Course Descriptions

Welcome to the Galway High School Guidance Department.
We are committed to providing students and parents the resources needed to support the students educational and career goals. 

 

ENGLISH

 

English 9- Students in this course will have four on-going assignments: independent reading journal, a reader’s response journal, a vocabulary journal and an independent writing journal. Students will also complete a major research project called "A Life Worth Knowing". Students are asked to keep a writing portfolio, which will follow them through to graduation. Students will read an extensive collection of poetry and short stories, as well as, To Kill a Mockingbird and Macbeth.

Credits: 1

English 10- English 10 students can expect to read a variety of genres including short stories, both classic and modern, plays, novels, non-fiction, and poetry. The Miracle Worker, Romeo and Juliet, Lord of the Flies, and Night are the major titles currently read in this course. Students can also expect to write several papers on a variety of topics, including a research paper on a controversial issue. Vocabulary and reading responses are recorded in a journal that is maintained regularly throughout the year. At least one creative project is assigned each quarter. Literature related discussions are encouraged.

Credits: 1

English 11- English 11includes a variety of readings in American literature with a focus on Native American, period literature (The Crucible, The Great Gatsby), poetry, short stories, and novels. Major papers include a style study and a criticism. Additional papers are literature based and sometimes parallel to regents questions. Analogy, root, prefix, suffix, and a vocabulary program help develop language skills. Independent reading and Regents preparation are also an integral part of the program.

Credits: 1

English 12- English 12 provides on-going development of reading, writing, speaking, listening and technology skills. Topics of study include the development of English language and British literature from the Anglo-Saxon period to the present, personal and informal essays, memoirs, poetry and short fiction, Adirondack literature, and literary theory and criticism. Students keep vocabulary and reading journals; present book talks, and continue developing skills using computer technology.

Credits: 1

Creative Writing- Students will participate in a variety of writing activities including journal writing, guided free writing, prompted exercises, analyzing writing models, drafting, critiquing, and revising. Students will keep writers’ notebooks to develop vocabulary and analyze professional writers’ styles. Students will create portfolios of their work as a "final exam" and participate in publishing a class journal as a final project. This course is offered as a full year English 12 course. Students may enroll in either semester as an elective. It may also be offered as a distance learning course.

Prerequisite: Student must have an 85 or higher in English 11.

Credits: 1

Shakespeare- (A UHS Course)-This full year course corresponds to the SUNY Albany course Reading Shakespeare 144L. It provides an introduction to Shakespearean genres: sonnet, comedy, tragedy, history and tragicomedy. Students will participate in a variety of activities including acting exercises, class discussions, writing assignments, written exams and projects. Students will complete two projects, a critical paper and a portfolio review of their work as part of a final exam. This is a college level course open to seniors. Students in this course will enroll in the UHS program to be eligible to earn 3 SUNY Albany credits. The course may also be offered as a distance learning course.

Prerequisite: 85 or higher on the ELA Regents and teacher recommendation.

Credits: 1

SUNY Credits: 3 (from SUNY Albany)

 

MATH

Applied Math I- This is the first course of a two-year program leading to the Math A Regents Exam. All students must pass the Math A Regents Exam in order to graduate. Students in Applied Math I will explore the principles of algebra from an applied approach. In this slower paced algebra course the topics covered include integers, using formulas, linear equations, functions, probability, systems of equations, inequalities, quadratics, and right triangle relationships. A final exam will be given at the end of this course. This course fulfills the first year requirement of high school math.

Credits: 1

Applied Math II- This is the second course of a two-year program leading to the Math A Regents Exam. All students must pass the Math A Regents Exam in order to graduate. In this course the students will continue to sharpen their algebra skills and explore topics in geometry from an applied approach. Topics studied include reasoning, triangles, quadrilaterals, similarity, coordinate geometry, area, perimeter, volume, and transformations. Students will take BOTH a final exam for the course and the Math A Regents Exam in June. This course fulfills the second year requirement of high school math.

Credits: 1

Applied Math III-This course is geometry based but a thorough review of algebra and Math A topics will also occur. The primary focus of this course is successful performance on the Math A Regents Exam, but with a broader study of the topics covered in Applied Math I and II. This course is especially designed for students who have not successfully completed the Math A Regents and/or students who need a third year of math but are not ready for Algebra II (Course III). Students will take a final exam and the Math A Regents exam in January and June if needed. This course will fulfill the third year requirement of high school math.

