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ST. CATHARINE ACADEMY Course Offering Book 2021-2022

The mission of St. Catharine Academy is to prepare young women in the Mercy tradition for college success, leadership and engagement in the world community.

2250 Williamsbridge Rd. Bronx, NY 10469 718-882-2882 1

TABLE OF CONTENTS Courses Offered at SCA ............................................................................................................3 – 4 Advanced Placement Program .........................................................................................................5 St. John’s College Advantage Program ..........................................................................................6 English Department Course Descriptions ..................................................................................7 – 9 Fine Arts Department Course Descriptions ...........................................................................10 – 12 Mathematics Department Course Descriptions .....................................................................13 – 16 Modern Language Department Course Descriptions .............................................................17 – 18 Physical Education/Health Department Course Descriptions................................................19 – 21 Science Department Course Descriptions ..............................................................................22 – 24 Social Studies Department Course Descriptions ...................................................................25 – 28 Technology Department Course Descriptions ...............................................................................29 Theology Department Course Descriptions ...........................................................................30 – 31 Student Services ……………………………………………………………………………32

COURSE OFFERINGS Course

9th Grade

10th Grade

11th Grade

12th Grade

English

English 9 English 9H

English 10 English 10H

English 11 AP English Language

College Writing Public Speaking American Literature

Fine Arts

Intro to Art Dance 1

Intro to Art Dance 1 Dance 2 Drawing and Painting

Drawing and Painting Drawing/Painting 2 Graphic Design Fashion Design Dance 1 Dance 2 Advanced Dance

Drawing and Painting Drawing/Painting 2 Graphic Design Fashion Design AP Art and Design Dance 1 Dance 2 Advanced Dance

Mathematics

Algebra Algebra H

Geometry Regents Geometry Algebra 2 Honors

Algebra 2 Regents Algebra 2 PreCalculus Honors

College Algebra Probability/Statistics PreCalculus AP Calculus Business

Spanish 1 Spanish 1 Pre AP Spanish 2

Spanish 2 Spanish 3 AP Spanish Language AP Spanish Literature

PE Dance 1 Dance 2

PE Dance 1 Dance 2 Advanced Dance

Modern Language

Physical Education/ Health

PE Dance 1 Health

Course

9th Grade

10th Grade

11th Grade

12th Grade

Science

Regents Biology

Chemistry Regents Chemistry Robotics

Anatomy AP Biology Robotics Robotics 2 Advanced Robotics

Anatomy Forensics Nutrition Robotics Robotics 2 Advanced Robotics Physics AP Biology

Social Studies

Global 9

Global 10 AP World

US History AP US History Intro to Psychology Civil Law

Government Economics AP Government Intro to Psychology Child Psychology Civil Law Business Law

Coding

Microsoft Office Suite

Technology

Theology

Theology 9

Theology 10

Theology 11

Theology 12 Youth Ministry

Student Services

Guidance 9 Grade 9 Seminar HAP Program

Guidance 10 HAP Program

Guidance 11 HAP Program

Guidance 12 HAP Program

Advanced Placement Courses St. Catharine Academy offers Advanced Placement Courses to give students the opportunity to experience college level courses and earn college credit. Students in AP Courses take the National College Board Exam in May. The exam fee in 2021 was $95 and it is subject to increase in 2022.

Courses AP Modern History AP US History AP Government and Politics AP English Language AP English Literature AP Biology AP Calculus AB AP Spanish Language AP Spanish Literature AP Studio Art

St John’s College Advantage Program St. Catharine Academy offers courses through the College Advantage Program of St. John’s University. A student can get a head start by earning college credit while still attending St. Catharine Academy at a reduced tuition rate of $325 per course. College Advantage credit is transferable to many other institutions for a student who choices not to earn a degree at St. John’s if the grade is “C” or better. Student Eligibility: • • • •

A student must be a Junior or Senior A student must have a minimum average of 85% in the five academic subjects (English, Math, Social Studies, Language and Science) A student must have a combined PSAT/SAT score of 1080 or higher A student may enroll in up to three courses (or nine credits) a semester

Courses St. John’s Course

FYW 1000C First Year Writing

Eligible Students

Gr 12

Must be Enrolled in the Following SCA Course

College Writing

SPE 1000C Public Speaking for the Gr 12 College Student ENG 2060 Introduction to American Gr 12 Literature SPA 1020 Spanish, Level II (Span 3 S1) Gr 11 or 12

Public Speaking

SPA 2030 Spanish Level III (Span 3 S2)

GR 11 or 12

Spanish 3 – S2

MTH 1050 College Algebra & Trig

Gr 11 or 12

Regents Algebra 2

MTH 1730 University Calculus I

Gr 12

Calculus II- S1

MTH 1740 University Calculus II

Gr 12

Calculus II – S2

ART 1200 Intro to Drawing

Gr 11 or 12

Drawing & Painting I

ART 1210 Intro to Drawing II

Gr 11 or 12

Drawing & Painting II

American Literature Spanish 3-S1

ENGLISH DEPARTMENT

2010 English 9 Credit: 1 credit Open to: Freshmen This course is an introduction to literary genres and literary terms. Emphasis is placed on reading and writing skills. Students will learn to think analytically about literature and writing. In addition, students are introduced to the standards for the Regents Examination in English Language Arts. Requirements include writing various essays, a research project, and a midterm and final examination. This course is a requirement for freshmen students if they are not enrolled in English 9 honors.

