PROGRAM
OF
STUDIES
2022-2023
Dover-Sherborn High School
9 Junction Street
Dover, MA 02030
Phone: 508-785-1730 Fax: 508-785-8141
John Smith Ellen Chagnon
Pricipal Director of Guidance
Ann Dever-Keegan Emily Sullivan
Assistant Principal Athletic Director
The Public Schools of Dover and Sherborn do not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, sex/gender, gender identity, religion, national
origin, sexual orientation, disability, or homelessness.
January 2022
Dear Dover-Sherborn Students,
The full range of courses offered at Dover-Sherborn High School is included in this Program of
Studies. I recommend that you review options with your teachers, school counselors, and parents
or guardians, and make informed decisions that will serve you well. All requests for course
placement reviews must be completed in writing by April 29, 2022. All scheduling decisions must
be completed by May 1, 2022 for the 2022-2023 school year. The decisions as of May 1, 2022 will
prevail in the fall. If you or your parents have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to
ask your teachers, department heads, or your school counselors for assistance and advice. They
can help you devise a long-range plan and alleviate any angst related to the course selection
process.
When making choices, keep in mind the requirements for graduation that are listed in this
publication, and pay close attention to any prerequisites that might exist for courses. Additionally,
please consider the homework expectations for each course you select. Information on
homework expectations can be reviewed on page 18. Remember to choose alternatives for
electives and list those on your course selection sheet in the appropriate section. If you are
unable to secure your first choice because of space or other scheduling issues, every effort will be
made to enroll you in one of your alternate selections.
During your four years at the high school, I urge you to take advantage of the opportunity to select
a variety of courses, to take an online course through the TEC Connections Learning, and to avail
yourself of the athletic and extracurricular activities that are offered. You might discover a new
interest.
I hope that you find your choice of courses intellectually stimulating. I wish you success in your
studies.
Sincerely,
John Smith
Principal
DOVER-SHERBORN HIGH SCHOOL MISSION STATEMENT
Dover-Sherborn High School is a community of learners
whose goal is to inspire academic excellence and
a commitment to personal and civic responsibility.
We engage in the learning process with honesty, creativity, dedication, and respect,
and seek to cultivate an atmosphere of freedom and trust
in a safe and nurturing environment.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNERS
Students and parents who are not able to read or communicate in English are asked to notify
the Principal. School staff will make arrangements for all relevant information in this booklet to
be available in the family‘s primary language.
NON-DISCRIMINATION STATEMENT
The Dover Sherborn Public Schools do not discriminate in admission to, access to, treatment in,
or employment in its services, programs, activities, on the basis of race, color, or origin, in
accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VI); on the basis of sex, in
accordance with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972: on the basis of disability, in
accordance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504) and Titles I and II of
the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA); or on the basis of age, in accordance with the
Age Discrimination Act of 1974 (Age Discrimination Act). Furthermore, in accordance with
M.G.L. c.76 s.5 Dover, Sherborn, and Dover Sherborn Schools do not exclude or discriminate
against students in admission or in obtaining its advantages, privileges, or courses of study on
the basis of age, race, color, sex/gender, gender identity, religion, national origin, sexual
orientation, disability or homelessness.
Disclaimer
As counseling services and publications within the Dover Sherborn Public Schools are free from
bias and stereotypes on the basis of age, race, color, sex/gender, gender identity, religion,
national origin, sexual orientation, disability or homelessness, all counselors encourage
students to consider programs of study, courses, extracurricular activities, and occupational
opportunities on the basis of individual interests, abilities, and skills.
BULLYING & CYBERBULLYING
The Dover Sherborn Schools are committed to maintaining a school environment where
students are free from bullying, including cyber-bullying. Cyber-bullying is bullying through
the use of computers, or other technology or electronic devices such as telephones, cell
phones, computers, and the Internet. It includes, but is not limited to sending mean/threatening
email, instant messages, text messages and mean/threatening Internet postings. See M.G.L.c.
71, § 37O for the legal definition of cyber bullying.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
GENERAL INFORMATION
Portrait of a Graduate 5
Parents/Guardians as Partners 6
Program of Studies 6
School-Wide Expectations for Student Learning 6
School-Wide Rubrics 9
Summary of Graduation Requirements 15
Course Levels of Instruction 18
Course Registration Process 20
Course Change Procedures 23
National Honor Society 27
World Language Honor Society 27
Massachusetts State Seal of Biliteracy 27
Global Citizenship Program 28
Eligibility for Extra Curricular Activities 28
NCAA Clearing House 29
Guidance 29
Standardized Testing Information 30
Suggested Course of Study for Post Secondary Education 32
DEPARTMENTS
English 34
Fine & Performing Arts 47
Mathematics 58
Science 71
Social Studies 82
Technology Engineering & Computer Science 90
Wellness 100
World Language 109
Special Programs 122
5
PORTRAIT OF A DOVER SHERBORN GRADUATE
6
PARENTS/GUARDIANS AS PARTNERS
Our goal is to work in partnership with parent/guardians. Essential to this effort is effective
communication among parent/guardians and the school. Using frequent written communication
as a starting point, we wish to convey to parent/guardians our willingness to engage in
conversation on a regular basis. Parent/guardians should always feel free to call or e-mail
faculty and staff and to be in regular contact with the school about a student‘s progress or
concerns. From our end, we will expect your participation and support. You are your child‘s
most important teachers and role models.
PROGRAM OF STUDIES
Dover-Sherborn High School has a broad curriculum encompassing the following disciplines:
English, world language, mathematics, science, social studies, physical education and health,
living, fine and technical arts, and educational technologies. Extracurricular activities offer
opportunities for involvement in athletics, clubs, student performances, and student government.
The curriculum and program of studies promote independence of thought and action. It is our
goal to help students to develop an individual voice and perspective. Students learn how to be
effective communicators. In addition, students are exposed to a variety of opportunities that
allow for creativity, cooperative learning, and constructive critiquing of fellow students‘ work.
SCHOOL-WIDE EXPECTATIONS FOR STUDENT LEARNING
ACADEMIC EXPECTATIONS
Dover-Sherborn graduates will demonstrate the ability to:
1. Read effectively
2. Write effectively
3. Speak effectively
4. Solve problems effectively
5. Design and create effectively
6. Perform Effectively
CIVIC EXPECTATIONS
Dover-Sherborn graduates will demonstrate the following:
1. Civic responsibility by:
accepting the role of an individual in a democratic society
a. Students participate during town meetings.
b. Students participate in election speech assemblies.
c. Students vote in class, school and club elections.
actively participating in school
a. Students participate as members of classes, clubs, teams and other
organizations.
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adhering to school policies
a. Students arrive at school on time.
b. Students do not engage in behavior that leads to disciplinary referrals,
detentions and/or suspensions.
c. Students demonstrate respect for the entire staff.
serving the community
a. Students complete ten hours of community service per year enrolled at Dover-
Sherborn.
b. Students organize projects, such as fundraisers, charity drives and tutoring,
either individually or as members of a club or organization.
2. A global perspective by:
identifying links, commonalities, and differences among world cultures
a. Students organize and participate in American Field Service weekend.
b. Students organize and participate in the China Exchange.
c. There is a focus on interdisciplinary study and diversifying the curriculum.
d. All students are provided with the opportunity to increase their global
perspective through a three-year history requirement.
e. Students are given the opportunity to increase their global perspective through
―History Night at the Movies.‖
f. All freshmen are given the opportunity to participate in the Arab Banquet that
allows them to foster an appreciation of Arab cultures.
demonstrating the ability to communicate in a language other than English
a. Student must fulfill a three-year language requirement.
b. State and national testing are evidence of the rigor of this program.
recognizing their role as world citizens
a. Students donate time and money to various global organizations.
b. Students participate in the World Challenge Program.
c. Students participate in work camps.
d. Students participate in American Field Services.
SOCIAL EXPECTATIONS
Dover-Sherborn graduates will demonstrate the following:
1. Respect for individuals, school and community by:
adhering to school policies
a. Students follow the policies stated in the Student Handbook.
b. Students do not engage in behavior that leads to infractions and discipline
slips.
practicing common courtesy
a. Students are respectful of one another in class and during unstructured time.
b. Students demonstrate respect to visitors to the school.
c. Student athletes demonstrate good sportsmanship.
practicing safe behavior
a. Safe behavior is promoted through school programs such as: Peer Helping,
Mindfulness Group, and SADD.
b. Students appropriately seek out guidance counselors and nurses.
c. Students demonstrate proper use of school equipment while using school
facilities.
maintaining a clean facility
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a. Students leave the cafeteria clean after break and lunches.
b. Students maintain a graffiti-free environment.
c. Students clean up their belongings in classrooms, from locker rooms and
athletic fields, and from the grounds and other common areas.
2. Responsibility for their behavior by:
investing in their education
a. Students do not engage in behavior that leads to deficiency reports.
b. Students who have received deficiency reports return the reports signed by
parent/guardian(s).
c. Students who have received deficiency reports regularly attend extra help
sessions.
d. Students have regular attendance and are punctual.
e. Students participate in co-curricular organizations.
acting with integrity
a. Students do not engage in cheating and/or plagiarism.
b. Students do not violate the school‘s Internet Use policy.
accepting consequences of their actions
a. Students attend scheduled detentions.
3. Sensitivity to diversity of opinions, abilities, learning styles, lifestyles, and cultures by:
fostering supportive relationships
a. Students do not engage in hate speech.
b. Students do not engage in bullying and/or harassment.
practicing respectful disagreement
a. Students listen respectfully to the views of others and express differences of
opinions appropriately.
b. Students do not engage in fighting on campus and at school events.
c. Participants and fans demonstrate sportsmanlike conduct during all athletic
events.
d. Fans, student athletes and coaches consistently demonstrate appropriate
behavior at all school events.
4. The ability to work collaboratively by:
assuming productive roles
a. Students plan class and school events.
b. Students participate in Student Council.
c. Students actively participate as members of clubs and athletic teams, and may
seek roles of leadership such as class and club officers or athletic captains.
d. Students are involved in Peer Helping.
e. Students participate in drama productions.
f. Students work productively during group activities in class.
interacting cooperatively
a. Students work effectively as team members to complete group projects.
b. Students work collaboratively to organize school-wide initiatives and events.
c. Students demonstrate cooperation through their behavior during classroom
activities, meetings of clubs, and sports events.
achieving shared goals
a. Students complete short and long-term group projects in classes.
b. Students contribute to the success of drama productions, activities, fundraisers,
and service projects.
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SCHOOL WIDE RUBRICS
ACADEMIC:
Reading
Performance Levels for
Academic Expectations
Read effectively
4 Work Consistently
Exceeds
Expectations
Insightfully and consistently summarizes and analyzes literal and inferential meaning
Insightfully and consistently makes connections among texts and applies acquired
knowledge outside the text
Reaches insightful conclusions involving critical elements of the text(s)
3 Work Meets
Expectations
Proficiently summarizes and analyzes literal and inferential meaning
Generally makes relevant connections among texts and/or to the world outside the text
Distinguishes the critical elements of the text(s).
2 Work Sometimes
Meets Expectations
Recognizes and summarizes literal meanings
Sometimes makes relevant connections among texts and/or to the world outside text
Distinguishes some critical elements of the text(s)
1 Work Rarely or Never
Meets Expectations
Recognizes literal meanings
Rarely or never makes relevant connections among texts and /or to the world outside text
Distinguishes almost none of the critical elements of the text(s)
10
Writing
Performance Levels for
Academic Expectations
Write effectively
4 Work Consistently
Exceeds
Expectations
Displays clear and insightful focus
Displays sophisticated and/or original organization
Consistently uses specific, relevant and accurate details as well as insightfully develops topic
Displays exemplary command of language conventions
Uses rich, precise vocabulary and sophisticated syntax
3 Work Meets
Expectations
Displays clear and appropriate focus
Displays logical and appropriate organization
Generally uses relevant and accurate details and thoroughly develops topic
Demonstrates fluency in standard conventions of language
Makes effective use of vocabulary and displays sentence variety
2 Work Sometimes
Meets Expectations
Displays somewhat clear and generally appropriate focus
Displays some evidence of organization
Uses some relevant and accurate details but has limited development of topic
Demonstrates inconsistent grasp of standard conventions of language
Sometimes makes effective use of vocabulary and syntax
1 Work Rarely or Never
Meets Expectations
Displays somewhat clear and generally appropriate focus
Displays some evidence of organization
Uses some relevant and accurate details but has limited development of topic
Demonstrates inconsistent grasp of standard conventions of language
Sometimes makes effective use of vocabulary and syntax
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Speaking
Performance Levels for
Academic Expectations
Speak effectively
4 Work Consistently
Exceeds
Expectations
Displays exemplary command of subject
Delivers with exemplary confidence, fluency, and poise/presence
Masterfully and consistently engages listeners by establishing focus, tone, volume, and style
appropriate for audience
Displays exemplary articulation/command of language conventions
Makes exemplary use of visuals/props/technology to convey meaning
3 Work Meets
Expectations
Displays command of subject
Delivers confidently and fluently
Generally engages listeners by establishing focus, tone, volume, and style appropriate for
audience
Displays clear articulation/command of language conventions
Makes appropriate use of visuals/props/technology to convey meaning
2 Work Sometimes
Meets Expectations
Displays limited command of subject
Delivers with limited confidence and fluency
Occasionally engages listeners by establishing focus, tone, volume, and style appropriate
for audience
Displays somewhat unclear articulation/command of language conventions
Makes limited use of visuals/props/technology to convey meaning
1 Work Rarely or Never
Meets Expectations
Displays little or no command of subject
Delivers with little or no confidence or fluency
Rarely or never engages listeners
Displays inadequate articulation/command of language conventions
Makes little or no use of visuals/props/technology to convey meaning
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Problem Solving
Performance Levels for
Academic Expectations
Solve problems effectively
4 Work Consistently
Exceeds
Expectations
Solution shows a complete understanding of the problem, identifying appropriate concepts and the
information necessary for its solution
Uses an efficient and sophisticated strategy to reach solution, evaluating any errors made and
revising the strategy for future investigation
Employs refined and complex reasoning, applying procedures accurately and verifying the results
Includes a complete and logical explanation detailing how the problem is solved, including all of the
steps involved
Follows standard conventions of writing; uses precise and appropriate terminology and symbols
3 Work Meets
Expectations
Solution shows an understanding of the problem, identifying major concepts and the information
necessary for its solution
Uses a strategy that leads to a solution of the problem, making few or no errors
Employs proficient reasoning, applying procedures appropriately
Includes a clear explanation of how the problem is solved, detailing most of the steps involved
Generally follows standard conventions of writing; generally uses appropriate terminology and
Symbols
2 Work Sometimes
Meets Expectations
Solution shows limited understanding.
Uses a strategy that approaches a solution, making some errors that prevent a complete solution
Employs some effective reasoning, sometimes applying procedures appropriately
Includes an incomplete explanation that may not be clearly presented
Inconsistently follows standard conventions of writing; uses terminology and symbols
inappropriately or fails to use them
1 Work Rarely or Never
Meets Expectations
Solution shows that few or no parts of the problem are understood
Uses no strategy or a strategy that does not lead to a solution
Employs little or no reasoning, making many procedural errors
Includes no explanation or an explanation that is not understandable or related to the problem
Rarely follows standard conventions of writing; uses no appropriate terminology or symbols
13
Designing and Creating
Performance Levels for
Academic Expectations
Design and create effectively
4 Work Consistently
Exceeds
Expectations
Insightfully and consistently uses varied sources of inspiration
Accepts or rejects ideas after insightful and consistent analysis or evaluation of them
Insightfully and consistently directs a course of action based upon conclusions
Insightfully and consistently relates ideas and applies imagination and
conscientiousness to presentations/performances/construction
Demonstrates insightful perspective in the application and presentation of ideas
3 Work Meets
Expectations
Proficiently uses varied sources of inspiration
Accepts or rejects ideas after thorough analysis or evaluation of them
Proficiently directs a course of action based upon conclusions
Proficiently relates ideas and applies imagination and
conscientiousness to presentations/performances/construction
Demonstrates informed perspective in the application and presentation of ideas
2 Work Sometimes
Meets Expectations
Makes limited use of varied sources of inspiration
Accepts or rejects ideas after limited analysis and evaluation of them
Inconsistently or inappropriately directs a course of action based upon conclusions
Usually relates ideas and applies imagination and
conscientiousness to presentations/performances/construction
Demonstrates somewhat informed perspective in the application and presentation of ideas
1 Work Rarely or Never
Meets Expectations
Makes little or no use of varied sources of inspiration
Accepts or rejects ideas after little or no analysis or evaluation of them
Does not direct a course of action based upon conclusions
Needs assistance to relate ideas and apply imagination and
conscientiousness to presentations/performances/construction
Demonstrates uninformed perspective in the application and presentation of ideas
14
Performing
Performance Levels for
Academic Expectations
Perform effectively
4 Work Consistently
Exceeds
Expectations
Consistently demonstrates evidence of thorough preparation/rehearsal
Consistently demonstrates exemplary technical skill, technique, and/or physical prowess
Performs dynamically and confidently
Achieves and sustains unity of role and performer
Uses appropriate props, attire, and/or equipment to full effect
Consistently demonstrates ability to work independently and/or cooperatively/collaboratively, as
appropriate to task
Consistently demonstrates ability to analyze and reflect insightfully on performance
3 Work Meets
Expectations
Demonstrates clear evidence of preparation/rehearsal
Generally demonstrates technical skill, technique, and/or physical prowess
Performs confidently
Achieves unity of role and performer
Uses appropriate props, attire, and/or equipment
Generally demonstrates ability to work independently and/or cooperatively/collaboratively, as
appropriate to task
Demonstrates ability to analyze and reflect on performance
2 Work Sometimes
Meets Expectations
Demonstrates limited evidence of preparation/rehearsal
Sometimes demonstrates technical skill, technique, and/or physical prowess
Performs perfunctorilywithout enthusiasm
Approaches unity of role and performer
Uses some props, attire, and/or equipment
Demonstrates limited ability to work independently and/or cooperatively/collaboratively, as appropriate
to task
Demonstrates limited ability to analyze and reflect on performance
1 Work Rarely or Never
Meets Expectations
Demonstrates little or no evidence of preparation/rehearsal
Demonstrates little or no technical skill, technique, and/or physical prowess
Performs inadequately
Displays disunity of role and performer
Uses inappropriate or inadequate props, attire, and/or equipment
Demonstrates little or no ability to work independently and/or cooperatively/collaboratively, as
appropriate to task
Demonstrates little or no ability to analyze and reflect on performance
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SUMMARY OF GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
COVID-19 College Statement
2021-2022 School Year:
Dover-Sherborn has returned to in-person learning, 5 days a week. We will publish interim
grades in late October and first semester grades in early February.
2020-2021 School Year:
For the 2020-2021 school year, Dover Sherborn High School opted to follow a hybrid model of
education. Students attended school in-person for two days each week and learned remotely for
three days. Standard letter grades were given, though students did not take midyear or final
exams. To accommodate a later start of the school year, we adjusted our overall semester
grades to reflect a running average of work done each semester. Final grades for the year were
calculated by weighting each grade as follows: Semester 1 (50%), Semester 2 (50%).
2019-2020 School Year:
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Dover Sherborn High School shifted to remote learning on
Friday, March 13, 2020. Standard letter grades were given for Quarters 1 and 2 and,
subsequently, Semester 1. A letter grade was also given for Quarter 3, representing only the in-
person portion of the second semester. Fourth quarter was graded on a Pass/Fail basis. Final
grades for the year were calculated by weighting each grade as follows: Semester 1 (72%),
Quarter 3 (18%), Quarter 4 (10%).
According to The Massachusetts Educational Reform Act of 1993, students must be engaged in
learning throughout the school day. In order to ensure this, students choose a minimum of at
least 36 credits but not more than 45 credits per year. All students must earn 140 credits to
graduate as well as satisfy all other graduation requirements including state graduation
examinations. Monitoring credits and meeting graduation requirements are the responsibility of
each student and his or her parent/guardian.
All students must pass and earn the following credits as part of the 140 credits required
for graduation:
English Four years 24.0 credits
Mathematics Four years 24.0 credits
Science Three years 18.0 credits
Social Studies Three years consisting of 18.0 credits
World History and U.S. History
World Language Three years 18.0 credits
Technology Engineering & Computer Science, 18.0 credits
Fine & Performing Arts
Wellness 12.5 credits
9th Grade: One semester of Phys Ed (P.E.) (2.5 credits)
One semester of Health (2.5 credits)
10th Grade: Two semesters of P.E (3.0 credits)
11th Grade: Two semesters of P.E (3.0 credits)
12th Grade: One semester of P.E (1.5 credits)
Community Service 40 hours
Earn a passing score in all MCAS Graduation/Competency Determination
requirements as outlined in order to earn a diploma.
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Please consult the Student Handbook for information about credit requirements as they
relate to participation in student activities.
