Placement examination in May.

Practical and theoretical approaches are presented at an accelerated pace, thereby requiring a serious commitment on the student’s part. Students who wish to study calculus but feel that they cannot devote the time and intensity necessary for this college level course should elect to take Honors Calculus or AP Calculus AB. A TI-89 graphing calculator is used throughout the course.

Students selecting AP Calculus BC must check the district web site in June to obtain a summer preview assignment, which has criteria for the beginning of the course in September.

Because this is an Advanced Placement course the grades are weighted for GPA calculation.

SAT: CRITICAL REASONING AND PROBLEM SOLVING

Semester Grades 10 & 11 2.5 credits

Prerequisite: Students must have completed Geometry.

Students enrolled in this course will have a unique opportunity to improve test taking strategies using critical reasoning and problem solving skills in mathematics and literacy to help improve scores on the SAT. In Language Arts, students will practice evidence-based reading, reading comprehension, reasoning, and vocabulary. In Mathematics, students will focus on problem-solving skills and strategies, content skills, and logical reasoning.

INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER SCIENCE

Full Year Grades 9-12 5.0 Credits

This is an introductory course in computer science that exposes students to the Java programming language. It covers the fundamentals of programming and computer science and supports logical thinking and problem solving skills. Upon completion of this course students will be able to (1) create animations using Alice; (2) write basic programs in Java; (3) use Eclipse IDE and run Java programs. This course serves as a prerequisite to Advanced Placement Computer Science A and is highly recommended for students who plan to select Computer Science, Engineering, Finance, or Genetics as their major in college.

NOTE: Credit will be given for this course as a Practical Arts elective; however, the credit will not count towards the 15 credits of mathematics required for graduation.

HONORS JAVA CERTIFICATION AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN MACHINE LEARNING (JCAIML)

Full Year Grades 11-12 5.0 Credits *honors class*

Prerequisite: Advanced Placement Computer Science A or by permission of the instructor

JCAIML is a two semester advanced computer science course. During the first semester of the course, the students are introduced to post APCS-A Java concepts: Advance Inheritance, File IO, Exception handling, and Data Structures. This part of the course will prepare students for the Oracle Certified Associate (OCA), Java SE 8 Programmer Certification. After completing the first semester, students will appear for the OCA certification exam, and on passing this exam will receive Java – OCA certification.

Second semester of this course of study builds on the skills gained by students in Java Foundations and Java Programming. Students are introduced to Machine Learning concepts within Artificial Intelligence and will learn terminology, syntax, and the steps required to create a Machine Learning solution in Java using hands-on, engaging activities.

NOTE: Credit will be given for this course; however, the credit will not count towards the 15 credits of mathematics required for graduation.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT COMPUTER SCIENCE A

Full Year Grades 10-12 5.0 Credits

Prerequisite: Introduction to Computer Science or permission of the instructor.

This course emphasizes proper programming methodology, algorithmic development, data structures, and object-oriented programming. Students will be expected to use their knowledge of proper programming techniques when solving problems in this course. This course uses the JAVA programming language. Upon completion, students will be able to take the College Board AP Computer Science A exam.

Because this is an Advanced Placement course the grades are weighted for GPA purposes.

NOTE: Credit will be given for this course; however, the credit will not count towards the 15 credits of mathematics required for graduation.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT COMPUTER SCIENCE PRINCIPLES

Full Year Grades 10-12 5.0 Credits

Prerequisite: Introduction to Computer Science with recommendation; Geometry or Honors Geometry

This course introduces students to the central ideas of computer science, instilling the ideas and practices of computational thinking and inviting students to understand how computing changes the world. The rigorous course promotes deep learning of computational content, develops computational thinking skills, and engages students in the creative aspects of the field. Upon completion, students will be able to take the College Board AP Computer Science Principles exam and must complete two performance tasks throughout the course.

Students selecting AP Computer Science Principles must check the district web site in June to obtain a summer preview assignment, which is due on the first day of school in September.

Because this is an Advanced Placement course the grades are weighted for GPA purposes.

NOTE: Credit will be given for this course; however, the credit will not count towards the 15 credits of mathematics required for graduation.

SCIENCE

Science Department Core Course Offerings

The Science Department at Piscataway High School is dedicated to providing students with learning opportunities that are designed to build scientific literacy by weaving together Disciplinary Core Ideas, Cross Cutting Concepts and Science and Engineering Practices. All of our science classes aim to provide meaningful experiences that spark students’ curiosity for science and develop students’ lifelong skills in problem-solving and critical thinking.

	GRADE					SCIENCE CREDITS
SUBJECT	9	10		11	12	SCIENCE CREDITS
SCIENCE CORE CLASSES
Conceptual Biology	X					5.0
Biology (Academic)	X					5.0
Honors Biology	X					5.0
Physical Sciences			X			5.0
Chemistry in the Community			X	X		5.0
Chemistry (Academic)			X			5.0
Honors Chemistry			X			5.0
Active Physics				X		5.0
Physics (Academic)				X		5.0
Honors Physics				X		5.0
AP Physics 1				X	X	5.0

5.0 Credits -Full Year

Common Science Course Sequence Pathway

The sequence below does not represent all possible course options available at each level.

Science-oriented, college prep students should aim for Honors level courses as feasible.

Non-science, college prep students should aim for Academic level courses as feasible.

Students can be encouraged to move to more challenging courses when appropriate.

Students can be guided to courses offering more support when appropriate.

Science Department Course Descriptions

SCIENCE CORE CLASSES

CONCEPTUAL BIOLOGY, BIOLOGY (Academic), HONORS BIOLOGY

Full Year Grade 9 5 credits

Prerequisite: Placement based upon 8th grade rubric and teacher recommendation

Students will study the main themes of life sciences to make sense of the complexity, diversity and interconnectedness of life on earth. Classroom discussions, projects, and labs emphasize molecular biology, living organisms, cell structure and function, the inheritance of traits, gene and chromosome changes, evidence of evolution, mechanisms of change, and ecological concepts. Emphasis is placed on the following Science and Engineering Practices: Asking Questions and Defining Problems, Using Models, Constructing Explanations, and Communicating Scientific Information.

PHYSICAL SCIENCES

Full Year Grade 10 5 credits

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology. Recommendation of previous science teacher is needed.

This physical science course is an integration of chemistry and physics to prepare students for successful completion of a full year of one or both of the physical sciences courses (chemistry and/or physics). The following Science and Engineering Practices are stressed: Developing and Using Models, Planning and Carrying Out Investigations, Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking, and Communicating Scientific Information.

CHEMISTRY IN THE COMMUNITY, CHEMISTRY (Academic), HONORS CHEMISTRY

Full Year Grades 10-11 5 credits

Prerequisite: Successful Completion of Biology and Grade Level Math. Recommendation of previous science teacher is needed.

Students study the composition of matter and the changes it undergoes in the formation of new products. Classroom discussions & lectures, projects, and labs emphasize basic principles and laws, modern atomic theories, formula writing, stoichiometric relations, chemical calculations, and properties of the elements and their compounds. The topics range from the purely theoretical to real world applications. Emphasis is placed on the following Science and Engineering Practices: Planning and Carrying Out Investigations, Analyzing and Interpreting Data, Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking, and Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions.

ACTIVE PHYSICS, PHYSICS (Academic), HONORS PHYSICS, AP PHYSICS 1

Full year Grade 11 5 credits

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Chemistry or Physical Science and Grade Level Math. Students should be enrolled in Algebra 2 concurrently. Recommendation of science teacher is needed.

Students will be taught fundamental concepts of motion, mechanics, fluid statics, fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, sound, light, wave motion, electricity, magnetism, and electromagnetic radiation. This Physics course consists of a foundational program that will lead to greater understanding of how mathematical models are used to describe the physical universe. The following Science and Engineering Practices are stressed: Developing and Using Models, Planning and Carrying Out Investigations, Analyzing and Interpreting Data, Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking, and Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions.

Science Department Elective Course Offerings

	GRADE				GENERAL CREDITS
SUBJECT	9	10	11	12	GENERAL CREDITS
AP SCIENCE ELECTIVE CLASSES
Advanced Placement Biology			X	X	7.5
Advanced Placement Chemistry			X	X	7.5
Advanced Placement Environmental Science			X	X	5.0
Advanced Placement Physics 1			X	X	5.0
Advanced Placement Physics C			X	X	7.5
GENERAL SCIENCE ELECTIVE CLASSES
Anatomy & Physiology I for Health Science Careers (H) 5 HS credits, 4 Rutgers Credits*			X	X	5.0
Anatomy & Physiology II for Health Science Careers (H) 5 HS credits, 4 Anatomy + 3 Medical terminology Rutgers Credits*				X	5.0
Astronomy			X	X	2.5
Anatomy of the Human Body			X	X	5.0
Marine Biology	X	X	X	X	2.5
Environmental Science		X	X	X	2.5
Forensics		X	X	X	2.5
Introduction to Organic Chemistry (H)			X	X	2.5
Research in Molecular Biology and Bioinformatics (H)			X	X	5.0
*Students will take Rutgers assessments and upon graduation, earn Rutgers college credits

2.5 Credits - Semester 5.0 Credits - Full Year 7.5 Credits – Full Year, with a Lab

Science Department Course Descriptions

ADVANCED PLACEMENT SCIENCE ELECTIVES

ADVANCED PLACEMENT BIOLOGY

Full Year Grade 10-12 7.5 Credits

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology and Chemistry and Algebra II or Honors Algebra II. Recommendation of previous science teacher is needed.

The rigorous Advanced Placement Biology lab and lecture course consists of an intensive study of evolution, cells, information coding and transfer, the diversity of organisms, homeostatic mechanisms and communication, as well as the interdependence of nature and the processes of science. This course is designed for the highly motivated and capable student who plans to enter a collegiate program developed to train him/her for entrance into any of the fields of applied biology (public health, sanitary science, medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, industrial research and development) or to engage in graduate work in any of the fields of biology. The serious study of this course will enable students to take the advanced placement exam in May. A summer assignment is required and attendance at the summer course is strongly recommended.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT CHEMISTRY

Full Year Grade 11-12 7.5 Credits

Prerequisite: Chemistry, Biology, and Physics (Physics may be taken concurrently), completion of Algebra 2 or Honors Algebra 2; Recommendation of previous science teacher is needed.

This is an advanced course in theoretical and practical chemistry for students who have successfully completed a first year Academic or Honors chemistry course. This is a college-level course that includes a study of kinetics, equilibrium, electro-chemistry, thermodynamics, quantum mechanics, descriptive chemistry, and some organic chemistry. Laboratory investigations are coupled with lecture concepts. In May, students will take the Chemistry Advanced Placement Exam administered by the College Board. A summer assignment is required and attendance at the summer course is strongly recommended.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT PHYSICS 1

Full Year Grade 11-12 5 Credits

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology and Chemistry and completion or concurrent Algebra II or Honors Algebra II. Recommendation of previous science teacher is needed.

Advanced Placement Physics 1 is a demanding college-level, laboratory-based course that can be a first year or second year physics course. It is designed for students who have a high interest in physics. Although students planning on a college major in physical science, engineering, mathematics, or a related field would still have to take a calculus-based physics course (a course equivalent to AP Physics C), AP Physics 1 provides excellent preparation for the above college majors including pre-med programs. Students who complete AP Physics 1 may later choose to take AP Physics C for full credit. This course covers a broad spectrum of topics, including: linear motion, forces, projectile motion, impulse and momentum, work and energy, circular motion and universal gravitation, simple harmonic motion, and torque and rotary motion. AP Physics 1 prepares students to take the Advanced Placement Examination in May. Students must complete a summer assignment given by the teacher.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT PHYSICS C

Full Year Grade 11-12 7.5 Credits

Prerequisite: Physics (academic or honors), Trigonometry, Biology, Chemistry, (AP Biology or AP Chemistry may be taken concurrently.); completion of or currently enrolled in Calculus (AP Calculus BC for AP Physics C). Recommendation of previous science teacher is needed.

This advanced, second year physics program is intended for students who are interested in a career in science, engineering, mathematics and technology and strengthens the background obtained in the first year physics course. This course is taught at an accelerated pace in order to strictly follow the national advanced placement physics curriculum. Upon completion of this course students are expected to take the Physics C advanced placement exams. A summer assignment is required and attendance at the summer course is strongly recommended.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE

Full Year Grade 10-12 5 Credits

Prerequisite: Students must attain a final year-end average of 85 for Academic level or 80 for Honors level of Biology and Chemistry. Algebra I is required, and Algebra II is preferred as a prerequisite. Recommendation of previous science teacher is needed. Students who have completed conceptual level courses are not recommended.

Environmental science is in part a new integration of old disciplines, and in part a new discipline of its own. It is expected that the following topics will be reviewed to varying degrees directly or indirectly: natural ecology, human adaptation, extinction of species, human populations, energy, agriculture, radioactive wastes, air pollution, water pollution, noise, as well as social, legal, and economic aspects.

GENERAL SCIENCE ELECTIVES

NOTE: General credit will be given for these courses; however, the credit will not count towards the 15-18 credits of science required for graduation.

