Table of Contents
Dear Parents and Students:
Welcome to the Duanesburg JR/SR High School Program of Studies Guide. The 2025-2026 guide is an updated, contemporary edition that provides information about JR/SR High School requirements as well as course offerings and descriptions that will be available to students in grades 7-12.
The information in the Program of Studies Guide is organized into two sections. Our program section provides details about graduation requirements, course credit; grading and honor roll/principal’s list information, information about the AP and University in the High School (UHS) opportunities as well as descriptions of our Distance Learning (DL) offerings. The academic section, organized by department, provides specific information about the courses offered for students in grades 7-12.
Our intent in providing this updated guide is to support student and parent decision making regarding their child’s schedule to maximize their educational program. It is essential to plan and make thoughtful decisions about course selections. Therefore, take the time to select an alternative course option which can be substituted for a course that is not offered.
Duanesburg JR/SR High School offers a supportive learning environment. Our students are dignified, driven, and disciplined. Our goal is to assure our learners are enrolled in rigorous courses, supporting their development of college and career readiness, while building critical thinking, problem solving, collaboration, and communication skills. Communication is essential if our students are to be successful. Please do not hesitate to contact our counselors, Mrs. Goebel or Mr. Moeckel, our teaching staff or myself should you have any questions about your child’s educational program.
Sincerely,
Jodi Marvin
Principal
General Academic Information
Schedule
Fall Semester/Spring Semester (20-weeks each)
- Two 10-week periods in each
- Four-day cycle (days 1 through 4)
- Core classes run everyday
- Electives can run everyday or every other day
Credit
A credit is an indicator of the value the school gives to a course. The credit is based on the time and work involved in a course. Example: English 9 is a full year course, so it earns 1.0 credit. Food & Nutrition meets every day for one semester and earns 0.50 credits. Courses that meet every other day (odd or even) for the entire year would also carry 0.50 credits. You must earn a certain number of credits from certain subject areas and pass the required courses for 9th, 10th, 11th and 12th grade, which are listed under graduation requirements.
Minimum Credit/Course Load
Students in grades 9-11 must take a minimum of 6.5 credits including Physical Education. Seniors need to complete necessary credits to graduate and/or be scheduled for a minimum of 6 credits their senior year. Students should carry a course load that they are able to manage while still being challenged academically.
Grade Placement/Promotion
Promotion to the next grade level is determined during the summer (prior to the start of school) and will not be adjusted during the school year upon completion of credit-bearing semester-long courses or blending (repeated) courses. Grade level is determined by the number of credits a student has earned. The year that a student enters 9th grade does not determine grade level or graduation year (but rather determines graduation requirements).
- Grade 7-completion of 6th grade
- Grade 8-completion of 7th grade
- Grade 9-completion of 8th grade
- Grade 10-must have earned a minimum of 6.5 credits
- Grade 11-must have earned a minimum of 13 credits
- Grade 12-must have earned a minimum of 19.5 credits
Prerequisites
A Prerequisite is a requirement that students must meet before a certain course can be taken. Example: To take 2-D Art, a student must complete Studio Art prior. AP and UHS courses have other prerequisites.
Electives
An Elective is a course students choose to take in order to round out their education and earn a sufficient credit for graduation. Elective courses are chosen after all required courses have been scheduled. Once required courses have been scheduled, electives can be chosen based on the student’s interest, and course availability. In order to take electives, students must meet all prerequisites. Some prerequisites may include a completion of a previous course, completion of or a minimum grade on a regents exam, or a minimum previous course average.
Accelerated Graduation/Non-Traditional Study
Students who wish to complete their graduation requirements in less than four years must plan their program accordingly. Requests must be approved by the school counselor, high school principal and superintendent, prior to beginning. A contract must be issued by the school counseling office clearly defining requirements and bearing the signatures of the student, parent/guardian(s) of the student, the school counselor, and the high school principal and superintendent.
Progress Reports
Published at the 5th week of each 10-week marking period. Progress Reports are posted to the parent portal for review. Contact the Counseling Office to request a copy.
Report Cards
Published approximately one week after the close of a 10-week marking period. Report cards are posted to the parent portal for review. Students are expected to pay for lost and damaged items before the final report card will be released to the portal. Contact the Counseling Office to request a hard copy.
Grade Point Average (GPA) Reported on Transcripts vs. Report Cards
A student’s grade point average reported on his/her transcript is compiled of all the courses he/she has taken that are scored numerically. Grade Point Average (GPA) Reported on Transcripts vs. Report Cards and divided by the number of credits the courses are worth.
The transcript is the student’s legal record and is what is sent to colleges, the military, and employers when requested. The transcript is an overall picture of academics for grades 9 through 12. A report card is a snapshot taken each quarter/ten weeks indicating how a student is currently doing.
A student’s grade point average reported on his/her report card is compiled of the courses he/she is currently taking and are scored numerically and divided by the number of courses.
The report card GPA is used to determine Principal’s List/Honor Roll, awards, and National Honor Society (NHS) nomination. The report card GPA looks at an individual quarter, semester or year in one snapshot that divides by the number of courses, not the number of credits.
Weighted Grades
Weighting means that certain higher level courses will be multiplied by either 1.025 or 1.05 depending on the course. For example, a grade of 80% in AP English would be multiplied by 1.05 and would calculate as a grade of 84%. This weighted grade would be used toward the student’s weighted GPA and class rank. The weighted average would also be used for honor roll and honor society eligibility. The courses with a 1.025 multiplier are Honors and University in the High School courses. All AP (Advanced Placement) courses will receive the 1.05 multiplier.
Weighted GPA Calculation
In order to determine a student’s grade point average (GPA), the course accrued will have a weighted grade status at the high school level. Weighting means that certain higher level courses will be multiplied by either 1.05 (for AP courses), 1.025 (for UHS courses), or 1.0 for Regents level courses.
AP English 11
Grade: 85
Credits: 1.0
Weighted?: Y (1.05)
Possible Total Points: 85 x 1.05 = 89.25
UHS Sociology
Grade: 80
Credits: 1.0
Weighted?: Y (1.025)
Possible Total Points: 80 x 1.025 = 82.00
Algebra II
Grade: 79
Credits: 1.0
Weighted?: N (1.00)
Possible Total Points: 79 x 1.00 = 79
Regents Chemistry
Grade: 81
Credits: 1.0
Weighted?: N (1.00)
Possible Total Points: 81 x 1.00 = 81
HS PE
Grade: 95
Credits: 0.5
Weighted?: N (1.00)
Possible Total Points: 95 x 0.5 = 47.50
HS Health
Grade: 93
Credits: 0.5
Weighted?: N (1.00)
Possible Total Points: 93 x 0.5 = 46.50
UHS Anthropology
Grade: 89
Credits: 1.0
Weighted?: Y (1.025)
Possible Total Points: 89 x 1.025 = 91.23
Spanish III
Grade: 80
Credits: 1.0
Weighted?: N (1.00)
Possible Total Points: 80 x 1.00 = 80.00
Forensics
Grade: 89
Credits: 1.0
Weighted?: N (1.00)
Possible Total Points: 89 x 1.00 = 89
Total Credits: 8.0
Total Possible Points: 685.48 points
Weighted GPA: 685.48 / 8.0 = 85.69
High School Credit Earned in Junior High
DCS may grant credit to Junior High students who take high school courses in Junior High. These courses must have the same expectations, curriculum and final exams as the equivalent courses taught in high school. The following DCS courses have been identified for high school credit:
- Algebra I
- Regents Earth Science
- Spanish 1A & 1B (equivalent to Spanish Culture in the HS)
Grading
The final grade in a course is determined by the teacher of record.
Distance Learning
DL courses are another opportunity available at Duanesburg for students in grades 9-12. DL courses allow DCS to expand the course selection available for students. All teachers and students participating can see and hear each other via television screens and microphones. There are limited seats available in each DL course. All students participating must take the courses seriously and be on their best behavior. DL course availability and schedule is not completed until the end of the school year. Consequently, students will need to choose and sign up for alternatives for chosen DL courses in the end that courses are not offered or available where the students have room in their schedule. Students will be removed permanently from DL courses for poor behavior. Removal is at the discretion of the DL host teacher.
Course Registration and Scheduling
Registration procedures are as follows:
- The Program of Studies Guide is made available and online. Hard copies are available from the school counseling office.
- Teachers make recommendations for students to advance to the next grade or level and for acceleration.
- Students meet with school counselors, and a sequence of courses best suited to their interests, goals, and strengths are chosen. Parents may call counselors to discuss their students’ schedule before, during or after this step.
Administration and the school counseling department design a master schedule. - Once courses are chosen and schedules are built, ONLY NECESSARY CHANGES are permitted.
- Changes are not made based on teacher or class period preferences.
Students and their parents/guardians are advised to contact their counselor over the summer if schedule adjustments must be made. Summer appointments may be at a limited availability.
Add/Drop Procedure
Students are able to add/drop a course during the first 10 days of the semester. There will be no adding/dropping courses after the designated time. Parents will be notified when dropping advanced courses, such as AP or UHS.
Course Failure
If a student fails one or more subjects, he/she places future learning in jeopardy. Students must have a minimum grade of 55 to attend summer school. If a student cannot attend summer school, he/she will be required to repeat the failed course during the following school year. Failure of any major subject reduces the number of elective options and may result in the student not receiving the necessary credits towards graduation. Students can only take 2 summer school courses per summer. Please note- not all courses are offered during summer school.