MCAS
Pass ELA, Math, and Science within the following structure:
ELA & Math
Subject
Classes of 2021 and 2022
Class of 2023
Option 1
Option 2
Option 1
Option 2
ELA
Earn a
score of
472 or
higher
Successful completion of a
relevant high school course
(Refer to the links provided
above for details of the
temporary modification of the
CD requirements.)
Earn a
score of
472 or
higher
Earn a score between 455
and 471 sand
Fulfill the requirements of an
Educational Proficiency Plan
(which will be implemented
in the 2021-22 school year)
Math
Earn a
score of
486 or
higher
Successful completion of a
relevant high school course
(Refer to the links provided
above for details.)
Earn a
score of
486 or
higher
Earn a score between 469
and 485 and Fulfill the
requirements of an
Educational Proficiency Plan
(which will be implemented
in the 2021-22 school year)
Science (STE)
Subject
Class of 2020
Classes of 20212023
Class
of 2024
Option 1
Option 2
Option 1
Option 2
STE
Earn a score
of 220 or
higher (for
students who
took an STE
test in
February 2020
or earlier)
Successful
completion of a
relevant high
school course
(Refer to the April
29, 2020 Update,
provided above,
for details.)
Earn a score
of 220 or
higher (for
students who
took an STE
test in
February 2020
or earlier)
Successful
completion of a
relevant high
school course
(Refer to the May
26, 2020 Update,
provided above,
for details.)
Earn a
score
of 220
or
higher
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Educational Proficiency Plans (EPPs)
An EPP must be developed for any student who does not meet or exceed the Proficient level (a
minimum scaled score of 240) or next-generation equivalent on the grade 10 ELA and/or
Mathematics tests.
Each EPP includes, at a minimum:
a review of the student's strengths and weaknesses, based on MCAS and other
assessment results, coursework, grades, and teacher input;
the courses the student will be required to take and successfully complete in grades 11
and 12; and
a description of the assessments the school will administer on a regular basis to
determine whether the student is moving toward Proficiency.
The EPP is not required for students in the classes of 20202022, who are eligible for the
modified CD. It will be required in the school year 20212022 for subsequent classes.
MINIMUM SAMPLE SCHEDULE
Grade 9 Credits
English I 6
Math 6
Science 6
World History I 6
World Language 6
Technology Engineering, & Computer
Science, Fine & Performing Arts 3-6
Phys Ed & Health (2 sem) 5
Grade 10 Credits
English II 6
Math 6
Science 6
World History II 6
World Language 6
Technology Engineering, & Computer
Science, Fine & Performing Arts,
and other Electives 6
Phys Ed & Health (2 sem) 3
Grade 11 Credits
English 6
Math 6
Science 6
US History 6
World Language 6
Technology Engineering, & Computer
Science, Fine & Performing Arts
and Other Electives 6
Phys Ed & Health (2 sem) 3
Grade 12 Credits
English 6
Math 6
Science 6
Social Studies 6
World Language 6
Technology Engineering, & Computer
Science, Fine & Performing Arts
and Other Electives 3-6
Phys Ed & Health (1 sem) 1.5
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CREDIT ALLOCATIONS
Full year courses that meet six days out of the eight day rotation are worth six credits. One
semester courses that meet six days out of the eight day rotation are worth three credits. Yearlong
courses that meet three days out of the eight day rotation are worth 3 credits. The credit allocations
for each course listed in the Program of Studies are noted in the course description.
Please note: In the 2020-2021 school year, credit allocations remained the same but the delivery of
instruction moved to a hybrid model. The 8 day rotation moved to a weekly 5 day schedule and
courses met for longer periods.
The credit awarded to transfer students for courses completed at an accredited institution prior to
their enrollment at Dover-Sherborn High School will be adapted as appropriate to be comparable to
the credit system of Dover-Sherborn High School
Course Waiver: The Principal has the authority to waive the completion of graduation course
requirements when scheduling difficulties arise. Regardless of any action approved by the Principal,
students are still required to complete a minimum of 140 credits to graduate.
TRANSITION FROM FRESHMAN TO SOPHOMORE STATUS
To attain sophomore status by the beginning of the next academic year, freshmen must earn 6
credits in mathematics and 6 credits in English, plus 12 additional credits. Credits are earned by
passing a course with a numeric grade of 65% (D) or above.
Parent/guardians will be notified by the teachers and Guidance Department if their son or daughter
is in danger of not passing which could affect sophomore status for the next academic year.
This policy has been adopted to support Dover-Sherborn's high academic expectations and in
response to Massachusetts Education Reform initiatives.
CREDIT RECOVERY
If a student fails a course that is required for graduation with a grade of 55 or above, he or she is
eligible for credit recovery through a recommended remedial course taken outside of Dover
Sherborn High School. If a student fails a course required for graduation with a grade below a 55,
he or she must retake the full course at Dover Sherborn High School or through a pre-approved
program.
In keeping with the school's policy, no more than 2 courses in a student's overall high school career
may be taken in summer school or earned from another institution while enrolled at DS. Any course
taken outside of DS for credit toward graduation requirements must receive the prior approval of
the Principal. Approval is based upon review of the course curriculum and consultation with the
appropriate Department Head. Credit will not be granted until an official transcript with a passing
grade is received from the approved program. Additional courses are decided at the Principal‘s
discretion.
COURSE LEVELS OF INSTRUCTION
Levels are classified as Advanced Placement, Honors, and College Preparatory. Although much of
the subject matter in different levels is similar, these courses differ in the depth of content and the
pace of presentation. The Advanced Placement and Honors level courses are designed for
19
students who have clearly demonstrated significantly high achievement in previous courses within
the same or related discipline. Some courses have combined levels of Honors and College
Preparatory credit.
Students are assigned to appropriate levels in each subject and may move from one level to
another when recommended by their subject teacher. Level assignments are determined after
careful consideration is given to the student‘s performance to date, along with past and present
teacher recommendations.
AP COURSES
Dover-Sherborn offers a wide variety of Advanced Placement (AP) courses. These courses are
very rigorous and follow a specific College Board based curriculum to prepare students to take the
AP examinations or submit portfolio assessments that are given in May. Some colleges consider
data from these AP tests/assessments for placement purposes and potential college credits. In
order for AP weight to be factored in to a student’s GPA, the student must take the
Advanced Placement Examination. If the student does not choose to complete the
assessment, the student may remain in the course and take it for Honors weighting. Because
of the nature of Advanced Placement classes and the commitment to a standardized assessment,
final examinations for seniors in AP courses are up to the discretion of the teacher. Students in
Advanced Placement courses who are not seniors are expected to sit for a final examination,
unless otherwise approved by the Principal.
HONORS COURSES investigate some topics in greater depth than the corresponding College
Preparatory courses.
COLLEGE PREPARATORY COURSES, if passed satisfactorily, provide the requirements needed
to pursue higher education in the academic and vocational fields.
HOMEWORK POLICY
Many teachers have class notes and homework available on their websites for parent/guardians
and students to consult as often as necessary. When selecting courses, parent/guardians and
students should be mindful of the amount of homework generally required. Homework will vary
according to level and course, but the faculty has agreed to the following as a standard: students
should expect, on average, to spend 30-45 minutes each night doing homework for each CP or
Honors class, and 45-60 minutes for an AP class and homework will not count more than twenty
(20) percent of a term grade.
No homework shall be assigned over Thanksgiving break. Additionally, no homework shall be
assigned over winter break, February vacation, or April vacation except in Advanced Placement
courses. AP courses may assign limited reading that is essential for course content.
Major projects or papers due the week after vacation will not be due within the first two days
following the resumption of school.
ELECTIVE COURSES
Some specified courses, generally designed to complete graduation requirements, may also be
selected as electives. When a student requests one of these courses as an elective course, the
course is assigned on a space-available basis.
AUDITING A COURSE FOR ENRICHMENT
A student may request to audit additional courses if there is sufficient space. The student will be
expected to do all work and to take all tests and examinations. The course will appear on the final
transcript marked ‗Audit‘ with no grade or credit toward graduation.
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COURSE REGISTRATION PROCESS
In January, the Program of Studies will be available on the high school website for students and
families to review and begin planning for the 2022-2023 academic year. Families are encouraged
to read course descriptions and requirements carefully and to consult with the school in advance of
the school deadlines should any questions or concerns arise.
AVAILABILITY OF COURSES
The Program of Studies offers a wide variety of courses. Staffing decisions are made in light of
student course requests and available resources. Low enrollment or staffing constraints may result
in the cancellation of courses and/or sections of courses. Courses may also be closed due to
maximum enrollment capacity. When enrollment has reached a maximum, preference will be given
to juniors and seniors. The school reserves the right to consult students‘ alternate course requests
when courses are cancelled, closed or when course conflicts arise.
MINIMUM COURSE LOAD
Students must choose courses generating a total of at least 36 but not more than 45 credits per
year. This is a requirement every year, regardless of whether graduation requirements have been
satisfied. Seniors must maintain a full academic schedule consisting of five full year academic
subjects, PE and 3.0 additional credits.
CURRENT HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
In January, students and parents/guardians will receive emails regarding the course request
process. Students are encouraged to speak with teachers regarding course choices for the
following school year. At the beginning of March, teachers will make online recommendations
regarding student course levels (CP, Honors, AP) for courses in mathematics, English, world
language, science and social studies as well as any other courses requiring teacher
recommendation as stated in the Program of Studies.
Beginning January 20, 2022 through noon on March 21, 2022, students will select desired courses
in the Fine & Performing Arts and/or Technology Engineering & Computer Science as well as select
other elected courses and enter these requests into their Aspen Student Account. Access to the
Aspen Student Account Course Request window will be closed at noon on March 21, 2022.
A couple of weeks after the student request window has closed, a Course Request form will be
generated in Aspen containing student course requests along with teacher recommendations for
courses in mathematics, English, world language, science and social studies. Students will be
scheduled for an individual appointment with their school counselor between March 22 and
April 4
to review completed course requests and teacher recommendations. Any necessary
additions or adjustments may be discussed during this appointment
Beginning on April 5, 2022, students and parents/guardians will have access to the Course Request
form in Aspen. Parents must sign off electronically in Aspen on the Course Request Form by
April 14, 2022 in order for student courses to be scheduled. Forms signed off on after April
14, 2022 may result in delay of scheduling and course availability. All level changes in
mathematics, English, world language, science and social studies must have teacher and
parent/guardian approval.
NOTE: Parent/Guardian signature in Aspen on the Course Request Form indicates that
parents/guardians have read the Program of Studies document, understand its contents, the
requirements of courses recommended and requested, and agree to the course program as listed
on this form. Parents/Guardians who wish to discuss a child's recommended course or level, should
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contact the subject teacher for clarification. All scheduling change requests must be put in writing
by April 29, 2022 and decisions must be completed by May 1, 2022. The decisions as of May 1st
will be final for the 2022-2023 school year. Final course offerings are based on teacher
recommendations, student requests and on budgetary funding.
INCOMING FRESHMEN
Eighth grade teachers will recommend the appropriate course level in each subject for incoming
ninth grade students. Course level placements are the result of the teachers‘ best professional
judgment after working daily with the student and after reviewing the placement standards agreed
to by the middle and high school staff. Parents/guardians may request to meet with the student‘s
subject teacher to better understand the teacher‘s decision.
Beginning in January and early February, informational emails regarding the course request
process for incoming freshmen will be sent to parents/guardians. During this time, incoming
freshmen (eighth grade students) will receive a print copy of the 2022-2023 Program of Studies and
they will be asked to take the booklet home to share with their parents/guardians.
In late January/early February, eighth grade students will meet with members of the high school
counseling team, along with their school counselor, to learn how to access their Aspen Student
Account, and receive information on requesting their desired course choices in the Fine &
Performing Art and Technology Engineering & Computer Science. They will also be provided with
an overview of the transition from middle school to high school. An informational email will also be
sent home to parents/guardians on these topics.
Access to Student Course Requests will be available for incoming freshmen from January 20
through noon on March 21, 2022 allowing students (in consultation with their families) to enter their
desired elective course requests in the Fine & Performing Art and Technology Engineering &
Computer Science into their Aspen Student Accounts. The Aspen Student Account Course Request
period will be closed at noon of March 21, 2022.
Beginning on April 5, 2022 through April 14, 2022, students and parents/guardians will have access
to the Course Request form online via the Aspen Family Portal to view course recommendations
made by their teachers for courses in mathematics, English, world language, science and social
studies. Teacher recommendations are the result of the teachers‘ best professional judgment after
working daily with your son or daughter and after reviewing the placement standards agreed to by
the middle and high school faculty/staff. Students and parents/guardians will also be able to view
the student‘s course requests in Fine & Performing Art and, Technology Engineering & Computer
Science which were entered during the Aspen Student Account Course Request period.
Parents/Guardians must sign off electronically in Aspen on the Course Request Form by
April 14,
2022 in order for student courses to be scheduled. Forms signed off on after April
14 may result in delay of scheduling and course availability. All level changes in mathematics,
English, world language, science and social studies must have teacher and parent/guardian
approval.
Course programs are designed after the completed course request form is signed off on
electronically by a parent/guardian. All scheduling decisions must be completed before May 1,
2022 for the 2022-2023 school year.
NOTE: Parent/Guardian signature in Aspen on the Course Request Form indicates that parents
have read the Program of Studies document, understand its contents, the requirements of courses
recommended and requested, and agree to the course program as listed on this form. Parents who
wish to discuss a child's recommended course or level, should contact the subject teacher for
clarification.
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All requests for placement reviews and scheduling change requests must be put in writing by April
29, 2022 and decisions must be completed by May 1, 2022. The decisions as of May 1st will be
final for the 2022-2023 school year. Final course offerings are based on teacher
recommendations, student requests and on budgetary funding. The school reserves the
right to consult alternate course requests when courses are cancelled, closed or when
course conflicts arise as necessary.
PLACEMENT REVIEW PROCESS FOR GRADES 10-12
English Department Placement Review for current high school students
Upper-class students in CP with a B+ average who desire to enter the Honors program may
submit a writing portfolio that includes both in- and out-of-class writing for review and
consideration by the English Department. The English Department will also seek comments from
the student‘s present and past English teachers. Portfolios must be submitted along with a
completed form obtained from his or her English teacher to the English Department Head no
later than April 29, 2022 for consideration.
Other Academic Department Placement Review
If a student does not meet the prerequisite for a given course and the student, and his or her
parent/guardian, wishes to discuss the child‘s recommended course or level, they are directed to
speak with the subject teacher first in accordance with departmental protocols. Parents may then
schedule a joint meeting with the recommending subject teacher and the Department Head to
review the teacher‘s recommendation before April 29, 2022. At this meeting, the student must
submit added evidence requested by the Department Head showing that he or she is capable of
Honors/AP level work in this subject and would contribute positively to the success of the course.
The decision of the Department Head and Principal will be final.
PLACEMENT REVIEW PROCESS FOR INCOMING FRESHMAN
English Department Placement Review for Incoming Freshmen
Incoming freshmen earning a B+ who wish to be considered for the Honors English program
may request a writing portfolio review by the High School English Department. The portfolio must
be submitted no later than April 29, 2022 to the Middle School Curriculum Leader with a form
obtained from their English teacher.
Other Academic Department Placement Review
If a student does not meet the prerequisite for a given course and the student, and his or her
parent/guardian, wishes to discuss the child‘s recommended course or level they are directed to
speak with subject teacher first in accordance with departmental protocols. Eighth grade
teachers will recommend the appropriate course level in each subject for incoming ninth grade
students. Course level placements are a result of the teachers‘ best professional judgment after
working daily with the student and after reviewing the placement standards agreed to by the
middle and high school staff. After the initial subject teacher contact, any further discussion
about placement should be directed to the appropriate Department Head at the high school
before April 29, 2022. The decision of the Department Head and Principal will be final.
All scheduling decisions for grades 9-12 must be completed by May 1, 2022 for the 2022-
2023 school year. Decisions as of May 1, 2022 will be final in the fall.
ACCELERATING IN A COURSE OF STUDY
A student who wishes to accelerate a course of study must first gain approval from the Department
Head of that discipline and then take both the midyear and/or final exam for the preceding course to
demonstrate complete mastery of the subject material. Additionally, the student must earn the pre-
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requisite passing grade(s) on the Dover Sherborn exam(s) as outlined in the Program of Studies for
this course. Acceleration will not reduce the required number of courses that a student must take to
fulfill graduation requirements. Any exception must be pre-approved by the Principal.
Middle school students seeking to accelerate or bypass high school course requirements must get
prior approval from the Middle School and High School Principals. Courses taken without prior
approval will not be considered for placement purposes.
Beginning in February and continuing through May, considerable time and effort is spent by
counselors, teachers, parent/guardians and students to develop individualized course programs for
the following academic year. After May 1, 2022, changes to a student's schedule for the 2022-
2023 school year will be considered only as a result of highly unusual circumstances. A
student who feels that a course or level change request is warranted is directed to speak with his
or her subject teacher first.
COURSE CHANGE PROCEDURES
DURING THE SCHOOL YEAR
When a scheduling change is considered during the school year, the following guidelines apply:
1. Adding a Course:
Courses may only be added within the first six class meetings of any course. Students will not be
added to new classes after this time without permission of the Principal.
2. Class Level Transfers:
After the first six classes have passed, a student may change ONLY the level of a current class and
ONLY with the recommendation of the classroom teacher and the Department Head. A course
level change may only be considered through the mid-point of a course. A student‘s grade
average in his/her current class, as of the date of the level transfer, will follow him/her into the new
level class.
After first semester interim grades have been posted, the report card and transcript will reflect a
Withdrawal Pass (WP) or Withdrawal Fail (WF) in the previous level.
Even with approval, a change in a course or level can be made only if there is sufficient space in the
receiving course at the time that the actual schedule change is completed.
3. Dropping a Course:
A student must carry a minimum of 36 credits each year. A student may not drop a course or fall
below the minimum credit requirement without the approval of the Principal. Any course drop after
the first interim grade report is posted will appear as Withdrawl/Pass (WP) or Withdrawl/Fail
(WF) on the student’s permanent record/transcript. After fifty percent (50%) of a course's
class meetings have passed (for all year courses, this includes the mid-year exam), a student
who withdraws from a course will receive a failing grade (F). The result of dropping this
class will appear on a student's permanent record/transcript as a failure (F) for this course.
VIRTUAL HIGH SCHOOL COURSES:
Please see page 129 for Virtual High School information and note that add/drop dates differ
from DS course deadlines.
NO COURSE WILL BE CHANGED WITHOUT WRITTEN ACKNOWLEDGMENT FROM THE
STUDENT’S PARENT/GUARDIAN, THE APPROVAL FROM TEACHER AND THE
DEPARTMENT HEAD, AND THE RECOMMENDATION OF HIS OR HER SCHOOL
COUNSELOR. ALL FINAL DECISIONS REST WITH THE PRINCIPAL.
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Please be advised that when changes are made to a student‘s schedule, the school attempts to
minimize disruption. However, sometimes the requested change necessitates a total revision of
the student‘s schedule.
DOVER-SHERBORN GRADING
DOVER-SHERBORN GRADING SCALE
Dover-Sherborn operates on a two semester calendar year that includes mid-semester interim
reports and semester grading terms, plus mid-year and final exams.
A minimum passing grade is 65. Grades on transcripts and report cards are literal and the numerical
equivalents are:
A 93-100 C+ 77-79
A- 90-92 C 73-76
B+ 87-89 C- 70-72
B 83-86 D 65-69
B- 80-82 F (Failing) 65 and below
P=Pass
F=Fail
CALCULATING A GRADE POINT AVERAGE
Dover Sherborn bases its GPA on a 4.0 Weighted Scale. Cumulative Grade Point Averages are
calculated at the end of each semester of high school. The GPA is calculated by using the grading
code below and assigning the correct weight to each letter grade in the following academic subjects
taken at Dover-Sherborn High School that meet six or more times in our eight day cycle: English,
mathematics, science, world language and social studies and the elective courses listed in the
bulleted section below the Quality Point Scale. After determining the weights for each course, a sum
is calculated. This sum is then divided by the number of counted courses completed.
Dover-Sherborn does not provide any rank-in-class distinctions.
Please note:
The weight for an all year course is calculated at 50% at Semester 1 of a given class. It is
calculated at 100% at the end of the full year.
QUALITY POINT SCALE
AP Honors CP
A 5.00 4.80 4.00
A- 4.58 4.40 3.67
B+ 4.17 4.00 3.33
B 3.75 3.60 3.00
B- 3.33 3.20 2.67
C+ 2.92 2.80 2.33
C 2.50 2.40 2.00
C- 2.08 2.00 1.67
D 1.25 1.20 1.00
F 0.00 0.00 0.00
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The weight for a one semester course is half the weight of an all year course.
If a course taken at Dover-Sherborn High School is repeated at Dover-Sherborn High School due
to a failure then both final grades count in the GPA.
The following elective courses taken at the Honors level will count as Honors weighting towards
the GPA: Astronomy H, Engineering H, Industrial Tech III-General Contracting H and Pre-AP
Art H. Engineering and Astronomy at the CP level will also be included in the GPA.