ASTRONOMY

Semester Grades 11-12 2.5 Credits

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology and Chemistry with a minimum grade of 70

This course consists of the study of various celestial objects and their movement. Some topics include: Kepler’s and Newton’s laws; types of telescopes and their use; the sun and moon stars; stellar evolution; galaxies; comets; cosmology; quasars; current events in astronomy and space missions, the various planets and how the formation of the solar system relates to the history of the Earth. For many of the course topics, Piscataway High School's planetarium is used as a teaching tool.

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE

Semester Grade 10-12 2.5 Credits

Prerequisite: Successful completion of one year of Biology with a minimum grade of 70

The goal of this course is to provide students with the social and humanistic aspects of science. Major content areas to be studied include: ecology of natural systems; human adaptation to environmental change; extinction of species; human population growth; energy-resources; pollution; agricultural systems; Earth’s systems; weather and climate; natural disasters; and the social, legal, and economic aspects of environmental degradation.

FORENSICS

Semester Grade 10-12 2.5 Credits

Prerequisite: Successful completion of one year of Biology with a minimum grade of 70

This semester elective focuses on the application of scientific principles and techniques to criminal investigation. Students are introduced to the history of forensic science, the crime scene and the use of the microscope and other investigatory tools. Various types of physical evidence as well as lab tests are evaluated to ascertain their validity in a court of law. Students analyze physical evidence such as hair, fiber, questioned documents, fingerprints, drugs, toxins, blood type, blood spatter and DNA fingerprinting. Students review case studies of real crimes, step into the role of the forensic scientist, learn and apply numerous scientific strategies and skills. This course provides students hands-on opportunities to study this exciting field, thus exposing them to possible careers in criminal justice.

ANATOMY OF THE HUMAN BODY

Full Year Grade 11-12 5 Credits

Prerequisite: Successful completion of one year of Biology and Chemistry with a minimum grade of 70

This exciting elective is a combination lab and lecture course that explores the anatomy and physiology of the human body. The structure of the various human body systems will be studied and the function of each system will be explored. This is an interesting and relevant course where students will have the opportunity to study about themselves. Students considering a career in nursing, medicine, teaching, public health, dentistry, or veterinary medicine will enjoy this course.

MARINE BIOLOGY

Semester Grade 9-12 2.5 Credits

Prerequisite: Successful completion of one year of Biology with a minimum grade of 70

This course will provide an opportunity for these students to explore the biology and ecology of marine systems, and will also allow students to learn more about the fragile interconnectedness of the ocean and its organisms, with an emphasis on current events including extreme weather systems, regulations of the fishing industry, declining marine populations, climate change, and the global effects of the thermocline. Students will also gain important skills in reading scientific literature, synthesizing their understanding of complex scientific issues, and thinking critically to develop potential solution models to global problems.

INTRODUCTION TO ORGANIC CHEMISTRY (HONORS)

Semester Grade 11-12 2.5 Credits

Prerequisite: Students must attain a final year-end average of 85 for Academic level or 80 for Honors level of Biology. Students must attain a final year-end average of 85 for Honors Chemistry.

This is a semester elective course designed for high school students interested in studying chemistry beyond the first year requirement and for students interested in pursuing a college education in either the biological or chemical sciences. It is suggested that this course be taken concurrently with AP Chemistry or AP Biology. Built as an exposure to the study of organic chemistry, this course will focus on carbon and its properties as it impacts the natural and man-made carbon based products. Topics included will be naming organic compounds, organic reactions and analytical laboratory techniques such as synthesis, separation, identification, and quantification of both natural and man-made products. Interdisciplinary connections will be made so that students begin to appreciate the many facets of our world at a molecular level. A summer assignment is required.

RESEARCH IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND BIOINFORMATICS (HONORS)

Full Year Grade 11-12 5 Credits

Prerequisites: Students must attain a final year-end average of 85 for Academic level or 80 for Honors level of Biology and Chemistry.

The goal of this course is to provide students with the tools needed for an academic and professional career using modern biological and laboratory techniques. The course will operate under the simple premise that students learn science by doing science. Students will participate in authentic collegiate level research. As their knowledge of these disciplines increases, students will be able to become more independent in the application of various techniques in order to conduct novel research.

Students have the opportunity to become scientific authors, published in the NCBI database for use by scientists worldwide.

BIOMEDICAL CAREER PATHWAY PROGRAM

**Students must complete an application for enrollment in these courses.**

Upon successful completion of each of the following courses, students will be eligible to take the corresponding Health Science Careers standardized exams to determine college credit. The minimum level of satisfactory performance in the courses is a grade of 73 or better. Students must attain a grade of 70 or better on the standardized exams to earn college credits. Upon graduation, students will earn 4 Rutgers credits for Anatomy and Physiology I for Health Careers, and 7 Rutgers credits for Anatomy and Physiology II for Health Careers. CTSO Expectation: Students will be expected to be active members of HOSA each year they participate in the Rutgers program.

NOTE: General credit will be given for these courses; however, the credit will not count towards the 15-18 credits of science required for graduation.

ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY I FOR HEALTH SCIENCE CAREERS (HONORS)

Full Year Grade 11-12 5 Credits

Prerequisite: Students must attain a final year-end average of 80 for Academic level or 75 for Honors level of Biology and Chemistry. Additionally, students must have a passing grade on each of the science final exams.

Anatomy and Physiology is the study of the structure and function of the human body. This course follows a sequential development of the major body systems in an organized and structured curriculum. The course is designed to give students a selective overview of human anatomical structure and an analysis of human physiological principles. Labs will include slide work, dissection of various animals and studies of the human skeleton. Computer simulated dissection will also be used. Terminology related to anatomy of the human body, functions of health and disease will be included.

ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY II FOR HEALTH SCIENCE CAREERS (HONORS)

Full Year Grade 12 5 Credits

Prerequisite: Students must attain a passing grade in Anatomy & Physiology I for Health Science Careers. Additionally, students must attain a passing grade on Rutgers assessments for Anatomy I to be eligible for Rutgers credits for Anatomy II.

Anatomy and Physiology II continues with the study of sequential development of the major body systems in an organized and structured curriculum. This course will prepare students for all other basic science and clinical courses. Coursework includes the study of Endocrine System, Lymphatic System, Blood and Cardiovascular System, Respiratory System, Digestive System, Urinary System, Water and Electrolyte, Male and Female Reproductive Systems. Labs include slide work, dissection of various animals and studies of the human skeleton. The course will also use computer simulated dissection.

WORLD LANGUAGES

We believe that the study of a world language plays an essential role in the intellectual development and total enrichment of the individual. An effective world languages program recognizes individual differences in learning patterns and abilities, tailoring courses to students with diverse needs and interests. We endeavor to provide a comprehensive, well-articulated and coordinated world language program that not only leads with culture, is standards-based, student centered, encourages proficiency gains and measurable results but is also a rewarding and satisfying experience for each learner. Through language study, students make connections with other content areas, compare the language and culture studied with their own as well as participate in home and global communities. Proficiency drives our instructional practice. Our goal is to learn to use the language, not learn about the language. In our WL classes students work towards meaningful, real-life use of the target language. The World Languages program at Piscataway High School offers students the opportunity to study American Sign Language, French, Italian, Mandarin Chinese or Spanish. We offer Honors as well as AP courses. Learners have the opportunity to participate in various international travels. We have exchange programs with our sister schools in China or Spain as well as opportunities to visit Italy, Quebec and France.

World Language Department Course Offerings

	GRADE
SUBJECT	9	10	11	12	CREDITS
American Sign Language 1	X	X	X	X	5.0
American Sign Language 2	X	X	X	X	5.0
American Sign Language 3	x	x	x	x	5.0
American Sign Language 4	x	x	x	x	5.0
French 1	X	X	X	X	5.0
French 2	X	X	X	X	5.0
French 3	X	X	X	X	5.0
French 4		X	X	X	5.0
Italian 1	X	X	X	X	5.0
Italian 2		X	X	X	5.0
Italian 3			X	X	5.0
Italian 4				X	5.0
Mandarin Chinese 1	X	X	X	X	5.0
Mandarin Chinese 2		X	X	X	5.0
Mandarin Chinese 3		X	X	X	5.0
Mandarin Chinese 4		X	X	X	5.0
Spanish 1	X	X	X	X	5.0
Spanish 2	X	X	X	X	5.0
Spanish 2 – Language and Culture	X	X	X	X	5.0
Spanish 2- Honors	X	X	X	X	5.0
Spanish 3	X	X	X	X	5.0
Spanish 3 - Honors	X	X	X	X	5.0
Spanish 4		X	X	X	5.0
Spanish 4 – Honors (available 2022-23)		X	X	X	5.0
Spanish AP			X	X	5.0
Spanish for Heritage Speakers 1	X	X	X	X	5.0
Spanish for Heritage Speakers 2	X	X	X	X	5.0

5.0 Credits -Full Year

World Languages

Freshmen are placed in World Language based upon grades received in eighth grade, previous language experience, and the recommendation of teachers. Courses are taught sequentially. All courses are five credits and are offered for a full year.

LEVEL 1: American Sign Language, French, Italian Mandarin Chinese or Spanish

This course is designed for students with no background in the language and stresses the development of basic communication skills in listening, speaking, reading and writing. Students learn about the cultures of the language they are studying. The Novice-Mid language learner understands and communicates at the word level and can independently identify and recognize memorized words and phrases that bring meaning to text. Level 1 students understand and communicate at the word level and can use memorized words and phrases independently to: respond to learned questions, ask memorized questions, state needs and preferences, and describe people, places, and things. The Novice-Mid language learner understands and communicates at the word level and can use memorized words and phrases independently to: make lists, state needs and preferences, and describe people, places, and things.

LEVEL 2: American Sign Language, French, Italian Mandarin Chinese or Spanish

This novice-high course further develops communicative language skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing while exploring culture. The Novice-High language learner has progressed from understanding and communicating at the word level to understanding and communicating at the sentence level and can use words, lists, and simple sentences to: identify the main idea and some supporting details when reading, understand the gist and some supporting details of conversations dealing with everyday life, infer the meaning of some unfamiliar words when used in familiar contexts. The Novice-High language learner has progressed from understanding and communicating at the word level to understanding and communicating at the sentence level and can use words, lists, and simple sentences independently to: ask and answer questions related to everyday life, and handle simple transactions related to everyday life:

LEVEL 2: Spanish Honors

This intermediate-low course, conducted almost entirely in the target language, continues the development of listening, speaking, reading, and writing through a variety of communicative activities. This course prepares the student for a future Spanish AP course. The Intermediate-Low language learner understands and communicates at the sentence level and can use simple sentences independently to: identify the main idea and some supporting details when reading, understand the gist and some supporting details of conversations dealing with everyday life, and infer the meaning of some unfamiliar words when used in familiar contexts. The Intermediate-Low language learner understands and communicates at the sentence level and can use simple sentences independently to: ask and answer questions related to everyday life, and handle simple transactions related to everyday life. The Intermediate-Low language learner understands and communicates at the sentence level & can use simple sentences independently to handle simple transactions related to everyday life

LEVEL 2: Spanish-Language and Culture

This course is specifically for students who have a basic background in Spanish but have a gap in studies. There is a focus on strengthening the students' background knowledge. This Novice-Mid/High course further develops communicative language skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing while exploring culture. The Novice-Mid/High language learner has progressed from understanding and communicating at the word level to understanding and communicating at the sentence level and can use words, lists, and simple sentences to: identify the main idea and some supporting details when reading, understand the gist and some supporting details of conversations dealing with everyday life, infer the meaning of some unfamiliar words when used in familiar contexts. The Novice-Mid/High language learner has progressed from understanding and communicating at the word level to understanding and communicating at the sentence level and can use words, lists, and simple sentences independently to: ask and answer questions related to everyday life, and handle simple transactions related to everyday life:

LEVEL 3: American Sign Language, French, Italian Mandarin Chinese or Spanish

This intermediate-low course, conducted almost entirely in the target language, continues the development of listening, speaking, reading, and writing through a variety of communicative activities. The Intermediate-Low language learner understands and communicates at the sentence level and can use simple sentences independently to: identify the main idea and some supporting details when reading, understand the gist and some supporting details of conversations dealing with everyday life, and infer the meaning of some unfamiliar words when used in familiar contexts. The Intermediate-Low language learner understands and communicates at the sentence level and can use simple sentences independently to: ask and answer questions related to everyday life, and handle simple transactions related to everyday life. The Intermediate-Low language learner understands and communicates at the sentence level & can use simple sentences independently to handle simple transactions related to everyday life

LEVEL 3: Spanish Honors

This intermediate-mid course, conducted as an immersion experience of the target language, continues the development of listening, speaking, reading, and writing through a variety of communicative activities. This course prepares the student for a future Spanish AP course. The Intermediate-Mid language learner understands and communicates at the sentence level and can use strings of sentences independently to: identify the main idea and some supporting details when reading, understand the gist and some supporting details of conversations dealing with everyday life, and infer the meaning of some unfamiliar words when used in familiar contexts. The Intermediate-Mid language learner understands and communicates at the sentence level and can use strings of sentences independently to: ask and answer questions related to everyday life, and handle simple transactions related to everyday life.

