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Upper School students are bound by an Honor Code which supports honesty and trustworthiness in work and study. Upper School students also benefit from the guidance of College Counselors as they plan and work through their course of college preparatory work. Upper School students participate in a wide range of community service activities, both collectively and individually. With the benefit of an enrollment smaller than that of large metro high schools, many students have the opportunity to take on leadership roles in both the area of broad community service and service to the school.
English classes in the upper school build on the foundations laid in lower and middle school. Writing, grammar, reading for understanding and critical thought are concepts and masteries that are ever-evolving. When students enter the upper school English program, it is expected that they will have a working knowledge of these basic concepts, but it is only through continuing to stretch their thinking and practice their skills that they will attain the levels necessary for success at the college level. Our program offers them that opportunity. Exposure to great literature [both classical and modern] and constant attention to writing are equally important to our program. Daily writing and reflection are encouraged through the use of the Writers’ Notebook. English I This course focuses on laying a foundation of age-appropriate classical literature. Each of the four academic quarters delves into one specific area of fundamental understanding. These areas include an in-depth study of Mythology, the Bible as literature, Arthurian legend, and Shakespeare. In conjunction with the reading, students are guided in the development of critical thinking. Emphasis is placed on the development of writing skills.English II Here the emphasis is on the major American writers. Rather than focusing on specific genre, the course looks at the chronological development in literary style. Beginning with the earliest political and religious writers, instruction moves forward to include the Romantics, Transcendentalists, Naturalists, Realists, Regionalists, and finally the Contemporary writers. These different literary styles are demonstrated through short stories, poetry, novels, drama, and essays. Students are required to develop more advanced analytical and writing talents. There is emphasis on quarterly portfolio assessment, peer evaluation, self-editing, creative and expository writing, and one major research paper. The daily use of The Writers’ Notebook is fundamental to the development of writing skills.English III Junior English focuses on British writers. This curriculum also follows a chronological development. Earliest selections include Anglo-Saxon writings that led to works by Chaucer and other Medieval writers. Moving through the different ages allows the class to experience Elizabethan, Jacobean, Puritan, Restoration, Romantic, Victorian, and 20th Century writing styles. British Literature requires the student to delve into different facets of critical analysis as they develop an understanding of how literature represents the different aspects of man’s journey through life. The use of novels, short stories, essays, poetry, and drama allows students to examine how writers of different ages have expressed themselves through the written word.English IV A wide variety of contemporary literature from around the world exposes students to different thought and value systems. While this class includes British and American material, it is the first time that most students have been exposed to Eastern European writers. Students are required to make comparisons between Eastern and Western thought and writing styles. The focus of this class is an introduction to current literary thought with an emphasis on enhancing critical, and analytical skills.Advanced Placement Prerequisite: A 550 or above on the verbal SAT, an A average in previous English classes and teacher recommendations.AP English covers the same material as English IV; however, it takes the course work to a higher level. Here the focus is on genre, with emphasis on poetry, drama, and the novel. Assignments are based on expectations for student success on the AP exam given in May. In addition to class discussion and rigorous writing requirements, the students must practice their analytical, writing, and comprehension skills by taking AP practice exams. Public Speaking In an effort to better prepare our students in the area of Language Arts, all students are required to take a course in Public Speaking. This one-semester course gives the student a valid experience in the planning, writing, and delivery of public addresses commonly required in schools, community, and professional settings. Verbal and non verbal communication and listening skills are also emphasized in the course. Discussions of such topics as stage fright, topic selection, audience analysis, and gathering and organizing information also precede the presentation of the actual speeches. Additionally, the students are given opportunities to learn better communication skills in group settings, panel discussions, and storytelling. Completion of the course prepares students to create and deliver a speech appropriate to most situations.
