Taipei American School Upper School Course Catalog | SY24-25

TAS UPPER SCHOOL

COURSE CATALOGUE 2024-2025

Ms. Becky Read

Mr. Ryan Haynes

Principal Director of US Personal / Academic Counseling

extension: 213 extension: 224

email: readb@tas.edu.tw email: haynesr@tas.edu.tw

Dr. Evelyn Chen

Ms. Melanie Brennand Hamre

Associate Principal Director of US College Counseling

extension: 214

email: chene@tas.edu.tw

Dr. Jill Fagen

extension: 228

email: hamrem@tas.edu.tw

Ms. Meagan Frazier

Associate Principal IB/AP Coordinator

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email: fagenj@tas.edu.tw

extension: 222

email: frazierm@tas.edu.tw

Dear Students and Families,

We are excited to have a wide range of course offerings to meet the academic needs and interests of our students. The 2024-25 TAS Upper School Course Catalog includes more tools to guide students and their families in making informed decisions about course selection. If you have any questions about your unique situation, please reach out to your Personal and Academic Counselor, or your College Counselor (if you are a Junior).

You will find several new courses being offered in 2024-25. They include:

• Honors European History and Western Political Thought (USST42)

• IBHL Economics Year 1 (USST251)

• IBHL Economics Year 2 (USST252)

• Honors Research in Data Science (UCSR060)

• Honors Painting (UART72H)

• Honors Virtual Reality (UART81H)

• Engineering as Service Learning (UCSR07)

• Taiwan, China, and the USA (USST45)

There are also a few changes, that we hope will give students greater flexibility.

• AP Art History (UART32) will now qualify as a history elective or an art credit.

• IB Diploma Students no longer need to take US History as their Group 3 choice and may select from a host of Group 3 options.

• English Honors 9, as announced on November 27th, will become a revised and standardized English 9 course.

• Students in grades 9 seeking greater challenge in English may avail themselves of Honors Journalism or Honors Creative Writing, in addition to their English 9 course.

• Greek History and Roman History, which have not run for the last 3 years due to lack of interest, will be replaced by the above-mentioned Honors European History and Western Political Thought (USST42)

• Students taking Algebra 1 as 9th graders may opt to take Geometry in either their 10th or 11th grade years.

• Students taking Geometry in 9th grade will have the option, if appropriate, to take one of our three calculus classes. Calculus AB and Calculus BC students may take Honors Modern Topics. This alleviates the need for students to take math for credit during the summer.

This is an exciting time for students to explore and find new interests. Some of you may already know a direction that you want to pursue in university, and you may be looking to strengthen your foundation in that area. Others of you will want a broader experience, and we know that many students matriculating to American universities enter as undecided, which is also very exciting. You may seek a wider variety of courses. Either way, you will find courses on offer at TAS that both meet your needs and spark your interests.

We will meet with you in March to explain more about the course selection process. Please be thoughtful about your interests, extra-curriculars, and other commitments when selecting courses. The right balance will keep you challenged, build your college resume, and give you time for personal and family fulfillment. While you will be able to drop courses during Quarter 1, we remind you there must be compelling reasons for such change.

Best Regards,

Becky Read Upper School Principal

Our Mission and Values

Lifelong Learning

American & Global Perspectives

Honesty

Personal Well-being

Committed to Character

MISSION VALUES

Kindness

Service to Others

And Making the World a Better Place

Respect

Courage Responsibility

The TAS Schoolwide Learning Outcomes

In addition to a strong academic program, and a focus on personal well-being, we strive to support learners in being:

1. Critical and Creative Thinkers who:

• Analyze and synthesize information from multiple reliable sources, evaluate evidence, and make informed decisions.

• Identify and understand problems, breaking them down into smaller components to develop possible solutions.

• Generate ideas, products, and experiences that demonstrate innovation.

• Demonstrate curiosity about the world, ask questions, and seek out new information and perspectives.

2. Self-Directed Learners who:

• Take initiative and proactively seek opportunities for self-growth and development.

• Design a plan to accomplish goals based on priorities.

• Utilize time, manage workload, and complete tasks efficiently with greater independence.

• Demonstrate persistence and resilience using a variety of strategies.

3. Collaborative Communicators who:

• Listen actively, considering different perspectives, ideas, and values.

• Articulate ideas clearly and effectively to diverse audiences through oral, written, digital, and creative expression.

• Recognize, understand, and regulate individual emotions, as well as responding with empathy to the emotions of others.

• Take responsibility for achieving common goals through teamwork and shared contributions.

4. Well-Balanced Individuals who:

• Maintain a healthy balance between academic demands, physical activity, personal relationships, digital experiences, and interests.

• Implement strategies to manage stress, prioritize self-care, and develop resilience to achieve overall well-being.

• Adapt to changing circumstances, embrace new ideas and opportunities, and learn from experience.

• Cultivate a sense of belonging for oneself and others.

5. Globally-Minded Contributors who:

• Understand and respect diverse cultures, customs, and beliefs.

• Advocate for inclusive practices that promote diversity, equity and justice.

• Critically research information on local and global issues and take action to positively impact others.

THE UPPER SCHOOL CURRICULUM

Mission Statement

Taipei American School’s mission is to cultivate an enduring commitment to learning, personal well-being, and service. We provide a broad American-based education with a global perspective that develops students of character who are committed to making the world a better place.

Course Selection and Course Load

Students select courses in consultation with their teachers, personal and academic counselors, and families. Students take between six (minimum) and eight (maximum) courses at a time. Grade 11 and grade 12 students may take five courses if they have three or more AP or IB courses, or if they have four TAS core courses in their schedule.

TAS students must complete 22 credits earned in grades 9 – 12. Please see the 4 Year Program Planning form in the back of this catalog to help guide the decision-making process.

The Daily Schedule

The upper school schedule is on a 2-day cycle and alternates between an A day and a B day. There are five 80 minute periods in a school day and a daily flex period during which advisory, class gatherings, and club meetings are held. Please see the sample school schedule below.

Schedule Balancing Period

After students have completed the course selection process in early Spring, students will receive a draft of their course schedule in May. At this time, students may contact their counselor to discuss the balancing of schedules and the adding and dropping of courses to their schedule within the designated time period established by the Personal and Academic Counseling department. The adding and dropping of courses is based on the availability of course sections and a student’s schedule.

Course Adjustment Period

The Course Adjustment Period is a time for dropping a course or if a teacher initiates a level change. Students are welcome to drop courses and speak with their counselor about the compelling circumstances that may require a course adjustment. This is not a time to add courses, to discuss the balancing of courses, and

lunch periods. This Course Adjustment Period allows teachers to begin instruction more effectively, have less disruption with students coming and going from class, and allow students to settle into the new year more smoothly and timely.

Course Withdrawal After Quarter 1

If a student drops a class after the end of Quarter 1, it will be designated on their transcript with a "W" indicating that a student withdrew. This firm deadline helps facilitate better conversations earlier in the semester between students, counselors, teachers, and families.

Homework Guidelines

Although a wide variety of courses are available, students are encouraged to look closely at the academic expectations and homework load for each course in order to plan for a balanced schedule, including consideration of maintaining study across core subject areas. Each course description includes a statement about how much time students can expect to spend on homework. The following is a guideline for average number of minutes per class meeting in the course of a week.

Light up to 30 minutes

Moderate up to 60 minutes Heavy up to 90 minutes

AP and IB courses usually require more homework than other courses. IB classes usually require projects in addition to the daily class assignments.

Putting It all Together...

We encourage students to use the Balance of Life Worksheet on the next page to help them think through their full student experience. We encourage students and families to think through extracurricular activities, family commitments, and other pursuits outside of school. Make adjustments to establish balance and help ensure students have time to take good care of themselves – eat well, exercise, and sleep well.

BALANCE OF LIFE WORKSHEET

Filling out this worksheet can give you a realistic view of your planned 2024-2025 schedule of class work, co-curricular involvements, study, home responsibilities, exercise, and sleep. Be mindful and deliberate about your overall schedule and your in-school and outside-school activities. Make adjustments to establish balance and to protect against over-commitment that could negatively affect your health and academic success.

Homework Guidelines

Each course description includes a statement about the amount of time students can expect to spend on homework. The following is a guideline for average number of minutes per class meeting during the course of a week.

Light up to 30 minutes

Moderate up to 60 minutes

Heavy up to 90 minutes

AP and IB courses usually require more homework than other courses. IB classes usually require projects that are done in addition to the “daily” class assignments.

Things to Consider &

How much sleep are you getting and is it enough?

How do you organize your weekends?

Do you get to spend quality time with people you care about?

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

Four years of upper school attendance are required with a minimum of 22 credits to be earned in grades 9 – 12. New this year: IB Diploma candidates do not need to take US History, although they may choose to. Credits are awarded on a semester basis. The required 22 credits must include the following:

English

Grade 9: English 9

Grade 10: English 10 or Honors English 10

Grade 11 and 12: Full-year courses each year.

4 credits

Computer Science & Robotics

0.5 credit

Note: Journalism and Creative Writing Workshop do NOT fulfill this requirement.

Public Speaking

1 credit Students may satisfy the requirement by taking any of the following courses:

• Public Speaking, Debate, and Performance

• International Relations or Honors International Relations

• Honors Global Politics or IB Global Politics

• Honors: Introduction to American Law

• AP Seminar and AP Research

• 2 years of Theatre classes

• IB Diploma students fulfill the requirement automatically through IB Core Year 2

Note that students may NOT satisfy both the public speaking and the performing & visual arts requirements with the same course.

History & Social Studies

Grade 9: History of Asia

Grade 10: Modern World History or AP World History

3 credits

All courses offered in the Computer Science and Robotics Department satisfy the graduation requirement.

Science

Grade 9: Physics

Grade 10: Chemistry

Grade 11: Biology

Full year course in each required for graduation

Performing Arts or Visual Arts

3 credits

Grade 11: United States History, AP United States History, IBHL US History 1, and History of Minorities in America courses.

Mathematics

3 Credits

3 credits

1 credit

This requirement can be fulfilled by taking visual arts and/or performing arts courses that total 1 credit.

Note that students may NOT satisfy both the public speaking and the performing & visual arts requirements with the same course.

World Languages

3rd year proficiency

Health and Physical Education

Required for ninth and tenth grade students

2 credits

The balance of the required credits will be made up of elective courses.

We recommend using this form to make a tentative plan for the student’s four-year academic experience that will fulfill TAS graduation requirements, provide appropriate rigor and challenge, establish a strong record for admission to and success in college, and ensure that appropriate foundation courses are taken to qualify the student to take desired advanced classes.

TAS Curriculum University Requirement Guidelines

The following charts are meant to be a reference guide only for students who intend on studying certain majors outside the US (UK and Canada, primarily). Please note that “undecided” is a valid and popular option for students intending on studying in the US.

These guidelines are not intended to be a definitive guide or prescription on what courses students “must” take! Please speak with your Personal & Academic Counselor and/or a College Counselor for specific information about your academic situation, intended country destination for university, and intended majors or programs.

General Points to Consider

For students interested in attending US-based universities:

• The overall rigor of the TAS curriculum is already seen as quite strong and competitive for holistic admissions practiced by most colleges in the United States; diverse course selections shows that a student is able to select from the many exciting and unique courses offered in high school, just as they will be asked to do once in college.You do not have to take AP or IB courses for admission to US universities!

• The full IB Diploma programme is seen as equal to and just as valuable (sometimes more, depending on the university!) as the AP curriculum by US universities. That is, the AP is not only for students who want to study in the US and the IB is not only for those who want to study outside the US. In fact, UK universities offer very clear entry paths for students studying AP courses and some schools will not accept stand-alone IB exam scores in place of AP scores. Colleges in the US will generally not have specific requirements for the Full IB Diploma but depending on the major and a school’s selectivity, they may prefer certain courses/subjects.

• Students do NOT need to know what course or major they want to pursue in order to be admitted to US universities. In fact, most students entering college in the United States enter as “undecided” and most college admissions assume that high school students might not even be aware of the many majors or choices that will be available to them once in college. Being open-minded and curious is a valuable trait, as is genuine intellectual curiosity and flexibility in exploring new ideas.

For students interested in attending UK universities (solely, or in addition to other countries):

• UK universities offer very clear entry paths and requirements for students who want to study specific courses. For students applying from a US-based curriculum such as TAS, this typically means AP courses. Consider a schedule with at least 4-5 AP classes taken over the course of your 10th - 12th grade years or the full IB diploma. Individual IB certificates are generally not used for entry requirements in the UK and some schools will not accept IB exams in place of AP scores.

For students interested in attending Canadian universities:

• Most Canadian universities look at courses and grades earned in years 10-12, with particular emphasis on courses taken in Grades 11-12.

STEM programs in Non-US universities (Canada, UK, Europe, other countries):

Avoid IB Math Applications and Interpretations SL (Math AI SL) as it is not considered for many STEM programs outside the US, especially those in Canada, the UK, and Australia.

If a student is interested in pursuing higher education in Europe (non-UK) or elsewhere in the world, please speak with a college counselor as countries and universities and even specific programs differ in their entrance requirements.

GENERAL UNIVERSITY REQUIREMENTS

Recommendations for AP / IB Mix Curriculum (Non IB Diploma)

Please use this as a general reference only. It is important to speak with your Personal & Academic Counselor as well as a College Counselor for specific situations, destinations, and majors/program intentions! These are recommendations only.

Course of Interest UK**

Architecture (may require portfolio, interview or exam)

Art and Design

Business/ Management/ Commerce

Economics

Computer Science

Engineering

(Requirements will differ for different engineering majors)

Recommend AP Art and AP Calculus, Honors Architecture.

Highly selective universities may prefer AP BC and AP Physics.

Canada**

BS in Architecture is not as common in Canada.

Recommend AP Art and a minimum of AP AB Calculus.

Will require a portfolio. Recommend AP Art.

Recommend AP Calculus.

Highly selective universities may prefer AP BC Calculus.

Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics)

Recommend AP Calculus.

Highly selective universities may prefer AP BC Calculus.

Recommend AP Calculus.

Highly selective universities may require AP BC Calculus.

Recommend AP Calculus and AP Physics.

Highly selective universities may prefer or require AP BC Calculus and AP Physics C.

Biology: AP Biology but some courses might require AP Chemistry.

Chemistry: AP Chemistry.

Physics: AP Physics. Highly selective will prefer Physics C.

Recommend AP Calculus. Highly selective universities may prefer AP BC Calculus.

*At non-selective universities, there are options for students without AP Calculus.

Economics will likely fall under Bachelor of Arts.

Recommend a minimum of Calculus.

Recommend AP Calculus.

Highly selective universities may prefer AP BC Calculus.

Recommend AP Calculus, AP Chemistry, and AP Physics.

Highly selective universities may require Chemistry, Calculus, and Physics taken in last two years of high school.

Recommend Calculus and AP science in relevant subjects.

Medicine/ Veterinary Science/ Dental

Recommend AP Calculus, AP Chemistry, AP Biology, and a science research elective.

Not available as an undergraduate option.

If thinking preparation for Pre-Health, recommend AP Chemistry and Biology or IBHL Chemistry and Biology

**Specific requirements for universities in the UK and Canada will differ from school to school.

GENERAL UNIVERSITY REQUIREMENTS

Recommendations for Full IB Diploma Curriculum (frequently pursued courses/programs)

Please use this as a general reference only. It is important to speak with your Personal & Academic Counselor as well as a College Counselor for specific situations, destinations, and majors/program intentions! These are recommendations only.

Course of Interest UK**

Architecture (may require portfolio, interview or exam)

Art and Design

Business/ Management/ Commerce

Economics

Computer Science (IB Computer Science not required)

Engineering (Requirements will differ for different engineering majors)

Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics)

*If interested in Physics, see note above

Require HL Visual Arts.

Recommend HL Math, Honors Architecture.

Canada**

Require HL Visual Arts.

Recommend minimum SL Math AA.

Will require a portfolio. Recommend IBHL Visual Art.

No specific requirements.

For selective universities, recommend SL Math AA at a minimum.

Require HL Math.

Require HL Math.

Medicine

Require HL Math and AP Physics 2 or C in addition to full IB.

Recommend HL Chemistry.

Require IB HL course in relevant science major.

Recommend both HL Biology and Chemistry.

Recommend minimum IBSL Math AA.

Require HL Chemistry and HL Biology.

Recommend minimum IBSL Math AA.

Recommend IBHL Math.

Require at a minimum IBSL Math AA.

May require SL Math AA.

Recommend a minimum IBSL Math AA.

Highly selective universities prefer either HL Math.

Require HL Math.

Recommend HL Chemistry and AP Physics 2 or C in addition to full IB.

Require IB HL course in relevant science major.

Recommend both HL Biology and Chemistry.

Recommend minimum IBSL Math AA.

Not available as an undergraduate option.

If thinking preparation for Pre-Health, recommend IB HL Chemistry and/or Biology

**Specific requirements for universities in the UK and Canada will differ from school to school.

Computer Science & Robotics

Credit

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Advanced Placement (AP) Courses

HON RESP RESPON

Taipei American School offers more than thirty Advanced Placement courses in a variety of subject areas. An approved curriculum is followed, and a standardized external examination prepared and scored by The College Board is administered by TAS in May of each year. College websites usually contain an accurate description of an institution’s policy on placement and what academic credit, if any, is awarded for an Advanced Placement examination score. Additionally, only students who are enrolled in the AP course may sit the AP exam at TAS.

Advanced Placement (AP) Capstone Diploma

The AP Capstone Certificate is comprised of two courses, AP Seminar and AP Research, that are designed to complement and enhance discipline specific study in other AP courses. Students who complete the two AP Capstone courses (AP Seminar and AP Research) and earn a score of 3 or higher on four additional AP exams will earn the Capstone Diploma.

History & Social Studies

Social Sciences

Mathematics

English

Science

Computer Science & Robotics

World Languages

AP COURSE OFFERINGS

United States History

Economics

European History

World History: Modern Art History

Psychology

US Government & Politics/Public Policy

Seminar

Research

Statistics

Calculus AB

Calculus BC

English Literature & Composition

English Language & Composition

Chemistry

Physics 1

Physics 2

Physics C (Mechanics, E & M)

Environmental Science Biology

Computer Science A

Spanish Language & Culture

Spanish Literature & Culture

Chinese Language & Culture

Japanese Language & Culture

Latin

Visual Arts

Performing Arts

All students who take AP courses must sit the AP exam in order to receive AP credit and weighted grade.

AP Capstone Diploma TM

Students earn a 3 or higher in both AP Capstone courses and on 4 additional AP exams of their choosing.

Art History Drawing 2D Art & Design 3D Art & Design

Music Theory

AP CAPSTONE CURRICULUM

AP SEMINAR (Year 1)

Team Project & Presentation

Individual Research-Based Essay & Presentation

End-of-Course Exam

AP RESEARCH (Year 2)

Academic Paper Presentation & Oral Defense

4 AP COURSES & EXAMS (Taken at any point throughout high school)

AP Seminar and Research Certificate TM

Students earn a 3 or higher in both AP Capstone courses but not on the 4 additional AP exams will receive certificates.

International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program (DP)

The International Baccalaureate program is a two-year pre-university course of study that culminates with the IB Diploma. The awarding of an IB Diploma is contingent upon successful examination results in six subjects – three at Higher Level, and three at Standard Level. The six subjects must include English, a second language, individuals and societies, experimental science, mathematics, plus an additional arts, language, science, or social studies course.

IB Diploma candidates must also satisfactorily complete the Diploma Core which consists of Theory of Knowledge (a course which unifies and interconnects the other six courses through a philosophical perspective), write an Extended Essay, and participate in CAS (Creativity, Activity, and Service) experience, and complete a CAS project.

All students who wish to pursue the IB diploma may do so and will be advised on appropriate programs of study by the gradelevel personal and academic counselor and the IB coordinator.

In all IB courses, a prescribed curriculum is followed, and a standardized external examination prepared by the IB is administered by TAS in May of each year. College websites usually contain an accurate description of an institution’s policy on placement and what academic credit, if any, is awarded for an IB examination score and/or for completing the DP. Additionally, only students who are enrolled in the IB course may sit the IB exam at TAS.

IB Diploma candidates do not need to take US History, although they may choose to.

International Baccalaureate (IB) Courses

Students may elect to enroll in individual IB courses without pursuing the full diploma. Successful completion of the course, and the corresponding IB exam, will result in the awarding of an IB certificate. In order to take the IB exam, a student must take the IB course for years 1 and 2 if they are offered.

Group 2

Language Acquisition

Chinese Japanese

Group 1

Studies in Language & Literature

All students who take IB courses must sit the external IB exam in order to receive IB credit and weighted grade.

Group 3 Individual and Societies

Group 5 Mathematics

IB COURSE OFFERINGS

Group 1 Studies in Languages & Literature (Literature Based)

Group 2 Language Acquisition (Communications Based)

Group 3 Individuals and Society

Group 4 Experimental Sciences

Group 5 Mathematics

Group 6 the Arts (Diploma Candidates must take either a Group 6 or a second subject from Groups 2, 3, or 4)

English Language & Literature SL, HL English Literature SL, HL Chinese A Language & Literature SL, HL

Spanish B: SL, HL, ab initio

Japanese B: SL, ab initio

Chinese B: SL, HL, ab initio Greek and Latin: SL, HL

History SL, HL Global Politics SL, HL Psychology SL, HL World Religions SL Economics HL

Biology SL, HL Chemistry SL, HL Sports, Exercise & Health Science SL

Math: Applications & Interpretation SL, HL Math: Analysis & Approaches SL, HL

Dance SL, HL Theatre SL, HL Visual Art SL, HL Film Studies SL, HL Music SL, HL

IB Core (Only available to diploma students in Gr. 11 and 12)

* We also have additional course offerings available for online instruction. Students who want to learn more should speak with the IB/AP Coordinator.

Honors Courses

An “honors course” is for students who are looking for enrichment and are excited to learn more deeply about that subject. It is taught to the same learning objectives as a standard course, while requiring more higher-level skills such as conceptual development (synthesis), in-depth analysis and metacognition. These courses may be taught at an increased pace if they are a pre-requisite for more targeted courses. Student learning is evaluated through authentic assessment and multi-step and multistage assignments.

ENGLISH 9-12

English is required in each of the four years in the upper school at Taipei American School. The goal of English study at TAS is to inspire students to become life-long readers and learners. Students will work to develop a global perspective as they are introduced to a wide range of voices, cultures, and texts. Content varies by course, but generally includes instruction in reading and analyzing literature, analytical and expressive writing, discussing ideas in groups, and delivering oral presentations. Students are required to purchase personal copies of books in literature courses.

ENGLISH 9 (UENG01)

Required

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 9

Homework: Moderate

Through the study of personal essays, poetry, drama, and novels, English 9 explores what it means to come of age, to have a voice, and to have agency. We ask, and attempt to answer, what it means to grow up and to read the world critically. As a foundational English course, English 9 focuses on analytical writing, reading, and speaking. Close reading and passage analysis constitute the focus for the fall semester; in the spring, students build on those skills to tackle more complex texts like Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Class discussions and student-run seminars are important components of the courses. Assessments take the form of timed writing, process essays, and creative projects, providing students with a variety of ways to demonstrate their learning.

Texts may include the following: Gao, Messy Roots; Homer/ Wilson, The Odyssey; Shakespeare, Romeo and Juliet; Cisneros, The House on Mango Street; selection of non-fiction, poetry, and short stories.

If there’s a book you really want to read, but it hasn’t been written yet, then you must write it”

Toni Morrison

AP English Literature & Composition

Gr. 12

English 10

AP English Language & Composition

Gr. 11-12

ENGLISH 10 (UENG02)

Required

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 10

Homework: Moderate

ENGLISH FLOW CHART

English 9

IBSL English Language & Literature Year 1-2; IBSL English Literature

Year 1-2

Gr. 11-12

Honors English 10

IBHL English Language & Literature Year 1-2; IBHL English Literature

Year 1-2

Gr. 11-12

English 10 develops essential critical thinking and language skills. The course is built upon the premise that language has power, and students will analyze how language is used as an effective and powerful tool in three important areas: reading, writing, and speaking. Literature will focus on characters and narrators that are forced to face personal or sociopolitical issues. Students will express their ideas in argument-driven, analytic essays as well as class discussions.

Texts may include: Cho, Kim Jiyoung, Born 1982; Satrapi, Persepolis; Orwell, Animal Farm; Shakespeare, Macbeth; Hamid, The Reluctant Fundamentalist; selected poetry and short Stories

Asian Literature; Honors Asian Literature; American Literature; Honors American Literature; World Literature; Honors World Literature;

Gr. 11, 12

Electives: these courses are supplementary and do not count for “Core” English credit.

Honors Journalism 1-4

Gr. 9-12

Creative Writing Workshop 1; Honors Creative Writing Workshop 1-4;

Gr. 9-12

HONORS ENGLISH 10 (UENG03)

Required

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 10

Homework: Heavy

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation is required.

Honors English 10 is a foundational course that builds on the students’ prior skillsets while also preparing them for future upperlevel courses. As such, emphasis is placed on argumentation and discernment in choosing evidence not only for written assessments but also oral presentations. Critical reading literacy in a variety of genres is a major component of the course to prepare students to showcase mastery of synthesizing higher order ideas across texts and disciplines. Students should also be able to demonstrate greater independent initiative when handling texts and when expressing ideas in class discussions. Texts for the Honors English 10 course, organized by genre, explore the extent to which language can be used in powerful ways to persuade us, to move us, and to aid us in instituting social change.

Texts may include: Cho, Kim Jiyoung, Born 1982; Satrapi, Persepolis; Orwell, 1984; Shakespeare, Othello; selected Poetry, Short Stories, and Prose

AP ENGLISH LANGUAGE & COMPOSITION (UENG13)

Elective

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 11-12

Homework: Heavy

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation is required.

In this course students will have the opportunity to engage in a close study of a variety of nonfiction works. Students in AP English Language will become critical readers and skilled writers who are able to identify and explicate an author’s purpose and use of rhetorical strategies. One of the many goals of this college-level course is to prepare students to write effectively and compellingly about topics across all disciplines, a practice in which they will likely regularly engage in the future, in both educational

and professional contexts. In May, all students will take the AP Language and Composition Exam.

Texts may include: Thoreau, Walden; Roose, Futureproof: 9 Rules for Humans in the Age of Automation; McGhee, The Sum of Us; selected essays and speeches.

AP ENGLISH LITERATURE & COMPOSITION (UENG23)

Elective

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 12

Homework: Heavy

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation and successful completion of AP English Language & Composition or permission of the Department Chair.

This college-level course explores important themes in literature in an intertextual context, with a particular focus on English as a language of both colonialism and resistance. Reading, critical thinking, seminar discussion, and writing are all essential elements of the course, and students should expect to be assessed regularly on each one. Major assessments primarily take the form of timed in-class essays, however there will also be frequent formative writing assignments, both inside and outside of class, to help students build the skills and confidence they need to excel on these assessments. In addition to course texts, readings will also include selections from works of critical theory. The class is for mature readers with open minds who are comfortable with engaging with intellectually, politically, and emotionally challenging texts within a supportive classroom community.

Texts may include: Conrad, Heart of Darkness; Achebe, Things Fall Apart; Wilde, The Importance of Being Earnest; Edson, W;t; Brontë, Jane Eyre; Hwang, M. Butterfly; Yu, Interior Chinatown; Miller, Death of a Salesman; Nottage, Sweat; Gao, Messy Roots; Poetry and essays selected by the teacher.

IBHL ENGLISH LITERATURE YEAR 1 (UENG14)

IBHL ENGLISH LITERATURE YEAR 2 (UENG24)

IBSL ENGLISH LITERATURE YEAR 1 (UENG15)

IBSL ENGLISH LITERATURE YEAR 2 (UENG25)

Elective

Duration: 2 years

Credit: 2

Grade: 11 & 12

Homework: Heavy

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation is required. Students will select either the IBHL or IBSL level of the course for both years.

IB English Literature is primarily a rigorous pre-university course in literature. As the International Baccalaureate Organization notes, the study of literature “enables an exploration of one of the more enduring fields of human creativity and artistic ingenuity, and provides immense opportunities for encouraging independent, original, critical and clear thinking." It also promotes a healthy respect for the imagination and a perceptive approach to the understanding and interpretation of literary works. The discussion of literature is itself an art which requires the clear expression of ideas both orally and in writing. The program encourages students to see literary works as products of art and their authors as craftspeople whose methods of production can be analyzed in a variety of ways and on a number of levels. This is achieved through the emphasis placed on exploring the means used by different authors to convey their subjects in the works studied. It is further reinforced by the comparative framework emphasized for the study of these works in all parts of the program. The flexibility of the program allows teachers to choose challenging works from their own sources to suit the particular needs and interests of their students. During the course of two years, students will be assessed in a variety of written and oral formats. Higher Level (HL) students will submit an additional written assessment to the IBO and undertake an additional unit of study each semester.