LEVEL 4: American Sign Language, French, Italian, Spanish, Mandarin Chinese

This intermediate – mid course, conducted exclusively in the target language, emphasizes the study of language through the introduction of literature and advanced grammatical structures. The Intermediate-Mid language learner understands and communicates at the sentence level and can use strings of sentences independently to: identify the main idea and some supporting details when reading, understand the gist and some supporting details of conversations dealing with everyday life, and infer the meaning of some unfamiliar words when used in familiar contexts. The Intermediate-Mid language learner understands and communicates at the sentence level and can use strings of sentences independently to: ask and answer questions related to everyday life, and handle simple transactions related to everyday life.

LEVEL 4 : Spanish Honors

This Honors level course, a prerequisite to Advanced Placement, continues the practice of language skills with special emphasis on reading and writing through the exploration of a variety of literary pieces. Grades for this course are weighted. The Intermediate-High language learner has progressed from understanding and communicating at the sentence level to understanding and communicating at the paragraph level and can use connected sentences and paragraphs independently to: analyze written and oral text, synthesize written and oral text, identify most supporting details in written and oral text, infer meaning of unfamiliar words in new contexts, infer and interpret author’s intent, identify some cultural perspectives as well as the organizing principle in written and oral text. The Intermediate-High language learner has progressed from understanding and communicating at the sentence level to understanding and communicating at the paragraph level and can use connected sentences and paragraphs independently to: infer meaning of unfamiliar words in new contexts, identify some cultural perspectives, narrate and describe across a wide-range of topics, compare and contrast, offer and support opinions, persuade someone to change a point of view, make and change plans, offer advice, and handle a situation with a complication. The Intermediate-High language learner has progressed from understanding and communicating at the sentence level to understanding and communicating at the paragraph level and can use connected sentences and paragraphs

LEVEL 5: ADVANCED PLACEMENT: Spanish

Recommendation of a Level 5 language teacher is a prerequisite for this course. This Honors level course is designed to prepare students for the Advanced Placement Language Examination through the examination of history and literature and extensive training in the organization of essay writing. Grades for this course are weighted. The AP Spanish Language Examination is offered annually in the spring.

SPANISH FOR HERITAGE SPEAKERS 1 & 2

This course is designed for students who speak and hear Spanish at home but need to improve their academic language skills. Spanish speaking students strengthen language skills and develop an appreciation for literature and culture. This course may satisfy university foreign language requirements if taken in conjunction with Spanish 4, Spanish 5, or AP the following year. Courses are five credits, offered for a full year, and taught in sequence.

ESL DEPARTMENT

The ESL Department at Piscataway High School is dedicated to promoting acculturation into American society while respecting and appreciating the language and culture of the students and their families. We endeavor to teach ESL and English language arts literacy so that students will be able to communicate in English and achieve academically in order to facilitate the transition of students from the ESL Program to the General Education Program when they are ready as determined by multiple criteria and State Code. We ensure that all English Language Learners make yearly progress toward English proficiency as measured by the New Jersey State mandated ACCESS 2.0® Test. We encourage and support the involvement of parents in classroom, school, and district programs.

ESL Department Course Offerings

	GRADE
SUBJECT	9	10	11	12	CREDITS
ESL Reading 1	X	X	X	X	5.0
ESL Writing 1	X	X	X	X	5.0
ESL Reading 2	X	X	X	X	5.0
ESL Writing 2	X	X	X	X	5.0
ESL Reading 3	X	X	X	X	5.0
ESL Writing 3	X	X	X	X	5.0
ESL Reading 4	X	X	X	X	5.0
ESL Writing 4	X	X	X	X	5.0
ESL Reading 5	X	X	X	X	5.0
ESL Writing 5	X	X	X	X	5.0
ESL Honors World Cultures*	X	X	X	X	5.0
ESL United States History 1*	X	X	X	X	5.0
ESL United States History 2*	X	X	X	X	5.0
ESL Biology*	X	X	X	X	5.0
ESL Physical Science*	X	X	X	X	5.0
ESL Chemistry*	X	X	X	X	5.0
ESL Algebra 1*	X	X	X	X	5.0
ESL Algebra 2*	X	X	X	X	5.0
ESL Geometry*	X	X	X	X	5.0

5.0 Credits -Full Year *Regular content courses with in-class ESL support

ESL Reading 1

The ESL 1 reading course is aligned with the WIDA level “Entering”

This class provides individual and group instruction to those students who are at a newcomer/novice-low level. Conversation practice, vocabulary building, with a focus on developing reading literacy skills are stressed.

ESL Writing 1

The ESL 1 writing course is aligned with the WIDA level “Entering”

This class provides individual and group instruction to those students who are at a newcomer/novice-low level. Conversation practice, Conversation practice, and vocabulary building, with a focus on developing writing literacy skills are stressed.

ESL Reading 2

The ESL 2 reading course is aligned with the WIDA level “Emerging”

This class provides individual and group instruction to those students who are at the intermediate-low level. Conversation practice, vocabulary building, with a focus on developing reading literacy skills are stressed.

ESL Writing 2

The ESL 2 writing course is aligned with the WIDA level “Emerging”

ESL Reading 3

Prerequisite: Department recommendation

The ESL 3 reading course is aligned with the WIDA level “Developing”

This intermediate class reinforces and further develops literacy skills. The course emphasizes academic and social language development through the use of interdisciplinary content area material. Some creative and expository writing will be assigned. Students will further develop their vocabularies and use of idioms.

ESL Writing 3

Prerequisite: Department recommendation

The ESL 3 writing course is aligned with the WIDA level “Developing”. This intermediate class reinforces and further develops literacy skills. The course emphasizes academic and social language development through the use of interdisciplinary content area material. Some creative and expository writing will be assigned. Students will further develop their vocabularies and use of idioms.

ESL Reading 4

Prerequisite: Department recommendation

The ESL 4 reading course is aligned with the WIDA level “Expanding”. This intermediate-high class reinforces and further develops literacy skills. The course emphasizes academic and social language development through the use of interdisciplinary content area material. Some creative and expository writing will be assigned. Students will further develop their vocabularies and use of idioms.

ESL Writing 4

Prerequisite: Department recommendation

The ESL 4 reading course is aligned with the WIDA level “Expanding”

This intermediate-high class reinforces and further develops literacy skills. The course emphasizes academic and social language development through the use of interdisciplinary content area material. Some creative and expository writing will be assigned. Students will further develop their vocabularies and use of idioms.

ESL Reading 5

Prerequisite: Department recommendation

The ESL 5 reading course is aligned with the WIDA level “Bridging” This advanced class reinforces and further develops all literacy skills with a focus on preparation for mainstream ELA classes. The course emphasizes academic and social language development through the use of interdisciplinary content area material. Creative and expository writing will be assigned. Students will further develop their vocabularies and use of idioms.

ESL Writing 5

Prerequisite: Department recommendation

The ESL 5 reading course is aligned with the WIDA level “Bridging”

This advanced class reinforces and further develops all literacy skills with a focus on preparation for mainstream ELA classes. The course emphasizes academic and social language development through the use of interdisciplinary content area material. Creative and expository writing will be assigned. Students will further develop their vocabularies and use of idioms.

COMPREHENSIVE HEALTH AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Health/Physical Education

HEALTH/PHYSICAL EDUCATION 1

Full Year Grade 9 5 credits

The high school Physical Education program consists of a variety of well-rounded activities. Students will be exposed to three lifetime or team activities per marking period. The lifetime activities will include tennis, cross-training, power walking/jogging, physical fitness, weight training, aerobics and yoga. Team activities will include flag football, speedball, volleyball, basketball, softball, soccer, mass games, badminton, project adventure and problem solving activities. A pre- and post- physical fitness test is administered quarterly to each student. Freshman students will be participating in Fitnessgram, a complete set of health-related fitness exercises that are scored using criterion-referenced standards. The standards are gender and age specific and are based upon good health fitness standards for youth.

In our Health program, students are encouraged to examine their life-styles, select short and long-term goals, and make plans to achieve and maintain good health. Students will become aware of the responsibility they have for their own health and well-being. Health 1 will provide current information on the following topics: mental health, substance awareness, family life, responsible decision-making, sexually transmitted infections/diseases and bullying. Students will understand the difference between healthy and harmful behaviors in order to develop an understanding of the effects of behaviors on one’s overall health and wellness. Students will be shown how to practice a basic problem solving approach: recognize the health problem; identify ways to solve the problem; apply information from various sources; attempt a solution.

DRIVER EDUCATION/PHYSICAL EDUCATION II

Full Year Grade 10 5 credits

The high school Physical Education program consists of a variety of well-rounded activities. Students will be exposed to three lifetime or team activities per marking period. The lifetime activities will include but not limited to tennis, cross-training, weight training and aerobics. Team activities will include flag football, speedball, volleyball, basketball, softball, soccer, mass games, badminton, project adventure and problem solving activities. A pre- and post- physical fitness test is administered quarterly to each student. The test is a complete set of health-related fitness exercises.

The goal of the Driver Education program at Piscataway High School is to provide students with the information necessary to develop an understanding of the safe and efficient operation of motor vehicles. The course content emphasizes the personal and social implications that are pertinent to the safe and efficient operation of a motor vehicle. This can only be accomplished through the development of prospective drivers who have the necessary knowledge, habits, skills, and attitude to become good drivers. Students will be engaged in a variety of tasks to prepare them in navigating our roadways.

HEALTH/PHYSICAL EDUCATION III

Full Year Grade 11 5 credits

The high school Physical Education program consists of a variety of well-rounded activities. Students will be exposed to three lifetime or team activities per marking period. The lifetime activities will include but not limited to tennis, cross-training, weight training and aerobics. Team activities will include flag football, speedball, volleyball, basketball, softball, soccer, mass games, badminton, project adventure and problem solving activities. A pre- and post- physical fitness test is administered quarterly to each student. The test is a complete set of health-related fitness exercises.

Health 3 provides students with the opportunity to gain skills necessary to cope with health-related problems in a world that is constantly changing. Students will understand that they have a responsibility to others as well as to themselves. They will develop an understanding of the value of interpersonal relationships. Topics discussed in this course include: Stress; Suicide Prevention; Nutrition; First Aid, and CPR. Students will be shown how to practice a basic problem solving approach, recognize the health problem, identify ways to solve the problem, apply information from various sources and attempt a solution. Students will also receive training in CPR, which will fulfill the state’s requirement.

HEALTH/PHYSICAL EDUCATION IV

Full Year Grade 12 5 credits

The high school Physical Education program consists of a variety of well-rounded activities. Students will be exposed to three lifetime or team activities per marking period. The lifetime activities will include but not limited to tennis, cross-training, weight training and aerobics. Team activities will include flag football, speedball, volleyball, basketball, softball, soccer, mass games, badminton, project adventure and problem solving activities. A pre- and post- physical fitness test is administered quarterly to each student. The test is a complete set of health-related fitness exercises.

Health 4 emphasizes the nature, importance and skills in relationships. Course topics will include: Gender Issues; Love; Marriage; Childbirth; Parenting; Prevention of Sexually Transmitted Diseases including HIV/AIDS; and research of a variety of mental illnesses. Students will be shown how to practice a basic problem solving approach, recognize the health problem, identify ways to solve the problem, apply information from various sources and attempt a solution.

OPTION 2 Physical Education

Full Year Grade 9-12 5 credits

Students participating on a school sponsored athletic team(s) or participating in an athletic program that competes on a national level can apply to opt out of Physical Education. In lieu of physical education students must take an additional class that relates to their academic and or career goals. There is an application to participate; please see your counselor for information on the application process.

VISUAL & PERFORMING ARTS

The areas of Visual Arts, Music, Theatre, and Dance are aligned with the NJ State Standards for Visual and Performing Arts. In order for our school district to develop a comprehensive education for our students, the following descriptions, pathways, and courses will show the wide variety of courses offered in the Visual and Performing Arts.

Visual Arts

Visual Arts Department Course Offerings

Subject	Grade				Credits
Subject	9	10	11	12	Credits
World of Art	X	X	X	X	5.0
Drawing and Painting I	X	X	X	X	5.0
Drawing and Painting 2*		X	X	X	5.0
Photographic Design 1	X	X	X	X	5.0
Photographic Design 2*		X	X	X	5.0
Ceramics and Sculpture 1	X	X	X	X	5.0
Ceramics and Sculpture 2		X	X	X	5.0
Ceramics 3: The Pottery Wheel			X	X	5.0
Graphic Design 1	X	X	X	X	5.0
Graphic Design 2*		X	X	X	5.0
Multimedia Printing and Design	X	X	X	X	5.0
Introduction to Animation	X	X	X	X	5.0
Animation 2*		X	X	X	5.0
Advanced Placement Drawing 1			X	X	5.0
Advanced Placement Drawing 2			X	X	5.0
Advanced Placement 2D Design 1			X	X	5.0
Advanced Placement 2D Design 2			X	X	5.0
Advanced Placement 3D Design			X	X	5.0
Advanced Placement Art History			X	X	5.0
Visual Arts Workshop (Independent Study)	Teacher Recommendation				5.0

* Independent Study offered upon completion of course sequence.