Art The Upper School art program is designed to provide a thorough foundation in the four major disciplines of art for students of varying art backgrounds. The program provides a review of concepts introduced in previous years and an in-depth study of fundamental concepts in aesthetics, art criticism, and art history. The instructor encourages students to explore the creative potential of a variety of two and three dimensional media. All courses emphasize decision making, problem solving, and the recognition of the validity of many individual solutions to a common design problem. There is a strong emphasis on analysis and evaluation of artwork. Students work together for support and evaluation.Art I In this course, there is an increased emphasis placed on compositional and life drawing skills and perceptions. Students experiment with a variety of two and three dimensional media and are introduced to the study of human anatomy. Students will review and hone their perspective drawing skills. Emphasis is placed on the introduction and implementation of the elements and principles of design. Sketchbooks are utilized as a valuable organizational tool. There is an emphasis placed on the completion of a project from concept to finish. Teacher-led critiques are used in the teaching of aesthetics. As students are introduced to the study of art history, there is an emphasis placed on critical writing and thinking. Additionally, students will learn to present their own artwork and assist in the evaluation of their work. Students’ use of class time, management of materials, and cleanup of work area. are also considered part of the Art I course of study.Art II Prerequisite: Art I with a B- or higher or with departmental recommendation. Students will review all major concepts from Art I.In this second course, emphasis is placed on personal expression through the study of abstraction. A secondary emphasis is placed on the mastery of drawing techniques. While students are urged to pursue individual artistic directions, all students experiment with a variety of two and three dimensional media. Students will further their study of art aesthetics and evaluation by critiques of their own work. The study of art history continues in this course, building upon the work in Art I. Additionally, students will learn responsibility for their time as well as their work space. Art III/ AP Art Prerequisite: Departmental recommendation.This course is intended for serious art students who plan on having a career in the arts. They must have excellent time management skills, as most artwork will be done outside the classroom. The students will create a portfolio in both junior and senior years to be submitted to the College Board. Self-evaluation, using the established AP rubrics, and working in groups are key to success in this course. At this point, modern and contemporary art becomes the focus. Drama Drama is more than an extracurricular activity at the Heritage School, it is an academic class that involves study of the craft. Moreover, the Drama students are eligible for all Heritage productions. Students at all levels are welcome to the program.Drama I Class work revolves around the study of acting techniques, terminology, improvisation, and theatre history. Students learn how to interact naturally on stage, project their voices, and understand the idea of actor objective. Students in Drama I are eligible to participate in all productions at Heritage.Advanced Drama Prerequisite: Drama I and the recommendation of the teacher.This course continues the theories and concepts of Drama I and, in addition, explores the various playwrights of the twentieth century. Students will learn the concepts of script analysis, character development, and production design. Students are also encouraged to take on production responsibilities such as stage management, lighting design, and choreography. The students in Advanced Drama have the primary responsibility for the One Act Play competition. The Heritage School offers a complete course of study in two foreign languages, French and Spanish. French I This course is an introduction to French language and culture with an audio-lingual approach. There is emphasis on the use and understanding of the French language; basic vocabulary and expression; oral participation of the students; use of tapes for listening and recording; use of visuals, computer programs, and games; and individual projects. Students view videos of contemporary films to develop their understanding of the spoken language. There is a gradual introduction of French grammar.French II Prerequisite: French 1 or instructor approvalThis course places an emphasis on idiomatic expressions of the language. It is an audio-lingual course designed to increase the student’s ability in the use and comprehension of the spoken and written language. It leads to the completion of the study of French grammar. The instructor uses computer programs to reinforce learning. Creative work, such as compositions, research projects, and oral presentations, plays an integral role in the program. Activities also include declamation of poems, games, and casual conversation. Additionally, students examine the culture of France and the francophone countries. Videos of contemporary films further develop the student’s understanding of the spoken language. French III Prerequisite: French IIThis course consists of mastery of French grammar, practice in translating moderately difficult literary works, an emphasis on increasing the student’s proficiency in speaking, writing, individual research projects on French civilization, and study of contemporary culture through the use of magazines, creative writing, and transcriptions. A teaching video program is used to assist the student’s understanding and to further develop his speaking skills. Videos of classic literary works are also introduced to further develop the student’s understanding of the spoken language and the culture of the respective time period. The student’s analytical and writing skills are developed through composition. French IV Prerequisite: French IIIThe course places an emphasis on the art of conversation in French, with more difficult readings of selected literary works, creative and analytical