Special Education
Duanesburg School offers a continuum of Special Education services to all eligible students with specific disabilities. To register for a Special Education program or to access its services, a student must have an Individual Education Plan (IEP). The courses students with an IEP can take will be determined by the Pupil Service Team. For more information, students and parents/guardians may contact Danielle Schneible, CSE Director.
504 Plans
The “504” in “504 plan” refers to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act, which specifies that no one with a disability can be excluded from participating in federally funded programs, or activities, including elementary, secondary or postsecondary schooling. “Disability” in this context refers to a “physical or mental impairment which substantially limits one or more major life activities.” This can include physical impairments; illnesses or injuries; communicable diseases; chronic conditions like asthma, allergies and diabetes; and learning problems. A 504 plan spells out the modifications and accommodations that will be needed for these students to have an opportunity to perform at the same level as their peers, and might include such things as wheelchair ramps, blood sugar monitoring, an extra set of textbooks, a peanut-free lunch environment, home instruction, a tape recorder or keyboard for taking notes.
Response to Intervention (RtI)
Response to Intervention (RtI) is a multi-tiered early prevention and intervention system designed to improve outcomes for all students. The district will provide multiple tiers of increasingly intensive levels of targeted intervention and instruction for those students who do not make satisfactory progress in their levels of performance and/or in their rate of learning to meet age or grade level standards. It is expected that the use of the Tier Level instruction will be specific to each student’s needs and will be an ongoing process, with students entering and exiting tiers of intervention according to the analysis of student performance data and progress monitoring.
Credit Recovery/Course Retake
Students who do not make adequate progress towards course completion or fail a course with an average between 55-64 may be allowed to earn credit back through an online learning management system. Students must have regular contact, guidance and direction from a certified teacher in the course they are recovering credit. Students will need to discuss this with their school counselor and Administration.
Regents Examination Retakes
Students are expected to retake Regents examinations that they have not passed. It is suggested that students retake examinations as soon as possible after completing the corresponding course. For students who repeat an examination, the highest Regents exam score will be recorded on the student’s transcript.
NCAA
Students entering any college or university on or after August 1, 2005 and wishing to play Division I or II sports must register with the NCAA prior to graduation. Students can register with the NCAA Initial-Eligibility Clearinghouse any time during and after their junior year. At the time of registration, a transcript and SAT or ACT scores should also be sent to the Clearinghouse.
NCAA For Division I:
Students entering college in 2008 or later and who want to participate in athletics or receive an athletic scholarship during the first years must complete the following:
Students must have a combined SAT or ACT sum score that matches the core-course grade point average (GPA) and test score sliding scale (available on the NCAA Clearinghouse website). For example, a 2.4 core-course GPA needs an 860 on the SAT.
Students must complete 16 core courses including the following:
- At least 4 years of English
- At least 3 years of Math (at the level of Algebra I or above)
- At least 2 years of natural or physical science (including 1 lab course)
- At least 1 year of additional courses in English, math or natural or physical science
- At least 2 years or social sciences, and
- 4 additional academic courses in any of the above areas; foreign language, non-doctrinal religion or philosophy
NCAA For Division II:
Students entering college in 2005 or later and who want to participate in athletics or receive an athletic scholarship during the first years must complete the following:
Students must earn a 2.0 grade point average (GPA) or better in their core courses, and earn a combined SAT score of 820 or an ACT sum score of 68. There is no sliding scale in Division II.
Students must complete 16 core courses including the following (this is a new requirement and goes into effect the Fall of 2013:
- At least 3 years of English
- At least 2 years of math (at a level of Algebra I or above)
- At least 2 years of natural or physical science (including 1 lab course)
- At least 3 years of additional courses in English, math, or natural or physical science (new requirement)
- At least 2 years of social science, and 4 additional academic courses in any of the above areas; foreign language, non-doctrinal religion or philosophy (new requirement)
Courses taken in 8th grade cannot be used to satisfy NCAA requirements. All NCAA approved courses for initial eligibility are listed in the school counseling office. Students with disabilities must be able to provide;
- A current signed copy of a professional evaluation report that states the students disability and
- A copy of the student’s IEP or Section 504 Plan that relates to accommodations received by the student with the disability. Courses approved for students with disabilities can also be found in the school counseling office.
- Refer to: www.eligibilitycenter.org for details
New York State Graduation Requirements and Pathways to Graduation
New York State has introduced new options in recent years for students to meet graduation requirements. The Regents exams that have traditionally been used to satisfy the testing requirements for a Regents and Regents Diploma with Advanced Designation Diploma remain. The state has also designated additional “pathways” for students to satisfy diploma requirements, generally through some variation in required exams. While these pathways are referenced below, parents who have any questions about graduation requirements are strongly encouraged to contact their child’s counselor.
Course Requirements
Required Courses
- English: 4 Units (Regents Diploma), 4 Units (Regents with Advanced Designation)
- Social Studies: 4 Units (Regents Diploma), 4 Units (Regents with Advanced Designation)
- Mathematics: 3 Units (Regents Diploma), 3 Units (Regents with Advanced Designation)
- Science: 3 Units (Regents Diploma), 3 Units (Regents with Advanced Designation)
- Foreign Language: 1 Units (Regents Diploma), 3 Units (Regents with Advanced Designation)
- Health: ½ Units (Regents Diploma), ½ Units (Regents with Advanced Designation)
- The Arts: 1 Units (Regents Diploma), 1 Units (Regents with Advanced Designation)
- Physical Education: 2 Units (Regents Diploma), 2 Units (Regents with Advanced Designation)
- Electives: 3 ½ Units (Regents Diploma), 1 ½ Units (Regents with Advanced Designation)
Total Credits: 22 Units (Regents Diploma), 22 Units (Regents with Advanced Designation)
Testing Requirements
Students must demonstrate competency in reading, writing, math, science and social studies by passing the examinations listed below:
Criteria to earn a Regents Diploma (passing score – 65%)
- English Language Arts Regents Examination (one exam)
- Social Studies Examination (one exam)
- Mathematics Regents Examination (one exam)
- Science Regents Examination (one exam)
- Checkpoint A for LOTE or 1 unit of high school World Language credit
AND ONE OF THE FOLLOWING:
- A score of 65+ on a fifth Regents exam in Social Studies, Math OR Science
- A state-approved Career and Technical Education assessment/pathway (the list is available from BOCES)
- A state-approved Arts or Music Pathway
- A state-approved Music Pathway
- C-DOS Pathway Career Plan (216 hours and CTE coursework, which 54 of these hours in a work-based learning experience plus the completion of an Employability Profile and Career Plan each year of High School). The 54 hours do not need to be in the same program as the coursework
Earning a Regents Diploma with Honors
Students receive a Regents Diploma with Honors by achieving a computed average of 90% or above (unrounded) on the required Regents Exams as referenced on the Regents Diploma requirements
Criteria to earn a Regents Diploma with Advanced Designation (passing score – 65%)
- English Language Arts Regents Examination (one exam)
- Social Studies Examination (two exam)
- Mathematics Regents Examination (three exams)
- Science Regents Examination (LE & an additional exam)
AND ONE OF THE FOLLOWING:
- Checkpoint B for LOTE and 1 unit of high school World Language credit
- A state-approved Career and Technical Education assessment/pathway (the list is available from BOCES)
- A state-approved Arts Pathway or Music Pathway
- C-DOS Pathway Career Plan (216 hours and CTE coursework which 54 of these hours in a work-based learning experience plus the completion of an Employability Profile and Career Plan each year of High School). The 54 hours do not need to be in the same program as the coursework
Earning a Regents Diploma with Advanced Designation with Honors
Students receive a Regents Diploma with Advanced Designation with Honors by achieving a computed average of 90% or above (unrounded) on the required Regents Exams as referenced on the Regents with Advanced Designation requirements.
Criteria to earn a Career Development and Occupational Studies Commencement Credential
A C-DOS Commencement Credential can be used as a standalone high school exiting credential that shows students meet work-readiness criteria for Special Education students only, a supplement to a high school diploma, or to help meet Regents Diploma requirements as outlined above. To successfully meet C-DOS Commencement Credential requirements, students must complete a career plan and demonstrate attainment of career exploration and development learning standards. C-DOS requirements integrate academic course work and workplace readiness skills. Students must complete the equivalent of two units of study in Career and Technical Education course work, including 54 hours of work-based learning, and at least one employability profile.
Students acquiring 5 units of credit in one of the following may be exempt from the LOTE requirement: Art, Music, or Career and Technical Education.
Endorsements (three regents examinations in Math and three in Science with an 85% or higher)
Mastery in Math and Science
For more information regarding New York Diploma Requirement, please visit: http://www.p12.nysed.gov?ciai/gradreq/Documents/CurrentDiplomaRequirements.pdf
Testing Required for Graduation
1. Low Pass Safety Net Option
a. 5 required regents exams with a 55 or better (for students with an IEP or 504, when applicable.
i. 1 Math
ii. 1 Science
iii. 1 English
iv. 1 Global History and Geography
v. 1 US History and Government
2. Compensatory Safety Net Option
a. Scores between 45-54 on one or more of the five required Regents exams, other than the ELA or math exam, but compensates the low score with a 65 or better on another required Regents exam. Note: a score of at least 55 must be earned on both the ELA and math exams. A score of 65 or higher on a single exam may not be used to compensate for more than one examination for which a score of 45-54 is earned.
http://www.p12.nysed.gov/part100/pages/1005.html#assessment
http://www.p12.nysed.gov/specialed/publications/localdiplomas-may2011.htm http://www.p12.nysed.gov/specialed/publications.safetynet-compensatoryoption.html
Additional Information
Edgenuity
An online learning program used to supplement classroom instruction, to provide for tutoring support when a student is out of school for an extended time and to provide a pathway for students to complete coursework for credit recovery purposes. The counseling center will work with teachers, students and parents/guardians to coordinate implementation of Edgenuity options as identified needs arise.