Common Visual Arts Pathways

Drawing & Painting

Drawing & Painting I

Drawing & Painting II

AP Drawing I

AP Drawing II

Photography

Photo Design I

Photo

Design II

AP 2D

Design I

AP 2D

Design II

Ceramics & Sculpture

Ceramics & Sculpture I

Ceramics & Sculpture II

Ceramics 3: The Pottery Wheel

AP 3D Design/

Sculpture Independent Study

Graphic Design

Graphic Design I

Graphic

Design II

Graphic Design Independent Study

AP 2D Design I

Animation

Intro to Animation

Animation II

Additional Visual Arts Courses (added as schedule permits)

World of Art

Multimedia Printing & Design

AP Art History

Visual Arts Workshop (Teacher Recommendation Only)

Extracurricular Art Opportunities

National Art Honor Society

Design Opportunities Through PHS Stage Crew

Art Shows/Exhibits

A Note about Visual Art Beyond High School

Admission to an art school depends heavily on the depth and breadth of the student portfolio. As is necessary in any concentration of study, it is best to develop skills in both 2D and 3D artwork. Therefore, the above can be altered to establish the breadth of the artistic experience. All students applying to art schools must submit a portfolio in order to show a good sampling of their artistic skills. More than one course is necessary to achieve this goal.

Visual Arts Course Descriptions

WORLD OF ART

Full Year Grades 9-12 5 credits

This course is designed for the beginning visual art student who is interested in exploring various mediums of visual art with minimum prior experience. Students will explore a wide range of “hands on” visual arts experiences. Areas of study include drawing, painting, color theory, collage, sculpture, and digital art. The instructor will help students not only to strive to produce quality finished products but also inspire diversified, creative thinking. In addition to learning the basic developmental skills and techniques in each area, this course will expose students to the works of famous artists and stress the art elements and design principles of good composition.

DRAWING AND PAINTING 1

Full Year Grades 9-12 5 credits

This course is recommended for the beginner drawing and painting student. In this course, we learn a wide variety of drawing and painting techniques. Students learn how to use pencil, color pencil, acrylic paint, and watercolor, while exploring different subject matter. This course is a prerequisite to Drawing and Painting 2.

DRAWING AND PAINTING 2

Full Year Grades 10-12 5 credits

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation and a minimum 90 average in Drawing and Painting 1.

This course is intended for the student who is seriously considering a career in the visual arts after high school. It is a continuation of Drawing & Painting I. It emphasizes drawing from observation and the use of different media and techniques to create art. Students will continue to develop compositional skills while combining media in new and visually interesting ways.

GRAPHIC DESIGN 1

Full Year Grades 9-12 5 credits

Do you take notice of nice logos, interesting movie posters, or album artwork? This course is for the student interested in creating visually interesting designs. We’ll learn how to use elements and principles of design to design successfully. This class has a variety of activities ranging from sketching, drawing abstract designs, designing with type, using digital cameras, and learning professional software, such as Illustrator and Photoshop.

GRAPHIC DESIGN 2

Full Year Grades 10-12 5 credits

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation and a minimum 90 average in Graphic Design 1.

This course is intended for students interested in Graphic Design as a possible career, or students who would like to explore advanced projects in Graphic Design. A strong competency of skills acquired in Graphic Design I is necessary. Classroom activities will include expanded projects such as web design and 3 dimensional projects.

PHOTOGRAPHIC DESIGN 1

Full Year Grades 9-12 5 credits

This course is recommended for the beginning photography student and is a prerequisite to Photographic Design 2. The exploration of the design elements and principles will be studied through the photographic image. Classroom activities include picture taking, developing, and printing of images in a darkroom setting as well as the enhancement of the digital image via the computer. Students will be required to take photos for various assignments on their own time, outside of the school day. It is recommended that students have a camera to use for this class.

PHOTOGRAPHIC DESIGN 2

Full Year Grades 10-12 5 credits

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation and a minimum 90 average in Photographic Design 1.

Learn to use an SLR manual camera in order to make your own photographic prints and portfolio. Students will learn a wide variety of camera and darkroom techniques, as well as digital skills via the computer and software such as Photoshop. Students will be required to take photos for various assignments on their own time, outside of the school day. It is recommended that students have a camera to use for this class.

CERAMICS & SCULPTURE 1

Full Year Grades 9-12 5 credits

This is a five credit full year course. Throughout the year, basic ceramics skills will be covered, such as hand building with pinch, coil, and slab. Terminology, exploration of textures, and applying glazes are included in this course. Students will also learn art history as it is related to a particular project they have created. Other materials students may be using in the course are paper, cardboard, glass (mosaics), and wire. Students also create an art journal in which they will create mixed media projects.

CERAMICS & SCULPTURE 2

Full Year Grades 10-12 5 credits

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation and a minimum 90 average in Ceramics & Sculpture 1.

This is a five-credit full year course. Throughout the year, students will continue to build on their hand building techniques, which they learned in level 1 with an opportunity to further their study of three-dimensional art. The projects will be more challenging than in level 1. Students will have the opportunity to explore the pottery wheel for a short period of time. Terminology, exploration of textures, and applying glazes are also included in this course. Students will also learn art history as it is related to a particular project they have created. Other materials students may be using in the course are paper, cardboard, glass, and wire. Students also create mixed media projects in an art journal.

CERAMICS 3: THE POTTERY WHEEL

Full Year Grades 11-12 5 credits

Prerequisite: Ceramics & Sculpture 1 & 2 – This class is for students who have taken Ceramics level 1 and 2, and who have maintained a 90% or higher in both classes. This class is designed for students who have already worked on the wheel in Level 2.

In this intensive course, students will learn the skills necessary to throw cylinders, cups, bowls, and more. Students will be guided through the process of throwing, shaping, and trimming pots on the wheel. Surface decoration and glazing techniques are further developed in this course. Students will create an art journal to record their ideas, sketches, and glazes.

MULTIMEDIA PRINTING & DESIGN

Full Year Grades 9-12 5 credits

Multimedia Printing and Design covers basic principles, materials and equipment used in the major printing processes. Emphasis is placed on graphic design, print communication, screen printing, lithography and bindery techniques. Specifically designed projects allow each student to experience the major forms of commercial and fine art printing techniques. The silkscreen process—which includes the ability to print on clothing, paper, and other materials is taught in detail. This visual arts course will provide a hands-on experience of the printing art form, along with a fundamental knowledge of Graphic Design.

INTRODUCTION TO ANIMATION

Full Year Grades 9-12 5 credits

Students explore the world of animation in this project oriented course. Animation projects cover traditional techniques such as cel, stop-motion, and Claymation in addition to computer animation using programs such as Adobe Flash CS6. Multimedia and interactive projects teach students to use a variety of media such as video, photography, sound engineering, and internet technologies. The focus is on new uses of technology in art and design as well as providing students with skills for industry. Art concepts such as aesthetics and creativity will be strongly encouraged. This full-year course is a prerequisite for Animation 2.

ANIMATION 2

Full Year Grades 10-12 5 credits

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation and a minimum 90 average in Introduction to Animation.

This class enables students to apply animation, computer, and design skills learned in Introduction to Animation (formerly Multimedia and Animation). Students will continue to use the program Adobe Flash (or Animate) to demonstrate more complex concepts in animation art as well as explore the software in greater depth which can include interactive web-based projects, and simple game design. They will learn the basic fundamentals of 3D animation and learn software associated with this medium. Other topics addressed will include new technologies in art such as Augmented, Virtual, and Mixed Reality. Projects created in this class can be used for the student’s personal college portfolio in the areas of animation, game design, and interactive graphics.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT DRAWING AND PAINTING 1

Full Year Grades 11-12 5 credits

Prerequisite: A minimum of a 90 average in Drawing & Painting 1, 2, and teacher recommendation.

This course is designed for students who are college-bound as well as those who will be seeking future artist careers. The primary focus of the class will be on the production of a quality portfolio based on current college requirements and the Advanced Placement Art Examination. Drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, as well as experimental media will be studied. Students will take the Advanced Placement Studio Art Drawing exam by submitting a portfolio to the College Board for evaluation.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT DRAWING & PAINTING 2

Full Year Grade 12 5 credits

Prerequisite: Teacher Approval and a minimum of a 90 average in AP Drawing 1

This course is designed for students who are college-bound as well as those who will be seeking future artist careers. This course is based on the production of a drawing portfolio which may include works of one or more media. Students will take the Advanced Placement Studio Art Drawing exam by submitting a portfolio to the College Board for evaluation.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT 2-D DESIGN 1

Full Year Grades 11-12 5 credits

Prerequisite: A minimum of a 90 average in Photographic Design 1 & 2, or Graphic Design 1 & 2, and teacher recommendation

This course offers students a concentrated program that will enable them to apply for college credit in art. Students will expand their two-dimensional design skills and advance their visual communication skills by exploring a variety of design processes and techniques, and compositional and aesthetic concepts. Emphasis is centered on studio work, the preparation of a portfolio, and the submission of the portfolio for Advanced Placement grade. During the year, students will be offered the opportunity to take the Advanced Placement General Art Examination for college credit.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT 2-D DESIGN 2

Full Year Grade 12 5 credits

Prerequisite: Teacher approval and a minimum of a 90 average in AP 2D Design 1

This course is the continuation of Advanced Placement Design Portfolio 1 for students who are college-bound as well as those who will be seeking future artist careers. This course is based on the production of a design portfolio that may include works of one or more media. During the year, students will be offered the opportunity to take the Advanced Placement General Art examination for college credit. Students must have previous art experience (coursework) and teacher approval before enrolling in this course.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT 3-D DESIGN

Full Year Grades 11-12 5 credits

Prerequisite: A minimum of a 90 average in Ceramics 3: The Pottery Wheel and teacher recommendation.

The AP 3D-Design course is designed for students who are seriously interested in the practical experience of art and wish to develop mastery in the concept, composition, and execution of their ideas. AP 3-D Design is not based on a written exam; instead, students submit portfolios or evaluation at the end of the school year. In building the portfolio, students experience a variety of concepts, techniques, and approaches designed to help them demonstrate their abilities as well as their versatility with techniques, problem solving, and ideation. Students also develop a body of work for the concentration section of the portfolio that investigates an idea of personal interest to them.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT ART HISTORY

Full Year Grades 11-12 5 credits

Prerequisite: A minimum of an 80 average in current History and English courses and an interest in art and historical context.

The AP Art History course is designed for students who are seriously interested in art and how it is situated in history and culture. Students will study the history of the world using art as evidence - building analytical and research skills that will be useful across many subjects. The primary focus of the class will be engaging with AP Art History course content from global prehistory to global contemporary art - preparing students to take the AP exam in the spring. Students will learn how to analyze artworks and understand them in cultural and historical context.

VISUAL ART WORKSHOP (INDEPENDENT STUDY)

Full Year Grades 9-12 5 credits

Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation Required. Geared toward AP/Academy/Advanced Level Visual Art Students with an extra period available in their schedule.

This course will provide an additional visual art period (for students who have room in their schedules) that are part of the visual arts academy, AP art courses, or other advanced students. This dedicated studio time will provide an opportunity to build an academy artistic culture, practice self-critique, peer critique, and gain feedback from teachers. The class will provide an opportunity for students to have a true studio experience. Each marking period will feature a sharing or showcase where students will display their work and engage in critique and feedback.

PERFORMING ARTS

Through our performing arts courses, students will not only learn the skills needed for a proficient, creative artistic performance, but will also develop the 21st Century Skills that will make them college and career ready upon graduation from high school. Many of our ensembles have won awards at the state and national levels. Some ensembles require an audition: Honors Bella Voce, Honors Chorale, Honors Wind Ensemble, and Honors Chamber Orchestra.

Performing Arts Department Course Offerings

Subject		Grade				Credits
Subject		9	10	11	12	Credits
Dance	Introduction to Dance	X	X	X	X	5.0
	Dance 1	X	X	X	X	5.0
	Dance 2		X	X	X	5.0
	Dance 3*			X	X	5.0
Theatre	Creative Dramatics	X	X	X	X	5.0
	Acting Studio I		X	X	X	5.0
	Theatre Production Workshop*			X	X	5.0
Vocal Music	Concert Choir	X	X	X	X	5.0
	Bella Voce (Honors)	X	X	X	X	5.0
	Chorale (Honors)	X	X	X	X	5.0
Performing Arts Electives	Musical Theatre		X	X	X	5.0
Performing Arts Electives	Performing Arts Workshop	Teacher Recommendation				5.0
Instrumental Music	Orchestra	X	X	X	X	5.0
	Chamber Orchestra (Honors)	X	X	X	X	5.0
	Concert Band	X				5.0
	Symphonic Band		X	X	X	5.0
	Wind Ensemble (Honors)		X	X	X	5.0
Music Electives	Advanced Placement Music Theory		X	X	X	5.0
	Guitar	X	X	X	X	5.0
	Creating Music With Technology	X	X	X	X	5.0

* Independent Study offered upon completion of course sequence.

Common Performing Arts Pathways

The sequences below do not represent all possible course options at each level. Please refer to the course descriptions that follow for prerequisites and complete advisement information.