GPA‘s are only calculated for courses taken at Dover-Sherborn High School. The one exception to
this is that advanced mathematics courses taken at SOHS and/or Johns Hopkins CTY (as detailed
in the Mathematics section of this Program of Studies) will be included in a student‘s GPA. The
SOHS/Johns Hopkins CTY courses will be calculated according to the Advanced Placement Quality
Point Weighting.
Courses taken by students participating in elected alternative programs will not be included in a
Dover-Sherborn GPA.
Independent Study grades are not included in GPA calculations without permission of the
Principal.
Courses taken for ―pass/fail‖ grade will not be factored into a student‘s GPA.
Students must sit for the AP exam in order to retain AP quality point weighting on their final
transcript.
SOHS and/or Johns Hopkins CTY advanced mathematics courses will only be included in a
student‘s GPA after Dover Sherborn High School has received an official transcript indicating a
student‘s grade.
Students who successfully complete AP Art will receive Advanced Placement Quality Point
weighting toward their GPA
RESOLUTION OF INCOMPLETES
All incompletes must be resolved by the student and the grade submitted by the teacher within the
first week after issuance of grades at the posting intervals. A last term or final exam incomplete
must be resolved within two weeks of the opening of the following school year. Any exceptions
must be approved by the Principal.
MEDICAL GRADE “M”
A student who misses class for a majority of a term as a result of a significant and documented
medical or emotional circumstance may receive an ―M‖ for the term or semester. The request of an
―M‖ should be initiated by the guidance counselor.
The grade and number of credit(s) reduction will be determined through consultation with the
teacher, department chair and administration.
The course requirement will be met.
Administration will determine whether or not the ―M‖ is appropriate for which classes.
An ―M‖ may not be awarded as a final grade
COVID-19 College Statement
2021-2022 School Year:
Dover-Sherborn has returned to in-person learning, 5 days a week. We will publish interim grades
in late October and first semester grades in early February.
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2020-2021 School Year:
For the 2020-2021 school year, Dover Sherborn High School opted to follow a hybrid model of
education. Students attended school in-person for two days each week and learned remotely for
three days. Standard letter grades were given, though students did not take midyear or final exams.
To accommodate a later start of the school year, we adjusted our overall semester grades to reflect
a running average of work done each semester. Final grades for the year were calculated by
weighting each grade as follows: Semester 1 (50%), Semester 2 (50%).
2019-2020 School Year:
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Dover Sherborn High School shifted to remote learning on Friday,
March 13, 2020. Standard letter grades were given for Quarters 1 and 2 and, subsequently,
Semester 1. A letter grade was also given for Quarter 3, representing only the in-person portion of
the second semester. Fourth quarter was graded on a Pass/Fail basis. Final grades for the year
were calculated by weighting each grade as follows: Semester 1 (72%), Quarter 3 (18%), Quarter 4
(10%).
REPEATING A COURSE AT DOVER-SHERBORN
A student may request to repeat a course taken at Dover-Sherborn where credit has been earned.
The following guidelines are used:
The course is a foundation for subsequent courses
No credit is earned when the course is repeated and the original grade stands.
FIFTH YEAR STUDENTS
A fifth year student must re-enroll with permission of the Principal before he/she will be given a
schedule by the school counselor.
Some students may need only one or two courses to fulfill graduation requirements. If this is the
case, a student‘s courses will be scheduled as early in the day as the master schedule allows and
the student will be dismissed from school following the end of the student‘s last class. Each day the
student is scheduled to be in attendance, he or she is required to sign-in to campus at the main
office upon arrival to school and must sign out of campus following the end of the student‘s last
class each day. Fifth year students are required to leave the school grounds following the end of
the student‘s last class each day unless they receive permission from the Principal.
ORIGINAL CREDIT COURSES TAKEN OUTSIDE OF DOVER-SHERBORN
The following criteria shall apply to courses taken for original credit:
A student must obtain written permission from the Principal to enroll in and receive original
credit for courses taken outside Dover-Sherborn High School. The only exception to this rule is
if a student qualifies to take an advanced mathematics course and/or a technology course via
SOHS and/or Johns Hopkins CTY as indicated in the Mathematics or Technology, Engineering
and Computer Science sections of this Program of Studies. The Principal must sign off and
give permission.
In general, students will be allowed to accrue up to twelve (12) Dover-Sherborn credits for
courses taken off campus. These courses will NOT fulfill graduation requirements or be
included in the Dover-Sherborn High School GPA unless approved by the Principal.
1. Six credits will be granted for a full semester college level course that is pre-approved by the
Principal. These courses will not be included in a Dover Sherborn High School GPA unless
approved by the Principal.
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2. Three or six credits will be granted for semester online courses through the TEC-sponsored
online course initiative. All TEC online course registrations must be pre-approved through
the Principal. These courses will not be included in a Dover Sherborn High School GPA
unless approved by the Principal.
Credits will be assigned for SOHS and Johns Hopkins CTY courses as indicated in the
Mathematics and Technology, Engineering and Computer Science sections of this Program of
Studies. In addition, these courses will fulfill graduation requirements and do not count towards
the 12 credit maximum.
NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY
Students inducted into the National Honor Society exemplify high standards of scholarship, service,
leadership, and character. Students who have earned a cumulative GPA of 3.80 or higher during
the first four semesters of high school are invited to submit an application for consideration by the
NHS Faculty Council. The faculty council considers each applicant's dedication to service,
leadership, scholarship and character -considering discipline history and input from the faculty.
After the evaluation, the faculty advisors for National Honor Society notify applicants of the
committee‘s decision. Inducted members of NHS give back to the local community by providing
tutoring services to peers and younger students in the district and by completing group service
project-volunteering at the Greater Boston Food Bank. Information about membership
requirements and the application for NHS can be found on the school‘s webpage.
WORLD LANGUAGE HONOR SOCIETY
The World Language Department at Dover-Sherborn High School recognizes seniors who are
exemplary language students (Chinese, French, Latin and Spanish) and who have achieved the
highest academic level in their respective languages by inviting them to become members of the
Dover-Sherborn World Language Honor Society. In order for a student to be eligible for
membership in the World Language Honor Society, he/she must meet the following criteria within
one language:
The student must have completed three years of language at the high school level.
The student must have achieved a final grade of A- or better in the world language in each
of the three years of study.
The student must demonstrate sincere interest in the study of languages by current
enrollment in the highest possible world language course offered senior year: (Online
courses do not fulfill this requirement.)
Chinese: Chinese Intermediate 1 Honors
French: AP French Language and Culture
Latin: AP Latin or Advanced Topics in Latin
Spanish: AP Spanish Language and Culture
MASSACHUSETTS STATE SEAL OF BILITERACY
As established through the Act Relative to Language Opportunity for Our Kids, the LOOK Act, the
State Seal of Biliteracy is a means to recognize students who ―attain high functional and academic
levels of proficiency in English and a world language, meaning that those students can function in
those languages in authentic, real-life situations.‖ Beginning with the graduating class of 2021,
qualifying Dover Sherborn seniors will receive official recognition on their transcripts. Criteria for the
award is outlined below.
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State Seal of Biliteracy With Distinction
Score of Exceeding Expectations on the grade 10 ELA MCAS exam
Minimum score of Advanced-Low on the 4 communication modes of an approved proficiency
test (i.e. AAPPL, ALIRA)
State Seal of Biliteracy
Score of Meeting Expectations on the grade 10 ELA MCAS exam or Level 5 on the
ACCESS test
Minimum Score of Intermediate-High on the 4 communication modes of an approved
proficiency test (i.e. AAPPL, ALIRA)
GLOBAL CITIZENSHIP PROGRAM
The Global Citizenship Program at Dover-Sherborn High School affords all students the opportunity
to graduate with a Global Citizenship Certificate, tangible proof that they have acquired the skills
and perspectives that allow them to become successful in today‘s global society. Students
completing this program are expected to have the following: knowledge of the world they live in;
empathy for the perspectives of other people and cultures; the ability to act on global issues; good
communication skills.
Enrollment into the program is done by application process and interested students will submit a
Letter of Intent to the Global Citizenship Advisory Board for review by the end of their sophomore
year. Upon acceptance, students will be responsible for completing all of the requirements stated
within the program guidelines.
More information about the Dover Sherborn Global Citizenship Program as well as all necessary
forms can be found on the Dover-Sherborn High School Website:
https://sites.google.com/a/doversherborn.org/ds-global-citizenship-program/
ELIGIBILITY FOR EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
To be academically eligible to participate in athletics, clubs, and drama/musical performances
during the first and second semesters, a student cannot fail more than one major academic course
(English, Math, Science, Social Studies, World Language) for the semester immediately preceding.
Academic eligibility for each semester is determined whenever report cards are posted and
published.
To be academically eligible to participate for the first semester, a student is required to have passed
30 credits (the equivalent of five traditional year-long courses) in the previous academic year and to
have not failed more than one course the previous semester. Eligibility for first semester is
determined by a student‘s final grades from the previous school year.
Students failing one or more courses at the interim mark will be monitored by guidance and
administration in order to develop a plan for academic success.
Student-athletes may not participate in games or scrimmages until they have met these eligibility
requirements and been granted clearance by the Athletic Director.
A student entering Grade 9 from a middle or junior high school is eligible at the start of the ninth
grade school year.
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NCAA CLEARING HOUSE
College-bound student-athletes who want to compete in NCAA sports at a Division I or II school
need to meet certain division-wide academic and amateurism standards. Students who plan to
attend a Division III school need to meet the admission standards of the school they plan to attend.
Dover-Sherborn must submit a course catalog to the NCAA Eligibility Center for approval. Not all
courses at Dover-Sherborn are approved by the NCAA so student athletes who register with the
NCAA Eligibility Center must inform their counselor, and together, review their transcript against the
approved course listing. For more information on how to register go to:
http://www.ncaa.org/student-athletes/future
GUIDANCE
Services: The guidance department curriculum is listed on the department‘s webpage. The
following list includes a number of activities and services provided by the school counseling office:
New student registration
Schedule development for new students
Course selection and course registration
Resolve scheduling conflicts
Manage student schedule changes
Monitoring student academic progress
Facilitate Instructional Support Team and Section 504 Plan meetings
Attend parent/guardian/teacher conferences
Participate in IEP meetings
Consult with teachers, administrators, parent/guardians and students
Provide mediations for students to help resolve conflicts
Assist with freshmen year transition
Development of Four Year Plans
Curriculum development aligned with National and State Standards
Individual counseling and small group counseling
Academic counseling
Personal counseling
Provide crisis intervention
Post-secondary counseling
Process applications to independent schools and post-secondary programs
Coordination of referrals to outside resources
Arrange home tutoring for students with extended illness
Military Liaison
Communications between school and home
Peer Helping
Orientation programs
Parent/guardian information programs
College Board Testing
PSAT and SAT Test administration
AP Exam administration
Scholarship programs
Stanley Z. Koplik Certificate of Mastery and the John and Abigail Adams Scholarship Program
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NAVIANCE
Naviance is a web based program used in conjunction with the high school guidance curriculum.
Students are introduced to Naviance in middle school through career exploration lessons.
Sophomore year, students use Naviance to explore various careers and post-secondary
opportunities. Junior students use Naviance for college searches and seniors use Naviance to
assist with the college application process. The Naviance program allows counselors and teachers
to submit requested college-related materials (transcripts, school forms, and letters of
recommendation) electronically to colleges.
JOHN AND ABIGAIL ADAMS SCHOLARSHIP
The John and Abigail Adams Scholarship is a state sponsored scholarship with a tuition ONLY
credit of up to eight semesters of undergraduate education for students entering Massachusetts
state colleges and universities (excluding Mass College of Art). Students qualify by: (1) scoring at
the qualifying levels on grade 9 & 10 MCAS assessments, and (2) having a combined MCAS score
that places them in the top 25% of the students in the district.
The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education determines eligibility. Students will be
mailed acceptance letters if they are found eligible.
STANLEY Z. KOPLIK CERTIFICATE OF MASTERY with DISTINCTION
The Stanley Z. Koplik Certificate of Mastery with Distinction: Currently, students initially qualify by
meeting specific minimum scoring standards in English Language Arts, Math and/or Science &
Technology/Engineering.
In order for eligible students to receive the Koplik certificate, they must also demonstrate additional
academic achievement such as high scores on Advanced Placement exams and/or other academic
achievement. Seniors must apply through the Koplik Coordinator (school counselor Ms.
Beth Hecker) between mid-December 2022 and May 2023.
Awarded students will receive a tuition waiver to Massachusetts state colleges and universities.
Both Koplik and Adams Scholarship recipients must file the Free Application for Federal
Student Aid (FAFSA) each year to receive a tuition waiver.
For updated information regarding either scholarship program, please speak with the Koplik
Coordinator or the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education at Tel: 781-
338-3000 or visit the following website for more specific scoring information:
www.doe.mass.edu/scholarships
STANDARDIZED TESTING INFORMATION
Students should always find out exactly which scores each college requires and how they will
use those scores. To determine this information, students should review individual college websites.
Additionally, students are encouraged to consult with their school counselors for more detailed
information.
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PSAT/NMSQT is offered annually by the College Board and the National Merit Scholarship
Corporation. This newly re-designed test consists of primarily multiple-choice reasoning questions
in reading, math, writing and language skills, with a few grid-in math questions. The test is
administered in October each year.
The PSAT, modeled after the SAT, is a practice test for sophomores and juniors who may consider
attending college after graduating from high school.
If students elect to take the PSAT for practice as sophomores, it is recommended that they still
consider taking the test as juniors. Consideration for recognition and perhaps scholarship
opportunities, as administered by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, are based upon
performance on the junior year PSAT. Scores from sophomore year are not considered.
SAT tests are offered multiple times per year. They are organized into 4 parts: Reading, Writing and
Language, Math. Scoring will be on a 4001600 scale. The test will take 3 hours and 50 minutes to
complete. The multiple choice options will be out of four answer choices.
Juniors generally take the SAT test during the winter or spring of junior year and often repeat the
exam during senior year choosing from test administrations in August, October, November or
December. Students who plan to apply to colleges early (early action or early decision) should
complete all testing by the November test dates.
For additional information on the PSAT, SAT and the Subject Tests, please visit the College Board‘s
website at www.collegeboard.org.
ACT - is a three hour standardized test. The ACT is specifically designed to measure academic
achievement in the areas of English, math, reading and science reasoning. The ACT also provides
students with an ―optional‖ Writing Test. The Writing Test is scored separately and the results do
not affect the student‘s ACT composite scores. However, some colleges recommend that
students always take the ACT with Writing. For more information, visit the ACT website,
www.act.org.
Please note: Colleges accept ACT or SAT scores for admission.
STANDARDIZED TESTING ACCOMMODATIONS
You must apply for ALL standardized testing accommodations. Being on an IEP or
504 Plan does not automatically qualify you.
Please contact your school counselor or special education liaison for information on
registering and requesting accommodations for the PSAT, SAT, AP and ACT. The
College Board (PSAT, SAT & AP) and the ACT have separate registration processes.
Accommodations with one organization does not guarantee accommodations with
the other, you must apply to both organizations for accommodations. The guidance
department recommends applying in your freshmen year for SAT accommodations
and junior year for ACT accommodations.
Please note: The College Board and the ACT will approve and assign testing
accommodations for individual students; Dover-Sherborn has no involvement or
influence in the approval process.
PLEASE NOTE: ACCOMMODATIONS ARE NOT AUTOMATIC. YOU MUST APPLY
AND BE MINDFUL OF ALL APPLICATION DEADLINES
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SUGGESTED COURSE OF STUDY FOR POST SECONDARY EDUCATION
The information included in the section below is designed to assist the student in determining what
courses are generally required for admission to post secondary institutions. Specific schools
sometimes have slightly different requirements. Therefore, it is advisable for students to consult with
their school counselors and/or specific colleges for more detailed information. Dover-Sherborn
graduation requirements are higher in certain subject areas.
Admission to a Two and Four Year College or University
College Preparatory or Honors Level courses are recommended.
4 years of English
3-4 years of math
3-4 years of science
3-4 years of social studies
* 3-4 years of world language
*Please Note: There are some colleges that will waive the student‘s world language requirement if
during high school the student successfully completed four years of world language study in a single
language.
The admissions standards for MA state colleges and universities emphasize a strong academic high
school background so that students possess competencies needed to succeed in a college setting.
These standards represent minimum requirements; meeting them does not guarantee admission,
since a wide range of factors are considered in admissions decisions. Students must have fulfilled
all requirements for the high school diploma or its equivalent upon enrollment. It is important to note
that admissions standards for the state‘s community colleges differ. Community colleges may admit
any high school graduate or GED recipient.
Freshmen Admissions updated 2019
The new admissions standards have three parts:
16 required academic courses
A minimum grade point average (GPA) earned in College preparatory courses completed at the
time of application
SAT or ACT score (Test optional in 2020-2021)
Academic Course Requirement
Seventeen college preparatory courses distributed as follows (A course is equivalent to one full
school year of study. Courses count toward the distribution only if passed.)
Massachusetts State
Universities Minimum Admission
Standards
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English 4 courses
Mathematics 4 courses (Algebra I & II and Geometry or Trigonometry or
comparable course work)
Sciences 3 courses with laboratory work
Social Sciences 2 courses (including 1 course in U.S. History)
World Languages 2 courses (in a single language)
Electives 2 courses (from the above subjects or from the Arts & Humanities or
Computer Sciences)
MA State Universities Admissions Minimum Grade Point Average (GPA)
Massachusetts state universities use a minimum GPA of 3.00 as one of their entrance criteria.
Students falling below a 3.0 should review the sliding scale requirement. NO applicant with a High
School GPA below 2.00 may be admitted to a state college or university campus. Students with a
GPA below 2.00 are encouraged to begin their post secondary education at a community college.
Sliding scale for Freshman Applicants to a Massachusetts State University
COMBINED COMPOSITE
GPA SAT ACT
2.51-2.99 990 19
2.41-2.50 1030 20
2.31-2.40 1070 21
2.21-2.30 1110 22
2.11-2.20 1140 23
2.00-2.10 1180 24
Sliding scale for Freshman Applicants to the University of Massachusetts
COMBINED COMPOSITE
GPA SAT ACT
2.51-2.99 1030 20
2.41-2.50 1070 21
2.31-2.40 1110 22
2.21-2.30 1140 23
2.11-2.20 1180 24
2.00-2.10 1220 25
Students who meet the minimum GPA requirement do not have to use the sliding scale for
admission, but still must submit SAT or ACT test scores for consideration if they are applying to a
State College or University within three years of high school graduation. The complete guide is
available on the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education‘s website:
http://www.mass.edu.
34
English
Grade 10
Grade 11
Grade 9
Grade 12
English I
Honors
English I
CP
English II
CP
American
Literature
Honors
AP Literature and
Composition
Honors and CP students must also take TWO of these
semester courses at the same level:
Writing and Non-Fiction: Honors or CP
English Literature: Honors or CP
Film as Literature: Honors or CP
Poetry Workshop: Honors or CP
Contemporary Literature: Honors or CP
American
Literature
CP
English II
Honors
AP Language and
Composition
35
ENGLISH
Courses in English are offered at two levels for freshmen and sophomores, (College
Preparatory and Honors) and three levels for juniors and seniors (College Preparatory, Honors,
and Advanced Placement).
COURSE PREREQUISITES
Incoming Freshmen
Incoming freshmen who desire to enter the Honors program must have at least an A- average at
the end of the first semester and the recommendation of their current English teacher. Honors
candidates must have a history of superior performance in their English classes, and their
writing portfolios must demonstrate their ability to write clear, imaginative, and coherent prose in
both in-class and out-of-class writing. Students must maintain the A- (or better) average during
the second semester in order to secure their placement.
Incoming freshmen earning a B+ who wish to be considered for the Honors English program
may request a writing portfolio review by the High School English Department. The portfolio
must be submitted no later than April 14, 2022 to the Middle School Curriculum Leader with a
form obtained from their English teacher. Parent/guardians and students will be informed of the
decisions by the first week of May, 2022.
Rising Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors
Rising sophomores, juniors and seniors desiring to elect an Honors English section must have a
minimum A- average in their CP course at the end of the first semester and the
recommendation of their current English teacher. Students must maintain the A- average (or
better) during the second semester in order to secure their placement.
Students in an AP class are expected to maintain a B- average and the recommendation of their
current English teacher to be placed in the AP class the next year. Students in a junior honors
class are expected to maintain an average of B- to be placed at the honors level during senior
year. Students who seek to move from junior honors to the senior AP class must have at least
an A- average and the recommendation of their teacher. Students in a junior CP class who wish
to move to the AP class must have an A average and the recommendation of the English
Department.
Upper-class students in CP with a B+ average who desire to enter the Honors program may
submit a writing portfolio for review by the English Department. The portfolio must include both
in and out-of-class writing; the English Department will also seek comments from the student‘s
present and past English teachers. Portfolios must be submitted along with a completed form
obtained from his or her English teacher to the English Department Head no later than April 14,
2022 for consideration. Students will be informed of the decisions by the first week of May,
2022.
