Course Selections for Twelfth Grade (2023-24) – Senior Elective Choices

Computers, mobile devices and other technological advances play an increasingly important role in all areas of life. The overall goal of the computer science and technology department is to develop student’s computer literacy and technology proficiency with cutting edge devices, software, tools and social media in order to prepare them for the high-tech workforce they will soon be entering. Computers are used in just about every field, and successful careers will depend on employees’ ability to work within technological frameworks. With the proliferation of mobile devices, computational tools and the “always on, always connected” mentality, we must teach students to comprehend, manage and find balance in their lives.

In preparing students for our ever-evolving technological workforce, we encourage and often require students to use technology in their school classes to research, write papers and projects, compute mathematical formulas and perform scientific research, and create presentations and other computational artifacts. We also endeavor to build good digital citizens who are respectful of others, take technology usage seriously, achieve the appropriate balance with respect to digital experiences and leverage technology for the greater good and benefit to society.

In addition to its focus on technology integration across disciplines, the computer science department provides a robust offering with multiple classes, clubs and opportunities to learn about computer science and technology as a core focus.

There are multiple entry points for students to begin study and multiple paths: for example, programming languages and constructs and the study of technology and its impact in society. Students learn skills, use tools and build apps and applications that solve real world problems. They will also have the opportunity to submit projects to numerous expos and competitions.

All courses in the computer science department are electives. Teacher recommendation and administrative approval are required.

AP Computer Science A

This course is equivalent to a semester-long, college-level course in computer science. The course introduces students to computer science with fundamental topics that include problem solving, design strategies and methodologies, organization of data (data structures), approaches to processing data (algorithms), analysis of potential solutions, and the ethical and social implications of computing. The course emphasizes both structural and object-oriented problem solving and design using the Java language. The AP Computer Science A course includes a minimum of 20 hours of hands-on structured lab experience to engage students in individual or group problem solving. Prerequisite: AP Computer Science Principles. Teacher recommendation required for enrollment.

Machine Learning

In this Machine Learning class (ML) students will take a deep dive into the world of AI and Machine Learning and will understand the “magic” that’s behind chatGPT, image recognition, and more. Students will work in Python and will be introduced to various types of machine learning - supervised ML, unsupervised ML, and reinforcement learning. By the end of the class students will have a portfolio of projects that will include Regression Models, Classification Models, neural networks, Sentiment analysis, Clustering, and Natural Language Processing.

All courses in the engineering department are electives. Teacher recommendation and administrative approval are required.

Robotics

Robotics commences with a historical timeline followed by group exercises aimed at improving team mettle. In parallel to learning electromechanical solutions to industrial and societal challenges, students will work together on their prototypes for the FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC). Throughout the year, students learn woodworking and machining, computer-assisted design, and develop the skills they need to become science and technology leaders. Students will design robots to turn around in tight spaces, grab objects and release them in different locations. Each year in FTC, different rules and challenges require uniquely designed robots. Each year in Robotics, students get to experience enthusiasm and excitement around a course full of structure.

The business world offers many opportunities for successful careers. The Business Department courses seek to educate students with real world practical knowledge and skills that they can apply to internships and careers, as well as to get them “college ready” for future business courses. Classes consist of lecture/discussion along with assignments and projects (which are the primary assessment tool) that apply learnings to real-world business scenarios. In addition to learning specific topics, for example Virtual Enterprise, Investing, and Marketing students will also learn important business skills such as teamwork and presenting. This is especially seen in the various College Accounting courses offered as well. There is strong use of technology including Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint, as well as QuickBooks for accounting. Many of the business courses can be taken for college credit.

All business courses are electives. We have partnered with several local colleges to offer courses for college credits.  Students may enroll in these courses at a significantly reduced cost and earn college credits. Teacher recommendation and administrative approval are required.

Advanced College Accounting II

This course provides a thorough and comprehensive look into Managerial Accounting. Students will explore business concepts and methods used to report managerial performance information to internal users and managers to assist in making sound business decisions in managing the firm.  Topics include product costing methodologies, cost behavior, operational and capital budgeting, and performance evaluation. Students can earn 3 college credits.

