North Country School Curriculum Overview

North Country School Course Offerings

Table of Contents In this document, North Country School’s course offerings are organized by subject area.

For each grade level, subject area summaries include: course description, special units, supporting materials, and objectives & skills. (Overviews of all subject areas, organized by grade level, are also available and include: mode of study, special units, and objectives & skills.)

Mathematics ........................................................... 3 - 8

Language Arts ........................................................ 9 - 13

Social Studies ......................................................... 13 - 17

Science .................................................................... 17 - 20

Edible School Yard ............................................... 20 - 21

Language ................................................................ 21 - 22

Arts Offerings - Grades 4, 5, and 6 .................... 23 - 26

Arts Offerings - Grades 7, 8, and 9 ................... 26 - 32

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Mathematics 4th and 5th Grades Course Description: In 4th and 5th grade Mathematics students use reasoning and logic to perceive patterns, identify relationships, formulate questions, solve problems and justify strategies when performing mathematical operations. Students communicate mathematical ideas and reasoning using the vocabulary of mathematics in a variety of ways using numbers, symbols, pictures, charts, tables, diagrams, graphs, and models. Students learn about the application of mathematics in the real world through mini-lessons and in-class projects.

Special Units: • Fractal study • Partner based problem solving • Geometric shape study Supporting Materials: Mathematics, Scott Foresman and Addison Wesley Objectives & Skills: Number Sense-Students will understand numbers, multiple ways of representing numbers, relationships among numbers, and number systems.

Number Theory-Students will develop an understanding of the properties of odd/even numbers as a result of multiplication.

Number Theory-Students will understand meanings of operations and procedures, and how they relate to one another.

Estimation-Students will compute accurately and make reasonable estimates.

Algebra-Students will represent and analyze algebraically a wide variety of problem solving situations.

Variables and Expressions-Students will evaluate and express relationships using open sentences with one operation.

Equations and inequalities-Students will recognize, use, and represent algebraically patterns, relations, and functions.

Patterns, Relations, and Functions-Describe, extend, and make generalizations about numeric (+,-,x,/ ) and geometric patterns.

Geometry-Students will use visualization and spatial reasoning to analyze characteristics and properties of geometric shapes.

Geometry-Students will identify and justify geometric relationships, formally and informally.

Measurement-Students will determine what can be measured and how, using appropriate methods and formulas.

Measurement-Students will use units to give meaning to measurements.

Statistics and Probability-Students will collect, organize, display, and analyze data.

Predictions from Data-Students will develop and make predictions that are based on data.

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Mathematics 6th Grade Course Description: In 6th grade Mathematics games and activities are used to help facilitate student driven discoveries about numbers, graphs, and data collection. Students connect mathematical topics using modeling and real world connections to explore the topics of data analysis, whole numbers, fraction operations, decimals, ratios, rational numbers, equivalent expressions, two and three dimensional shapes, variables and patterns. 6th grade Mathematics focuses on algebraic thinking and analysis skills to more deeply develop number sense and application. Students use modeling and quantitative reasoning throughout the curriculum to develop problem solving skills.

Special Units: • Game development • Data collection and graphing • Fractions, decimal and percentages • Converting whole numbers and fractions • Seed germination study • Scale model construction of a playscape • Budgeting for a field trip Supporting Materials: Connected Mathematics by Pearson Objectives & Skills: -Understand relationships among factors, multiples, divisors, and products -Understand why two expressions are equivalent -Understand fractions and decimals as numbers that can be located on the number line, compared, counted, partitioned, and decomposed -Understand ratios as comparisons of two numbers -Understand equivalence of fractions and ratios, and use equivalence to solve problems -Understand that estimation is a tool used in a variety of situations including checking answers and making decisions, and develop strategies for estimating results of arithmetic operations -Revisit and continue to develop meanings for the four arithmetic operations and skill at using algorithms for each -Use variables to represent unknown values and equations to represent relationships -Understand estimation as a tool for a variety of situations, including checking answers and making decisions -Revisit and develop meanings for the four arithmetic operations on whole numbers and decimals, and skill at using algorithms for each decimal operation -Use variables to represent unknown values and equations to represent relationships.

-Develop understanding of variables and how they are related -Understand and use the process of statistical investigation: pose questions, collect and analyze data, and make interpretations to answer questions

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Mathematics 7th Grade Course Description: 7th grade Mathematics explores the foundations and fundamentals of mathematics. Through application and daily explorations, students study algebraic formulas, expressions, and equations. Topics include place value, scientific notation, and rounding leads to solving one- and two-step equations with decimals. Additionally, factorization divisibility strategies, greatest common factor, proportional and similar relationships, scale, and application of percent, least common multiple of a pair of numbers, functions, linear equations, and application of algebra are topics of study. Students finish the year with an in-depth examination of geometry using newly acquired algebraic methods. Concepts and skill mastery are assessed through quizzes, targeted problem sets, informal observation, and oneon-one skill checks.

Special Units: • Scientific notation • Algebraic methods • In depth geometry study • Linear equations • Factorization Supporting Materials: Middle School Math, Course 2 (Scott Foresman - Addison Wesley) Objectives & Skills: -Use data to communicate with graphs, diagrams, and data analysis -Use the language of algebra to problem solve multistep problems using formulas, expressions, and equations -Develop number sense using decimals and fraction concepts (divisibility, prime factorization, equivalency, comparing, and converting) -Study geometric figures using formulas including the Pythagorean theorem, and area of both regular and irregular polygons -Use ratios, rates, proportions, scale, and similarity to solve equations -Use equations and proportions to solve percent problems -Add, subtract, multiply and divide integers -Use symmetry to perform geometric transformations Mathematics 8th and 9th Grade Pre-Algebra and modified Pre-Algebra Course Description: Pre-Algebra helps students to apply conceptual understanding, application, and procedural skill and fluency to foster the development and understanding of the real number system and algebraic thinking. Students acquire skills in adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing signed numbers including integers. Students solve multi-step equations involving real

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numbers with solutions relating to real life situations. Problem solving application during coursework includes consumer, popular, and school-based examples in which students must make sense of realistic data. Students continue to develop important mathematical skills regarding patterns, geometry, measurement,statistics, functions, and data collection.