Naviance
Naviance is a college and career readiness tool that helps students navigate through their high school and postsecondary plans. Students and parents will have access to the different portals available on Naviance. Registration codes for parents and students are available through the Counseling Center.
Community Service Recognition
The Community Service Recognition program recognizes student commitment to their school and their community. Students must earn a minimum of 100 hours of community service to the eligible for this award. Students may begin accumulating service hours from the summer before they enter high school until May 1st of their senior year. Application forms are available to pick up from the Counseling Center or can be found on our DCS Counseling Office site under the high school tab.
Advanced Placement/UHS
DCS has numerous courses offering AP/UHS credit. Different courses have different application procedures. Presentations will be given in content classes offering advanced credit, explaining the application procedure. Students who wish to take any AP/UHS courses must take the AP exam in May and pay the UHS/AP fee when applicable.
All students interested in being in an AP/UHS course must complete the application process to even be considered for the course.
AP and UHS courses are also offered in other subject areas. Please refer to the course descriptions for application requirements.
The courses with a 1.025 multiplier are University in the High School courses. All AP courses will receive the 1.05 multiplier.
DCS +1 Program
Students at Duanesburg Jr./Sr. High School can get a jumpstart on their college education through a partnership with SUNY Schenectady. The college has expanded its offerings so students can earn an associate’s degree while still in high school or within a year of graduating. Students have the opportunity to earn between 48 and 60 credits toward an associate’s degree while they are still in high school. The “DSC+1” program is designed for students to work toward or complete an associate’s degree while still in high school. The DCS+1 program builds upon our existing College in the High School program that is offered to students in partnership with SUNY Schenectady. These courses are intended for all students, regardless of their GPA or academic goals.
College & Career Readiness
During each stage of high school, the counseling center offers a variety of programs, evening events and field trips to enhance students’ knowledge and provide information on careers and colleges. Events include but are not limited to: Junior High Transition Night, Career & Technical Field Trips, Study Circles, SUNY Cobleskill College Fair, Junior and Senior workshops, Instant College Admit Days, College Caravan, and Financial Aid Night.
Freshman Year: With the school counselors, students research careers, learn how to prepare for jobs and school. On Naviance, students fill out the Career Cluster Finder to help assess possible career interests.
Sophomore Year: Students have the option of taking the PSAT in October. In addition, sophomores can complete the Career Interest Profiler on Naviance. Sophomores also have the option of visiting CTE sites for possible hands-on career options for Junior and Senior year. They will also have an opportunity to meet with college representatives that visit DCS.
Junior Year: It is recommended for students to take the PSAT, the practice test for the SAT and possibly qualify for the National Merit Scholarship. The test is comprised of Evidenced Based Reading and writing, and Mathematics. In the spring of students’ junior year, it is recommended that they take the SAT or the ACT, in preparation for the admission process to college. Students interested in taking any of these exams should contact the Counseling Center for the registration information. Juniors will have an opportunity to attend the Suny Cobleskill College Fair in the fall and meet with college representatives at DCS.
Senior Year: Seniors meet with their school counselor in the beginning of the year for their senior meeting, and then throughout the year on an as needed basis, to help complete college, job or military application processes. It is sometimes recommended that students applying to college take the SAT or ACT for a second time. Students will have an opportunity to meet with college representatives at DCS.
Career and Technical Programs
Career & Technical Education is one of several choices of study available to high school students. The major emphasis is on learning skills that will prepare students for success in today’s highly technical world.
Students interested in attending a career and technical program start in their junior year.
- must have be academically on track to graduate with their cohort
- must not have excessive disciplinary referrals as reviewed by the administrative department
- students are eligible for programs at Albany and Schoharie CTE campuses
- students must have good attendance.
Middle School Course Requirements
Grade 6, 7 and 8
- 3 units of English, Science, Math and Social Studies
- 1.75 units of CTE
- .5 units of Physical Education per year
- .5 units of Health
- .5 units of Visual Arts
- .5 units of Music
Library and informational skills 1 period per week may be contained within another course. This course should be co-taught with a Library Media Specialist and the classroom teacher to integrate instruction.
- LOTE is optional but 2 units are required at DCS
- Career Development and Occupational Education may be contained within another course (Family and Consumer Science)
Middle School Courses
Art Courses
Art
Grade Level: 7
Students are required to complete ½ unit of study in Visual Arts. Students will explore a variety of 2D and 3D media while learning and incorporating the Elements of Art and the Principles of Design. There will be a focus on studying and investigating the work of contemporary artists and students will apply those ideas to his or her own work.
Grade Level: 8
Art 8 is a more advanced Studio before high school filling the gap between 7th and 9th grade. Students dive deeper into mediums and artistic techniques and are exposed to different cultures and artists.
Business Courses
Middle School Success
Grade Level: 7
In this course, 7th-grade students will embark on an engaging journey to develop their research and information literacy skills, organizational skills and technology literacy. Students will learn how to effectively locate, evaluate, and use a variety of information resources, including books, online databases, and multimedia materials. Through hands-on activities and collaborative projects, learners will enhance their critical thinking abilities and become proficient in synthesizing information to construct well-informed arguments. This course not only aims to foster a love for researching, presentation and learning but also equips students with essential skills they will utilize throughout their academic careers and beyond.
Tech Literacy
Grade Level: 8
In this course, students will engage in a dynamic exploration of innovation and digital learning, aligned with New York State standards. Students will develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills while working collaboratively on projects that integrate technology and creativity. They will learn to navigate digital tools safely and ethically, fostering an understanding of cybersecurity and digital citizenship. Through hands-on activities, discussions, and presentations, students will become adept at using technology to communicate ideas, conduct research, and innovate solutions to real-world challenges, preparing them for the demands of the 21st century. This course aims to inspire a passion for technology, foster creativity, and equip students with the skills necessary for success in an increasingly digital world.
English Courses
English 7 and English 8
A reading and writing-intensive course designed to integrate basic grammar and vocabulary skills with higher-level critical analytical, comprehensive, and communication skills. Through daily practice, students will become able readers, writers, speakers, listeners, and creative thinkers.
Health & Physical Education Courses
Health 8
Students will gain knowledge and skills necessary to make informed choices about current major health concerns identified by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. The following topics are included in the curriculum; personal health and wellness, mental and emotional health, healthy eating, physical activity, safety, sexual health, violence prevention, and a drug-free lifestyle. Students will gain the necessary knowledge and skills through a variety of instructional methods that are interactive and relevant to students’ lives. The New York State Education Department requires all students to receive two half-year courses of health education. This is the first of two courses required by the New York State Department of Education. The second course will be offered in high school.
Middle School Physical Education
Grade Level:6-8 Credit: .50 Unit
Students are required to take .50 unit of study in Physical Education each year. Classes meet every other day. Students will have the knowledge and skills to maintain physical fitness, participate in physical activity, and maintain personal health. The mission of Physical Education is to empower all students to sustain regular, lifelong physical activity as a foundation for a healthy, productive and fulfilling life. This is a sequential educational program. It is based on individual and team physical activities undertaken in an active, supportive, and non-threatening atmosphere in which every student is challenged and given the opportunity to succeed.
Math Courses
Math 7
This course follows the 7th grade NYS NGLS. This is the first year of two years that builds students’ foundational skills in Algebra and Geometry. Students will take a cumulative final at the end of the year on all skills learned.
Math 8
This course follows the 8th grade NYS NGLS. Students will build on concepts presented the previous year. These concepts are Algebra and Geometry. The goal is to prepare the 8th grade students for the Algebra class they will encounter in their first year of high school. Students will take a cumulative final at the end of the year on all skills learned.\
RTI for Math
Grade Level: 6-8
This course will help students to improve math skills. This course will target math deficits and help improve math comprehension. *Scheduled on a rotating basis.
Music Courses
Middle School Band
Grade Level: 6-8
Musical styles include; march, pop, classical transcriptions, novelty, holiday, solo, and contest. All standard band instruments plus electric/acoustic bass and piano/keyboard are welcome. Lessons are given in small groups during study halls or on a rotating basis depending on the student’s schedule once every four days. Grades are based on performances, rehearsals, lesson book progression, and scales throughout the school year. Beginners are welcome.
Middle School Choir
Grade Level: 6-8
Provides a variety of singing opportunities for students with limited formal choral experience. It is an introduction to vocal music at the JR High level and a preparatory experience for the performing choirs at Duanesburg. Vocal techniques and music reading are emphasized and students are given the opportunity to explore various musical sources and styles. Much emphasis is placed on providing a positive musical experience to students through classroom and concert performance. There are two concerts each school year, one in December and one in May.