College Investing/Real Estate

We cover Investing in semester one and real estate Investing in semester two. The investing course includes topics that every investor should know, including stocks, bonds, mutual funds, options, hedge funds, private equity, commodities and more.  Current events will play an important role in class discussions.  Every student will participate in a simulated stock market game.  The real estate course covers topics such as researching and finding properties, building a portfolio, financial analysis, legal issues and more.  Students can earn three credits for each course, for a total of six credits.

College Marketing/Entrepreneurship

We cover Marketing in semester one and Entrepreneurship in semester two. The Marketing course focuses on the central role that marketing plays in the business process.  The key areas of study are the 4 P’s: product, price, promotion and place.  We have lots of group projects as well as individual and group presentations. The entrepreneurship course covers the fundamentals of starting a new business from idea generation to financing. Students will develop an idea for a new business product or service and write a comprehensive business plan.  Students can earn 3 credits for each course, for a total of six credits. This course will help students to become comfortable with technology tools necessary for success in the business world. As such, laptops are required for this class. Teacher recommendation and administrative approval are required for enrollment.

College Virtual Enterprise

Virtual Enterprise is a live global business simulation in which students create and manage a virtual business. The program provides opportunities to develop valuable 21st-century skills in entrepreneurship, global business, problem solving, communication, personal finance and technology. VE replicates all the functions and demands of real businesses in both structure and practice. As “employees” of the virtual business, students experience the expectations of the workplace and are accountable for the firm’s performance. Students can earn three college credits. Teacher recommendation and administrative approval are required for enrollment.

The study of art is the exploration of human creativity. Art students leave the classroom, not only with an appreciation of art, but also with a sense of empowerment because they have learned to become creative, original thinkers. Students see, feel, think, make aesthetic choices, explore a variety of media and self-evaluate as part of the studio experience. Higher level courses explore diverging interests. The search for original concepts, the integral development of technique and observational skills, and the cultivation of a respect for the elements of art and principles of design all foster a sense of limitless artistic possibilities for our students.

The curriculum will strive to be extensive and varied. There are courses for both non-art major students and those who seek to specialize. Our introductory classes will include foundational multi-media experiences in the elements of art (Elements: Line, Shape, Space, Color, Texture, and Pattern) and principles of design (Principles: Balance, Unity, Rhythm, Proportion, Color Interaction and Relationships). Specialized classes will include Pre-Advanced Placement and Advanced Placement Studio Art, Fashion Design, and Architecture.

Our curriculum accommodates students’ varied interests and art industry trends, providing our students with the ability to engage higher-level problem-solving techniques and develop fine-tuned technical skills. Upon completion, they will be able to produce professional grade portfolios and meet the admissions criteria of the most selective art schools. Our many goals will be achieved by an integration of four components in every course offered in the art curriculum: the Creative Component, the Critical Component, the Cultural and Historical Component, and the Artistic Philosophical Component. Courses in the various areas are sequential in nature. Assessment is accomplished teacher evaluation and student participation.

All courses in the Art Department are electives. Enrollment requires teacher and administrative approval.

Pre College-Portfolio Development (non AP)

Portfolio Development is a new course offered at NSHAHS. We are trying to bridge the gap between HS and College by preparing students for the next step in an art career. Students will create a series of new works that span from drawing, painting and mixed media, showcasing a core understanding of a variety of materials as well as the courage to experiment and break the traditional boundaries of each medium and subject matter. Our objective is to provide students with a professional portfolio that can offer admission to high-ranking universities with scholarships. In addition to creating art, our Portfolio Development course will prepare students to become fluent in the art language. Through artist statements, participating in group critiques, and photographing and digitizing artworks, students will become familiar and comfortable in speaking about not only their own art, but others’ works as well. Prerequisite: Studio Art II, or AP Art I.

Studio Art II

Studio Art 2 is a second-year course that provides an opportunity for students to expand on the drawing and painting concepts introduced in Studio Art 1. Emphasis is placed on a deeper understanding of design principles, drawing techniques and painting skills leading to the development of abilities that are necessary for advanced art courses. Students are given more in depth problems to solve creatively while becoming more adept through a broad exposure to various media. Students will advance both technically and conceptually, preparing them for the next level of art at North Shore. Alongside refining their artistic skill set, the students will learn about 21st century art and have the opportunity to visit contemporary art institutions. Prerequisite: Studio Art I.