Course Sequence

Theatre

Creative Dramatics

Acting Studio 1

Theatre Production Workshop

Theatre Production Workshop Independent Study

	Course Sequence
Dance	Introduction to Dance	Dance 1	Dance 2	Dance 3
Dance	Dance 1	Dance 2	Dance 3	Independent Study/Dance 4

	Course Sequence
Instrumental Music	Concert Band	Honors Wind Ensemble	Honors Wind Ensemble
		Symphonic Band
	String Ensemble*	Honors Chamber Orchestra

*Advanced 9th grade students may audition to be considered for acceptance into Honors Chamber Orchestra

Course Sequence

Choral Music

Concert* Choir

Honors Chorale

Honors Bella Voce

*Advanced 9th grade students may audition to be considered for acceptance into Honors Chorale or Bella Voce

Extra-Curricular Performance Opportunities

Fall Play, Spring Musical, Chief’s Dance Team, Jazz Band, Pit Orchestra, Symphonic Orchestra

Marching Band, Close Harmony, National Honor Society for Dance Arts, Dance Company,

International Thespian Society, Stage Crew

Additional Performing Arts Courses (added as schedule permits)

AP Music Theory (Advanced students may be considered in lieu of pre-requisite course)

Creating Music With Technology Guitar

Musical Theatre Performing Arts Workshop (Pull Out Lessons)

A Note about Performing Arts Beyond High School

Admission to a performing arts school depends heavily on student audition. All students applying to performing arts programs must prepare an audition to demonstrate their performance skills and knowledge. More than one performing arts course is necessary to achieve this goal and participation in the full course sequence is optimal.

Performing Arts Course Descriptions

INTRODUCTION TO DANCE

Full Year Grades 9-12 5 credits

Introduction to Dance is a course designed for any student who has an interest in learning about the art of dance. No previous dance experience is required. In this course, students explore the art of dance as a form of communication and cultural relevance. Students gain an understanding of the 15 concepts of dance, social dance, dance history, anatomy, choreography, and performance. The techniques of ballet, modern, and jazz dance genres may also be explored. Emphasis on the achievement of basic dance skills and the development of body awareness, energy, and rhythm will be fundamental principles of this class. At the end of each unit of study, students will be assessed on his/her/their understanding of the dance concepts. This course will culminate in either a written final exam, or a final year-end performance that includes teacher and student choreography. NOTE: The performance option requires after-school evening rehearsals.

DANCE 1

Full Year Grades 9-12 5 credits

Prerequisite: Acceptance to PHS Dance Academy or Introduction to Dance completion with teacher recommendation

Dance 1 is a course for any student who wants to continue their dance education and understanding of the dance elements, dance history, choreography, and performance. Completion of Introduction to Dance, previous dance experience, approval by teacher or acceptance to Dance Academy are prerequisites for the course. Dance 1 will deepen students’ understanding of the concepts of dance and unlock tools to analyze, interpret, and create dance and dance masterworks. This course will focus on advanced beginner to intermediate technique in ballet, modern, and jazz dance genres. Dance 1 will acquaint students with the process of developing a strong performance quality, through technique class and improvisational tasks. Students will begin to experiment with the art of dance composition. At the end of the Dance 1 year, continuing students will determine his/her/their preferred dance track moving forward in the program. Tracks are: Performance or Choreography. This course will culminate in a final year-end performance that includes teacher and student choreography. All students enrolled in Dance 1 are required to participate in the performance. After-school and evening rehearsals, to prepare for the performance are required.

DANCE 2

Full Year Grades 10-12 5 credits

Prerequisite: Dance 1 completion with teacher recommendation

Dance 2 is a course for any current dance student that wants to deepen their knowledge and understanding of choreography, performance, Laban Movement Analysis, and dance history. It is designed for the serious student of dance. Completion of Dance 1 or teacher approval are prerequisites for the course. Dance 2 will further acquaint students with the skills needed to analyze, interpret, and create dance and dance masterworks. This course will focus on intermediate technique in ballet, modern, and jazz dance genres. The development of the choreographic voice, creative expression, and performance quality will be the primary focus of the year. Students will be expected to create new choreography daily, and present it in both informal and formal settings. This course will culminate in a final year-end performance that includes teacher and student choreography. All students enrolled in Dance 2 are required to participate in the performance. After-school and evening rehearsals, to prepare for the performance, are required. All Dance 2 Choreography Track students will participate in making a collaborative choreography that will be presented at the Spring Dance Concert. All Dance 2 Performance Track students will dance in student choreography, to be presented at the Spring Dance Concert.

DANCE 3

Full Year Grades 11-12 5 credits

Prerequisite: Dance 2 completion with teacher recommendation

Dance 3 is a course designed for the advanced dancer, dedicated to the art of making and performing dance. Completion of Dance 2 or teacher approval are prerequisites for the course. Dance 3 will immerse students in the experience of analyzing, interpreting, and creating dance and dance masterworks. Further development of the choreographic voice, performance quality, and creative expression will be the primary focus of the year. Students will be expected to: create new choreography daily, and present it in both informal and formal settings, articulate and justify his/her/their movement choices, and to experiment with the use of technology in his/her/their work. This course will emphasize the development of intermediate to advanced level dance technique in ballet and modern dance. Audition skills, professional career, and college preparation will also be addressed. This course will culminate in a final year-end performance that includes teacher and student choreography. All students enrolled in Dance 3 are required to participate in the performance. After-school and evening rehearsals, to prepare for the performance, are required. All Dance 3 Choreography Track students will participate in making a collaborative choreography that will be presented at the Spring Dance Concert. All Dance 3 Performance Track students will dance in student choreography, to be presented at the Spring Dance Concert.

CREATIVE DRAMATICS

Full Year Grades 9-12 5 credits

A first level theatre course that gives an introduction to all aspects of theatre. Students will explore the exciting world of theatre through performance and design. Units of study include the production process, improv, theatre history, jobs of the theatre, and monologue/scene study. On top of gaining a basic theatre knowledge, students will develop important 21st century life skills such as confidence, collaboration, and creativity. Students enrolled in the course will be required to attend one PHS production.

ACTING STUDIO 1

Full Year Grades 10-12 5 credits

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation and a minimum 90 average in Creative Dramatics.

A second level theatre course that focuses on the development of the actor. Students will expand and strengthen the performance skills they developed in Creative Drama while working on more challenging and advanced material. Units of study include pantomime, voice for the actor, monologue/scene study, directing, and playwriting. Students will also enhance their analysis and critique methodologies through self and peer evaluations. Students enrolled in the course will be required to attend one PHS production.

THEATRE PRODUCTION WORKSHOP

Full Year Grades 11-12 5 credits

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation and a minimum 90 average in Acting Studio.

This third (and fourth) level theatre course prepares students for real-world experiences in the arts, higher education, and future careers. In this course, there are opportunities for students to perform in or design a production for a live audience, manage and direct a one-act play, analyze and work on advanced theatrical text, and prepare audition/interview material. Students in this course will be required to either attend or participate in the Piscataway High School evening theatre productions. Students will also be required to attend after school rehearsals in preparation for the Children’s Theatre Tour and the Director’s Showcase. Dedicated acting students can take a second year of this course as the material, performances, and experiences will be different with each iteration of the course.

Please Note: Year 2 of Theatre Production Workshop will be called: Theatre Production Workshop Independent Study. Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation and a minimum 90 average in Theatre Production Workshop

Music

CONCERT CHOIR

Full Year Grades 9-12 5 credits

This is a beginning level course that requires no singing experience or audition. All are welcome! Course topics include vocal technique, musicianship, sight-singing, ensemble skills, and performance. Students will enjoy studying a variety of music in a supportive environment. This performance-based course will include two mandatory evening performances.

BELLA VOCE (HONORS)

Full Year Grades 9-12 5 credits

Prerequisite: Acceptance by audition and director approval.

This is a selective, auditioned ensemble open to soprano and alto voices with an advanced level of maturity, responsibility and commitment in rehearsal and performance. Students will be expected to demonstrate a high level of skill in singing, reading music, and rehearsal techniques. Independent practice is a requirement for the course. Students wishing to take this course must be aware that this group is performance-oriented and students are expected to attend a number of mandatory performances each year.

CHORALE (HONORS)

Full Year Grades 9-12 5 credits

Prerequisite: Acceptance by audition and director approval.

This is a selective, auditioned ensemble open to soprano, alto, tenor, and bass voices with an advanced level of maturity, responsibility and commitment in rehearsal and performance. Students will be expected to demonstrate a high level of skill in singing, reading music, and rehearsal techniques. Independent practice is a requirement for the course. Students wishing to take this course must be aware that this group is performance-oriented and students are expected to attend a number of mandatory performances each year.

CHAMBER ORCHESTRA (HONORS)

Full Year Grade 9-12 5 credits

Prerequisite: Acceptance is by audition only.

Honors Chamber Orchestra is a select, performance-based course that is open to students who audition successfully for admission to the Chamber Orchestra. Auditions for this group are held at the beginning of the school year. Honors Chamber Orchestra is an advanced course that explores more advanced repertoire than Orchestra. Through the rehearsal and study of challenging repertoire, students will study topics in music theory, music history, and critique. Class work, quizzes, and lessons, as well as attendance at performances are essential in determining the band student’s grades. The Chamber Orchestra performs an average of 5 times per year. Student participation in these performances is mandatory. Enrolled students will continue to develop skills in sight-reading, ear training, and string ensemble study.

STRING ENSEMBLE

Full Year Grades 9-12 5 credits

Prerequisite: Middle/High School Level Proficiency on Instrument

Orchestra is a performance-based course that is open to all students who have participated in a school orchestra program for at least three years. The orchestra performs an average of 5 times per year. Student participation in these performances is mandatory. Enrolled students will continue to develop skills in sight-reading, ear training, and string ensemble study.

CONCERT BAND

Full Year Grade 9 5 credits

Prerequisite: Middle School Level Proficiency on Instrument

Concert Band is open to all students in grade 9 who have participated in an instrumental music ensemble at the middle school level. It is a performance course that stresses the fundamentals of good musical performance. In this course, ninth grade students will continue to develop foundational music skills that will lead to proficiency in instrumental music. Attendance at performances and rehearsals is mandatory. Mid-semester entry into the course is by audition only. Note: This course is mandatory for any ninth grade student planning to participate in the marching band program.

SYMPHONIC BAND

Full Year Grades 10-12 5 credits

Prerequisite: High School Level Proficiency on Instrument

Symphonic Band is open to all students in grades 10-12 who have participated in an instrumental music ensemble at the middle and high school level. This performance-based course stresses the fundamentals of good musical performance. In this course, students will continue to develop foundational music skills that will lead to proficiency in instrumental music. Through the rehearsal and study of challenging repertoire, students will study topics in music theory, music history, and critique. Attendance at performances and rehearsals are mandatory. Mid-semester entry into the course is by audition only.

WIND ENSEMBLE (HONORS)

Full Year Grades 10-12 5 credits

Prerequisite: Acceptance is by audition only.

The Wind Ensemble is a select performance-based group that requires a successful audition for admission to the course. Auditions for this group are held in late January or early February for the following year and are open to all students in grades 9-11 with prior band experience. Wind Ensemble is an advanced course that explores a more advanced repertoire than Concert Band and Symphonic Band. Through the rehearsal and study of challenging repertoire, students will study topics in music theory, music history, and critique. Class work, quizzes, and lessons, as well as attendance at performances are essential in determining the band student’s grades.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT MUSIC THEORY

Full Year Grades 10-12 5 credits

Prerequisite: Acceptance by portfolio of student work or approval by music teacher.

This course will allow those students who have an aptitude for music theory and appreciation to further learn advanced skills that will make them eligible to receive AP credit. Students will develop their recognition of understanding materials and processes through identification of musical scores while developing an understanding of compositional techniques. Skills developed will include notation, composition, and knowledge of terminology along with performance, analysis, and oral skills.

CREATING MUSIC WITH TECHNOLOGY

Full Year Grades 9-12 5 credits

Prerequisite: Proficiency in reading music is necessary. Some basic musical knowledge and experience is required and will need to be demonstrated.

This course is designed for the student who wants to learn to use technology and MIDI keyboards for basic musical composition. Beginning with an understanding of musical elements, you will then be introduced to advanced composing and recording techniques. This could include arranging for live performances, recording and editing live and digital performances, and creating music to accompany video segments.

GUITAR

Full Year Grades 9-12 5 credits

Students will learn the parts of the guitar, how to tune, and how to read notes and rhythms on the treble clef. They will play melodies, learn about chord progressions, and play basic chord progressions through various strumming patterns. Students will perform individually and as an ensemble. Students will also compose their own songs.

MUSICAL THEATRE

Full Year Grades 10-12 5 credits

Prerequisite: A Vocal Music, Dance, or Theatre Course with a final grade of 90 or higher.

Musical Theatre will allow students to explore the collaboration and connections that exist in this art form with support from three performing arts areas: Dance, Theatre, and Vocal Music. This will be open to students that have taken at least one course in one of the three areas of focus (Dance, Theatre, and Vocal Music). This course supports students that are bound for college musical theatre programs, and draws on student leadership that have aspirations in this performing arts area. The primary focus of the course is on the process and skills of musical theatre.

PERFORMING ARTS WORKSHOP (INDEPENDENT STUDY)

Full Year Grades 9-12 5 credits

Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation Required. Geared toward AP/Academy/Advanced Level Performing Arts Students with an extra period available in their schedule.

This course will provide an additional performing arts period (for students who have room in their schedules) that are part of the performing arts academy, AP and Honors courses, or other advanced students. The class provides an opportunity to build an academy artistic culture, practice self-critique, peer critique, and gain feedback from teachers. The class will also provide an opportunity for students to have a true studio/student-led rehearsal experience. Each marking period will feature a sharing or showcase where students will display their work and engage in critique and feedback.