Credits: 1

Applied Algebra 2- This course is designed for students who have successfully completed the Math A exam. The course reinforces many of the previously studied concepts of Algebra and Geometry with the applied math approach. Topics include: functions, quadratics (including the quadratic formula), statistics, probability and combinations. Trigonometric concepts include radian to degree measures, the Unit Circle, and the sine, cosine, and tangent functions. Series and sequences are also dealt with during this course. There will be a midterm and final exam for the course. This course fulfills the third year requirement of high school math.

Credits: 1

Algebra I- Algebra I is designed to cover approximately 2/3 of the Math A curriculum. This is the first year of a two-year program leading to the Math A Regents Exam. All students must pass the Math A Regents exam in order to graduate. Students in Algebra 1 will be exploring the inner workings of algebra studying topics like variable expressions, algebraic fractions, quadratics, functions, systems of equations, inequalities, and the Pythagorean Theorem as well as revisiting topics covered in the 8th grade curriculum. A final exam will be given at the end of this course. This course fulfills the first year requirement of high school math.

Credits: 1

Geometry- Geometry is the second course of a two-year program leading to the Math A Regents Exam. All students must pass the Math A Regents Exam in order to graduate. This course consists of a comprehensive study of plane geometry including constructions, analytic geometry and the geometric proof. The course also includes logic, right triangle trigonometry, probability, transformations, similarity, area, perimeter, and volume. Students will take BOTH a final exam for the course and the Math A Regents Exam in June. This course fulfills the second year requirement of high school math.

Credits: 1

Algebra 2-This course offers a deeper investigation of topics explored in Algebra and Geometry. Topics include functions, exponents, logarithms, factoring, complex numbers, radicals, trigonometry (including the law of sines and the law of cosines), and probability. There will be a midterm and final exam for this course. This course fulfills the third year requirement of high school math.

Credits: 1

Algebra 2/Trigonometry- Algebra 2/Trig is designed to enhance the topics taught in Algebra I as well as visit new topics. The Math B curriculum will be the focus of the course. Topics studied include quadratic, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions, polynomials, probability, and statistics. The Math B Regents exam will be the final exam for this course. This course will fulfill the third year requirement of high school math.

Credits: 1

Pre-calculus-Pre-calculus explores the topics of Algebra II in depth. This course is graphing calculator enhanced. Topics being explored include polynomial and rational functions, analytic geometry and trigonometry, systems of equalities and inequalities, matrices, sequences, and an introduction to limits. A final exam is given at the end of this course.

Prerequisites: Successful completion of Algebra 2/Trig and the Math B Regents exam.

Credits: 1

Statistics- (A UHS Course)-This course is designed as an elective for students who would like an additional math course. This course follows the curriculum of the Advanced Placement (AP) Statistics course. Topics studied include normal distributions, examining relationships, probability, and inference (confidence intervals, significance testing and chi-square procedures). This course concludes with a major statistical research project that includes a power-point presentation and paper which counts as the final exam and part of the fourth marking period grade. AP credit may be obtained if the student wishes to do additional work independently (fee for this program also).

Prerequisites: Successful completion of Algebra 2/Trig and the Math B Regents exam.

HS Credits: 1

SUNY Credits: 3 (from SUNY Albany)

Calculus- (A UHS Course)-This is a first year calculus course following the curriculum of the Advanced Placement (AP) Calculus AB course. Topics studied include differential and integral calculus. This course is graphing calculator enhanced. There will be a final exam in this course. AP credit may be obtained if the student wishes to do additional work independently (fee for this program also).

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Pre-calculus or department recommendation.

HS Credits: 1

SUNY Credits: 4 (from SUNY Albany)

 

 

SCIENCE

Earth Science-This NYS Regents course is the study of our planet, its changing systems, and its setting in the universe. Geology, astronomy, meteorology, and paleontology are the main topics. The laboratory exercises are an integral part of the course. The final is the Earth Science Regents exam.

Credits: 1

Living Environment-This NYS Regents course covers basic concepts of biology, scientific inquiry, and laboratory skills. Ecology, evolution, reproduction and development, genetics, cellular biology and basic biochemical processes are some of the topics covered. The laboratory exercises are an integral part of the course. The final is the Living Environment Regents exam

Credits: 1

Chemistry-This laboratory based Regents course of study presents a modern view of chemistry suitable for students with a wide range of skills and abilities. The outline of topics provides the unifying principles of chemistry. The principles included are basic to the understanding of our environment. The laboratory requirement must be successfully completed for Regents credit.