Remediation and enrichment are provided to differentiate the curriculum. Students maintain a detailed mathematics notebook, are assessed via tests and quizzes, and lead class discussions.

Supporting Materials: Glencoe Math Accelerated, McGraw-Hill Education Special Units: • Problem solving investigations • Integer operations • Procedural skill and fluency • Inquiry labs • Geometric modeling Objectives & Skills: -Extend their understanding of ratios and develop understanding of proportionality to solve single- and multi-step problems. Students use their understanding of ratios and proportionality to solve a wide variety of percent problems -Develop a unified understanding of number, recognizing fractions, decimals (that have a finite or a repeating decimal representation), and percents as different representations of rational numbers. Students extend addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division to all rational numbers, maintaining the properties of operations and the relationships between addition and subtraction, and multiplication and division.

-Reason about relationships among two-dimensional figures using scale drawings and informal geometric constructions, and gain familiarity with the relationships between angles formed by intersecting lines -Work with three-dimensional figures, relating them to two-dimensional figures by examining cross-sections. They solve real-world and mathematical problems involving area, surface area, and volume of two- and three-dimensional objects composed of triangles, quadrilaterals, polygons, cubes and right prisms -Begin informal work with random sampling to generate data sets and learn about the importance of representative samples for drawing inferences

Algebra Course Description: Algebra I begins with a review of Pre-Algebra skills, such as integer operations, solving simple equations, and reviewing the vocabulary and conventions that are important in Algebra.

Students continue on to solve multi-step equations using the distributive property, and perform operations on polynomials. Throughout the course, students learn to solve a variety of word problems involving value, distance, and area. Emphasis is placed on showing work and on students being able to express mathematical thinking clearly.

Supporting Materials: Algebra Structure and Method: Book 1

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Special Units: • Bungee jumping physics project • Mathematical analysis of the Tortoise and the Hare story • Artistic expression project using irrational square roots Objectives & Skills: -Review algebraic concepts including grouping symbols, equations, number lines, and absolute values -Use real numbers for addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and use with the distributive property -Solve equations using operations, transformations, charts, variables, and proofs -Add, subtract, multiply, and divide polynomials -Students will factor polynomials using patterns, squares, and factoring -Use fractions for polynomial long division and mixed expression equations -Apply fractions to ratios, proportions, percents, and negative exponents -Use functions to solve equations with two variables -Define functions and lines with tables, graphs, and equations -Perform addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of radicals and binomials containing radicals -Graph quadratic equations -Apply the zero-product property to solve equations

Algebra II Course Description: In Algebra II students prepare for statistics and precalculus. Throughout the course, students are encouraged to engage in discourse about mathematics with teachers and other students, use the language and symbols of mathematics in representations and communication, discuss problems and problem solving, and develop confidence in themselves as mathematicians. In addition to traditional coursework, studs are able to individualize their instructions using the adaptive learning platform Aleks.com.

Supporting Materials: Algebra Structure and Method, Book 2, McDougal Littell, Aleks.com Special Units: • Individualized programming using Aleks.com • Study in statistics and probability Objectives & Skills: -Make sense of problems and persevere in solving using skills gained in Algebra I. -Students will analyze givens, constraints, relationships, and goals and use symbolism to solve -Reason abstractly and quantitatively. Students will construct viable arguments using stated assumptions, definitions, and previously established results in constructing arguments.

Students will make conjectures and build a logical progression of statements to explore solutions.

-Practice problem solving and proofs using inequalities -7-

-Higher order equations are explored, and roots are found using synthetic division.

-Students learn to graph parabolas, circles, ellipses, and hyperbolas.

-The quadratic formula is derived and used for solving for roots of quadratic equations.

-Study exponential and logarithmic growth -Plot functions and solve word problems -Students study geometric and arithmetic sequences and series.

-Trigonometric functions

Geometry Course Description: Upper level geometry is an advanced math course. Students engage in a comprehensive exploration of Euclidean geometry and its practical application in daily life. Concepts, theorems, and constructions are emphasized in daily lessons and activities. Students engage in discovery and exploration using deductive reasoning and critical thinking skills to look for innovative and creative solutions to new problems. Students are assessed on daily assignments and chapter tests.

Supporting Materials: Geometry: Seeing, Doing, Understanding: Third Edition, Jacobs; EngageNY Special Units: • Two column proofs • Geometric constructions • Mathematical notebook Objectives & Skills: -Demonstrate the ability to use fundamental concepts of geometry, including definitions, basic constructions, and tools of geometry -Demonstrate the ability to apply the properties of angles, parallel and perpendicular lines.

-Students will understand congruence in terms of rigid motions and transformations of geometric shapes -Make formal geometric constructions with a variety of tools and methods -Demonstrate the ability to apply definitions and theorems of triangles -Apply trigonometry to right triangles and general triangles -Visualize relationships between two-dimensional and three-dimensional objects -Students will have an introduction to reasoning, exploration of lines and angles, congruence, inequalities, coordinate geometry, geometric constructions, basics of rigid motion, and extensive coverage of algebraic concepts.

-Learn to solve two line proofs

Pre-Calculus and Calculus Offered as needed

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Language Arts 4th and 5th Grades Course Description: The Readers and Writers workshop model is used in 4th and 5th grade Language Arts. The Workshop method teaches students strategies for reading, writing, and analysis and provides the time for students to apply those skills during independent reading and writing. The workshop model allows teachers to differentiate instructional levels within one classroom and support the needs of all their students. During workshop there are teacher led mini lessons to work on various strategies and skills, guided reading group novel studies, and ample independent reading and writing time to apply learned skills.Student progress is monitored and supported through frequent teacher consultation and individualized structured feedback. At Levels I and II, students read and analyze both poetry and prose, participate in a Vermont pen pal letter exchange, pursue novel studies that take place around books that highlight social justice issues and reflect social studies content, and develop Writing Handbooks filled with self authored stories and essays.