writing, review of grammar, oral presentations on specific topics, debates on specific topics, and recitation. Videos of classic literary works are used to further develop both the student’s understanding of the spoken language and the culture of the respective time period. The student’s analytical and writing skills are developed through composition. French V Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation. This class is offered when demand permits.This course is a continuation of French IV. The course objective is to help students attain the optimum readiness for college language courses. French AP Language Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation. This class is offered when demand permits.This course, which places an emphasis on developing speaking and writing fluency, may enable students to obtain college credit. French AP Literature Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation. This class is offered when demand permits.Extensive reading of French novels and poetry will provide students with material for critical analysis. This course may enable students to obtain college credit. Spanish I This course is an introduction to the Spanish language and culture with an audio-lingual approach. The instructor emphasizes the use and understanding of the Spanish language, basic vocabulary and expression; oral participation of students; use of audio tape; computer software; and other resources for listening comprehension and verbalization; use of visuals, games, and individual projects. There is a gradual introduction of Spanish grammar.Spanish II Prerequisite: Spanish IThis course places an emphasis on idiomatic expressions of the language. It is an audio-lingual course, designed to increase the student’s ability in the use and comprehension of the spoken and written language. It includes creative work such as compositions, declamations of poems, and plays. It leads to the completion of the study of Spanish grammar. Spanish III Prerequisite: Spanish IIThis course is an introduction to moderately difficult Spanish literary works with a review of Spanish grammar and an emphasis on increasing the student’s proficiency in writing and speaking. The curriculum stresses creative writing. Spanish IV Prerequisite: Spanish IIIThis course consists of a survey of Spanish literature and civilization through readings of selected Spanish and Latin American works, review of Spanish grammar, and emphasis on oral expression and writing. Spanish V This course is a continuation of Spanish lV. The course objective is to help students attain the optimum readiness for college language courses.Spanish AP Language Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation. This class is offered when demand permits.This course, which places an emphasis on developing speaking and writing fluency, may enable students to obtain college credit. Middle School/Upper School Through open access to the Library/Media Center and collaboration with classroom teachers, the Media Specialist will provide assistance in the following areas:•accessing information from print, electronic, and internet resources •the research process •utilizing print and electronic periodical indexes •instruction in the use of all media equipment •evaluation of information sources for authenticity, relevancy, and accuracy •creating multimedia computer documents for research projects •organizing information •citing sources used for research papers •copyright issues
Algebra I Students examine elementary algebra and its language, which includes properties and sets of real numbers, equations and inequalities, polynomials, factoring, the coordinate plane, graphing linear equations, and introduction to radicals. Pre-requisite is Pre-Algebra. Based on a final year average of 85% or higher, students move on to geometry. Eighth grade students with less than an 85% yearly average retake Algebra I in ninth grade. Students with final year averages of 90% or higher are recommended to “double up” and take both geometry and Algebra II the next year.Geometry A basic course of Euclidean Geometry covers the following topics while intensely reviewing and using topics from Algebra I. Students will study of points, lines, planes and angles, reasoning and logic, parallels and their properties, triangles and their properties, congruent triangles and their applications, quadrilaterals, similarity, ratio and proportion, right triangles, circles, polygons, area, and perimeter, as well as polyhedron, surface area and volume, graphing, equations of lines, and the coordinate plane.Algebra II Algebra II is an extension of basic Algebra I concepts. This course incorporates a constant review of past math courses while delving into the topics listed in this discipline. Additionally, SAT preparation takes place in this course. If a student has an 85 or above and has completed an independent chapter on Conic sections he may go on to Pre-calculus; otherwise he will move to Algebra III. Topics covered are equations and inequalities, linear relations and functions and their graphs, systems of equations and inequalities, matrices, polynomials and factoring, irrational and complex numbers, quadratics, parabolas, polynomial functions, rational polynomial expressions, and exponential and logarithmic functions.Algebra III This course is designed for students who have completed Algebra II but are not quite ready for the demands of precalculus. The first semester is devoted to review of Algebra II, with an emphasis on graphing, covering advanced Algebra II topics and conics. The second semester is devoted to an introduction to trigonometry, including graphing, solving trigonometric equations, proving trigonometric identities, right triangle problems, Laws of Sine and Cosine, and the Unit Circle.Advanced