Credits: 1

Physics-This laboratory based Regents course presents a modern view of physics with major emphasis placed on the fundamental concepts underlying this basic science. The course is designed to encourage the utilization of such basic concepts as the conservation of energy, the conservation of momentum, the conservation of chouse, vectors and scalars, and fields as unifying themes rather than as isolated topics. This approach tends to foster an appreciation for the unity of physics. The laboratory requirement must be successfully completed for Regents credit.

Credits: 1

Oceanography- This course will focus on the fundamental topics necessary to understand that the ocean is a dynamic system of living and non-living components. It will be interdisciplinary in nature and incorporate components of the Earth Science, Living Environment, Chemistry and Physics core curriculums. The major components of this course will include ocean currents, waves, tidal systems, and life in the oceans, as well as, water chemistry.

Credits: 1/2

Forensics-This course will provide an introduction to forensics and crime scene investigation. It will be interdisciplinary in nature and incorporate components of the Living Environment, Chemistry, and Physics core curriculums. Students will expand upon their knowledge of genetics and heredity to learn how blood analysis, DNA, fingerprints, and toxicology are involved in helping to solve crimes. Students will use microscopes and chromatography and other technology to help them solve simulated crime investigations.

Credits: 1/2

AP Biology- Students use the methods of science to become familiar with the process of scientific investigation. They learn how to handle data, use literature, and to develop experiments and ideas in investigating biological phenomena. The course culminates with the Advanced Placement examination by which students may earn college credits. There is a final project and local final exam.

Credits: 1

 

 

SOCIAL SCIENCES

Global History 1- The global history and geography core curriculum is designed to focus on the five social studies standards, which include common themes that recur across time and place, and eight historical units. This curriculum provides students with the opportunity to explore what is happening in various regions and civilizations at a given time. In addition, it enables students to investigate issues and themes from multiple perspectives and make global connections and linkages that lead to in-depth understanding. The ninth grade portion of this two-year study takes student from the area of ways to study global history to events leading up to the scientific revolution.

Credits: 1

Global History 2- World history is studied in a chronological method. The course begins with the Enlightenment and French Revolution and continues through to the world today. Students will explore themes such as diversity, scarcity, war and peace, technology and interdependence among several others. The Regents exam is the final exam.

Credits: 1

US History and Government-This survey history course studies historical events that affected our nation from the enactment of the Constitution to the present day. The course covers US history with a focus on how the Constitution was interpreted or changed as our government addressed national problems and reacted to world events.

Credits: 1

Participation in Government- This course culminates the social studies program and addresses civics, citizenship and government. Character education and real world experiences such as attending various community meetings and volunteering time on community projects, learning about current political, social and economic events make up much of the course. Several projects and a research project allow students to explore some of their own interests.

Credits: 1/2

Economics- This course is a study of economic theory, finance, business and entrepreneurship created to help students see the connection between their own economic system and the rest of the global economy. As an introductory course it allows students to grasp concepts and learn vocabulary. Students play the stock market game in an Internet version and use materials from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York to understand the interaction of fiscal and monetary policy.

Credits: 1/2

Future Studies: This course will explore what society could possibly be like in the near future. Students will study different aspects of life that will be affected by change such as: technology, medicine, communication, business, the media, and the military. Students will develop theories on the possible effects these changes could have on population trends, the environment, the economy, education, as well as, our world, nation, state, and community.

Credits: 1/2

The Adirondacks: A half year course that studies the region called the Adirondacks. The course will cover topics that include the history of the park, its natural resources, the human and cultural history, tourism and more. Included in the study of this course will be a guest speaker, a field trip to the Adirondack Museum and a culminating project.

Credits: 1/2

The History of Saratoga County: A half year course that will study the County of Saratoga from its original inhabitants to the modern era of today. Included will be an in depth look at native Americans, exploration and settlement, famous and infamous people, tourism, the development of small towns and much more. Included in the study of this course will be a guest speaker, a field trip, and a culminating project.

Credits: 1/2

 

Street Law: This course will provide practical information and problem-solving opportunities that develop in students the knowledge and skills necessary for survival in our law-saturated society. Course work will include case studies, mock trials, role-plays, small group exercises among other activities. Topics will include criminal law and juvenile justice, tort law, and family law. A field trip is planned.