General Music
Grade Level: 6-8
The purpose of this course is to create and develop students’ general musicianship, as well as foster a love and appreciation for music. We will be exploring a variety of musical topics and genres, as well as building musical literacy. Through learning to play instruments like the keyboard and guitar students will learn about elements of music, such as rhythm, harmony, melody, form and timbre. Performing, composing, and listening skills will also be developed throughout the course. Although there is exposure to many styles of music, students are encouraged to pursue their own personal tastes and make connections between their individual interests and those of their peers.
Science Courses
Science 7
Students will cover major branches of life science: cell physiology, microbiology, botany, zoology, human physiology, genetics, and ecology. The course is designed to nurture a greater awareness and appreciation of science through the excitement of first hand discovery, while integrating science skills, problem solving skills and study skills within the content and standards. Special attention will be given to lab skills and processing skills. It should be noted that the seventh graders will be taking the state exam at the end of their eighth grade year. Project based learning will be used throughout the year. Grades are achieved through points earned on assignments, class participation, tests, quizzes, and projects. Grades are calculated on a total point basis. Textbooks focus on listening skills, note taking, and organization. The books come with a CD version and can be accessed online.
Science 8
Students will cover major branches of physical science. Topics would include chemistry basics, physics basics, scientific method, careers in science, and technology. The course is designed to nurture a greater awareness and appreciation of science through the excitement of first hand discovery, while integrating science skills, problem solving skills and study skills within the content and standards. It should be noted that students will be taking a state exam in two parts this year. The first part is the performance portion to be scheduled in May, the written portion is after the performance portion in early June.
Social Studies Courses
Social Studies
This is the first year of the Jr. High American History course for 7th and 8th grades. Students will examine key events and explore the effects these events have on everyday life and people. The year will begin with a review of geography: location, place, interaction, movement, and region. Units of study will include Native Americans, Exploration and Colonization, War of Independence, the New Nation, the US Constitution, Manifest Destiny, and the Civil War.
Social Studies 8
Grade Level: 8
Eighth grade Social Studies is a focus on American History and is the second year in a two-year curriculum on US History and Geography. Students will learn about the time period beginning after the American Civil War and continuing through modern times. There is an increased emphasis on writing and the development of critical thinking skills, including work with document-based questions (DBQs) and essays. A variety of media are used in the classroom such as historical documents, video, and artifacts.
Technology Courses
Technology
Grade Level: 7-8
- Measurement – Students will learn how to read and use both the English and Metric Systems of measurement. They will use their measurement skills in building a project at the end of the unit.
- Electricity and Lasers – Students will learn about parallel and series circuits.
- The difference between electricity and electronics will be discussed. An explanation of lasers and their applications will be included in this unit. The students will use computer software to design and test electrical circuits, as well as laser circuits. Actual low voltage electrical circuits may also be built.
- Manufacturing Processes – Students will learn the steps in the manufacturing process and the specific types of processes used in changing raw or manufactured materials into finished products. Students will design, build and race their cars at the end of the unit.
- Technological Systems – Hydraulics and pneumatics systems are examined. The difference between open and closed systems are discussed. Students will look at how robotics incorporates into these systems. The unit culminates with the students building a robotic arm using the concepts of hydraulics and pneumatics.
- Environmental Technology – Students will learn about different energy sources such as geothermal, solar, wind power, fuel cells, battery power and more. Students will complete projects on solar vehicles and wind turbines
- Appropriate Resources and Problem Solving – Students will learn the seven technological resources and how they can be used. Students will learn the steps in problem solving. The final project for this unit is for students to design a city layout utilizing their resources, problem solving skills and budgeting.
- Transportation and Flight – The major topics include the differences between gasoline and diesel engines, how engines work, aerodynamics, and the difference between liquid and solid fuel rocket engines. Students will build their own rockets and then launch them outside on the soccer field.
- Drafting and Sketching – Students are introduced to sketching, drafting practices, and multi-view drawings. CAD will be introduced and used by students. There are many scale sketches in this unit.
- Construction – Students will examine large building structures such as bridges, dams, and skyscrapers as to how the four structural forces act upon the structures. Different types of building materials are discussed. This unit will also cover residential building. Students will build a bridge of their choice or a scale house to complete the unit.
World Language Courses
To earn a New York State High School diploma, students must earn at least one credit of HS world language. This can be done either by passing the local comprehensive exam at the end of checkpoint A in 7th and 8th grade language, or by passing a year of HS language course. Many colleges require a 2, 3 or 4 year language sequence.
Spanish 1
Grade Level: 8
Students are expected to be able to carry on a simple conversation in the Spanish Language. More complex vocabulary and sentence structure will be mastered through oral and written exercises. Students will earn one high school credit. This will fulfill the World Language minimum requirement for high school graduation.
High School Courses
*Please note- not all courses are offered yearly
Art Courses
Studio Art
Grade Level: 9-12 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: None
This class follows state and national standards for the arts. Students will explore different areas, such as drawing, painting, 3-D work with clay and plaster textile design, commercial art, and computer graphics. Course work will contain art criticism, art history, and multi-cultural references. A sketchbook is required.
2-Dimensional Studio (2D)
Grade Level: 10-12 Credit: .50 Prerequisite: Studio Art
This is an advanced studio class that will build on drawing and painting skills needed for further artistic development. There will be a focus on interpreting ideas and designs onto flat surfaces. Drawing, painting, printmaking, and life sized drawings will be among the projects covered. A sketchbook is required. Class size is limited to 15.
3-Dimensional Studio (3D)
Grade Level: 10-12 Credit: .50 Prerequisite: Studio Art, 2D Art.
This course is an advanced level course that explores several 3-dimensional media. Projects will include clay, (both hand building and wheel throwing), tile making, miniature village making, mobiles, and many other different styles of sculpture. A sketchbook is required. Class size is limited to 15.
Digital Photography
Grade Level: 10-12 Credit: .50 Prerequisite: Studio Art
This course is for students to become well rounded in the fundamentals of digital photography. Four areas of construction will be emphasized: How cameras work, how composition works, how lighting works, and how to use photo basic editing software. Students will work with their personal interests and beliefs to demonstrate their knowledge and expression within the medium of photography. Class size is limited to 15.
Industrial Design
Grade Level: 11-12 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: Studio Art, 2D Drawing/Painting, 3D
This is an advanced course directed to the career of Industrial Design. It is a hands-on advanced sculpture, graphic design, and painting course designed to meet the needs of an industrial designer. Students will learn how to design and execute drawings to final products, and reconstruct ideas that have already been designed and make them more user friendly and modern looking. A sketchbook is required.Max 15 students.
UHS Intro to Drawing
Grade Level: 11-12 Credit: 1 Prerequisites: Studio Art, 2D Art.
The UHS ART 128 Introduction to Drawing will allow students to utilize principles and elements of art. There will be an exploration of each topic as well as the use of art history through an analysis of works of art. Students can earn 3 course credits through SUNY Schenectady.
Ceramics
Grade Level: 9-12 Credit: 1 Prerequisites: None
This course provides an introductory exposure to the history of ceramics and a beginning level experience in the use of clay as a fine art medium. Forming techniques, surface development and glazing, and kiln firing practices will be introduced. Both the functional and sculptural ceramic traditions will be explored.
Printmaking
Grade Level: 9-12 Credit: 1 Prerequisites: None
Students will learn techniques of fine art printmaking, e.g. relief printing, monotype, intaglio, collagraph and collage. This course covers the nature of printmaking including: tools, inks, paper, plate preparation, registration, printing processes and qualities of prints. The goal is for students to gain the skills and confidence to produce multiple images by hand printing and on a press while exploring personal visual expression.
Business Courses
The study of business courses will prepare students for college and/or careers, and prepare them for making informed decisions in life. Knowledge of computers, careers, accounting, insurance, law, investments, and marketing are a sampling of concepts covered that will better prepare students for their future. Business courses are offered as part of career clusters or may be taken as electives.
Real Life Math
Grade Level: 10-12 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: None
This course is a specialized interdisciplinary business course related to the mathematical learning standards. The course is designed to prepare students for both college level business programs and to understand the financial world they will encounter during their lives. As a result of taking this course, students will be: knowledgeable on matters relating to the businesses that students will someday work for and/or possibly own; capable of managing their finances including banking, investing, checking, income taxes and credit; more knowledgeable and have a greater understanding of the benefits and risks associated with home ownership; less likely to overextend their credit and become a victim of fraudulent financial practices; able to understand how to properly manage their taxes and understand the need for paying taxes to support the many public goods and services provided by the government; better prepared to handle personal and business management matters throughout their lives.
Principles of Marketing
Grade Level: 9-12 Credit: .50 Prerequisites: None
Students can earn 3 college credits. In this course students are introduced to the important role that marketing plays in our economic system. We will look at the basic marketing functions that may be applied to a variety of retail or wholesale industry clusters including selling, advertising, and market research. Content revolves around the basic marketing function. Selling, promotion, pricing, purchasing, product, service, idea planning, and distribution is covered. Projects are developed to give students hands-on experience using these functions. When combined with other sequence options, marketing will provide a broad background for any area within business exploration.
Personal Finance
Grade Level: 9-12 Credit: .50 Prerequisites: None
This course answers many real life questions: Who takes a piece of your paycheck? What do you need to know about banking on and off line? What’s worth more for you- Working; College; Trade school? How to keep and manage your own money? How do you budget and prepare for your future? Students will have real world based projects focusing on topics such as banking, taxes, insurance, credit, loans, and fraud.