Math Seminar This course is designed for “A” math students who have completed Algebra II and want to take an additional math course along with Precalculus or Calculus. This course will be taught at an advanced level and will cover topics not taught in the traditional math courses. This course will be adapted to the needs of the students in the class with an emphasis on advanced math topics, cooperative learning, the SAT, and math competitions. From time to time, outside speakers will come to address the class.Precalculus Prerequisite is an average of 88% or higher in Algebra II.This course prepares students for calculus. It includes the study of functions, graphing, derivatives of polynomials, trigonometric functions and their inverses, trigonometric identities and equations, conics, logarithmic functions, and limits. Students with a final yearly average of 88% or higher are recommended to take AP Calculus AB next year. AP Calculus AB Prerequisite: an average of 88% or higher in precalculusThis advanced placement course prepares students for college and for the Advanced Placement Exam. The curriculum includes the study of all basic concepts of calculus such as limits, derivatives of algebraic functions and their applications, definite and indefinite integrals, transcendental integrations by substitution and by parts, and volumes of revolutions and cross-sections. AP Calculus BC Prerequisite: a “3” on higher on the AP Calculus AB examThis is a second year advanced placement course designed to prepare students for college and the BC Advanced Placement Exam. The course includes the study of advanced integration including partial fractions and trigonometric substitution. Also covered are improper integrals, infinite series, power series, Tayor and MacLaurin series, parametric equations, polar equations, vectors in a plane, length of curves, and areas of surfaces of revolution. Calculus III Prerequisite: a “4” or higher on the AB or BC advanced placement calculus exam.This is a third year calculus course that can be taken after BC Calculus or at the same time. This course covers functions of several variables, vectors, partial derivatives, tangent planes, extrema of functions of more than one variable, Lagrange Multipliers, multiple integration, and cylindrical and spherical coordinates. Instrumental Ensemble Upper School students may participate in Musical Ensemble. In this performance oriented class, students perform contemporary music in a modern, rock band setting. Selections range from current radio favorites to Jazz, Blues, and other styles. All instruments are welcome as are beginners wanting to learn their first instrument.Chorus
The Upper School science program is designed to prepare students for college course work by providing an in-depth structured coverage of specific topics in the areas of biology, chemistry, and physics. Students encounter the subject matter in a sequential format beginning with the basic principles in physical science. The department places emphasis on laboratory techniques and analysis of data. Laboratory work continues the development of critical thinking skills and concept acquisition begun in the middle school science program. Biology Key concepts are explored in the sciences of microbiology, botany, zoology, and ecology which are essential to understanding biological phenomena and principles. Students will investigate the great diversity of organisms that live in their world by identifying the similarities between organisms and the biochemical concepts that support life. Laboratory work is crucial to developing an understanding of the biochemistry and the relationships between organisms.Chemistry Prerequisite: Algebra IIStudents will examine the detailed structure of matter and use laboratory investigations to demonstrate the concepts and theories which are the foundation to the study of chemistry. Topics include a study of atomic structure, bonding, types of reactions, solutions, equilibrium systems, acid-base theories, and oxidation-reduction reactions. Physics Prerequisite: Algebra IIThrough lecture and laboratory work, students will study the relationships between matter and energy. Topics include Newtonian mechanics, heat, sound, light, and electromagnetism. Students will explore the development from classical mechanics to modern physics and see the interconnections in the world of this fundamental science. Physics helps to shape analytical thinking skills and problem solving techniques. Advanced Physics Prerequisite: Must be scheduled concurrently with AP CalculusStudents will continue their study of Newtonian mechanics and modern physics topics through the addition of calculus based problems. Emphasis is placed on the use of calculus to develop an appreciation of complex physics concepts. Environmental Science Environmental Science is an interdisciplinary subject. It is a combination of geology, biology, ecology, chemistry, oceanography, and geography. The study of environmental science not only stresses scientific principles and analysis with laboratory experimentation but also emphasizes the sociological and political perspective.AP Chemistry Prerequisite: Algebra II, a minimum of 580 on the verbal section of the SAT, and permission of the instructor.The Advanced Placement Chemistry course is designed to be the equivalent of general college freshman chemistry. Through lecture and laboratory work, students will gain an in-depth understanding of the structure and state of matter, stoichiometry, gas laws, chemical equilibria, kinetics, and thermodynamics. AP Environmental Science Prerequisite: A minimum of 580 on the verbal section of the SAT and permission of the instructor.The AP Environmental Science course is designed to be the equivalent of an introductory college course in