Texts may include: Duffy, The World’s Wife; Adichie, The Thing Around Your Neck; Fitzgerald, The Great Gatsby; Shakespeare, Twelfth Night; Su Tong, Raise the Red Lantern; Morrison, Sula; Yu, Interior Chinatown; Camus, The Stranger; Ogawa, The Memory Police.

IBHL ENGLISH LANGUAGE & LITERATURE YEAR 1 (UENG17)

IBHL ENGLISH LANGUAGE & LITERATURE YEAR 2 (UENG27)

IBSL ENGLISH LANGUAGE & LITERATURE YEAR 1 (UENG16)

IBSL ENGLISH LANGUAGE & LITERATURE YEAR 2 (UENG26)

Elective

Duration: 2 years

Credit: 2

Grades: 11 & 12

Homework: Heavy

Prerequisites: Teacher recommendation is required. Students will select either the IBHL or IBSL level of the course for both years.

The course aims for students to develop an understanding of the role of language in the world and to develop skills of textual analysis of both literary (poetry, drama, novels, and short stories) and non-literary (essays, cartoons, advertisements, infographics, profiles, speeches, articles, films, music videos, social media posts, etc.) texts, including texts in translation. Students will be encouraged to question the meaning and aesthetic dimensions generated by language and texts based on content and context. Students will also explore how language and texts interact with each other across time and cultures. The course will examine the ways in which authors use formal and stylistic elements to create meaning in a text and consider how that meaning is shaped by circumstances of production and reception. Students will create presentations, projects, and essays in response to texts to demonstrate their critical awareness of how texts and their associated visual and audio elements work together to influence the reader/audience. Higher Level (HL) students will submit an additional written assessment to the IBO and undertake at least one extra unit of study each year.

Texts may include: Duffy, The World’s Wife; Duffy, The Bees; Kimmerer, Braiding Sweetgrass; Adichie, The Thing Around Your Neck; Hawthorne, The Scarlet Letter; Shakespeare, Twelfth Night; Euripides, Medea; Eddo-Lodge, Why I'm No Longer Talking to White People About Race; Su Tong, Raise the Red Lantern.

AMERICAN LITERATURE (UENG04)

Elective

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 11-12

Homework: Moderate

Students will apply their previously developed reading and writing skills to a representative study of American literature. The course syllabus will emphasize works that have earned a place in the literary tradition of the United States, while also including more recent writers whose works are expanding and redefining the American literary tradition. Instruction will be designed to help students respond to increasingly complex and challenging literary experiences. The composition component of the curriculum will include a heavy emphasis on journaling and practice in a wide range of writing modes. Work in practical grammar, academic writing, style, and vocabulary development will continue.

Texts may include: Fitzgerald, The Great Gatsby; Otsuka, When the Emperor Was Divine; Trethewey, Native Guard; Coates, Between the World and Me; selected essays, poems and short stories.

WORLD LITERATURE (UENG05)

Elective

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 11-12

Homework: Moderate

World Literature explores the interplay of class, gender, and race across cultures and time. Through the study of great works of Western and non-Western literature, students will gain greater perspective on their unique place within this rapidly globalizing world. This class promotes an understanding of the works in their cultural/historical contexts as well as the enduring values that unite humanity. This course is designed to challenge students as critical readers, writers, and thinkers.

Texts may include: The Epic of Gilgamesh; The Ramayana; Franz Kafka, The Metamorphosis; Athol Fugard, Tsotsi; Sayaka Murata, Convenience Store Woman; selected essays, poems and short stories.

I could live without television, but not without books”

Viet Thanh Nguyen

ASIAN LITERATURE (UENG10)

Elective

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 11 -12

Homework: Moderate

What does it mean to be Asian? What does it mean to be an Asian author? In this course, we will explore polyphonic voices from across the Asian continent and question what it means to be an Asian voice in the context of diaspora. The course aims to explore the diversity of cultures, concerns, and literary traditions across Asian cultures and to challenge the idea that Asian literature is monolithic. Students will conduct rigorous study of our texts through daily reading and writing homework assignments. Assessments will include analytical essays, student presentations, dramatic performances, and projects.

Texts may include: Eka Kurniawan, Man Tiger; Sayaka Murata, Convenience Store Woman; Su Tong, Raise the Red Lantern; Min Jin lee, Pachinko; Powles, Tiny Moons: A Year of Eating in Shanghai; Sohn, Almond; Chun-ming, The Taste of Apples; selected short stories.

HONORS AMERICAN LITERATURE (UENG04H)

Elective

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 11-12

Homework: Heavy

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation is required.

Honors American Literature will require a diligent study of a range of American literary texts with a focus on exploring the power of storytelling, the origin and propagation of social inequality, the social construction of race and gender, and the formation of cultural identity and otherness. There will be an emphasis on developing students’ critical reading and analytical writing skills. Students are expected to demonstrate independent initiative when handling texts and when expressing ideas in class discussions as well as in frequent in-class and take-home writing assignments. Reading load and homework expectations in the Honors class are significantly higher. The course syllabus will reflect works that have earned a place in the literary tradition of the United States, while also including more recent writers whose works are expanding and redefining the American literary tradition. Instruction will be designed to help students respond to increasingly complex and challenging literary experiences. The composition component of the curriculum will include practice in a wide range of writing modes.

Texts may include: Miranda, Hamilton: An American Musical; King, The Truth About Stories; Fitzgerald, The Great Gatsby; Otsuka, When the Emperor Was Divine; Hansberry, A Raisin in the Sun; selections of poetry, short stories, and essays

HONORS WORLD LITERATURE (UENG05H)

Elective

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 11 -12

Homework: Heavy Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation is required.

Honors World Literature requires a diligent study of the literary, cultural, and human significance of selected great works of classical Western and non-Western literary traditions, as well as a greater mastery of critical reading, thinking, and writing. Students should demonstrate greater independent initiative when handling texts and when expressing ideas in class discussions as well as in frequent in-class and take-home writing assignments. Reading load and homework expectations in the Honors class are significantly higher. The works studied in the course will be examined through the lens of different literary theories. An important goal of the class is to promote an understanding of the works in their cultural/historical contexts and to reveal the enduring human values which unite the different literary traditions.

Texts may include: Shelley, Frankenstein; Adiga, The White Tiger; Murata, Convenience Store Woman; Marquez, Chronicle of a Death Foretold; Soyinka, The Lion and The Jewel; Adichie, The Thing Around Your Neck; selected essays, poems and short stories.

HONORS ASIAN LITERATURE (UENG10H)

Elective

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 11 -12

Homework: Heavy

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation is required.

What does it mean to be Asian? What does it mean to be an Asian author? In this course, we will explore polyphonic voices from across the Asian continent and question what it means to be an Asian voice in the context of diaspora. The course aims to explore the diversity of cultures, concerns, and literary traditions across Asian cultures and to challenge the idea that Asian literature is monolithic. Students will conduct rigorous study of our texts through daily reading and writing homework assignments. Reading load and homework expectations in the Honors class are significantly higher. Assessments will include analytical essays, student presentations, dramatic performances, and projects.

Texts may include: Eka Kurniawan, Man Tiger; Sayaka Murata, Convenience Store Woman; Su Tong, Raise the Red Lantern; Min Jin lee, Pachinko; Powles, Tiny Moons: A Year of Eating in Shanghai; Sohn, Almond; Chun-ming, The Taste of Apples; selected short stories.

HONORS JOURNALISM 1: THE BLUE & GOLD (UENG71H)

HONORS JOURNALISM 2: THE BLUE & GOLD (UENG72H)

HONORS JOURNALISM 3: THE BLUE & GOLD (UENG73H)

HONORS JOURNALISM 4: THE BLUE & GOLD (UENG74H)

Elective

Duration: Full year

Credit: 1

Grade: 9-12

Homework: Moderate

Prerequisite: None for Honors Journalism 1

Subsequent courses to be taken in sequence

Journalism is primarily a production class dedicated to creating the student newspaper, The Blue & Gold. In this class, students will gain a broad understanding of journalism by participating in the reporting, editorial, and publication processes for digital and print newspapers. Students will study and write in various journalistic genres including news, features, and opinion, as well as produce photos, graphics, and designs to support their stories. They will use different technologies to create online, print, and audio-visual stories while learning to engage audiences across various platforms, including social media. Students will at times need to work both independently and collaboratively on all stages of newspaper production. They are expected to work as part of a

A word after a word after a word is power ”

Margaret Atwood

team, show initiative, and manage their time effectively. Students and their families should be aware that students in this class will be required to spend extra time at school: they must be able to devote several evenings or weekend days each semester to the production of The Blue & Gold. Students in Honors Journalism 2 and beyond will be expected to take on additional mentoring and leadership responsibilities. The Blue & Gold managing and editorial roles are given to students who show exemplary expertise, commitment, and leadership.

Texts may include: Harrower, Inside Reporting; Kovach and Rosenstiel, The Elements of Journalism; The Associated Press Stylebook

CREATIVE WRITING WORKSHOP 1 (UENG611)

HONORS CREATIVE WRITING WORKSHOP 1 (UENG611H)

HONORS CREATIVE WRITING WORKSHOP 2 (UENG621H)

HONORS CREATIVE WRITING WORKSHOP 3 (UENG631H)

HONORS CREATIVE WRITING WORKSHOP 4 (UENG641H)

Elective

Duration: Full year

Credit: 1

Grade: 9-12

Homework: Light for level, Moderate for Honors

Prerequisite: None for Creative Writing 1 or Honors Creative Writing 1

Subsequent courses to be taken in sequence

In this creative writing course, students will examine different forms of storytelling from a writer’s perspective and produce original work in various genres – creative nonfiction, fiction, poetry, and graphic narrative. As members of a workshop, students will share works-in-progress in a relaxed and supportive environment, while developing both the skills and sensitivity necessary to give/ receive feedback to/from their peers. This course is designed both for students who already have a passion for creative work and for those who simply want to explore different forms of writing. The majority of the writing will be done in class. Assessments will include the creation of a portfolio of work in a variety of genres and the maintenance of a journal. Honors students will be expected to submit at least three of their pieces to publications (internal and external) and student writing competitions as an exercise in sending creative work out into the world.

Texts may include work by Alexander Chee, Jhumpa Lahiri, Ross Gay, Julia Alvarez, Susan Choi, Cathy Park Hong, Elizabeth Alexander, Ken Liu, Malaka Gharib, Lynda Barry, Naomi Shihab Nye, Ada Limon, Natalie Diaz, Li Bai

Graduation Requirement:

Public Speaking: 1 credit

Students may satisfy the requirement by taking any of the following courses:

• Public Speaking, Debate, and Performance

• International Relations or Honors International Relations

• Honors Global Politics or IB Global Politics

• Honors: Introduction to American Law

• AP Seminar and AP Research

• 2 years of Theatre classes

• IB Diploma students fulfill the requirement automatically through IB Core Year 2 Note that students may NOT satisfy both the public speaking and the performing & visual arts requirements with the same course.

PUBLIC SPEAKING, DEBATE, and PERFORMANCE (UPSF012)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 9-12

*Satisfies Public Speaking requirement

Homework: Light to Moderate

Note: Class is taught in semester sections. One semester will be taught by the Social Sciences teachers and one semester will be taught by the Theatre teachers.

The ability to express, defend, and compare ideas in a confident and fact-based way is critical regardless of one’s profession or field of study. In this year-long course, students will receive formal training in effective public speaking and argumentation, as well

as examine the physiological connections between thought, breathing, the physical body, and the performative aspects of speech. By experimenting with a variety of speech types and techniques, students will be able to create effective speeches with solid openings, main points, transitions and conclusions whilst understanding the importance of audience analysis. Students will also be introduced to the structure of arguments and taught how to effectively construct, refute, and compare between them. Using NSDA Debate events as a vehicle, students will get extensive experience in a variety of formats including public forum and world schools debate. Through supportive critiques, observation of peers, rehearsal, examination of text, research, refutation, and a general understanding of presence in a room, students will be able to speak and debate confidently, fluently and prolifically in no time.

CIVICS AND CURRENT POLITICAL AND SOCIAL TOPICS (SEM. 1) (UPSF04S1)

CIVICS AND CURRENT POLITICAL AND SOCIAL TOPICS (SEM. 2) (UPSF04S2)

Duration: Students may take the class as a 1 semester or full year course.

Credit: 0.5 or 1

Grade: 9-12

Pre-req: None

Homework: Light

The world around us is rapidly evolving and keeping up with current events can be challenging, even for the most committed news junkies. This new course strives to provide students with a place to explore those news developments, engage in meaningful conversations about the hot topics of the day, and prepare to engage in the political and social systems that will impact their lives. While the specific topics for each semester will be determined by current events and student input, some examples may include elections around the world, activism in sports, the rise of misinformation and authoritarianism, criminal justice reform and other social justice movements, global responses to climate

change and health crises, and more. This course does not require previous understanding or awareness of the news, instead, its goal is to inform students about what is happening in the world around them and empower all students to be active participants in that world. Come be a part of the discussion!

AP SEMINAR (UPSF10)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 10-11

Prerequisite: None

Homework: Moderate to Heavy

AP Seminar will instruct students in the practice of research methodology, presentation skills and oral defense of argument while giving them the tools to apply those skills to real-world problems. Students will understand and think critically about social difference and social injustice, both in an individual and in a group setting. Specifically, the course will examine the role of classism and gender issues. AP Seminar will allow students to improve their argumentation, presentation skills, and research skills. Over the course of the year, students will have to complete several team research projects and presentations, a research-based essay and presentation, and take a written exam similar to other AP courses. Students should be able to act as agents of knowledge and change within and outside of their school communities. Successful completion of this course will allow students to qualify for AP Research.

AP RESEARCH (UPSF11)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 11-12

*Satisfies Public Speaking requirement

AP Research only Prerequisite: Students must have successfully completed the AP Seminar course.

Homework: Heavy

AP Research is the second year of the 2-year AP Capstone series. In this course, students further their skills from AP Seminar by independently designing, planning, and conducting a yearlong, research-based investigation related to an academic topic, problem, or issue of individual interest. Students explore their skill development, document their research processes, and curate the artifacts of the development of their scholarly work in a portfolio. The course culminates in an externally graded, academic paper of

approximately 4,000-5,000 words (accompanied by a performance or exhibition of product where applicable) and a presentation with an oral defense of approximately 15-20 minutes.

HONORS RESEARCH IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (UPSF051)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 11-12

Prerequisite: Completion of AP Seminar or Social Sciences Department approval.

Homework: Moderate to Heavy

This course will give students the opportunity to design and carry out a viable research project in the social sciences. Topics of inquiry may include, but are not limited to, subjects such as: psychology, political science, social policy, social movements, cross-cultural studies, and social change. Through the completion of their research project, students will: 1) develop their understanding of social science inquiry methods; 2) build their understanding of how to apply academic and ethical standards in research; and 3) be given the opportunity to defend and present their research. Those with especially promising projects may have the option to publish their findings in a journal or present at an academic conference. This course is ideal for students wishing to have a strong foundation in academic research and is designed to complement other research courses and programs.

NOTE: Students may use their Research in Social Science project to complete the requirements for AP Research. Students pursuing this option should enroll in both courses.

SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP (SEM. 1) (UPSF51S1)

SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP (SEM. 2) (UPSF51S2)

HONORS SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP (SEM. 1) (UPSF51HS1)

HONORS SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP (SEM. 2) (UPSF51HS2)

Duration: Students may take the class as 1 semester or full year course.

Credit: 0.5 or 1

Grade: 10-12

Prerequisite: None

Homework: Light (Heavy for Honors)

Critical thinking requires us to use our imagination, seeing things from perspectives other than our own and envisioning the likely consequences of our position.” bell hooks

Just as entrepreneurs change the face of business, social entrepreneurs act as change agents for society, seizing opportunities others miss to improve systems and invent new approaches to improving our communities and society. Through this course, students will learn how business tools and techniques, including opportunity recognition, creativity, innovation, product/ service development, marketing, entrepreneurial finance, and organizational leadership, are used to create new solutions to social problems by analyzing case studies of social entrepreneurs and social enterprises. Students will also learn by doing; they will take on the role of social entrepreneurs and identify a problem in our community, design an innovative solution, and implement their solution to make a short or long-term impact on our community.

INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS (UPSF02) HONORS INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS (UPSF02H)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 9-10 (10 for Honors)

*Satisfies Public Speaking requirement

Homework: Light for International Relations (Moderate for Honors)

Developing an understanding of how the world works is essential to understand our increasingly global and interdependent world. This course explores fundamental international relations concepts such as power, human rights, peace, and conflict in a global context. Moreover, students will develop conflict resolution and negotiation skills, emphasizing consensus-building exercises. The course content will focus on the world in its current state and adapt its focus to address issues as they arise. The course will investigate historical causes to build foundational understanding about the contemporary case studies in focus. Special attention will be given to the Asia-Pacific region whenever possible.

Honors students will be expected to complete an academic research paper or case study project each semester.

IBSL GLOBAL POLITICS (UPSF022)

IBHL GLOBAL POLITICS YEAR 1 (UPSF411)

IBHL GLOBAL POLITICS YEAR 2 (UPSF412)

HONORS GLOBAL POLITICS (UPSF40H)

Duration: Honors/IBSL: 1 year; IBHL: 2 years

Credit: 2

Grades: 11-12

*Satisfies Public Speaking requirement (in Year 2 for IB)

Homework: Moderate to Heavy

Developing international mindedness is essential in our increasingly global and interdependent world. This course explores fundamental political concepts such as power, human rights, and conflict in a global context. It allows students to develop an understanding of the local, national, international, and global dimensions of political activity, and explore political issues affecting their own lives. The course will explore four core units: Power, Sovereignty, and International Relations; Human Rights; Development; and Peace & Conflict, helping students understand abstract political concepts with real-world examples and case studies. Moreover, students will develop conflict resolution and negotiation skills, emphasizing consensus-building exercises.

IBSL students will undertake an engagement activity through which they study a political issue of interest experientially. IBHL year 2 students must complete an in-depth research presentation on two themes studied.

AP US GOVERNMENT & POLITICS/PUBLIC POLICY (UPSF062)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 11-12

Homework: Moderate to Heavy

The AP U.S. Government & Politics course provides an analytical perspective on government and politics in the United States. The course introduces key political concepts, ideas, institutions, policies, interactions, roles, and behaviors that characterize the constitutional system and political culture of the United States. The course is designed to equip students with the tools they need to be active participants in the American political system as they gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for civic engagement.

Once provided with that foundational knowledge and conceptual framework, students will engage in more nuanced evaluation of some of the policy questions currently dominating politics in the United States. While specific topics will be dictated by current events, students can expect at least some discussion of federal spending issues, the social safety net, and social issues that are featured in contemporary news coverage.

SOCIAL SCIENCES FLOW CHART

Global Issues

- International Relations

- Honors International Relations

- Honors Global Politics

- IBSL Global Politics

- IBHL Global Politics 1+2

- AP US Government & Politics/Public Policy

- Civics And Current Political And Social Topics

- Seminar: World Religions

- Honors Seminar: World Religions

- IBSL World Religions

Social Entrepreneurship

- Social Entrepreneurship

- Honors Social Entrepreneurship

Research and Public Speaking

- Public Speaking, Debate, & Performance

- AP Seminar

- AP Research

- Honors Research in Social Science

IB Core

- IB Core (TOK, CAS, EE) 1

- IB Core (TOK, CAS, EE) 2

Psychology

- AP Psychology

- IBSL Psychology

- IBHL Psychology 1+2

IB CORE (TOK, CAS, EE) YEAR 1 (UPSF31)

IB CORE (TOK, CAS, EE) YEAR 2 (UPSF32)

Required for all IB Diploma candidates

Duration: 2 years

Credit: 1 per year

Grade: 11-12

*Satisfies Public Speaking requirement (in Year 2)

Prerequisite: IB Diploma Student

Homework: Moderate

The IB Core class comprises (a) the Theory of Knowledge (TOK) course, (b) time and support to help students complete the Extended Essay (EE) and (c) time to introduce and provide guidance to students on how to independently complete their Creativity, Action, Service (CAS) requirements. These three components of the course together make up what the IB refers to as the "core" of the IB Diploma program. Most classes will focus on the Theory of Knowledge component that investigates the nature of knowledge with specific focus on the areas of knowledge (AOKs) of the Natural and Human Sciences, History, the Arts, and Mathematics. The TOK course places particular emphasis on questioning knowledge claims, examining evidence, applying analytical reasoning, and writing analytically in an evaluation of the central question of “How do we know?”. In Year 1, students will complete the required TOK Exhibition while also researching and writing the Extended Essay. In Year 2, students will submit the Extended Essay, complete the TOK essay, and complete and present the CAS portfolio. IB Diploma candidates will also fulfill the TAS public speaking requirement as part of the two-year IB Core class.

Note: due to PowerSchool system conifiguration, IB Core Year 1 is still listed as IB Theory of Knowledge 1 in PowerSchool.

AP PSYCHOLOGY (UPSF21)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 11-12

Prerequisite: Recommendation from current history teacher OR current Social Sciences Department teacher, OR completion of or concurrent enrollment in the following courses: AP History, AP Biology, or AP Environmental Science.

Homework: Moderate to Heavy

AP Psychology is an academically challenging introduction to the study of human behavior and mental processes. The course offers a broad and varied survey of psychological concepts and theorists, including research methods, biopsychology, sensation and perception, states of consciousness, learning, cognition, motivation and emotion, development, personality, abnormality, and social psychology. As such, it offers a one- year introduction to Psychology as a discipline at the college/university level. Students are required to take the external AP exam upon completion of the course. Both Psychology and AP Psychology courses are embedded in the same classroom. Assignments and assessments will be differentiated accordingly.

IBSL PSYCHOLOGY (UPSF22)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 11-12

Prerequisite: None

Homework: Heavy

IBHL PSYCHOLOGY YEAR 1 (UPSF241)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 11

Prerequisite: None

Homework: Heavy

IBSL Psychology introduces students to the scientific study of human behavior and mental processes using an integrative approach. Topics such as memory, cognition, cognitive biases, conformity, stereotyping, and enculturation will be examined through the interaction of biological, cognitive, and socio-cultural influences on human behavior. The course emphasizes the discussion and evaluation of research and ethics, and students will design and conduct an experimental study on human behavior to assess their understanding of experimental methodology.

Get in good, necessary trouble.”

John Lewis

Additionally, the topic of abnormal psychology will be studied in detail, including investigation of depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, phobias and eating disorders. Students are required to take the IBSL Psychology external examination upon completion of the course.

* NOTE: IBHL Psychology Year 1 is part of the two-year sequence; students take the external exam during the second year.

IBHL PSYCHOLOGY YEAR 2 (UPSF242)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 12

Prerequisite: Successful completion of IBSL Psychology or IBHL Psychology Year 1

Homework: Heavy

This course is a continuation of IBSL Psychology. The core units from the prior year are elaborated upon to study the role of animal research in understanding human behavior, cognitive processing in a digital world, and the influence of globalization on individual behaviors. Students will also investigate the psychology of human relationships, including topics like altruism, bystanderism, attraction, prejudice, and violence, and will embark on an extended study into topics from abnormal psychology. As a second-year course, IBHL Psychology will be student driven with an emphasis on project-based learning and seminar-style discussion. Students are required to take the IBHL Psychology external examination upon completion of the course.

HONORS: INTRODUCTION TO AMERICAN LAW (UPSF16)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 11-12

*Satisfies Public Speaking requirement

Prerequisite: None Homework: Moderate

Introduction to American Law and the Western Legal Tradition is a social studies elective that offers an overview of the fundamentals of the law in the U.S., including the philosophical foundation of the American legal system. The course will include the basics of U.S. Constitutional Law, Criminal Law and the Criminal Justice Process,

and Civil Law (such as Torts, Contracts and Corporate Law). This course is not meant to duplicate the rigor of a law school level course; instead, it is a survey meant to give students a basic understanding of the law and how it works, and to encourage them to be active, engaged citizens with the knowledge and skills they need to successfully participate and create change in their communities. We will use case studies, individual research, group discussion/legal arguments, and mock proceedings throughout the course in order to reach our goal.

SEMINAR: WORLD RELIGIONS (UPSF17)

HONORS SEMINAR: WORLD RELIGIONS (UPSF17H)

IBSL WORLD RELIGIONS (USST091)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 11-12

Prerequisite: None

Homework: Light (Moderate for Honors and IBSL)

For students to become globally minded individuals able to confidently navigate and positively impact today’s multicultural world, one needs a deeper and meaningful understanding of the world’s major religions. In this course students will explore beliefs, practices, sacred texts, and modern issues around the major religions of Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism, Judaism, and Christianity. Students will also have an opportunity to explore a variety of belief systems beyond the major faiths, such as Native American, Haitian Vodun, Wiccan Goddesses, or Taiwan Ami. Through experiencing some religious practices through activities, guest speakers, and field trips students will gain insightful knowledge, understanding, and appreciation of the many ways in which people engage in religious practice.

Students who chose to take the IBSL World Religions option are required to complete an investigative study and take the IB exam in May of the 2nd year of the course.

HISTORY OF ASIA (USST011)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 9

Homework: Moderate

This course presents students with an overview of Asian history through an examination of society, politics, culture, geography, and economics. This course will follow a chronological path with a focus on regions such as East Asia, Southeast Asia, South Asia, and the Pacific Rim. Students should expect to be engaged in the following activities throughout the year: writing in assorted styles, reading, a multitude of perspectives, refining research skills, debating controversial issues, reenacting key historical moments through simulations, annotating, and actively reading primary and secondary documents, watching, and analyzing documentaries and films, and authoring a persuasive research essay.

MODERN WORLD HISTORY (USST03)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 10

Homework: Moderate

This course is designed to take students on a thematic and chronological journey of the world from the foundation of the modern world to the 21st century. The students will explore ideological, social, political, economic, cultural, and technological developments. With a focus on the how interaction between the “Global South” (Latin America, Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia) and European powers has created our modern world. In emphasizing these places and developments, the goal is to gain a greater understanding of when, how, and why this history shapes our lives today.

AP WORLD HISTORY: MODERN (USST031)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 10

Homework: Heavy

*Satisfies World History requirement

Prerequisite: History and Social Studies Department recommendation.

The purpose of the AP World History course is to develop greater understanding of the evolution of global processes and interaction between different types of human societies. This understanding is advanced through a combination of selective factual knowledge and appropriate analytical skills. The course highlights the nature and patterns of the changes in global communities along with their causes and effects by examining historical time periods from 1200 C.E. to the present. Students are required to take the external AP exam in May.

UNITED STATES HISTORY (USST051)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 11

Homework: Moderate

When Europeans arrived in the Americas, they found advanced civilizations and a diversity of rich cultures. Unfortunately, they often did not recognize these as such. How did America become America? How does that history shape and impact our future? What do we mean when we say that America is founded on ideas? These questions and more are answered in U.S. History, a thematic study of American history. The year begins with a study of First Nations. We then move on to the arrival of Europeans and the development of colonies, the quest for independence, the forming of a new nation and its efforts to redefine that identity after the Civil War. Second semester covers the development of the United States as a global superpower through World Wars I and II, and

Grade 9

History of Asia

HISTORY & SOCIAL STUDIES FLOW CHART

Grade 10

Modern World History

AP World History: Modern

the challenges of the Cold War era. We end the course with the quest for equality and a “more perfect union” - from the Women’s and Civil Rights movements to today’s challenges to the ideas upon which America was founded. Students are assessed based on a variety of work, including writings, various oral presentations or projects and classwork, tests and a research paper due in the second semester.

AP UNITED STATES HISTORY (USST06)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 11

*Satisfies US History requirement

Prerequisite: Successful completion of an AP History course or History and Social Studies Department recommendation. Homework: Heavy

The Advanced Placement US History program is designed to be a rigorous fast-paced course that explores in-depth the major events in American History from the Pre-Columbian Era to the 21st Century with a focus on historical thinking skills. AP US History students use primary and secondary sources to learn about, critically analyze, and develop historical understanding of the major, social, political, cultural, and economic movements and events of American history. This class requires that students read widely and carry out individual and small group research projects. As well, students must write an in-depth analytical research essay. Students are required to take the external AP exam in May.

HISTORY OF MINORITIES IN AMERICA (USST071)

HONORS: HISTORY OF MINORITIES IN AMERICA (USST071H)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 11-12

*Satisfies US History requirement

Homework: Light (Moderate for Honors)

This seminar course examines the history of marginalized communities from their perspective as opposed to the white male perspective through which history is generally taught. Students will study the ways in which women, Black Americans, Asian Americans, Hispanic/Latinx Americans, Indigenous Americans, people with disabilities, and the LGBTQ+ community have shaped American history. Students consider the ways these groups impacted the forming of America and helped write our collective history. To help develop a deeper understanding of the interconnected history of marginalized communities in the U.S., the

Grade 11

US History

AP US History

IBHL US History 1

History of Minorities in America

Honors History of Minorities in America

Elective Courses

AP European History

Honors European History And Western Political Thought

IBSL Modern World History

IBHL Modern World History 2

Taiwan, China, and the US

Business and Entrepreneurship Marketing Honors Marketing

AP Economics

IBHL Economics Year 1

IBHL Economics Year 2

History of Minorities in America

Honors History of Minorities in America

AP Art History

Humanity means not turning a blind eye when another person’s dignity is being violated.”

class considers how these historically marginalized communities are impacted by current events in the U.S. Students are assessed based on homework, case study presentations, class discussions, and two unit-long projects. All students who are taking the class to fulfill the U.S. History requirement will complete a research paper.