Students should be aware that some courses may not run due to insufficient enrollment, so it is
important to choose alternate courses carefully.
A student cannot advance to a higher grade-level course without first receiving a passing grade
in his/her present class.
36
SUMMER READING AND WRITING REQUIREMENTS FOR ADVANCED PLACEMENT
COURSES:
Incoming juniors who have signed up to take Advanced Placement Language and Composition
are required to read two texts; the texts and writing requirements will be announced in the
spring.
Incoming seniors who have signed up to take Advanced Placement Literature and Composition
are required to read two texts; the texts and writing requirements will be announced in the
spring
Supplementary support classes that count toward graduation, but do not count toward the 24
English credits required for graduation include Small Group English, which is offered all four
years and requires teacher recommendation.
Small Group English* All Year 3 credits*
Prerequisite: Recommendation of English teacher
Small Group English is a small group skills class offered to freshmen, sophomores and juniors
in need of additional support in English.
Freshmen Small Group English
(1130) Open to recommended grade 9 students.
Sophomore Small Group English
(1340) Open to recommended grade 10 students.
Junior Small Group English
(1680) Open to recommended grade 11 students.
MCAS English Preparation* All year 3 credits*
(1350) College Prep
Open to recommended sophomores
This course familiarizes students with the format of the Language Arts section of the MCAS test.
Students will examine and respond to former test questions; their responses will be assessed to
provide them with feedback on the strength and weaknesses of their answers. Effective
responses to all prompts will be presented to illustrate proper form, organization, and thought.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
understand the composition of the language arts test: multiple choice, open-ended
response, and long composition
define and recognize examples of the terms of poetry
define and analyze in a literary piece common literary terms: e.g., setting, character, mood,
image, figurative language
recognize tone, and the way it is conveyed, in a piece of literature
read, comprehend, and respond to a short excerpt of a literary piece
identify the use and meaning of a word in context
utilize a standard form in writing open-ended responses
(long composition) comment in a well-informed manner on a piece of literature from their
own experience and memory
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(long composition) write a 2 3 page essay, in standard English, with the help of a
dictionary for use in revising spelling
understand and apply the standards of conventional English: sentence integrity, proper
punctuation, paragraph organization
pass the Language Arts portion of the MCAS
*Note: The credit received for Small Group English Prep does not count towards the
graduation requirement of 24 credits in English.
FRESHMAN COURSES
English I All Year 6 credits
(1101) Honors
(1110) College Prep
The English I course focuses on the themes of identity and self-discovery. It is designed to
generate deeper thinking about the critical elements of the short story, novel, drama, poetry and
non- fiction, and to broaden students‘ understanding of themselves and the world around them.
The freshman year is an opportunity for students to work on their study skills, to strengthen
close and analytical reading and writing skills, to expand their vocabulary, and to become
proficient in grammar. Students will share ideas and perceptions based on their reading through
writing, small and large group discussions (including Socratic seminars) and through speaking
and presentations. Students will practice generating probing questions, taking notes, developing
research skills, learning and applying literary terms, and sharpening reading comprehension
and writing skills.
Note: Students taking English I at the Honors level should have a willingness to grapple
with challenging and complex concepts and mature themes within course texts.
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
ask relevant, probing questions about literature
read, comprehend, and analyze passages from fiction and non-fiction
identify and analyze the elements of fiction,
poetry and drama
take effective reading notes
write effectively
develop and support a thesis statement
support assertions with textual evidence
smoothly integrate quotations into an essay
map out thinking using an outline, chart or other planning organizer
communicate ideas effectively in a logical and organized way using standard grammar and
writing conventions
proofread, edit and revise writing
define and apply literary terms
deliver an effective oral presentation
locate online and print sources in the library
practice Open Response type questions
document sources for literary research using the MLA format
use the Internet as a research tool
complete a final assessment that demonstrate the ability to analyze and synthesize texts
think critically
38
Major texts for English I Honors may include selections from the following: Romeo and Juliet,
Much Ado About Nothing, Speak, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, Long Way Down, The
Odyssey, Great Expectations, The Piano Lesson, A Separate Peace, The Bean Trees, The Lord
of the Flies, All the Light We Cannot See, short stories, poetry and non-fiction.
English I All Year 6 credits
(1159) College Prep
Prerequisite: Recommendation of the Middle School English Department
This course English I is designed to meet the needs of students whose abilities require more
emphasis on developing reading and writing skills. Through the use of materials that are
appropriate for students' skill levels and at a pace that allows for the use of multiple approaches,
students will develop an understanding of literature and writing. Students study the genres of
literature - short story, novel, drama, and poetry - through a thematic study of adolescent self-
discovery. In addition to reading literature focused on the passage from adolescence to
adulthood, students will work on the strands of the English framework to develop effective study
skills, enrich their vocabulary, ask probing questions, develop research skills, learn and apply
literary terms, and improve their reading and writing.
Major texts may include: Romeo and Juliet, The Catcher in the Rye, Long Way Down, The
Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time, The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian
and selected short stories, non-fiction and poetry.
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
ask relevant questions about literature
draw inferences from literature
identify and analyze the elements of fiction
read, comprehend, and analyze passages of fiction and non-fiction
take effective reading notes
develop and support a thesis statement
support assertions with textual evidence
map out thinking using an outline, chart or other organizer
communicate ideas effectively in a logical and organized way using standard grammar and
writing conventions
proofread, edit and revise writing
define and apply literary terms
deliver an effective oral presentation
locate online and print sources in the library
document sources for literary research using the MLA format
use the Internet as a research tool
write a final assessment that synthesizes and analyzes texts in the course
define and apply literary terms
deliver an effective oral presentation
locate sources in the library
document sources for literary research
use the Internet as a research tool
write a final paper
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SOPHOMORE COURSES
English II All Year 6 credits
(1311) Honors
(1300) College Prep
English II is a course that focuses on continuing to develop students‘ reading and writing skills.
As they study literature, students will explore such questions as: What is the nature of truth?
What is the relationship between fate and free will? What is the relationship between the roles
we play and the moral codes we live by and what happens when moral codes collide? What do
we as humans seek? Are we predetermined by our culture and its values? What do human
beings learn through direct experience and through the vicarious experience of the text?
Students are challenged to consider perspectives other than their own, and to recognize that
there are many types of truth.
As they focus on writing, students will develop an individual style and voice in the areas of
narrative, analytical, expository and descriptive prose. In addition, students will expand their
research skills, incorporating outside sources and proper documentation as they look closely at
a particular issue about which they generate an original thesis. This course inherently
addresses the vocabulary, critical thinking, and writing skills tested by the MCAS, PSAT, and
SAT exams.
Major texts for the course may include: Oedipus Rex, Antigone, Siddhartha, Night, Macbeth,
Everything I Never Told You, Clap When You Land, The Kite Runner, The Glass Castle, The
Life of Pi and This Boy’s Life.
Students will write in a variety of modes including: Classification and/or Definition;
Compare/Contrast; Close textual analysis; Description; Memoir/Narrative and
Persuasion/Argument
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
work with elements of fiction to move from literal to interpretive levels of meaning
write analytical essays on the literature discussed, using appropriate conventions, e.g.
present tense, introductory thesis statement, supporting details, reasoning textual evidence
and conclusion
support assertions in writing and discussion with specific references to the text
organize and structure paragraphs so that form complements content and purpose
generate, organize, and present ideas in several different essay forms
engage in a writing process that includes multiple drafts, as well as teacher, peer and self
review
analyze and use a variety of sentence structures
recognize and use standard grammar
punctuate properly
write a coherent and complete essay within a limited time period as preparation for
standardized assessments
English II All Year 6 credits
(1329) College Prep
Prerequisite: Recommendation of English I teacher.
This course is designed to meet the needs of students whose abilities require more emphasis
on developing both reading and writing skills. Through the use of materials appropriate for
students' skill levels and at a pace that allows for the use of multiple approaches to learning,
40
students will address some of the great themes in literaturefate vs. free will, the nature of
truth, the search for identity, good vs. eviland the paradigms which guide us. The instructor
will use specific techniques and tools such as repetition, scaffolding, and graphic organizers to
ensure comprehension of the material. The course will challenge students to see lives from a
point of view other than their own. Students will work on the strands of the English Curriculum
framework to develop effective study skills, enrich their vocabulary, ask probing questions,
develop research skills, learn and apply literary terms and improve their reading and writing.
Major texts are selected from the following: Macbeth, The House on Mango Street, Oedipus
Rex, Antigone, Siddhartha, and The Kite Runner. Students will also read selected short stories.
As writers, students will work to develop an individual style and voice in the areas of narrative,
expository, and descriptive prose as well as poetry. Through the use of materials that are
appropriate for students' skill levels and at a pace that allows for the use of multiple approaches,
students will work on the strands of the English Curriculum Framework to develop effective
study skills, enrich their vocabulary, and address critical thinking and writing skills tested by the
MCAS exam. The instructor will emphasize the use of graphic organizers and outlines, and will
work with students drafting essays, showing them how to maximize the quality of their work.
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
work with elements of fiction to move from literal to interpretive levels of meaning
write analytical essays on the literature discussed using appropriate conventions, including
writing in the present tense, introductory thesis statement, reasoning supporting evidence,
topic development, and conclusion
support assertions in writing and discussion with specific references to the text
use the ideas and characters of several books to formulate one extended essay in support
of a thesis statement
organize and structure paragraphs to ensure that form complements content and
purpose
generate, organize and present ideas in several different essay forms
engage in a writing process that includes multiple drafts, as well as teacher and peer review
analyze and use a variety of sentence structures and patterns
recognize and use standard grammar and writing conventions and apply punctuation
appropriately
JUNIOR COURSES
American Literature is required of all juniors, except those students enrolled in AP
Language and Composition.
AP English Language and Composition All Year 6 credits
(1662) Advanced Placement
Open to juniors eligible for Honors standing and who have the recommendation of their current
English teacher.
This course assumes that the student is already a sophisticated writer with a clear sense of the
conventions of English grammar and syntax. Its aim is to engage the student in becoming a
skilled reader of prose (mostly American non-fiction) and in becoming a skilled writer who
composes for a variety of purposes (mostly rhetorical analysis, argumentation, and synthesis).
Class discussions focus on the idea of created truth, model-dependent reality, part-pattern-
meaning, and the relationship between rhetorical purpose and rhetorical strategies. In the
41
process of studying how effective essays are written by others, students become more effective
in writing their own essays. All AP students are required to take the AP exam in May.
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
analyze prose written in a variety of periods, disciplines, and rhetorical contexts
recognize the main idea and purpose of a work, reasoning and evidence, focusing on
structure
identify devices that control tone and structure and show how they serve rhetorical purposes
compose in different modes and for different purposes, while maintaining a clear sense of
individual style and voice
observe and analyze the words, patterns, and structures that create subtle effects of
language
describe/explain/analyze an author‘s tone, attitude, assumptions and point of view
write a documented essay that incorporates primary and secondary sources
understand how to approach AP multiple choice questions
write effective AP rhetorical analysis essays
write effective AP argument analysis essays
write effective AP arguments
write effective AP synthesis essays
American Literature All Year 6 credits
(1411) Honors
(1440) College Prep
Required of all juniors except those enrolled in AP.
This course suggests that American literature is steeped in its own traditions, yet inextricably
linked to the mythic patterns of all cultures and times, particularly with respect to the American
Dream and the forces that betray it. The course examines the grail of freedom, equality and
self-fulfillment in a world that is not so much defined by final goals as by change and process.
American literature insists that the dream can be realized nonetheless, but warns that rarely
does it take the form originally intended. Central to the course is the examination of the
individual‘s relationship to the society.
Major texts for the course may include: Walden, The Great Gatsby, The Adventures of
Huckleberry Finn, The Crucible, Death of A Salesman, The Scarlet Letter, Fences, Their Eyes
Were Watching God, One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, The Narrative of the Life of Frederick
Douglass, A Streetcar Named Desire, The Things They Carried, The Roundhouse, The Grapes
of Wrath as well as selected poetry and short stories.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
define and analyze the origins and interpretations of the American Dream
identify what is fundamentally ―American‖ about the literature they read
analyze the evolution of the American ―dream‖ and articulate an individual definition of
essential American ―myths‖
identify a sense of the development of American literature and be familiar with some of its
most enduring characters and themes
identify some of the complex forces that shape American society and begin to see how the
individual can make a difference in determining what direction the future takes
analyze the relationship between freedom and responsibility, individual and society, power
and control
define the importance of values, the beauty of differences, and the need for common goals
write analytical essays involving close textual analysis of point of view, tone, imagery, and
purpose
42
American Literature All Year 6 credits
(1439) College Prep
Prerequisite: Recommendation from current English Teacher
This class will focus on the concept of the American Dream, and will introduce students to some
of the classic pieces of American poetry, short stories, and novels. Students will continue to
develop both reading and writing skills in the course, and will also have the opportunity for self-
expression through journaling, open-response, and creative writing.
Major texts may include: Feed, The Crucible, The Great Gatsby, The Things They Carried as
well as selected poems, short stories, and short essays.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
identify what is fundamentally ―American‖ about the literature they read
analyze the evolution of the American ―dream‖ and articulate an individual definition of
essential American ―myths‖
identify a sense of the development of American literature and be familiar with some of its
most enduring characters and themes
identify some of the complex forces that shape American society and begin to see how the
individual can make a difference in determining what direction the future takes
analyze the relationship between freedom and responsibility, individual and society, power
and control
define the importance of values, the beauty of differences, and the need for common goals
write analytical essays involving close textual analysis of point of view, tone, imagery, and
purpose
SENIOR COURSES
Important note: Students may not repeat an English class they have passed in a prior
semester for credit during their senior year.
Seniors not taking AP Literature and Composition must enroll in two (2) semester length
senior class offerings. These semester long classes must be taken at the same level
(CP or Honors).
AP English Literature and Composition All Year 6 credits
(1712) Advanced Placement
Open to seniors with a B- in AP Language and the recommendation of their English teacher or
an A- or higher in Honors junior English and the recommendation of their English teacher.
There are few easy answers in life or literature. AP offers students the opportunity to grapple
with fundamental questions about the nature of existence, the role of the individual in society,
the nature of morality, the complexity of identity, the elusiveness of truth, and the construct of
time. The essential questionWhat are the ties that bind us and what can literature teach us
about shared human experience and responsibilitywill form the foundation for the course.
Students will read challenging literature by such authors as Conrad, Joyce, Morrison, Faulkner,
O‘Brien, Melville, Delillo, Cunningham, Kingsolver, Lahiri, Ishiguro, Irving Shelley, Orwell,
Shakespeare, Wilde, and Woolf, among others, and will demonstrate a command of the content
principally through their writing, but also through varied forms of assessment. The AP English
course is a rigorous, college level course that encourages the critical examination of ideas, not
43
only as they appear in the works studied, but also as they apply to students' own lives. Students
will work with five genres: novels, drama, poetry, short fiction, and essaysand students are
encouraged to formulate their own questions as a means of exploring more deeply the
complexity of human thought and existence. Students will respond in the form of literary
journals, essays, class presentations, dramatic presentations, and class discussion, which is
central to the course. Students will work toward becoming independent makers of meaning. All
AP students are required to take the AP exam in May.
Major texts may include: Hamlet, Twelfth Night, The Rape of Lucrece, Mrs. Dalloway, Heart of
Darkness, Beloved, Disgrace, In the Lake of the Woods, Let the Great World Spin, The
Importance of Being Earnest, A Prayer for Owen Meany, Never Let Me Go, The Namesake,
Dubliners, Falling Man, Frankenstein, 1984, as well as classical and contemporary short stories
and poems.
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
identify the literary techniques that contribute to the meaning of a work
move from literal to inferential meaning through the language of a work
define the style of a work
understand how the structure of a work serves its content
analyze sophisticated and complex poetry, fiction and drama
write analytical essays in response to literature
participate in discussions of literature in a college seminar environment
answer the multiple choice questions from the AP Exam
write the three types of essays on the AP Exam
write literary research papers using primary and secondary sources, revising and editing
drafts
think critically about and respond to literature using a social networking forum
write with precise language
write creatively and imaginatively
identify and understand the context of a piece of literature
identify and understand the author‘s tone
compare and contrast pieces of literature
identify and understand literary devices and strategies
successfully present a memorized scene from Shakespeare and/or other dramatic literature
identify and use different types of critical approaches in literary analysis
Contemporary Literature Semester 3 credits
(1611) Honors
(1580) College Prep
In this course, students will read literature dealing with current social issues that affect us all.
The role of women, the nature of prejudice, the effects of war, the future of our planet, and the
delightful complexity of human relationships are among the topics examined. With each text,
students will forge real-life connections among their own lives, the characters‘ experiences and
those of people in contemporary society. Reading and discussing these texts will help students
recognize their responsibility to address these and other issues, and encourage empathy with
those who confront these and similar challenges.
Major texts may include: House of Sand and Fog, In the Lake of the Woods, Snow Falling on
Cedars, Like Water for Chocolate, Never Let Me Go, Doubt, Let the Great World Spin, Olive
Kitteridge, selected short stories, selected poems, and selected non-fiction
44
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
define the attributes of significant characters from the literature
determine from the characters and issues presented in the texts the significant issues
prevalent in contemporary society
identify the author‘s perspective on the issues implicitly or explicitly presented in the text
identify and understand the significance of the literary conventions evident in the text
write effective analytical essays
Honors students will be required to write more sophisticated essays, respond to additional
questions on tests and quizzes, and read additional texts.
Writing and Non-Fiction Semester 3 credits
(1601) Honors
(1590) College Prep
In Senior Writing and Non-Fiction students will explore the craft of nonfiction writing while
developing their own writing skills. Students will read a variety of articles, essays, memoirs, and
nonfiction books in order to examine the ways that writers question and draw conclusions about
themselves and the world around them. The nonfiction sources discussed in class will serve as
springboards to writing explorations about life and the ways in which students see and
understand the world. A general goal of the course is for students to develop an authentic voice
and a facility in writing. Students will be expected to plan, revise, and rewrite in the class.
Major texts may include: Into the Wild, Geography of Bliss, Outliers, In Cold Blood, The Perfect
Storm and articles from major publications such as The New York Times and The New Yorker.
Honors students will be required to write longer and more detailed essays, respond to additional
questions on tests and quizzes, and read additional texts. The work of Honors students will be
held to a higher grading standard throughout the course.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
analyze the arguments of a variety of nonfiction writers
write with an authentic, persuasive voice
write a persuasive, analytical essay
write a memoir
write about information gained from research
write creative pieces
present their work orally to an audience
share work with peers for feedback
English Literature Semester 3 credits
(1741) Honors
(1720) College Prep
Starting with early medieval literature and ending in the twentieth century, students will trace a
few of the major themes of the English Literary tradition through various centuries. Students will
read, respond to, and analyze selections from the vast English literary tradition with a primary
focus on famous novels, poetry, and dramas. Students will study famous English authors as
well as the social, historical, philosophical, and political contexts of the literature. This course
offers students the opportunity to become familiar with our common cultural and literary past as
students will be encouraged to draw parallels and connections from the English literature
studied to American literature, beliefs, and values, both old and new.
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Texts for the course may include: Beowulf, The Picture of Dorian Gray, selections from The
Canterbury Tales, Gulliver's Travels, Doctor Faustus, Pride and Prejudice, Frankenstein, Hard
Times, The Importance of Being Earnest, Brave New World, 1984 and Grendel. Students may
also read additional English poems, short stories, and non-fiction.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
analyze the literary elements of a selection of major English writers and their works
analyze the contexts that influenced the writers and their works and times
identify and trace the development of some of the major themes of English literature, and
connect those themes to our own American history, literature, beliefs and values
demonstrate proficiency in both creative and formal writing assignments
integrate clear textual support to support thesis-based arguments
appreciate different literary forms, with emphasis on the novel, poetry, drama, and essay
Honors students will be required to complete additional assignments and answer additional
questions on assessments and be held to a higher grading standard throughout the course. The
work of Honors students will be held to a higher grading standard throughout the course.
Poetry Workshop Semester 3 credits
(1491) Honors
(1460) College Prep
The course is designed for students who have a serious interest in experimenting, experiences
and practicing the reading and writing of poetry. Students will read a wide variety of poetry from
traditional and contemporary poets in order to observe the array of styles and forms available to
the poets. Students will compose original poems in open and closed forms.
Time will be devoted to providing each writer with feedback through peer, teacher and class
critiques.
All students may be required to read additional books of poetry outside of class and compose
analytical essays that focus on poetic style and technique.
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
understand the aesthetics of a poem
identify a poet‘s message, and analyze how the use of major poetic devices develop the
message
write analytical essays on the work of published poets
practice the writing process brainstorming, drafting, conferencing, revising, and editing
creating several multi-draft poems
write a series of poems in free verse and patterned structures using the figurative, sound,
and rhythmic tools of poetry
read his or her work to an audience
create a portfolio of his or her work
All Poetry Workshop students will be encouraged to attend local poetry readings and events.