2015 English 9 Honors Credit: 1 credit Open to: Freshmen Prerequisite: TACHS scores and grade school records determine placement This course provides an introduction to literary genres and literary terms. Emphasis is placed on independent study, independent reading, and class discussion of literature. Students will learn to think critically and analytically about literature and writing. The requirements of this course include writing various literary essays, a midterm and a final exam.

2020 English 10 Credit: 1 credit Open to: Sophomores Prerequisite: Successful completion of English 9 This course is a survey of different genres of literature and poetry through modern times. Students are further prepared for the Regents and emphasis is placed on literary analysis, critical reading and writing skills, oral presentations, and grammar and vocabulary enrichment.

ENGLISH DEPARTMENT 2025 English 10 Honors Credit: 1 credit Open to: Sophomores Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation and 90% average in English 9 or 85% average in English 9H. Student must also qualify for AP World History. This course surveys world literature, with a special focus on women’s empowerment and varying points of view. Students will draw on their knowledge, insights, and experiences to interpret and evaluate the actions, attitudes, and perceptions of diverse characters and the authors who created them. The class will further emphasize the importance of the author's stylistic techniques and points of view. Strengthened writing skills, vocabulary knowledge, writing strategies, and the ability to command an oral presentation will lay the foundation for AP Language. This class takes the Regents Examination in English Language Arts in January. 2030: English 11 Credit: 1 credit Open to: Juniors Prerequisite: Successful Completion of English 10 This course combines preparation for the Regents and SAT examinations with the study of American Literature from Native American to contemporary works. The class will explore the American voice and themes such as individualism, community, freedom, and equality, and will address societal class and gender issues. Vocabulary, grammar, and writing skills are stressed for the completion of various essays throughout the school year. This class takes the Regents Examination in English Language Arts in January. 2036 AP English Language Credit: 1 credit Open to: Juniors Prerequisite: At least a 90% average English 10H, English teacher recommendation, passing Regents with a score of at least 85%. Student must also qualify for AP US History. Additional Cost: $95 AP exam fee in 2021 – slight increase each year set by College Board Advanced Placement English Language and Composition course engages students in becoming skilled readers of prose written in a variety of periods, disciplines and rhetorical contexts, and in becoming skilled writers who compose for a variety of purposes. Both their writing and their reading should make students 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 effectiveness in writing.

ENGLISH DEPARTMENT 2042 College Writing (with St. John’s College Advantage Program credits if you qualify) Credit: 0.5 school credit and/or 3 credits with St. John’s University Credit Open to: Seniors Additional Cost: $325 due to St. John’s University for qualifying students. This course will examine various forms of writing in different types of genres. This class will help enhance skills in development and creativity.

2043 Public Speaking (with St. John’s College Advantage Program credits if you qualify) Credit: 0.5 school credit and/or 3 credits with St. John’s University Credit Open to: Seniors Additional Cost: $325 due to St. John’s University for qualifying students. This course will focus on public speaking and the purpose of the art. Students will have exposure to at least four speech types incorporating the skills learned in class. Emphasis on academic as well as social presentations is the focus of the class.

2047 American Literature (with St. John’s College Advantage Program credits if you qualify) Credit: 0.5 school credit and/or 3 credits with St. John’s University Credit Open to: Seniors Additional Cost: $325 due to St. John’s University for qualifying students. Prerequisite: successful completion of the AP English Language and/or AP English Literature course. Student must also qualify for AP Government. This course is an introduction to American literature from the colonial period to the present day. Students will complete writing assignments of varying lengths and they will be mostly analytic. Students will also write a research paper.

FINE ARTS DEPARTMENT

7020 Intro to Art Credit: Open to:

0.5 credit Freshmen or students who have not taken art

This class is an introduction to studio art. Students will learn the basic elements and principles of art and design through various projects. Discussion and assignments include: observational drawing, landscape, creating a composition, still life drawing, symmetry, balance, texture, art of the past and present, perspective, contour and care and use of a variety of materials which will include paint, oil pastel, color pencils etc. Students will be required to keep a sketchbook for weekly homework assignments. 7046 Drawing and Painting I Credit: 0.5 credit or (with St. John’s College Advantage Program credits if you qualify) Open to: Juniors and Seniors Additional Cost: $325 due to St. John’s University for qualifying students. Prerequisite: Intro to Art This course develops drawing and painting skills as a means of personal expression and communication. A variety of media, such as pencil, ink, charcoal, watercolor and acrylic will be explored. Students will be involved in experiences that redefine traditional drawing and painting media and techniques as well as sharpening their skills of visual observation. Projects include experiences in basic mark making, observational drawing, color theory and perspective, as well as an historical component, along with keeping a personal sketchbook. Those wishing to pursue a career in the arts will be able to build a body of work for portfolios and exhibit their work in public forums.