Chancellor Angel Merkel

IBHL US HISTORY 1 (USST19)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 11

Prerequisite: None

Homework: Heavy

This course, which is the first year of the HL History curriculum, is designed to teach students about thematic topics crucial to understanding the American past and present while also developing skills to comprehend, evaluate, and critically analyze primary and secondary sources. Students will study the founding of the USA (United States of America), slavery, the causes of the civil war and the reasons the Union won the war, the Reconstruction Era, and the 20th century Civil Rights Movement. Heavy emphasis is placed on understanding the perspectives of historians and on writing persuasive essays that will prepare students for collegelevel writing expectations. Students will also complete a major research essay as part of the curriculum. Students who are enrolled in IBHL US History will take the corresponding external IB exam at the conclusion of the two-year curriculum. Students who are enrolled in Honors IB US History are not required to take the IB exam.

IBSL MODERN WORLD HISTORY (USST201) IBHL MODERN WORLD HISTORY 2 (USST20)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 12

Prerequisite: None

Homework: Heavy

The course, which is the 2nd year of the HL History curriculum or instead can be taken as an SL History class, is designed to teach students about important events throughout the world to better understand the 20th century while also developing skills to comprehend, evaluate, and critically analyze both the past and present. This class examines major themes of twentieth century world history: the rise and rule of authoritarian states; the rise of the Cold War, its critical crises, and its end; and the comparison of protest movements in different areas of the world. Heavy emphasis is placed on understanding the perspectives of historians and on writing persuasive essays that will prepare students for collegelevel writing expectations. Students will complete a major research essay and are expected to take the corresponding external IB exam in May.

TAIWAN, CHINA, AND THE US (USST45)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 11-12

Prerequisite: None

Homework: Moderate

Taiwan is a multicultural, economically dynamic, vibrantly democratic nation that is not an official nation according to the vast majority of countries in the world. How did this happen? What, exactly, is Taiwan? This seminar course is designed to dive deeper into how modern Taiwan came to be, its unique place in the world, especially in relation to the United States and the People’s Republic of China, and why Taiwan is like no other country [“real” or not]. We will explore historical, political, and socio-cultural issues together so that we can better understand the nuanced textures of this island nation in an increasingly complex geopolitical world. This course will not have traditional tests but, instead, will utilize a number of different types of media-- readings, documentaries, films, podcasts, local historical museums/sites, and even food- and in-class discussions/projects to help us create deeper understandings of Taiwan and, especially, its connections to the United States and China. Join us for an exploration of how our beautiful island came to be one of the most interesting, unique places in the world!

History, as nearly no one seems to know, is not merely something to be read. And it does not refer merely, or even principally, to the past. On the contrary, the great force of history comes from the fact that we carry it within us, are unconsciously controlled by it in many ways, and history is literally present in all that we do. It could scarcely be otherwise, since it is to history that we owe our frames of reference, our identities, and our aspirations.”

James Baldwin

AP EUROPEAN HISTORY (USST04)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 11-12

Prerequisite: Successful completion of an AP History course, or History and Social Studies Department recommendation. Homework: Heavy

The Advanced Placement European History program provides students with the analytic skills and content knowledge necessary to deal critically with the interpretive problems of European societies. The course encompasses the social, political, economic, religious, technological, intellectual, and cultural developments of European society from 1450 to the present. The primary aim of the course is to present a history of European societies, institutions and ideals based upon a close reading of secondary source materials and analysis of primary documents. Students are required to take the external AP exam in May.

HONORS EUROPEAN HISTORY AND WESTERN POLITICAL THOUGHT (USST42)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 11-12

Prerequisite: None

Homework: Moderate

How did the Western World come to be the way it is? How did Western ideas and traditions develop? Find out in Honors European History and Western Political Thought. Students in this year-long elective will look at the West through the lens of historical events, art, music, literature, religion and philosophy. We will start with the ideas and attitudes of the ancient Greeks and continue to the modern worldview on life, politics and civil society. Students will be assessed through written and oral projects such as role-plays, debates and mock trials, as well as quizzes and class work.

AP ECONOMICS (USST11)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 11-12

Prerequisite: Completion of an AP History or AP Calc AB or History and Social Studies Department recommendation.

Homework: Heavy

This course covers Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, and International Economics. Students will explore topics ranging from decision-making of firms and individuals, international trade, exchange rates, fiscal and monetary policies, market failures, inequality, etc. Students will have opportunities to apply economic theories to global current events and learn how to express economic topics mathematically, numerically (data), graphically, and verbally, including the use of digital databases and resources, visualization of data, and analytical writing. Students will be prepared and required to take both the AP Microeconomics and AP Macroeconomics exams in May.

IBHL ECONOMICS YEAR 1 (USST251)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 11

Prerequisites: None

Homework: Heavy

IB Economics Yr 1 gives students the chance to explore their world through a new lens. They are introduced to the economic way of thinking and how it shapes the world we live in today. The concepts and curriculum include introductory topics, and a deep analysis and application of microeconomics, protectionism, and trade. They apply everything that they are learning outside the walls of the classroom in their local community and the world at large. Both qualitative and quantitative analysis are required to succeed in this rigorous course. This course would be of particular interest for students looking to pursue economics, business or finance at the university level. All students are required to take the IBHL Economics external examination upon completion of IB HL Econ year 2.

*NOTE: IBHL Economics Year 2 is part of a two-year sequence; students take the external examination during the second year.

IBHL ECONOMICS YEAR 2 (USST252)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 12

Prerequisites: Successful completion of IB Economics HL Year 1

Homework: heavy

This course is a continuation of the IBHL Economics course. The core concepts from the prior year are elaborated upon and applied to new areas. Students will examine the larger economic models that make up national economics decisions and decision makers by delving into macroeconomic theories, goals and principles. They will apply their knowledge to various national economies and understand the interconnectedness of our global economy through exchange rates, and balance of payments. The course culminates with the study of economic development. Students will complete the last two internal assessments in year two of the course. Students are required to take the IBHL Economics examination upon completion of the course.

AP ART HISTORY (UART32)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 10-12

Prerequisite: None

*Satisfies the Visual Arts requirement

Homework: Heavy

In the AP Art History course, students are invited to discover the diversity of and connections among global artistic traditions. Students interact with different types of art, observing and analyzing relationships of form, function, content, and context through their reading, discussion, research, and writing. Using 250 representative works of art spanning prehistory to the present comprise the course content, students will study functions and

effects of art and consider influential forces like belief, class, gender, ethnicity, patronage, and politics in their critical analyses of art forms. They will investigate how humans respond to the world and communicate their experiences through art making by examining chronology, styles, techniques, and themes to compare, contrast, and interpret art forms from varied perspectives and cultures. Students should be proficient in reading and writing. The AP Art History course is an elective credit class, meaning that it does not meet the graduation requirement for fine arts.

BUSINESS & ENTREPRENEURSHIP (USST513)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 10-12

Prerequisite: None

Homework: Light

Advancing in today’s competitive and continually changing environment requires business insight. This course equips students with the fundamental business and entrepreneurial principles that allow them to navigate the business landscape of today and the future. Divided into five separate modules, this course covers: basic economic theory, business structure and organization, the role of marketing in developing business strategy, accounting and finance, and entrepreneurship. Students are introduced to the concepts through discussions of the textbook reading and observations of current events and deepen their comprehension by applying the principles to case studies and simulations. This course further develops students’ critical thinking skills as they analyze and resolve real-world business issues. This survey course is good for students with an interest in business, entrepreneurship, and economics who may not be ready or have time for the college level AP Economics course.

It’s dirty work. But the point is, being a detective means that you have a question. And the question is so important that you will go to any end to find it. In addition, a detective always believes that there is a way of finding the answer. And that’s the way I have always done research.”

Claudia Goldin, the first woman to win the Nobel Prize in Economics solo in 2023

MARKETING (USST53) HONORS MARKETING (USST53H)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 10-12

Prerequisite: None

Homework: Light (Moderate for Honors)

Marketing goes beyond just advertising – it involves understanding how changing customer perceptions and preferences become central determinants of an organization’s strategy and long-run success. This course introduces students to fundamental principles and analyses involved with managing marketing activities, as well as to methods used to assess and solve marketing issues. Study modules include determining marketing strategy, identifying trends in the marketplace, customer behavior and market segmentation, market research, product management, pricing, channels of distribution, and the promotional mix. Students learn concepts through classroom discussions of textbook reading and current events and deepen their understanding through case studies, group projects, and a marketing simulation program developed by an INSEAD marketing professor. Students also complete and present a research-based marketing plan for a company of their choice.

Honors students read additional books to extend their knowledge and comprehension of marketing topics covered. This course is good for students who have an interest in business and economics who may not be ready or have time for the college level AP Economics course.

There was a time when women social activists asked men to stand up for their rights. But, this time, we will do it by ourselves. I am not telling men to step away from speaking for women's rights rather I am focusing on women to be independent to fight for themselves.”

Malala Yousafzai

US MATH CALCULATOR/TECHNOLOGY USAGE POLICY

A TI-84 Plus CE graphing calculator is required for all Upper School math courses. Students should NOT purchase other models. Some other models have a Computer Algebra System (CAS) and IB does not allow CAS calculators to be used. Please do not purchase other TI models (or other brands), as they are not appropriate for our classes and may not have similar capabilities as the models we use. The SAT, ACT, AP, and IB will allow use of the TI-84 Plus CE model on its exams. Calculators are available in the Tiger Shop and may also be purchased through online retail sites.

Understanding that a comprehensive mathematics curriculum should help students learn to use calculators, computers, and other tools of technology as a part of learning mathematics, the US Mathematics Department promotes the use of technology as an integral part of our mathematics program. This position is supported by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) that states: “…instructional programs should use technology to help all students understand mathematics and should prepare them to use mathematics in an increasingly technological world.” “…Technology is essential in teaching and learning mathematics, it influences the mathematics that is taught and enhances students’ learning.” The NCTM makes it clear that such tools do not replace the need to learn basic math skills, to compute mentally, or to do reasonable paper and pencil computation. In fact, the NCTM Standards suggest that when used appropriately, calculators and computers enable students to explore new areas of mathematics and to tackle challenging mathematical problems that would not be possible without the help of such tools. In line with this philosophy, we offer the following policy on the use of technology.

We require the appropriate use of technology in the classroom. Students need to consider when use of mental mathematics, paper & pencil, or a calculator is appropriate. Calculator dependency, as evidenced by the use of a calculator for multiplying single- or double-digit numbers, should be avoided. (Keep in mind that over one-half of the AP Calculus exam does not allow calculator use. Also note that a portion of the SAT test does not allow calculator use as well.)

We recognize that calculators left unattended may be targets for theft. To help combat theft, the US Mathematics Department has purchased an engraver that students may use at any time that classes are not in session for engraving their name on their calculator. We strongly encourage students to engrave their calculators! Engraving can be done in the math office before school, during breaks, and after school.

Students will be required to show all work in their solutions and may have to explain how they arrived at their solution as a demonstration of their understanding. This applies to homework, quizzes, and tests, whether a calculator is used or not. The calculator should not replace the understanding of fundamental concepts of mathematics. Therefore, a reasonable emphasis will be placed on teaching with mental computation and paper & pencil calculation.

IB AND AP MATH COURSES

The AP Calculus AB and BC courses are designed to mirror typical undergraduate college Calculus 1 and 2 courses for students heading into math-focused majors and careers. The focus is purely on differential and integral calculus with a mostly analytical approach. AP exams may be taken at any grade level. The IB math curriculum has two branches: Analysis & Approaches and Applications & Interpretation. Both branches include calculus and statistics and are equivalent in difficulty. IB Diploma students should plan on taking the SL external exam in grade 11 or 12. The HL external exam is offered in grade 12 only.

The Analysis & Approaches branch focuses more on a deep understanding of mathematics, concentrating more on calculus than statistics. Students will be asked to prove, investigate, etc. An analytical approach is encouraged. This branch is aimed at students who will go on to study subjects with substantial mathematics content such as mathematics itself, engineering, physical sciences, or economics for example. Analysis & Approaches will be offered at the SL and HL level.

The Applications & Interpretation branch focuses more on statistics than calculus, and on the role of mathematics and technology in a

diverse array of contexts. Using tech is the norm with an emphasis on interpreting those results. This branch is aimed at students who will go on to study subjects such as social sciences, natural sciences, statistics, business, some economics, psychology, and design, for example. Applications & Interpretation will be offered at the SL and HL level.

COURSES OFFERED THROUGH GLOBAL ONLINE ACADEMY

Students who complete AP Calculus BC can choose to take a math course online through Global Online Academy. Course selection varies each year and the latest information can be found at https:// globalonlineacademy.org/. Please discuss with your math teacher and academic counselor about how to sign up.

ALGEBRA 1 (UMAT02)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Pre-Algebra or Introduction to Algebra

Homework: Moderate

Included in this course is the real number system, linear equations and their graphs, inequalities, polynomials, rational expressions, quadratic equations, relations and functions.

Text: Beginning Algebra, 9th edition (ISBN: 978-0-13-418779-2)

GEOMETRY (UMAT03)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra 1 or recommendation of the department

Homework: Moderate

While this course does not require proofs as Honors Geometry does, it examines many of the same concepts through constructions, drawings, and explorations. These concepts include points; lines and planes; congruence and similarity of triangles and other polygons; angles; circles; perimeter; area and volume; Pythagorean Theorem; and an introduction to trigonometry.

Text: Geometry (ISBN: 978-0-13-328115-6)

HONORS GEOMETRY (UMAT041)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra 1 and recommendation of the department

Homework: Heavy

Students study the basic definitions used in deductive reasoning, basic principles of logic, properties of different polygons, perpendicularity, congruence, similarity of triangles, properties of circles, constructions, areas, and volumes. Proofs will be studied, but not emphasized.

Text: Geometry (ISBN: 978-0-13-328115-6)

ALGEBRA 2 (UMAT06)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra 1 and Geometry/ Honors Geometry or recommendation of the department

Homework: Moderate

This course is a standard college prep class. Algebra 2 provides a thorough review of the topics covered in Algebra 1 and develops concepts in complex numbers, polynomial and rational functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, conic sections, probability, and sequences and series.

Text: Beginning & Intermediate Algebra, 6th edition (ISBN: 978-013-419309-0)

MODELING, DESIGN, & FINANCE (UMAT065)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra 2 and recommendation of the department

Homework: Light

This course is designed to give students access and experience to a wide range of mathematical models and techniques used for solving problems in many contexts of human endeavor. These contexts include business, probability, and research focused from the individual and community perspective. Students will work on developing proficiency with mathematical skills and strategies in problem-solving through topics such as applied geometry, financial literacy, and statistics.

Text: None

In mathematics, the art of proposing a question must be held of higher value than solving it."

MATHEMATICS FLOW CHART

IB MATHEMATICS OPTIONS

MATHEMATICS

HONORS ALGEBRA 2 (UMAT070)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Honors Geometry and recommendation of the department

Homework: Heavy

This course extends the topics covered in Algebra 1 and develops concepts in complex numbers, polynomial and rational functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, conic sections, probability, and sequences and series.

Text: Intermediate Algebra, 4th edition (ISBN: 978-0-13-455580-5)

PRECALCULUS (UMAT08)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra 2 and recommendation of the department

Homework: Moderate

This course covers essentially the same curriculum as Honors Precalculus, but several topics of study are not covered at the same depth as the Honors course. The course consists of such topics as trigonometry, polynomial functions, logarithms and exponents, and complex numbers. Successful completion of this course should prepare a student for first term introductory to calculus in a typical U.S. college.

Text: Precalculus by Robert Blitzer, 7th edition (ISBN: 978-0-13692219-3)

HONORS PRECALCULUS (UMAT12)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Honors Algebra 2 and recommendation of the department

Homework: Heavy

This course includes trigonometry, polynomial functions, logarithms and exponents, and complex numbers. Successful completion of this course should prepare a student for AP Calculus AB or first term calculus in a typical U.S. college.

Text: Precalculus by Robert Blitzer, 7th edition (ISBN: 978-0-13692219-3)

CALCULUS (UMAT121)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Precalculus/Honors

Precalculus and recommendation of the department

Homework: Moderate

This course includes a review of polynomials, trigonometric, exponential, and logarithmic functions, followed by discussion of limits, derivatives, and applications of differential calculus to realworld problem areas. An introduction to integration concludes the course.

Text: Calculus: Graphical, Numerical, Algebraic (ISBN: 978-0-13331161-7)

AP CALCULUS AB (UMAT13)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Honors Precalculus and recommendation of the department

Homework: Heavy

This course is similar to first semester calculus as taught in most U.S. colleges and universities. Topics include differentiation of polynomials, trigonometric, exponential, and logarithmic functions as well as integration techniques and theory. Students are required to take the AP exam at the completion of the course.

Text: Calculus: Graphical, Numerical, Algebraic (ISBN: 978-0-13331161-7)

AP CALCULUS BC (UMAT14)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Prerequisites: Successful completion AP Calculus AB or Honors Precalculus and recommendation of the department

Homework: Heavy

This course is intended for those students who have advanced mathematical ability. The curriculum is similar to the first two semesters of college calculus as taught in most United States colleges and universities. The Calculus topics covered include integration techniques, polar coordinates, vectors, parametric equations, sequences and series, differential equations and slope fields. Projects that extend the course content will be an integral component of the course. Students are required to take the AP Calculus BC exam upon completion of the course.

Text: Calculus (ISBN: 978-0-618-50304-9)

AP STATISTICS (UMAT09)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra 2 and recommendation of the department

Homework: Heavy

This course is similar to a first semester statistics course as taught in most U.S. colleges. Students are introduced to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. An external exam at the end of the year can provide students with college credit. Students are required to take the AP exam.

Text: The Practice of Statistics for AP (ISBN: 978-1-4641-0873-0)

HONORS MODERN TOPICS IN MATHEMATICS (UMAT22)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Prerequisite: Successful completion of AP Calculus BC or IBHL Year 2 Math and recommendation of math department

Homework: Heavy

This is a university-level course for advanced students who have a passion for mathematics. Topics studied will include Differential Equations, Linear Algebra, Multi-Variable Calculus, and other advanced math topics.

Text: Various resources will be recommended throughout the course as needed

IBSL MATH: APPLICATIONS & INTERPRETATION YEAR 1 (UMAT31)

IBSL MATH: APPLICATIONS & INTERPRETATION YEAR 2 (UMAT32)

Duration: 2 years

Credit: 1 per year

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra 2 and recommendation of the department

Homework: Heavy

The IB Application & Interpretation Syllabus is followed in this two-year course. Five main topics are studied: Algebra, Functions, Geometry & Trigonometry, Statistics & Probability, and Calculus. The course culminates in an external IBSL Math Exam at the end of Year 2. Taking the IB exam is required of all Year 2 students. A Mathematics Exploration is also required of all students, which is an independent written paper into a mathematics topic that each student prepares, typically during Year 2. This paper is internally assessed as part of the IB score. This course focuses more on statistics than calculus, and on the role of mathematics and technology in a diverse array of contexts. Using tech is the norm with an emphasis on interpreting those results. This course is aimed at students who will go on to study subjects such as social sciences, natural sciences, statistics, business, some economics, psychology, and design, for example.

Text: Haese Mathematics Core Topics SL Book 1 (ISBN: 978-1925489-55-2) and Book 2 (ISBN: 978-1-925489-57-6)

Algebra is nothing more than Geometry, in words. Geometry is nothing more than Algebra, in pictures."

To miss out on mathematics is to live without an opportunity to play with beautiful ideas and see the world in a new light. To grasp mathematical beauty is a unique and sublime experience that everyone should demand. All of us—no matter who you are or where you’re from—can cultivate mathematical affection."

IBHL MATH: APPLICATIONS & INTERPRETATION YEAR 1 (UMAT33)

IBHL MATH: APPLICATIONS & INTERPRETATION YEAR 2 (UMAT34)

Duration: 2 years

Credit: 1 per year

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Honors Algebra 2 or Honors Precalculus and recommendation of the department

Homework: Heavy

This course includes the curriculum of UMAT31 and UMAT32, with an additional 90 hours of study in the five topic areas listed in the SL course description. Year 2 students also complete a written paper assessed internally and sit for the external exam during grade 12.

Text: Haese Mathematics Core Topics HL Book 1 (ISBN: 978-1925489-58-3) and Book 2 (ISBN: 978-1-925489-60-6)

IBSL MATH: ANALYSIS & APPROACHES YEAR 1 (UMAT41)

IBSL MATH: ANALYSIS & APPROACHES YEAR 2 (UMAT42)

Duration: 2 years

Credit: 1 per year

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Honors Algebra 2 and recommendation of the department

Homework: Heavy

The IB Analysis & Approaches Syllabus is followed in this two-year course. Five main topics are studied: Algebra, Functions, Geometry & Trigonometry, Statistics & Probability, and Calculus. The course culminates in an external IBSL Math Exam at the end of Year 2.

Taking the IB exam is required of all Year 2 students. A Mathematics Exploration is also required of all students, which is an independent written paper into a mathematics topic that each student prepares, typically during Year 2. This paper is internally assessed as part of the IB score. This course focuses more on calculus than statistics, and on a deep understanding of mathematics. Students will be asked to prove, investigate, etc. An analytical approach is encouraged. This branch is aimed at students who will go on to study subjects with substantial mathematics content such as mathematics itself, engineering, physical sciences, or economics for example.

Text: Haese Mathematics Core Topics SL Book 1 (ISBN: 978-1925489-55-2) and Book 2 (ISBN: 978-1-925489-56-9)

IBHL MATH: ANALYSIS & APPROACHES YEAR 1 (UMAT43)

IBHL MATH: ANALYSIS & APPROACHES YEAR 2 (UMAT44)

Duration: 2 years

Credit: 1 per year

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Honors Algebra 2 or Honors Precalculus and recommendation of the department Homework: Heavy

This course includes the curriculum of UMAT41 and UMAT42, with an additional 90 hours of study in the five topic areas listed in the SL course description. Year 2 students also complete a written paper assessed internally and sit for the external exam during grade 12.

Text: Haese Mathematics Core Topics HL Book 1 (ISBN: 978-1925489-58-3) and Book 2 (ISBN: 978-1-925489-59-0)

Francis Su

COMPUTER SCIENCE AND ROBOTICS DEPARTMENT

The Computer Science and Robotics department seeks to encourage students to become creative, team-oriented, and technologically skilled lifelong learners. We believe this is best done through a combination of skill acquisition and team-based projects, in an environment which encourages exploration, selfadvocacy, and internationally competitive standards.

All students starting out in the CS/Robotics department are required to take a Level 1 course as an introduction to the program. This will give students new to CS/Robotics a skill set specialization in either Control Systems Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Computer Programming. If you are already experienced in your preferred specialization, take this opportunity to add a new skill or specialization that you are not as familiar with. All courses offered by the Computer Science and Robotics Department fulfill the graduation requirement for Computer Science and Robotics.

Students who plan to continue on in CS/Robotics will then select a second Level 1 project course: such as Robotic Engineering, Media Arts, or Object-Oriented Programming. In these courses, students will have the opportunity to use their new skill specializations as part of a project team. Students will be grouped into teams with diverse skill specializations and work together on several large scope projects for the semester. These project courses emphasize teamwork and interdependence and provide first year CS/Robotics students with the experience realizing large scale projects that they will need to be successful in our more advanced course offerings. Successful completion of any combination of two Level 1 courses will qualify students for our Level 2 course offerings.

In Level 2 courses and beyond, students will be challenged to continually stretch their technical ability and understanding with topics such as Artificial Intelligence, Advanced Robotic Engineering, Machine Learning, Quantum Computing, Video Game Design, and Control System Dynamics. Students who pursue Computer Science and Robotics at Taipei American School

will find themselves exceptionally well prepared to study Electrical, Mechanical, and Software Engineering at the college level, and will leave the program with useful lifelong skills in programing, design, and fabrication.

The department also sponsors a variety of extracurricular teams with a significant programming and engineering elements, including: FIRST FRC, VEX Robotics Competition, the International Rube Goldberg Competition, and the Computer Science Team, and VR club.

TAS students must satisfy a 1/2 credit CS/Robotics requirement. This requirement may be satisfied by any semester-long or yearlong course listed in the CS/Robotics Dept. catalog of courses.

For certain courses, there are software demands that require a system that is robust and utilizes a 64 bit Operating System and 8+ GB of RAM.

INTRO TO AUTOMATION (UCSR0151)

Duration: 1 semester

Credit: 0.5

Grades: 9-12

Prerequisite: None

Homework: Light

Interested in automating things around your home using Raspbery Pi? Learn how to control devices in your world remotely over Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Use python and other languages to control motors, LEDs, and remote switches. Read sensors and send information over the internet to your phone. Use your phone as a controller to automate technology in the world around you. Introductory level course. No previous experience required. Satisfies the computer science graduation requirement and can serve as a prerequisite for any other Level 1 course.

COMPUTER SCIENCE & ROBOTICS

A computer once beat me at chess, but it was no match for me at kick boxing."

MECHANICAL ENGINEERING (UCSR014)

Duration: 1 semester, offered in Semester 1 only

Credit: 0.5

Grades: 9-12

Prerequisite: A laptop with 64 bit Operating System and 8+ GB of RAM

Homework: Light

This course is an introduction to Mechanical Engineering. Students will learn to use CAD software to study the principles of mechanical engineering and learn to build their designs using our lab’s state of the art CNC (Computer Numeric Control) fabrication capabilities. Students will study, design, and build many common mechanisms as well as study gear design and gear ratios, pulley and sprocket systems, lift mechanisms, projectile launchers, and mechanical arms. Students will learn about transmission of power in a mechanical system including motors, servos, lever arms, springs, and pneumatic systems. Students in this class will be trained to operate and maintain all of the equipment in the lab and learn state of the art fabrication methods, including water jet cutting, aluminum TIG welding, multi axis CNC milling, 3D printing, and lathe operations. This course requires no prior knowledge of robotics or programing. It satisfies the computer science graduation requirement and can serve as a prerequisite for any other Level 1 course.

PROGRAMMING FOR GAME DESIGN (UCSR016)

Duration: 1 semester, offered in Semester 1 only

Credit: 0.5

Grades: 9-12

Prerequisite: None

Homework: Moderate

This course is an introduction to computer programming where students primarily focus on creating user interactive 2D games using Java and the Processing programming environment. Students learn about variables, strings, arrays, Boolean algebra, text processing, regular expressions, loops, control statements, methods, parameters, return values, classes, constructors, creating and animating game objects, incorporating event listeners, and using various Java libraries. The course culminates in a project where students can create a new interactive game of their own design. This course requires no prior knowledge of programing. It satisfies the computer science graduation requirement and can serve as a prerequisite for any other Level 1 course.

WEB DESIGN & PROGRAMMING (UCSR02)

Duration: 1 semester

Credit: 0.5

Grades: 9-12

Prerequisite: None

Homework: Light

This is an introductory, project based course in computer programming where students learn to design and code interactive websites using HTML, CSS, JavaScript, jQuery, and Processing. Special emphasis is given to developing student algorithmic thinking, logic, design best practices, and problem solving skills. This course requires no prior knowledge of programing. It satisfies the computer science graduation requirement and can serve as a prerequisite for any other Level 1 course. Level

Emo Philips

AUGMENTED REALITY IN SOCIAL MEDIA (UCSR022)

Duration: 1 semester

Credit: 0.5

Grades: 9-12

Prerequisite: None

Homework: Light

This course covers the technical and experiential design foundation required for the implementation of immersive environments in contemporary social media platforms. Using Facebook’s Spark AR development environment, students will create custom reactive filters and lenses. This course provides a basic introduction to reactive programming and visual scripting through Javascript. The course will also include discussions on the ethics of augmented reality, filters, facial recognition, and social media. This course requires no prior knowledge of programing or robotics. It satisfies the computer science graduation requirement and can serve as a prerequisite for any other Level 1 course.

ROBOTICS MENTORING (UCSR020)

Duration: 1 semester, offered in Semester 1

Credit: 0.5

Grades: 9-12

Prerequisite: None

Homework: Light

This introductory course is a mix of mechanical design, programming, mentorship, teaching, and creativity. Serving as mentors to Lower School students, Upper School students will learn various platforms useful in helping Lower School students develop their understanding of robotics and engineering. Projects will span a variety of different skills including the design and fabrication of mechanisms, consulting on Lower School student project ideas, and modeling material and tool use. Other possibilities include small electronics projects in which students create automated sequences of lights and sounds. Students is to learn programming through the VEX IQ platform to facilitate robot games and competitions with lower school students. The course instructor will assist the Upper School students in planning, strategy, design and fabrication. This course requires no prior knowledge of robotics or programing. It satisfies the computer science graduation requirement and can serve as a prerequisite for any other Level 1 course.