MEDIA TECHNOLOGY

INTRODUCTION TO TELEVISION BROADCASTING & DIGITAL FILMMAKING

Semester Grades 9-12 2.5 credits (Class size limited to 15)

Students will be introduced to the basic operation of video and audio hardware and develop an understanding of the facilities and personnel needed to operate a television studio. They will also get experience planning and executing recordings at remote locations and become familiar with professional video editing software. Communication, brainstorming, troubleshooting, and team-building skills will be developed through the production of class projects which may include news programs, school projects, music videos, dramatic short films and public service announcements. Job opportunities in the TV and multimedia industries will be explored.

TELEVISION BROADCASTING 2

Full Year Grades 10-12 5 credits (Class size limited to 15)

*Prerequisite: Successful completion of Introduction to Television Broadcasting & Digital Filmmaking or teacher recommendation.Students continue to create their own television programs or participate in on-campus remote productions using state of the art equipment including studio and field cameras, audio and video mixing boards, graphics software, various types of microphones, and teleprompters. Recording will take place in our two TV studios, and “on location” throughout the school and at home. In addition to mastering the operation of hardware and software, focus will be placed on program development from the pre-production phase (project concept and proposal; storyboarding, scriptwriting, planning) through the post-production phase (digital editing, graphics creation, music composition, exporting files, and streaming). Video programs will be cablecast on the local public access cable channel, featured on the PWAY-TV YouTube channel and may be streamed or downloaded for distribution.

DIGITAL VIDEO EDITING

Full Year Grades 9-12 5 credits (Class size limited to 15)

Students will learn how to edit video programs using non-linear editing programs such as Luma Fusion, Final Cut Pro, and/or Adobe Premiere Software Suites including Apple Motion and/or Adobe After Effects. Motion and 3D transitions and effects are covered, as well as key framing and basic animation. Many student video projects will be suitable for: cablecasting on the local public access station; importing into a software program such as PowerPoint; posting or streaming on a hosting website such as YouTube or Vimeo; storing on a computer server for multiple user access; or exporting to an external storage device.

ADVANCED TV PRODUCTION (Honors)

Full Year Grades 11-12 5 credits

*Prerequisites: Successful completion of two out of the following three and teacher recommendation: Introduction to Television Broadcasting & Digital Filmmaking, TV Broadcasting 2, or Digital Video Editing Through real world projects, the Advanced TV Production course will give students intense hands-on work in the areas of: • Technical operation of hardware • Improved workflow and mastery of digital editing software such as Premiere Pro and Adobe After Effects • Scheduling and time management; Project management from beginning to end • Communication skills including public speaking/presentations; on air presence; interpersonal communication, teaching strategies and methods • Storytelling/creation of impactful, meaningful, informative or artistic messages • Teambuilding, collaboration, brainstorming • Critical thinking and problem solving • Constructive critiquing and evaluation • Marketing techniques using the latest social media technology Students will work on different projects each year, dependent on student interest, ability, and market demand. Sometimes students will work together as one large production team, other times they will work individually or in small groups. Many of their productions may be entered into contests including a PSA and film challenge contests.

INDEPENDENT STUDY IN RADIO OR TELEVISION OR DIGITAL VIDEO EDITING Full Year Grades 10-12 5 credits (full year) *Prerequisite: Students must be recommended by Department Supervisor

Advanced students have the opportunity to continue their radio/TV/video editing studies by enrolling in an independent study course designed around their specific interests. Please consult your counselor for details.

RADIO BROADCASTING & AUDIO PRODUCTION

Semester Grades 9-12 2.5 credits (Class size limited to 15)

This course introduces students to radio broadcasting and audio production work in a studio and field setting. Students produce content for the high school radio station, 90.3FM The Pulse. This course explores aspects of the radio industry including radio production, formulating an on-air personality, promoting oneself to an audience, writing for radio news, plus reviewing key parts of radio broadcast history. Students will gain knowledge of operating professional audio recording equipment present in a professional broadcast facility. Students will generate outlines, show breakdowns and scripts for audio productions using industry standard formats and content management systems. Students will become familiar with radio station content management software, as well as professional grade audio editing software (including but not limited to Adobe Audition, Garageband, Logic Pro, Final Cut Pro, and Adobe Premiere Pro CC.) Students will also gain experience and learn best practices pertaining to independent and collaborative endeavors, field and studio recording, and digital audio editing/mixing.

Career Readiness, Life Literacies and Key Skills

The State of New Jersey mandates that all students achieve the New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standards for Career Readiness, Life Literacies and Key Skills (Family/Consumer Science, Business Administration & Technology Education).

At PHS, all students satisfy this graduation requirement through:

The opportunity to take a wide variety of practical arts/career arts classes.
Career activities which are infused into existing courses
Participation in the High School Skills Based Career Program

CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION

Specialized courses in Career and Technical Education (CTE) are aligned to the NJ Student Learning Standards and help students develop attitudes, skills, and the work ethic necessary for future success. CTE courses offer students the opportunity to explore, learn, and apply skills related to the real and simulated workplace. In order for our school district to develop a comprehensive education for our students, the following charts will show the wide variety of courses offered in this area. The course descriptors that follow the charts are categorized under the department that developed the offering.

Career and Technical Education Department

Course Offerings

	GRADE
SUBJECT	9	10	11	12	CREDITS
Introduction to Engineering Design (Project Lead The Way)	X	X	X		5.0
Digital Electronics (Project Lead The Way)		X	X	X	5.0
Principles of Engineering (Project Lead The Way)		X	X	X	5.0
Civil Engineering & Architecture (Project Lead The Way)		X	X	X	5.0
Electricity/Electronics 1	X	X	X	X	5.0
Print Production 1	X	X	X	X	5.0
Print Production 2		X	X	X	5.0
Print Production 3			X	X	5.0
Print Production Senior Option				X	15.0
Publishing and Marketing a Yearbook		X	X	X	5.0
Wood Technology 1	X	X	X	X	5.0
Wood Technology 2		X	X	X	5.0
Wood Technology 3 *			X	X	5.0

∇ Senior Option

* Independent Study offered upon completion of sequence.

5.0 Credits – Full Year

Career and Technical Education

The Career and Technical Education programs are designed to offer students hands-on experiential learning opportunities that incorporate many of the 21st Century Skills, such as problem solving, critical thinking collaboration and the appropriate use of technology. Through a national engineering program, Project Lead the Way (PLTW), our students apply what they know, identify problems, find unique solutions, and lead their own learning. Students investigate topics such as engineering and sustainability, digital electronics and circuit design, giving them an opportunity to learn about different engineering disciplines before beginning post-secondary education or careers.

There are a wide variety of courses offered by the Career and Technical Education Department that help students develop attitudes, skills, and the work ethic necessary for future success. The courses are Engineering & Design, Architectural Drawing, Electricity, Digital Electronics, Print Production, Wood Technology and Radio & TV Broadcast Technology. These courses offer students the opportunity to explore, learn, and apply skills related to the real workplace.

INTRODUCTION TO ENGINEERING DESIGN (PLTW)

Full year Grades 9-10 5 Credits

Prerequisite: Pre Algebra 90% or Algebra 1 with a minimum grade of 85%

This first level engineering class is part of the Project Lead the Way (PLTW) national engineering curriculum. Through hands-on learning, students will be able to apply practical knowledge gained in math and science to create, design and build solutions to real world challenges in post-secondary education and STEM-related fields. Students will learn and apply the design process, acquire strong teamwork and communication proficiency and develop organizational, critical thinking and problem solving skills. Engineering designs are developed through sketching and Computer Aided Design (CAD) software. This course is a prerequisite for advanced classes: Principles of Engineering and Architecture.

PRINCIPLES OF ENGINEERING (PLTW)

Full year Grades 10-11-12 5 Credits Prerequisite: Introduction to Engineering Design (PLTW) w/Grade of 85% or teacher recommendation

Principles of Engineering is an advanced course that is essential for students interested in any area of Engineering or related technologies. Students will continue to improve their AUTOCAD drawing skills. They will expand their design and problem-solving skills using AUTOCAD Inventor software. Emphasis on teamwork will be practiced throughout the class. The teams will design and develop prototype models using 3D printing and fabrication techniques. Electronics and Mechanical engineering will be explored by constructing and programming VEX robots. Students explore alternative energy solutions working with solar panels and hydrogen fuel cells.

CIVIL ENGINEERING AND ARCHITECTURE

Full year Grades 10-11-12 5 Credits

Prerequisite: Introduction to Engineering Design (PLTW) w/Grade of 85% or teacher recommendation

Architectural Drawing is a challenging course that combines the basic elements of design and construction. The student, assuming the role of the architect, will develop a set of plans for a residential home. Areas that will be covered include preliminary design, floor plans, foundation plans, elevation drawings and a 3-dimensional presentational drawing. The student will sharpen his overall communication and design skills by working on several challenging projects.

ELECTRICITY/ELECTRONICS 1

Full year Grades 9-10-11-12 5 Credits

This course covers all of the fundamentals necessary for those students who may either want a better understanding of the principles of Electricity and Electronics or for those who plan to pursue a career in Electricity, Electronics, or Engineering. Students will learn theory which is reinforced with hands-on lab activities. Some of the topics discussed include Scientific and Engineering Notation, Circuit Kits and Test Equipment, Direct Current and Alternating Current, Resistance, Ohm’s Law, Series and Parallel circuits, Power, House Wiring, Capacitance, Inductance, Motors, Prototype Bread Boards, Computer Systems, Binary Number System, Transistors, Logic Gates, Integrated Circuits, Microcontrollers, Programming, Rocketry, and Soldering.

DIGITAL ELECTRONICS (PLTW)

Full Year Grades 10-11 5 credits

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Electricity/Electronics 1 course (with a grade >= 85 or Teacher Recommendation) or Successful completion of Introduction to Engineering Design (PLTW)

Digital Electronics™ (DE) is the study of electronic circuits that are used to process and control digital signals. The focus is on understanding and implementing circuit design skills, not just understanding the scientific principles that make a circuit work. This rigorous course will expose students to the foundation of electronics and the Circuit Design Process, Combinational and Sequential Logic Design, Microcontrollers to control real world systems, teamwork, communication methods, engineering standards, and technical documentation. Utilizing the activity-project-problem-based (APPB) teaching and learning pedagogy, students will analyze, design and build digital electronic circuits. While implementing these designs students will continually hone their interpersonal skills, creative abilities and understanding of the design process. The course applies and concurrently develops secondary level knowledge and skills in mathematics, science, and technology.

PRINT PRODUCTION 1

Full year Grades 9-12 5 credits

Print Production 1 covers basic principles in graphic design, print communication and an introduction to Silkscreen Printing. Specifically designed projects will introduce techniques needed to create magazine, CD covers and 4 Color Separation for silkscreen printing. Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator will be introduced and used to create projects for print. No previous experience in these programs are required.

PRINT PRODUCTION 2

Full year Grades 10-12 5 credits

Prerequisite: Print Production 1 or Graphic Design 1 or consent of teacher.

Print & Production 2 is a project-oriented course, which will provide the student with an in-depth understanding of graphic arts and print production. The use of computer graphics, print communications and design, computer typesetting and word processing is expanded. This course will devote time to advertising design and layout, multicolor silkscreen printing, (which includes ability to print on clothing, paper, and other materials) and embroidering will be introduced and used to embellish hats, jackets and shirts. Project development will be in the areas of personalized stationery, greeting cards, pamphlets, brochures, T-shirts/hats and business cards.

PRINT PRODUCTION 3

Full year Grades 11-12 5 credits

Prerequisite: Print Production 2 or teacher recommendation

Graphic Design is a high-paying, diversified field that needs knowledgeable people with good work habits. You will be given a combination of live jobs and projects covering these instructional units: screen printing, digitizing for embroidery, off-set Press operation, bindery techniques, word processing, composition and layout and design, vinyl cutting, sign making and plate making. You will experience actual shop conditions and will learn basic salable skills preparing you for a career upon graduation or skills necessary for further education towards a college degree.

PRINT AND PRODUCTION STUDENT OPTION

Full year Grade 12 15 credits

See description for Student Option.

WOOD TECHNOLOGY 1

Full year Grades 9-10-11-12 5 Credits

This course is a project oriented woodworking experience, with emphasis on good work habits and safety. Project mapping, from concept to sketching, drafting, material selection, cut lists, fabrication and finishing will be achieved. Methods of simple joinery, adhesion and fastening will also be covered. Once students showcase skills using traditional hand tools, power tools and machines will be introduced. CNC (Computer Numeric Control) machines will be introduced towards the end of year. Students will develop an appreciation for carpentry and cabinet/furniture making. Required projects, as well as student-selected projects, will be constructed within a student’s ability and materials available.

WOOD TECHNOLOGY 2

Full Year Grades 10-11-12 5 Credits

Prerequisite: Wood Technology 1

This course is intended to enhance the student’s skills in use of hand/power tools and machines. This is a project-oriented course with emphasis on furniture fabrication. Students will use traditional and contemporary methods to further their skill level. Students will expand their knowledge and usage of joinery. Fine craftsmanship and safe work habits are stressed throughout this course.