AP Art II

Advanced Placement Studio Art is a distinctive and rigorously demanding course of study which teaches students how to elevate their creative process, critical thinking, investigative skills and ‘student voice’ in preparation of effectively completing The College Board requirements of the AP Studio Art Exam administered at the end of the school year.  The AP Studio Art Exam consists of a student developed body of successful artwork which will be submitted in a portfolio. The culmination of the student produced artwork during the school year is aimed at targeting and exploring their chosen sustained investigation which was selected in AP Art 1.  The investigation focuses on a body of work based on a “Central Theme" and focuses on a process of INVESTIGATION, GROWTH and DISCOVERY. Students are required to attend to their sketchbooks and continuously explore and research their Art Assignment topics so that they may develop the vital skills needed to successfully complete their investigation. Prerequisite: AP Art I.

Fashion Design I

The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the world of fashion design. They will acquire knowledge and skills related to the principles of fashion illustration and design by utilizing a range of media and a variety of techniques to create versatility in their work.  Students will learn the proportions of the fashion (croquis) figure. They will learn through the elements and principles of design as they pertain to fashion, design terminology for apparel and recognition of design styles are also included as components of the course. Students will be required to demonstrate creative use of inspiration and design experimentation through various projects and a design journal and will be assessed on their knowledge of terminology, styles and applicability of the elements and principles. Museum and fashion show trips are planned.

Fashion Design II

This design course further encompasses the fashion design process from inspiration through production learned in Fashion Design 1. Focus is on developing the fashion silhouette and fabric rendering techniques using a variety of materials. Students will study the interconnectivity between fabric weight/texture and garment representation based on rendered croquis. Principles and creative standards common to all design fields will be introduced. Projects will deal with pragmatic and creative issues. Assignments are progressive so that students will have the opportunity to establish their professional identity. They will utilize a range of media and a variety of techniques to create versatility in their work and portfolio.  Additionally, sewing basics will be introduced to students. Students will be exposed to how a historical timeline of fashion is reflective of society. This will help to illustrate the ways in which material use has been affected by the technological changes in manufacturing.  Museum, fabric store trips, and fashion show trips are planned.  Prerequisite: Fashion I.

Fashion Design III

This design course further encompasses the fashion design process from inspiration through production learned in Fashion Design 2. Focus is on draping, sculpting and 3D textile design and exploration. Projects will deal with pragmatic and creative issues. Assignments are progressive so that students will continue to have the opportunity to establish their professional identity and brand. They will utilize a range of media and a variety of techniques to create versatility in their work and portfolio.  Museum, fabric store trips, and fashion show trips are planned.   This course aims to broaden and deepen the students' awareness of fashion as a discipline as they work on completing a portfolio for presentations to colleges. Prerequisite: Fashion Design II.

Architecture I

This is a course in which basic fundamentals of architecture are examined and perfected.  While design will be the main emphasis for this level and the student should have a good background in basic mathematics. Students will learn about the design process and explore the architectural concepts of space, form, function, and technology. Students will learn how to create mechanical and freehand drawings, draw in 1, 2 and 3pt perspective, interpret and create floor plans, create orthographic and isometric drawings, understand drawing to scale and read blueprints, construct scale models, consult with groups on various approaches to design problems, address environmental concerns and conservation efforts, learn to render architectural styles, explore the history of architecture, reference the internet for architectural sources and create computer renderings using CAD. Trips to or visits by working architects are anticipated.