ROBOTIC ENGINEERING (UCSR017)

Duration: 1 semester, offered in Semester 2 only

Credit: 0.5

Grades: 9-12

Prerequisite: Any other Level 1 course; a laptop with 64 bit Operating System and 8+ GB of RAM

Homework: Moderate

This course is intended as a first project course for students interested in pursuing robotic engineering at TAS. It is designed to be a second semester continuation of any of the first semester Level 1 course offerings. This course will combine students with different backgrounds and skill sets from the Level 1 courses into project teams focused on achieving specific goals selected by the team. Typical project teams will consist of a combination of students who are familiar with microcontrollers, programming, and/or mechanical design. Projects are selected by the teams and may include: battle bots, electric vehicles, drones, machines that

COMPUTER SCIENCE & ROBOTICS

assist with daily life, or other ideas proposed by student teams and approved by the instructor. Completion of this course in combination with any other Level 1 course will qualify students for Level 2 course offerings.

INTRO TO KINETIC ART (UCSR0181)

Duration: 1 semester

Credit: 0.5

Grades: 9-12

Prerequisite: None

Homework: Light

A first course in Engineering, Design, and Robotics; students will learn the fundamentals of Computer Aided Design (CAD), computer science, and electrical engineering through the construction of kinetic (moving) and interactive sculptures. This multidisciplinary mechatronics course is intended to introduce students to the wealth of tools and techniques found in the Tech Cube, providing a stepping stone to later computer science classes. Topics include: transmission of power in mechanical systems through motors, springs, pulley/sprocket systems, gears, linkages and additional techniques. Students will have multiple opportunities to master technical and creative skills relating to design, engineering, programming, and circuit building. This course assumes no prior knowledge, fulfills the computer science graduation requirement, and can serve as a prerequisite for any other Level 1 course.

OBJECT-ORIENTED PROGRAMMING (UCSR021)

Duration: 1 semester, offered in Semester 2 only

Credit: 0.5

Grades: 9-12

Prerequisite: any other Level 1 course; a laptop with 64 bit Operating System and 8+ GB of RAM

Homework: Moderate

This course is ideal for students who wish to take their Java-based programs to the next level, especially if they have an ambitious interactive graphics-based game or project in mind. At the start of the course, students hone their programming skills working with a standard Java IDE and external libraries such as the Processing library and Box2D physics game engine in BlueJ to create objectoriented games demonstrating inheritance, composition, and

Computer Science is no more about computers than astronomy is about telescopes."

Edsger

W. Dijkstra

interfaces. A second large unit includes learning to use the JavaFX library to create Graphical User Interfaces and 2D games. Other topics include: object-oriented program design, file input and output, exception handling, try-catch, sorting algorithms, recursion, nested loops, matrices, hashmaps, and queues. The course culminates in a programming project focused on the student’s programming interests. Completion of this course in combination with any other Level 1 course will qualify students for Level 2 course offerings.

AP COMPUTER SCIENCE A (UCSR04)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 10-12

Prerequisite: Successful completion of any two Level 1 courses plus teacher recommendation, Or concurrent enrollment or previous completion of Honors Algebra 2, Honors Precalculus, or above. The course is open to all seniors regardless of prerequisites.

Homework: Heavy

This is a college-level introductory course in computer science which focuses on the design and implementation of computer programs using the Java language. Successful students often have some prior programming experience before coming to this course and/or are good at solving math and logic puzzles. Topics include classes, objects, primitive data types, strings, lists, methods, control structures, search and sort algorithms, arrays, recursion, Boolean logic, inheritance, and polymorphism. Students are prepared for and are required to take the AP Computer Science-A exam in May.

HONORS ROBOTIC ENGINEERING 1 (UCSR051H)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 9-12

Prerequisite: Successful completion of two Level 1 courses; a laptop with 64 bit Operating System and 8+ GB of RAM Homework: Moderate

In this project based honors level course students will master the complete engineering cycle including research, prototyping, design, fabrication, and failure testing. It is especially tailored to round out a student’s growing knowledge of programming, robotics, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering. Students will be pushed to pursue advanced topics in computer programing, electronics, sensors and actuators, and fabrication. Student driven projects can include competition robotics applications, interactive or media arts, service applications, wearable technology, musical robotics, or other topics that the student or project team is interested in pursuing. Emphasis will be placed on producing high quality innovative finished products and creating a documented portfolio of work.

HONORS ROBOTIC ENGINEERING 2 (UCSR052H)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 10-12

Prerequisite: Honors Robotics Engineering 1; a laptop with 64 bit Operating System and 8+ GB of RAM Homework: Moderate

This course is for students who have already taken Honors Robotic Engineering 1 that want to pursue more advanced robotics projects.

HONORS RESEARCH IN DATA SCIENCE (UCSR060)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 10-12

Prerequisite: Successful completion of any two Level 1 courses. Homework: Moderate

This is a second-level course in the CS&R department that gives students opportunities to do research in modern data science and machine learning techniques. Students will be given access to high performance tools for the training and modelling of datasets of their choosing throughout the year. The course will begin with basic introduction to data processing and management of larger data sets. After the introductory period, Students will be taught how to use various packages to help process and understand how to manipulate data using neural networks. As the course progresses, students will be able to create jobs and train their own models on larger and larger data sets. The year will culminate in a large research project which may lead to external publication opportunities.

HONORS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (UCSR22)

Duration: 1 Year

Credit: 1

Grades: 10-12

Prerequisite: AP Computer Science, or by permission of the CS Dept. Chair; a laptop with 64 bit Operating System and 8+ GB of RAM

Homework: Heavy

This project-based course includes a survey of major areas of artificial intelligence based in part on the text “Artificial Intelligence: A Modern Approach, 2nd edition, by Russell and Norvig”. Students receive an introduction to programming in Python during the second semester, but they are free to choose any language they

COMPUTER SCIENCE & ROBOTICS

wish to complete their programming assignments throughout the year. The focus of the course is not any particular language but programming and algorithm design. In a series of tutorials and challenges, students learn to incorporate elements of artificial intelligence into their programs and applications. Students learn advanced search algorithms such as Uniform Cost Search, Greedy Search, and A*, as well as visual processing, neural networks, and fuzzy logic. A required capstone for each unit consists of completing a medium-sized project.

HONORS MODERN TOPICS IN COMPUTER SCIENCE (UCSR23)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 10-12

Prerequisite: AP Computer Science, or Honors Algebra 2, or AP Physics, or permission from instructor; a laptop with 64 bit Operating System and 8+ GB of RAM

Homework: Moderate

This course provides a survey of modern computing. The primary focus of the course will be on machine learning and quantum computation. Classical logic gates will be introduced, moving onto introductory quantum mechanics, and then finally into applications of qubits. The course will transition into machine learning, neural networks and how they function. This will culminate in a personal research project at the end of the course. Recommended for students with a strong interest in applications of math, physics, or computer science.

HONORS VIDEO GAME PROGRAMMING (UCSR24)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 10-12

Prerequisite: AP Computer Science, or CS Dept. Chair’s permission; a laptop with 64 bit Operating System and 8+ GB of RAM

Homework: Heavy

This course gives an introduction to C-based object-oriented programming (C++ or C#) with a focus on creating video games. The first unit focuses on the unique syntax, advantages and pitfalls of object-oriented C-based programming. The second unit focuses on graphics using standard graphics libraries and event-based programming for interactive applications. The third unit focuses on creating games using a playcentric approach. All students complete a capstone project which consists of creating an interesting video game that will be submitted to international competitions like IndieCade and the Independent Game Festival.

TEACHING ASSISTANT IN COMPUTER SCIENCE & ROBOTICS (UCSR42)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 11-12

Prerequisite: Advanced achievement in Computer Science and Robotics courses and CS Dept. Chair’s approval

Homework: Moderate

Students who sign up for this course act as teaching assistants for various computer science and robotics courses. Under supervision by faculty, the student teacher helps provide timely assistance and feedback for students undertaking individualized building or programming projects. The course is graded as pass/fail.

HONORS COMPUTER SCIENCE & ROBOTICS RESEARCH (UCSR41)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 11-12

Prerequisite: Advanced achievement in Computer Science and Robotics courses and instructor’s permission

Homework: Heavy

This course is for students who want to pursue a research project at Taipei American School under the supervision of a faculty member. Students wishing to pursue off-campus research should instead sign up for Advanced Scientific Research.

ENGINEERING AS SERVICE-LEARNING (UCSR07)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 9-12

Prerequisite: Successful completion of two Level 1 courses; a laptop with 64 bit Operating System and 8+ GB of RAM

Homework: Moderate

This course will use the students' engineering skills and the resources of the Tech Cube to help create service-oriented solutions for our community. Engineering is about solving problems. In this course, student engineering teams will work to identify an area of need that affects members of our local community and develop working solutions by the end of the course. Throughout the project's lifetime, students will engage in the design cycle with special emphasis on meeting the client's requirements. While the course is focused on service, it will also create opportunities for the student to explore new tools and methodologies in the areas of design, manufacturing, electronics and software. Successful students will demonstrate their engineering skills and deliver projects that will have immediate or recurring impact on their clients’ lives.

EXPERIMENTAL PHYSICS (USCI012)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 9-12

Prerequisite: None

Homework: Light

This course explores the fundamentals of science and physics through experiments, demonstrations and activities designed to create a basic understanding of our physical universe. Motion, forces, energy, electricity, sound, and light are the core phenomena to be investigated throughout the year. The course will focus on experimental methods, procedures, and analysis of scientific data, with the intent of laying the foundation for success in chemistry and biology. Advanced math skills are not required for this course, which will cover the same topics as the other courses, but with a much greater emphasis on lab experiences and less on problem solving.

Text: Holt Physics (Serway-Faughn) (ISBN 978-0-030-36816-5

PHYSICS (USCI021)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 9-12

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Pre-Algebra or Algebra 1 and Science Department recommendation

Homework: Light

This course illuminates the principles of physics through laboratory experiments, conceptual development activities, and some problem solving (but less than Honors Physics). The class includes similar activities and laboratory activities as Experimental Physics and Honors Physics with a balance of quantitative and conceptual acquisition of physics knowledge so that the students acquire the basis necessary for understanding the physical world. Motion, forces, electricity, sound, and light are some of the topics. Science

I hadn’t been aware that there were doors closed to me until I started knocking on them."

Gertrude B. Elion, biochemist, pharmacologist, 1988 Nobel Prize

and Mathematics departments request students purchase the following calculator: TI-84 CE. It is available in the Tiger Shop.

Text: Holt Physics (Serway-Faughn) (ISBN 978-0-030-36816-5

HONORS PHYSICS (USCI022)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 9-12

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra 1, high level mathematics placement, and Science Department recommendation

Homework: Moderate

This course illuminates the principles of physics through laboratory experiments, conceptual development activities, and problem solving. The class includes most of the same activities and laboratory activities as Experimental Physics and Physics, but it also includes extensive problem solving for students with the appropriate mathematics background, good study skills, and proven record of accomplishment of excellent achievement in science and mathematics. Motion, forces, electricity, sound, and light are some of the topics. Criteria that will be used for student placement include student achievement in previous science courses, and mathematics placement. Science and Mathematics departments request students purchase the following calculator: TI-84 CE. It is available in the Tiger Shop.

Text: Holt Physics (Serway-Faughn) (ISBN 978-0-030-36816-5)

EXPERIMENTAL CHEMISTRY (USCI051)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 10-12

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra 1 or department permission

Homework: Light

Experimental Chemistry explores the behavior of matter from a laboratory-focused perspective. Students will perform lab exercises almost daily to attain understanding of concepts in chemistry. By analyzing and explaining what they have performed in the lab, students will develop their logic, writing, and explanatory skills in addition to becoming more critical thinkers and problem solvers. The course prepares students with the knowledge and skills to link this subject with items learned in Physics and will prepare students for the study of Biology as the same topics will be covered in this course as in the other Chemistry courses.

Text: Introduction to Chemistry 13th Edition (Hein, Wiley) and digital reader and resources are provided. (ISBN 978-0-47050591-5)

CHEMISTRY (USCI05)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 10-12

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra 1

Homework: Light

This course is designed for students who may pursue scienceoriented college studies after high school. The syllabus is structured to give students a strong foundational background in chemistry that will enable them to succeed in an introductory college level course. Theoretical concepts are accompanied as much as possible by “hands-on” activities; so, lab work constitutes a large proportion of class time. Students will learn to think critically, solve problems, and develop an awareness of the environment in which they live. They will also develop written communication and applied math skills.

Text: Introduction to Chemistry 13th Edition (Hein, Wiley) (ISBN 978-0-470-50591-5)

HONORS CHEMISTRY (USCI11)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 10-12

Prerequisite: Recommendation of current (Physics) instructor

Homework: Moderate

Honors Chemistry provides an in-depth look at a wide range of Chemistry topics and their application. In laboratory situations, students will have the opportunity to develop their lab skills and problem solving skills as challenges arise. The first quarter is dedicated to forming a solid foundation in atomic theory, periodicity, and bonding.

Text: Chemistry (Brady, Senese, Jespersen) (ISBN 978-0-47023440-2)

Scientific knowledge is a body of statements of varying degrees of certainty — some most unsure, some nearly sure, none absolutely certain."

Richard Feynman, theoretical physicist, 1965 Nobel Prize

Experimental Physics

Experimental Chemistry

Conceptual Biology

Physics Chemistry Biology

SCIENCE FLOW CHART

Honors Physics Honors Chemistry

Honors Biology

AP (Advanced Placement) and ELECTIVE COURSES: See prerequisites for each course. Typically, students must take the honors course in order to take the AP course in the same discipline.

AP Physics 1

AP Chemistry

AP Physics C

Introduction to Science Research

Research in Biology

Honors Research in Biology

Honors

Research: Nanotechnology

AP Physics 2 Research in Physics

Honors Research in Physics

Honors Research: Synthetic Biology

Honors Computer Modeling

AP Environmental Science

AP Biology

Research in Chemistry

Honors Research in Chemistry

Independent Research Internship (1 and 2)

Anatomy & Physiology of Movement

See prerequisites for each course in the course descriptions. Students take physics in the 9th grade, chemistry in the 10th grade, and biology in the 11th grade. Placement in a “regular,” “conceptual,” or “honors” course does not guarantee or imply placement in the same level in subsequent years.

IB PROGRAM: This course of study starts in 11th grade. Students must meet with the IB program coordinator and commit to two-year courses.

IBSL Biology 1

IBSL Chemistry 1

IBSL Sports, Exercise, and Health Science 1

IBSL Sports, Exercise, and Health Science 2

NOTES:

• All three sciences, physics, chemistry, and biology, are required for graduation.

• The TAS Summer Academy, for students with very strong student skills, offers flexibility in course selection over four years of science and enhances opportunities for scientific research.

• Students with a passion for science and research are encouraged to take advantage of the opportunities in scientific research.

• Availability of elective courses depends on student interest.

• All students should make a four-year plan of study in science to meet prerequisites to achieve their goals.

• Class sizes are capped in some courses.

Forensic Science

Honors Quantum Mechanics and Relativity

IBHL Biology 1

IBHL Chemistry 1

IBHL Chemistry 2

IBSL Chemistry 2

IBHL Biology 2

IBSL Biology 2

The good thing about science is that it’s true whether or not you believe in it."

Neil deGrasse Tyson, astrophysicist

CONCEPTUAL BIOLOGY (USCI041)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 11-12

Prerequisite: Recommendation of current (Chemistry) instructor

Homework: Light

This course is designed to be flexible in content and provide the student with a broad background in biology. The first quarter of study will be similar to the Biology course in the study of the basic nature of living things. From there the course will diverge depending on student interest into molecular and cell biology, genetics, human anatomy and physiology, evolution, and ecology. Activities will include lectures, class discussions, laboratory experiences, and several projects.

Text: Campbell Essential Biology, 5th Edition (ISBN 978-0-32177259-6)

BIOLOGY (USCI04)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 11-12

Prerequisite: Recommendation of current (Chemistry) instructor

Homework: Light

This course is designed to provide the student with a broad background in biology. Students will develop an understanding of the basic nature of living things, molecular and cell biology, genetics, human anatomy and physiology, evolution, and ecology. Activities will include lectures, class discussions, laboratory experiences, and projects.

Text: Biology Life on Earth with Physiology 11th Edition (Pearson) (ISBN 978-0-133-92300-1)

HONORS BIOLOGY (USCI07)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 11-12

Prerequisite: Recommendation of current (Chemistry) instructor

Homework: Moderate

Honors Biology is a year-long course designed to expose students to the major topics in biological science. It is a laboratory-based course which emphasizes the development of biology laboratory skills, as well as critical thinking skills. The course will emphasize the gathering, assessment, and interpretation of scientific data. Topics in biology to be studied include cell biology, energy relationships, and body systems, patterns of inheritance, evolution, and ecological principles. The course provides a broad foundation in biological principles for students who wish to undertake further study in biology through enrollment in Advanced Placement Biology or in Advanced Placement Environmental Science and as an honors level introductory biology course for students who do not plan further studies in biology.

Text: Biology: Concepts & Applications, Tenth Edition (Starr, Evers, Starr) (ISBN 978-1-337-09482-5)

IBSL BIOLOGY YEAR 1 (USCI08) IBSL BIOLOGY YEAR 2 (USCI081)

Duration: 2 years

Credit: 1 per year

Grade: 11-12 (Year 1) - 12 (Year 2)

Prerequisite: Chemistry

Homework: Moderate

The IB Standard Level syllabus is followed in this two-year course. With an emphasis on the nature of science, four basic biological concepts are woven into the course: structure and function, universality versus diversity, equilibrium within systems, and evolution. Laboratory activities will emphasize planning skills, data collection, data analysis, evaluation, and manipulative and personal skills. A multidisciplinary Group 4 Project constitutes a compulsory component of this class and requires student attendance outside of regularly scheduled class hours, most likely on one Saturday or Sunday. IB laboratory investigations and one formal Internal Assessment (IA) will require students to gain mastery in statistics, data analysis, and advanced lab writing skills. The IA will constitute 20% of the final IB score. Core concepts from the curriculum include cell biology, molecular biology, genetics, ecology and evolution, and human physiology.

Text: Pearson Baccalaureate Biology Standard Level 3rd Edition: Standard Level, (Tosto, Damon, Mcgonegal, Ward)

IBHL BIOLOGY YEAR 1 (USCI09)

IBHL BIOLOGY YEAR 2 (USCI10)

Duration: 2 years

Credit: 1 per year

Grade: 11-12 (Year 1) - 12 (Year 2)

Prerequisite: Chemistry

Homework: Moderate

The IB Higher Level syllabus is followed in this two-year course. With an emphasis on the nature of science, four basic biological concepts are woven into the course: structure and function, universality versus diversity, equilibrium within systems, and evolution. Laboratory activities will emphasize planning skills, data collection, data analysis, evaluation, and manipulative and personal skills. A multidisciplinary Group 4 Project constitutes a compulsory component of this class and requires student attendance outside of regularly scheduled class hours, most likely on one Saturday or Sunday. IB laboratory investigations and one formal Internal Assessment (IA) will require students to gain mastery in statistics, data analysis, and advanced lab writing skills. The IA will constitute 20% of the final IB score. Core concepts from the curriculum include cell biology, molecular biology, genetics, ecology and evolution, and human physiology. The distinction between SL and HL is one of breadth and depth.

Text: Pearson Baccalaureate Biology Higher Level 3rd Edition, (Tosto, Mcgonegal, Ward, Damon)

IBSL CHEMISTRY YEAR 1 (USCI14)

IBSL CHEMISTRY YEAR 2 (USCI141)

Duration: 2 years

Credit: 1 per year

Grade: 11-12 (Year 1) - 12 (Year 2)

Prerequisite: Successful completion of or concurrent enrollment in Algebra 2

Homework: Moderate

The IB Standard Level syllabus is followed in this two-year course. Laboratory activities will emphasize planning skills, data collection, data analysis, evaluation, and manipulative and personal skills. Students will spend at least 40 hours on practical work including 10 hours on their Group 4 Project. This multidisciplinary lab project

constitutes a compulsory component of this class and will require student attendance outside of regularly scheduled class hours. The course includes stoichiometry, atomic theory, periodicity, bonding, energy, kinetics, equilibrium, acids and bases, electrochemistry and organic chemistry. The course provides excellent support for students preparing to pursue study in any of the Scientific or Engineering fields. Students are required to sit the IB exam at the completion of year two.

Note: Honors Chemistry cannot be taken in lieu of IBSL year 1

Text: Pearson Baccalaureate Chemistry Higher Level (Pearson Education)

IBHL CHEMISTRY YEAR 1 (USCI12)

IBHL CHEMISTRY YEAR 2 (USCI13)

Duration: 2 years

Credit: 1 per year

Grade: 11-12 (Year 1) - 12 (Year 2)

Prerequisite: Successful completion of or concurrent enrollment in Algebra 2

Homework: Moderate

IB Chemistry is a rigorous and fast-paced two-year sequence of courses satisfying a Higher Level (HL) requirement for an IB diploma. It is equivalent to a first-year college course and emphasizes the development of higher thinking skills by the study of theoretical concepts and laboratory investigations. Students will spend 60 hours on practical work including 10 hours on their Group 4 Project. This multidisciplinary lab project constitutes a compulsory component of this class and will require student attendance outside of regularly scheduled class hours. The course includes stoichiometry, atomic theory, periodicity, bonding, energy, kinetics, equilibrium, acids and bases, electrochemistry and organic chemistry. The course provides excellent support for students preparing to pursue study in any of the Scientific or Engineering fields. Students are required to sit the IB exam at the completion of year two.

Note: Honors Chemistry cannot be taken in lieu of IBHL year 1.

Text: Pearson Baccalaureate Chemistry Higher Level (Pearson Education)

AP BIOLOGY (USCI18)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 11-12

Prerequisite: Honors Biology and Honors Biology teacher’s recommendation

Homework: Moderate

This course is the equivalent of a college biology course and considers in detail such topics as biochemistry, cells, genetics, microbiology, and body structure and function. Emphasis is placed on laboratory activities and gaining an understanding of how biological information is collected and interpreted. The syllabus is structured so that a student will be prepared for the required AP examination at the completion of the course.

Text: Principles of Life, International Third Edition (Hillis, Price, Hill, Hall, Laskowski) (ISBN 978-1-3192-4802-4)

AP CHEMISTRY (USCI19)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 10-12

Prerequisite: Honors Chemistry and Honors Chemistry teacher’s recommendation (or completion of Summer Academy Honors Chemistry course)

Homework: Heavy

AP Chemistry is equivalent to a first year university chemistry course. Students should expect a fast-paced, rigorous course, with emphasis on critical thinking skills. Laboratory work involves significant problem solving, with numerous opportunities to extend lab skills in both quantitative and qualitative analyses.

Text: Chemistry, (Wiley), 7th Edition (Jesperson, Hyslop) (ISBN 9781-118-51646-1)

AP PHYSICS 1 (USCI201)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 10-12

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra 2, completion of Physics, and Physics teacher’s recommendation.

Homework: Moderate

The AP Physics 1 course is equivalent to a semester college physics course. The course will foster a greater conceptual understanding of fundamental physics principals, concepts, and skills through student centered and inquiry based instruction. AP Physics 1 will focus on big ideas as opposed to content coverage. Time will be spent on engaged inquiry-based learning of essential concepts to help develop critical thinking and reasoning. Topics include Kinematics, Newton’s Laws, Torque, Rotational Motion, Angular Momentum, Work, Energy, Power, Momentum, Oscillations, Waves, Sound, and an introduction to circuits. The AP Physics 1 course provides a readiness for the study of further topics in other college level courses such as Physics 2, life sciences, pre-medicine, or applied sciences. The course meets the syllabus requirements for the required Advanced Placement Physics 1 test.

Text: Introduction to Physics 8th Edition (Cutnell and Johnson) (ISBN 978-0-470-40942-8)

AP PHYSICS 2 (USCI203)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 10-12

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Honors Physics, Algebra 2, and Honors Physics teacher’s recommendation.

Homework: Moderate

The AP Physics 2 course is equivalent to a semester college physics course. Understanding fundamental physics principals and applications of concepts and skills learned in Honors Physics or AP Physics 1 is essential to be successful in the course. Critical thinking and reasoning will be developed through student centered and inquiry based instructional practices. First semester topics include a review of Kinematics, Newton’s Laws, Work, Energy, Power, and Momentum. Other topics of study throughout the year include Fluids, thermodynamics, Kinetic Theory, Electrostatics, Electrical Circuits, Magnetic Fields, Electromagnetism, Optics, and Modern Physics. Students who would like to take the AP Physics 1 test will need to complete additional review materials on their own. The Physics 2 course provides a readiness for the study of advanced topics in other college level courses such as life sciences, premedicine, or applied sciences.

Text: Introduction to Physics 8th Edition (Cutnell and Johnson) (ISBN 978-0-470-40942-8)

AP PHYSICS C (MECHANICS, E & M) (USCI21)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 10-12

Prerequisite: Successful completion or concurrent enrollment in AP Calculus BC or AB, completion of Honors Physics, AND Honors Physics teacher’s recommendation

Homework: Heavy

The Physics C course forms the first part of a rigorous college sequence that serves as the foundation of physics for students majoring in the physical sciences or engineering. The sequence is concurrent with or preceded by mathematics courses that include calculus. Methods of calculus are used wherever appropriate in formulating the physical principles and in applying them to physical problems. The sequence is more intensive and analytic than that in the AP Physics 1 and 2. Strong emphasis is placed on solving a variety of challenging problems, some requiring calculus. The subject matter of the C course is mechanics, followed by electricity and magnetism, with approximately equal emphasis on these two areas of study. The course meets the syllabus requirements for the required Advanced Placement Physics C exam.

Text: Physics for Scientists & Engineers, 7th Edition (Serway & Jewett) (ISBN 978-0-495-11223-5)

AP ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE (USCI22)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 11-12

Prerequisite: Honors Chemistry and Honors Biology

Homework: Moderate

This class is equivalent to a semester college environmental science course. The course is interdisciplinary, involving concepts from chemistry, biology, earth science, economics, political science, and ethics. The goal of the course is to provide students with the science

principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world. A concentrated focus is made on human impact on the environment and sustainable practices. Thus, sustainability, climate change, agriculture, air and water pollution, energy and human population growth are at the heart of the course content. Students are required to take the AP exam upon completion of the course.

IBSL SPORTS, EXERCISE, AND HEALTH SCIENCE YEAR 1 (USCI301)

IBSL SPORTS, EXERCISE, AND HEALTH SCIENCE YEAR 2 (USCI302)

Duration: 2 years

Credit: 2

Grade: 11–12 (year 1) - 12 (year 2)

Homework: Moderate

The Sport, Exercise and Health Science IB course is the study of physiological and biochemical responses of the human body to exercise. This course introduces the physiology of exercise with an emphasis on topics in metabolism and muscle physiology. It describes the acute effects of exercise and the influence of chronic exercise training on various functional systems in different populations (age and gender) and under different environmental conditions. Ergogenic and nutritional factors are considered from a physiological perspective.

IB students are required to sit the external IB examination in addition to completing an internal assessment research project that includes a literature review, study design, data collection, data analysis, and results and discussion of your findings.

SEMESTER ELECTIVE COURSES

NOTE TO STUDENTS: When possible, sign up for 2 Semester courses in science. Sign up for Astronomy, Anatomy and Physiology, or others to round out your course schedule. Electives may or may not be offered depending on student interest.

ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY OF MOVEMENT (USCI37)

Duration: 1 semester

Credit: 0.5

Grades: 11–12

Prerequisite: Completion of Biology, Honors Biology, IBSL Biology Yr 1, or IBHL Biology Yr 1

Homework: Light

This semester-long course addresses foundational questions - how are we built? How do we move? Students will study the form and function of the human body as it relates to movement, focusing on the muscular system, energy metabolism, mechanics, and nutrition. Students will learn about the cardiovascular and respiratory responses to exercise that ensure adequate oxygen delivery to contracting skeletal muscles. Joints as levers and how neurotransmitters stimulate skeletal muscle contraction are a part of the curriculum. The content of this course is complemented through microscopy work, dissections, and experimentation. This course is wonderfully suited for those who are interested in kinesiology, physical therapy, exercise science – and those who are generally interested in the science behind being healthy and fit. At the end of the semester, students will have a better understanding of their athlete within!