Supporting Materials: Classroom library, Riding Freedom by Pam Munoz Ryan; “Wild Robot”

by Peter Brown “A Little Piece of Ground” by Elizabeth Laird, “Stella by Starlight” by Sharon M. Draper Objectives & Skills: Reading -Students will use prior knowledge to help understand new materials to anticipate and comprehend the deeper meaning of text -Make meaningful connects between texts to create understanding -Ask questions about the texts they read to create a purpose for reading -Use inferencing as a strategy to decode text -Summarize text using key elements of text -Summarize texts for a variety of purposes -Communicate and evaluate text based to defend their understanding by applying criteria such as importance, accuracy, credibility, usefulness, and appropriateness -Synthesize text to create original insights, perspectives and understandings related to the text Writing -Create written pieces on topics or texts, supporting a point of view with reasons and information -Produce clear and coherent writing in which the development and organization are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience -Students will develop and strengthen writing as needed by planning, revising, and editing.

-Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English capitalization, punctuation, and spelling when writing

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Language Arts 6th Grade Course Description: The Readers and Writers workshop model is used in 6th grade Language Arts. The Workshop method teaches students strategies for reading, writing, and analysis and provides the time for students to apply those skills during independent reading and writing. The workshop model allows teachers to differentiate instructional levels within one classroom and support the needs of all their students. During workshop there are teacher led mini lessons to work on various strategies and skills, guided reading group novel studies, and ample independent reading and writing time to apply learned skills. Student progress is monitored and supported through frequent teacher consultation and individualized structured feedback. At Levels I and II, students read and analyze both poetry and prose, participate in a Vermont pen pal letter exchange, pursue novel studies that take place around books that highlight social justice issues and reflect social studies content, and develop Writing Handbooks filled with self authored stories and essays.

Supporting Materials: Classroom library, Riding Freedom by Pam Munoz Ryan; “Wild Robot”

by Peter Brown “A Little Piece of Ground” by Elizabeth Laird, “Stella by Starlight” by Sharon M. Draper Objectives & Skills: Reading -Use prior knowledge to help understand new materials to anticipate and comprehend the deeper meaning of text -Make meaningful connects between texts to create understanding -Ask questions about the texts they read to create a purpose for reading -Use inferencing as a strategy to decode text -Summarize text using key elements of text -Summarize texts for a variety of purposes -Communicate and evaluate text based to defend their understanding by applying criteria such as importance, accuracy, credibility, usefulness, and appropriateness -Synthesize text to create original insights, perspectives and understandings related to the text Writing -Create written pieces on topics or texts, supporting a point of view with reasons and information.

-Produce clear and coherent writing in which the development and organization are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience -Students will, with guidance and support from peers and adults, develop and strengthen writing as needed by planning, revising, and editing

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Language Arts 7th Grade Course Description: The Readers and Writers workshop model is used in 4th-7th grade Language Arts. The Workshop method teaches students strategies for reading, writing, and analysis and provides the time for students to apply those skills during independent reading and writing time. The workshop model allows teachers to differentiate instructional levels within one classroom and support the needs of all students. During workshop there are teacher led mini lessons to work on various strategies and skills, guided reading group novel studies, and ample independent reading and writing time to apply learned skills. Student progress is monitored and supported through frequent teacher consultation and individualized structured feedback.

Students in 7th grade focus on memoir studies, complex text analysis, critical thinking, vocabulary acquisition, research projects, persuasive writing, and extended narrative writing.

Students demonstrate critical thinking and understanding of the material through literacy circle discussions, written reflections in their Reading Response Journals, reading logs, roundtable discussions, and self reflection.

Supporting Materials: Lessons That Change Writers by Nancie Atwell. The Omnivore’s Dilemma (Young Reader’s’ Edition) by Michael; Larry Smith; writing mechanics, “Thank You, Ma’am” by Langston Hughes, “All Summer in a Day” by Ray Bradbury, “Priscilla and the Wimps”

by Richard Peck, “The Tell-Tale Heart” by Edgar Allen Poe, “The Flowers” by Alice Walker, “Chains” by Laurie Halse Anderson Pollan, “The Moment: Wild, Poignant, Life-Changing Stories from 125 Writers and Artists” edited by Larry Smith, and the documentaries: “What’s on Your Plate?” and “Nourish: Food and Community”. Additionally free choice independent books, nonfiction research articles, various free and verse poems are used.

Objectives & Skills: Reading -Read and comprehend grade level literature, including stories, dramas, articles and poems, proficiently, with scaffolding as needed -Apply word analysis and vocabulary skills to comprehend selections -Comprehend a broad range of reading materials using reading strategies to improve understanding and fluency -Speak effectively using language appropriate to the situation and audience Writing -Write to communicate for a variety of purposes -Compose well-organized and coherent writing for specific purposes and audiences -Apply acquired information, concepts and ideas to communicate

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Language Arts 8th Grade Course Description: In 8th grade Language Arts students continue their growth as avid, skilled readers, writers and thinkers using the reading and Writing Workshop model. During reading workshop students read several class novels including the young adult novel Without Annette by Jane B. Mason and a selection of coming-of-age novels. Students also read and analyze a choice novel about the refugee experience and investigate various types of poetry using literary devices.

8th grade Writing Workshops focus on developing skills for creative and analytical writing.

Students are required to develop their ideas for writing and then draft, revise, edit and publish their work. Students study the genre the narrative genre, poetic form, and essay writing.