Credits: 1/2

Introduction to Psychology: Psychology is both one of the most familiar and one of the most mysterious of sciences. It is the science of human behavior. This course will explore a wide range of topics including thought, intelligence, emotion, human development, personality, and disorders. Course work will include case studies, experiments, discussions, self-analysis and more.

Credits: 1/2

 

FOREIGN LANGUAGE

French I- The beginning level of French is completed after studying the language for 2 years in 7th and 8th grades. One high school credit is earned at the end of 8th grade upon passing the NYS Proficiency exam. In 7th grade, the text is the first half of Discovering French-Bleu. The second part of this text is used in 8th grade. Typical vocabulary includes: greetings, family, community, classroom objects, expressing feelings, giving descriptions, shopping, etc. Grammar includes all regular verbs, several common irregular verbs, present tense, past tense, the ability to express the future, noun gender and adjective agreement.

Credits: 1

French II-This course starts the second level text Discovering French-Blanc. Students will do about half of this text this year. Several more irregular verbs are added and vocabulary is expanded. There are more reading, culture, speaking and writing activities. Topics covered this year include food, beverages, shopping at the supermarket, ordering at a restaurant and attending cultural events.

Credits: 1

French III-This course finishes the text Discovering French-Blanc and reviews for the NYS Regents exam. In addition to expanding vocabulary, several compound tenses are added. There is more emphasis on writing and speaking in preparation for the state exam. Topics included this year are talking about one’s health, sports, reflexive verbs, rooms and furniture, weather, clothing, vacation and travel plans, and driving.

Credits: 1

French IV- (A UHS Course) The text used is Discovering French. In addition to advanced vocabulary and grammar, there are units on Impressionism, Music and French films. Students will also read and discuss short stories and poems. This course may be taken for SUNY Albany credit.

Credit: 1

SUNY Credits: 3 (from SUNY Albany)

Spanish 9- Spanish 9 is designed as a one-year course for those students not continuing with Spanish. Vocabulary learned is related to: family, school, numbers, adjectives, occupations, days, months, parts of the body, telling time, animals, food, places, clothing, weather, and nature. Grammar learned is: present tense conjugations of regular verbs, making nouns plural, definite and indefinite articles, adjective agreement, possessive adjectives, prepositions, and question words. Spanish 9 has no textbook.

Credits: 1

Spanish II- Spanish II is offered to those students who have passed the 8th grade proficiency exam in Spanish. Spanish II uses the book Paso a Paso 2. Vocabulary learned is related to: school subjects, school equipment, school activities, personal hygiene, instruments, clothing, currency, sports, music, games, toys, animals, playground equipment, childhood activities, celebrations, family, and holidays. Grammar learned is: Comparisons and superlatives, direct objects, reflexive verbs, boot verbs, preterit of regular verbs, demonstrative adjectives and pronouns, imperfect and sole verbs.

Credits: 1

Spanish III-Spanish III uses the book Pasos y Puentes. The Spanish Regents is taken at the end of this year. Vocabulary learned is related to: train travel, hotels, beauty and barbershops, clothes shopping, musical instruments, art and art forms, family and other celebrations, family relationships, materials and minerals, professions, household appliances and chores, cooking, sports, the telephone, the post office, and the car. Grammar learned is: the preterit –ar verbs, negative words, reflexive verbs, numbers, the present progressive, the verb sequir, the imperfect, the futuro, the conditional, introduction to the present perfect.

Credits: 1

Spanish IV- (A UHS Course) Spanish IV uses the textbook Dime-Pasaporte al mundo 21. A variety of topics are covered such as the history of Mexicans in the US, the history of Puerto Ricans in the US, and the history of Cubans in the US. Influential Hispanic individuals are also studied. Spanish IV also studies the history of Spain from the Roman Empire to modern day. Some other topics covered that are not found in the book are the United Nations, writing children’s books, cooking, art projects, and a travel project. This course may be taken for SUNY Albany credit.

HS Credits: 1

SUNY Credits: 3 (from SUNY Albany)

 

FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCES

Food & Nutrition Core–The content of this course is learned through hands-on experiences in the kitchen labs. Kitchen safety and sanitation, nutrition, meal management, food purchasing, food preparation and related careers will be explored. During kitchen labs, basic food recipes will be prepared, eaten and evaluated. Foods labs are mandatory for this course.