Honors students will be required to complete additional assignments, compose work that is
lengthier, more complex in structure and more sophisticated in form. The work of Honors
students will be held to a higher grading standard throughout the course.
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Film as Literature Semester 3 credits
(1481) Honors
(1420) College Prep
Most people watch movies as a form of entertainment, escape, or vicarious experience, but this
course will teach students how to see and understand the films they watch in a more
sophisticated, insightful way. Similar to literature, most films tell stories that can be analyzed for
imagery, foreshadowing, metaphor, symbolism, and themebut films have the distinct
advantage of bringing the actual sights to viewers‘ eyes and sounds to their ears. After learning
a variety of film terms and language, students will learn that directors, like authors, make
thoughtful decisions in how they choose to bring their stories to film. With an emphasis on
analysis, the course helps students become insightful viewers, thinkers, and writers. Students
will watch, discuss, and analyze both classical and contemporary films that focus on American
history, life, and the American Dream, including such films as The Gold Rush, King Kong, The
Wizard of Oz, Citizen Kane, Rear Window, The Graduate, The Godfather, Do the Right Thing,
and American Beauty.
Honors students will be required to view additional films outside of class, write longer and more
detailed essays, respond to additional questions on tests and quizzes, and study additional
vocabulary words throughout the course.
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
identify the basic shot types, fundamental camera and subject motions, and analyze how
and why they are used
identify classical and continuity editing techniques and shot joining devices, analyzing how
they affect the rhythm and meaning of a scene or sequence
analyze how the elements of sound -- the spoken word, sound effects, and music
complement the visual images
identify and analyze the narrative techniques and conventions used in filmmaking
identify and analyze the "mise en scene" elements at work in a shot or scene
write precise shot descriptions that accurately translate a shot into words
identify and analyze the plot function and audience manipulation function of a scene
write analytical /interpretive essays on film
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Fine & Performing Arts
(All courses listed below can be used towards 18 credit elective graduation requirement)
Non-Performance
American
Musical Theater
Music Theory
Music
Guitar I
Guitar II
Performance
Chorus
Concert Band
Winds, Brass, Percussion
Jazz Band
Rhythm Section
By audition
Theatre
Introduction to
Filmmaking
Acting Workshop
Art 2D
Art 3D
Ceramics
I, II
Computer Graphic
Design
Darkroom
Photography
Intro to Photography
Digital Photography
Visual Arts
Yearbook Design
I, II, and III
Silkscreen Printing
Rhythm & Hues Poster
Design in Music
Pre-AP Art &
Design
AP Art & Design
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FINE AND PERFORMING ARTS
The successful completion of 18 credits in Technology Engineering & Computer Science
and/or Fine & Performing Arts at the high school is required for graduation.
Dover-Sherborn High School's Fine and Performing Arts Department is committed to a program
of excellence. The arts experience is a "whole brain, whole body" experience that demands both
verbal and non-verbal thought processes. It has the power to stir change because it touches all
people without regard to age, gender, religion, race, politics, or culture. The arts not only provide
a learning experience, they provide it with meaning, excitement, and style. It is our mission as a
department to teach the arts with imagination and rigor.
MUSIC
American Musical Theater Semester 3 credits
(7500) Open to all grades
Do you love West Side Story, Rent, Fiddler on the Roof, My Fair Lady and other musicals?
Have you ever wondered what goes into the creation of a musical and why some shows are
better than others? If so, this course is for you. Musical theater is an important genre in
American pop culture. This course examines the collaborative nature of music, drama, dance
and the visual arts in the creation of a musical. Students will learn how shows are created and
study the development of the art form in a historical context from its European roots to the
present day.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
understand the collaborative nature of music, drama, dance and the visual arts in musical
theater
understand the history of American musical theater in relation to American history and
culture
demonstrate an understanding of pivotal shows in the development of musical theater
Guitar I Foundational Playing Skills Semester 3 credits
(7510) Open to all grades
This class is a skills-based (as opposed to a styles-based) course in guitar playing. The course
will provide a solid technical and musical foundation from which students can further explore
various musical and guitar-playing styles. The class will focus on basic knowledge of the
instrument, left hand technique, right hand flat-picking and finger-picking techniques, music
literacy skills, melodic playing, chord knowledge, and accompaniment skills through solo and
ensemble playing. Students successfully completing the course will acquire foundational skills
that will prepare them for a lifetime of musical performance and exploration. The course is
geared towards students who have either a rudimentary knowledge of the instrument (such as
that gained in middle school music classes) or no prior guitar knowledge. Please note: this class
is not a jam session for experienced guitarists.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
demonstrate through performance a working knowledge of music literacy skills
demonstrate through performance proper left-hand guitar playing technique
demonstrate through performance various right-hand flat-picking and finger-picking
techniques
apply technical knowledge to the performance of solo and ensemble pieces
evaluate their own performance as well as that of others
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Guitar II Semester 3 credits
(7520) Open to all grades
Prerequisite: Completion of Guitar I or consent of the instructor.
―Guitar II‖ is a skills-based course in guitar playing. The goal of the course is to extend the
technical and musical foundation obtained in ―Guitar I‖. The course will broaden the base from
which a student can further his/her exploration of various musical and guitar-playing styles. As
with ―Guitar I‖, ―Guitar II‖ will focus on left and right hand techniques, music literacy skills, chord
knowledge, and accompaniment skills, all of which will be accomplished through solo and
ensemble playing. The course is designed to accommodate students who have successfully
completed ―Guitar I‖. Students completing the course will extend their skills set, providing the
basis for a lifetime of musical learning and performance.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
demonstrate through performances a working knowledge of music literacy in both standard
notation and guitar tablature
demonstrate knowledge of the guitar fretboard in fifth and higher positions
demonstrate through performance a working knowledge of barre chords/movable chord
forms
demonstrate a working knowledge of basic scales
apply technical knowledge to the performance of solo and ensemble pieces, as well as
accompaniments with complex strumming and finger picking patterns
demonstrate the ability to improvise
Music Theory Semester 3 credits
(7530) Open to all grades
This course covers the fundamentals of music literacy, ear training and harmony. The common
elements of music will be studied through work that includes listening to, reading, writing,
analyzing, and performing music. Students will study counterpoint, four-part harmony and voice
leading technique from the common practice period (1700-1900). Previous musical experience
(instrumental or vocal) is recommended, but not required, for this course.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
demonstrate a working knowledge of music literacy skills
demonstrate a working knowledge of basic traditional western music theory
apply theoretical knowledge to the understanding of music composed by others and by
themselves
Chorus All Year 3 credits
(7590) No prerequisite
Chorus is a performing ensemble rehearsing daily to produce a rich musical experience for
students who wish to sing. Vocal pieces, chosen to fit the ensemble, may include classical, early
music, and/or contemporary pieces, popular music, and show tunes. Individual vocal techniques
will be learned to insure and enhance healthy vocal production. Group vocal techniques will be
explored for the purpose of creating a collective choral sound. Ear-training will be an integral
part of the class. Musical language will be studied, including notation and dynamics. Students
will help to determine the musical path the ensemble takes.
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Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
sing in an ensemble of choral music in several parts
work cooperatively toward a balanced and musical ensemble
recognize intervals and simple chord structure
sing with an understanding of good vocal production
interpret and execute basic music notation
Concert Band All Year 3 credits
(7579) Open to all grades
Prerequisite: 2 years of instrumental performance experience on a woodwind, brass or
percussion instrument and/or consent of the Director
This ensemble studies, rehearses, and performs a wide variety of musical styles. For the winter
sports season, this group takes the role of Pep Band and performs at a limited number of school
and home sporting events. For the remainder of the school year, the group takes the role of
Concert Band and performs at two evening concerts and graduation. Additional Concert Band
performances may be scheduled.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
demonstrate reasonable progress on their instrument
perform their part and demonstrate well-developed ensemble skills
analyze and interpret music notation
perform musical selections with stylistic accuracy
evaluate their own performance as well as that of the ensemble
Concert Band & Chorus SPLIT OPTION All Year 3 credits
(7589) Open to all grades
Concert Band & Chorus SPLIT OPTION allows students to participate in both ensembles by
alternating rehearsal days. See Concert Band and Chorus descriptions for more information
about each ensemble.
Jazz Band All Year 6 credits
(7580) Open to all grades
Prerequisites: Rhythm Section consent of the Director (by audition)
Front Line: 1 year of Concert Band and consent of the Director (by audition)
This ensemble studies, rehearses and performs music in a wide variety of jazz styles. Emphasis
is placed on the collaborative development of musical arrangements by members of the band.
The Jazz Band performs for multiple required performances throughout the school year.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
demonstrate reasonable progress on their instrument
perform their part and demonstrate well-developed ensemble skills
demonstrate progress in improvising in a stylistically appropriate manner
analyze and interpret music notation
evaluate their own performance as well as that of the ensemble
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Concert Band - audit (7599)
The audit option is available only with Department approval and is intended for students who
have a scheduling conflict that precludes full-time participation in the bands.
Jazz Band - audit (7609)
The audit option is available only with Department approval and is intended for students who
have a scheduling conflict that precludes full-time participation in the bands.
Chorus audit (7619)
The audit option is available only with Department approval and is intended for students who
have a scheduling conflict that precludes full-time participation in the bands.
THEATRE
Introduction to Filmmaking Semester 3 credits
(7850) Open to Juniors and Seniors
Students will be introduced to the various stages of film production, which will take them from an
original concept through to a final product suitable for public screening. After studying the short
film as an art form, students will write their own short scripts, which they will then cast, direct,
shoot on digital video, and edit on digital editing software. Students will then present their films
for class discussion and analysis, after which they may choose to submit their work to various
film festivals throughout the world. Students will produce films together during class while they
shoot their own exercises and films outside of class. Access to a digital video camera would be
helpful, though equipment will be available for students to borrow. When students use
department equipment, they are responsible for replacing any lost, damaged, or stolen
equipment. Although not a prerequisite, students would benefit from taking Film As Literature
before taking Introduction to Filmmaking.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
make a good short film after viewing and discussing the work of both established and novice
filmmakers
understand how to be critical viewers of film
write and revise at least two short scripts of between 5-10 pages
understand how the various elements of pre-production work, including scheduling, casting,
location scouting, and coverage, as well as some legal issues related to film production
(copyright and clearances)
operate a digital video camera to get a variety of different shots
understand how different shot types are used to achieve a certain effect on an audience
use other film-related equipment, including a tripod and lights
direct effectively to get the performances they want from their actors
use digital editing software
produce at least four short films based on original scripts
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Acting Workshop Semester 3 credits
(7790) Open to all students
Note: This course requires no prior experience or expertise in acting. All skill and grade levels
are welcome.
This course explores how an actor prepares for a performance by carefully thinking (and making
clear, specific decisions) about character, motivation, relationships, situation, and conflict; thus,
acting essentially becomes reacting to these ―given circumstances‖ of a specific scene. In fact,
if an actor spends enough time and thought building a scene with this necessary mental
preparation, acting becomes easier work because the actor believes and lives within a scene.
Most of this course is spent building believable scenes through such thoughtful and careful
preparation. We will discuss how to use the voice, body, and props to bring a character, and
thus a scene, to dramatic life. We will present scenes to the class for critique and discussion,
with a constant focus on how to improve our acting skills. In addition to the scene study
component of the course, students will also participate in improvisations and various other
acting exercises.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will:
understand how acting is truly re-acting to the specific choices you, as an actor, make
given the details of a scene
understand the importance of acting preparation, which includes building the "given
circumstances" of a scene before and during the rehearsal process
understand the concepts of internal and external action as they apply to character building
and action within a scene
understand how the voice, body, movement, and props contribute to the building of a scene
understand scene pacing and the concept of "beats" within a scene
be able to present a believable scene that demonstrates strong preparation and specific
choices the actor made during the rehearsal process
be able to provide insightful and helpful feedback to fellow actors
VISUAL ARTS
Art 2D 3 Classes per Cycle All Year 3 credits
(7700) Open to all grades
Art 2D is designed for students who wish to pursue the skills, techniques, and media used in the
construction of two-dimensional artwork. This class will explore the fundamental requirement for
art-making perception. Students will learn to see and to assemble artwork by using the five
basic components of drawing: the perception of edges, spaces, relationships, lights/shadows,
and the perception of the whole as well as harnessing the elements of art and principles of
design to achieve meaningful and expressive work. Students will also enhance their ability to
manipulate a 2D surface with a variety of media and to manage color across its attributes: hue,
value, and intensity. Future AP Studio Art Students are urged to take this course!
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
display drawing skills enhanced by greater perceptual understanding
display individual style by focusing on personal technique
perceive and illustrate edges, spaces, lights and shadows from observation
make informed decisions on composition, color, shape, and content relationships across a
variety of mediums
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Art 3D 3 Classes per Cycle All Year 3 credits
(7710) Open to all grades
Art I Three Dimension is designed for students who wish to pursue the skills, techniques, and
media used in the construction of three-dimensional artwork. Areas that may be explored are
functional process-driven techniques and tools used to design, implement, and construct a
variety of three- dimensional artwork, the use of the elements of art and principles of design to
achieve meaningful and expressive work, and a variety of media unique to the specific process
being explored. Learning activities may include paper mache, plaster, wire, cardboard, and
found object assemblage.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
display proficient understanding of a variety of processes used in the construction of three-
dimensional art
translate personal vision into a three-dimensional art piece
use the elements of art and principles of design to reflect their artistic intent in their art work
Ceramics I Semester 3 credits
(7720) Open to grades 9, 10, 11, 12
Ceramics is designed for students who wish to pursue the skills and techniques required to
produce fired and glazed ceramic pieces. Construction techniques may include: pinch, coil, slab,
and the use of ceramic tools, as well as the potter‘s wheel. Glaze applications may include: low-
fire glazes including underglaze and majolica painting. Learning activities will include the
construction of both functional and sculptural forms. Students will also be introduced to the firing
process as they learn to work with clay in its different stages.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
demonstrate acquired skills in the use of pottery equipment: potter's wheel, pug mill, and
hand built techniques
demonstrate spatial intelligence as it applies to creating 3D art work
transform a 2D concept into a 3D form
display a comfortable understanding and safe use of a variety of ceramic tools, equipment,
and glazes
Ceramics II Semester 3 credits
(7721) Open to grades 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: Ceramics I
Teacher Recommendation
Ceramics II is designed for students who wish to build upon the skills and knowledge obtained
in Ceramics I. Students are expected to have a strong work ethic and a high level of autonomy.
Construction techniques may include figure sculpting and developed wheel throwing. Glaze
applications may include sgraffito, image transfer, designing with surface slip/engobe, and
application of color theory. Learning activities may include the creation of realistic and abstract
pieces, a research project on a Ceramic artist, and collaborative group work. Students will also
assist in the kiln firing process. Emphasis will be placed on the development of a personal style.
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Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
Realistically portray objects and aspects of the human figure in 3-dimensions
Use clay as a method of realistic and abstract representation
Apply hand-building techniques in advanced methods of 3-dimensional construction
Apply the elements of art and principles of design in the creation of a Ceramic piece
Understand and apply principles of color theory in the glazing process
Propose, develop, and complete independent projects
Successfully verbalize and perform the required steps in the kiln firing process
Computer Graphic Design Semester 3 credits
(7730) Open to all grades
Computer Graphic Design provides students with a hands-on introduction to the Adobe
Photoshop software. Photoshop‘s tools and features are explored using a curriculum designed
specifically for Dover-Sherborn students. Each class member is encouraged to put his or her
very own spin on each project, and a scanner is available to import artwork and/or photos into
his or her designs. Special emphasis is placed on the importance of type legibility and resolution
of images.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
demonstrate facility working with Photoshop‘s tools and features such as layer opacity, the
clone stamp, the transform command, layers masks, and filters
demonstrate the ability to create dynamic multi-color designs for a variety of applications,
including brochures, product packaging, and posters
Photography: Film & Darkroom Printing Semester 3 credits
(7740) Open to grades 11, 12
This course explores visual communication with the use of camera, film and printmaking
techniques. The course is taught by lecture, demonstration, field work, darkroom and laboratory
work.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
demonstrate the proper use and care of a camera
understand the principles of composition
demonstrate a variety of photographic techniques
understand the use of photographic images as a medium of creative expression and
communication
Introduction to Photography Semester 3 credits
Digital Photography
(7750) Open to Grades 11, 12
This course investigates the digital medium of photography. Emphasis is placed on composition
and techniques that make our photographs more appealing. Students will learn the basics of
manipulating photographic images using Adobe Photoshop. Prior knowledge of this program is
not required. Student access to a digital camera is helpful but not required.
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Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
understand the primary functions/modes of a digital camera
apply the principles of composition
demonstrate effective use of natural and artificial light
demonstrate techniques that give dimension to an image
improve quality of photographs from snapshots to creative expression
Yearbook Design I 3 Classes per Cycle All Year 3 credits
(7760) Open to grades 10, 11, 12
Yearbook Design I is a year-long course focused on the production of the Dover-Sherborn
yearbook. Staff members use state-of-the-art digital imaging software, such as Adobe
Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, and Adobe InDesign, to create a dynamic visual document of our
school community. Existing knowledge of the Photoshop software is strongly recommended.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
design single and double-page layouts
manipulate all elements of a layout through effective use of software tools and features
collaborate with other staff members to produce a 176-page publication
Yearbook Design II 3 Classes per Cycle All Year 3 credits
(7770) Open to grades 11, 12
Prerequisite: Yearbook Design I and teacher approval
Yearbook Design II is a year-long course focused on the production of the Dover-Sherborn
yearbook, and is open to juniors and seniors in leadership or editorial positions.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
design single and double-page layouts
manipulate all elements of a layout through effective use of software tools and features.
collaborate with other staff members to produce a 176-page publication
prepare digital files for submission to the publisher
Yearbook Design III 3 Classes per Cycle All Year 3 credits
(7780) Open to grade 12 only
Prerequisite: Yearbook Design II and teacher approval
Yearbook Design III is a year-long course focused on the production of the Dover-Sherborn
yearbook, and is open only to seniors in leadership or editorial positions. Seniors in leadership
or editorial positions must be enrolled in the course during all scheduled meeting blocks.
Yearbook Design III will not be offered as an Independent Study.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
Conceptualize, revise, and implement a unique visual theme for the yearbook
design single and double-page layouts
manipulate all elements of a layout through effective use of software tools and features
collaborate with other staff members to produce a 176-page publication
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Silkscreen Printing 3 Classes per Cycle All Year 3 credits
(7830) Open to all grades
This course introduces students to the art of Silkscreen Printing. Using the Photo Emulsion
method, participants will learn how to transform their black and white artwork into brilliant single
and multi-color artwork. Students will be encouraged to create original posters, greeting cards, t-
shirts, etc... Printable fabrics will NOT be supplied.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
prepare black and white artwork for exposure to an emulsion-coated silkscreen
align silkscreens for accurate, "registered" color application
devise effective color combinations in order to create eye-catching designs
Rhythm and Hues: 3 Classes per Cycle All Year 3 credits
Poster Design in American Popular Music
(7840) Open to all grades
Prerequisite: Silkscreen Printing
Weaving its way across decades, styles, and disciplines, this course will examine the creative
parallels between music and art in the 20th & 21st Centuries. A broad scope of musical genres
will serve as the inspiration for art projects in a variety of media. Students with eclectically
curious eyes and ears are encouraged to enroll! Some sample projects include:
- An exploration of Jazz's Bebop era, with an emphasis on the Blue Note album covers of the
50s and 60s
- Psychedelic muse Peter Max and the music that fed his Technicolor creations
- Posters from the golden age of The Grand Ole Opry; the power of "down home" design
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
identify the visual tools employed by graphic artists and designers to promote music
create original art pieces utilizing these elements
recognize the "sight and sound parallels" between visual and musical styles
ADVANCED PLACEMENT ART COURSES
Advanced Placement Studio Art
The College Board offers three performance-based exams that require the completion of a
portfolio in one of the following categories: Drawing, 2D Art and Design, or 3D Art and Design.
Students submit 20 original works of artto College Board via their digital submission process.
The Selected Works section (5 pieces) requires students to demonstrate skillful synthesis of
materials, processes, and ideas. The Sustained Investigation section (15 pieces) requires
students to conduct a sustained investigation based on an inquiry of the student‘s choosing.
The work in this section should reflect ongoing practice, experimentation, and revision. Both
sections of the portfolios require students to articulate information about their work. Students
will only receive Advanced Placement quality point weighting toward their GPA average
upon submitting a portfolio to the College Board.