Supporting Materials: Without Annette by Jane B. Mason; Naming the World: A Year of Poems and Lesson, by Nancie Atwell; The Perks of Being a Wallflower, by Stephen Chbosky; The Outsiders, by S.E. Hinton; Persepolis, by Marjane Satrapi; Speak, by Laurie Halse Anderson; The Diary of a Part-time Indian, by Sherman Alexie; Naming the World: A Year of Poems and Lessons.

Objectives & Skills: -Apply word analysis and vocabulary skills to comprehend selections -Apply Reading Strategies to improve understanding and fluency -Comprehend a broad range of reading materials -Understand how literary elements and techniques are used to convey meaning.

-Read and interpret a variety of literary works -Compose well-organized and coherent writing for specific purposes and audiences -Speak and listen effectively using language appropriate to the situation and audience -Prepare and orally present original work

Language Arts 9th Grade Course Description: The 9th grade language arts course continues intensive practice and study of a variety of texts and writing techniques. Students read extensively from a variety of sources, and draft, revise, and edit their own poetry and prose. The class will focus on creative writing, expository writing, poetry development, and oral presentation skills. Students will connect cross curricular experiences through a variety of expressive formats.

Special Units: • Novel Study-The Tempest • Investigation topic-Coming of Age • Original works of poetry • Experiential creative writing • Short Story unit

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• Journal writing workshop Supporting Materials: The Tempest, Shakespeare, A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, A Separate Peace, The Absolute Diary of a Part-Time Indian, Annie John, The Catcher in the Rye, Into The Wild, The Monkey Wrench Gang, Desert Solitaire, The Bean Trees, Between a Rock and a Hard Place, and selected short stories Objectives & Skills: -Read for all purposes to fully participate in and expand understanding of today’s global society.

-Expand vocabulary by reading, listens, and digesting poetry and prose -Demonstrate listening, writing, and reading, through a variety of short stories -Demonstrate speaking, listening, writing, reading, and research skills while studying The Tempest, A Tree grows in Brooklyn, The Catcher in the Rye, Into the Wild, and more -Demonstrate listening, writing, and reading, through a variety of poetry styles

Social Studies 4th-6th Grade Course Description: 4th-6th grade Humanities is focused on building research and communication skills in the context of cultural studies. Students undertake collaborative, place-based projects where questions are developed about locations around campus and then explored in depth.

Throughout the course students view current events through the lens of social justice and develop discourse surrounding those topics using respectful dialogue.

Supporting Materials: Current events, social justice teachings Special Units: • Campus exploration • Map making • Regional studies • Classroom scale models Objectives & Skills: -Acquire strategies needed for applying decision-making and problem-solving techniques to controversial world issues -Gain perspectives on their own life experiences so they see themselves as part of the world -Identify relationships between places using maps and scale models -Explain the impact of a physical environment on the human experience -Acquire strategies for reading, new articles and social studies materials and for targeting new vocabulary -Acquire strategies to draw from a variety of sources and use appropriate research skills to gather information, synthesize, and report their findings

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Social Studies 7th Grade Course Description: U.S. History I covers the history of the United States from the Paleo-Indians through Andrew Jackson. Students will use skills of historical and geographical analysis to explore the early history of the United States and understand ideas and events that strengthened the union.

Students will learn fundamental concepts in civics, economics, and geography as they study United States history in chronological sequence and learn about change and continuity in our history. This course is primarily lecture- and discussion-based, supplemented with regular clips from documentary movies, map work, skits, hands-on projects, re-enactment activities, puzzles, games, and the occasional feature film. Homework reinforces the classroom instruction. Students are assessed through quizzes, unit tests, and final exams.

Supporting Materials: History Alive! The United States, Bert Bower Special Units: • Re-enactment activities • Mixed media presentations • Map work Objectives & Skills: -Gain a critical understanding of the history, geography, economic, political, and social institutions, traditions, and values of the United States as expressed in both their unity and diversity -Apply terms relevant to the content appropriately and accurately -Interpret timelines of key historical events, people, and periods; locate significant historical places and events on maps -Utilize research strategies, methods, and sources to obtain, organize, and interpret historical data -Analyze how the past influences the lives of individuals and the development of societies

Social Studies 8th Grade Course Description: U.S. History II covers the history of the United States from Andrew Jackson through Viet Nam. Students will continue to learn fundamental concepts in civics, economics, and geography within the context of United States history. Political, economic, and social challenges facing the nation reunited after civil war will be examined chronologically as students develop an understanding of how the American experience shaped the world political and economic landscape. This course is primarily lecture-and discussion-based, supplemented with documentary movies, period poetry and songs, skits, puzzles, games, and almost two dozen after-school feature films. Homework reinforces the classroom instruction. Students are assessed through quizzes, unit tests, and final exams.

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Supporting Materials: History Alive! The United States, Bert Bower Special Units: • Film study • Period Poetry • Skits and historical reenactments Objectives & Skills: -Gain a critical understanding of the history, geography, economic, political, and social institutions, traditions, and values of the United States as expressed in both their unity and diversity -Apply terms relevant to the content appropriately and accurately -Interpret timelines of key historical events, people, and periods; locate significant historical places and events on maps -Utilize research strategies, methods, and sources to obtain, organize, and interpret historical data -Analyze how the past influences the lives of individuals and the development of societies

Additional Course - Community Projects 8th Grade Course Description: Students in 8th grade Community Projects work together to increase quality of life on campus by improving existing structures and organization. Students make a community needs assessment to identify areas of need in the school community. Students then plan and execute a variety of projects, inspiring ownership of school grounds and facilities.