7050 Drawing and Painting II Credit: 0.5 credit or (with St. John’s College Advantage Program credits if you qualify) Open to: Juniors and Seniors Additional Cost: $325 due to St. John’s University for qualifying students. Prerequisite: Drawing and Painting I This course builds on the concepts and techniques of Drawing and Painting I. Students use traditional and new media materials in a variety of disciplines including painting, printmaking, drawing, and assemblage. Students will move more deeply into their drawing and painting explorations by building on their skills in the creative process, along with keeping a personal sketchbook. 10

FINE ARTS DEPARTMENT

7047 Fashion Design Credit: Open to:

0.5 credit Juniors and Seniors

This is a foundation course designed to develop skills in fashion design and illustration. Students are required to keep a personal sketchbook and design resource folders. A variety of projects will be explored including drawing from life, flats, working drawings, fabric rendering and mood boards. Those wishing to pursue a career in fashion design or merchandising will be able to build a body of work for portfolios.

7048 Graphic Design Credit: Open to:

0.5 credit Juniors and Seniors

This course teaches the fundamentals of graphics and media design. Students gain an understanding of advertising and other mass communications marketing practices with hands on work and portfolio development using Photoshop.

7021 Dance Credit: Open to:

0.5 credit All grade levels

This course provides an overview of dance and dance history. Students become acquainted with basic technique in Ballet, Modern, West African, and Hip Hop. Gaining movement skills and finding confidence and enjoyment through dance appreciation are a focus of this class. No previous dance experience is necessary.

7029 Dance 2 Credit: 0.5 credit Open to: Sophomores, Juniors and Seniors Prerequisite: Dance 1

This course provides a detailed study and development of dance technique. The student-dancer will be trained in the styles of Ballet and Modern. 11

FINE ARTS DEPARTMENT

7031 Advanced Dance Credit: 0.5 credit Open to: Juniors and Seniors Prerequisite: Dance 1 and Dance 2 Students will be exposed to local professional dance companies, analyzing dance theories and choreographic structure. Focus is placed on challenging the student-dancer to self-create and perform choreography in the styles of Ballet, Contemporary, and Hip Hop.

7056 AP Art and Design Credit: 1 credit Open to: Seniors Prerequisite: Drawing and Painting 1 and Drawing and Painting 2 Additional Cost: AP Portfolio Fee $95 in 2021 – slight increase each year set by College Board AP Art and Design provides high school students with the opportunity to create portfolios of college-level work which are submitted for evaluation at the end of the school year. Qualifying portfolio scores enable students to earn college credit and/or advanced placement

MATHEMATICS DEPARTMENT 3010 Algebra Credit: 1 credit Open to: Freshmen Algebra presents the fundamentals of high school algebra as outlined in the common core curriculum. The course emphasizes algebraic language, structure, concepts and skills. It strengthens basic math skills, encourages critical thinking skills, and uses practical applications. Students become proficient in the use of the graphing calculator. This course meets 16 times per 8 day cycle. The course culminates with the Common Core Algebra Regents in June. 3015 Algebra Honors Credit: 1 credit Open to: Freshmen Prerequisite: TACHS and 8th grade performance Algebra Honors presents the fundamentals of Algebra 1 and begins Algebra 2 as outlined in the common core curriculum. An integrated approach is used with emphasis on practical applications, critical thinking and advanced algebraic topics. Appropriate hands-on activities and applications showing use of the graphing calculator is explored. This course meets 16 times per 8 day cycle. The students will take the Common Core Algebra Regents. 3020 Geometry Credit: 1 credit Open to: Sophomore Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra Geometry presents the fundamentals of high school geometry as outlined in the common core curriculum. This is an integrated course which expands on geometric concepts and introduces new topics including coordinate geometry, formal proofs and graphs of conics. This course follows the Regents standards for Geometry. Students apply algebra skills and extend these skills to problem solving strategies and applications in geometry. 3021 Regents Geometry Credit: 1 credit Open to: Sophomore Prerequisite: 80% or above on Algebra 1 Regents. Student must also qualify for Regents Chemistry. Geometry Honors presents the fundamentals of high school geometry as outlined in the common core curriculum. It is an integrated course which furthers the development of critical and logical thinking. Topics in geometry and advanced algebra are fully explored with an emphasis on deductive reasoning. Further development of geometric concepts is explored through constructions, formal proof, loci, transformations, and conics. Key concepts and applications are presented with the use of a graphing calculator. This course prepares the students for Common Core Geometry Regents in June. 13