Intro to Business
Grade Level: 10-12 Credit: 1 Prerequisites: None
What is business? What careers stem from business? From Starting and Managing Your Own Business to Managing and leading large organizations, this introductory course gives students a broad overview of the contemporary world of business. Topics include: fundamentals of business, business ethics/social responsibility, competing in global markets, forms of business ownership, starting and growing a business, management, and marketing (product, distribution, promotion, and pricing strategies).
Entrepreneurship
Grade Level: 9-12 Credit: .50 Prerequisites: None
How do you turn an idea into a Business? Experience just that in this course! Focus is recognizing a business opportunity, starting a business, operating and maintaining a business. Students will be exposed to the development of critical thinking, problem solving, and innovation in this course as they will either be the business owner or individuals working in a competitive job market in the future. There will be an Integration of some accounting, marketing, business management, throughout projects in this course. Students will develop a business plan that includes structuring the organization, financing the organization, and managing information, operations, marketing, and human resources will be a focus in the course.
Succeeding in the World of Work
Grade Level: 9-12 Credit: .50 Prerequisites: None
Students in this course will ask themselves: What do you want to do with your life? How can you get there? This course focuses on exploration of self, career and the working world. Students will take time to reflect on their values, needs, wants and gain the knowledge and direction you need to make lifestyle, college and career choices. Students will use their skills to create a resume, and a follow up letter and develop job seeking skills such as online searching and interviewing skills. Students will discover how to be successful at work now and later.
Sports Management
Grade Level: 9-12 Credit: .50 Prerequisites: None
Students will develop and apply marketing knowledge as it relates to sports and events. They will learn why athletes are paid so high, why sports are on so many stations, why athletes are used as sponsors . . . and then devise real plans for our community to promote sports and events to improve our school. In addition, students will learn career possibilities available in the sports and entertainment fields. Students will take the reigns of their own sports team and create multiple projects that go with their created team. Students will be taking on the responsibility of making financial decisions about the sports teams.
English Courses
English 9: Enduring Issues and Cultural Values
Grade Level: 9 Credit: 1
This course develops the reading, writing, and literature skills that students will need to meet the Next Generation Learning and Regents Standards. This course will explore enduring issues across cultures and times and investigate what those enduring issues reveal about culture and values. The course will examine a variety of genres but will be built upon writing genre units. This course will introduce research and argument at the high school level and look at literature primarily through memoir, poetry, and shorter novels as products of cultures.
AP Seminar
Grade Level: 9 Credit: 1
AP Seminar is a foundational course that engages students in cross-curricular conversations that explore the complexities of academic and real-world topics and issues by analyzing divergent perspectives. Using an inquiry framework, students practice reading and analyzing articles, research studies, and foundational literary and philosophical texts; listening to and viewing speeches, broadcasts, and personal accounts: and experiencing artistic works and performances. Students learn to synthesize information from multiple sources, develop their own perspectives in research-based written essays, and design and deliver oral and visual presentations, both individually and as part of a team. Ultimately, the course aims to equip students with the power to analyze and evaluate information with accuracy and precision in order to craft and communicate evidence-based arguments. Students are required to take the AP exam in May.
AP Research
Grade Level: 10 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: AP Seminar
AP Research, the second course in the AP Capstone experience, allows students to deeply explore an academic topic, problem, issue, or idea of individual interest. Students design, plan and implement a yearlong investigation to address a research methodology, employing ethical research practices, and accessing, analyzing, and synthesizing information. Students reflect on their skill development, document their processes, and curate the artifacts of their scholarly work through a process and reflection portfolio. The course culminates in an academic paper of 4,000-5000 words ( accompanied by a performance, exhibit, or product where applicable) and a presentation with an oral defense. Students are required to take the AP exam in May.
English 10: Theories of Literature and Social Justice
Grade Level: 10 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: None
This course introduces the 10th grade students to a variety of authors and genres with a concentration on writing and grammar. Each work of literature will culminate in a writing assignment based on the New York State Regents mandates. This course will explore how political, social, judicial and economic structures limit or enable success in society. Additional full-length works will supplement the fiction and nonfiction literature. Vocabulary is taken from the context of the literature and is aligned with the Global History and Living Environment curriculum. Students participate in a required research assignment in conjunction with Global History.
English 11: American Issues in Society
Grade Level: 11 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: None
This course will examine issues that affect the lives of Americans. Through a variety of literary and informative texts, students will view a variety of perspectives. The course will prepare students to take the NYS Regents, while also collaborating with other courses students are taking.
AP English Language and Composition (AP English 11)
Grade Level: 11 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: None
This is an intense course which prepares students to take both the English Comprehensive Regents exam in June and the Advanced Placement (AP) English Language and Composition exam in May. Students will regularly be reading two novels simultaneously, one in class and the other selected from an outside reading list. The AP English Language and Composition course is designed to help students become skilled readers of prose written in a variety of periods, disciplines, and rhetorical contexts and to become skilled writers who can compose for a variety of purposes. By their writing and reading in this course, students should become aware of the interactions among a writer’s purposes, audience expectations, and subjects, as well as the way generic conventions and the resources of language contribute to effective writing. Students are required to take the AP exam in May.
English 12
Grade Level: 12 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: Successful completion of English 11.
This course will cover a variety of genres throughout the course of the school year. The goal of the course is to combine several of the previously offered senior electives into one comprehensive course. Students will examine several works of classic and contemporary literature. Students will incorporate writing for life after high school, creative writing, public speaking, and interview skills into the curriculum. There is also an emphasis on project based learning using 21st Century technology.
AP English Literature and Composition (AP English 12)
Grade Level: 12 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: Successful completion of Eng 11 and passing the regents exam
This course involves intensive reading, writing, and literary analysis at the collegiate level. Reading selections are of recognized literary merit, including both fiction and critical work. The course will include ample AP Exam review and preparation. Class size is limited to 15. This course offers dual-enrollment with the two UHS courses. Students are required to take the AP exam in May to obtain an AP designation for the course on their transcript.
Intro to Mass Media
Grade Level: 9-12 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: None
This course is an introduction to the world of journalism and media. Students will explore different forms of media, assessing credibility, and even conducting reporting of their own. Major texts include Doris A. Graber and Johanna Dunaway’s Mass Media and American Politics (Ninth Edition), Exploring Journalism and the Media by Lorrie Lynch.
UHS English 12
Grade Level: 12 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: Successful completion of Eng 11 and passing the regents exam
UHS 123 and 124 are two separate college-level English courses taught by a local instructor through SCCC. The student who enrolls in 123 (fall) will also take 124 (spring) unless extenuating circumstances prevent him/her from doing so.
English 123: College Composition
This course provides a foundation in academic discourse by developing effective communication skills with an emphasis on expository and persuasive writing; considerable oral presentation and reflection are required.
English 124: Literature and Composition
This course encourages students to use writing to explore the ways in which literature functions as an art form. Writing and research techniques introduced in ENG 123—College Composition—are strengthened and refined.
These courses equate with three (3) college credits received from SUNY Schenectady. These credits transfer to any institution that accepts SUNY credits.
RTI
Grade Level: 9-12 Credit: 0
This course will help students to improve reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. The course will target students’ vocabulary, comprehension of content, grammar, sentence structure, ability to construct paragraphs, essays, and, when applicable, reports. Research skills may be incorporated if necessary.
*Scheduled on a rotating basis.
Health & Physical Education Courses
HS Health
Grade Level: 10-12 Credit: .50
This class is a realistic view of ongoing issues in Health Education to best prepare the students for health issues they may face later in life. This class places strong emphasis on promoting healthy lifestyles through various health topics. Students will gain knowledge through a variety of learning styles such as projects, posters, individual and group presentations, lectures, class discussions, videos, and guided research. Students will be made aware of choices they will have to make regarding their health and safety. Topics that will be covered are; physical, mental, emotional and social health, communication skills, bullying, stress, goal setting, time management, substance use and abuse, smoking and other forms or tobacco, sexuality, parenting, unintentional/intentional injuries and diseases, personal hygiene, fitness, nutrition, and basic first aid skills. This class complies with both New York State and National Health Education Standards and is required for graduation.
HS Physical Education
Grade Level: 9-12 Credit: .50 Unit
Physical Education is a NYS mandated class that each student must pass each year that they attend middle and high school. PE classes meet every other day. The goal of Physical Education is to empower all students to sustain regular, lifelong physical activity as a foundation for a healthy, productive and fulfilling life. Through a variety of team and individual physical activities, students will acquire the knowledge and skills to maintain physical fitness, participate in a variety of physical activity, and maintain personal health and fitness.
Math Courses
Algebra I
Grade Level: 9-10 Credit: 1
This is the first of a three-year sequence which includes Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II. Algebra I will develop study skills and processes to be applied using a variety of techniques to solve problems in a variety of settings in accordance with the NGLS. Topics will include linear equations, quadratic and exponential functions, systems of equations, graphing, coordinate geometry, and data analysis. Students are required to take the Algebra I Regents exam.
Geometry
Grade Level: 9-11 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra I and passing the Algebra I Regents exam with a 65 or higher.
This is the second year in a sequential math program. It is built around the Next Generations Learning Standards and five process strands: problem solving, reasoning and proof, communication, connections, and representation as well as five content strands: number sense and operations, Algebra, Geometry, measurement, and statistics and probability. Topics covered include congruence, similarity, right triangles, Trigonometry, circles, expressing geometric properties with equations, and geometric measurement and dimensions. Students are required to take the Geometry Regents exam.