Text: Biology Life on Earth with Physiology 11th Edition (Pearson) (ISBN 978-0-133-92300-1

FORENSIC SCIENCE (USCI35)

Duration: 1 semester, offered in both semesters

Credit: 0.5

Grades: 11-12

Prerequisites: Completion of Physics and Chemistry; completion or concurrent enrollment in Biology

Homework: Light

Forensic science is a multidisciplinary applied science, encompassing Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and crime scene investigation (CSI). This course will focus on forensic science concepts, including inquiry performance, crime scene investigation, ballistics, fiber evidence, DNA analysis, fingerprinting, trace evidence, blood splatter, tool mark evidence, forensic anthropology, and other applicable concepts of student interest. Class is lab-based and grading will consist of group lab reports, performance assessments where students practice the skills of a CSI scientist, and on student performance on a semester project. The individual or group project allows students to dive deeper into any topic of interest related to the burgeoning field of Forensic Science.

Text: Forensics Science Fundamentals and Investigations (Bertino) (ISBN: 978-0-538-73155-3)

HONORS QUANTUM MECHANICS & RELATIVITY (USCI36)

Duration: 1 semester

Credit: 0.5

Grade: 10-12

Prerequisite: Physics or Honors Physics and completion of Precalculus or enrollment in higher level math course.

Homework: Moderate

This course is ideal for physics students who want to better understand the magical world of quantum mechanics and special relativity! Students first learn the essentials of special relativity, time dilation, the Lorentz transformation, relativistic momentum and

energy, including the origin of Einstein’s E=mc2. The course then shifts gears to the early quantum theory of Bohr, de Broglie, and Schrodinger culminating in the Copenhagen doctrine of quantum mechanics. Students learn to solve the Schrodinger equation both qualitatively and by explicit solution of the Schrodinger equation for simple potential energy profiles corresponding to 1D quantum wells and 3D quantum dots. Python computer code also allows students to solve the Schrodinger equation for more general 1D potential energy profiles. Some previous programming experience would be useful but is not assumed. Finally, we consider the foundational issues in quantum mechanics provoked by recent experimentally verified properties of entanglement, such as nonlocality, Bell’s theorems, relativity, and de Broglie – Bohm theory. We try to answer the Einstein questions: Is there “spooky action at a distance”? Does “God play dice with the universe?” For students who have a very busy schedule, there is a non-honors option for this course which will have less homework.

Text: Teacher’s notes plus Concepts of Modern Physics (Beiser) (ISBN: 978-9-351-34185-7) and QED: The Strange Theory of Light and Matter (Feynman) (ISBN: 978-0691164090).

HONORS COMPUTER MODELING (USCI39)

Duration: 1 semester

Credit: 0.5

Grade: 10-12

Prerequisite: Physics or Honors Physics and completion of Precalculus or enrollment in higher level math course.

Homework: Moderate

This computer science course is ideal for science-mathematics students who wish to learn about numerical modeling of dynamic systems which vary in time and may have numerous applications in science research courses. After a quick review of Python essentials, students learn how to use Numpy and Scipy libraries in Python to quickly evaluate, solve, and visualize the solutions of the types of systems of coupled ordinary and partial differential equations that describe physical, chemical and/or biological systems. Topics include visualization of data and solutions using Matplotlib and Vpython libraries, Fourier transform methods, initial conditions, boundary conditions, function spaces, phase space methods. Several advanced topics are introduced and demonstrated including using Lagrangian methods to obtain differential equations from potential energy expressions and finite difference and finite element for numerically solving systems of partial differential equations in complex domains.

Text: None. Course materials supplied by the teacher.

INTRODUCTION TO SCIENCE RESEARCH (USCI40)

Duration: 1 semester

Credit: 0.5 (1 semester)

Grades: 9-10

Prerequisite: none

Homework: Light to Moderate

The Introduction to Science Research course is designed for high school students who are interested in understanding how

scientists investigate real-world problems. Students will research, plan, design and test a series of hands-on science projects in all three major scientific disciplines: Physics, Chemistry and Biology. The main goal of this course is to introduce students who have never taken a research course to the research process and provide them with an opportunity to apply a logical approach to scientific questions. This course is ideal for 9th or 10th grade students who are looking for a solid foundation in research methods and data evaluation before they take another research course later in high school or in college.

Text: STEM Student Research Handbook (Harland, DJ) (ISBN: 978-1-936-13724-4)

RESEARCH IN CHEMISTRY (USCI27) HONORS RESEARCH IN CHEMISTRY (USCI27H)

NOTE: Honors Research class is a year-long class.

Duration: 1 year or 1 semester (1 semester option must be completed in Semester 1)

Credit: 1.0 (1 year); 0.5 (1 semester)

Grades: 10-12

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Physics or Honors Physics. For Honors: One semester previous research or enrollment in AP/ IBHL Chem.

Homework: Moderate

The Research in Chemistry course is designed as an experimental based course for students interested in various research projects in Chemistry. Students will have the opportunity to design a project that involves one (or more) of the following branches of Chemistry: Material, Analytical, Biochemical, Computational, Organometallic, Organic or Inorganic chemistry. The goal of this course is threefold by providing students with 1) an understanding of how to create a viable chemical research project with multiple variables; 2) a knowledge of how to use a variety of instrumentation, chemical techniques and literature databases; and 3) an avenue to present their findings in written, oral and poster form to teachers and students of other research classes. Truly excellent work may have the option to publish their findings in a chemical journal or present at a chemistry conference. This course is ideal for students looking for a solid foundation on how a research lab operates before they attend college. In order to promote flexibility for students, this course will be designed to complement other research courses and programs.

NOTE: This course can partially fulfill the requirements for the year-long research project in AP Capstone Diploma program.

Text: STEM Student Research Handbook (Harland, DJ) (ISBN: 978-1-936-13724-4)

RESEARCH IN BIOLOGY (USCI26) HONORS RESEARCH IN BIOLOGY (USCI26H)

Note: Honors Research class is a year-long class.

Duration: 1 year or 1 semester (1 semester option must be completed in Semester 1)

Credit: 1.0 (1 year); 0.5 (1 semester)

Grades: 10-12

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Physics or Honors Physics. For Honors: One semester previous research or enrollment in AP/ IBHL Bio.

Homework: Moderate

The Research in Biology course is designed as an experimentbased course for students interested in conducting their own unique research projects. All students in the class will conduct an independent research project based upon a common theme. The goals of this course are threefold: 1) develop the skills needed to design and conduct a unique and relevant research project; 2) build a knowledgebase of how to use a variety of instrumentation, analytical techniques and literature databases; and 3) provide an avenue to present their findings in written, oral and poster form to teachers and students of other research classes. Exceptional work may have the opportunity to publish their findings in a science journal, enter an appropriate scientific competition, or apply to present at a scientific conference. This course is ideal for students looking for a solid foundation in a research lab before they attend college.

Note: This coursework can partially fulfill the requirements for the year-long, research project in AP Research Capstone (Diploma Program).

Text: STEM Student Research Handbook (Harland, DJ) (ISBN: 978-1-936-13724-4)

RESEARCH IN PHYSICS (USCI28) HONORS RESEARCH IN PHYSICS (USCI28H)

NOTE: Honors Research class is a year-long class.

Duration: 1 year or 1 semester (1 semester option must be completed in Semester 1)

Credit: 1.0 (1 year); 0.5 (1 semester)

Grades: 10-12

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Physics or Honors Physics. For Honors: One semester previous research or enrollment in AP Physics.

Homework: Moderate

The Research in Physics course is designed as an experimentbased course for students interested in various research projects in Physics. The goal of this course is threefold by providing students with 1) an understanding of how to create a viable physics research project with multiple variables; 2) a knowledge of how to use a variety of instrumentation, techniques and literature databases; and 3) an avenue to present their findings in written, oral and poster form to teachers and students of other research classes. Truly excellent work may have the option to publish their findings in a scientific journal or present at an academic conference. This course is ideal for students looking for a solid foundation on how a research lab operates before they attend college. In order to promote flexibility for students, this course will be designed to complement other research courses and programs.

NOTE: This course can partially fulfill the requirements for the year-long research project in AP Capstone Diploma program.

Text: STEM Student Research Handbook (Harland, DJ) (ISBN: 978-1-936-13724-4)

HONORS RESEARCH: SYNTHETIC BIOLOGY (USCI411)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 11-12

Prerequisite: Successful completion of a full year TAS research course (or 2 combined semesters of research), AND successful completion or current enrollment in an honors science course (chemistry or biology)

Homework: Moderate to Heavy

The Honors Research course in Synthetic Biology is for students who are interested in biotechnology and engineering. This course offers a unique opportunity to motivated high school students who possess a strong interest in pursuing advanced education in bioscience and biomedical science. The centerpiece of the course is an immersive laboratory experience in which students work in teams to learn the practical and theoretical underpinnings of synthetic biology research. Broadly, the course explores how cellular regulation can be used to engineer cells that accomplish well-defined goals. Students will first learn to critically analyze results, carefully measure and test experiments, and effectively communicate complex ideas through a variety of team-based activities and labs involving report writing, synthetic biology techniques, and presentations. Ultimately, the course culminates in a student-driven and student-chosen team project that aims to create a product or solve a problem through synthetic biology.

Students are expected to develop hands-on skills in Pipetting, Solution Preparation, Spectrophotometry, Bacterial Transformation, DNA and Protein Gel Electrophoresis, Sterile Technique, Microbiology, Molecular Cloning, PCR, and Protein Purification. In addition, students will learn to read research papers and communicate their research to peers and as oral and poster presentations at the TAS Scientific Research Symposium at the end of each semester. Students also have the opportunity to present their work at the BioBuilderClub Final Assembly, an international high school synthetic biology conference.

Text: Biotechnology (Brown) (ISBN 978-0-983-23960-4)

HONORS RESEARCH: NANOTECHNOLOGY (USCI421)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 11-12

Prerequisite: Successful completion of a full year TAS research course (or 2 combined semesters of research) Homework: Moderate to Heavy

The Honors Research course in Nanotechnology is for students who are interested in materials science, which is the combination of engineering with chemistry and applied physics. Students will first learn about current research in the field of nanotechnology and materials science in addition to how the use of nanomaterial will influence future developments in science. Students will then design, build and test their own independent projects in order to investigate the properties of matter on the 5-100nm scale. Using instrumentation such as a nanotube furnace and planetary ball mill, students will synthesize their own nanomaterial. Analysis of these materials can then be performed on an atomic force microscope and a scanning electron microscope at the TAS research laboratory. A possibility of interdisciplinary research with synthetic biology research exists for students interested in Nanobiotechnology and atomic force microscopy. During the year-long course, oral and poster presentations will be given at the science research symposia at the end of each semester.

NOTE: This course can partially fulfill the requirements for the year-long research project in AP Capstone Diploma program

Text: The Science of Nanotechnology: An Introductory Text (Tilstra, Broughton, Tanke, Jelski, French, Zhang, Popov, Western, George) (ISBN 978-1-600-21466-0)

INDEPENDENT RESEARCH INTERNSHIP 1 (USCI231) INDEPENDENT RESEARCH INTERNSHIP 2 (USCI251)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1 (PASS/FAIL)

Grades: 11-12

Prerequisite: Successful completion of a summer research internship and Science Department recommendation Homework: Moderate to Heavy (8 hour of off campus research time per week is required)

This independent study course is for the highly motivated student who wants to experience working in a professional, academic research institution. Students will learn how to select a proper investigation, collect data, systematically analyze results, and then communicate the results at the two TAS scientific research symposia and international research competitions. Research projects will be completed under the supervision of a research mentor at an off-campus location. Students who want to undertake a year-long, off campus research project must enroll as an intern in the TAS Summer Academy Summer Internship program in the summer preceding their enrollment in Advanced Scientific Research I course. Alternatively, students can find their own summer research internships. Students who choose these routes should consult with the Director of Scientific Research to see what internships currently available and what qualifications are necessary to be considered for placement as an intern. Students should plan on spending a significant amount of time commuting to and conducting an off-campus research project. It is recommended that students have 4th period lunch on the same day as their 5th period research class to allow adequate time for research. Some evening, vacation, and weekend time may be required for successful completion of the research. A second year of independent study may be elected as Independent Research Internship 2.

NOTE: This course can partially fulfill the requirements for the year-long research project in AP Capstone Diploma program

Text: None (papers and references will be gathered by the student

At Taipei American School, the study of world languages is considered a core subject. Students are required to reach a 3rd year level proficiency. We offer beginning, intermediate, and advanced level courses in Mandarin, Spanish, and Japanese. Students are strongly encouraged to take four consecutive years of their selected world language. Students may choose to study more than one world language course per year. Students with no prior knowledge or experience in Mandarin, Spanish, or Japanese will be placed into a beginner’s level 1 course. Students wishing to enter a new language program with prior knowledge or experience in that language are required to take a placement test. Students will need to register for the placement test through the World Languages office prior to finalizing their course selections.

MANDARIN AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE 1 (UMAN01)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 9-12

Prerequisites: None

Homework: Moderate

This course is designed to help non-native learners develop a basic proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and computer-based writing and to prepare them for further study of the Mandarin language. The communicative approach is used to introduce vocabulary and grammar structures through the functions of language. Students will also learn the basic principles behind Chinese characters. Authentic materials and cultural information are interwoven throughout the course to provide a framework for language proficiency and an appreciation of Mandarin-speaking cultures.

Text: Chinese Made Easy 輕鬆學漢語

MANDARIN AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE 2 (UMAN02)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 9-12

Prerequisites: Mandarin as a Foreign Language 1 + teacher recommendation

Homework: Moderate

In this course for non-native learners, previously learned vocabulary and structures are reinforced, serving as a transition into new units of study. Students will develop and expand their understanding of how the language functions while continuing to make the Mandarin language relevant to their daily lives. Speaking, listening, reading, and computer-based writing activities are related to everyday needs and experiences. The continued emphasis of this course is on authentic communication and cultural awareness.

Text: Chinese Made Easy 輕鬆學漢語

MANDARIN AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE 3 (UMAN03)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 9-12

Prerequisites: Mandarin as a Foreign Language 2 + teacher recommendation

Homework: Moderate

This course reviews and continues to develop language skills for non-native learners of Mandarin through a communicative approach. Speaking, listening, reading, and computer-based writing activities relate to topics which reflect students’ daily lives. The materials and activities emphasize authentic situations and require thinking, recall, and creativity. Students are encouraged to express their own needs and interests in Mandarin, thus giving them the opportunity to become more confident communicators in the target language.

Text: Chinese Made Easy 輕鬆學漢語

MANDARIN AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE 4 (UMAN04)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 9-12

Prerequisites: Mandarin as a Foreign Language 3 + teacher recommendation

Homework: Moderate

This course continues to develop language skills for non-native learners in Mandarin through a communicative approach. Speaking, listening, reading, and computer-based writing activities relate to topics which reflect community as well as daily lives. The materials and activities emphasize authentic situations and require thinking, recall, and creativity. Students continue

to develop their ability to confidently communicate their own needs and interests in Mandarin. Supplementary materials help to further develop a continued cultural awareness of the Mandarinspeaking world.

Text: Chinese Made Easy 輕鬆學漢語

MANDARIN PROGRAM FLOW CHART

AP CHINESE LANGUAGE & CULTURE (UMAN05)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 11-12

Prerequisites: Mandarin as a Foreign Language 4 + teacher recommendation

Homework: Heavy

This course for non-native learners provides students with opportunities to enhance language development across three modes: interpretive, interpersonal, and presentational. Students will increase their awareness of contemporary and historical Chinese culture through the study of authentic materials including public announcements, advertisements, articles, contemporary literature, and film. Students who enroll in this course are required to take the external AP Chinese Language & Culture exam near the end of the school year.

Texts: Teacher-selected readings and authentic materials in accordance with AP curriculum guidelines

HERITAGE MANDARIN 2 (UMAN12)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 9-12

Prerequisites: Teacher recommendation

Homework: Moderate

This course is targeted at native or near-native Mandarin speakers who are developing their reading and writing abilities. Emphasis is placed on developing a solid grasp of common, high-frequency characters used in one’s daily life. Students will also learn how to communicate effectively in Mandarin through handwritten characters. Speaking activities will challenge students to expand

三人行，必有我師焉。

When I walk along with two others, they may serve me as my teachers.”

their vocabulary to encompass more abstract topics, build more complex arguments, and develop a solid understanding of proper grammar.

Text: 當代中文課程 (A Course in Contemporary Chinese)

HERITAGE MANDARIN 3 (UMAN13)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 9-12

Prerequisites: Heritage Mandarin 2 + teacher recommendation

Homework: Moderate

This course is targeted at native or near-native Mandarin speakers to further develop their reading and character-writing proficiency. Students will be expected to compose longer, more in-depth, and well-argued compositions, as well as begin to read and discuss original written Chinese language texts. Students will further develop their ability to utilize technology as a means for authentic communication. Speaking activities will target more formal rhetorical speech elements, such as presentations and topicbased panel discussions.

Text: 當代中文課程 (A Course in Contemporary Chinese)

HONORS HERITAGE MANDARIN 4 (UMAN14)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 9-12

Prerequisites: Heritage Mandarin 3 + teacher recommendation

Homework: Heavy

This course further prepares students to communicate using Mandarin in more formal language settings. Spoken activities emphasize presentations, oral reports, and debates. Students will develop further confidence and ability in written forms. Students will engage in creative writing activities, as well as conduct research and write reports in Mandarin. In this class, students transition from using prepared textbook materials to more reallife content and abridged articles. Students will build on their fluency in Mandarin to communicate through a variety of means and discourse models.

Texts: 當代中文課程 (A Course in Contemporary Chinese); teacherselected readings and authentic materials

HONORS HERITAGE MANDARIN 5 (UMAN15)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 9-12

Prerequisites: Honors Heritage Mandarin 4 + teacher recommendation

Homework: Heavy

In this course, activities are based upon authentic materials and situations that require thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. Emphasis is placed on comprehending more complex authentic oral and written communication and responding appropriately and intelligently both orally and in writing. Students are encouraged to express not only their own needs and interests but also their opinions on a variety of contemporary and cultural issues. Supplementary materials further develop and integrate the students’ language skills as well as foster an awareness and appreciation of the Mandarin-speaking world.

Texts: 當代中文課程 (A Course in Contemporary Chinese); teacherselected readings and authentic materials

IBSL CHINESE B (UMAN16)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 11-12

Prerequisites: Honors Heritage Mandarin 5 + teacher recommendation

Homework: Heavy

This course prepares students to communicate comfortably and effectively in Mandarin, both orally and in written form through the use of authentic language materials. Students will study how to handle and process information, write their own texts, understand and respond to oral and written communication, and enter intellectual discussions on a range of topics. Additionally, students will continue to develop an awareness and appreciation of Mandarin-speaking cultures. Students who enroll in this course are required to take the external IBSL Chinese B exam near the end of the school year.

Texts: Teacher-selected readings and materials in accordance with IB curriculum guidelines

HONORS SEMINAR: CURRENT MANDARIN TOPICS (UMAN17)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 12

Prerequisites: IBSL Chinese B + teacher recommendation

Homework: Heavy

This course further develops students’ confidence and skills to communicate effectively in Mandarin, both orally and in written form through the use of authentic language materials. Students will hone their ability to comprehend and participate in formal and informal conversations and to express their ideas with increased accuracy and fluency. They will acquire new vocabulary and build the necessary skills for in-depth reading of a variety of texts. Additionally, students will continue to develop an awareness and appreciation of the cultures and history related to the language studied.

*The offering of this course for 2024-2025 is dependent upon student interest and enrollment.

Texts: Teacher-selected readings and authentic materials

HONORS ADVANCED HERITAGE MANDARIN 1 (UMAN21)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 9-12

Prerequisites: Teacher recommendation

Homework: Heavy

This course prepares students to communicate comfortably and effectively both orally and in written form. Students study a variety of texts (including novels, short stories, and selected articles) to explore themes such as traditional Chinese values and their impact on modern life, personal growth, communication, and technology. An emphasis is placed on acquisition of vocabulary and practice of sentence patterns as students work to refine their composition skills. Oral expression will be reinforced through regular class discussions and presentations.

Texts may include: 賴小禾《動物狂想曲》; 鄭宗弦《媽祖回娘家》; 王 淑芬《親愛的綠》; 陳榕笙《孤狗少年》; additional teacher-selected materials

HONORS ADVANCED HERITAGE MANDARIN 2 (UMAN22)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 9-12

Prerequisites: Honors Advanced Heritage Mandarin 1 + teacher recommendation

Homework: Heavy

This course explores modern-day themes through the study of a variety of texts (including novels, short stories, and selected articles). Continued emphasis is placed upon effective communication both orally and in written form. Vocabulary acquisition remains of primary importance as does the development of polished writing skills in a variety of styles. Oral expression will be reinforced through regular class discussions and presentations.

Texts may include: 張友漁《目擊證人》; 鄭丞鈞《我的麗莎阿姨》; 陳 幸蕙編《我只想回到自己的家》; 侯文詠《侯文詠極短篇》; additional teacher-selected materials

HONORS ADVANCED HERITAGE MANDARIN 3 (UMAN23)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 9-12

Prerequisites: Honors Advanced Heritage Mandarin 2 + teacher recommendation

Homework: Heavy

This course enables students to develop their language skills by exploring contemporary issues through the study of a variety of texts (including novels, short stories, and selected articles). Students will continue to refine their ability to write in a more sophisticated manner through essays and research projects. Oral expression will be reinforced through regular class presentations and discussions.

Texts may include: 林良《會走路的人》; 汪莫《寫給喧囂的37個安靜練 習》; 劉臺痕《閻王不要的小子》; 李家同選集; 蘇兒真《法律的背後,是 愛的戀習曲》; additional teacher-selected materials

IBHL CHINESE B (UMAN24)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 12

Prerequisites: Honors Advanced Heritage Mandarin 3 + teacher recommendation

Homework: Heavy

This course continues to emphasize the use of language for active communication through the use of authentic materials. Students will work on comprehending and participating in formal and informal conversations as well as expressing their ideas with increased accuracy and fluency. They will acquire the new vocabulary and skills necessary for in-depth reading of a variety of texts and refine their ability to write in a more sophisticated manner. Students who enroll in this course are required to take the external IBHL Chinese B exam near the end of the school year.

Texts: Teacher-selected readings and materials in accordance with IB curriculum guidelines

HONORS ADVANCED LITERATURE IN MANDARIN 1 (UMAN31)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 9-12

Prerequisites: Teacher recommendation

Homework: Heavy

In this course, students will practice critical reading, thinking, and written analysis in Mandarin. Various texts, including novels and Chinese poems, will be analyzed. Students are expected to demonstrate independent initiative when interpreting these texts and will articulate ideas with sophistication. This course has a significant reading and writing homework component.

Texts may include: 亞榮隆‧撒可努《山豬．飛鼠．撒可努》; 鍾肇政 《白翎鷥之歌》; 龍應台《孩子你慢慢來》; 陳幸蕙主編《49個夕陽》; additional teacher-selected materials

HONORS ADVANCED LITERATURE IN MANDARIN 2 (UMAN32)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 10-12

Prerequisites: Honors Advanced Literature in Mandarin 1 + teacher recommendation

Homework: Heavy

Building on the literary analysis work established the previous year, this course further strengthens students’ abilities to read critically and discuss literature through various interpretive lenses. There are rigorous expectations for in-depth written analysis and critical interpretations of various genres of literature. Moreover, oral presentations and class discussions require students to express nuanced ideas when speaking. This course has a significant reading and writing homework component.

Texts may include: 三毛《撒哈拉歲月》;《守候盼望》; 劉俐譯 Antoine de Saint-Exupéry《小王子》; 吳濁流《先生媽》; 洪醒夫《黑 面慶仔》; additional teacher-selected materials

IBSL CHINESE A LANGUAGE & LITERATURE YEAR 1 (UMAN33)

IBSL CHINESE A LANGUAGE & LITERATURE YEAR 2 (UMAN35)

Duration: 2 years

Credit: 1 per year

Grades: 11 (year 1) – 12 (year 2)

Prerequisites: Honors Advanced Literature in Mandarin 2 + teacher recommendation

Homework: Heavy

This course is a concentrated two-year program focused on the study of Chinese language and literature. Students will further their command of written and spoken Mandarin by writing literary analysis essays and participating in oral activities including presentations, class discussions, dramatizations, and debates. Students will engage in the study of topics that relate to language in cultural context. Students who enroll in this course are required to take the external IBSL Chinese A exam near the end of the second year.

Texts: Teacher-selected readings and materials in accordance with IB curriculum guidelines

IBHL CHINESE A LANGUAGE & LITERATURE YEAR 1 (UMAN34)

IBHL CHINESE A LANGUAGE & LITERATURE YEAR 2 (UMAN36)

Duration: 2 years

Credit: 1 per year

Grades: 11-12 (year 1) – 12 (year 2)

Prerequisites: Honors Advanced Literature in Mandarin 2 + teacher recommendation

Homework: Heavy

This course is a concentrated two-year program focused on the study of Chinese language and literature. Students will further their command of written and spoken Mandarin through the study of a wide range of genres and rigorous literary analysis. Requirements of the course include both oral and written critiques, comparative commentaries, essays, and creative writing assignments. Students who enroll in this course are required to take the external IBHL Chinese A exam near the end of the second year.

Texts: Teacher-selected readings and materials in accordance with IB curriculum guidelines

HONORS ADVANCED LITERATURE IN MANDARIN 3 (UMAN37)

HONORS ADVANCED LITERATURE IN MANDARIN 4 (UMAN38)

Duration: 1 or 2 years

Credit: 1 per year

Grades: 11-12

Prerequisites: Honors Advanced Literature in Mandarin 2 + teacher recommendation

Homework: Heavy

These courses will continue to strengthen students’ abilities to read critically and discuss literature through various interpretive lenses. Students will develop the language skills necessary to become highly proficient readers and writers of Mandarin. Students will engage in the study of well-known literary works. This course has a significant reading and writing homework component.

*The offering of this course for 2024-2025 is dependent upon student interest and enrollment.

Texts: Teacher-selected readings and authentic materials

IBSL MANDARIN AB INITIO YEAR 1 (UMAN411) IBSL MANDARIN AB INITIO YEAR 2 (UMAN412)

Duration: 2 years

Credit: 1 per year

Grades: 11 (year 1) - 12 (year 2)

Prerequisites: teacher recommendation

Homework: Heavy

This course prepares IB diploma students new to handwriting characters to communicate comfortably and effectively in Mandarin. Students will practice and be assessed on their ability to handle and process information, write their own text, understand and respond to oral and written communication, and participate in discussions on a range of topics. Authentic materials will be used throughout to integrate the language skills of reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Students who enroll in this course are required to take the external IBSL Mandarin ab Initio exam near the end of their two-year course (senior year).

*The offering of this course for 2024-2025 is dependent upon student interest and enrollment.

Texts: Teacher-selected readings and authentic materials in accordance with IB curriculum guidelines

SPANISH 1 (UWLD11)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 9-12

Prerequisites: None

Homework: Moderate

This course is designed to help students develop a basic proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing and to prepare them for further study of the Spanish language. The communicative approach is used to introduce vocabulary and structures through the functions of the language. Authentic materials and cultural information are interwoven throughout the course to provide a framework for proficiency in the language and an appreciation of the cultures of the countries where Spanish is spoken.

Text: VISTAS Introducción a la lengua española

SPANISH 2 (UWLD12)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 9-12

Prerequisites: Spanish 1 + teacher recommendation

Homework: Moderate

In this course, previously learned vocabulary and structures are reinforced, serving as a transition into new units of study. The students’ understanding of how the language functions is expanded while continuing to make the Spanish language relevant to their daily lives. Emphasis is placed upon continued authentic communication, cultural awareness, and relying on Spanish for comprehension.

Text: VISTAS Introducción a la lengua española

SPANISH 3 (UWLD13)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 9-12

Prerequisites: Spanish 2 + teacher recommendation

Homework: Moderate

This course reviews and continues to develop language skills in Spanish through a communicative approach. Materials and activities emphasize authentic situations of daily life and require thinking, recall, and creativity. Students are encouraged to express their own needs and interests in the Spanish language, thus giving them the opportunity to become more confident in speaking, listening, reading, and writing.

Text: ENFOQUES Curso intermedio de lengua española

SPANISH PROGRAM FLOW CHART

To complete the 3rd year proficiency requirement, students must complete one year of an Upper School course at the Spanish 3 proficiency level or higher.

The IBSL Spanish B exam may be taken in junior or senior year; students may take the course over a period of 1 or 2 years. The IBHL exam may be taken in senior year only; this is a two-year course. The IBSL ab initio exam (IB Diploma students) may be taken in senior year only;

Solid lines indicate the standard path; dashed lines indicate alternative path options available with teacher permission.

Students enter the Spanish program based upon their language proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Students with previous knowledge or language experience who are not currently enrolled in a Spanish course at TAS will need to take a placement test.

the maximum level of study is Honors Spanish 4.