Credits: 1/2

International Foods- Both cultural and regional cuisines will be studied with kitchen labs to prepare, serve, eat, and evaluate the various cuisines. Advanced cooking techniques as well as plate presentation will be taught. This course is recommended to those students who wish to expand basic kitchen knowledge and apply these skills to cultural and regional foods, while learning and applying more advanced skills. Food labs are mandatory for this course.

Credits: 1/2

Family Living- Beginning with conception, pregnancy and childbirth, this course covers the rewards and challenges of parenthood. Emphasizing family dynamics, parenting techniques and resource management, Family Living will provide knowledge and skills necessary to becoming a responsible family member, effective parent, and resourceful citizen.

Credits: 1/2

Adolescent Psychology-this course is designed to specifically center on the needs and development of the adolescent. Communication, effective coping and problem solving skills will be the focus. Issues facing teens, setting realistic goals, understanding personal values and relationship building will be investigated. Reflective journals will be kept and a community service project will be part of this course.

Credits: 1/2

Child Development- the physical, emotional, social, and intellectual development of the infant, toddler, and preschooler will be the main focus of this course. Daily care, guidance, play, special needs children, health and safety will also be addressed. This course is recommended for students interested in nursery school or elementary education, social work, or health related occupations. A minimum of 3 hours of observation/interaction in the Headstart program is required.

****Family Living is a prerequisite for this course.

Credits: 1/2

Fashion & Textiles- Explore clothing and textiles as a medium for artistic expression, while studying the principles and elements of design. Other topics will include cultural and historical aspects of clothing and textiles, fabric and clothing selection and care, and careers in the fashion and textile industry. Fashion Design is designed for students wishing to expand their knowledge of clothing construction, express their individuality, and better evaluate quality of ready made garments. The cost for clothing projects will be an out of pocket expense.

Credits: 1/2

Interior Design-Learn about design as it relates to housing. Students will develop a portfolio and apply the principles and elements of design to home interiors and exteriors. Other topics of study include the history and culture of housing, consumer issues in housing, and decorating techniques. Lab time is spent practicing decorating techniques and skills used to decorate your living space.

Credits: 1/2

Career Exploration Internship Program-The CEIP is a career exploratory course designed to provide seniors with unpaid workplace experience in a specific career area. Student interns will obtain first-hand understanding and appreciation of the knowledge, skills, and education requirements necessary for various occupations. A mentor from the chosen profession will work closely with the student. Interns are expected to keep a journal of the internship experience, as well as, complete school course work covering topics such as positive work ethics, career aptitude tests, developing a resume’, ands career preparation. Students are expected to practice confidentiality. Appropriate attire is required, as well as transportation if the site is off campus.

Credits: 1

 

BUSINESS EDUCATION

e-Commerce- (A UHS Course) Students will publish an on-line information service about Galway High School. Students will use their website to promote fund-raising events, create their own on-line Auction, obtain site sponsorship and use traditional Marketing concepts on the World Wide Web. Students will promote school sports activities and report on topics they find of interest. They will be taught how to successfully use proven e-business concepts. They will apply these concepts to real-world tasks as employees of a real be-commerce business.

Credits: 1

UHS Credits: 3 (from SCCC)

Business Management- (A UHS Course) This course will introduce the diverse world of business, its structure and its impact on society. It will cover basic principles of management, types of business ownership, financial management, human resource management, marketing and sports sponsorships and endorsements. This course will also begin to introduce students to concepts of both business law and broader concept of the legal system as it applies to law enforcement, renting vs. owning property and contact law.

Credits: 1

UHS Credits: 3 (from SCCC)

Introduction to Computers- (A UHS Course)This course will introduce the Microsoft Office suite of applications: Word, Power Point, Excel, and Access. This class will use these applications to solve real business problems by working in teams and individually. Students will learn how to create and manage projects, plan, organize and present through hands-on computer experience.

Credits: 1

UHS Credits: 3 (from SCCC)

Career & Financial Management- This course is designed to help students develop work place skills and explore different occupational subject areas. The class emphasizes the application of foundation skills and competencies essential in the work place. Each student will begin and plan a career portfolio that will record their goals and interests. The class will also cover financial management and economic issues. Students will learn about different types of insurance as well as complete realistic and detailed bank reconciliations. This course is required for students that attend BOCES.