WOOD TECHNOLOGY 3

Full Year Grades 11-12 5 Credits

Prerequisite: Wood Technology 1 and Wood Technology 2

This advanced course in woodworking focuses on cabinetry and fine woodworking. Students will ready themselves to start a career in carpentry, or further their hobby interests. Students will focus on a smaller number of projects, which are more detailed in design and finish. Towards the end of the year, students are expected to map out their own budget list, designs and fabrications along with respective deadlines. Safe work habits and fine craftsmanship will be stressed throughout the course.

BUSINESS

(Career and Technical Education Department)

The field of business is for individuals who are looking for an exciting career – one that offers excellent salaries, pleasant working conditions, and many opportunities for advancement.

The Business Education Program is designed to meet the needs of three groups of students – those interested in immediate business careers, those planning to pursue business training in college or business school, and those interested in taking business subjects for personal use.

SUGGESTED BUSINESS PROGRAM OPTIONS

The Business Management & Administration option prepares students for careers in administrative services, business information technology, general management, business financial management and accounting, human resources and operations management. College majors could include accounting, economics, management and global business, finance, entrepreneurship, organizational behavior, marketing or pre-law.
The Marketing sequence prepares students for careers in marketing communications, marketing management, marketing research, management and entrepreneurship, merchandising and professional sales and marketing. College majors could include marketing, retail merchandising and management, leisure industries, tourism, and hospitality.

Business Course Offerings

	GRADE
SUBJECT	9	10	11	12	CREDITS
Accounting 1	X	X	X	X	5.0
Honors Accounting *			X	X	5.0
Accounting 2		X	X	X	5.0
Honors Business Organization & Management*R		X	X	X	5.0
AP Macroeconomics*R			X	X	5.0
Personal FinanceR		X	X	X	2.5
Marketing	X	X	X	X	2.5/5.0
EntrepreneurshipR	X	X	X	X	2.5
Sports and Entertainment Business	X	X	X	X	2.5
Student Option ∇				X	2.5/5.0
Cooperative Education	X	X	X	X	5.0
Introduction to Business	X	X	X	X	5.0

∇ Senior Option

* Dual credit offered – Honors courses

R Meets NJ State Business, Economics, Entrepreneurship, Financial Literacy requirement

2.5 Credits – Semester Course

5.0 Credits – Full Year

Business Organization and Administration

Suggested Course Pathway Options

Business Management & Administration

Marketing

Grade 9

Accounting 1 (year)

Introduction to Business (year)

Marketing (year, sem)

Introduction to Business (year)

Grade 10

Accounting 1 (year)

Personal Finance (sem.)

Business Org. & Management (year)

Entrepreneurship (sem.)

Marketing (year, sem)

Personal Finance (sem.)

Sports & Entertainment (sem.)

Grade 11

Accounting 1(year)

Personal Finance (sem.)

Law & Business (year)

Business Org. & Management Honors (year)

AP Macroeconomics (year)

Marketing (year,sem)

Personal Finance (sem.)

Law & Business (year)

Sports & Entertainment (sem.)

Entrepreneurship (sem.)

Grade 12

Accounting 1 (year)

Honors Accounting (year)

Personal Finance (sem.)

Law & Business (year)

Business Org. & Management (year)

Student Option (year)

AP Macroeconomics (year)

Personal Finance (sem.)

Accounting 1 (year)

Cooperative Education (year)

Business Org. & Management (year)

Student Option (year)
Marketing (year,sem)

Suggested Electives

Cooperative Education (year)

Entrepreneurship (sem.)

Marketing (year)

Entrepreneurship (sem)

AP Macroeconomics (year)

Senior Option

Accounting 1 (year)

ACCOUNTING 1

Full year Grades 9-11 5 credits

Accounting 1 is a full year, 5 credit‐ course, offered to students in ninth, tenth, and eleventh grade. Accounting provides a basic introduction to the accounting cycle, accounting process, financial statements, special application, interpretation and use of data and compliance. The course is based upon the New Jersey Student Learning Standards for Career and Technical Education, which includes the mastery of fundamental accounting concepts, skills and competencies essential to making informed business decisions.

ACCOUNTING II

Full year Grades 10-12 5 credits

Accounting 2 is a full year, 5 credit course, offered to students in tenth, eleventh, and twelfth grade. Accounting 2 provides an introduction to accounting for payroll and payroll taxes, accounting process corporate financial statements, accounting for plant assets/inventory, accounting for partnerships, recording international/internet sales and use of data and compliance. The course is based upon the New Jersey Student Learning Standards, which includes the mastery of fundamental accounting concepts, skills and competencies essential to making informed business decisions.

HONORS ACCOUNTING

Full year Grades 11-12 5 credits

Prerequisite: Accounting 1 & Accounting 2

Honors Accounting the course is based upon the New Jersey Student Learning Standards for Career and Technical Education and will prepare students for the rigor of college accounting. Students will develop an understanding of double-entry accounting. Topics covered include the following: accounting cycle, accounting systems, internal controls, journals, receivables and payables, accruals and deferrals, inventory, fixed assets and depreciation, and financial statement preparation and analysis. Computerized accounting systems will be implemented for an up-to-date accounting experience. The core material for this course is similar to Accounting 2; however, more topics are covered, the pace is accelerated and expectations are higher. This course is highly recommended for motivated students planning to enter a college business program. Students can gain dual credit from Middlesex Community College and Piscataway High School by obtaining a “C” or higher in this course.

BUSINESS ORGANIZATION AND MANAGEMENT (HONORS)

Full year Grades 10-12 5 credits

Prerequisite: GPA of 80 or higher

This college-level course will include understanding the planning, supervision, control, and performance of activities involved in running a business. The problems of human relations and labor management will also be covered. Students will also understand the functions of human resources, marketing, purchasing, production, and finance. This course will be offered for dual credit, from Middlesex County College as well as from Piscataway High School.

AP® MACROECONOMICS

Full Year Grades 11-12 5 Credits

Prerequisites: Overall GPA of 85+; Completion of Algebra 2 with course grade of 85+

The AP Macroeconomics course provides students with a thorough understanding of the principles of economics and how economists use those principles to examine aggregate economic behavior. Students learn how the measures of economic performance, such as gross domestic product (GDP), inflation, and unemployment are constructed and how to apply them to evaluate the macroeconomic conditions of an economy. The course recognizes the global nature of economics and provides ample opportunities to examine the impact of international trade and finance on national economies. Students should expect to participate in and benefit from frequent interactive discussions of current news/business events and how they relate to course theory.

MARKETING

Full year Grades 9-12 5 credits

Marketing is an elective course that enables you to BRAND yourself. Learn how to INFORM, PERSUADE, and CONVINCE others to hire you or to purchase a product that you have created! You have the opportunity to receive job recommendations from the Marketing Teacher, and obtain Scholarships, with a combination of business courses. Areas covered consist of: marketing, fashion, advertising, display, business communications, salesmanship, and all phases of employability skills for Marketing. Class utilizes computer knowledge for reports, marketing plan, and career development. As a member of the class, students participate in the operation and marketing phases of the school store.

ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Semester Grades 9-12 2.5 credits

Do you know what it takes to create your own company? This course will take you through the process of creating, owning, and running your own business. You will learn how to become an entrepreneur and select a product or service to sell, determine who your customers are, learn how to market your business, obtain financing, manage your employees, and more. This course will take you on an exciting adventure toward realizing your dream of owning your own business.

PERSONAL FINANCE

Semester Grades 10-12 2.5 Credits

Understanding and managing personal finances are key to one’s future financial success. This course is based on New Jersey Student Learning Standards and presents essential knowledge and skills to make informed decisions about real world financial issues. Students will learn how choices influence occupational options and future earning potential. Students will also learn to apply decision-making skills to evaluate career choices and set personal goals. The course content is designed to help the learner make wise spending, saving, and credit decisions and to make effective use of income to achieve personal financial success.

The purpose of the course is:

1. To teach about the financial planning process.

2. To offer the opportunity to apply the process through assignments.

3. To encourage students to take control of their finances.

SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT BUSINESS

Semester Grades 9-12 2.5 credits

Sports and Entertainment Marketing is a half year, 2.5 credit-course, offered to students in ninth, tenth, eleventh, and twelfth grade. Sports and Entertainment Marketing provides a basic introduction to the scope and importance of Sports and Entertainment marketing in a global economy. The course is based upon the New Jersey Student Learning Standards, which includes business management, entrepreneurship: communication and interpersonal skills; economics and professional development foundations. Various relevant career options will be explored within these fields. Critical thinking and decision-making skills will also be developed in a mock business environment.

STUDENT OPTION

Full Year Grade 12 5 credits

Prerequisites:

Application
Approval of the Mentor Teacher or Employer
Approval from Student Option Coordinator.

Students gain experience working with their mentor to best suit their career objectives to create a training plan. They gain on-the-job training (internship) right here at PHS or within the district or outside of the district. Students will accomplish many different tasks. They also learn business skills in preparing paperwork for an unpaid internship, completing a resume, cover letter and thank you letter. Other assignments include completing a “reflective journal” each day, conducting a career research, job shadow, creating a career portfolio and meeting the Student Option Coordinator to discuss any issues and successes in their training.

COOPERATIVE EDUCATION

Full Year Grade 9-12 5 credits

Want to earn money, work-experience, and credit all in one?! This course/experience provides a combination of classroom information and on-the-job training for development and readiness in the 21st century. Classroom discussions relate to current job positions. Work-based learning provides conditions for learning with real deadlines, customer contact, problem solving, and critical thinking. This course provides survival skills for the world of business. Students will be prepared to enter the complex global economy in order to participate fully and effectively to be a productive member of society. The New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standards require that students learn Workplace Readiness Skills to prepare for a successful and knowledgeable entry into the workforce. Our Cooperative Education Program provides students with a first-hand opportunity to work as they attend school as well as acquire graduation credits. Classroom instruction directly relates to the student’s cooperative business, industrial, and marketing work experience. The course covers various aspects of employment, including preparing resumes, interviewing, job training, human relations, and case problems related to their on-the-job training.

FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCE

(Career and Technical Education Department)

Family and Consumer Science Course Offerings

	GRADE
SUBJECT	9	10	11	12	CREDITS
Foods and Nutrition	X	X	X	X	5.0
Foods and Nutrition II		X	X	X	5.0

FOODS AND NUTRITION

Full year Grades 9-10-11-12 5 Credits

This course provides the students with the opportunity to explore the basic fundamentals of food preparation through practical and theoretical experiences. Instructional units cover the preparation of various food items, safety, sanitation, recipe interpretation, career awareness, and kitchen organization. Special emphasis is placed upon nutrition and the ability to relate nutrition to optimal maintenance of health and the prevention and treatment for food related deficiency and disease.

FOODS AND NUTRITION II

Full year Grades 10-11-12 5 Credits

Prerequisite Foods and Nutrition & teacher recommendation

Provides students with the opportunity to experience a cross section of nutrition science and food preparation while building skill for an expanding range of career opportunities related to foods. Emphasis is placed on health, foods and social responsibility while improving the way people eat and value food. Students explore food preparation, nutrients, life cycle nutrients, medical nutrition therapy, foods in the United States and international foods. Food and Nutrition II students design and lead activities in the Food Laboratory while exploring the six main nutrients and sub nutrients, along with the important function of each and the impact of their deficiency.

AIR FORCE JUNIOR ROTC

Course Offerings

AFJROTC LEADERSHIP EDUCATION AND AEROSPACE SCIENCE Program Syllabus

The Air Force Junior ROTC program provides students with an opportunity to learn and apply leadership skills while also learning about aerospace science and its career opportunities. The curriculum includes Aerospace Science (AS), Leadership Education (LE), and Wellness/Physical Training components. Students incur no military obligation whatsoever. Instructors are devoted to providing quality classroom experiences to the students as well as emphasizing the concept of high standards in citizenship, leadership, and scholarship which are beneficial to all students as they progress in life.

During the program, students earn five elective credits for each year of Aerospace Science/Leadership Education taken, with students able to enter and leave the program the same as any other elective program. Students are asked to participate in a wide range of academic and leadership activities both in and out of the classroom. Students wear the Air Force uniform once each week. Uniforms are provided free of charge by the United States Air Force. Students perform physical training once a week which consists of warm-ups, calisthenics, aerobic exercises, and other sports activities. Advanced students are placed in positions of responsibility and given full-supervised control of the Cadet Group as leaders and managers.

These students conceptualize, plan, organize and implement cadet activities. All students are given opportunities to demonstrate learned skills using performance-based assessments. The Air Force Junior ROTC program offers leadership, community service and college ROTC scholarship opportunities for the cadets. Aerospace Science, Leadership Education, and Wellness are simultaneously taught in each academic year.

The course is divided into two pathways: Blended and Aviation. Both pathways begin with INTRODUCTION TO AFJROTC / Freshman Seminar for Cadets. The blended pathway covers a wide variety of topics over a four year period. The Aviation pathway directs completion of the Science of Flight and Aviation Honors Ground School courses. The intent of the Aviation Pathway is for cadets to prepare for and complete the Federal Aviation Administration Private Pilot written exam. Both pathways’ four year regimen conclude with the AFJROTC SECTION being delivered in a student’s fourth year OR AFJROTC MANAGEMENT for cadets appointed to leadership positions within the Corps.