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Pre-AP Art & Design All Year 6 credits
(7881) Open to grades 11, 12
Prerequisite(s):
Departmental recommendation
Completion of one Studio Art class
Completion of one Digital Art Class
OR
Organized portfolio displaying proficiency in a variety of media; pending department review
This course is intended for highly-motivated art students wishing to begin building a portfolio of
artwork which meets both the portfolio requirements of specific art colleges and the AP Art and
Design College Board scoring criteria. Emphasis will be placed on exploratory work with a
variety of materials and techniques. Students will develop their own creative voice through
engagement in a rigorous contemporary art curriculum. Students will receive Honors credit
weighting toward their GPA upon completion of the course.
Note: Pre-AP Art & Design is not offered as an Independent Study.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
make reasonable choices of 2D and/or 3D media, tools, and techniques to achieve desired
effects in specific projects
develop creative investigation of formal and conceptual issues
engage in art making as an ongoing process that involves informed and critical decision-
making
Summer Assignment: Each student entering pre-AP or AP Studio Art is required to complete
at least one summer assignment, which will be provided by course instructor(s).
AP Art & Design All Year 6 credits
(7862) Open to grades 11, 12
Prerequisite:
Departmental recommendation
Average of B or higher in Pre-AP Art & Design
This course is intended for highly-motivated art students wishing to continue preparation of a
collection of artwork that is developed to meet the portfolio requirements of specific art colleges,
to be used to distinguish themselves in general college applications or to present to the College
Board as an AP Art and Design portfolio. Focus will be on developing an inquiry-based
sustained portfolio. Students will continue to develop their own creative voice through
engagement in a rigorous contemporary art curriculum.
Students will only receive Advanced Placement quality point weighting toward their GPA
average upon submission of a portfolio to the College Board. Student/teacher conference will
determine AP qualification prior to end of term I.
Note: AP Art & Design is not offered as an Independent Study.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
make reasonable choices of 2D and/or 3D media, tools, and techniques to achieve desired
effects in specific projects
develop creative investigation of formal and conceptual issues
engage in art making as an ongoing process that involves informed and critical decision-
making
Summer Assignment: Each student entering pre-AP or AP Studio Art is required to complete
at least one summer assignment, which will be provided by course instructor(s).
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Grade 8
Grade 9
Grade 10
Grade 11
Grade 12
Mathematics
Algebra 1
Honors
Geometry
Honors
Algebra II
Honors
Precalculus
Honors
Precalculus
CP
Algebra II
CP
Geometry
CP
Algebra 1
CP
Algebra 1A
CP
Algebra 1B
CP
Geometry
(2359) CP
Algebra II
(2459) CP
AP
Calculus
BC
AP
Calculus
AB
Calculus
H
AP
Statistics
Probability
& Statistics
CP
Algebra
1/Geom
Small Grp
Financial
Literacy
Honors/CP
Precalculus &
Applied Topics
CP
Algebra 1
CP
Algebra
2/Geom
Small Grp
Geometry
CP
Algebra II
CP
Calculus
CP
Precalculus
CP
Grade 11/12
Elective
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MATHEMATICS
The successful completion of four years of mathematics at the high school is required
for graduation.
Where prerequisites are listed, it is implied that the student has successfully completed the
course. All placements are done by the Mathematics Department.
Small Group Algebra All Year 3 credits
(2160) Open to recommended students
Small Group Geometry All Year 3 credits
(2170) Open to recommended students
Small Group Algebra II All Year 3 credits
(2180) Open to recommended grade students
These courses are designed to help students improve their algebra, geometry and/or
precalculus skills. These courses should be taken concurrently with another course in the
traditional mathematics course sequence.
Note: The credit received for the above listed courses does not count toward the
graduation requirement of 24 credits in mathematics.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
demonstrate improved math skills in those areas studied
improve performance on standardized tests
Pre-Algebra All Year 6 credits
(2150) College Prep
Open to all students in Grade 9
Prerequisite: Recommendation of the Mathematics Department
This course extensively covers the concepts of pre-algebra. The course is designed to prepare
students for Algebra 1.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
have a strong understanding of the positive, negative and rational numbers be able to solve
simple equations
have a basic understanding of geometric figures and principles
be able to appropriately manipulate ratios, proportions, and percentages
have an understanding of the rules and principles of inequalities
have a basic understanding of graphing linear equations in a coordinate plane
have knowledge and understanding of the basic equations for area and volume
perform basic statistical analysis and simple probability
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Algebra I All Year 6 credits
(2101) Honors
(2110) College Prep
Open to Grade 9
Prerequisite: Recommendation of the Mathematics Department
Algebra I Honors/CP is an accelerated, course designed to develop a very thorough
understanding of the framework of algebra.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
manipulate real numbers and algebraic expressions and equations using the rules of
numeric and algebraic operations
solve problems algebraically and graphically, with and without the assistance of a graphing
calculator
solve linear inequalities; linear, quadratic and absolute value equations; and systems of
equations using a variety of methods
calculate probability from both theoretical and empirical situations
communicate their ideas accurately both orally and in writing.
Algebra IA All Year 6 credits
(2240) College Prep
Open to students in Grade 9
Prerequisite: passing Pre-Algebra or recommendation of the Mathematics Department
This course is the first year of a two-year Algebra I sequence. It provides the students with a
solid foundation in the frameworks of Algebra. At the end of this course, the students will have
completed one-half the Algebra I curriculum and will move on to Algebra IB.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
use percents and fractions to solve problems
manipulate real numbers using the rules of numeric and algebraic operations
solve linear inequalities and linear equations using a variety of methods
solve word problems
effectively employ functions to model real-world data relationships
communicate their ideas accurately both orally and in writing
Algebra IB All Year 6 credits
(2250) College Prep
Open to students in Grade 9
Prerequisite: passing Algebra 1A Level 2 (in 8
th
grade) or recommendation of the Mathematics
Department
This course is the second year in the sequence begun in Algebra IA Level 2. It provides the
students with an extension of their algebra skills, and focuses on concepts such as linear and
non-linear functions. The students will be expected to apply these skills to problem solving
situations. At the end of this course, the students will have completed the Algebra I curriculum.
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Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
manipulate real numbers using the rules of numeric and algebraic operations
solve linear inequalities; linear, quadratic and absolute value equations; and systems of
equations using a variety of methods
solve application problems
calculate probability from both theoretical and empirical situations
communicate their ideas accurately both orally and in writing
Geometry Honors All Year 6 credits
(2201) Honors
Open to Grades 9, 10
Prerequisite: B or better in Algebra 1 Honors or recommendation of the Mathematics
Department
In this course, we take an accelerated, rigorous approach to the topics of the traditional
geometry course. Enrichment is achieved through individual projects and student presentations,
the study of symbolic logic, the study of probability and statistics, and the use of calculators and
computers.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
organize work in order to make effective oral and written presentations
develop logical thinking skills using proofs as a vehicle
use symbols, geometric shorthand, calculators, and computers to solve and present
problems concisely and thoroughly
understand the relationships among definitions, postulates and theorems as they relate to
proofs
apply theorems in plane, solid, and analytic
geometry to the solution of problems
perform constructions and prove related theorems
visualize and work with spatial relationships
Geometry All Year 6 credits
(2210) College Prep
Open to Grades 9, 10
Prerequisite: Passing Algebra 1H/Level 1 or recommendation of the Mathematics Department
Students in this course will study traditional and advanced topics in plane and solid geometry.
Emphasis will be placed on the student‘s understanding of the geometric concepts using
inductive reasoning. The following topics are studied: definitions and properties of plane and
solid geometric figures, geometric constructions, perpendicular and parallel lines, polygons,
circles, congruence, similarity, areas, volumes, transformations, and geometric proof.
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
apply postulates, properties and theorems to the solution of non-routine problems
apply the principles of logical (inductive and deductive) reasoning
identify, measure, and construct a variety of geometric figures
apply learned geometric properties in solving problems
calculate areas and volumes of two-dimensional and three-dimensional figures
use calculators and computer programs to solve problems and produce constructions
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Geometry All Year 6 credits
(2359) College Prep
Open to: Grades 9, 10, 11
Prerequisite: passing Algebra I or recommendation of the Mathematics Department
This college preparatory course covers all the topics of a traditional geometry course with a
more numerical approach and a constant review of algebraic methods. The topics covered in
this course include definitions, postulates, theorems, problem solving, perpendicular and parallel
lines, polygons, circles, congruence, similarity, constructions, areas, and volumes. Emphasis is
placed on applications of geometric concepts.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
identify, measure and construct different two-dimensional shapes
calculate areas and volumes of two-dimensional and three-dimensional figures
think critically and logically in problem solving
apply learned geometric properties in solving problems
use calculators and computers appropriately for problem solving and for developing
constructions
Algebra II Honors All Year 6 credits
(2301) Honors
Open to Grades 10, 11
Prerequisite: B or better test & quiz average in Geometry Honors and B or better in Algebra I
Honors or recommendation of the Mathematics Department
This course begins with a comprehensive review and extension of Algebra I topics. It is an
accelerated course to the topics of Algebra II with an emphasis on problem solving and
applications. Extensive use of the TI 84+ graphing calculator is made as students refine their
skills at problem solving, reasoning, representing and communicating mathematical solutions in
preparation for Precalculus.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
manipulate algebraic expressions
solve problems, including application problems, algebraically and graphically, with and
without the assistance of a graphing calculator
solve linear, quadratic, high-order polynomials, exponential, logarithmic, rational, absolute
value and trigonometric equations and systems of equations with multiple variables as well
as systems of inequalities
use functions to analyze real-life data and scenarios
communicate their ideas accurately both orally and in writing
understand real and complex number systems (including sequences, series, permutations
and combinations), compute fluently and make reasonable estimates
Algebra II All Year 6 credits
(2310) College Prep
Open to: Grades 10, 11
Prerequisite: Passing Algebra 1H / Level 1 and passing Geometry H/Level 1 or recommendation
of the Mathematics Department
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This course begins with an extensive review and extension of the topics of Algebra I. New
material is clustered in the areas of number sense and operations; patterns, relations and
algebraic representations; spatial visualization and geometry, and units of measurement in
applications. Extensive use of the TI 84+ graphing calculator is made as students refine their
skills at problem solving, reasoning, representing and communicating mathematical solutions in
preparation for Precalculus.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
understand real and complex number systems (including sequences, series, permutations
and combinations), compute fluently and make reasonable estimates
use mathematical models to represent and quantify relationships (linear, quadratic,
polynomial, exponential, logarithmic) between objects in the real world
use numerical, graphical and algebraic methods to represent and solve problems
analyze rates of change in various contexts through linear, power, exponential, or
logarithmic examples
solve application problems
use a graphical calculator appropriately
communicate ideas accurately both orally and in writing
Algebra II All Year 6 credits
(2459) College Prep
Open to Grades 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: passing Algebra I and Geometry or recommendation of the Mathematics
Department
This college preparatory course begins with a comprehensive review and extension of the topics
of Algebra I with emphasis on problem solving and applications, and covers all of the topics in
the traditional Algebra II curriculum. Extensive use of the TI-84+ graphing calculator is made as
students refine their skills at problem solving, reasoning, representing and communicating
mathematical solutions in preparation for Precalculus.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
manipulate algebraic expressions, equations and inequalities
solve problems algebraically and graphically, with and without the assistance of a graphing
calculator
solve linear, quadratic, and absolute value equations, inequalities and systems
use functions to analyze real-life data
solve application problems
use technology appropriately
communicate their ideas accurately both orally and in writing
Precalculus Honors All Year 6 credits
(2401) Honors
Open to: Grades 11, 12
Prerequisite: B or better test & quiz average in Algebra II Honors or recommendation of the
Mathematics Department
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Precalculus Honors is an accelerated course that prepares the student for calculus. Topics
covered include algebraic functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, trigonometry,
equations in polar form including conic sections, parametric equations, vectors, sequences and
series, data analysis, limits and derivatives. In addition, the students are responsible for
derivations and proofs.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
solve problems that demonstrate their mastery of trigonometry
identify and graph equations in both polar and rectangular form
solve problems, including application problems, involving sequences and series
solve problems involving conic sections
solve problems involving parametric equations
solve problems/application problems using vectors
use a graphical calculator appropriately
Optional topics may include:
find the limit of a function using various techniques studied
take the derivatives of implicit and explicit functions and solve problems involving
differentiation of functions such as max/min, related rates, velocity and acceleration
problems
Precalculus All Year 6 credits
(2430) College Prep
Open to: Grades 11, 12
Prerequisite: Passing Algebra II H/Level 1 or recommendation of the Mathematics Department
Precalculus is a full year course that prepares the student for a standard calculus program.
Topics include algebraic functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, polynomial functions,
trigonometry, equations in polar form, vectors, and data analysis.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
solve problems that demonstrate their mastery of trigonometry and other topics studied
identify and graph trigonometric functions and their inverses
solve and graph exponential and logarithmic equations
solve and graph polynomial functions
use a graphing calculator appropriately
Precalculus and Applied Topics All Year 6 credits
(2480) College Prep
Open to Grades 11, 12
Prerequisite: Passing Algebra 2 and recommendation of the Mathematics Department
This course covers many of the standard precalculus topics, but also focuses on a variety of
other topics that will be useful for students to know as they enter college. Topics covered
include a review of linear and quadratic functions, trigonometry, rational functions, logarithmic
and exponential functions, probability and statistics, finance, logic/problem solving, and game
theory.
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Projects and applications (such as building a clinometer and the Biorhythm project) will be
included in both semesters of this course. While the first semester‘s material is typical of a
precalculus course, the second semester is designed to provide students with the opportunity to
explore unique topics in math that they might not otherwise encounter. The focus will be on
preparing the students for math topics that will be encountered after high school.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
solve application problems (such as solving for an unknown in a right/oblique triangle to
demonstrate a mastery of the topics studied)
identify and graph equations
analyze data
understand investment options, credit card finance, mortgages, etc.
use a graphical calculator appropriately
Probability and Statistics All Year 6 credits
(2470) College Prep
Open to grades 11, 12
Prerequisite: Passing Algebra II or recommendation of the Mathematics Department
In this course students will collect and analyze raw data and reach conclusions based on
statistical analysis. Topics include mean, median, mode, standard deviation, normal curve,
correlation, distributions, sampling, hypothesis testing and applications. Extensive use will be
made of the TI-83 Plus graphing calculator and other computer programs.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
observe patterns and departures from patterns in explored data
decide how and what to measure when planning a study
produce models and anticipate patterns using probability theory and simulation
use the statistical capabilities of the TI-83 Plus calculator
Financial Literacy Semester 3 credits
(2610) CP
(2620) Honors
Open to: Grades 11, 12
Prerequisite: Passing Algebra II or recommendation of the Mathematics Department
Financial Literacy is meant to help all students better understand the financial world and be able
to become more stable adults. Students in this course will study a variety of topics to increase
their financial literacy. Emphasis will be placed on student understanding of a combination of the
following topics: Checking, Saving, Types of Credit, Managing Credit, Paying for College,
Budgeting, Investing, Financial Pitfalls, Taxes, Insurance, Financial Psychology.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
Choose and prepare for careers and colleges
Budget and manage spending
Manage features of a bank account
Invest for retirement
Navigate credit, including student loans, credit cards, mortgages, and more…
Avoid common financial pitfalls
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AP Statistics All Year 6 credits
(2552) Advanced Placement
Open to: Grades 11, 12
Prerequisite: Passing Precalculus Honors or B or better test & quiz average in Pre-calculus
Level 1 or recommendation of the Mathematics Department
The course content in AP Statistics will conform to the guidelines established by the AP
Commission. This course is equivalent to a first-year college level course. Extensive use will
be made of the TI-83 plus graphing calculator and other computer programs such as MiniTab.
Students who take this course will be expected to take the Advanced Placement examination in
May.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
observe and interpret patterns and departures from patterns in explored data and
distributions
decide how and what to measure when planning a study
produce models and anticipate patterns using probability theory and simulation
use statistical inference to form models
use the TI 83+ calculator
use rules of probability to predict chance behavior
Summer Assignment: None
AP Calculus BC All Year 6 credits
(2502) Advanced Placement
Open to Grade 12
Prerequisite: B+ or better test & quiz average in Pre-calculus H or recommendation of the Math
Department
This course provides a rigorous introduction to single variable integral and differential calculus.
Emphasis is placed on application of mathematical techniques to a broad range of problem
solving. The syllabus adheres to the BC AP curriculum and students are expected to take the
Advanced Placement Calculus Examination in May.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
integrate and differentiate polynomial, algebraic and transcendental functions
apply differentiation and integration to a wide assortment of problems (optimization, related
rates, volumes, accumulation, arc length, etc.)
solve simple differential equations both analytically and numerically
use Taylor‘s Theorem and convergence tests to investigate infinite series
apply calculus techniques to parametric, polar, and vector valued functions
utilize a graphing calculator as a necessary tool for problem solving
Summer Assignment: None
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AP Calculus AB All Year 6 credits
(2512) Advanced Placement
Open to: Grade 12
Prerequisite: B- or better test & quiz average in Pre-calculus H or recommendation of the
Mathematics Department
This course will prepare students to take the AB level AP Calculus examination. The syllabus
adheres to the AB AP Calculus curriculum. Students taking this course will be expected to take
the Advanced Placement Calculus Examination in May.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
analyze the fundamental planar curves and their transformations, represented both
graphically and algebraically
analyze limits of functions and continuity numerically, graphically, verbally, and algebraically
analyze the derivative as instantaneous rate of change and as the limit of the difference
quotient, both at a point and as a function, to solve application problems
compute derivatives of basic functions via Chain Rule and implicit differentiation
use the integral as an accumulator of area to solve application problems
evaluate definite integrals using the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus and by numerical
approximation and solve application problems involving integrals and anti-derivatives
solve simple differential equation problems analytically
utilize a graphing calculator as an integral tool for problem solving
Summer Assignment: None
Calculus Honors All Year 6 credits
(2491) Honors
Open to: Grade 12
Prerequisite: B+ or better in Precalculus Level 1 or recommendation of the Mathematics
Department
This course provides a survey of the fundamental principles of calculus. In the context of real
scientific and mathematical questions, the collaborative experiences of this class will allow for
the ―discovery‖ of calculus through a series of student investigations and projects. Numerical
methods and geometric visualizations using graphing calculators will have central roles. Due to
the exploratory focus of this class, it will not cover the entire AB Calculus curriculum.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
analyze the fundamental planar curves (linear, quadratic, absolute value, cubic, exponential,
logarithmic, trigonometric, and logistic) and their transformations represented both
graphically and algebraically
analyze limits of functions and continuity numerically, graphically and algebraically
analyze the derivative as instantaneous rate of change and as limit of the difference
quotient, both at a point and as a function, to solve application problems
compute derivatives of basic functions (power, exponential, logarithmic, inverse
trigonometric), via Chain Rule and implicit differentiation
use the integral as an accumulator of area
utilize appropriate technology
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Calculus All Year 6 credits
(2520) College Prep
Open to: Grade 12
Prerequisite: A- or better in Precalculus & Applied Topics CP or B- or better in Precalculus CP
or recommendation of the Mathematics Department
This course provides a survey of the fundamental principles of calculus with a focus on pacing
that can be altered based on student achievement and understanding. In the context of real
scientific and mathematical questions, the collaborative experiences of this class will allow for
the ―discovery‖ of calculus through a series of student investigations and projects. Numerical
methods and geometric visualizations using graphing calculators will have central roles;
differential equations that model dynamical systems will be scrutinized. Due to the exploratory
focus of this class and to a slowed pace to accommodate the enrolled students, it will not cover
the entire Calculus Honors curriculum.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
analyze the fundamental planar curves (linear, quadratic, absolute value, cubic, exponential,
logarithmic, trigonometric, and logistic) and their transformations represented both
graphically and algebraically
analyze limits of functions and continuity numerically, graphically and algebraically
analyze the derivative as instantaneous rate of change and as limit of the difference
quotient, both at a point and as a function, to solve application problems
compute derivatives of basic functions (power, exponential, logarithmic, inverse
trigonometric), via Chain Rule and implicit differentiation
use the integral as an accumulator of the area
utilize appropriate technology
CTY & SOHS Advanced Math Courses**
Linear Algebra
Intro to
Abstract
Algebra
Differential
Equations
Multivariable
Calculus
Multivariable
Differential
Calculus
Multivariable
Integral
Calculus
Real Analysis
Complex
Analysis
Stanford Online High School
(SOHS)
Johns Hopkins Center for
Talented Youth (CTY)
Linear Algebra
Differential
Equations
** Student must have scored a 4 or 5 on the AP Calculus BC exam to qualify for these courses
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Advanced Mathematics Courses offered via Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth
(CTY) and Stanford Online High School (SOHS)
We have researched potential alternatives and have found courses at The Johns Hopkins
Center for Talented Youth (CTY http://cty.jhu.edu/ctyonline) and The Stanford University Online
High School (SOHS - http://ohs.stanford.edu/) to be academically rigorous and well managed.
The table below details the courses we would pre-approve from each of these schools.