HONORS SPANISH 3 (UWLD13H)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 9-12

Prerequisites: Spanish 2 + teacher recommendation

Homework: Heavy

This course reviews and continues to develop language skills in Spanish through a communicative approach. Speaking, listening, reading, and writing activities relate to topics which reflect daily life. Oral comprehension and proficiency will be stressed, and students will be expected to demonstrate greater independent initiative when completing practice activities. Homework expectations and standards for sophisticated and accurate language usage are significantly higher in Honors Spanish 3.

Text: ENFOQUES Curso intermedio de lengua española

SPANISH 4 (UWLD14)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 9-12

Prerequisites: Spanish 3 or Honors Spanish 3 + teacher recommendation

Homework: Moderate

This course continues to develop Spanish language skills through a communicative approach. Speaking, listening, reading, and writing activities relate to topics which reflect community as well as daily life. Students are encouraged to express their own needs and interests in the Spanish language, thus enabling them to become more confident language learners. Supplementary materials help to further develop the students’ reading and writing skills as well as a continued cultural awareness of the Spanish-speaking world.

Text: ENFOQUES Curso intermedio de lengua española

HONORS SPANISH 4 (UWLD14H)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 9-12

Prerequisites: Spanish 3 or Honors Spanish 3 + teacher recommendation

Homework: Heavy

This course will stress proficiency in all language skills with a strong emphasis on grammar. Speaking, listening, reading, and writing activities relate to topics which reflect community as well as daily life. Students are encouraged to express their own needs and interests in the Spanish language. Supplementary materials help to further develop the students’ reading and writing skills as well as a continued cultural awareness of the Spanish-speaking world. Homework expectations and standards for sophisticated and accurate language usage are significantly higher in Honors Spanish 4.

Text: ENFOQUES Curso intermedio de lengua española

HONORS SPANISH 5 (UWLD15H)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 10-12

Prerequisites: Spanish 4 or Honors Spanish 4 + teacher recommendation

Homework: Heavy

This course prepares students to communicate comfortably and effectively in Spanish, both orally and in written form. Students will practice and be assessed on their ability to handle and process information, write their own text, understand and respond to oral and written communication, and participate in intellectual discussions on a range of topics. Authentic materials will be used throughout to integrate the language skills of reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Students are expected to demonstrate in-depth cultural awareness and appreciation of the Spanishspeaking world.

Texts: TEMAS para Español B; teacher-selected readings and materials

WORLD LANGUAGES

IBSL SPANISH B (UWLD15)

Duration: 1 or 2 years

Credit: 1 per year

Grades: 11-12

Prerequisites: Spanish 4 or Honors Spanish 4 or Honors Spanish 5 + teacher recommendation

Homework: Heavy

This course prepares students to communicate comfortably and effectively in Spanish, both orally and in written form. Students will practice and be assessed on their ability to handle and process information, write their own text, understand and respond to oral and written communication, and participate in intellectual discussions on a range of topics. Authentic materials will be used throughout to integrate the language skills of reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Students who enroll in this course are required to take the external IBSL Spanish B exam near the end of their one-year or two-year course (junior or senior year).

Texts: TEMAS para Español B; teacher-selected readings and materials in accordance with IB curriculum guidelines

IBHL SPANISH B YEAR 1 (UWLD162)

IBHL SPANISH B YEAR 2 (UWLD163)

Duration: 2 years

Credit: 1 per year

Grades: 11 (year 1) – 12 (year 2)

Prerequisites: Honors Spanish 4 + teacher recommendation

Homework: Heavy

This course continues to emphasize the use of language for active communication. Authentic materials are used throughout to integrate the language skills of reading, writing, listening, and

speaking. Students will hone their ability to comprehend and participate in formal and informal conversations, and to express their ideas with increased accuracy and fluency. They will acquire the vocabulary and structures necessary for in-depth reading of a variety of authentic texts and refine their ability to write in a sophisticated manner. Students who enroll in this course are required to take the external IBHL Spanish B exam at the end of their two-year course (senior year).

Texts: TEMAS para Español B; teacher-selected readings and materials in accordance with IB curriculum guidelines

AP SPANISH LANGUAGE & CULTURE (UWLD181)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 11-12

Prerequisites: Honors Spanish 4 or Honors Spanish 5 + teacher recommendation

Homework: Heavy

This course continues to emphasize the use of language for active communication. Authentic materials are used throughout to integrate the language skills of reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Students will hone their ability to comprehend and participate in formal and informal conversations, and to express their ideas with increased accuracy and fluency. They will acquire the vocabulary and structures necessary for in-depth reading of a variety of authentic texts and refine their ability to write in a sophisticated manner. Students who enroll in this course are required to take the external AP Spanish Language and Culture exam near the end of the school year.

Texts: TEMAS Spanish Language and Culture; teacher-selected readings and materials in accordance with AP curriculum guidelines

A pesar de las distancias, la gente es parecida en todos lados. Las similitudes que nos unen son mucho más que las diferencias que nos separan.

Despite the distances, people are similar everywhere. The similarities that unite us are much more than the differences that separate us.”

AP SPANISH LITERATURE & CULTURE (UWLD191)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 12

Prerequisites: AP Spanish Language & Culture + teacher recommendation

Homework: Heavy

This intensive course is designed for students with advanced language proficiency and interest in Spanish. Students will practice critical reading, thinking, and written analysis in Spanish through the study of various types of texts including novels, short stories, poetry, and essays based on the AP Spanish curriculum reading list. Students are expected to demonstrate independent initiative when analyzing and interpreting these texts and will articulate ideas with sophistication. This course has a significant reading and writing homework component. Students who enroll in this course are required to take the external AP Spanish Literature and Culture exam near the end of the school year.

Texts: ABRIENDO PUERTAS; teacher-selected readings and materials in accordance with AP curriculum guidelines

JAPANESE 1 (UWLD21)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 9-12

Prerequisites: None

Homework: Moderate

This course is designed to help students develop a basic proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing and to prepare them for further study of the Japanese language. The communicative approach is used to introduce vocabulary and structures through the functions of the language. Students learn the Japanese sound system. The HIRAGANA and KATAKANA writing notations are introduced from the outset. The 72 basic characters of KANJI symbols related to the unit topics are introduced.

Texts: Genki 1; additional teacher-selected materials

JAPANESE 2 (UWLD22)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 9-12

Prerequisites: Japanese 1 + teacher recommendation

Homework: Moderate

In this course, previously learned vocabulary and structures are reinforced, serving as a transition into new units of study. The students’ understanding of how the language functions is expanded while continuing to make the Japanese language relevant to their daily lives. Emphasis is placed upon continued authentic communication, cultural awareness, and relying on Japanese for comprehension. An additional 73 KANJI symbols related to the unit topics are introduced.

Texts: Genki 1; additional teacher-selected materials

Isabel Allende

JAPANESE PROGRAM FLOW CHART

IBSL Japanese B

AP Japanese Language and Culture

Students enter the Japanese program based upon their language proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Students with previous knowledge or language experience who are not currently enrolled in a Japanese course at TAS will need to take a placement test.

To complete the 3rd year proficiency requirement, students must complete one year of an Upper School course at the Japanese 3 proficiency level or higher.

The IBSL Japanese B exam may be taken in junior or senior year; this is a one-year course. The IBSL ab initio exam (IB Diploma students) may be taken in senior year only; the maximum level of study is Japanese 3.

JAPANESE 3 (UWLD23)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 10-12

Prerequisites: Japanese 2 + teacher recommendation

Homework: Moderate

In this course, previously learned vocabulary and structures are reinforced. Students learn to express their opinions and exchange information in a more sophisticated manner and make the Japanese language relevant to their daily lives. Students’ understanding of how the language functions is expanded thus providing the opportunity to become more confident in speaking, listening, reading, and writing. The stress is on continued authentic communication, cultural awareness, and relying on Japanese for comprehension. An additional 79 KANJI symbols related to the unit topics are introduced.

Texts: Genki 2; additional teacher-selected materials

AP JAPANESE LANGUAGE & CULTURE (UWLD241) IBSL JAPANESE B (UWLD261)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 11-12

Prerequisites: Japanese 3 + teacher recommendation

Homework: Heavy

This course continues to develop language skills in Japanese through a communicative approach. Speaking, listening, reading, and writing activities relate to a broad range of topics. The activities are based upon authentic materials and situations that require thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. Emphasis is placed on comprehending more complex authentic oral and written communication and responding appropriately and intelligently both orally and in writing. An additional 93 KANJI symbols related to the unit topics are introduced. Students who enroll in this course are required to take the according external AP Japanese Language and Culture exam or IBSL Japanese B exam near the end of the school year.

Texts: Genki 2; teacher-selected readings and materials in accordance with AP / IB curriculum guidelines

ペンは剣よりも強し。

The pen is mightier than the sword.”

Yukichi Fukuzawa

Japanese 1 Japanese 2 Japanese 3

Successful completion of Reading Greek & Latin or Honors

Reading Greek & Latin satisfies the TAS graduation requirement in languages. At TAS, the Greek and Latin languages are taught together through an innovative storytelling curriculum developed at TAS. In the introductory levels, emphasis is on reading and understanding increasingly complex sentences in context, and on producing appropriate oral and written responses in Greek and Latin. The program leads to success in advanced university-level courses, the IB Greek and/or Latin Examinations, and the AP Latin Examination.

After mastering the fundamentals of reading in Reading Greek and Latin or Honors Reading Greek & Latin, students can select any advanced course in Latin or Greek, or in both Latin and Greek. All courses at all levels include the study of the myths, history, art, and culture of the ancient Mediterranean world. Each course is specifically created for the students in it, and materials for each year are custom designed and never re-used. Every course helps students improve their language skills at their own rate. Any student who works hard can succeed in Greek and Latin at TAS.

ELEMENTARY GREEK & LATIN (UCLS01)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 9-12

Prerequisite: None

Homework: Moderate

No previous knowledge required. Students begin by learning the important characteristics of Greek and Latin,and comparing those to English and Chinese. Important grammatical and linguistic terms are introduced and employed in analyzing Greek, Latin, and English sentences. At the end of the year, students are comfortable reading simple stories in Greek and Latin, and they are able to respond to those stories in oral and written Greek and Latin. External contests include the National Latin Exam, the National Greek Exam, and the National Classical Etymology Exam. Additional study includes an introduction to the history and geography of the ancient Mediterranean world.

INTERMEDIATE GREEK & LATIN (UCLS02)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 9-12

Prerequisite: Elementary Greek & Latin (with grade of B or higher)

Homework: Moderate

Prerequisites: (1) study of Greek and Latin in the TAS middle school, or (2) study of Greek and/or Latin at another school, or (3) successful completion of Elementary Greek & Latin at TAS. Enrollment in Intermediate Greek & Latin must always be approved by the TAS Greek & Latin Department. Students rapidly review all fundamental concepts of morphology, grammar, and syntax while reading and responding to stories in Greek and Latin. Upon completion of Intermediate Greek & Latin, students are able to read complex stories in Greek and Latin, and they can respond to those stories appropriately in Greek and Latin. External contests include the National Latin Exam, the National Greek Exam, and the National Classical Etymology Exam. Students continue their study of the history and geography of the ancient Mediterranean world with a focus on late republican Rome and fifth century Athens.

HONORS READING GREEK & LATIN (UCLS02H)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 9-12

Prerequisite: Elementary Greek & Latin, and department permission

Homework: Heavy

All material in Intermediate Greek & Latin and Reading Greek & Latin (see below) is covered in the course of one year. Homework expectations for this course are high. Enrollment is by permission of the department.

Μὴ ζήτει τὰ γινόμενα γίνεσθαι ὡς θέλεις, ἀλλὰ θέλε τὰ γινόμενα ὡς γίνεται καὶ εὐροήσεις.

Don’t wish the things that are to be as you want, but want the things that are to be as they are, and you will be happy”

Epictetus, Encheiridion

READING GREEK & LATIN (UCLS03)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 9-12

Prerequisite: Intermediate Greek & Latin (grade of B or higher)

Homework: Moderate

Rerum primordia pandam, unde omnis natura creet res.

I shall make visible to you the atoms from which physics builds all things.”

Lucretius On Physics

Intermediate level leads to Reading level. Honors Reading Greek and Latin (by department permission) leads directly to advanced classes. Entry level for students who

The course begins with a review of Latin and Greek grammar, along with additional study of some more complex structures. Students then begin reading the Latin authors like Caesar, Vergil and Cicero, and selections from the works of Plato, Xenophon, and Lysias in Greek. Students sit for the National Latin Exam, and the National Greek Exam. College-level study with independent research.

ADVANCED LATIN (UCLS07)

ADVANCED ANCIENT GREEK (UCLS08)

ADVANCED GREEK & LATIN (UCLS09)

HONORS ADVANCED LATIN (UCLS07H) HONORS ADVANCED ANCIENT GREEK (UCLS08H) HONORS ADVANCED GREEK AND LATIN (UCLS09H)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 9-12

Prerequisite: Reading Greek & Latin (honors levels require department permission)

Homework: Heavy

Advanced courses are custom-built for the students who enroll. Topics and syllabi change every year in accord with the interests of the students. Students work with their teachers to identify topics they want to explore in detail. Their research includes reading in Greek and/or Latin, reading in translation, and the study of physical objects, datasets, maps, etc. In the past, advanced students have studied Greek mathematics, ancient history, the history of science, epigraphy, and many other topics as well. All honors courses require departmental permission, which is granted by the members of the department according to their judgment and is not based on a placement exam or grade cutoff.

IBSL CLASSICAL LANGUAGES (LATIN) (UCLS051)

IBSL CLASSICAL LANGUAGES (GREEK) (UCLS052)

IBHL CLASSICAL LANGUAGES (LATIN) (UCLS061)

IBHL CLASSICAL LANGUAGES (GREEK) (UCLS062)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 9-12

Prerequisite: Reading Greek & Latin or Honors Reading Greek and Latin and Permission of Department

Homework: Heavy

IB courses in Greek and Latin are offered at both SL and HL levels. The IB program offers many options for prescribed readings. There are dozens of possible syllabi grouped by topic on offer every year, and all options change every five years. Accordingly, TAS never teaches the same syllabus twice. In addition to the prescribed readings, students read extensively on their chosen topics both in the original language and in translation. All IB Classical Languages courses also include an independent research project, ongoing from November through April. The IB score is based on evaluation of the independent research project and two separate examinations, one testing the student's ability to translate accurately, and the other testing the student's knowledge of the texts they have selected to read.

AP LATIN (UCLS04)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 9-12

Prerequisite: Reading Greek & Latin or Honors Reading Greek and Latin and Permission of Department

Homework: Heavy

AP Latin is a reading course based on selected works of Julius Caesar (Gallic Wars) and Vergil (Aeneid). Some reading assignments are in Latin, while others are in translation. These set readings do not change from one year to the next. The AP grade is based solely on the result of a two part examination which students sit on one day in May.

Graduation Requirement:

This requirement can be fulfilled by taking visual arts or performing arts courses which total 1 credit.

Note that students may NOT satisfy both the public speaking and the performing & visual arts requirements with the same course.

MUSIC

Students are admitted to an Honors Level Class who meet the following criteria:

• By approval of the class teacher

• Grade 10, 11 and 12

• Displays exceptional performance and musicianship skills

• Prior participation in Upper School music program

• Musical leadership and/or role model in ensemble classes

• Displayed service to the music program

The following classes are combined and are scheduled at the same time:

• Concert Choir and Honors Concert Choir

• Opus and Honors Opus

• String Orchestra and Honors String Orchestra

• Orchestra and Honors Orchestra

• Symphonic Band and Honors Symphonic Band

• Wind Ensemble and Honors Wind Ensemble

• Jazz Ensemble and Honors Jazz Ensemble

• Composition & Songwriting and Honors Composition & Songwriting

• Flute Chamber Ensemble and Honors Flute Chamber Ensemble

• Music Production and Technology and Honors Music Production and Technology

• Piano Performance and Honors Piano Performance

CONCERT CHOIR (UMUS01) HONORS CONCERT CHOIR (UMUS02)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 9-12 (10-12 for Honors)

Homework: Light

This class is open to all students. Students in this class sing a variety of choral repertoire that spans many styles and musical periods. Instruction in solo and ensemble vocal technique, performance skills, composition concepts, rehearsal technique and music literacy is provided. Students are given the opportunity to work with master musicians from the Taipei community, furthering students’ technical foundations and musicianship. There are 3 required concert performances on campus. This choir is not auditioned, but a brief interview with the director to check pitch and range is required for new choir students prior to placement. As part of the class, students will participate in Vocal Studio where as individuals or small groups students will receive sessions with the teacher focused on vocal health and singing technical development, solo song or audition preparations and enhanced instruction developing musicianship. Students in Honors Concert Choir must have completed a year of Concert Choir as a prerequisite and are expected to take leadership roles in the choir and learn a solo art song. Additionally, Honors students are highly encouraged to enrol in the Vocal Studio (UMUS25) class referred to above.

If we are to hope for a society of culturally literate people, Music must be a vital part of our children’s education.”

MUSIC FLOW CHART

BAND VOCAL STRING ELECTIVES

Beginning

Band Gr. 9 -12 *

Symphonic Band

Gr. 9 - 12

Honors

Symphonic Band

Gr. 10 - 12

Wind Ensemble

Gr. 9 - 12 (auditioned)

Honors Wind Ensemble

Gr. 10 - 12 (auditioned)

Jazz Ensemble Gr. 9 - 12 (auditioned)

Honors Jazz Ensemble Gr. 10 - 12 (auditioned)

* pending sufficient enrollment

Concert Choir

Gr. 9 - 12

Philharmonia Strings

Gr. 9 - 12

Honors

Philharmonia Strings

Gr. 10 - 12

Honors Concert Choir

Gr. 10 - 12

Opus

Gr. 9 - 12 (auditioned)

Honors Opus Gr. 10 - 12 (auditioned)

Premier Strings

Gr. 9 - 12 (auditioned)

Honors

Premier Strings Gr. 10 - 12 (auditioned)

Composition & Songwriting

Gr. 9-12

Honors Composition & Songwriting

Gr. 10-12

Music Production & Technology

Gr. 9-12

Honors Music Production & Technology 1 Gr. 10-12

Honors Music

Production & Technology 2 Gr. 11-12

Honors Music Production & Technology 3 Gr. 12

Flute Chamber Ensemble (1 semester or 1 year) Gr. 9-12

Honors

Flute Chamber Ensemble (1 semester or 1 year)

Gr. 10-12

Piano Performance (Sem. 1) Gr. 9-12

Honors Piano Performance (Sem. 1) Gr. 10-12

AP Music Theory

Gr. 10-12 (teacher recommendation)

IBSL Music 1 / IBHL Music 1 Gr. 11 (teacher recommendation)

IBSL Music 2 / IBHL Music 2 Gr. 12

OPUS: VOCAL ENSEMBLE (UMUS03)

HONORS OPUS: VOCAL ENSEMBLE (UMUS04)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 9-12 (10-12 for Honors)

Homework: Light

Opus is an auditioned vocal ensemble. Students in this class sing a variety of advanced choral repertoire that spans many styles and musical periods. Instruction in solo and ensemble vocal technique, performance skills, composition concepts, rehearsal technique and music literacy is provided. Students are given the opportunity to work with master musicians from the Taipei community in master class settings and in Chamber Music small ensemble preparations, furthering students’ technical foundations and musicianship. There are several concerts during the year; some performances may be off campus. Auditions are held in early spring for the following year’s choir. Opus students must have previous ensemble experience and a good working knowledge of music theory. Successful candidates are offered a place in Opus for one year. Existing members must re-audition. As part of the class, students will participate in Vocal Studio where as individuals or small groups students will receive sessions with the teacher focused on vocal health and singing technical development, solo song or audition preparations and enhanced instruction developing musicianship. Students in Honors Opus must have completed a year of Opus as a prerequisite. Students in Honors Opus are also expected to take leadership roles in the choir, learn a solo art song, and perform in or conduct a small ensemble.

COMPOSITION & SONGWRITING (UMUS042) HONORS COMPOSITION & SONGWRITING (UMUS042H)

Duration: 1 Year

Credit: 1

Grade: 9-12 (10-12 for Honors)

Homework: Moderate

Students will develop the foundation of music composition through the medium of songwriting, exploring a range of different styles and learning how to compose in each.Through listening to a range of music, students will learn to extract the key features of different genres and learn to incorporate these into their own compositions.Students will learn the nuances of melodic writing,

harmony, arrangement/orchestration et al. This course is aimed at students who already play a musical instrument or sing, with some degree of musical literacy. You do not need to know to how to compose already. This course will provide a strong foundation for further academic music study. Students in Honors Composition and Songwriting must have completed a year of Composition and Songwriting as a prerequisite or submit a portfolio of work for instructor approval, they will be required to complete additional assignments and tasks.

PHILHARMONIA STRINGS (UMUS051) HONORS PHILHARMONIA STRINGS (UMUS061)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 9-12 (10-12 for Honors)

Homework: Moderate

This class consists of intermediate to advanced players of violin, viola, cello, and bass. The students rehearse and perform orchestra music representing a variety of styles and appropriate developmental level. Solo performance and chamber music ensembles may also be included. For the latter, the students are provided the opportunity to be coached by master musicians from the Taipei community. Along with the performance emphasis of this course, there is also integration of technical studies for skill development, music theory, and music listening. Students must own their own instruments with the exception of viola and double bass. For new students to the school, entrance into the class is based on a performance placement test; continuing string program students require teacher recommendation. Students in Honors Philharmonia Strings must have completed a year of Philharmonia Strings as a prerequisite. Students in the Honors class are also expected to demonstrate musical leadership and perform additional repertoire.

PREMIER STRINGS (UMUS071)

HONORS PREMIER STRINGS (UMUS081)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 9-12 (10-12 for Honors)

Homework: Moderate

This is a performance based class for advanced players of violin, viola, cello and double bass in which skills of string technique, theory and musicianship are taught through the medium of an orchestral ensemble and chamber music. The orchestral performance experiences include both string orchestra and symphonic repertoire. Required performances are at TAS and in community settings. Master musicians from the Taipei community join the orchestra to enhance and expand the symphonic repertoire experience and provide additional chamber music coaching. Entry to this orchestra class is by audition only with consideration of instrumentation needs. Students in Honors Premier Strings must have completed a year of Premier Strings as a prerequisite and these students have additional performance requirements.

BEGINNING BAND (UMUS09)

Duration: 1 semester, offered in Semester 1 only

Credit: 0.5

Grade: 9-12

Homework: Light

This class is an entry level course for students who wish to learn how to play a band instrument (or bass guitar). No experience is required. The level of instruction is accelerated to enable students to perform with the Symphonic Band after one semester. School

instruments (but not bass guitars) can be loaned to beginners. Students are encouraged to select instruments that are usually under-represented in band programs, such as French Horn, double reeds, and low brass.

SYMPHONIC BAND (UMUS10) HONORS SYMPHONIC BAND (UMUS11)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 9-12 (10-12 for Honors)

Homework: Light (Moderate for Honors)

This intermediate level upper school band meets every other day. The course provides instruction in performing music through various repertoire of level 3 – 4 (medium to medium-advanced difficulty) performance literature, technical skill exercises, sight-reading, music theory, and an understanding of musical composition through listening, original composing, and analysis. In addition to the full ensemble experience, students are offered the opportunity to play in small chamber music groups and solos. Performances are given at TAS and are a graded requirement for this course. Placement into this class is determined after an interview/ audition with the directors, and consideration of instrumentation needs. Students in Honors Symphonic Band must have completed a year of Symphonic Band as a prerequisite and are required to complete additional music assignments and tasks.

WIND ENSEMBLE (UMUS12) HONORS WIND ENSEMBLE (UMUS13)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 9-12 (10-12 for Honors)

Homework: Moderate

This class is an auditioned ensemble of 45-50 players. The course provides instruction in performing music through a varied

repertoire of level 3.5 – 5 (medium-advanced to advanced difficulty) performance literature, technical skill exercises, sight-reading, music theory, and an understanding of musical composition through listening, original composing, and analysis. In addition to the full ensemble experience, opportunities to perform with the orchestra or in small chamber groups are made available. In this class students are given the opportunity to work with master musicians from the Taipei community in master class teaching settings and in Chamber Music small ensemble preparations, furthering students’ instrumental technical foundations and musicianship. Required performances are given at TAS and throughout the Taipei area. Placement is determined after an interview/audition with the directors, and consideration of instrumentation needs. Students in Honors Wind Ensemble must have completed a year of Wind Ensemble as a prerequisite and are required to complete additional music assignments and tasks.

* Students who play flute, clarinet, alto saxophone, trumpet, or trombone are required to provide their own instrument.

JAZZ ENSEMBLE (UMUS14) HONORS JAZZ ENSEMBLE (UMUS15)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 9-12 (10-12 for Honors)

Homework: Moderate

This class is an auditioned group that studies and performs music in the swing, Latin, jazz-rock, and ballad styles. The course includes instruction on improvisation, jazz theory, history, listening, and performance in both “big-band” and smaller combo settings. Prior knowledge of fundamental musical concepts (scales, breathing, posture, tone quality, tuning, etc.) is required. Required performances include venues at TAS as well as the local community. Placement into the group is determined after an interview/audition with the directors, and consideration of instrumentation needs. Students in Honors Jazz Ensemble must have completed a year of Jazz Ensemble as a prerequisite and may be required to complete additional music assignments and tasks.

PERFORMING ARTS

AP MUSIC THEORY (UMUS16)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 10-12

Homework: Moderate

This course emphasizes music theory beyond the fundamentals through a detailed study of notation, rhythm, tonality, melody, harmony, and form. Aural skills, contextual listening skills, and composition techniques will be refined through this course. Students wishing to take this course should have a comprehensive understanding of basic theory, plus the ability to hear, read, and notate music. The AP Music Theory examination will be taken at the end of the year. Consultation with the course teacher or an ensemble music director is required prior to enrolment.

PIANO PERFORMANCE (UMUS05A) HONORS PIANO PERFORMANCE (UMUS05B)

Duration: 1 semester, offered in Semester 1 only

Credit: 0.5

Grade: 9-12 (10-12 for Honors)

Homework: Moderate

This one semester course explores the avenues available to pianists who wish to perform with other musicians. Collaboration and accompanying skills are the main focus of the class. Students will have the opportunity to accompany singers, instrumentalists and choirs. Basic theory, improvisation, pedagogical and business skills of private and group instruction will also be addressed. Students are given the opportunity to work with master musicians from the Taipei community in master class settings, furthering student’s technical foundations and musicianship. This class is for intermediate to advanced pianists and requires approval from the instructor. Students in Honors Piano Performance must have completed a semester of Piano Performance as a prerequisite along with instructor approval and will be required to complete additional assignments and tasks.

MUSIC PRODUCTION & TECHNOLOGY (UMUS20)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 9-12

Homework: Light

The Music Production & Technology course is designed for students who are interested in using technology together with music for the purposes of creating and engineering music. The course is intended for students with varied music experience levels as well as non-musicians who are interested in gaining skills that will help them to integrate music into other disciplines. Lessons are designed to provide hands-on study of recording studio techniques and music creation. Students will create original work while developing listening and technical skills for audio production. Students will focus on many aspects of contemporary music production and creation that will assist them as they prepare for experiences that are utilized by 21st century professionals: film scoring, commercial advertising, media production, acoustic engineering, TV/Radio production, e-media/ web production, electronic systems design, music composing and engineering. Core strands of music production and technology will be covered by all students: recording/sound design; mixing; film scoring; composition/arranging; production. Topics include but are not limited to: mastering, mixing, microphones, listening, physics of sound, sound effects, recording, sound editing, MIDI, composing, arranging and film scoring. Recommendation by the course teacher is required prior to enrolment.

HONORS MUSIC PRODUCTION & TECHNOLOGY 1 (UMUS21)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 10-12

Prerequisite: Music Production & Technology

Homework: Moderate

The Honors Music Production & Technology 1 course is designed for students who are interested in furthering their potential to create and engineer music. The course is intended for students with prior experience in music production and technology and who are interested in pursuing more advanced challenges in creating their own studio work. Lessons are designed to provide continued hands-on study of recording studio techniques and

music creation. Students will create original work while further refining their listening and technical skills for audio production. Students will focus on many aspects of contemporary music production and creation that will assist them as they prepare for experiences that are utilized by 21st century professionals: film scoring, commercial advertising, media production, acoustic engineering, TV/Radio production, e-media/web production, electronic systems design, music composing and engineering. While core strands of music production and technology will be covered by all students, individuals may also choose to specialize in one or more of the music tech strands: recording/sound design; mixing; film scoring; composition/arranging; production. Topics include but are not limited to: mastering, mixing, microphones, listening, physics of sound, sound effects, recording, sound editing, MIDI, composing, arranging and film scoring. Recommendation by the course teacher is required prior to enrolment.