MATHEMATICS DEPARTMENT 3031 Algebra 2 Credit: 1 credit Open to: Juniors Prerequisite: Successful completion of Geometry course This course will explore advanced Algebra topics including rational expressions, quadratic formula, complex number system, relations and functions, and geometry of the circle. 3033 Regents Algebra 2 Honors Credit: 1 school credit Open to: Sophomores Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra Honors and Geometry Honors course and teacher approval This is an integrated course in advanced topics in algebra and trigonometry which follows the Regents standards for the Algebra 2 Regents exam. Non-algebraic topics include advanced probability, statistics, functions and transformations. Additional topics include zeros of polynomials, conic sections, and quadratic equations. The course also covers sequences and series, statistics, and trigonometric equations and identities. Students will be required to take the Algebra 2 Common Core Regents exam in June. 3033 Regents Algebra 2 (with St. John’s College Advantage Program credits if you qualify) Credit: 1 school credit and/or 3 credits with St. John’s University program Additional Cost: $325 due to St. John’s University for qualifying students. Open: Juniors Prerequisite: Successful completion of Regents Geometry course and teacher approval This is an integrated course in advanced topics in algebra and trigonometry which follows the Regents standards for the Algebra 2 Regents exam. Non-algebraic topics include advanced probability, statistics, functions and transformations. Additional topics include zeros of polynomials, conic sections, and quadratic equations. The course also covers sequences and series, statistics, and trigonometric equations and identities. Students will be required to take the Algebra 2 Common Core Regents exam in June.

MATHEMATICS DEPARTMENT 3042 PreCalculus Honors Credit: 1 credit Open to: Qualified Juniors Prerequisite: Pre-Requisite: Successful completion of the Regents Geometry Honors Course or Algebra Trig and teacher approval This course covers advanced algebra and geometrical concepts including matrices, series and sequences, advanced factoring, synthetic division, zeros of polynomials and mathematical systems. The students will take the Algebra 2 regents in January. The second semester of the course begins Calculus with topics such as limits, continuity, and derivatives.

3043 College Algebra Credit: Open to:

0.5 credit Seniors

This course is an introduction to college level Algebra. Topics include trigonometric graphs and applications, synthetic division, matrices, binomial expansion and the fundamentals of number theory. 3044 Probability and Statistics Credit: Open to:

0.5 credit Seniors

This course is an introduction to college level probability and statistics. It incorporates the use of technology to gather, explore and present data in an organized format. 3040 PreCalculus Credit: 1 credit Open to: Qualified Seniors Prerequisite: Successful completion of the Regents Geometry Course or Algebra Trig and teacher approval This course covers advanced algebra and geometrical concepts including matrices, series and sequences, advanced factoring, synthetic division, zeros of polynomials and mathematical systems. The course also includes introductory concepts of Calculus, such as limits, continuity,

MATHEMATICS DEPARTMENT 3046 Advanced Placement Calculus Credit: 1 credit Open to: Qualified Seniors Prerequisite: To enroll in this course, students must have successfully completed PreCalculus 3042 Additional Cost: $95 AP exam fee in 2021– slight increase each year set by College Board This course covers all topics as in the AP Calculus Course Description so as to prepare students to take the AP Calculus exam. Topics for the course include limits, derivatives, integrals, area and volume. Students communicate mathematically both orally and in well-written sentences to explain solutions to problems. Students model a written description of a physical situation with a function, a differential equation, or an integral. 3066 Business Credit: 0.5 Open to: Seniors This course is designed for students who wish to successfully participate in and/or eventually manage business enterprises. Through case studies and projects that place students in the role of professionals, decision-makers, and entrepreneurs, it teaches key concepts and skills essential to marketing and sales; manufacturing and operations; and finance and accounting.

MODERN LANGUAGE DEPARTMENT

6020 Spanish 1 Credit: 1 credit Open to: Freshmen and Sophomores This course offers an introduction to the basic elements of the Spanish language: listening, speaking, reading and writing. At the completion of the course, students will be able to recognize, use, and pronounce basic vocabulary words in writing and conversation; understanding; and be familiar with various aspects of the culture. Students are required to present projects or portfolios as part of their grade. At the end of each semester a departmental exam is given.

6023 Spanish 1 Pre-AP Credit: 1 credit Open to: Freshmen and Sophomores This course offers an introduction to the basic elements of the Spanish Language. In the second quarter, the course will accelerate and basic elements of Spanish 2 and 3 will be introduced. The course is offered to those students who have outside experience with the language, developing the basic language skills: reading, writing, speaking and listening. Students are required to present projects or portfolios and oral presentations as part of their grade. They will take the Spanish Comprehensive FLAC Exam at the end of the second semester. 6030 Spanish 2 Credit: 1 credit Open to: Sophomores and Juniors Prerequisite: Successful completion of Spanish 1 This is an intermediate course in the study of Spanish. Students continue to develop reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills in a stimulating context, while learning about all aspects of the foreign culture and engaging in activities which provide communication in the language. Methods of assessment include: quizzes, tests, writing assignments, projects, and oral presentations. A departmental exam is given at the end of each semester.