School
Course
Pre-requisites
DS Credit
CTY
Linear
Algebra
Qualifying math score & a score of 4 or
5 on the AP Calculus BC exam
6 DS Mathematics credits
Multivariable
Calculus
Qualifying math score & a score of 4 or
5 on the AP Calculus BC exam
6 DS Mathematics credits
Differential
Equations
Qualifying math score & a score of 4 or
5 on the AP Calculus BC exam
6 DS Mathematics credits
Introduction
to Abstract
Mathematics
Qualifying math score & successful
completion of Linear Algebra,
Multivariable Calculus, and Differential
Equations
6 DS Mathematics credits
SOHS
Multivariable
Differential
Calculus (Fall
only)
A score of 4 or 5 on the AP Calculus BC
exam
6 DS Mathematics credits
Multivariable
Integral
Calculus
(Spring only)
Multivariable Differential Calculus &
consent of instructor
6 DS Mathematics credits
Linear
Algebra (Fall
only)
A score of 4 or 5 on the AP Calculus BC
exam or Multivariable Differential
Calculus & consent of instructor
6 DS Mathematics credits
Differential
Equations
(Spring only)
Successful completion of Linear Algebra
& consent of instructor
6 DS Mathematics credits
Real Analysis
Successful completion of Multivariable
Integral Calculus & Linear Algebra
6 DS Mathematics credits
Complex
Analysis
Successful completion of Real Analysis
6 DS Mathematics credits
It should be noted that these courses are not for the light-hearted! These are advanced
mathematics courses that are extremely challenging. Only our best Calculus BC students
should be considering these alternatives.
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Considerations
1. Qualifications Students considering this option must have completed AP Calculus BC
and earned a 4 or 5 on the AP Calculus BC exam.
2. Admissions each school has its own admissions process that includes, among other
things, standardized test scores. Students considering these options will need to
manage this admissions process independently (including making sure to meet the
admissions process timeline set by the online school). CTY has a rolling admissions
process that can be completed at any time. However, DSHS recommends that a
student apply for admission to the following academic year by April of the current
academic year. SOHS has a rolling admissions process, but admission for the following
academic year should be completed by February 15
th
of the current academic year.
3. Cost since these courses are all above and beyond those offered at DSHS, the
individual student must cover all costs. Costs as currently listed for each school are
shown below
School
Cost by course
Additional Costs
CTY
Courses are Individually Paced, but typically
take 6 months to complete. Current costs
are formulated by the number of months a
student chooses:
3 months - $860
6 months - $1,665
9 months - $2,385
Costs of any book(s) used is
additional
SOHS
Courses are to be completed according to
the academic calendar found at
http://ohs.stanford.edu/academics Current
cost is $5,130 per course.
Costs of any book(s) used is
additional
4. Work load
CTY quotes at least 1 hour per day, 5 days per week not including weekly email
communication with the course instructor.
SOHS quotes 8-10 hours per week including online discussions (two 1-1.5 hour
discussions required per week), viewing lectures, and completing assignments
outside of class time.
5. Supervision - While we want to allow for flexibility in terms of scheduling (if the student
does not take another DSHS class, he or she will be assigned to a DR for this period),
we want to have some oversight of the progress a student is/is not making.
6. Students choosing one of these courses will report to the Mathematics department head
on a quarterly basis. This communication will allow us a view into the student progress
as he or she moves through the course.
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Grade 9
Grade 10
Grade 11
Grade 12
Junior / Senior Electives
AP Biology
Advanced Topics in
Biology
Environmental Research
Engineering (see
Technology Engineering &
Computer Science)
Anatomy & Physiology
(10-12)
AP Chemistry
AP Physics
Astronomy
Marine Science
Forensic Science
Biology CP (3219)
Biology CP
Biology H
Small Group Biology
Chemistry H and/or
Elective
Chemistry CP and/or
Elective
Chemistry CP (3319)
Small Group
Chemistry
Physics H
and/or Elective
Physics CP
and/or Elective
Electives
(see Below)
Small Group Physics
Science
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SCIENCE
The successful completion of three years of Science at the high school is required for
graduation.
The courses in Science are designed to provide a strong foundation for the future scientist or
engineer as well as a basic understanding and appreciation of science for the future citizen in
our highly technological society. All courses are highly laboratory-oriented.
While three years (18 credits) of science are required for graduation, students planning careers
in science, medicine, or technology should take a course each year. The recommended
sequence is Biology, Chemistry, and Physics with electives typically taken during junior and/or
senior year.
The Science Department adheres to the Massachusetts Science and Technology/ Engineering
Frameworks Policy on Dissection and Dissection Alternative Activities which states the
following:
“Courses that offer dissection as a learning activity should, upon written request by a student’s
parent/guardian, permit a student who chooses not to participate in dissection to demonstrate
competency through an alternative method.”
Small Group Biology All Year 3 credits
(3220)
Small Group Biology is a small group skills class offered to students in CP Biology in need of
additional support in CP Biology and in preparation for the MCAS test in Biology.
Note: The credit for this course does not count towards the graduation requirement of 18 credits
in Science.
Biology All Year 6 credits
(3201) Honors
Open to all grades with recommendation of the Science Department
Prerequisite: A- in 8
th
Grade Science and B+ in Algebra I Honors and recommendation of the
8
th
grade Science Teacher
This course is designed for the student who has demonstrated high academic achievement and
is interested in the biological sciences. The emphasis in this course is on the following topics:
The study of Evolution and Genetics, an introduction to cell
biology, ecology, diversity, structure and function and the biological basis of behavior.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
demonstrate the ability to design and solve problems of a biological nature in both individual
and group settings
apply knowledge of biological concepts to make informed decisions about health and
environmental issues
draw conclusions from analysis of biological systems
communicate their thoughts via formal laboratory write-ups
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Biology All Year 6 credits
(3210) College Prep
Open to all grades with recommendation of the Science Department
This course is designed to provide the student with a diverse background in biological science.
Laboratory experience with major biological phenomena is designed to support an
understanding of the important concepts, principles, and theories of modern biology. Emphasis
will be placed on the following topics: characteristics of living things, chemistry, cell biology,
genetics, evolution, ecology and principles of anatomy and physiology.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
understand the characteristics of living organisms and how things interact
make intelligent decisions regarding issues in the community and environment
demonstrate a proficiency in the application of the scientific method
demonstrate proper usage of scientific equipment
obtain and evaluate the validity of scientific information through currently available resources
Biology All Year 6 credits
(3219) College Prep
By recommendation of the Science Department
This course provides students with a basic overview of fundamental biological concepts.
Through structured teacher support, class discussions, collaborative group work, and lab
activities, students will study the basic biological concepts. These concepts will align with the
MA State Frameworks for high school biology. The main concepts will be focused on cellular
biology, genetics, anatomy and physiology, ecology, evolution, and the chemistry of life.
This course is designed for students who require additional support and benefit from learning at
a pace that is suitable to their learning style.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
understand the characteristics of living organisms and how things interact
make intelligent decisions regarding issues in the community and environment
demonstrate a proficiency in the application of the scientific method
demonstrate proper usage of scientific equipment
obtain and evaluate the validity of scientific information through currently available resources
AP Biology All Year 6 credits
(3552) Advanced Placement
Open to Grades 11 &12
Prerequisite: Grade of B or better in both Biology Honors and Chemistry Honors and
recommendation of the Science Department.
This course is designed for students who intend to specialize in biological sciences or for those
who want to obtain a thorough knowledge of biology as part of their general education.
Advanced Placement Biology is the equivalent of a first year college biology course. Six general
areas are intensively studied: molecules, cells, genetics, evolution, organisms, and populations.
Students must be willing to work at a fast pace and be capable of working independently during
the school year as well as during the summer prior to the course. The course will encourage the
development of skills such as detailed observation, experimental design, data interpretation,
74
statistical analysis and techniques of research. Students who take this course will be expected
to take the Advanced Placement examination in May. Most colleges, in turn, grant credit or
advanced placement to those who have done well on the examination.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
demonstrate an understanding of current techniques in scientific investigations
demonstrate an understanding of the process of scientific research
demonstrate an understanding of the nature of science
appreciate the hierarchical organization of the inter-relationships of living organisms
obtain and evaluate the validity of scientific information through currently available resources
Summer Assignment:
This course requires that a summer assignment be completed prior to starting class in the fall.
The summer assignment and textbooks will be provided for students in June.
Advanced Topics in Biology All Year 6 credits
(3501) Honors
Open to Grades 11, 12
Prerequisite: Grade of B or better in both Biology and Chemistry and recommendation of the
Science Department
This is a rigorous course in Biology designed for students who have the ability to undertake in-
depth investigations. Laboratory experience with major biological phenomena is designed to
support an understanding of important concepts in modern Biology. Such in-depth topics may
include: enzymes, transfer of energy, molecular genetics, and/or dissection.
Upon successful completion of this course students will be able to:
demonstrate proficiency in the application of the scientific method through experimental
design
demonstrate an understanding of current techniques in scientific investigations
demonstrate an understanding of the process of scientific research
understand the genetics of living organisms on a molecular level
understand the general biochemistry of living organisms
obtain and evaluate the validity of scientific information through currently available resources
Anatomy and Physiology Semester 3 credits
(3751) Honors
(3760) College Prep
Open to Grades 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: Biology, concurrent enrollment in Chemistry and recommendation of the Science
Department
This course is designed as a one semester study of the form and function of animal and human
life. The premise of the course is to provide the student interested in nursing, physical therapy,
or medical careers an opportunity to study how cells, tissues, organs, and organ systems are
coordinated to function as an organism. The class includes laboratory studies and dissection.
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Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
demonstrate an understanding of the structure and function of all of the systems of the
human body
apply knowledge gained to make informed decisions that impact their health
apply knowledge learned to clinical situations
understand the concept of homeostasis in body systems and how it relates to the stable
chemical and physical conditions of the internal fluid environment that bathes the body's
cells
Chemistry All Year 6 credits
(3301) Honors
Open to Grades 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: Grade of B- or better in Biology Honors and Geometry Honors and
recommendation of Biology teacher
Chemistry Honors is designed for the college bound student seeking an understanding of
introductory chemical principles. This is an accelerated course with a strong emphasis on
mathematics and laboratory investigations. The course will develop the modern atomic and
kinetic theories of matter. Special emphasis will be placed on the role of chemistry in the real
world. Selected topics to be studied are the mole concept, atomic theory and structure, chemical
bonding, principles of chemical reactions, molecular structure and organic chemistry. A rigorous
laboratory program involving theoretical and practical applications is an integral part of the
course.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
demonstrate a conceptual understanding of basic chemical concepts
use mathematical and scientific skills in problem solving
gather scientific information from laboratory work
use various technologies for measurement, data analysis and approximation
Chemistry All Year 6 credits
(3310) College Prep
Open to Grades 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: Completion of Biology and Completion of Geometry, or B or better in Algebra 1
(2259) and recommendation of Biology teacher
College Preparatory Chemistry is designed for the college bound student who is seeking an
understanding of chemistry as a pure science, and in its applications to the world. The course
develops the modern atomic theory to explain the relationship between the properties of
elements and how they chemically combine. Selected topics to be studied are: bonding, the
principles of chemical reactions, the periodicity of elements, acids and bases and organic
chemistry.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
demonstrate an understanding of basic chemical concepts
use scientific tools in carrying out experiments
develop problem solving and critical thinking skills
gain an understanding of the impact of chemistry in society
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Chemistry All Year 6 credits
(3319) College Prep
Prerequisite: Completion of Biology and by recommendation of the Science Department
This course provides students with a basic overview of fundamental chemistry concepts.
Through structured teacher support, class discussions, collaborative group work, and lab
activities, students will study basic chemistry concepts. These concepts will align with the MA
State Frameworks for high school chemistry. The main concepts will be focused on atomic
theory and structure, chemical nomenclature, the mole concept, the principles of chemical
reactions, bonding, and gas laws.
This course is designed for students who require additional support and benefit from learning at
a pace that is suitable to their learning style.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
demonstrate an understanding of basic chemical concepts
use scientific tools in carrying out experiments
develop problem solving and critical thinking skills
understand the impact of chemistry in society
obtain and evaluate the validity of scientific information through currently available
resources
Small Group Chemistry All Year 3 credits
(3330)
Prerequisite: Recommendation of the Biology Teacher
Small Group Chemistry is a small group skills class offered to students in CP Chemistry in need
of additional support.
Note: The credit for this course does not count towards the graduation requirement of 18 credits
in Science.
AP Chemistry All Year 6 credits
(3702) Advancement Placement
Open to Grades 11, 12
Prerequisite: B+ in Chemistry H and B in Algebra II H and recommendation of the Chemistry
teacher. Additional prerequisite if enrolling in 11th grade: concurrent enrollment in Physics H or
recommendation of Chemistry teacher.
The Advanced Placement Chemistry course is equivalent to a first year College Chemistry
course. The curriculum prepares students to take the AP Chemistry Exam for AP credit. Five
general areas are intensively studied: the Structure of Matter, Chemical Bonding, States of
Matter, Physical Chemistry and Chemical Reactions. Advanced laboratory work is done in each
topic area. Students who take this course will be expected to take the Advanced Placement
examination in May. Most colleges, in turn, grant college credit to students who have done well
on the examination.
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Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
use advanced equipment in laboratory analysis
demonstrate an ability to compare, analyze and relate chemical processes
analyze data and generate valid conclusions
demonstrate mastery of the course material on the AP exam
formulate a procedure that will result in real data measurement
Summer Assignment:
Students enrolled in Advanced Placement Chemistry will be required to read and complete an
assignment on the first four chapters of the text prior to starting classes in the fall.
Environmental Research All Year 6 credits
(3601) Honors
(3620) College Prep
Open to Grades 11, 12
Prerequisite: Both Biology and Chemistry and recommendation of the Science Department
This course is designed to incorporate advanced chemical and biological techniques employed
in current environmental research. This course uses an investigative and independent study
approach to explore current environmental topics both nationally and locally. Students carry out
both indoor and outdoor research investigations dealing with water quality analysis, food quality,
air pollution, energy use, agriculture, nature writing, and other related environmental issues.
Upon successful completion of this course students will be able to:
demonstrate an understanding of basic
environmental science concepts.
use scientific tools to carrying out experiments
utilize critical thinking skills to explore environmental issues
make real world connections to current environmental issues
Physics All Year 6 credits
(3401) Honors
Open to Grades 11, 12
Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in Pre-Calculus H (or Pre-Calculus CP with a grade of A in
Algebra II CP) and a grade of B in Chemistry H and recommendation of the Science
Department
This course, designed for future College Science majors, is an intensive study of the concepts
of matter and energy and their interrelation. Emphasis is placed on the development and use of
mathematical techniques to describe physical laws. Extensive use is made of laboratory
investigations which provide the student with opportunity to discover and test physical
relationships. The four major units are Mechanics, Sound and Light, Electricity and Magnetism,
and "Modern Physics".
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
describe the motion of objects (Kinematics) in one and two dimensions
solve problems using Newton's Laws and Conservation of Energy and Momentum
view fundamental physics in a historical context
solve problems involving simple circuits and electric and magnetic fields
use technology to gather, analyze and interpret data from laboratory experiments
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Physics All Year 6 credits
(3410) College Prep
Open to Grades 11, 12
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Chemistry, Algebra II or a grade of B in 2459,
concurrent enrollment in College Prep Pre-Calculus, and recommendation of the Chemistry
teacher
This Physics course is a study of the concepts of matter and energy, and their interrelation. An
emphasis is placed on using laboratory and math skills to understand the physical laws
governing our world. The four major units are Mechanics, Sound and Light, Electricity and
Magnetism, and "Modern Physics".
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
describe the motion of objects (Kinematics) in one and two dimensions
solve problems using Newton's Laws and Conservation of Energy and Momentum
view fundamental physics in a historical context
solve problems involving simple circuits and electric and magnetic fields
use technology to gather, analyze and interpret data from laboratory experiments
Small Group Physics All Year 3 credits
(3420)
Prerequisite: Recommendation of the Chemistry Teacher
Small Group Physics is a small group skills class offered to students in CP Physics in need of
additional support.
Note: The credit for this course does not count towards the graduation requirement of 18 credits
in Science.
AP Physics All Year 6 credits
(3802) Advanced Placement
Open to Grade 12 only
Prerequisite: B+ in Physics Honors, concurrent enrollment in BC Calculus and/or
recommendation of the Science Department
Advanced Placement Physics is equivalent to a first year College Physics course. The areas
covered include: Classical Mechanics, Electricity and Magnetism, Quantum Theory, Physics of
Medical Technologies, Modern Digital and Analog Electronics and Special Relativity. Calculus
will be utilized where appropriate. Students who take this course will be expected to take the
Advanced Placement examination in Mechanics in May. Most colleges, in turn, grant credit or
advanced placement to those who have done well on the examination.
A strong emphasis will be placed on rigorous laboratory experimentation and design. Students
will complete a series of five modern labs, a 4 week Electronics exploration and a long-term
engineering design project in preparation for the Physics Olympics.
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Upon successful completion of the course students will be able to:
Solve sophisticated quantitative, conceptual and design problems.
Derive necessary equations from first principles.
Use technology to gather, analyze and interpret data from laboratory experiments.
Apply differential and integral calculus to problem solving.
Summer Assignment: None
Engineering: All Year 6 credits
(3861) Honors
(3860) College Prep
Open to Grades 10*, 11, 12
*(Grade 10 only upon recommendation of teacher and Dept. Head)
Students may apply the six credits toward either the Science or Technology Engineering
& Computer Science graduation requirement.
Engineering: Science, Technology, and the Design Process is a full year course designed to
introduce students to the world of technology and engineering as a first step in becoming
technologically literate citizens. The course will help students answer the question, ―Why should
I study math, science and engineering if I don‘t plan on a technical career?‖ Through this
course‘s practical real world connections, students will have the opportunity to see how
mathematics, science and engineering are part of their everyday world, and why it is important
for every citizen to be technologically and scientifically literate. Students will also design, build
and program robots to complete tasks in the classroom and in competitions.
Students will develop a deep and rich understanding of the term ―technology
Students will develop their abilities to use the engineering design process
Students will understand the complementary relationship between science,
mathematics, technology, and engineering
Students will understand how advances in technology affect human society, and how
human society determines which new technologies will be developed
Students will be able to apply fundamental concepts about energy to a wide variety of
problems
Students will be able to apply design ideas and programming knowledge in the building
of robots that must complete assigned tasks
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Astronomy Semester 3 credits
(3871) Honors
(3880) College Prep
Open to Grades 11, 12
Prerequisite: BOTH Biology and Chemistry, Algebra II (completed or concurrently enrolled)
This is a one semester course that provides a survey of modern astronomy. The content
includes the history and development of astronomical ideas, as well as an in-depth look at the
science of theoretical and applied astronomy. Students learn how to categorize and classify
astronomical bodies and how to use a telescope as a scientific tool for investigation. Students
participate in evening observations and laboratories, and are expected to complete a long term
exploratory project. Project possibilities include astrophotography, orbit analysis through
observation, advanced web design, and engineering of optical telescopes. Students also
conduct public observations for the community in the school's observatory. Students may
apply the three credits toward either the Science or Technology requirement.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
demonstrate a broad but cohesive knowledge of modern astronomical ideas
utilize mathematics and fundamental physics to do quantitative astronomical analysis
operate a computerized telescope and digital camera as scientific tools for investigation
maintain a webpage documenting work and research done in the class
Marine Science Semester 3 credits
(3571) Honors
(3580) College Prep
Open to Grades 11 and 12
Prerequisite: BOTH Biology and Chemistry
This is a one semester course that provides a survey of the marine sciences, including geology,
chemistry, biology, and geography. Topics include: tsunamis, hurricanes, physical and chemical
oceanography, marine mammals, fish biology, coral reefs, bioluminescence, and marine
pollution. Students study specific marine species through research and dissections to achieve a
better understanding of the interrelationships between these species and their physical
environment. An understanding of this interrelationship is applied to current issues regarding
human impact on the marine environment.
Upon successful completion of this course students should be able to:
demonstrate a broad but cohesive knowledge of the interdisciplinary study of the oceans
recognize major systematic groups of marine organisms and understand how they are
interconnected in the ecosystem
demonstrate an understanding of the structure and function of organ systems in some of the
major systematic groups
use scientific tools to carry out experiments
demonstrate an understanding of human impact on the health of the oceans
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Forensic Science Semester 3 credits
(3971) Honors
(3980) College Prep
Open to Grades 11 and 12
Prerequisite: Both Biology and Chemistry
This is a one semester course that provides a survey of forensic science, including criminalistics
and criminology. This course will focus on the application of scientific principles to matters of
criminal and civil law. Case studies and crime scenarios will be used to help students
understand the implications and issues which emerge as the science of forensics continues to
develop. Emphasis on biology, chemistry and physics concepts will be utilized with laboratory
investigations in order to illustrate the concepts and principles under an inquiry-based
instructional model. Topics investigated include: forensic odontology, entomology,
fingerprinting, anthropology, serology, pathology, chemistry and toxicology, and trace evidence
and criminal law.