Algebra II
Grade Level: 10-12 Credits: 1 Prerequisite: Successful completion of Geometry and passing the Geometry Regents exam with a 65 or higher.
This is the third year in the sequential math program. It is built around the Next Generations Learning Standards and five process strands: problem solving, reasoning and proof, communication, connections, and representation as well as five content strands: number sense and operations, Algebra, Geometry, measurement, and statistics and probability. Topics include linear, quadratic, polynomial, exponential, logarithmic, rational and radical functions and relations, discrete mathematics (sequences and series, probability and statistics) and trigonometry. Students are required to take the Algebra II Regents.
UHS Pre-Calculus
Grade Level: 11-12 Credits: 1 Prerequisite: Successful completion of Common Core Algebra II and passing the Regents exam with a 65% or higher.
This is a course for the preparation of Calculus. Topics include (as time permits); functions (polynomial, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric), continuity, limits, inequalities, linear programming, matrix algebra, sigma notation, advanced algebra, Euclidean geometry, conic sections, and polar coordinates. Some special topics include the use of graphic calculators and advanced problem solving. Students can earn 4 course credits through SUNY Schenectady.
UHS Calculus
Grade Level: 12 Credits: 1 Prerequisite: Successful completion of UHS Pre-calculus and passing the final exam.
This class is comparable to a first semester calculus course for mathematics and science majors. Some topics included are limits, differentiation and its application, integration and its application, logarithms and exponential functions, inverse trigonometric functions, and hyperbolic functions. Students can earn 4 course credits through SUNY Schenectady.
Math 12
Grade Level: 12 Credits: 1 Prerequisite: Senior status
This is a fourth-year course designed to review and continue practicing mathematical skills. The course will include topics such as straight lines and linear functions, systems of linear equations and inequalities, matrices, mathematics of finance, sequences and series, probability, real numbers, area, perimeter, volume, and surface area of geometric figures, solving equations, graphing functions, basic differentiation. Students should have a scientific calculator.
UHS Statistics
Grade Level: 11-12 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra II
This course focuses on the following topics: descriptive statistics, an introduction to probability, random variables and probability distributions, the binomial and normal probability distributions, sampling, estimation, hypothesis testing, chi-square distributions, linear correlation and regression. Students can earn 3 course credits through SUNY Schenectady.
RTI for Math
Grade Level: 9
This course will help students to improve math skills. This course will target math deficits and help improve math comprehension. *Scheduled on a rotating basis.
Music Courses
HS Band
Grade Level: 9-12 Credit: .50 Prerequisite: None
Musical styles include march, pop, classical transcriptions, novelty, solo and contest. All standard band instruments plus electric/acoustic bass and keyboard are welcome. Lessons are given in small groups on a rotating basis once every 4 days during a regularly scheduled class or during study hall. Grades are based on performances, rehearsals and lessons throughout the school year.
HS Chorus
Grade Level: 9-12 Credit: .50 Prerequisite: None
The Choral Music program is designed to enhance the musical, creative and expressive qualities of all students. The high school choir class is designed for students to apply musical skills as they continue to create and experience music as a musical ensemble. A variety of music will be performed.
Introduction to Theater
Grade Level: 9-12 Credit: .50 Prerequisite: None
Students will create and perform theater pieces as well as improvisational drama. They will understand and use basic elements of theater in their characterizations, improvisation, and playwriting. Students will engage in individual and group theater related tasks, describe various roles and means of creating, performing and producing theater.
Music Theory & Composition
Grade Level: 9-12 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: Prior band, choir or other music knowledge
This course explores complex musical concepts and skills. Students will develop techniques and skills through listening, reading, composing, and performing. Topics include musical notation, ear training, construction of major and minor scales, and chords. During the year they will compose several pieces of music in different styles with increasing levels of difficulty.
Music Production and Recording
Grade Level: 9-12 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: None
This project based course focuses on the production and recording of music and sound. Topics include sound physics, microphone basics, software and hardware options, audio and MIDI multi-tracking, use of effects (EQ, compression, reverb, autotune, etc.), mastering, the roles of recording producers and engineers, CD artwork and design, and CD and digital distribution. We will be using a DAW(digital audio workstation) to record and edit audio, and students will work individually and collaboratively to create projects using this software.
Piano Techniques
Grade Level: 9-12 Credit: .50 Prerequisite: None
This music course is designed for beginning, intermediate or advanced keyboard techniques, music theory, note reading, and repertoire on an individual keyboard console. Students will learn the basics or achieve greater technical proficiency, interpretive skills, and good musicianship depending on their level while developing a widening repertoire.
String Techniques
Grade Level: 9-12 Credit: .50 Prerequisite: None
This music course is designed for students who would like to learn or expand their knowledge of any string instrument. Students will receive guidance and direction related to playing the string instrument of their choice and will learn many different styles, skills, and techniques required to become a successful string musician. Areas of concentration include: correct posture, note reading, aural skills, flat-picking, accompanying songs, rhythmic patterns, chord study, and finger picking styles, musical forms, and improvisation and performing experiences.
Jazz Improvisation
Grade Level: 9-12 Credit: .50 Prerequisite: None
This course focuses on the study of jazz music. Students will develop repertoire of jazz tunes, blues, Latin, etc. Through ear training, transcription, historical study, jazz theory, development of executive skills (technical facility), and self-analysis, students develop the tools to become creative problem solvers and jazz artists.
Music In Our Lives
Grades: 9-12 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: None
This course is designed to build and develop students’ general musicianship, as well as foster an appreciation for all types of music. Students will be exploring a variety of musical topics and genres, as well as building musical literacy. Major topics include: basic musicianship, guitar, piano, music theory, and music history. Students will study a variety of genres and styles of music and interact with them through different mediums including performing, composing, listening, and responding. Students are encouraged to pursue their own personal tastes and make connections between their individual interests and those of their peers.
Science Courses
Biology
Grade Level: 9-12 Credit: 1
This course builds on Standards 1 and 4 of the New York State Learning Standards for Mathematics, Science and Technology̧ which emphasizes science inquiry and learning biological concepts that include the similarity and diversity of life forms, molecular genetics, evolution, reproduction and development, biochemical processes, ecology including energy relationships, and human activities affecting the environment. As a prerequisite for admission to the Regents exam, students must have successfully completed 1200 minutes of laboratory experience with satisfactory written reports for each laboratory investigation. All students enrolled in Living Environment must be concurrently registered for Living Environment lab. Lab is an additional class above and beyond the Living Environment class.
Physical Setting/Earth Science
Grade Level: 9-12 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: Successful completion of Living Environment or Administrator’s permission.
This course addresses the content and process skills as applied to the rigor and relevance to be assessed by the Regents exam in Physical Setting/Earth Science. Focus will include understanding and demonstration of important relationships, processes, mechanisms, and applications of Earth Science concepts. Students will be able to demonstrate those explanations in their own words, exhibiting creative problem solving, reasoning, and informed decision making. All students enrolled in Earth Science must be concurrently enrolled in Earth Science lab. Lab is an additional class above and beyond the Earth Science class. Critical to understanding science concepts is the use of scientific inquiry to develop explanations of natural phenomena. As a prerequisite for admission to the Regents exam, students must have successfully completed 1200 minutes of laboratory experience with satisfactory written reports for each laboratory investigation. Prior to the written portion of the Regents exam, students will be required to complete a laboratory performance test.
Physical Setting/Chemistry
Grade Level: 10-12 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra I, Living Environment and Earth Science or teacher recommendation.
This course is the study of composition, structure and properties of matter, the changes which matter undergoes, and the energy involved in such changes. Topics include; subatomic particles, atomic structure, the Periodic Table, bonding, chemical formulas, nomenclature, chemical reactions, stoichiometry, acids/bases, electrochemistry, radioactivity, and organic chemistry. As a prerequisite for admission to the Regents exam, students must have successfully completed 1200 minutes of laboratory experience with satisfactory written reports for each laboratory investigation. All students enrolled in the Chemistry course must be concurrently enrolled in Chemistry lab. Lab is an additional class above and beyond the Chemistry class.
Contemporary Issues in Science
Grade Level: 10-12 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: Living Environment
This course explores the dynamic and evolving landscape of contemporary scientific issues that shape our world today. Students will engage with pressing topics such as climate change, biotechnology, artificial intelligence, public health, and ethical considerations in scientific research. Through a combination of lectures, discussions, and case studies, participants will critically analyze how scientific advancements impact society, the environment, and global policies.
Physical Setting/Physics
Grade Level: 11-12 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra I, Living Environment, Earth Science and Chemistry & passing the regents exams with a 65 or teacher approval.
This course involves the study of matter and energy. Topics include: linear motion, forces, vectors, projectiles, gravitation, uniform circular motion, momentum, energy, electrostatics, DC circuits, wave theory, and atomic and nuclear theories. There is a lab requirement. This course is required or recommended for many fields of continuing education. As a prerequisite for admission to the Regents exam, students must have successfully completed 1200 minutes of laboratory experience with satisfactory written reports for each laboratory investigation. All students enrolled in the Physics course must be concurrently enrolled in Physics lab. Lab is an additional class above and beyond the Physics class.
Forensics
Grade Level: 11-12 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: Successful completion of two years of high school science including Living Environment.