MODERN LANGUAGE DEPARTMENT

6040 Spanish 3 (with St. John’s College Advantage Program credits if you qualify) Credit: 1 credit and/or 6 credits with St. John’s University program Open to: Juniors and Seniors Prerequisite: Successful completion of Spanish 2 Additional Cost: $325 due to St. John’s University for qualifying students. This is an advanced intermediate course in Spanish. Students continue to develop reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills, while learning about all aspects of the foreign culture and engaging in communicative activities. The requirements include projects and a journal, a departmental midterm exam, and the Comprehensive FLACS Final Exam at the end of the second semester.

6056 Advanced Placement Spanish Language Credit: 1 credit Open to: Juniors and Seniors Prerequisite: Successful completion of Spanish 1 PreAP or Spanish 3 and Teacher recommendation Additional Cost: $95 AP exam fee in 2021 – slight increase each year set by College Board The course provides an opportunity for high school students to receive credit for college work completed at the secondary school level. The students will continue to acquire and develop the receptive and production skills: listening, reading, speaking, writing. It will prepare the students to successfully take the Advanced Placement Language Examination in May.

6066 Advanced Placement Spanish Literature Credit: 1 credit Open to: Seniors Prerequisite: Successful completion of AP Spanish Language and Teacher recommendation Additional Cost: $95 AP exam fee in 2021 – slight increase each year set by College Board The AP Spanish Literature and Culture course is designed to introduce students to the formal study of a representative body of literature, written in Spanish, from Peninsular Spain, Latin America and the United States. The course provides students with ongoing and varied opportunities to develop proficiency in Spanish across a full range of skills, with emphasis on critical reading and analytical writing. It also encourages students to reflect on the many voices and cultures included in a rich and diverse body of literature written in Spanish.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND HEALTH DEPARTMENT 9010 Physical Education 9 Credit: 0.5 credit Open to: Freshmen This course introduces students to various lifetime and team sport activities such as basketball, volleyball, floor hockey, soccer/softball, and fitness; which help foster coordination, rhythm and physical conditioning. Basic fundamental skills with rules, terminologies and strategies in these various sports will be implemented. The students will also learn about making healthy food choices and understanding the importance of physical activity in their lives. Students will be administered the NYS Physical Best Fitness Test. 9020 Physical Education 10 Credit: 0.5 credit Open to: Sophomores This course expands student’s exposure and learning to various lifetime and team sport activities such as basketball, volleyball, floor hockey, soccer/softball, and fitness; which help foster coordination, rhythm and physical conditioning. Intermediate fundamental skills with rules, terminologies and strategies in these various sports will be implemented. The students will also continue learning about making healthy food choices and understanding the importance of physical activity in their lives. Students will be administered the NYS Physical Best Fitness Test.

9030 Physical Education 11 Credit: 0.5 credit Open to: Juniors This course expands student’s exposure and learning to various lifetime and team sport activities such as basketball, badminton, paddleball, volleyball, floor hockey, soccer/softball, yoga, kickboxing, Pilates, resistance training, body sculpting, and aerobics which help foster coordination, rhythm and physical conditioning. Advanced fundamental skills with rules, terminologies and strategies in these various sports will be implemented. The students will also continue learning about making healthy food choices and understanding the importance of physical activity in their lives. Students will be administered the NYS Physical Best Fitness Test.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND HEALTH DEPARTMENT 9031 Physical Education 12 Credit: 0.5 credit Open to: Seniors This course expands student’s exposure and learning to various lifetime and team sport activities such as basketball, badminton, paddleball, volleyball, floor hockey, soccer/softball, yoga, kickboxing, Pilates, resistance training, body sculpting, and aerobics which help foster coordination, rhythm and physical conditioning. Advanced fundamental skills with rules, terminologies and strategies in these various sports will be implemented. The students will also continue learning about making healthy food choices and understanding the importance of physical activity in their lives. Students will be administered the NYS Physical Best Fitness Test.

7021 Dance 1 Credit: 0.5 credit Open to: All grade levels This course provides an overview of dance and dance history. Students become acquainted with basic technique in Ballet, Modern, West African, and Hip Hop. Gaining movement skills and finding confidence and enjoyment through dance appreciation are a focus of this class. No previous dance experience is necessary. 7029 Dance 2 Credit: 0.5 credit Open to: Sophomores, Juniors and Seniors Prerequisite: Dance 1

This course provides a detailed study and development of dance technique. The student-dancer will be trained in the styles of Ballet and Modern.