Supporting Materials: Community needs assessed by the students Special Units: • Garden carts • Compost • Robotics maze • Run-in shelter Objectives & Skills: -Practice skills and test classroom knowledge through execution of specified projects -Develop their role as facilitators of service learning and in their engagement with their community -Increase quality of life on campus by improving existing structures and organization

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Social Studies 9th Grade Course Description: The World Cultures course is a combination of Geography and Cultural Anthropology. We strive to answer the questions; What is culture? How does culture develop? Why are there different cultures? How does culture influence our lives and events? Discussions are centered around creating context for current events within our world. Students examine how different cultures approach problems and why certain cultures have been successful and others have not. The course works to develop critical thinking skills through facilitated discussion, research and writing projects, and weekly geography quizzes which help students to place news stories in global context.

Supporting Materials: Guns, Germs, and Steel by Jared Diamond, Collapse by Jared Diamond Special Units: • Research Project • Geography Study • Current events exploration Objectives & Skills: -Define the concept of culture, the role it plays in human affairs, and the main concepts associated with it -Explain what the “multiculturalism” and “cultural diversity” movements are and the basic issues relating to them in modern society -Understand the regional distribution of the human population at local to global scales and its patterns of change.

-Describe how humans influence the environment and in turn are influenced by it -Describe the way that geography contributes to and affects culture -Demonstrate the ability to obtain geographic information from a variety of print and electronic sources

Additional Course - Justice 9th Grade Course Description: In 9th grade Justice students are exposed to philosophy as an academic discipline through exploration and exposure to the teachings of philosophers, ethical inquiry, and debate.

Students will develop skills through classroom discussions and projects related to public speaking, active listening, expression, cognitive flexibility, civic engagement, respect, and self-reflection. Justice students will learn about and participate in formal debates constructed from research they complete. Debate helps students to organize and express their thoughts and point of view clearly while balancing multiple perspectives. Justice students will sharpen critical thinking skills, create a space for civil debate, and be prepared for their upcoming role as citizens. Students are assessed through presentations, written work, formulation of

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arguments for debate, and class participation.

Supporting Materials: WGBH twelve episode documentary series; Zero Dark Thirty; Current events; Teachings from a variety of philosophers, Special Units: • Aristotle, Bentham, Kant, Locke, Nozick, Rawls • Trolley car and other ethical dilemmas • Formal debate technique • Peter Singer’s “Pond Paradox” Objectives & Skills: -Understand and communicate various forms of arguments effectively in a variety of contexts -Conduct researches using multiple sources to support a position in a debate -State arguments accurately and clearly, and identify strengths and weaknesses of different arguments -Develop and defend their own arguments, taking into account a variety of philosophical positions but adding original insights or emphases -Generate effective critical thinking into primary issues in a given topic -Understand major philosophical ideas accurately -Read analytically, critically, and empathetically -Evaluate internet sources for authority, authenticity, objectivity, and currency

Science 4th-6th Grades Course Description: Students in Science Levels I&II focus on asking questions and making observations through the lens of design theory. Students use the scientific process to observe and understanding the methods, strategies, research and analysis of the practice of design in the world. Through a mixture of hands on activities, outdoor exploration and classroom discussions, students develop an understanding of; insects, lifecycles, predatory techniques, decomposition, plant and soils science, microbes, engineering, an introduction to Newtonian physics and the laws of motion, seed germination, plant growth, photosynthesis, digestive system exploration.

Students are assessed on the research projects they produce, their contributions to classrooms discussion, and their command of the material taught.

Supporting Materials: Scientific journals, videos, documentaries and nonfiction texts Special Units: • Insect independent research project • Microbe study • Newtonian physics and outer space • Bicycle recycle

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Objectives & Skills: -Use mathematical analysis, scientific inquiry, and engineering design, as appropriate, to pose questions, seek answers, and develop solutions.

-Scientific inquiry will be used to develop explanations of natural phenomena in a continuing, creative process -Formulate questions independently with the aid of references appropriate for guiding the search for explanations of everyday observations -Seek to clarify, to assess critically, and to reconcile with their own thinking the ideas presented by others, including peers, teachers, authors, and scientists -Develop, present, and defend formal research proposals for testing their own explanations of common phenomena, including ways of obtaining needed observations and ways of conducting simple controlled experiments

Science 7th Grade Course Description: Students in 7th grade Science work both individually and in groups to develop an understanding of and proficiency with scientific investigations. Students use a systematic approach to answer questions about the world around us. Students conduct experiments, learn terminology, how to use lab equipment and the structure of a lab report. Students participate in lab activities to the concepts of explore chemical reactions, the periodic table, electricity and circuitry, global warming and the environment. Student growth is assessed based on participation in class, lab investigations and lab conclusions.

Supporting Materials: Scientific journals, videos, documentaries and nonfiction texts Special Units: • Rocketry design experiment • Chemical reactions • Circuitry and electricity • Public Service Video project Objectives: -Design, analyze, or carry out simple investigations and formulate appropriate conclusions based on data obtained or provided -Develop explanations that explicitly link data from investigations conducted, selected readings and, when appropriate, contributions from historical discoveries -Recognize and describe that environmental changes can have local, regional, and global consequences -Seek to clarify, to assess critically, and to reconcile with their own thinking the ideas presented by others, including peers, teachers, authors, and scientists

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Science 8th Grade Course Description: 8th grade Earth Science gives students specific knowledge of the small and large processes happening around them, as well as a feel for the magnitude and intricacy of their surroundings.

In this course students cover characteristics of different rock types and how they relate to each other and to the earth, climate change and energy sources, a scientific study of snow and avalanche patterns, and the effects of erosion and sediment transport on the environment. Earth Science V takes advantage of our school placement in the Adirondacks to conduct hands on site studies and conduct research experiments. Student growth will be assessed through written work, class discussion, research projects, and site studies.