This is a full-year course which incorporates math, biology, chemistry, physics, and writing skills to frequently solve mysteries. Forensic Science will include hands-on activities, labs, interactive computer activities, other readings, worksheets, and PowerPoint Presentations on topics including; trace evidence including hair, fiber and pollen; time of death determination using insects and rigor mortis; blood typing and spatter analysis; DNA fingerprinting analysis; impression evidence including fingerprint, foot, dental, tire and tool, bone analysis and osteobiography; ballistics; glass analysis and more.
UHS Environmental Science
Grade Level: 11-12 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra I, Living Environment and Earth Science OR teacher approval.
This course introduces students to environmental concepts and issues from an interdisciplinary approach. Environmental issues and controversies will be explored from ecological, biological, social, economic, ethical, and governmental policy positions. Students will gain an understanding of the basic scientific method, tools, and techniques needed to understand and analyze environmental issues such as population growth, resource depletion, industrial and municipal pollution (air, water & trash), climate change, alternative energy and sustainability. Students are required to make several field trips to environmental sites as part of this course and will complete a project dealing with a current local environmental issue. Students can earn 3 course credits through SUNY Schenectady.
AP Biology
Grade Level: 11-12 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: Living Environment and Chemistry
In this course students will cultivate their understanding of biology through inquiry-based investigations as they explore the following topics: evolution, cellular processes-energy and communication, genetics, information transfer, ecology, and interactions. The course is based on four Big Ideas, which encompass core scientific principles, theories, and processes that cut across traditional boundaries and provide a broad way of thinking about living organisms and biological systems. The following are Big Ideas: 1) The process of evolution explains the diversity and unity of life, 2) Biological systems utilize free energy and molecular building blocks to grow, to reproduce, and to maintain dynamic homeostasis, 3) Living systems store, retrieve, transmit, and respond to information essential to life processes, 4) Biological systems interact, and these systems and their interactions possess complex properties. Students are required to take the AP exam in May.
Social Studies Courses
Regents Global History and Geography 9
Grade Level: 9 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: None
This course is the first part of a two-part course designed to show students common themes that recur across time and place over historical eras. Themes include cultural diffusion, migrations, regional empires, belief systems, trade and conflict. The curriculum provides students with the opportunity to explore what is happening in various regions and civilizations in the world at a given time. Students will also develop social science skills by working with a variety of historical documents. In addition, the course enables them to investigate issues and themes from multiple perspectives and make global connections and linkages that lead to in-depth understanding.
Regents Global History and Geography 10
Grade Level: 10 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: Successful completion of Global 9
As an extension of Global History 9, this course continues to examine the progression of events and ideas that have shaped the modern world. The course begins approximately 1200 CE, and concludes with an examination of contemporary issues such as globalization, hunger, population growth, the environment, and the impact of science and technology. The culmination of the Global History course is the administration of the Global History and Geography Regents examination to all students in June. Achievement of New York State established levels of competence on the exam is a high school graduation requirement.
AP World History
Grade Level: 10 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation, overall end of the year GPA of 85% or better in Global 9 and an 85% or better on the 9th grade Global Studies final exam.
This is a year-long course that covers the history of humanity from the 1200’s to the modern day. Students will be expected to fulfill the requirements of the Regents syllabus in World History in addition to taking the AP exam in World History administered by the College Board (fee). Major areas of study will include the interaction of human groups across time through trade, war, and climate shifts. Particular attention will be paid to the development of major world religions and gender roles that developed in various societies. Students are required to take the AP exam and are responsible for the payment of the examination fee. The exam will be held in May. After the AP exam, students will use the final month of the school year to prepare for the New York State Regents examination in World History and Geography. Students are required to take the AP exam in May.
Regents U.S. History and Government
Grade Level: 11 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: Successful completion of Global 10 or AP World History United States History is a narrative of a great experiment in representative democracy. The basic principles and core values expressed in the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution became the guiding ideals for the nation’s civic values. The curriculum is organized into units that examine the political, social, economic, and cultural heritage of the United States. Students will be expected to read and analyze historical documents and write document-based essays/thematic essays during the year in preparation for the Regents exam. The Regents exam will be based on the content column in this core curriculum and is required for all students.
AP US History
Grade Level: 11 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation, review of writing samples, an average of 85% or better for the first three quarters in social studies and an overall end of year GPA of 85%.
This is an in-depth college level course designed for students with a special interest and ability in U.S. History and other Social Science disciplines. It is ideally suited for, although not limited to, the student who plans to major in Social Science in college. It is a full-year college introductory course in U.S History from colonial times to the present. The course will provide an examination of U.S. political institutions and behavior, public policy, social and economic change, diplomacy and international relations, as well as cultural and intellectual development in U.S. history. Essay writing is essential and emphasized. Students will be required to analyze historical evidence and primary sources throughout the course. While students receive 1 unit of credit for New York State, it should be noted that this course consists of two half-year courses which yield six credit hours at SCCC. Students can choose to take this course just for college credit, however, if a student wants the AP designation on their transcript, they are required to take the AP exam in May.
UHS Sociology
Grade Level: 11-12 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: None
Sociology is the study of society and how it functions. Students will study the fundamentals of sociology including topics in deviance, social class, power, gender, race and family. The course will also investigate the problems facing the United States and other nations in these areas.
There is a final exam in June. This is a three-credit course offered through SUNY Cobleskill.
Participation in Government
Grade Level: 12 Credit: .50 Prerequisite: Successful completion or concurrent with American History.
Participation in Government (P.I.G.) will emphasize the nature of the citizen’s role in a democracy and will provide students with tools and techniques necessary to fulfill that role. Emphasis will be placed on defining and understanding responsible citizenship, civic engagement, rights and responsibilities, public policy issues, and methods of participation in the public policy-making process. The course will draw on life experience beyond the classroom and school and will be related to problems or issues addressed by students at the local, state, national and global levels. **Course is required for graduation.
Economics
Grade Level: 12 Credit: .50 Prerequisite: Successful completion or concurrent with American History.
This course will stress the basic economic concepts and understanding which all people need to function effectively and intelligently both as citizens and participants in the economy of the United States and the world. Specifically, students will learn the basic theories behind the operation of a market economy (capitalism) and will understand and be able to evaluate the government’s role in regulating the economy. Students will also study consumer and financial literacy related topics such as savings, investing, budgeting, and the use of credit. The course will emphasize a rational decision-making process which can be applied to all economic decisions. **Course is required for graduation.
AP United States Government & Politics
Grade Level: 12 Credit: .50 Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation,an average of 85% or better for the first three quarters in social studies and an 85% or better on the US History and Government Regents.
This course will give students an analytical perspective on government and politics in the United States. It includes both the study of general concepts used to interpret U.S. government and politics and the analysis of specific examples. It also requires familiarity with the various institutions, groups, beliefs, and ideas that constitute the U.S. government and politics. Students will become acquainted with the variety of theoretical perspectives and explanations for various behaviors and outcomes. Students successfully completing this course will:
- know important facts, concepts, and theories pertaining to U.S. government and politics
- understand typical patterns of political processes and behavior and their consequences (including the components of political behavior, the principles used to explain or justify various government structures and procedures, and the political effects of these structures and procedures)
- be able to analyze and interpret basic data relevant to U.S. government and politics (including data presented in charts, tables, and other formats)
- be able to critically analyze relevant theories and concepts, apply them appropriately, and develop their connections across the curriculum.
- be familiar with and analyze 9 required foundational documents and 15 required landmark supreme court cases.
The following topics will be covered: constitutional underpinnings of United States Government; political beliefs and behaviors; political parties, interest groups and mass media; instructions of national government; and Civil Rights and Civil Liberties. Students can choose to take this course just for college credit, however, if a student wants the AP designation on their transcript, they are required to take the AP exam in May.
UHS Anthropology
Grade Level: 11-12 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: None
This course is an introduction to the discipline of anthropology as a whole. It presents students with an introduction and overview of the four major sub-fields of the subject: archaeology, biological anthropology, cultural anthropology, and linguistics. In this class emphasis will be placed on the holistic nature of the discipline. Students will explore various research methods of the 4 major disciplines. Students will explore current and past cultures around the world with an emphasis on regional differences in cultural practices. Students will engage in archaeological practices used by professionals in the field as they explore past human civilizations and the development of society. Students will explore theories of evolution and human anatomy as it relates to biological anthropology. Students will explore the development of language as well as compare the differences of regional vocabulary and lexicon.Students can earn 3 college credits through SUNY Cobleskill.
Women’s & Gender Studies
Grade Level: 10-12 Credit: 0.50 Prerequisite: None
This course offers an introduction to Women’s and Gender Studies, an interdisciplinary academic field that explores critical questions about the meaning of gender in society. The primary goal of this course is to familiarize students with key issues, questions and debates in Women’s and Gender Studies scholarship, both historical and contemporary. Gender scholarship critically analyzes themes of gendered performance and power in a range of social spheres, such as law, culture, education, work, medicine, social policy and the family.
Social Ethics
Grade Level: 10-12 Credit: .50 Prerequisite: None
This course explores critical analysis of classical and contemporary theories of justice, including discussion of present-day applications. Topics include affirmative action, income distribution, the role of markets, debates about rights (human rights and property rights), arguments for and against equality, and dilemmas of loyalty in public and private life. The course invites learners to subject their own views on these controversies to critical examination. The principal readings for the course are texts by Aristotle, John Locke, Immanuel Kant, John Stuart Mill, and John Rawls. Other assigned readings include writings by contemporary philosophers, court cases, and articles about political controversies that raise philosophical questions.