7031 Advanced Dance Credit: 0.5 credit Open to: Juniors and Seniors Prerequisite: Dance 1 and Dance 2

Students will be exposed to local professional dance companies, analyzing dance theories and choreographic structure. Focus is placed on challenging the student-dancer to self-create and perform choreography in the styles of Ballet, Contemporary, and Hip Hop.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND HEALTH DEPARTMENT 9021 Health Education Credit: 0.5 credit Health Education is designed for today’s adolescents and their issues. The purpose of this course, in addition to providing knowledge and skills, is to encourage a change of attitude, so that students will behave in ways that will promote total wellness. The course explores various topics such as: health and wellness, stress management, nutrition, weight control, First Aid and CPR, sex education, and substance abuse (including alcohol, tobacco and illicit drugs).

SCIENCE DEPARTMENT

4010 Regents Biology Credit: 1 credit Open to: Freshmen This course explores the relationships between the living and nonliving factors on the Earth. Units include: Similarities & Differences among Living Things, Basic Biochemical Processes, Genetics, Reproduction & Development, Evolution and Ecology. Students participate in handson laboratory experiences as they prepare for the Living Environment Regents in June. 4020 Regents Chemistry Credit: 1 credit Open to: Sophomores Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology course and passing grade on Biology Regents. Student must also qualify for Geometry Regents. Chemistry is the study of matter, all of the elements that compose it, and the types of reactions that can occur. The course includes units on the math of chemistry, gas laws, matter and energy, atomic and molecular structure, the periodic table, bonding, solutions, kinetics, equilibrium, acids and bases, redox and electrochemistry, organic chemistry, and nuclear chemistry. The course will emphasize practical uses of chemistry in everyday life and will include labs to strengthen and reinforce the understanding of main topics. 4024 Chemistry Credit: 1 credit Open to: Sophomores Chemistry is the study of matter, all of the elements that compose it, and the types of reactions that can occur. The course includes units on the math of chemistry, matter and energy, atomic structure, the periodic table, bonding including formula writing and naming compounds, types of equations and balancing equations, solutions, acids and bases, organic chemistry, and nuclear chemistry. The course will emphasize practical uses of chemistry in everyday life and will include activities to strengthen and reinforce the understanding of main topics.

4035 Physics Credit: 1 credit Open to: Seniors Prerequisite: Regents Geometry and Regents Algebra 2 Physics is a one-year course designed to provide a general understanding of the fundamental principles of physics and to achieve a deeper understanding of these principles. The topics are Mechanics, Energy, Electricity and Magnetism, Wave, and Modern Physics.

SCIENCE DEPARTMENT 4046 AP Biology Credit: 1 credit Open to: Juniors and Seniors Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation and successful completion of Regents Biology and Chemistry is required. Additional Cost: $95 AP exam fee in 2021 – slight increase each year set by College Board AP Biology is a multi-disciplined college level course. Major topics include molecules and cells, heredity and evolution, some human physiology, and organisms and populations. Hands-on laboratory experiments are a component of the course. Independent research assignments and laboratory reports are included in the curriculum. An entry level assignment must be completed during the summer prior to entering the course. 4034 Forensics Credit: 0.5 for a semester Open to: Seniors This elective course provides a detailed study of forensics. A highly hands-on course, focused primarily on laboratory activities, including infamous crime scene investigation discoveries and case studies (news/forensic files) with criminal mind intentions. Students must maintain a scientific journal log. 4037 Nutrition Credit: 0.5 for a semester Open to: Seniors This course will provide basic knowledge of nutrition to help students understand the importance of nutrition, food labels and nutritional information (news/media). Topics will include metabolism, weight control, eating disorders, nutrient supplements, food fads and nutrition during the life cycle. 4045 Robotics 1 Credit: 1 credit Open to: Sophomores, Juniors and Seniors The following explorations of pre-engineering topics are covered: mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and computer engineering, mastering building, virtuoso skills in carpentry/tools/computer software, measuring techniques with graphing calculator(s) TI-84/TI92, recording with engineering journal notebooks.

SCIENCE DEPARTMENT 4047 Robotics 2 Open to: Juniors and Seniors Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation and successful completion of Robotics 1 This course prepares students for a highly competitive robotics tournament. Students should have completed Robotics 1 to be prepared for this class. Students will expect to master mechanical, electrical and computer engineering for competition style robots.

4050 Advanced Robotics Open to: Juniors and Seniors Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation and successful completion of Robotics 1 and/or robotics team member is required. This course prepares students for a highly competitive robotics tournament. Students should have completed Robotics 1 to be prepared for this class. Students will expect to master mechanical, electrical and computer engineering for competition style robots. Students will be expected to compete in the Vex Robotics scrimmages and competitions yearly. Students must have an engineering notebook and must master the software Autodesk CAD/CAM, computer generated drawings. Gracious professionalism and teamwork must be followed by the class safety guidelines FIRST (fortitude, innovation, recognition of science & technology).