environmental science. The goal of the course is to provide students with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world, to identify and analyze environmental problems, both natural and man-made, and to evaluate solutions for resolving and preventing these problems. Laboratory work contributes to a deeper understanding of the problems we are faced with in our environment. Health and Personal Fitness In the ninth grade, Health and Fitness is required for all students to meet Georgia requirements for graduation. In this course, lifetime fitness is approached with the individual in mind. Teaching the importance of a healthy body and mind is imperative. Students are exposed to a variety of fitness concepts including: setting personal fitness goals, Yoga, Pilates, strength training, aerobic conditioning, as well as sports and games. Health issues addressed are nutrition, drugs, alcohol, sex education, Sexually Transmitted Diseases, and Aids awareness. Emphasis is placed on issues facing adolescents such as peer pressure. The curriculum includes the Georgia State Patrol Drinking and Driving Awareness Program. Students investigate legal implications of the purchase and possession of drugs and alcohol by minors.Upper School PE The Upper School physical education class is an elective course in which the focus is on team sports: including flag football, indoor soccer, basketball, team handball, and Frisbee games. The curriculum is designed to allow a continuation of physical education at the high school level. This course is taught when there is student interest and the schedule allows.Weight Training Weight training is offered to students in grades 10 – 12 as an elective course. Weight training focuses on individual physical improvement through the use of free weights, stations, and aerobic activities. Each student will develop, with the help of a supervisor, an individual work-out which will help the student reach his full potential.World History II One course in World History is required for graduation The major purpose of this course is to make available to students a survey of World History that will help them understand their own time and country and trace the origins of our particular culture. It will provide a background that will make later history courses meaningful. The course will endeavor to show the continuity of history, the influence of each era upon succeeding times, and the forces of historical cause and effect. The course is divided into four major time periods: Renaissance through the Age of Napoleon, the Romantic Period through the Industrial Revolution, Western Imperialism through World War I, and the Bolshevik Revolution to the present. Due to the vast subject amount of subject matter to be covered, certain areas will be surveyed while others will receive in-depth study. Students are also expected to be able to relate historical events to present-day events through analytical writing, debate, and research.As part of this course students will also read, discuss, and analyze the novel, All Quiet on the Western Front. The students will also be involved in a group project whose product will be a film based on a historical event.United States History One course in American History is required for graduation This course endeavors to examine and explain “the American experience”. It not only covers the facts of American history but also focuses on the decisions, both positive and negative, that affect national events. Students are expected to gain insight into the reasons behind the events and then be able to form and defend opinions.It is a survey course, meaning that all areas will be covered; however, the instructor must give some topics and events lesser emphasis, while others will receive in-depth attention and study. The approach is chronological, beginning with discovery and moving to the present. The text is essential and is supplemented with outside readings throughout the year. Students will learn to review books and articles, write essays and position papers, and construct research.AP United States History Pre-requisites: At least 550 on a verbal or writing section of the SAT or PSAT, at least a 90 average in all upper school history classes, recommendation of the Instructor. The AP program in United States History is designed to help the student develop the factual knowledge and analytical skills to deal critically with the problems in United States History. The course demands skills equal to those of the intermediate college level. Students learn to assess historical materials and to weigh the evidence presented. Developing and practicing critical thinking skills are major goals of this course The course presents the facts through primary and secondary sources. Students examine the “cause and effect” of the historical periods. There is an on-going study of historiography, stressing the historical interpretations of each period. The course requires extensive reading from the text and supplemental readings book as well as weekly reviews of the works of major historians.American Government and Economics These semester courses are required for graduation In the American Government portion of this course, students focus on our national constitution, the United States political system, organs of our government, federalism, and the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of government. Students explore economics through a variety of hands-on and technological methods. The course emphasizes microeconomic concepts relating to supply and demand in the free enterprise system. Topics to be covered include scarcity, opportunity costs, economic systems, business organizations, supply, demand, price structures, cost analysis, competition, market structures, and the role of government.”AP European History