Credits: 1

Accounting-This course will cover basic concepts of accounting and how journal entries work. Students will obtain the knowledge of business papers, office procedures and business practices in bookkeeping, accounting and financial analysis. It also develops the ability to maintain ledger accounts and interpret financial statements. Accounting is a must course for any student entering the business field.

Credits: 1

 

TECHNOLOGY

 

Energy Systems- Energy Systems is a half year course. It will introduce students to renewable and alternative energy forms, availability of the energy forms, and the technology behind their use.

Credits: 1/2

Transportation Systems-Transportation Systems presents an overview of land, marine, and aerospace transportation systems. The course includes exciting, hands-on activities associated with each of the previous topics. Students are given the opportunity to work individually and in groups to make a recumbent bicycle, rebuild small engines, and construct various aircraft. Students will look at purpose, needs, and design of all forms of transportation.

Credits: 1/2

Production Systems-Production Systems provides instruction in the systems of manufacturing and construction. Manufacturing will be broken down into design, production (majority of the course), financing, and marketing of a product. The class will form a corporation, initiate and design a product, mass produce, market, and sell their product for a profit. The construction unit will be divided into siting, excavating, foundations, structures, and roofing.

Credits: 1/2

Residential Structures- The course goes into every aspect of residential building. Topics include: plan reading, siting, excavating, foundations, framing, wiring, plumbing, roofing, finishing, doors, and windows. Students will learn first-hand how to: lay bricks/blocks, build wall sections, install windows, wire circuits, solder pipes, and landscape properties.

Credits: 1/2

Design and Drawing for Production-A course that teaches problem-solving skills, with emphasis on visualization and communication skills, using a computer and 3-D solid modeling software. Students use CADD software (inventor) to teach the Design Process. Students begin the year by sketching and using traditional drafting tools, then move into CADD drawing, presentations, and marketing of their new designs.

Credits: 1

Digital Electronics-A course in applied digital logic, using electronic logic circuits that first are designed and then tested using the latest computer digital-logic modeling technology. Computer simulation software is used to design and test digital circuitry prior to the actual construction of circuits and devices.

Credits: 1

Principles of Engineering- A course that helps students understand the field of engineering/engineering technology and identify career possibilities. Theoretical and hands-on problem solving activities are emphasized.

*** DDP is a prerequisite for this course.

Credits: 1

***Biotechnology- Biotechnical Engineering includes experiences from the diverse fields of bio-technology including bio-medical engineering, bio-molecular genetics, bio-process engineering, agricultural and environmental engineering. It is a project-based curriculum. Students will apply biological and engineering concepts to design materials and processes that directly measure, repair, improve, and extend living systems. This course can be taken by 11th & 12th grade students. Can be used for the third year science requirement.

*** This course may not be offered.

 

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Activities are based upon team building activities, individual activities, and lifetime wellness. These activities provide students with opportunities to develop strong and healthy bodies, safety, and to acquire knowledge, interest and attitudes about themselves and others through decision making, leading, following, respect for authority, and cooperation. Some of the activities offered include: adventure education, archery, badminton, basketball, CPR and first aid, dance, flag football, golf, mountain/road biking, inline skating, cross-country skiing, snow-shoeing, fitness testing, volleyball, weight training, softball, and tennis. This class is every other day, and students will be graded on class participation, citizenship, skill, and knowledge on a pass/fail basis. All students must change into activity-appropriate clothing, ex sneakers, shorts, tee shirts, sweats, ect.

Credits: 1/2

 

MUSIC EDUCATION

Music In Our Lives- Music in our Lives is a high school music elective for any student. Typically students can expect to experience a variety of musical topics/activities in a fun and relaxing environment. Some of these topics include music theory (reading music), music history (classical, jazz, and rock), performance, composition, conducting, etc. Although the workload is often on the lighter side, several homework assignments, quizzes and special projects are given throughout the year. This is an excellent opportunity for a student to complete the "Fine Arts" credit for graduation.

Credits: 1

Music Theory- This course is geared for students with extensive experiences in band or chorus, or have taken private music lessons. The year begins with an in-depth look at music theory (clefs, key signatures, scales, chords, transposition, etc.). Depending on class enrollment and prior knowledge, the class may continue with theory into the 2nd half of the year or begin a look at music history. The class is often reserved for upperclassmen and/or students who are considering a career in a music field.