4060 Anatomy & Physiology Credit: 1 credit/0.5 credit if taken for a semester Open to: Juniors and Seniors This elective course provides a detailed study of the structures and functions of the Human Body Systems and includes a comprehensive study of diseases and disorders. Students complete research projects, read scientific journals and participate in hands-on and virtual laboratory experiences.

SOCIAL STUDIES DEPARTMENT 5010 Global Studies 9 Credit: 1 credit Open to: Freshmen This is the first of a two-year chronological, cross-cultural survey of history from the ancient world to approximately 1600; it follows the New York State curriculum. Ancient, classical and early-modern civilizations of Africa, Asia, the Americas and Europe are studied with an emphasis on geography, history and culture. Students will build skills in the areas of document analysis, geography and writing in order to prepare students for the New York State Global Studies Regents Examination in June of their sophomore year 5020 Global Studies 10 Credit: 1 credit Open to: Sophomores This is the second of a two-year chronological, cross-cultural survey of history from the Scientific Revolution to the present day; it follows the New York State curriculum. Students engage in a comparative study of the geography, history, politics, economics and social structures of different regions of the world. A major emphasis in this course is the development of reading, writing, note taking, document analysis and research skills to further historical inquiry. This course of study will culminate with the Regents examination in June. 5026 AP World History Credit: 1 credit Open to: Sophomores Prerequisite: A grade of 90% in Global 9 and Teacher recommendation. Student must also qualify for English 10H. Additional Cost: $95 AP exam fee in 2021 – slight increase each year set by CollegeBoard Advanced Placement World History is a course designed to prepare students for higher learning equivalent to an introductory college course in world history. Students in AP World History will develop a greater understanding of global processes, connections, and interactions across time and place, mainly from 1200 to the present. The course is intended to provide a global view of world history by studying Europe, the Americas, Asia and Africa. The course focuses on the mastery of factual knowledge as well as the development of the analytical skills necessary for success on the Advanced Placement Exam. AP World History includes a greater amount of reading and writing and students are expected to take an active role in their learning. Students will take the AP exam in May and will also take the New York State Regents in June.

SOCIAL STUDIES DEPARTMENT 5030 United States History and Government Credit: 1 credit Open to: Juniors This course presents a survey of American History and Government from Colonial America to the present, following the New York State Curriculum. This course enables students to recognize and study basic Constitutional principles throughout history and in contemporary life, while also surveying the political, social and economic structures and events of the United States. A major part of this course is to further develop student reading, writing, note taking, document analysis and continue research skills. The Students take the New York State Regents Exam in United States History and Government at the end of this course. 5036 AP United States History and Government Credit: 1 credit Open to: Juniors Prerequisite: A grade of 90% in Global 10 or a grade of 80% in AP World and 85% on the Global Regents and teacher recommendation. Student must also qualify for AP English Language. Additional Cost: $95 AP exam fee in 2021 – slight increase each year set by College Board AP U.S. History is a survey course of American history from the age of exploration and the colonial period to the present. The AP U.S. History course is designed to evaluate the knowledge, understanding, thinking, and writing skills that would be demonstrated in a yearlong introductory college course in US History. A combination of factual knowledge and ability to analyze historical questions and themes in a critical manner is the key to a successful performance in this course. The course also includes a greater amount of reading and writing to continue to hone important skills. Students will take the AP exam in May and will also take the New York State Regents in US History in June. 5047 Economics Credit: 0.5 credit Open to: Seniors This course is a combination of micro-economics and macro-economics. It is designed to enable the students to understand the economy and how it affects their lives. The focus of the course will include economic systems, trends, cycles, and social problems that result from economic systems. There is also study of practical applications of economics, such as banking, credit cards, starting businesses, working with the stock market, and buying a house. house. This course is required of all 12th year students who are not in AP Government.

SOCIAL STUDIES DEPARTMENT

5048 Government Credit: 0.5 credit Open to: Seniors This semester-long course will help students develop a clear understanding of the political processes including the organizational structure and workings of the three branches of government, political and historical foundations of the US government, political campaigns, voting processes, public policy formation, interest groups, media influence, civil liberties and civil rights. 5046 AP US Government and Politics Credit: 1 credit Open to: Seniors Prerequisite: A grade of 90% in US History or an 80% in AP US and teacher recommendation. Additional cost: $95 AP exam fee in 2021 – slight increase each year set by College Board Student must also qualify for American Literature. This year-long, college level course will help students develop a clear understanding of the political processes including the organizational structure and workings of the three branches of government, the purposeful interconnectedness of the American government, national institutions, political and historical foundations of the US government, political campaigns, public policy formation, interest groups, media influence, voting processes, civil liberties and civil rights. This course includes additional reading and writing to continue the strengthening skills. This course will be anchored by the AP Examination for AP Government and Politics: United States. 5063 Introduction to Psychology Credit: 0.5 credit Open to: Juniors and Seniors A survey of the study of behavior and mental processes, this course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive overview of the discipline of Psychology. Students will investigate specific topics in the four of the five major domains of Psychology—methods, socio-cultural, cognitive, and bio-psychological. Students will gain an understanding of how psychology contributes to a better understanding of many societal problems today and finding positive resolutions. In addition, students will consider their own self-concept and issues relating to developing a healthy view of life.