INTRODUCTION TO AFJROTC (Freshman seminar for AFJROTC)

Grades: 9th Only, Full Year 5 credits

LE SUBSECTION

Traditions, Wellness, and Foundations of Citizenship

1. Know the importance of AFJROTC history, mission, purpose, goals, and objectives.

2. Know military traditions and the importance of maintaining a high standard of dress and appearance.

3. Develop a core understanding of the US Constitution including the Bill of Rights

4. Analyze ethics, values, and morals of various organizations

Communication, Awareness, and Leadership

Apply the key factors of effective written communications.
Explore aspects of digital citizenship and responsibility
Develop an appreciation for information and media literacy.

Life Skills and Career Opportunities

1. Analyze the elements of successful stress management techniques.

2. Understand the elements of emotional and mental healthcare

3. Learn how to avoid and prevent violence.

4. Analyze aspects of self-discovery.

5. Develop skills to navigate standardized testing.

6. Cultivate awareness of how to plan your schedule and work with others.

AFJROTC PERSONAL FINANCE FOR CADETS (LE SUBSECTION)

Grades: 10-12 Half Year Paired with Science of Flight or AFJROTC AS SUBSECTION as part of a 5 credit course

Prerequisite: Introduction to AFJROTC

This course is intended to provide the building blocks of long-term financial readiness through straightforward, relatable and easy to understand content written at the student’s level but also as though the audience is an adult trying to learn these topics. The result is mature, real-world messaging and education delivered in a manner easily consumed by a high school student. Material is aligned with NJ standards and delivered in cooperation with the Business and Practical Arts Department. Students comply with graduation requirements of Personal Finance.

The purpose of the program is:

1. To teach about the financial planning process

2. To offer the opportunity to apply the process through assignments

3. To encourage students to take control of their finances.

Drill/Wellness

Cadets learn to participate in and lead individual and flight drill routines.
Participate in physical fitness, skills development, and wellness academic activities.

AVIATION TECHNICAL EDUCATION PATHWAY OBJECTIVES AND GOALS:

AFJROTC SCIENCE OF FLIGHT (AS SUBSECTION)

Grades: 10-12 Half Year Paired with Personal Finance for Cadets or AFJROTC LE SUBSECTION as part of a 5 credit course

Prerequisites: Introduction to AFJROTC

The Science of Flight: A Gateway to New Horizons is an introductory course and customized textbook that focuses on how airplanes fly, how weather conditions affect flight, and the human body, and flight navigation. The course is designed to complement materials taught in math, physics, and other science-related courses and is aligned with the National Science Education Standards, the Math Standards and Expectations, and ISTE National Educational Technology Standards for Students.

The course outcomes are:

1. Analyze the elements of flight.

2. Evaluate how atmospheric conditions affect flight.

3. Evaluate how flight affects the human body.

4. Analyze flight navigation and the purpose of aerial navigation aids.

AFJROTC AVIATION HONORS GROUND SCHOOL

Grades: 11-12 Full Year 5 Credits

Prerequisites: Two years of JROTC with “C“ or greater average (including Science of Flight), SASI Recommendation

This course is the foundation for students interested in receiving a private pilot’s license. The material covered is an advanced, more in-depth study of aerospace topics. The intent of the program is to provide AFJROTC an academically challenging course for top achievers in the AFJROTC program. Entry into ground school should be earned by high achievement in other AFJROTC courses and involvement in the cadet corps. The course receives “honors'' credit. The student must have written approval from the SASI/ASI prior to registering and must be a junior or senior honor student who has demonstrated potential and aptitude; in addition, the student must have successfully completed a minimum of 2 years of AFJROTC coursework (to include AS 200: The Science of Flight: A Gateway to New Horizons) and maintained a grade of C or better. The Private Pilot Manual is the primary source for initial study and review. The text contains complete and concise explanations of the fundamental concepts and ideas that every private pilot needs to know. The subjects are organized in a logical manner to build upon previously introduced topics.

The course objectives are:

1. Comprehend the fundamentals of flight.

2. Comprehend flight operations.

3. Comprehend the atmosphere and its effect on aircraft operations.

4. Comprehend the basics of navigation using charts and radio aids.

5. Apply the principles of aeronautical decision-making and flight-related physiological factors.

BLENDED AFJROTC Curriculum (Four year rotation of content)

AFJROTC SECTION A

Grades: 9-12 Full Year 5 credits

Prerequisite: N/A

LE SUBSECTION A

Traditions, Wellness, and Foundations of Citizenship

1. Know the importance of AFJROTC history, mission, purpose, goals, and objectives.

2. Know military traditions and the importance of maintaining a high standard of dress and appearance.

Communication, Awareness, and Leadership

1. Apply the key factors of effective communications.

Life Skills and Career Opportunities

1. Analyze the elements of successful financial management skills.

2. Create a plan to safeguard personal resources.

Drill/Wellness

Cadets learn to participate in and lead individual and flight drill routines.
Participate in physical fitness, skills development, and wellness academic activities.

AS SUBSECTION A

Journey into Aerospace History:

1. Know the historical facts and impacts of the early attempts to fly.

The Science of Flight

1. Analyze the elements of flight.

Exploring Space: The Higher Frontier

Know the specific characteristics of the Earth, Moon, solar system, and the planets.
Comprehend the big picture of space exploration, including the history of spaceflight,

organizations doing work in space, and the overall space environment.

Survival:

1. Know the elements of surviving.

AFJROTC SECTION B

Grades: 9-12 Full Year 5 Credits

Prerequisite: N/A

LE SUBSECTION B

Traditions, Wellness, and Foundations of Citizenship

1. Know the importance of attitude, discipline, and respect, and why values and ethics are so important.

2. Know the importance of individual self-control, common courtesies and etiquette.

Communication, Awareness, and Leadership

Know the ways in which personal awareness affects individual actions.

Life Skills and Career Opportunities

Analyze the different ways of pursuing a career path.
Analyze the requirements for applying to a college or university.

Drill/Wellness

Cadets learn to participate in and lead individual and flight drill routines.
Participate in physical fitness, skills development, and wellness academic activities.

AS SUBSECTION B

Journey into Aerospace History:

1. Know the major historical contributions to the development of flight.

Technical STEM Elective: Introduction to CyberSecurity

1. Summary of Recent Attacks and Motivation for CAP Action Activity Group One: Codes, Ciphers and Encryption Awareness

2. Unit Profile: Room 40 and Bletchley Park Biography: Alan Turing

3. Concepts in Information Assurance and Cyber Warfare

4. Activity Group Two: Vulnerabilities and Basic Defense Skills

Unit Profile: USCYBERCOM

5. Patriot Bio: Gen. Keith Alexander

6. A Tale of Two Operating Systems: DOS and Windows and *NIX Activity Group Three: Basic Probing Skills

7. Unit Profile: 24th Air Force & 67th Network Warfare Wing Patriot Bio: Col. Kevin B. Wooton

8. Exploring Careers in Cybersecurity

9. Activity Group Four: Preparation for Cyber Patriot

10. Unit Profile: 688th Information Operations Wing

11. Patriot Bio: Col. Robert J. Skinner

12. Conclusion and Next Steps (Checklist for Action)

Exploring Space: The Higher Frontier

Comprehend the importance of entering space, characteristics of manned and unmanned

Space flight, and how humans are affected during spaceflight.

Comprehend the key concepts for getting from the surface of Earth into orbit and to other planets.

Survival:

Know how medical procedures, clothing, and shelter can provide personal protection for a survivor in a survival situation.

AFJROTC SECTION CHARLIE

Grades: 9-12 Full Year 5 Credits

Prerequisite: N/A

LE SUBSECTION C

Traditions, Wellness, and Foundations of Citizenship

1. Know that an effective stress management program improves the quality of life.

2. Know why courtesies are rendered to the United States flag and the National Anthem.

Communication, Awareness, and Leadership

1. Know the key elements of building and encouraging effective teams.

Life Skills and Career Opportunities

1. Analyze positive and negative impact of college life in meeting career goals.

2. Evaluate the essential process for successfully pursuing a desired career or job.

LE Elective: The Complete Guide to College Financing & Admissions

The Complete Guide to College Financing & Admissions is a step-by-step approach to college financing and admissions. This revolutionary program provides critical information and hundreds of web links that connect students directly to everything they need to know to save thousands of dollars in college costs and get them into the college of their choice.

Drill/Wellness

Cadets learn to participate in and lead individual and flight drill routines.
Participate in physical fitness, skills development, and wellness academic activities.

AS SUBSECTION C

Journey into Aerospace History:

1. Know the contributions of the US Air Force to modern aviation. :

Exploring Space: The Higher Frontier

1. Comprehend how spacecraft, rockets, and launch vehicles are designed and built.

2. Comprehend the latest advances in space technology.

Survival:

1. Know the necessities for maintaining life in a survival situation.

AFJROTC SECTION DELTA

Grades: 9- 12 Full Year 5 Credits

Prerequisites:: N/A

LE SUBSECTION D

Traditions, Wellness, and Foundations of Citizenship

1. Know why it is important to be a good democratic citizen and to be familiar with the different forms of governments.

2. Know the importance of keeping yourself well and helping others stay well

Communication, Awareness, and Leadership

1. Apply the key behaviors for becoming a credible and competent leader.

Life Skills and Career Opportunities

1. Evaluate the benefits of working for the Federal Government.

2. Create a plan for successful career development

Drill/Wellness

Cadets learn to participate in and lead individual and flight drill routines.
Participate in physical fitness, skills development, and wellness academic activities.

AS SUBSECTION D

Journey into Aerospace History:

1. Know the key events of space exploration history.

The Science of Flight

1. Analyze flight navigation and the purpose of aerial navigation aids.

An Introduction to Global Awareness

1. Know how historical, geographic, religious, and ethnic factors have shaped the six major regions of the world.

2. Know how economic, political, and social factors impact cultures.

3. Know how environmental resources influence global economic development.

4. Know how population density, famine, war, and immigration influence the world.

5. Know how the economic systems of communism and capitalism have shaped the six major

regions of the world.

6. Comprehend how cultural perspectives of time, space, context, authority, interpersonal

relationships, and orientation to community affect interactions among people.

Survival:

1. Know how to travel and prepare for recovery in a survival situation.

AFJROTC MANAGEMENT

Grade: 12 (or 11 Only if assigned to a staff position) Full Year 5 Credits

Prerequisites: Three years of AFJROTC experience and assigned to Corps Leadership position

Leadership Education 400 Fundamentals of Management

AFJROTC Management provides an essential component of leadership education for today’s high school students. This course is designed for the fourth year JROTC cadet. Its aim is to provide students an introduction to basic management concepts and skills, especially as they relate to managing in a JROTC unit. The Leadership Education subsection is derived from LE400 Principles of Management textbook with the Aerospace Science subsection made up of assigned leadership duties within the Cadet Corps.

1. Analyze management and its application to JROTC.

2. Analyze the elements of project management.

3. Evaluate the importance of formal planning within an organization.

4. Analyze decision-making within an organization.

5. Evaluate time management and change management within an organization.

6. Analyze concerns managers must consider in managing individuals and groups.

7. Analyze the factors that make work teams productive.

8. Evaluate the interpersonal skills of delegating, negotiating, and mentoring.

9. Complete assigned tasks effectively and efficiently using tools, techniques and procedures acquired in the previous three years’ experience in AFJROTC.

Drill/Wellness

Participate in physical fitness, skills development, and wellness academic activities.

SUMMER LEADERSHIP COURSE:

AFJROTC AEROSPACE SCIENCE 5 – CADET LEADERSHIP COURSE

Grades: 9-11 7 to 14 days (NO SCHOOL CREDITS AWARDED)

Prerequisites: Complete one year of AFJROTC instruction with a passing grade

Open only to students enrolled in Aerospace Science for the next academic year. Intensive leadership training program conducted off campus at a local military installation for a period of two weeks. Extensive leadership academic training will prepare the student to assume an increased role in the leadership of the cadet group upon return to school. Summer encampment includes obstacle, confidence, and leadership reaction training courses designed to focus the student on his/her abilities and limitations. Cost is borne by the individual cadet/family.

UNIFORM DAY: THURSDAY/FRIDAY and Special Events. Cadets are required to wear their Physical Training uniform (T-shirt) during wellness instruction/workouts. Cadets may wear ABUs and/or Flight Suits as allowed by AFJROTC directives on designated days.

PISCATAWAY HIGH SCHOOL

FOUR-YEAR PLANNING WORKSHEET

Courses are to be selected on the basis of a seven period school day.

GRADE 9	CR	GRADE 10	CR
Physical Education 1/Health	4/5	Physical Education 2/Health	4/5
English 1	5	English 2	5
World Cultures	5	U.S. History 1	5
Math	5	Math	5
Biology	5	Physical Science OR Chemistry	5
Visual/Performing or 21st Century Life & Careers*	5	Visual/Performing or 21st Century Life & Careers*	5
World Language*	5	World Language*	5
Freshman Seminar	5	Lunch	0
Lunch	0



GRADE 11	CR	GRADE 12	CR
Physical Education 3/Drivers Ed	4/5	Physical Education 4/Health	5
English 3	5	English 4	5
U.S. History 2	5	Lunch	0
Math	5
Chemistry OR Physics	5
Lunch	0

*See Graduation Requirement Chart