Supporting Materials: Natural features found in the local environment are used for site studies Special Units: • Climate change • Avalanche study • Erosion site study Objectives & Skills: -Use scientific inquiry to formulate testable questions and hypotheses -Determine and use a variety of tools and techniques to gather and collect data -Use data as support for observed patterns and relationships, and to make predictions to be tested -Use scientific inquiry to evaluate explanations and findings -Identify patterns of change and use those observations to make predictions about the future -Understand that weather variables are interrelated -Identify common forms of rocks

Science 9th Grade Course Description: 9th grade Biology strives to answer the questions; What is the connection between living organisms and their environment? What is the connection between chemistry, cells, organs, and form and function? This is a laboratory-based science class in which students study organization and the characterization of life, ecology, organelles and cells, the systems in the human body, genetics, plant biology, and evolution. Student are immersed in the outdoors throughout their studies and they spend time creating and participating in laboratory experiments.

Supporting Materials: Scientific journals and hands on laboratory investigations

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Special Units: • Diffusion/osmosis lab studies • Food; from photosynthesis to digestion • Investigations in population genetics • Blood typing Objectives & Skills: -Provide a foundation in basic biological principles -Develop an understanding of the interrelationships among living organisms -Further an understanding of the scientific method and its implications -Develop an understanding of some natural laws and their applications to life -Develop the concept of commonality of structure and function in living organisms -Develop the ideas of the uniqueness and diversity of life

Edible Schoolyard (ESY) 4th-6th Grade Course Description: The 4th-6th grade Edible Schoolyard course emphasizes developing an understanding and appreciation for where food comes from. Students pick apples in the fall, forage for wild edibles, and prepare pumpkin puree from scratch. They also explore the campus farm and gardens to learn about what we grow here at NCS. Students discuss what it means to “eat local”, in preparation for our local, homemade, student prepared Thanksgiving dinner. In the winter students focus on learning about using local versus regional products, learning about whole versus processed foods, and learning about upcycling and reusing materials for sustainability. During the Spring Term, we are focus on preparing the soil for planting, learning how to plant, learning about springtime foods, and learning about our new baby animals. We work in the children’s garden, the forest garden, the sugarbush and the greenhouse. We met new baby lambs, ducks, geese, as well as bees. Throughout the course students focus on healthy practices and sustainable choices.

Supporting Materials: Students make use of the campus features such as the children’s garden, the forest garden, the sugarbush, and the greenhouse.

Special Units: • Thanksgiving Dinner • Local vs. regional products • Bread making • Gardening • Animal husbandry Objectives & Skills: -Learn healthy food practices and how to make sustainable choices when selecting food items.

-Learn how to make various foods and dishes for scratch -Learn how to plant, harvest, and identify healthy foods -Develop an understanding of how to care for and support the growth of young animals - 20 -

Edible Schoolyard (ESY) 7th Grade Course Description: In 7th grade Edible Schoolyard course students build on the ideas of eating locally and promoting sustainable habits begun in the 4th-6th grade class. During the fall an emphasis is placed on developing an understanding of and appreciation for how to store fall harvests for use later in the year. Students pick herbs from our gardens and learn how to dehydrate, hang dry, freeze, and store in oil, butter, and food form. Students also learn how to water-bath and can, practicing with salsa, jam and jellies. During the winter term in Edible Schoolyard class, we focus on learning about food systems, comparing industrial versus small scale systems.

Students prepared many different items in the winter including making many dairy products from scratch such as butter, sour cream, and yogurt. In the Spring Term, we are focus on preparing the soil for planting, learning how to plant, learning about springtime foods, and learning about our new baby animals. We worked in the children’s garden, the forest garden, the sugarbush and the greenhouse. We met new baby lambs, ducks, and geese. A highlight of the Spring Term is a our local farm tour where we visit five farms in our region. Students exit the Edible schoolyard class with a deep appreciation for the food we eat as well as how and where it is produced.

Supporting Materials: Students make use of the campus features such as the children’s garden, the forest garden, the sugarbush, and the greenhouse.

Special Units: • Food storage techniques • Thanksgiving Dinner • Local farm visits Objectives: -Learn healthy food practices and how to make sustainable choices when selecting food items -Learn how to make various foods and dishes for scratch -Learn how to plant, harvest,and identify healthy foods -Develop an understanding of how to care for and support the growth of young animals

Language 8th Grade Course Description: 8th grade Spanish focuses on the fundamental elements of the Spanish language within a cultural context. Emphasis is on the progressive development of listening and speaking skills. Students use their language skills to communicate with both teacher and peers about themselves. Students work to learn vocabulary relating to family members and descriptive adjectives, as well as conjugating regular verbs to describe what these people do. The course is designed to increase skill in verbal communication in Spanish while developing written abilities in a foreign language.

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Supporting Materials: Students use conversation to develop language skills in this course

Special Units: • Hispanic culture • Conversational vocabulary • Verb conjugation Objectives & Skills: -Gain a deep knowledge and understanding of the cultures of the Spanish-speaking world.

They will become acquainted with the unique features of places where Spanish is spoken -Develop new insights into the nature of language and culture that will allow them to establish comparisons not only between languages, but also between the Hispanic cultures and their own -Acquire the vocabulary necessary to handle successfully a variety of basic communicative tasks in Spanish both oral and written

Language 9th Grade Course Description: 9th grade Spanish builds on the 8th grade skill set. Students use language skills to communicate with both teacher and peers about themselves and they complete a four minute oral presentation discussing aspects of a Spanish speaking country of their choice.

Vocabulary is developed for location, transportation, shopping, and activities. Additionally, students learn multiple verb tenses for use in complex conversation and written work. This course focuses on developing a deeper sense of cultural context and preparing students for oral presentation in the Spanish language.

Supporting Materials: Students use conversation and to develop language skills in this course Special Units: • Exchange rate • Personal country presentation • Creation and presentation of an original children’s story Objectives & Skills: -Engage in conversations, provide and obtain information, express feelings and emotions, and exchange opinions in the Spanish language -Understand and interpret written and spoken language on a variety of topics -Present information, concepts, and ideas to an audience of listeners or readers of a variety of topics -Demonstrate understanding of the concept of culture through comparisons of the cultures studied and their own

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Arts Offerings 4th-6th Grades Photography Course Description: This course examines various types of analog photography.