Pre-requisites: At least 550 on a verbal or writing section of the SAT or PSAT, at least a 90 average in all upper school history classes, recommendation of the Instructor. The AP European course is designed much like the AP United States History course. It provides a comprehensive view of the origins of western civilizations to the present. It is a vast undertaking and should be considered only by those students who have an adequate background in World History. The course, of necessity, moves rapidly through the material and time periods. In order to master the material, students must do considerable outside reading. The course is designed with the teacher as facilitator to assist the student in his course of study.Psychology This course is an introduction to the theories, methodology, the origins, and current direction of the study of the brain and the mind. Included are principles and applications of learning, memory and thought, brain physiology and function, the psychology of childhood, adolescents, adulthood and aging, altered states of consciousness, adjustment to society, and theories of personality. Students examine and discuss the theories of Freud, Jung, Pavlov, Skinner, Maslow, and other theorists of the sciences. Further, they study the psychology of the abnormal and the healthy. The phenomena of stress, anxiety, breakdown, adjustment, creativity, and man’s search for a higher calling create the center of the course.AP Psychology Pre-requisites: At least 550 on a verbal or writing section of the SAT or PSAT, at least a 90 average in all upper school history classes, recommendation of the Instructor. The purpose of the Advanced Placement Psychology course is to introduce students to the systematic and scientific study of the behavior and mental processes of human beings and other animals. Major topics in the AP course include the following: methods, approaches, and history; biological bases of behavior; sensation and perception; states of consciousness; learning; cognition; motivation and emotion; developmental psychology; personality; testing and individual differences; psychological disorders and treatments; and social psychology.Computer Applications Part of the technology curriculum includes the ethical issues involving computer use, copyright policies, and the impact of technology in society. Students must demonstrate proper keyboarding techniques and be able to touch type 25 - 30 words per minute with 90% accuracy. They practice and refine knowledge and skills in keyboarding, word processing, desktop publishing, spreadsheets, databases, multi-media and telecommunications. They learn to select and use technology tools to efficiently collect, analyze, and display data. They develop multimedia presentations and webpages to present research reports and term papers. Students learn to show competency in Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Powerpoint, Microsoft Publisher, Microsoft Word, and the Internet.Advanced Computer Prerequisite: An A in computer applications and a recommendation from the technology teacher.This is a course offered to computer literate students who wish to go beyond basic courses. It is driven by student interest and in the past has included HTML, computer hardware, and web design. It includes assisting other students and teachers with hardware and software problems, building and maintaining computers, serving as tech support, and maintaining the school’s web site. Our most recent curriculum additions have been two elective courses in visual arts. They are semester courses that give a number of students the opportunity to expand on their artistic, organizational, and technological skills to create unique productions. Graphic Design I Available to recommended upper school students The primary goal of the class is to improve critical thinking skills as students are taught the elements and principles of design. Each assignment is analyzed in depth from the beginning concept to the finished art. Students access and critique each other’s work. Exposure to contemporary graphic design in all forms is ongoing. Students work on a variety of skill- enhancing exercises while developing the more in-depth assignments. Examples include creating a logo and using it in various ways and designing a product label and constructing a package prototype. Students are expected to verbally present their ideas as they might to an actual client. Two or three major projects are completed per quarter. A portfolio of professionally presented work is developed by year end. The secondary goal of the class is to provide an introduction into a technical field that might be a future career opportunity. Working professionals are invited to the classroom throughout the year.Graphic Design II Available to students who have taken Graphic Design I or to those who have a comparable portfolio of samples This class expands upon the skills introduced the year before. The students are expected to work in collaboration on several projects as they would if working for a design firm. Advertising campaigns are developed as part of the curriculum. Field trips and visiting artists are scheduled throughout the year. Students maintain a sketchbook of design solutions. Three or more major projects are completed each quarter. The portfolio compiled by the end of the course is expected to be of professional quality, suitable for presenting to art schools for admission or for seeking employment as a graphic artist.Video In this course, students will be instructed, using a hands-on approach, in the creative and technical aspects of producing finished digital video projects. Students will use state-of-the-art Apple computers and will be instructed in the use of iMovie, iDVD, iTunes, iPhoto, Final Cut Pro, Garage Band, and Soundtrack. |