SOCIAL STUDIES DEPARTMENT

5073 Child Psychology Credit: 0.5 credit Open to: Seniors Prerequisite: Successful completion of Intro to Psychology

Students will study the theories of growth and development in children from conception to age 3. Physical, emotional, social, and intellectual growth and development and the relationship between biology and behavior will be discussed. Theoretical viewpoints that provide students with a well-balanced view of the children’s developmental processes will be surveyed. In addition, the students will learn positive parenting skills and investigate issues including health and safety, exceptional and disabled children, child abuse and neglect.

5075 Civil Law Credit: 0.5 credit Open to: Juniors and Seniors This course is designed for students who are interested in a deeper appreciation and understanding of the law and in the practical applications of the legal system. All concepts are applied to real life situations. Discussion and debate are also an important part of this course.

5078 Business Law Credit: 0.5 credit Open to: Juniors and Seniors This course is designed for students who are interested in a deeper appreciation and understanding of the legal framework of business. All concepts are applied to real life situations.

TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT 3070 Coding Credit: 0.5 credit Open to: Juniors This course introduces students to the art and science of creating computer software. From the first week, each student creates her first working program. From then until the final project, an original videogame, she learns hands-on, working with fellow students and an on-line coding environment. Microsoft Office Suite Credit: 0.5 credit Open to: Seniors This course provides students with a fundamental understanding of Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. It equips them with the skills to perform important commercial and academic tasks including: writing a thesis; creating a set of financial statements; and constructing a compelling Board briefing. After taking the course students will be prepared to take Microsoft Office Specialist Certification Exams, demonstrating their readiness for professional careers.

THEOLOGY DEPARTMENT 1010 Theology 9: Jesus: God’s Love Made Visible Credit: 0.5 credit Open to: Freshmen This course introduces Ninth Graders to Sacred Scripture and provides them with a greater understanding of the Catholic Faith as they develop more fully their own personal relationship with God. The students begin their journey learning respect for others, the value of service and studying the life and charism of Catherine McAuley.

1020 Theology 10: Morality: Our Response to God’s Love Credit: 0.5 credit Open to: Sophomores In this course, Tenth Graders will study the Ten Commandments, the Beatitudes, and the Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy which will serve as the guidelines for moral decision making. Students will focus on Jesus as the model for their moral development and the Mercy core values They will continue to build on the Scriptural foundation of Grade Nine.

1030 Theology 11: Catholic Social Teaching: Living Out God’s Love Credit: 0.5 credit Open to: Juniors This course is Mercy in action and will lead the Eleventh Graders to a deeper understanding of the rich tradition of Catholic Social Teaching and emphasizes the Gospel values found in Scripture. The students will explore such issues as the sacredness of human life, the role of women economic justice, environmental concerns, society and global concerns of the 21st century. These lessons build on the foundation that students learned in Grades Nine and Ten. 1040 Theology 12: The Church’s Mission: The Universal Call to Love Credit: 0.5 credit Open to: Seniors This course will allow the Twelfth Graders to explore the presence of the Holy Spirit in the Church, in the world and in their own lives and will help them discover their unique path to God. They will learn the importance of having good relationships and making good decisions as they respond to their unique call from God. This curriculum builds on the content in Grades Nine, Ten and Eleven.

THEOLOGY DEPARTMENT 1060 Youth Ministry Credit: 0.5 credit Open to: Seniors This course will give students the opportunity to plan school Masses, retreats and will be responsible for writing the daily plans daily prayer announcements. Students in this class will also plan major service projects throughout the year.

STUDENT SERVICES Guidance Every SCA student meets with her guidance counselor for group guidance classes and also for scheduled individual appointments. The counselors are also available to students during the school day and students frequently come to see them during lunch time. Guidance counselors assist the students during the school year with academic needs, course selection process and precollege planning.

Grade 9 Seminar Open to: Freshmen Throughout the duration of our class, students will be exploring various "Life Skills" topics, which include, but are not limited to: mock interviews, the creation of individual student timelines, interpersonal skills, time management skills, stress management, emotional intelligence and the importance of public speaking. Life skills are not only essential in order to become a successful student but also to become a more productive member of society. Students will also have the opportunity to familiarize themselves more with the iPads, particularly google classroom, where many of their assignments can be found.

HAP Program This provides student support services for qualified students. Small group academic support will be provided during the school day as mandated on the student's IESP. (Individual education plan - SETTS) Other support services such as Extended time on Exams, Separate location/ small group testing, and directions / questions read as needed - Must be approved yearly by the academic dean and guidance counselors with appropriate documentation and/or mandated through the Committee on Special Education through the Board of Education of the City of New York.