Special Units: • Pinhole Camera • Exposure timing • Development techniques • Camera Obscura Objectives & Skills: -Understand the basic concepts of a well formed composition -Demonstrate understanding of common photographic techniques

Making Music Course Description: This course explores the instruments and music from cultures around the world.

Special Units: • African Drumming • West African highlife music • Indian classical music • Brazilian Samba Objectives & Skills: -Demonstrate techniques for playing various types of drums and other percussion equipment -Improvise new drumming ensemble patterns -Move to music while singing or playing instruments -Create new drum ensembles in the style of various drumming traditions -Listen actively and critically to various styles of music which include percussion -Understand and place greater value on the peoples and musical cultures

Theater Course Description: This theater class focuses on storytelling, design, and the art of acting Special Units: • Storytelling presentations • Shakespearean theater design • Monologue • Set and costume design Objectives & Skills: -Cultivate the creative talent of each student -Develop creativity, artistic skills and professionalism in students through an active production program - 23 -

-Encourage and develop skills in communication, problem solving, research and effective writing through application in performance and production

Studio Art Course Description: Students receive feedback via artistic critique in response to completed work.

Special Units: • Illuminated manuscripts • Calligraphy • Batik process Objectives & Skills: -Cultivate their individual creative talent -Use materials, tools and processes from a variety of media -Select appropriate media relative to concepts and forms of art -Describe, analyze and interpret created artwork

Fiber Arts Course Description: Art is created using natural or synthetic fibers with traditional techniques Special Units: • Inkle loom weaving • Floor or table looms • Basket weaving • Spinning or Weaving • Felting Objectives & Skills: -Apply art elements and design principles in the creation of original works of art using fiber arts materials.

- Create a body of work that displays breadth in use of materials and techniques -Create original works of art that reflect personal expression and the intentional use of materials -Refine processes and techniques

Fused Glass Course Description: Students learn about the tools and techniques associated with cutting shaping and gluing fused glass.

Special Units: • Bookmark • Formed metal bracelet • Pendants, rings and charms

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Objectives & Skills: -Students will make glass creations using dichroic glass -Apply art elements and design principles in the creation of original works of art using fiber arts materials -Create a body of work that displays breadth in use of materials and techniques -Create original works of art that reflect personal expression and the intentional use of materials -Refine processes and techniques

Woodworking Course Description: This course seeks to introduce students to the entire process of design, construction and assembly of wooden products.

Special Units: • Design and layout • Joinery • Assembly • Finishing Objectives & Skills: -Understand and apply proper safety practices as they pertain to the woodworking shop -Care for and safely use non-powered and powered woodworking tools -Given simple plans, accurately measure, mark, cut and assemble various projects using hand and power tools

Ceramics Course Description: This course enables students to have a solid foundation in the ceramic process from formation to glaze.

Special Units: • Hand building: Slab, roll, coil • Glazing • Wheel throwing Objectives & Skills: -Making sculpture with handbuilt ceramic form:: slab, roll, coil -Coloring clay, the function of glazes and how they are made and used -Learn good craftsmanship through careful construction and design -Develop manipulative skills in construction and an awareness of the design process by using elements of line, color, form, and texture -Understand/demonstrate a knowledge of the process of critique

Design and Build Course Description: Hands on engineering project development.

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Special Units: • Bridge replacement project • Demolition • 3-D modeling software • Presentation • Execution Objectives & Skills: -Select the structural system that best fits the project -Apply the engineering problem solving process to solve basic engineering design and analysis problems -Be able to identify necessary known and unknown information towards a solution and the process to be followed to arrive at a solution -Work effectively in small groups and be able to organize the group to optimize performance and results.

-Learn good craftsmanship through careful construction and design

Arts Offerings 7th, 8th, and 9th Grades Guitar Course Description: The guitar course explores harmonic and melodic development on the guitar.

Special Units: • Multiple chord forms • Scales • Guitar fingerboard • Songwriting • Hand strength and agility Objectives & Skills: -Give students a working knowledge of guitar basics -Students will be able to identify the parts of the guitar and their uses - Students will be able to apply tuning techniques using the relationships between the strings, note intervals, and chords -Students will perform exercises such as playing through scales, chord charts, strumming patterns and rhythms -Students will be able to read basic music on the guitar

Musical Performance Course Description: The students in Musical Performance create an entirely original musical production

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Special Units: • Narrative development • Songwriting • Character development • Plot development and conflict resolution Objectives & Skills: -Be introduced to the basic tenets of songwriting and some possible approaches for doing so -Perform original and non original songs for their peers which may include lyrics, rhythm patterns, improvisation, duets, etc.

Pursue active music-making, both vocally and instrumentally -Be functionally literate in the language of music-reading, writing, speaking and listening -Become informed audience members (intelligent listeners and evaluators) of music and musical performances -Recognize the importance of steady practice routines and teamwork

Fiber Arts Course Description: Art is created using natural or synthetic fibers with traditional techniques Special Units: • Inkle loom weaving • Floor or table looms • Basket weaving • Spinning or Weaving • Felting Objectives & Skills: -Apply art elements and design principles in the creation of original works of art using fiber arts materials - Create a body of work that displays breadth in use of materials and techniques -Create original works of art that reflect personal expression and the intentional use of materials.