HONORS MUSIC PRODUCTION & TECHNOLOGY 2 (UMUS211)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 11-12

Prerequisite: Honors Music Production & Technology 1

Homework: Moderate

The Honors Music Production & Technology 2 course is designed for students who are interested in furthering their potential to create and engineer music. The course is intended for students who have completed the Honors Music Production & Technology 1 course and who are interested in continued advancement creating and producing music. Lessons are designed to provide

hands-on study of more complex recording studio techniques and music creation. Students will create original work while further refining their listening and technical skills for audio production and will be required to create a personal portfolio. Students will focus on many aspects of contemporary music production and creation that will assist them as they prepare for experiences that are utilized by 21st century professionals: film scoring, commercial advertising, media production, acoustic engineering, TV/Radio production, e-media/web production, electronic systems design, music composing and engineering. Students from this course will have prior experience with the core strands of music production and technology and will likely elect to specialize in one or more of the music tech strands: recording/sound design; mixing; film scoring; composition/arranging; production. Topics include but are not limited to: mastering, mixing, microphones, listening, physics of sound, sound effects, recording, sound editing, MIDI, composing, arranging and film scoring. Recommendation by the course teacher is required prior to enrolment.

HONORS MUSIC PRODUCTION & TECHNOLOGY 3 (UMUS212)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 12

Prerequisite: Honors Music Production & Technology 2

Homework: Moderate

The Honors Music Production & Technology 3 course is designed for students who are interested in furthering their potential to create and engineer music. The course is intended for students who have completed the Honors Music Production & Technology 2

course and who are interested in continued advancement creating and producing music. Lessons are designed to provide hands-on study of more complex recording studio techniques and music creation. Students will create original work while further refining their listening and technical skills for audio production and will be required to create a personal portfolio. Additionally, students from this course will elect a large scale independent project that will utilize the advanced skills they have developed through their prior courses and experience. Students will focus on many aspects of contemporary music production and creation that will assist them as they prepare for experiences that are utilized by 21st century professionals: film scoring, commercial advertising, media production, acoustic engineering, TV/Radio production, e-media/web production, electronic systems design, music composing and engineering. Students from this course will have prior experience with the core strands of music production and technology and will likely elect to specialize in one or more of the music tech strands: recording/sound design; mixing; film scoring; composition/arranging; production. Topics include but are not limited to: mastering, mixing, microphones, listening, physics of sound, sound effects, recording, sound editing, MIDI, composing, arranging and film scoring. Recommendation by the course teacher is required prior to enrolment.

FLUTE CHAMBER ENSEMBLE (UMUS23) HONORS FLUTE CHAMBER ENSEMBLE (UMUS23H)

Duration: 1 semester or 1 year

Credit: 0.5-1

Grade: 9-12 (10-12 for Honors)

Homework: Moderate

Flute Chamber Ensemble is a performance-oriented class intended for flute players with intermediate to advanced technical skills. The class will explore the rich literature of music which has been

Music is important for the following reasons: it is abstract, it doesn’t mean anything outside itself. Music does not describe. Music does not narrate. Music does not tell stories. Music evokes. Music suggests, music implies, and music opens up the mind of a child in an extraordinary way. This abstraction about music is what offers a child the chance to move into a really special way of thinking.”

Richard Gill

composed over several centuries for flute duets, trios, quartets, and larger ensembles. Students in this class will have the opportunity to improve their musicianship and technical skills using the complete instrumentation of a flute choir (piccolo, flute, alto and bass flute). Repertoire will be performed from the Renaissance, Baroque, Classical and Contemporary Eras, with attention to the techniques and styles appropriate for each musical period. Students will also have the opportunity to creatively explore composition for flute ensembles and study, analyze and listen to representative works of the genre. The class will perform in chamber music settings and concerts throughout the year. Participation in the class will be based on audition or teacher recommendation. Students may elect to enroll in one or both semesters of this course. Students in Honors Flute Chamber Ensemble must have completed a year of Flute Chamber Ensemble as a prerequisite and may be required to complete additional music assignments and tasks.

IBSL MUSIC YEAR 1 (UMUS171) IBHL MUSIC YEAR 1 (UMUS181)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 11 (SL or HL)

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation

Homework: Moderate

Through this course, students will be empowered to recognize how technical training and creative competencies combine to inform practical work and contribute to the formation of wellrounded modern musicians. Students will embody three roles:

the researcher, the creator, and the performer. In these roles, they inquire, create, perform and reflect on the course’s three musical processes: exploring music in context, experimenting with music, and presenting music. Four musical areas will be explored through personal, local and global contexts: music for sociocultural and political expression, music for listening and performance, music for dramatic impact, movement and entertainment, and music technology in the electronic and digital age. Assessment will consist of written analysis, musical composition and/or improvisation, and solo and/or ensemble performing. In Year 2, HL students will take on an additional project as a contemporary music maker. IB external assessment will take place in the spring of Year 2 for students completing both years of the program.

IBSL MUSIC YEAR 2 (UMUS172)

IBHL MUSIC YEAR 2 (UMUS182)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 12 (SL or HL)

Prerequisite: Previous enrollment in UMUS171 or USMUS181

Homework: Moderate

In this course, students will continue to embody three musical roles: the researcher, the creator, and the performer. Year two will have a more practical focus as students complete the assessment components required by IB. Assessment will consist of written analysis, musical composition and/or improvisation, and solo and/ or ensemble performing. HL students will take on an additional project as a contemporary music maker. IB external assessment will take place in the spring of 2024 for students completing both years of the program.

DANCE

DANCE 1 (UART011)

Duration: 1 semester or 1 year

Credit: 0.5 or 1

Grade: 9-12

Homework: Light

No previous dance experience is required though a desire to explore a variety of dance forms is necessary. In this course, students will develop technical skills from various dance styles such as jazz, hip hop, ballet, and theatre dance, with a focus on contemporary dance. Students will learn to manipulate space, time and energy in making dances. An emphasis will be placed on improving individual levels of fitness and physical skills. For students interested in continuing their dance studies, this course is strongly recommended prior to studying IB Dance.

DANCE 2 (UART012)

Duration: 1 semester or 1 year

Credit: 0.5 or 1

Grade: 9-12

Homework: Moderate

Prerequisite: Middle School dance, previous dance training and/ or at least one semester of Dance 1

This course is for dancers who have taken at least one semester of Upper School Dance, one year of Middle School Dance, and/or recent dance training. The focus of this course is on developing intermediate to advanced-intermediate technical and performance skills. The emphasis will be on contemporary technique, though a variety of dance genres will be studied throughout the course. Students will also develop basic choreographic skills. Students will be expected to choreograph and perform their work in an informal setting. This course is strongly recommended for students wishing to pursue Honors Dance or IB Dance.

*Photos courtesy of Dustin Rhoades

DANCE FLOW CHART

Honors

Dance 3

Gr. 10 - 12

Honors

Dance 4

Gr. 11 - 12

HONORS DANCE 3 (UART0131H)

Duration:1 year

Credit:1

Grade: 10-12

Prerequisite: Dance 1 or Dance 2 with teacher recommendation, teacher permission for dancers with previous training

Homework: Moderate

In this course, students will study three components of dance: Performance, Composition and Analysis, and World Dance Studies. Students will develop a high level of proficiency in technical and performance skills. They will also work through various creative processes to choreograph their own dances. World Dance Studies will require students to experience and explore dance from multiple cultures. Some work outside class time will be required for rehearsals and research. Assessment will consist of performance and composition in the dance style(s) of the student’s choice.

Dance 1

Gr. 11

Dance 2

Gr. 12

HONORS DANCE 4 (UART013H)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 11-12

Prerequisite: Honors Dance 3, IBSL/HL dance 1, or teacher permission for dancers with previous training

Homework: Moderate to Heavy

This course is for dancers who have taken at least two years of upper school dance and/or two or more years of recent dance training. In this course, students will continue their study in Performance, Composition and Analysis, and World Dance Studies. The practical emphasis will be on performance and composition. Some work outside class time will be required for composition, rehearsals, and research. Major assessments will consist of performance exams, two compositions, and written research.

Dance 1

Gr. 9-12

Dance 2

Gr. 9-12

IBSL & IBHL

IBSL & IBHL

Dance first. Think later. It’s the natural order.”

IBSL DANCE YEAR 2 (UART04)

IBHL DANCE YEAR 2 (UART05)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 12

Prerequisite: IBSL/IBHL Dance Year 1

Homework: Moderate to Heavy

In this course, students will continue their study in the three components of dance: Performance, Composition and Analysis, and World Dance Studies. The practical emphasis in year two will be on composition and performance. Students will complete the research and writing required in World Dance Studies. Some work outside class time will be required for composition, rehearsals and research. Work in all three components will be submitted to IB for examination in the spring of 2025.

IBSL DANCE YEAR 1 (UART02)

IBHL DANCE YEAR 1 (UART03)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 11 (SL or HL)

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation; previous dance experience is not required, but at least one semester of dance is strongly recommended

Homework: Moderate

In this course, students will study three components of dance: Performance, Composition and Analysis, and World Dance Studies. Students will develop a high level of proficiency in technical and performance skills. They will also work through various creative processes to choreograph their own dances. World Dance Studies will require students to experience and explore dance from multiple cultures. Some work outside class time will be required for rehearsals and research. Assessment will consist of performance work in the dance style of the student’s choice. IB external assessment (Composition and Analysis, World Dance Studies) will take place in the Spring of 2026 for students completing both years of the program.

Samuel Beckett

THEATRE

THEATRICAL DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY (UART071)

Duration: 1 semester, offered in Semester 1 only

Credit: 0.5

Grade: 9-12

Prerequisite: None

Homework: Light

This introductory course explores the challenges of mounting a theatrical production by providing a glimpse into each of the major facets of technical production – scenic design, lighting design, costume design, sound design, stage management, and basic production materials and techniques. In addition to exploring the design theories and their history, students have the opportunity to work on productions staged during the course of the semester. The main goal is to generate enthusiasm for and an understanding of the varied crafts which constitute theatrical design and production.

ADVANCED TECHNICAL THEATRE (UART08)

Duration: 1 semester, offered in Semester 2 only

Credit: 0.5

Grade: 9-12

Prerequisite: Theatrical Design & Technology, or permission of instructor

Homework: Light

This course extends the knowledge gained in Stagecraft and provides students with the skills, techniques, and experiences necessary to work collaboratively behind the scenes in the performing arts. With a combination of theory in the specialized technology of theatre and practical hands-on collaboration with peers, advanced technical theatre engages students to think critically about production methods and techniques and trains them to think creatively about theatre as an art form which is easily greater than the sum of its component parts.

Acting is simply my way of investigating human nature and having fun at the same time.”

Meryl Streep

STAGECRAFT PRODUCTION (UART081)

Duration: 1 semester, offered in both semesters

Credit: 0.5 or 1

Grade: 10-12

Prerequisite: Permission of instructor

Homework: Moderate

This class is restricted to students with previous commitment and involvement in theatrical production who wish to focus in depth on putting the training and theory of stagecraft into actionable practice with the major productions in the TAS theatre venues. The course meets after school and requires the same number of class hours as any normally scheduled class; it may be taken more than once. Students are expected to fulfill the leadership roles of lighting master electrician, stage manager, costume manager, or other production team role approved by the instructor.

HONORS STAGECRAFT PRODUCTION (UART082)

Duration: 1 semester, offered in both semesters

Credit: 0.5 or 1

Grade: 11-12

Prerequisite: Stagecraft Production

Homework: Moderate

This course is restricted to highly motivated students with advanced experience in practical stagecraft production. Students complete production assignments after school working on all the theatre and dance productions over the course of the semester, committing the same number of class hours as any normally scheduled class. Students also create a portfolio showcasing their depth of knowledge in a given facet of stagecraft - stage management, lighting design, costume design, or other technical theatre area of focus. Students will face real world design challenges and the increasingly complex electronic and mechanical components of the entertainment industry in a unique supportive environment as part of a creative team. At the completion of the course, students will be prepared to pass the United States Institute of Theatre Technology’s essential skills competency exam.

*Photos courtesy of Dustin Rhoades

Theatre Arts

Gr. 9 - 12

THEATRE FLOW CHART

Theatrical Design And Technology

Gr. 9 - 12

Honors Theatre 1

Gr. 9 - 12 /

IB Theatre 1

Gr. 11

Honors Theatre 2

Gr. 9 - 12 /

IB Theatre 2

Gr. 12

THEATRE ARTS (UART06)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 9-12

Prerequisite: None

Homework: Light

Units of Study Include:

• Orientation/Trust/Ritual

• Movement/Ensemble

• Improvisation

• Voice/Diction and Storytelling

• Script Analysis/Script Creation

• Production Theatre

This class satisfies either the performing arts requirement or the public speaking requirement but not both.

This course gives students an introduction to theatre and provides frequent opportunities for speaking in front of others. Students will be working in a variety of dynamic orientations designed to bolster their confidence, creative problem solving, imagination and confidence. There will be a wide array of projects tackled, including (but not limited to) short memorized monologues and scene work, acting for the camera, improvisation, devised work and full play creation.

Advanced Technical Theatre

Gr. 9 - 12

Stagecraft Production

Gr. 10 - 12

Honors Stagecraft Production

Gr. 11 - 12

HONORS THEATRE 1 (UART13)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 9-12

Prerequisite: Theatre Arts or Teacher Permission

Homework: Light

This course is intended for students wishing to continue and deepen their study of theatre. The course will lead students through a variety of performance theories and perspectives in order to apply them to performance. Students will engage in detailed studio driven performance pieces designed to put them in front of multiple audiences and experiment with a wide array of theatrical styles and content. A variety of plays and texts will be utilized, analyzed and performed.

In addition, film acting will be a focus in order to prepare students for that side of the industry. Students will also maintain a journal, write critically and informatively, and create original text.

Units of study include:

• Historical Theatre Conventions and their Application (Exploring Artistic, Cultural and Theoretical Context)

• Performance skills (Naturalism, Abstract, Movement Traditions, Advanced Film Acting)

• Advanced Scene and Monologue Work • Musical Theatre and The Singer as Storyteller

• Script Analysis

• Directing and Techniques for Staging and Audience Impact

Possible Texts: True West, Doubt, A Doll's House, Hedda Gabler, The Humans, The Crucible, Uta Hagen, Stella Adler

HONORS THEATRE 2 (UART14)

For students who are not taking IB.

Grade: 10-12

Prerequisite: Honors Theatre 1

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Homework: Light

This course further deepens the student's mastery and understanding of acting and prepares them for collegiate programs as well as professional level work. Students will engage in detailed studio driven performance pieces designed to put them in front of multiple audiences and experiment with a wide array of theatrical styles and content. In addition, original/devised work will be a feature of the course, putting students in an engaging and exciting collaborative environment. Focus will be placed on preparing students for the business side of the acting world as well, with students leaving the course with headshots, a reel and portfolio to assist them in their future acting endeavors. The class will culminate with the Honors 2 Theatrical Showcase; a special evening opportunity to present selected works for a distinguished audience.

IBSL THEATRE YEAR 1 (UART09)

IBHL THEATRE YEAR 1 (UART11)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 11-12

Prerequisite: Theatre Arts or permission of instructor (No prerequiste for IB students)

Homework: Moderate

As a 2-year course IB Theatre satisfies both the performing arts AND public speaking requirements.

The IB (International Baccalaureate) Diploma Programme theatre course is a multifaceted theatre-making course of study. It gives students the opportunity to make theatre as creators, designers, directors and performers. It emphasizes the importance of working both individually and collaboratively as part of an ensemble. It offers the opportunity to engage actively in the creative process, transforming ideas into action as inquisitive and productive artists. This course allows students to explore Theatre as performers, theorists, designers, collaborators and historians. Involvement in this live art form demands discipline, creativity, risk-taking, and an ability to collaborate. Over the course of the 2-year program students will engage in a variety of tasks outlined by the IB that will require a robust mix of performance, analysis and original creation. Substantial writing components are a feature of this course.

IBSL THEATRE YEAR 2 (UART10)

IBHL THEATRE YEAR 2 (UART12)

Grade: 12

Prerequisite: IB Theatre 1

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Homework: Moderate

As a 2-year course IB Theatre satisfies both the performing arts AND public speaking requirements.

The IB (International Baccalaureate) Diploma Programme theatre course is a multifaceted theatre-making course of study. It gives students the opportunity to make theatre as creators, designers, directors and performers. It emphasizes the importance of working both individually and collaboratively as part of an ensemble. It

offers the opportunity to engage actively in the creative process, transforming ideas into action as inquisitive and productive artists. This course allows students to explore Theatre as performers, theorists, designers, collaborators and historians. Involvement in this live art form demands discipline, creativity, risk-taking, and an ability to collaborate. Over the course of the 2-year program students will engage in a variety of tasks outlined by the IB that will require a robust mix of performance, analysis and original creation. Substantial writing components are a feature of this course.

PUBLIC SPEAKING, DEBATE, and PERFORMANCE (UPSF012)

Duration: 1 year (2, 1-semester blocks)

Credit: 1

Grades: 9-12

*Satisfies Public Speaking requirement

Homework: Light to Moderate

Note: Class is taught in semester sections. One semester will be taught by the Social Sciences teachers and one semester via the Theatre teachers.

The ability to express, defend, and compare ideas in a confident and fact-based way is critical regardless of one’s profession or field of study. In this year-long course, students will receive formal training in effective public speaking and argumentation, as well as examine the physiological connections between thought, breathing, the physical body, and the performative aspects of speech. By experimenting with a variety of speech types and techniques, students will be able to create effective speeches with solid openings, main points, transitions and conclusions whilst understanding the importance of audience analysis. Students will also be introduced to the structure of arguments and taught how to effectively construct, refute, and compare between them. Using NSDA Debate events as a vehicle, students will get extensive experience in a variety of formats including public forum and world schools debate. Through supportive critiques, observation of peers, rehearsal, examination of text, research, refutation, and a general understanding of presence in a room, students will be able to speak and debate confidently, fluently and prolifically in no time.

* Photo taken before COVID-19 mask measures introduced on campus.

SEMESTER COURSES

DRAWING (UART71)

Duration: 1 semester, offered in Semester 1 and/or 2

Credit: 0.5

Grade: 9-12

Prerequisite: None

Homework: Light

In this course, students work with a wide range of drawing materials – both traditional and digital – while investigating the nature of drawing itself through mark-making. Students will learn to see like an artist through a variety of perspectives focused on developing the powers of observation. They will use the Elements of Art and apply the Principles of Design when creating compositions that demonstrate an understanding of foreground, middle ground and background. As they work students will be encouraged to feature unique points of view and employ a variety of camera angles. Students will utilize a sketchbook to draft ideas and document compositional solutions. They will use a variety of materials, methods, tools and techniques as they learn to create sophisticated imagery. At the end of the semester, students will have images capable of going into a college portfolio in terms of composition, craftsmanship and creativity. This course will prepare those students who are interested in taking higher level classes like AP Studio Art or IB Art.

PAINTING (UART72)

Duration: 1 semester, offered in Semester 1 and/or 2

Credit: 0.5

Grade: 9-12

Prerequisite: None

Homework: Light

In this course, students work with a wide range of painting materials – both traditional and digital – to explore and experience a variety of painting techniques, media, and historical approaches

to art. Students interpret and express the painter’s world in mediums including acrylic and oil paint, gauche, watercolor, and ink, as well as a variety of experimental media. They will also learn to paint digitally on applications such as Procreate on the iPad. Students will develop their sensitivity to color and learn and become proficient in employing color theory in their works. The works created during the course will utilize subjects from observation and imagination, applying design and composition principles. At the end of the semester, students will have at least two images capable of going into a college portfolio in terms of composition, craftsmanship, and creativity. This course will prepare those students who are interested in taking higher level classes like AP Studio Art or IB Art.

HONORS PAINTING (UART72H)

Duration: 1 semester, offered in Semester 1 and/or 2

Credit: 0.5

Grade: 10-12

Prerequisite: Painting + Drawing

Homework: Moderate

Honors painting is a space for inquiry-based learning where students focus on research, themes, and specific mediums in order to experience depth with painting techniques. In this course we cover techniques of painting but also have space for students to develop their own artist voice and social identity through the work that they independently create. With this course centered around depth, students will be able to dive deeper into analyzing the artists they are inspired by – whether it be the artist’s style or identity. Students are expected to create a series of paintings centered around a written statement. This statement will be guided by research of a chosen artist model and or art movement. Students also have the option of mastering one painting medium in this series of works. The course includes in depth color theory, light and shadow, emphasis on the human figure, concept art, social commentary, mixed media, and illustrative posters/ typography. This course will prepare those students who are interested in taking higher level classes like AP Studio Art or IB Art.

VISUAL ARTS FLOW CHART

Semester

Courses

open to all 9-12

No prerequisites

Semester

Honors Courses

*Honors level available, semester-based, runs concurrently.

Prerequisite: 2 semesters of art.

Year-Long

Courses

Higher Level

Prerequsite: 3 semesters of art

Students interested in 3D Students interested in 2D

Fashion & Costume Design

Ceramics Hand Building: Coil, Slab & Sculpt

Ceramics 3D Printing & Digital Modeling

Students interested in a variety of media

Art & Literature

Graphic Design

Product Design

Painting

Fashion Illustration

Drawing

Ceramics Wheel

Throwing: Objects of Purpose

Virtual Reality

Honors 3D Modeling & Character Design

Honors Architecture

Honors Virtual Reality

Honors Fashion & Costume Design

Film Production 1,

Journalism: Yearbook 1, 2,

Honors Advanced Design

It is only by drawing often, drawing everything, drawing incessantly, that one fine day you discover, to your surprise, that you have rendered something in its true character.”

Portfolio Bootcamp

Digital Photography

Analog Photography Architecture

Honors Digital Photography Honors Painting

Film Studies

AP Drawing

I found I could say things with color and shapes that I couldn’t say any other way – things I had no words for.”

3D Modeling & Character Design

AP 2D Art & Design

AP 3D Art & Design

IB Visual Arts (2 yrs)

IB Film Studies (2 yrs)

AP Art History

Camille Pissarro

Georgia O’Keeffe

GRAPHIC DESIGN (UART73)

Duration: 1 semester, offered in Semester 1 and/or 2

Credit: 0.5

Grade: 9-12

Prerequisite: None

Homework: Light

Students will use both traditional and digital tools and techniques to form images that communicate. They will use the computer as an artistic tool to discover how text and visual elements are created, manipulated, and used to communicate effectively. Using various design apps and the Adobe Creative Suite, creativity, concept development, and craftsmanship are stressed in each assignment. Students learn about contemporary artistic trends in the design world while developing their own complex design solutions based on personal ideas and perspectives. They will explore design thinking processes, investigate typographic experimentation, and explore the impact of color and scale. Students will use their knowledge of the design principles to compose and visually organize their graphic imagery. Students are asked to consider what design is and how it can be used to create, engage, and even drive social change.

PRODUCT DESIGN (UART74)

Duration: 1 semester, offered in Semester 1 and/or 2

Credit: 0.5

Grade: 9-12

Prerequisite: None

Homework: Light

This course introduces the fundamentals of product design and design thinking. It will give students an overview of many practical and theoretical skills used in a design project, including identifying client/customer needs based on design briefs, ideation techniques, creative problem-solving, concept generation, and documentation. The course focuses on project-based learning and hands-on experimentation predominantly by creating product boards and model-making. Students will become familiar with the outcome of fabrication from the design software, as well as using the laser and vinyl cutters, CNC cutters, 3D printers, and other equipment available in the art department.

ART & LITERATURE (UART75)

Duration: 1 semester, offered in Semester 1 and/or 2

Credit: 0.5

Grades: 9-12

Prerequisite: None

Homework: Light

The course is designed for students to explore in greater depth the collaborative potential for visual art and literature, providing them the platform to appreciate the interconnectedness of the world of words and the world of images. They will learn and experiment with a variety of tools, mediums, and techniques such as drawing, painting, and mixed media as we read and discuss poetry and short stories. The course will explore symbolism, imagery and characterization, and students will learn to use visual art as a tool to communicate their interpretation of these authorial choices. Students will also examine works of art and interpret the story behind these artworks through individual and collaborative creative writing. Literary texts that we will explore for this course will include poetry, plays, social commentaries, memoirs and more. Students are assigned readings for homework and are expected to record their observations and ideas in their sketchbook so that they are prepared to come into class to share and discuss. Most assignments are completed in class, though they might need to work on their art and/or creative writing pieces beyond regular class time. At the end of the course, students will develop a body of work and produce a final portfolio along with written reflections of their creative choices. This course is dual-listed under both the English and Visual Art departments and fulfills 0.5 of the Visual Art credit but does not fulfill the English Core credit.

PORTFOLIO BOOTCAMP (UART77)

Duration: 1 semester, offered in Semester 1 and/or 2

Credit: 0.5

Grade: 11-12

Prerequisite: None

Homework: Light

This course is designed to prepare the portfolios for admission to college art programs. The course is catered for individuals to address school specific portfolio requirements and provide guidance for submitting to competitions such as Young Arts. Students will complete a range of projects to produce high-level additions to their portfolios. They will work both from observation

and imagination and be provided with the necessary tools and resources to take on assignments that cater to what college art programs are looking for in applicants. They will be guided through the process of portfolio selection, documentation, artist statements and writing supporting descriptions to their artwork.

CERAMICS 3D PRINTING & DIGITAL MODELING (UART78)

Duration: 1 semester, offered in Semester 2 only

Credit: 0.5

Grade: 9-12

Prerequisite: None

Homework: Light

Ceramics 3D Printing and Digital Modeling gives students the basic skills necessary to digitally model and print ceramic forms using 3D printers especially designed for printing clay like the Potter Bot and Lutum printers. Students will use Rhino 3D modeling software and the clay printer to create functional, architectural, and sculptural works: exploring vessels, furniture forms, and architectural facades. In addition, students will learn how to operate the clay 3D printer independently. Students may add finishing touches to their forms by hand before completing the traditional ceramic process by glazing and firing their pieces in a kiln. Students are encouraged to bring their own research and interests into the coursework, and to develop a personal approach and artistic direction which may complement the work in AP and IB Art portfolios. The course is open to students of all knowledge and experience levels.

CERAMICS HAND-BUILDING: COIL, SLAB, AND SCULPT (UART79)

Duration: 1 semester, offered in Semester 1 only

Credit: 0.5

Grade: 9-12

Prerequisite: None

Homework: Light

Hand-building will give students the skills necessary to produce, glaze, and fire a variety of hand-built ceramic forms. Commonly used ceramic construction and surfacing techniques will be covered, including but not limited to a variety of slab construction methods, coil-building, clay extrusion, and solid/hollowing

sculpting methods. Through presentations, demonstrations, and hands on practice, students will gain a greater awareness of how these different forming methodologies have enabled ceramic artists to create meaningful works of art for centuries. The curriculum allows students to work independently and collaboratively. Students will have the opportunity to explore both functional and sculptural applications of the ceramic material in this course. Ceramic surface and appropriate finishing techniques will be covered. Students are encouraged to bring their own research and interests into the coursework. Students will be encouraged to create individual and original ideas in the ceramic media, and to develop a personal approach and artistic direction which may complement the work in AP and IB Art portfolios. Prior experience in ceramics is not required to enroll in the course.

CERAMICS WHEEL THROWING: OBJECTS OF PURPOSE (UART80)

Duration: 1 semester, offered in Semester 2 only

Credit: 0.5

Grade: 9-12

Prerequisite: None

Homework: Light

Wheel Throwing gives students the basic skills necessary to produce, glaze, and fire a variety of forms on the potter’s wheel. Students will be introduced via demonstrations and presentations to throwing, trimming, and finishing. Methods of altering and attaching wheel thrown components, glazing, and finishing techniques will also be explored. Students will use these options to create works for their everyday lives centered around their habits, rituals, living or workspace. Through this coursework we will also examine the connections between function, form, composition, and meaning to create personal works related to their own point of view and how they navigate the world. Concerns of function and use as well as opportunities to research contemporary and historical traditions will be incorporated into the coursework. A series of projects offers the chance to make both functional vessels and sculptural forms. Students will be encouraged to create individual and original ideas in the ceramic media, and to develop a personal approach and artistic direction which may complement the work in AP and IB Art portfolios. The course is open to students of all knowledge and experience levels. Class size is limited to 15.

VIRTUAL REALITY (UART81)

Duration: 1 semester, offered in Semester 1 and/or 2

Credit: 0.5

Grades: 9-12

Prerequisite: None

Homework: Light

This course will teach students about the concepts of video game development and virtual reality production. Projects will include how to use the tools in Unreal Engine and Maya for world building and level design. There will be multiple projects throughout the entire course so students can understand how to utilize several digital software to deliver virtual worlds with real-time technology from Unreal Engine. Other game development tools such as Autodesk Maya, Gaea, Adobe Substance Painter and Photoshop will also be utilized to help create 3D content such as a character, vehicle, or landscape and urban environment. We will look at how industry professionals create their project structures, work flows, environment creation for virtual reality content. Virtual Reality headset equipment includes the Oculus Quest and HTC Vive for students to see visualizations of landscapes, architecture, and interior designs. By the end of the semester, students should understand the process from level design, modeling, texturing, shading, and real time lighting for 3D assets.