Credits: 1

High School Band- This course consists of students in grades 9-12; the majority of whom have had previous experience in the elementary and middle school band programs. Students must play a brass, woodwind, or percussion instrument; such as the flute, trumpet, trombone, or snare drum. In addition to rehearsing on a daily basis, each student is provided with a weekly private or small group lesson. The band performs regularly in the Galway community, and usually takes a trip every two years. Students are expected to achieve high standards of musicianship, and are encouraged to remain in the program through their senior year. * Students may also have an opportunity to perform with a Jazz Band (including drum set, guitar, bass, and piano). This is an extra-curricular activity that meets after school or in the evening.

Credits: 1

High School Chorus- Students learn how to read notes and musical notations, which are used in choral music. A big part of class time is spent in warm-ups and work on vocal technique and tone quality. Students will work on a wide variety of songs, like classical, movie and show tunes, pop, rock, gospel and songs from musicals. Students perform at three concerts throughout the year. Students interested in chorus, but have no choral experience should see the teacher prior to joining.

Credits: 1

 

ART EDUCATION

Studio in Art- This is a one-year foundation course for students in grades 9-12. This course is designed not only for students planning to elect further art course, but also for those desiring a broad background in the visual arts. Art is studied in a historical context with projects and material choices planned to correspond to each time period being studied.

Note- This course is a prerequisite for all other art courses.

Credits: 1

Ceramics- This course is designed to teach students the properties of clay, clay forming techniques, glaze properties and techniques, and the history of pottery. Projects include studies of many different cultures and the importance of design, shape, color and the functionality of different clay pieces to these cultures. By the end of the course students will have an understanding of the use and firing procedures involved with the electric kiln.

Credits: 1

Sculpture- This course is designed to teach students the concepts, techniques and tools involved with creating sculptural forms. As the class gains knowledge of famous sculptors each student will adapt the artists’ style to their own, and will construct his/her own sculpture. Various media and methods are employed throughout the year.

Credits: 1

Studio Drawing and Painting- This full-year course is designed for the serious art student wishing to gain greater knowledge and skill in all areas of drawing and painting. Emphasis is placed on technique, composition, color, and value and art history as it pertains to each unit studied.

Credits: 1

Portfolio- This full-year course is designed for the serious art student to help them prepare a portfolio for college. From creating a resume and artist statement, to learning how to take professional slides of their artwork, the course will help prepare young artists to mature proficiently. "Presentation is everything" when attempting to make a first impression that may alter one’s life. The art portfolio class will help the students both organize and express themselves in an exuberant manner.

Credits: 1

Photography- This is a full year course designed to teach students the fundamentals of black and white photography. Students learn how to use a 35mm camera, develop film, create prints and study the history of photography. In addition, the class will learn various developing techniques expanding form the basic "dodging and burning" methods to image transformation on Adobe Photoshop. At the end of each successful print the students will complete the project by presenting the image in their own unique and creative style

Note- All students are required to have a 35mm camera.

Credits: 1

 

DISTANCE LEARNING COURSES

Anthropology- An introduction to the study of Anthropology. This course is divided into three main branches: Archeology, Physical Anthropology, and Cultural Anthropology. A textbook of stories is supplemented with various other readings appropriate to the topic. This course is designed to help students with a college level introduction to Anthropology courses.

Credits: 1/2

Art History- This course is structured like a college Intro to Art History course. It includes the study of architecture, sculpture, painting and other art forms covering a time span from ancient times through the 20th Century. A textbook as well as slides, prints, and videos will be used as major resources in conjunction with some field trips.

Credits: 1

Psychology- this is an introductory course which emphasizes the basic concepts which characterize human behavior. Scientific research methods are used to study topics such as personality, intelligence, learning, motivation, sensory perception, and developmental behavior.

Credits: 1/2

Sociology- This course would provide the basic theories and fields of sociology as they relate to behavior and society’s impact on the individual. Course components would include guest speakers, daily assignments, and term papers. This is an introductory course for 11th and 12th grade students.

Credits: 1/2

AP History- This is a traditional course in American History, but with a greater emphasis on historical interpretation and development of individual writing skills and research. Upon successful completion of the Advanced Placement examination, students will be eligible for college credit and/or placement. There is a fee for taking the AP examination, which a required part of the course. The Regents exam is the final exam for the course.

Prerequisites- A grade of 90 % on the Global History Regents Examination.

Credit: 1