Architecture II

This course is for the student who has completed the requirements for Introduction to Architecture 1 and plans possibly to pursue his or her architectural studies as part of their college education. Students will reinforce skills they learned in the earlier course and focus in on design techniques, as well as review and study the history of architecture, build scale models from plans and build vertically, understand shape, convex and concave, space, light, acoustics, circulation, enclosure, boundaries, path, threshold and portal, understand the use of planes and their relationship to patterns, consider issues dealing with commercial/ public space, render hand illustrations using a variety of media, become aware of the need for conservancy and the need for buildings that reflect respect for environments and future generations and  learn about the history and evolving technologies of modern architecture. Emphasis will switch to vertical construction and consideration of public space vs. private space as well as architectural production as a process of analysis, critique and synthesis. Students will study architectural design as a mode of cultural communication and imaginative experimentation. They will work at a variety of scales, with a variety of techniques in a variety of research situations while being asked to comprehensively address architectural problems. This course aims to broaden and deepen the students' awareness of architecture as a discipline as they work on preparing a portfolio for presentations to colleges.  Prerequisite Architecture I.

Architecture III

Students will reinforce skills they learned in the earlier courses and focus on design techniques, as well as review and study the history of architecture. Emphasis will switch to conceptual design and planning on larger urban scales. Students will study Urban planning, also known as town planning, city planning, regional planning, or rural planning, is a technical and political process that is focused on the development and design of land use and the built environment, including air, water, and the infrastructure passing into and out of urban areas, such as transportation, communications, and distribution networks and their accessibility. They will work at a variety of scales, with a variety of techniques in a variety of research situations while being asked to comprehensively address architectural problems. This course aims to broaden and deepen the students' awareness of architecture as a discipline as they work on completing a portfolio for presentations to colleges.  Prerequisite: Architecture II

Speaking another language opens up another world. Language is not only a medium of communication; it is also a means of gaining understanding of the customs, thoughts, and beliefs of the people who speak it. Proficiency in a foreign language is a valuable practical tool in this era of global telecommunications. Fluency in the written and spoken word is a powerful life skill, and our goal is to provide this tool to our students.

The methodology of teaching in the department is audio-lingual, and the teachers attempt to communicate with the students almost exclusively in the target language. We encourage the creative use of the language. A “no-fault” approach is utilized in the early curriculum. Students converse without worrying about their conversations being micro-dissected for errors. In this way, they become comfortable in the initial stages of mastery in oral recitation.

Each of our courses places emphasis on the acquisition of appropriate levels of excellence in speaking, writing, listening, and reading. We offer a diversity of experiences in the literature of the target languages. Readings are drawn from literary (stories, essays and novels) and non-literary texts (articles) texts.

Assessments include: midterm and final exams, at least two exams per marking period, quizzes, oral projects, listening comprehension activities, on-the spot speaking responses and evaluations of articles concerning international events, national issues, local events, entertainment and sports in foreign language newspapers for upper level classes. We encourage our students to become proficient in all aspects of communication of the specific language studied. The goal of the faculty is to accomplish this purpose with a curriculum that is progressively more challenging with each additional year of study.

All courses in the World Language Department are electives. Students are encouraged to pursue their study of foreign language if they have completed advanced levels in previous years. Teacher recommendation and administrative approval are required for AP and college level courses.

French IV

The students enrolled in this course master topical vocabulary, grammar, idioms, and practical expressions on an advanced level. They discuss a variety of contemporary themes gathered from authentic materials, including novels, films, short stories, articles and newspaper articles. Literary vocabulary is acquired. This course emphasizes aural comprehension and oral proficiency. These students will be eligible for Adelphi University college credits upon completion of the course.

Spanish IV

The students enrolled in this course master topical vocabulary, grammar, idioms, and practical expressions on an advanced level. They discuss a variety of contemporary themes gathered from authentic materials, including novels. Newspaper article analysis assigned weekly and written paragraphs and essays submitted. This course emphasizes aural comprehension and oral proficiency. Those students wishing to enroll can take this course for college credit from Adelphi University. Three college credits may be earned. (Adelphi Spanish 122)

Spanish V

A communicative approach will be continued of Spanish language mastery including in- depth literary analysis and essay and paragraph writing. The students will acquire more advanced communicative skills in multiple tenses with extensive vocabulary base as well as increased synonym and antonym acquisition. Cultural information will be accessed and discussed, Spanish newspapers read weekly, and novels, essays and poetry will be studied. Literary vocabulary is taught. These students will be eligible for Adelphi University college credits upon completion of the course.