HONORS VIRTUAL REALITY (UART81H)

Duration: 1 semester, offered in Semester 1 and/or 2

Credit: 0.5

Grades: 10-12

Prerequisite: 3D Modeling & Character Design + Virtual Reality

Homework: Moderate

Having mastered the interface of the landscape generator Gaea, Unreal Engine, and Maya, students are now designing and creating unique personalized projects of their own in Honors Virtual Reality. Within these projects, the mood, style and look and feel is specific to the student’s interest. Students will have the freedom to create their own virtual reality projects and use the knowledge of 3D modeling and world building to create new experiences, and inquiry-based learning. In Gaea, students will go in depth about procedural landscape creations, and how to blend different types of natural landscapes. In Unreal Engine, we will go in depth for how to create level designs for students interested in

video game design. In Maya, students have the option to create and design their own interior design or architecture to be viewed in a virtual reality headset. The goal is to use the strengths of Virtual Reality technology to construct simple immersive environments and understand how humans react to this medium. Students will be given the opportunity to interact directly with immersive virtual reality headsets to create a virtual environment and gain first hand experience developing a final project. Some examples of final projects could be in different genres such as a landscape for a science fiction game or create an obstacle course for a level design.

3D MODELING & CHARACTER DESIGN (UART82)

Duration: 1 semester, offered in Semester 1 and/or 2

Credit: 0.5

Grades: 9-12

Prerequisite: None

Homework: Light

This course covers the basic concepts of 3D modeling where students will build a solid foundation of the basic tools of Autodesk Maya and Mudbox. Modeling, texturing, lighting, and rendering are introduced, and students will learn how computer graphics can be created for computer animation films, video games, commercials, and 3D printing. This is a project-oriented course where students are exposed to the tools used by computer graphic artists working in the computer animation, video game, visual effects, and commercial industry. They will gain the basic knowledge of production practices and workflow. Semester projects will include how to design a 3D organic creature for 3D printing, design a hard surface robot, sculp a digital character to become a metahuman, and an introduction to 3D animation.

It is not enough to know your craft, you have to have feeling. Science is all very well, but for us imagination is worth far more.”

Edouard Manet

HONORS 3D MODELING & CHARACTER DESIGN (UART82H)

Duration: 1 semester, offered in Semester 1 and/or 2

Credit: 0.5

Grades: 10-12

Prerequisite: 3D Modeling & Character Design + one additional level one visual art semester course

Homework: Moderate

In this course, students will continue to investigate the tools they learned from the 3D modeling & character design course and discover the advanced features from their preferred software. Projects include creating digital worlds such as urban or landscape environments or organic characters and creatures in 3D. Students will explore the more advanced features of Maya and game engines for real time rendering and world building. There will be more emphasis on polishing finished renders for photorealism along with good composition and learning about camera angles to render animation. Students are expected to understand the entire process from concept design, modeling, texturing, UV mapping, shading, lighting, rendering and then color correct in Adobe Photoshop. Advanced digital sculpting software such as Zbrush and Substance painter will be explored to help improve project workflow and create advanced models and materials. There will also be the option to 3D print with the Form 3 for industrialquality SLA for finished 3D models. Final projects include creating animation, high quality commercial prints, or designing virtual reality environments.

FASHION ILLUSTRATION (UART83)

Duration: 1 semester, offered in Semester 1 and/or 2

Credit: 0.5

Grade: 9-12

Prerequisite: None

Homework: Light

In this course, students will tap into their creativity through design research, textile studies and character illustrations. Both costume and fashion act through the human body, with the intention of influencing behavior and thought, as well as communicating a sense of identity or character. Students will sketch the human body, study perspectives of anatomy and draw fashion garments. We will work with a range of mediums from markers, watercolors, pastels, digital and mixed media. Students will explore how

mediums create various textures on different surfaces. The course will include discussions on fashion history and character concept design. Fashion Illustration studies will include art history paintings, fashion plates, and technical drawings. There will be opportunities to work collaboratively and perform design presentations. By the end of this course, students will develop and refine their personal style of illustration and have more confidence in realizing their visual ideas.

FASHION & COSTUME DESIGN (UART84)

Duration: 1 semester, offered in Semester 1 and/or 2

Credit: 0.5

Grades: 9-12

Prerequisite: None

Homework: Light

This course offers the opportunity to sew. The student will leave this class feeling comfortable with hand sewing and machine sewing. Students will be exposed to different tools that are available to support the sewing process and learn how to troubleshoot the sewing machine. We will look at the history of sewing from the ice ages to the development of sewing machines during the Industrial Revolution and see where sewing technology is headed. The bulk of this class will be focused on making various products that eventually accumulate sewing experience to efficiently create a simple garment piece. Students are required to speak and engage in discussions prompted by the instructor that relate to the world of fashion.

HONORS FASHION & COSTUME DESIGN (UART84H)

Duration: 1 semester, offered in Semester 1 and/or 2

Credit: 0.5

Grades: 10-12

Prerequisite: Fashion & Costume Design + one additional level one visual art semester course

Homework: Moderate

This course offers a behind-the-scenes look at the world of the fashion designer and the costume designer. The class will be focused on design research and communicating the page-tostage process. Students will go through the motion of fashion sketching, discussing textile materials and bringing a character or full garment to life. Students will be exposed to the principles of design through the lens of various industries and will have the opportunity to develop designs inspired by different stimuli. There will also be opportunities for involvement in the design and construction process for the Dance and Drama productions here at TAS. Honors students are required to take on a leadership role to assist their classmates with sewing and construction skills.

ANALOG PHOTOGRAPHY (UART85)

Duration: 1 semester, offered in Semester 1 and/or 2

Credit: 0.5

Grade: 9-12

Prerequisite: None

Homework: Light

This introductory course will cover the technical, historical, and contemporary elements of analog photography and wet (traditional) darkroom processing as a form of artistic expression. Students will learn to shoot with 35mm film cameras, mix photographic chemistry, develop roll film, make enlargements, and create full-sized negatives for contact processes. Students will establish a foundational understanding of art and design principles in photography, camera operation, and exposure. This course will expose students to a wide range of contemporary photographers’ work and provide opportunities to explore the many different aspects of photography. Much of the coursework will be done in a black-and-white 35mm film environment. Students will participate in constructive critiques and assess their work’s technical, aesthetic, and conceptual aspects. Camera equipment and all necessary supplies will be provided. No prior photography experience is required, but digital photography, film production, or experience using a Single-Lens Reflex (SLR) is strongly encouraged. The class size is limited to six students.

DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY (UART87)

Duration: 1 semester, offered in Semester 1 and/or 2

Credit: 0.5

Grade: 9-12

Prerequisite: None

Homework: Light

This is an introductory course where students learn about the camera as an artistic and communicative tool. The department has 17 DSLR cameras available for student use. Students learn about the technical aspects of the camera such as shutter speeds and aperture to create engaging images. In addition, they use portions of the Adobe Creative Suite-- specifically Photoshop—to enhance the narrative elements of their images. They will learn a wide range of skills leading to developing work that features, light, timing, and composition to express themselves as artists. Students develop an artistic understanding of photography as a means of communication. Student work is assessed on composition, use of class-time, craftsmanship, and creative solutions and graded from the art department website. The curriculum allows for students to work independently and collaboratively whereas each student prepares a portfolio of work to be exhibited. Class size is limited to 17.

HONORS DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY (UART87H)

Duration: 1 semester, offered in Semester 1 and/or 2

Credit: 0.5

Grade: 10-12

Prerequisite: Digital Photography + one additional level one visual art semester course

Homework: Moderate

The curriculum emphasizes the development of a more comprehensive visual language allowing students to demonstrate both technical and conceptual mastery reflective of contemporary photography. Instruction supports the individual student interests is aimed at further developing the visual foundation through digital technical practices. Emphasis is placed on the student’s individual ideation and a personalized portfolio design as it relates to an individualized image making process. In a workshop setting, students explore how to successfully employ photographic

imagery in contemporary society, culture, economy, and politics through art, advertising, social documentary, fashion, and activism. The course focuses on the specialization of a student’s practice through the formations of a self-motivated body of work in photography, which reflect the technical, conceptual, historical, and practical knowledge that the student has gained.

ARCHITECTURE (UART88)

Duration: 1 semester, offered in Semester 1 and/or 2

Credit: 0.5

Grades: 9-12

Prerequisite: None

Homework: Moderate

As an introductory course, students will design structures, build models, use technology to create forms and render images while learning about various types of architecture. Students will develop their visual problem-solving skills, learn about spatial organization. Students will explore various kinds of relationships between people and built form as well as consider the impact of sustainability and concern for the environment through designing, drawing, and model-making. Assignments will explore fundamental design principles that outline the elements of architectural design like those found in the university. Students will gain hand-drawing abilities that inspire and guide them in their own creative process. Computer software such as Rhino and Adobe suite are introduced as additional artistic tools. Students will develop a positive web presence by maintaining the web gallery.

HONORS ARCHITECTURE (UART88H)

Duration: 1 semester, offered in Semester 2 only

Credit: 0.5

Grades: 10-12

Prerequisite: Architecture + one additional level one visual art semester course

Homework: Moderate

As an honors course, Architecture is required before taking the class. Students will continue to design structures, build models, use technology to create forms, and render images while learning about various concepts and design principles. Students will build on their visual problem-solving skills and spatial organization while exploring various kinds of relationships between people and built forms and consider sustainability through designing, drawing, and model-making. Assignments will explore advanced design principles that outline the elements of architectural design like those found at the university level. Students will gain design thinking abilities that inspire and guide them in their own creative process. Students will develop a positive web presence by maintaining the web gallery.

YEAR-LONG COURSES

JOURNALISM-YEARBOOK (UART47)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 9-12

Prerequisite: None

Homework: Light

This introductory course will immerse students in editorial design, photojournalism, and publishing. The class is the core team producing the annual upper school yearbook, Gateway. Students will learn the basics of photography, photo filtering and editing, graphic design, and layout design through use of the Adobe Creative Suite. They will also learn caption and copy writing, as well as become familiar with the workflow involved in publishing. Creating the yearbook is a rewarding and collaborative

experience between editors, members, and the broader school community. Students are often called upon to help document events happening throughout the school. The publication seeks students of all interests, capabilities, and personalities to add to a comprehensive, creative, and professional annual.

HONORS JOURNALISM-YEARBOOK 2 (UART472H) HONORS JOURNALISM-YEARBOOK 3 (UART473H) HONORS JOURNALISM-YEARBOOK 4 (UART474H)

Duration: 1 year, may be taken multiple years

Credit: 1

Grade: 10-12

Prerequisite: Journalism-Yearbook

Homework: Moderate

For students who have successfully completed the introductory class and want to build upon the skills learned in JournalismYearbook. The yearbook class is the core team producing the annual upper school yearbook. As returning members to the editorial team, honors students are expected to take on more of a leadership role. This involves leading as editors or mentors to new members in both the class and the club. Creating the yearbook is a collaborative experience between editors, members, and the broader school community. Students are often called upon to help document events happening throughout the school. Students and their families should be aware that honors students who take this course are expected to spend extra time at school; students must occasionally devote weekends to the production of publication.

FILM PRODUCTION 1 (UART51)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 9-12

Prerequisite: None

Homework: Moderate

The introductory film course will immerse students in video production. The primary focus is on using film as a communicative art. Students will learn the basics of cinematography, camera functions, video editing, media analysis, and visual communication. This project-based class will challenge students to explore and produce many different types of films. Projects will include but are not limited to micro-documentaries, narrative short films, public service announcements, commercials, montages, and music videos. Students should have the ability to work independently and collaboratively and see a project from inception to completion. Students must obtain a 1TB or larger external hard drive to store and manage their digital assets. Class size is limited.

HONORS FILM PRODUCTION 2 (UART52)

HONORS FILM PRODUCTION 3 (UART521)

HONORS FILM PRODUCTION 4 (UART522)

HONORS FILM PRODUCTION 5 (UART523)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 10-12

Prerequisite: Film Production 1 or instructor approval

Homework: Heavy

The Honors Film Production courses are for students who have completed Film Production 1 and want to build on the skills learned. There will be continued hands-on experience in advanced video production and post-production techniques with additional instruction in using professional production equipment. Students are expected to develop more sophisticated films, emphasizing visual communication, production design, sound design, and cinematography. Students can apply for various roles on international competition teams and submit their work to YoungArts and other international film competitions. These project-based courses will aim to provide opportunities for students to collaborate on real-world projects and apply their skills outside the walls of TAS. Students should be able to work independently and collaboratively and see a project from inception to completion. Students and their families should be aware that students who take this course are expected to spend extra time at school; students must occasionally devote evenings and weekends to producing assignments. Students must obtain a 1TB or larger external hard drive to store and manage their digital assets. The class size is limited.

FILM STUDIES (UART531)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 10-12

Prerequisite: None

Homework: Light

For cinema lovers who want to learn more about film history, theory, and the practical production of films. This class equips students with a deep understanding of film through the study and analysis of various cinematic works. It will develop students’ critical abilities and their appreciation of artistic, cultural, historical, and global perspectives in film. Students examine film concepts, theories, practices, and ideas from multiple perspectives, enabling them to develop proficiency in viewing, interpreting, and analyzing films. Film Studies is a one-year non-honors elective which is combined with the IB Film Studies 1 course.

IB

FILM STUDIES YEAR 1 (UART530)

IBSL FILM STUDIES YEAR 2 (UART532)

IBHL FILM STUDIES YEAR 2 (UART542)

Duration: 2 years

Credit: 1 per year

Grade: 11-12

Prerequisite: None

Homework: Moderate

For cinema lovers who want to learn more about film history, theory, and the practical production of films. This class equips students with a deep understanding of film through the study and analysis of various cinematic works. It will develop students’ critical abilities and their appreciation of artistic, cultural, historical, and global perspectives in film. Students examine film concepts, theories, practices, and ideas from multiple perspectives, enabling them to develop proficiency in viewing, interpreting, and analyzing

films. IB Film, which has external and internal assessments, is given honors weighting and must be taken over two years. The first year primarily focuses on theory and analysis while the second year is dedicated to hands-on film production.

HONORS ADVANCED DESIGN (UART50)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 11-12

Prerequisite: 3 semesters of art and teacher recommendation

Homework: Moderate

This course is designed for students at a high level who are looking to be challenged in design thinking and creative problem-solving. This is a project-oriented course where students are exposed to the professional level of design work, in which they understand the experience of a design entrepreneur. Students will be only focused on their interests to drive their projects; it can be in any area that is related to design. Students will have access to a variety of tools to design and manufacture prototypes, sculptures, and architectural models, which will also allow them to take on international competitions. Students will be able to generate industry level works using Rhino and the Adobe Creative suite. The course will also cover design management and strategy and introduce students to entrepreneurship in the design industry.

AP 3D ART & DESIGN (UART331)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grades: 11-12

Prerequisite: 3 semesters of art and teacher recommendation

Homework: Heavy

AP 3D Art & Design is a natural progression for those who have already completed Ceramics, Architecture, and/or Product Design. This course allows students interested in working dimensionally the opportunity to explore structural and sculptural concepts. Students will create a portfolio that addresses broad sculptural concerns. Students will utilize 3D printers (both clay and plastic), the laser cutter, and CNC paper cutter to solve visual problems that directly solve or address the integration of depth and space, volume and surface. Students need to demonstrate their knowledge of and ability to use the Elements of Art and Principles of Design. 3-D Design portfolio students demonstrate an understanding of 3-D design through many approaches, such as additive, subtractive, and relief. Students will investigate forms that are figurative or non-figurative, sculpture, architectural models, metal work, ceramics, glass work, installation, performance, assemblage, and 3-D fabric/fiber arts.

AP 2D ART & DESIGN (UART33)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 11-12

Prerequisite: Drawing + two additional level one visual art semester courses and teacher recommendation

Homework: Heavy

AP 2D Art & Design is a natural progression for those who have already completed Graphic Design, Analog Photography, or Digital Photography. This portfolio is designated for work that focuses on the use of two-dimensional (2-D) elements and principles of art and design, including point, line, shape, plane, layer, form, space, texture, color, value, opacity, transparency, time, unity, variety, rhythm, movement, proportion, scale, balance, emphasis, contrast, repetition, figure/ ground relationship, connection, juxtaposition, and hierarchy. Students should consider how materials, processes, and ideas can be used to make work that exists on a flat surface. Students can work with any materials, processes, and ideas. Graphic design, digital imaging, photography, collage, fabric design, weaving, fashion design, fashion illustration, painting, and printmaking are among the possibilities for submission. The course is intended for students who have a high degree of motivation and a willingness to contribute many hours in the studio outside of class. A minimum of 15 exceptional pieces of art are required to complete the portfolio. The AP 2D Art & Design Portfolio offers students an opportunity to pursue a distinctly individualized program, as each will create and develop a cohesive concentration, exploring a single visual concern in depth. This sustained investigation is assessed based on the AP rubric as to whether it reflects college-level thinking in terms of the use of composition, cohesion, use of class-time, craftsmanship, and creative solutions.

AP DRAWING (UART330)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 11-12

Prerequisite: 3 semesters of art + two additional level one visual art semester courses and teacher recommendation

Homework: Heavy

AP Drawing is a natural progression for those who have already completed Drawing, Painting, or Architecture. This course is designated for work that focuses on the use of mark-making, line, surface, space, light and shade, and composition. Students should consider marks that can be used to make drawings, the arrangement of marks, the materials and processes used to make marks, and relationships of marks and ideas. Students can work with any materials, processes, and ideas. Drawing (analog and digital), painting, printmaking, and mixed media work are among the possibilities for submission. AP Drawing is a college-level course offered to sophomores, juniors and/or seniors. The course is intended for students who have a high degree of motivation and a willingness to contribute many hours in the studio outside of class. A minimum of 15 exceptional pieces of art are required to complete the portfolio. The AP Drawing Portfolio offers students an opportunity to pursue a distinctly individualized program, as each will create and develop a cohesive concentration, exploring a single visual concern in depth. This sustained investigation is assessed based on the AP rubric as to whether it reflects collegelevel thinking in terms of the use of composition, cohesion, use of class-time, craftsmanship, and creative solutions.

AP ART HISTORY (UART32)

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 10-12

Prerequisite: None Homework: Heavy

In the AP Art History course, students are invited to discover the diversity of and connections among global artistic traditions. Art History prepares students interested in fine arts careers such as: art critics, art selling agents, museum curators, art investment researcher, and art restoration. Students interact with different types of art, observing and analyzing relationships of form, function, content, and context through their reading, discussion, research, and writing. Using 250 representative works of art spanning prehistory to the present comprise the course content, students will study functions and effects of art and consider influential forces like belief, class, gender, ethnicity, patronage, and politics in their critical analyses of art forms. They will investigate how humans respond to the world and communicate their experiences through art making by examining chronology, styles, techniques, and themes to compare, contrast, and interpret art forms from varied perspectives and cultures.

IBSL VISUAL ARTS YEAR 1 (UART30)

IBSL VISUAL ARTS YEAR 2 (UART301)

IBHL VISUAL ARTS YEAR 1 (UART31)

IBHL VISUAL ARTS YEAR 2 (UART310)

Duration: 2 years

Credit: 1

Grade: 11-12

Prerequisite: 3 semesters of art and teacher recommendation, or IB Diploma candidate Homework: Heavy

IB Visual Art is a 2-year commitment, which requires endurance, a strong commitment to growth and continual self-improvement, critical awareness, and an eagerness to connect images and ideas. Throughout the course, students develop independent research skills while making a variety of artwork that is personally meaningful and form the basis of a cohesive body of work. Students maintain a process journal that demonstrates cultural understanding, creative problem-solving skills, idea development, and reflections on their artistic successes and failures. In addition, students explore a variety of artist references on which to draw inspiration, as well as to learn how to critically analyze works of art. Artworks will be showcased through a digital portfolio by maintaining a web gallery. At the end of junior year, students will have a number of artworks that can be included in a college portfolio. At the end of the two years, students will showcase a selection of their artwork in the IB Art Exhibition. Students will also enter artwork into competitions such as IASAS Art, and YoungArts. Extra expenses related to this course include: the IB registration fee, matting and presentation costs, and tools or materials beyond what is available in the Art Department.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION FLOW CHART

HPE

Grade 9

HPE

Grade 10

Adventure & Fitness

Individual Activities & Fitness

Recreational Activities

Dance / PE

Fitness Training

HEALTH & PHYSICAL EDUCATION GRADE 9 (UHPE01)

Required

Duration: 1 year

Credit: 1

Grade: 9

Homework: Light

The co-educational HPE program is designed to provide each student with experiences in fitness, water polo, self-defense, health and a variety of team sports. The program emphasizes team concepts and strategies as well as developing and improving fundamental motor skills. Students will develop social and personal responsibilities associated with participation in team sports. They will also learn how to monitor and maintain a healthy level of physical fitness. Health topics include CPR, human sexuality, current health issues, and nutrition. All health units encourage students to acquire the skills and attitudes that will assist them

HPE

Grade 11-12

Elective:

Fitness Training

Advanced Fitness Training

Adventure & Fitness

Individual Activities & Fitness

Recreational Activities

Dance / PE

in managing their lives and relationships in a responsible and healthy manner.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION GRADE 10

Required: Selection of two courses below

Duration: 1 each semester

Credit: 0.5 each semester, total 1

Grade: 10

Homework: Light

Through the co-educational HPE program, students will learn how to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle through their engagement in their choice, where possible, of a variety of physical activities. All grade 10 students will take a required Mental Health, Substance Use, and Human Sexuality Unit within their chosen HPE elective.

* The same course can not be taken twice.

Intelligence and skill can only function at the peak of their capacity when the body is healthy and strong.”

ADVENTURE & FITNESS (UHPE02)

This course will cover an introduction to strength training, ropes course (confidence course) and aquatics. In the confidence course, we will grow as a group through various team building exercises. We will explore our comfort levels by challenging ourselves with low, medium and high-level elements. The course will help us gradually grow our confidence by challenging our comfort levels in a safe space. Students with an extreme fear of heights should consult with a PE teacher. In the aquatics unit, we will be covering boating, kayaking, survival swimming and rescue techniques. We will continue to build on our foundation of fitness that will help us maintain a healthy lifestyle.

INDIVIDUAL ACTIVITIES & FITNESS (UHPE03)

This course will be covering introduction to strength training, Brazilian jiu jitsu, tennis, and social dance. We will gain a better understanding of our body, our comfort levels and ways to challenge ourselves physically and mentally. We want to be comfortable with being uncomfortable within a safe space as this provides us with the opportunity to grow and develop. We will continue to build on our foundation of fitness that will help us maintain a healthy lifestyle.

RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES (UHPE04)

This course will be an introduction to a variety of recreational sports including Volleyball, Basketball, Pickleball, and Floor Hockey. Students will continue to develop their skills and have ample time to play the above sports with their peers. As with all of our course offerings, fitness will be a component to class and students should expect to sweat during class.

*The above three classes (UHPE02, UHPE03, and UHPE04) are the only classes that can be taken as Sports for Credit.

DANCE / PE (UHPE05)

In this course students will learn techniques from various dance styles such as jazz, hip hop, ballet, and theatre dance with an emphasis on modern dance. Students will learn to manipulate space, time, and energy in creating dances. An emphasis will be placed on improving individual levels of fitness.

(Please see Performing Arts Department for other Dance courses.)

FITNESS TRAINING (UHPE07)

This course is open to students who want to continue to learn about and improve their personal fitness. It is also open to junior/ senior transfers who need to fulfill TAS HPE requirements. Students will work towards personal fitness goals, develop a personalized fitness program and develop a greater understanding of the wide range of fitness-related activities in which they can participate. These activities include: weight training, plyometrics, and cardiorespiratory workouts. Students will also develop an awareness of health-related aspects of fitness training such as sports injuries, posture analysis, physiological affects of exercise on the body, and nutrition.

SPORTS FOR CREDIT

In recognition of the time and effort expended in athletic activity during practices and games, sophomore students who are involved in TAS Varsity Sports teams may choose to use their HPE class time (only UHPE02,03,04) as a free period during the sports season.

John F. Kennedy

Exercise and recreation are as necessary as reading. I will rather say more necessary, because health is worth more than learning.”

Thomas Jefferson

PHYSICAL EDUCATION ELECTIVES FOR GRADE 11 & 12

The below courses are available for any 11th or 12th grade student, if space allows.

ADVENTURE & FITNESS (UHPE02)

INDIVIDUAL ACTIVITIES & FITNESS (UHPE03) RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES (UHPE04)

Duration: 1 semester / 1 year

Credit: 0.5 or 1

Grade: 10-12

Homework: None

DANCE / PE (UHPE05)

Duration: 1 semester / 1 year

Credit: 0.5 or 1

Grade: 10-12

Prerequisite: No previous dance experience is required, but a desire to explore a variety of dance forms is necessary

Homework: Light

FITNESS TRAINING (UHPE07)

Duration: 1 semester / 1 year

Credit: 0.5 or 1

Grade: 10-12

Homework: Light

ADVANCED FITNESS TRAINING (UHPE08)

Duration: 1 semester / 1 year

Credit: 0.5 or 1

Grade: 11-12

Prerequisite: Fitness Training (UHPE07)

Homework: Light

This course will take a deeper look into strength and conditioning performance aspects by teaching students how to measure exercise performance parameters and develop exercise prescription. Topics of study will include: assessment of aerobic/ anaerobic capacities, modes of strength and conditioning training (i.e. interval, circuit, non-linear, linear training), proper warm-up and cool down practices, program design for muscular strength, power, hypertrophy, and flexibility, as well as sport medicine theory and pre/rehabilitative processes (i.e. pre-screening, risk classification, back to play, etc.)

SUPPORT SERVICES

ACADEMIC SUPPORT GRADES 9 TO 12 (USSS01)

Duration: 1 semester or 1 year

Credit: None

Grade: 9 - 12

Prerequisite: Student Resources Team (SRT) recommendation only

Homework: None

Academic Support is a highly individualized program that is based on the educational needs of each student. Instruction may be provided in the areas of reading, writing, mathematics, notetaking, test preparation, meta-cognition, planning, and time management. In most cases, parental permission, individualized evaluation and implementation of either an Individualized Learning Plan or an Individualized Accommodation Plan are required for participation in the program. Speech-Language therapy may also be a part of the class in certain cases. (see Speech/Language Therapy Services USSS09)

SPEECH/LANGUAGE THERAPY (USSS09)

(A component of the Academic Support Class)

Homework: None

Speech-language therapy is an individualized program that supports students’ communication skills. Speech-language therapy can support a student’s speech, spoken language, written language, fluency, voice, or social communication skills. Parental permission, completion of a speech-language evaluation, and implementation of an Individualized Learning Plan are required for participation in this course. Interventions are taught by a licensed speech-language pathologist.

INDEPENDENT STUDY (USPC05)

Requests for independent study must begin with an agreement between the student and an instructor who is willing to supervise, support, and evaluate the student; they will propose coursework, projects, and homework load.

ONLINE OPPORTUNITIES

Upper School students have the option to take courses online through two partner programs: Pamoja and Global Online Academy (GOA). Students interested in pursuing a GOA or Pamoja course should speak with their academic counselor prior to course registration. Additional fees may be associated with taking these courses. Details of these fees will be shared with families before a student registers for a course.

PAMOJA (IB DIPLOMA CANDIDATES)

Full IB Diploma Candidates who wish to take a language or social science course that is not offered as part of the diploma program at TAS may choose to do so through the online provider Pamoja. Any student choosing to enroll in a Pamoja course must take an additional free period to provide time during the school day to complete coursework. IB Diploma candidates wishing to enroll in a Pamoja course, must first speak to the IB Diploma Coordinator.

GLOBAL ONLINE ACADEMY

Global Online Academy (GOA) is a consortium of independent and international schools that offer courses online of which TAS is a member. GOA supplements our course catalog for additional learner-centered experiences and presents students with the opportunity to take a wide range of elective subjects with peers in different countries. While the workload in GOA courses does vary (roughly 5-7 hours per week), class participation is mandatory, and students are required to do project-based assignments with partners and small groups. The course(s) and credit(s) will, in most cases, appear on the transcript along with the other classes taken at TAS and will be counted towards the GPA. To register for a GOA course, the student will be interviewed by the Site Director to assess if GOA is a good fit and manageable with the student's overall course and co-curricular commitments.

TAIPEI AMERICAN SCHOOL MISSION STATEMENT

Taipei American School’s mission is to cultivate an enduring commitment to learning, personal well-being, and service. We provide a broad American-based education with a global perspective that develops students of character who are committed to making the world a better place.

台北美國學校的使命在於培育熱愛學習、重 視身心健康、和服務他人的持續堅持。我們 提供具有全球觀的多元化美式教育，支持學 生健全品格的發展，以及致力讓世界變得更 加美好的熱忱。