AP Psychology
Grade Level: 11-12 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: None
Advanced Placement Psychology is designed to introduce students to the systematic and scientific study of the behavior and mental processes of human beings and other animals. Students are exposed to the psychological facts, principles, and phenomena associated with each of the major subfields within psychology. They also learn about the ethics and methods psychologists use in their science and practice. This course will offer students the opportunities to learn about the explorations and discoveries made by psychologists over the past century. Students will get the chance to assess some of the differing approaches adopted by psychologists, including biological, behavioral, cognitive, humanistic, psychodynamic, and sociocultural perspectives. Students will also learn the basic skills of psychology research and develop critical thinking skills. Students are required to take the AP exam in May.
History vs Hollywood
Grade Level: 10-12. Credit: .5 Prerequisite: None. This course is an examination of the accuracy of popular Hollywood historical films. The course will involve the study of significant historical events, and how those events are represented in the movies. History vs. Hollywood will teach the student to develop an understanding of the relationship between cinema (the movies) and American popular culture. The class will study seven to nine films throughout the semester. The emphasis of the course is on research and developing critical thinking skills. The goal of History vs. Hollywood is to have students come away with a deep understanding of historical events that are represented in the selected films. All films are rated PG-13 or R. A SIGNED parental consent form, indicating parental approval, must be turned in before any of the films are viewed.You will come away from the class with a better understanding of these specific events in the films along with improved research skills. We will also begin the course by looking at film techniques used by directors and screenwriters and how and why they “Hollywood-ize” certain historical events in their films.
Senior Seminar
Grade Level: 12 Credit: .5 Prerequisites: College Bound Seniors
The College Admissions Process has often been identified as the most complex responsibility facing parents and seniors in high school. This course is designed to inform students and their parents of the college process. We will answer the basic questions of where to go to college and the differences between them, all the way up to the Index to College Majors. Students will be given time to work on college applications, scholarship opportunities, and learn about college life. There is no single correct way to approach the process, but knowing what is expected will help. The course is a half year class that is graded by Pass or Fail. Attendance, applications, and participation will be the basis for passing the class. This will be a half year course for any college bound senior.
Technology Courses
Basic Electricity
Grade Level: 9-12 Credit: 1 Prerequisite:None Years Offered: Even Years
Electricity is used everywhere from small engines and cell phones to lights in our home. In this course students will learn the basics about electricity and electronics that we use in our everyday lives. Topics of study are DC current, wiring, soldering, car audio, generators, amplifiers, speakers, cell phone repair, batteries and chargers.
Design and Drawing for Production (DDP) (Introduction to Engineering Design)
Grade Level: 9-12 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: None Years Offered: Every Year
This course emphasizes the development of a design. Students dig deep into the engineering design process, applying math, science, and engineering standards to hands-on projects. Students work both individually and in teams to design solutions to a variety of problems using 3D modeling software, 3D printers, CNC laser and milling machines.
UHS Introduction to Computer Science with Multimedia
Grade: 10-12 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra I Years Offered:EveryYear
This Siena College dual-enrollment course is a broad introduction to a variety of fundamental topics in computer science through the theme of multimedia. Using the Python programming language, students write programs that operate on images, sounds, and animations. Students are also introduced to important computer science topics including data representation, computer organization, history and societal impact of computing, and artificial intelligence. Students taking this course at the high school can earn 3 college credits for a (flat) $200 tuition rate.
Digital Media Production
Grade Level: 9-12 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: None Years Offered: Every Year
The class is organized like a professional production studio. Each student has a role and is responsible for the associated aspects of producing a daily news show for broadcast at Duanesburg High School. Roles include:
- Anchor (On-air)
- Reporter (On-air)
- Engineer
- Editor
- Writer
Construction and Property Management
Grade Level: 9-12 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: None Years Offered: Odd years
This course provides the study of light frame construction techniques, which covers common residential construction materials, components, and systems as related to wood frame structures. Students will learn about residential structures by building models and completing a full-sized building project to study the applications of various construction techniques. The residential construction process will be analyzed from site planning to finish construction. The course may also include editing related specifications and determining cost estimates. Students will experience working outside through the end of the semester. Activities include blueprint reading, masonry work, floor, walls, interior and exterior finishing, and roof framing. Students will work on a group project to apply their construction skills.
Introduction to Fine Carpentry
Grade Level: 9-12 Credit: .50 Prerequisite: None Years Offered: Even Years
This course is an introductory half-year course that is designed to offer a broad-based view of how people change or process wood materials. Students will complete a variety of projects using various tools and machines to teach them the fundamentals of material processes. This course provides a valuable experience to students interested in bettering hands-on working skills. The entire semester will be spent in the technology shop, building and manufacturing projects.
Advanced Fine Carpentry
Grade Level: 9-12 Credit: .50 Prerequisite: Intro to Fine Carpentry Years Offered: Even Years
This course is designed to be an extension course for students who have completed Introduction to Woodworking. Students will work on more advanced types of projects to build on their woodworking skills and experiences. Complete plans, drawings, and material lists will be required from students for each project. A lab fee could be required depending on the choice of materials that the students choose for projects.
Introduction to Robotics
Grade Level: 10-12 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: None Years Offered: Odd Years
This course covers the basics of the ever-growing field of robotics. From programming to metal working, from robot-design to automated systems, this full-year course offers students a hands-on look at robotics. Students will build an automated fish hatchery along with designing and building a variety of robotic vehicles. Topics of study will be: basic metalworking, welding, programming, wiring, electricity/electronics, sensor integration, and automation. This course is open to all students.
Transportation Systems: Energy & Power
Grade Level: 9-12 Credit: 1 Prerequisites: None Years Offered: Even Years
Transportation Systems: Energy & Power Grade Level: 9-12 Credit: 1 This is an introductory course designed to familiarize students with the range of methods used to move people, products and materials across the land, ocean and sky. This course will meet every day for the entire school year and will be mainly hands-on projects. Projects may include Model airplanes, RC rock crawlers, RC cars, RC Boats, hovercrafts and pedal cars, these are just some examples. Students will investigate a variety of energy and propulsion systems. Students will gain design experience and insight into a variety of transportation vehicles/systems by constructing practical working models. Students will utilize the principles of design to optimize their transport vehicles. Students will learn the fundamentals of 2-stroke and 4-stroke engine theory and will disassemble, troubleshoot and reassemble small engines. Successful completion will yield a functioning engine. Depending on time and circumstance, students may be able to bring in their own small engines to perform troubleshooting and maintenance.
Introduction to Engineering
Grade Level: 10-12 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: None Years Offered: Odd Years
Students will learn the basics of the engineering design process and then utilize the process to complete four (4) projects throughout the year. Projects may include creation of an automatic watering garden, a battery powered model airplane, and other hands-on experiences that instruct in the basics of the engineering design process and basic engineering principles. Topics to be covered: Simple machines, electricity, Pneumatics and hydraulics, Design process, and Kinematics.
World Language Courses
To earn a New York State High School diploma, students must earn at least one credit of HS world language. This can be done either by passing the local comprehensive exam at the end of checkpoint A in 7th and 8th grade language, or by passing a year of HS language course. Many colleges require a 2, 3 or 4 year language sequence.
Spanish Culture
Grade Level: 9-12 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: None
This class explores Spanish/Hispanic holidays, artists, sports figures, business people, politicians, and educators that have shaped and are shaping Hispanic culture in our country. The students will also study the development of the Spanish language and its world influence. Other topics include: history, architecture, art, literature, geography, and the influences of the Arabic, Christian and Jewish culture, foods throughout the Spanish-speaking world and other topics that may be of interest to the students.
This course is not offered on a regular basis.
Spanish II
Grade Level: 9 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: Spanish I
Presents a more complex structure of basic Spanish and expands the cultural themes of the first level. By the time students complete Spanish II, they will have acquired a command of the key vocabulary and structure necessary for personal communications as well as an appreciation of the culture of the Spanish-speaking world. For students who successfully completed Spanish I. After successfully completing Spanish II, students will have earned two Foreign Language credits. All 9th grade students take this course.
Spanish III
Grade Level: 10 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: Overall average of 75% in Spanish II
This class provides students with opportunities to review, deepen their understanding of Spanish as they sharpen their communication and comprehension skills, and enrich their vocabulary through realistic dialogues and a variety of activities. At the completion of this year, students will take a comprehensive exam. This class is for students who successfully completed Spanish II.
UHS Spanish IV
Grade Level: 11 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: Successful completion of Spanish III
Spanish 4 is for students who have completed three years of high school Spanish. This course reinforces fundamental Spanish skills through a variety of reading, writing, listening, and oral exercises. The course also expands students’ knowledge of the civilizations, cultures and customs of Spanish speaking people. Students will be exposed to the works of contemporary writers of the Spanish-speaking world. Spanish will be the language of instruction and students are expected to participate actively. Students can earn 3 course credits through SUNY Schenectady.
UHS Spanish V
Grade Level: 12 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: Successful completion of Spanish IV
UHS Spanish V is for those students who have completed four years of high school Spanish. This course develops intermediate Spanish skills through a variety of reading, writing, listening, and oral exercises. Additionally, it further expands students’ knowledge of the cultures and customs of the contemporary Spanish–speaking world. Spanish will be the language of instruction and students are expected to participate actively. They will be assigned compositions and videos to be viewed outside of class. There will be an emphasis on readings, short compositions, and class discussions. Students can earn 3 course credits through SUNY Schenectady.