-Refine processes and techniques

Darkroom Photography Course Description: This course examines the photographic process from capture to printing Special Units: • Darkroom chemicals • Burn/dodge technique • Print exposure and development • Black and white photography Objectives & Skills: -Explore photographic and darkroom/lab processes using key concepts learned through the - 27 -

study and practice of traditional darkroom photography -Gain a basic understanding of the technical aspects of black and white photography involving camera operation,exposure control, film processing, print enlarging and finishing -Become familiar with photographic materials, as well as artistic composition and design

EV3 Robotics Course Description: Students develop programming for EV3 Lego Mindstorm robots Special Units: • “Green City” Challenge • EV3 platform • Mindstorms programming environment • Problem solving Objectives & Skills: -Nurture and cultivate the students’ interest in robotics by having students extend what they have learned in the classroom -Hone their understanding of mechanisms, their general Lego building skills, and their ability to solve open-ended design challenges -Gather authentic design-build-test experience that simulates real-world engineering, and incorporates elements of teamwork -Construct a robot that can be programmed to follow simple motion instructions

Directing Course Description: Students direct chosen scenes from a published play.

Special Units: • Scene selection • Stage picture • Body language • Performance Objectives & Skills: -Develop the basic skills and knowledge necessary to work with actors and to bring a piece to production -Explore the challenges of directing sequences involving action and movement for both drama and comedy -Develop an understanding of how actor placement and other tools allow action to speak to the audience -Develop the ability to communicate with actors to build and adjust their actors’ performances -Analyze dialogue and performance material -Explore the basic techniques of blocking and staging

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Vocal Performance Course Description: Students are introduced to voice as an artistic medium Special Units: • Group performance • Individual performance • Theatrical quality • Musical production Objectives & Skills: -Vocalize part using accurate pitch -Perform alone and in small and large ensembles with good posture and good singing position -Improvise simple rhythmic variations and simple melodic embellishments on familiar melodies -Express critical judgments about your own performance of music being studied.

Demonstrate a positive attitude toward music, self-development and group cooperation

Improv Theater Course Description: Students practice live theater scenes set in the moment Special Units: • Improv games • Character development • Flexible thinking • Improv troupe performance Objectives & Skills: -Students will create and evaluate storytelling using the body, voice, and/or basic props.

-Demonstrate an understanding of improvisation techniques and theories for dance and theater -Create a theatrical characterization which is credible and appropriate to the genre and style of the action -Take risks and creatively express themselves through the use of improvisation -Recognize the role of creativity, research and analysis, and discipline in developing a quality performance

Theater-Monologue Course Description: Students choose and memorize a monologue, then work to bring it to a performance level.

Special Units: • Lucid Body acting • “Sense memory” • Character creations • Flexible acting exercising

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Objectives & Skills: -Gain experience in the creative process of preparing a theatrical work for performance before a live audience -Create performances dedicated towards warm-up preparation, vocalization, staging techniques and performance methods -Evaluate monologue performances including self and peer assessment -Analyze the physicality of a character through explanation of the character’s motivations -Learn how to communicate effectively the author’s intent through performance -Create a theatrical characterization which is credible and appropriate to the genre and style of the play from which a scene is taken

Musical History Course Description: The history of musical theater is explored the lenses of gender and race Special Units: • Showboat • Oklahoma • Hairspray • Rent • In the Heights Objectives & Skills: -To explore the diversity of theater and its intersection with community, culture and society -Connect the function of dance and the varying performing styles with the historical periods of its stylistic development -Connect the modern international mega-musical to the cultural and financial influences that encouraged them

Advanced Ceramics Course Description: Advanced ceramics takes a self-directed approach to making artwork, developing work that is historically informed, aesthetically considered and expertly crafted Special Units: • Electric wheel throwing • Making sets • Glaze techniques • Multiple types of clay Objectives & Skills: -Develop individual approaches to glazing and firing that are appropriate for their work -Concentrate on a specific area (i.e., throwing, hand building, installation) to achieve excellence -Develop wheel throwing technique -Make use of a variety of clay mediums in the creation of utilitarian and sculptural form as a means of artistic personal expression -Understand/demonstrate a knowledge of the process of critique - 30 -

Costume Creation Course Description: Students develop the look of each actors in a performance to portray individual characteristics Special Units: • Character analysis • Costume design • Sewing, measuring, cutting • Patterning Objectives & Skills: -Analysis and research -Analyze scripts and details to develop costume designs that are appropriate to the production vision -Learn various methodologies of costume design and construction -Build and present costume designs -Work in teams to develop and execute designs

SCRATCH Programming Course Description: Students program their own interactive stories, games, and animations and share those creations with others Special Units: • Video game programming • Scratch X programming • Team work approach Objectives & Skills: -Write instructions which a computer follows to enable it to store knowledge, process knowledge, and communicate knowledge with the SCRATCH application -Use knowledge of how computers process information to design and execute projects -Use logical thinking skills to problem solve in collaborative teams -Use problem based learning opportunities to develop critical thinking and problem solving skills

Metal Fabrication Course Description: Metal fabrication introduces students to creating useful items with steel Special Units: • Metal formation • Cutting techniques • Welding Objectives & Skills: -Have a basic understanding of fabrication in steel

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-Learn how to safely use welding equipment, machines, and power tools through demonstration -Learn principles, concepts and applications of various metal fabrication methods encountered in a metalworking fabrication environment

Playwriting Course Description: Students are introduced to the art of playwriting through the writing of student plays Special Units: • Storylines • Characters • Backstories • Plot development • Young playwright festival submissions Objectives & Skills: -Create believable characters and dialogue by writing and revising an original scene -Show an ability to recognize and apply dramatic tension, dialogue, and characterization to their writing -Demonstrate an understanding of how literature can be communicated and experienced through language, non-verbals and movement

Digital Photography Course Description: Students explore digital photography manipulation and creation Special Units: • Aesthetic composition • Portraiture • Landscape imagery • Computer editing • Graphic Design Objectives & Skills: -Utilize different forms of technology in regards to the digital image -Learn the basics of the camera and editing program -Form a basic understanding for critiquing one’s own work and the work of others in relation to digital photography -Understand technical and aesthetic differences between traditional and digital photography -Make informed choices about appropriate technologies for use in a variety of photographic assignments -Demonstrate proper camera and digital processing techniques in production of works of art

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