Upon successful completion of this course students should be able to:
Define the scope of forensic science
Explain the history and philosophy of forensic science
Identify, collect, and preserve physical evidence
Use scientific tools to carry out experiments
Construct the process of a crime scene investigation
Apply critical thinking and analytical skills to investigate crimes
Apply the principles of forensic pathology in determining the time of death of a victim by
evaluating the stages of decomposition and the science of entomology
Explain how forensic anthropology is used to identify skeletal evidence to obtain data using
a variety of techniques
Analyze evidence without bias
Analyze components of DNA and explain the various methods for obtaining and testing DNA
from a crime scene
SCIENCE TEACHER AIDE One semester No credit
(3899)
Apply to Science Department Head
Any student who is interested in being an aide to a science teacher should submit a request to
the Science Department Head. Duties involve organizing and cataloguing equipment, cleaning
glassware, and setting up labs. If selected, a student reports to a science teacher instead of
his/her Directed Research period.
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Social Studies
Grade 9
Grade 10
Grade 11
Grade 8
Grade 12
U.S.
History
World
History I
Honors
U.S. History
AP
U.S. History
Honors
World History
II
Honors
Geometry
CP 1
World
History I
CP
World
Themes
CP
World History
II
CP
U.S. History
CP
American
Gov. &
Politics
AP
American
Gov. &
Society
H / CP
Economics
H / CP
Facing
History
H / CP
Psychology
H / CP
U.S. History
Part I
CP
U.S. History
Part II
CP
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SOCIAL STUDIES
The successful completion of three years of History at the high school consisting of
World History I & II and United States History is required for graduation.
The Social Studies Department provides course offerings in both history and the social
sciences. The goal of the social studies curriculum is to facilitate the development of critical
thinking skills and to support students in becoming responsible, productive adults.
The Social Studies program seeks to provide students with a greater understanding of important
political, economic, and social issues facing the United States and the world. Students are
challenged to communicate effectively in groups as they work to understand important societal
and individual issues. Critical thinking skills are taught through debating, problem solving, group
decision making, and the writing of position and research papers. In addition, cooperative
learning experiences teach students to work successfully with others. The Social Studies
Department is committed to helping students understand their rights and responsibilities as
citizens and respect and appreciate the diversity of the world’s people.
World History I (500 A.D. to 1760) All Year 6 credits
(4201) Honors
Prerequisite: Recommendation of the 8
th
grade Social Studies Department and A- average
This course proceeds chronologically from the Middle Ages to the Age of Revolutions,
examining the Medieval period, Byzantine and Islamic Civilizations, Africa and the Americas,
Asian cultures, the Renaissance and Reformation, Exploration and Expansion, Absolutism, the
Scientific Revolution and the Enlightenment. The universal patterns of development and the
uniqueness of individual cultures will be explored through thematic analysis of three major
questions: What causes a society or civilization to achieve greatness and to decline? How do
cultures develop and change? How have individual‘s rights and responsibilities to his or her
society varied over time? Students will be challenged to be active participants through both
individual and cooperative group work, critically analyzing and researching historical problems,
textbook and primary source readings, and critical
writing on historical themes and issues.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
understand and apply social studies skills (i.e., spatial, communication, interpretation,
reading, data collection, critical thinking, higher order problem solving and process writing)
explain and evaluate political, social and economic institutions, as well as geographic
concepts which shape the world
analyze, explain and evaluate the chronological order of historical events and recognize the
complexity of historical cause and effect
compare and contrast, and show an empathetic appreciation of diverse world cultures, as
well as individual and societal roles and responsibilities in today‘s global community
World History I (500 A.D. to 1760) All Year 6 credits
(4210) College Prep
Required for grade 9 students
This course covers the same content and has the same student- based outcomes as the
Honors level course. The Honors level course investigates some topics in greater depth.
American Go v.
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Themes in World History I (500 A.D. to 1760) All Year 6 credits
(4150) College Prep
Prerequisite: Recommendation of the Social Studies Department
This course, while covering much of the content in the World History I curriculum, meets the
needs of students whose skill development requires the more intensive emphasis possible in
smaller classes, and a pace which allows for the incorporation of multiple approaches in order to
help students develop an understanding of important historical themes and concepts. The
reading level of materials and writing assignments are modified to meet individual student‘s
needs.
World History II (1760 A.D. to the Present) All Year 6 credits
(4221) Honors
Prerequisite: Recommendation of the Social Studies Department, with an average of B- or
better in preceding Honors history course or A- average in preceding CP history course
This course proceeds chronologically from the Age of Revolutions to the Present, examining the
English Civil War, American, French, and Latin American Revolutions, Napoleonic Europe, the
Industrial Revolution, Growth of Democracy, Nationalism, Imperialism, World Wars, Totalitarian
States, Cold War Societies, Emerging 20th Century Nations, Ethnic Conflicts and Human
Rights, and the Changing World Today. The universal patterns of development and the
uniqueness of individual cultures will be explored through thematic analysis of three major
questions: What causes a society or civilization to achieve greatness and to decline? How do
cultures develop and change? Students will be challenged to be active participants through both
individual and cooperative group work, critically analyzing and researching historical problems,
textbook and primary source readings, and critical writing on historical themes and issues.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
understand and apply social studies skills (i.e., spatial, communication, interpretation,
reading, data collection, critical thinking, higher order problem solving and process writing)
explain and evaluate political, social and economic institutions, as well as geographic
concepts which shape the world
analyze, explain and evaluate the chronological order of historical events and recognize the
complexity of historical cause and effect
compare and contrast, and show an empathetic appreciation of diverse world
cultures, as well as individual and societal roles and responsibilities in today‘s global
community
World History II (1760 A.D. to the Present) All Year 6 credits
(4230) College Prep
Required for grade 10 students
This course has the same content and student- based outcomes as the Honors level course.
However, the Honors level course investigates some topics in greater depth.
AP United States History All Year 6 credits
(4502) Advanced Placement
Open to grades 11, 12
Prerequisite: Recommendation of the Social Studies Department, with an average of B+ or
better in the preceding Honors history course or an A average in preceding CP history course.
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Recommended students not meeting prerequisites will be required to pass a qualifying test
before final placement. All students enrolled in the course must successfully complete rigorous
summer reading and writing assignments.
This course provides students with the analytic skills and factual knowledge necessary to deal
critically with the problems, issues and events in United States history as well as prepare them
for the Advanced Placement Examination. The student, as historian, will be expected to draw
appropriate inferences, to make careful judgments when possible and speculations when
necessary, to ask the right question, to assess historical materials in relation to their reliability
and importance, and to weigh the evidence and interpretations presented in historical
scholarship. This will be accomplished by providing a detailed survey course to give the student
a grounding in the subject matter along with supplementary readings to provide substantive and
thematic coverage of the major periods in the history of our nation. Students who take this
course will be expected to take the Advanced Placement examination in May.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
recall, select and deploy relevant historical knowledge accurately to support a coherent and
logical argument
communicate in a clear and coherent manner using appropriate historical evidence
show an empathetic understanding of individuals and societies in the past; understand the
importance of trying to establish motives
interpret and evaluate a wide range of historical sources and their use as evidence; identify
precisely the limitations of particular sources; compare and contrast a range of sources and
draw a clear, logical conclusion
Summer Assignment:
Students enrolled in the course will be notified by the teacher or someone in the Guidance
Office of the summer reading assignment.
United States History All Year 6 credits
(4401) Honors
Open to grades 11, 12
Prerequisite: Recommendation of the Social Studies Department, with an average of B- or
better in the preceding Honors history course or A- average or better in the preceding CP
history course
This course provides students with the analytic skills and factual knowledge necessary to
critically examine the political, economic and social issues and events in United States history
from the Colonial Period to the Present. The study of our nation‘s history will be explored
through the thematic analysis of four major questions: How have the political concepts of
democracy and the liberty and equality of individuals been reflected in American society at
different times? ―The American Dream‖ is one of upward social and economic mobility. To what
extent has this dream been a reality in our history? What is ―American culture‖ and how has it
developed? How and why has America‘s relationship to other countries of the world developed
and changed? Students will be challenged to be active participants through both individual and
cooperative group work, critically analyzing and researching historical problems, textbook and
primary source readings, and critical writing on historical themes and issues.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
understand and apply social studies skills (i.e., spatial, communication, interpretation,
reading, data collection, critical thinking, higher order problem solving and process writing)
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analyze, explain and evaluate the chronological order of historical events and recognize the
complexity of historical cause and effect
explain and evaluate political, social and economic institutions which have shaped our
nation
compare and contrast, as well as show an empathetic understanding and appreciation of
diverse individuals and cultures that have helped to shape American life and institutions
United States History All Year 6 credits
(4310) College Prep
Open to grades 11, 12
This course has the same content and student- based outcomes as the Honors level course.
However, the Honors level course investigates some topics in greater depth.
United States History Part I (1607 A.D. to 1877) All Year 6 credits
(4320) College Prep
Prerequisite: Recommendation of the Social Studies Department
This course is designed to help students develop an understanding of important historical
themes and concepts. The reading level of materials and writing assignments will meet
individual student‘s needs at an appropriate pace. This course examines United States History
from the Colonial Era through Reconstruction.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
understand and apply social studies skills (i.e., spatial, communication, interpretation,
reading, data collection and process writing)
describe and explain political, economic and social institutions that have shaped our nation
describe and explain the chronological order of historical events and recognize the
complexity of historical cause and effect
compare and contrast as well as show an empathetic understanding and appreciation of
diverse individuals and cultures that have helped to shape American life and institutions
United States History Part II (1877 A.D. to the Present) All Year 6 credits
(4330) College Prep
Prerequisite: Recommendation of the Social Studies Department
This course is designed to help students develop an understanding of important historical
themes and concepts. The reading level of materials and writing assignments will meet
individual student‘s needs at an appropriate pace. This course examines United States History
from the Reconstruction Era to the present.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
understand and apply social studies skills (i.e., spatial, communication, interpretation,
reading, data collection and process writing)
describe and explain political, economic and social institutions that have shaped our nation
describe and explain the chronological order of historical events and recognize the
complexity of historical cause and effect
compare and contrast as well as show an empathetic understanding and appreciation of
diverse individuals and cultures that have helped to shape American life and institutions
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AP American Government & Politics All Year 6 credits
(4742) Advanced Placement
Open to grade 12
Prerequisite: Recommendation of the Social Studies Department and an average of B+ or better
in the preceding Honors history course or A in the preceding CP history course. Recommended
students not meeting prerequisites will be required to pass a qualifying test before final
placement.
All students enrolled in the course must successfully complete rigorous summer reading and
writing assignments.
This course is designed to provide an in-depth look at the structure and operations of the
American Political System. Students will develop a more sophisticated and insightful
understanding of the political process as we examine the founding documents, political culture
and ideology, the role of the media, the policy-making process, and many other interesting and
relevant topics. Students will be challenged to analyze documents, make inferences and utilize
higher order thinking skills in order to understand our political system and how it relates to
contemporary events. Students will conclude this course with the Advanced Placement Exam in
this subject. Students who take this course will be expected to take the Advanced Placement
examination in May.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
understand the purposes, principles, and practices of American government as established
by the Constitution of the United States
understand their rights and responsibilities as citizens and how to exercise these rights and
responsibilities in local, state, and national government
communicate in a clear and coherent manner incorporating relevant knowledge of United
States history in order to provide a better understanding of contemporary political events
Interpret and evaluate important founding documents, historical records, and landmark
cases of the Supreme Court to help formulate conclusions about their role in shaping the
American political system
Summer Assignments:
Students enrolled in the course will be notified by the teacher or someone in the Guidance
Office of the summer reading assignment.
American Government and Society All Year 6 credits
(4701) Honors
(4710) College Prep
Open to grades 11, 12
Prerequisite-Honors: B- average in the preceding Honors course or B average in preceding CP
history course and the recommendation of the Social Studies Department
This course will explore the historical context of our political and legal systems in conjunction
with current event issues. Students will also examine the institutions and processes of our legal
system and government at the national, state and local levels. Daily participation in classroom
activities with varied assessments will encourage students to define their rights and
responsibilities as citizens in a democratic society, and help them to understand America‘s
political and legal heritage.
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Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
Understand legal and political principles, including principles of criminal and constitutional
law, and evaluate critical aspects of our political and legal systems.
Identify and explain the roles of and challenges faced by various individuals and institutions
across national, state, and local government.
Describe the government‘s existing policy on a range of domestic and international issues,
summarize current debate around that policy, and articulate their own position on the
subject.
Describe the role of individuals, political parties, and the media in campaigns and elections.
Consider the way in which some of the most pressing political, economic, and social
challenges facing Americans impact their lives; examine how effectively existing public
policy addresses those issues; and further develop their own view of how public policy
should handle those issues.
Psychology All Year 6 credits
(4601) Honors
(4610) College Prep
Open to grade 12
Prerequisite-Honors: B- average in preceding Honors history courses or B average in
preceding CP history courses and recommendation of the Social Studies Department
This course introduces students to the fundamentals of perception, memory, consciousness,
personality development, patterns of human behavior, and growth from infancy to adolescence,
along with the study of culture, socialization, and the major social institutions and social
problems in modern life.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
understand various topics related to the behavioral sciences
develop critical thinking skills
demonstrate behavioral research, writing and discussion skills
understand the various themes that play significant roles in each stage of development from
childhood through adulthood
Facing History and Ourselves/Contemporary Issues All Year 6 credits
(4751) Honors
(4760) College Prep
Open to grades 11, 12
Prerequisite-Honors: B- average in the preceding Honors course or B average in preceding CP
history course and the recommendation of the Social Studies Department
The Facing History and Ourselves curriculum examines the roots and impact of oppression and
intolerance and also explores movements for social and political progress and change over the
course of the 20
th
Century. Major units of the course include the American Civil Rights
Movement, the Armenian Genocide and genocide denial, the Holocaust, the historic
development of international law and Human Rights and their present-day applications, the
Vietnam War, the Cambodian Genocide, the Rwandan Genocide the collapse of communism in
eastern Europe, the Bosnian Genocide, the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict, the Darfur genocide, the
War on Terror, and the Arab Spring. In addition to learning the historic facts and background to
key moments in history, students will also analyze the role that individual and social identity play
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in the unfolding of historical events and social movements. Additionally, students will consider
the ethical and moral implications of the actions of both individuals and social groups in the
unfolding of historical events and social movements. This year-long elective allows students the
opportunity to delve deeper in to the history of the 20
th
and 21
st
centuries. The curriculum
encourages students to contemplate their own role in society and the complex nature of human
interaction. Discussion plays a significant role in the day-to-day running of the class, and
students are both expected and encouraged to develop informed opinions and analysis of the
course material. The course makes regular connections to current events as they relate to
themes and material from its units of study.
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
promote the development of a more humane and informed citizenry and to make the
―essential‖ connections between history and the moral choices students must confront in
their lives
realize and appreciate the perspective of a victim, a survivor-a person who experiences the
injustices and sufferings inflicted upon them because they are "different"
draw conclusions about and better understand the role of human nature as related to
conscience, moral responsibilities, human cruelty, empathy, and acts of courage
better understand and appreciate the social nature and dehumanizing effect of stereotyping
and scapegoating and that dehumanization is a precursor of the acceptance of
discrimination, isolation, and violence
move from thought to judgment to participation and commitment as the moral foundation of
our future with the hope of building a more civil society based upon mutual respect and a
better appreciation of the worth and dignity of all people.
Economics All Year 6 credits
(4901) Honors
(4910) College Prep
Open to grade 12
Prerequisite-Honors: B- average in preceding Honors history course or B average in preceding
CP history course and the recommendation of the Social Studies Department
In this course we examine basic types of economic systems. Each system will be explored
through the examination of supply and demand, the investment markets, fiscal and monetary
policy, economic development, international trade, governmental regulation and consumer
advocacy. We will apply economic principles to everyday situations.
Upon successful completion of this course, a student will be able to:
name and define the common terms used in contemporary economics
describe the interaction of the primary determinants of supply and demand
compare production and distribution systems in different economic systems
discern among the various vehicles for saving, investing or borrowing money
understand different methods of taxation, including their goals, costs and benefits
compare and contrast business models and gauge the effectiveness of each model
comprehend the international nature of the current world economy
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Technology Engineering & Computer Science
(All courses listed below can be used towards 18 credit elective graduation requirement)
Engineering &
Industrial Arts
Industrial Technology I
Construction
Full year or Semester
Industrial Technology II
Manufacturing
Full year or Semester
TV and Media
Industrial Technology
III
General Contracting
Computer Science
& Digital Literacy
Intro to CAD
Web Design Using
HTML & CSS
Computer Programming
with Java Script
Technology &
Society
Social Media
Literacy
TV and Media I
TV and Media II
Astronomy
iOS App
Development
Video Game
Design
TV and Media III
Advanced Placement
Computer Science
Principles
Engineering
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TECHNOLOGY ENGINEERING & COMPUTER SCIENCE
The successful completion of 18 credits in Technology Engineering & Computer Science
and/or Fine & Performing Arts at the high school is required for graduation.
All courses that REQUIRE access to the network and Internet require the appropriate
signatures in the boxes indicated on the Student Registration Verification Information Form.
Introduction to CAD Semester 3 credits
(6100) Open to all grades
Prerequisite: None
This course introduces the students to the use of Computer Assisted Drawings (CAD). Using both
CAD and Chief Architect software packages students will learn to design two and three-dimensional
drawings. Engineering and Architectural drawings will be covered. The use of colors, materials, and
design elements will be used on architectural drawings. Students who are interested in pursuing
careers in graphic design, architecture, interior design or engineering would benefit from this course.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
create two-dimensional schematic drawings or plans
create three-dimensional house renderings
demonstrate facility with various modeling techniques
incorporate computer assisted drawings
understand design elements related to interior and exterior design
Computer Programming with Java Script Semester 3 credits
(6280) Open to all grades
Prerequisite: None
This is an introductory project-based learning course in computer science using JavaScript as the
programming language. The course will emphasize problem-solving and design involving abstraction
and object-oriented techniques. Students will develop a solid foundation of core programming
principles and techniques that will allow them to easily adapt to other, more complex, programming
languages. Students interested in a career in computer programming, or just interested in seeing what
programming is all about, will benefit from this course.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
understand the dynamic and interactive elements and behaviors behind web pages
write programs that make decisions, iterate commands, and display graphics using Javascript
code
solve problems that require logical use of a computer
discuss programming and programming techniques
learn techniques for tracking down and fixing errors
create simple games using JavaScript coding events, loops, and conditional statements
Social Media Literacy Semester 3 credits
(6300) Open to all grades
Prerequisite: None
Social media is here to stay. We have seen its use in political campaigns, national uprisings, social
movements, marketing campaigns, data collection, and content delivery. Social media can serve as
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an invaluable resource for communicating and obtaining information but, it can also be riddled with
questionable and inaccurate content; sometimes with damaging consequences. This course will help
students develop skills to become educated ―consumers‖ of social media as well as responsible,
active ―participants‖ in social media.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
discuss the development of social media and how it has changed the way in which our society
communicates and shares information
evaluate the uses of social media in a free society vs. a non-free society
evaluate the credibility of various social media ―authors‖
develop a plan for their social media ―digital footprint‖
develop strategies for ―reputation management‖
use social media as a method to ―expand their voices‖
write concisely with purpose and credibility on various social media platforms
evaluate how companies and advertisers are using social media to promote their business and
product
discuss and display responsible use of social media
develop skills in website design and blogging
Web Design Using HTML & CSS Semester 3 credits
(6260) College Prep
Open to all grades
Prerequisite: None
This is an introductory project-based learning course designed to develop a student's understanding
of coding skills as they pertain to developing web pages. Students will learn how to build simple web
pages using HTML (Hypertext Markup Language) and (CSS) Cascading Style Sheets. Students will
learn how to add backgrounds, images, hyperlinks, and lists to their web pages. Students interested in
a career in computer science, or just interested in seeing what programming is all about, will benefit
from this course.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
Identify the basic elements of a web page with good and bad design
Learn how to control web page fonts and styles with CSS
Develop web pages using HTML
Develop problem solving skills as they ―debug‖ their programs
Evaluate websites for valid content
Technology and Society Semester 3 credits
(6290) College Prep
Open to all grades
Prerequisite: None
This course highlights the ongoing changes in technology and its overall effects on society. In a
project-based learning setting, students will begin with an overview of society and its relationship to
technology and change. They will then explore how technology has influenced our lives for better or
worse and gain an insight to the associated ethical and legal ramifications surrounding its use. Using
critical thinking and problem solving, students will research, evaluate, collaborate, and discuss various
topics currently in the forefront. Through the creation of blogs, public service announcements,
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discussions, videos and documentaries, students will develop their point of view, present their
findings, and share ideas with a socially aware audience. There will be several online readings,
projects and formative assessments throughout the semester to support teaching and learning.
This course will help students identify:
the meaning of technology
the relationship of technology and ethics
inventions that helped to bring about technological change
social impact of technology throughout some areas in history
various ways that biases affect our perception and use of technology
public policy implications of technological innovation
legal and ethical aspects of technology advancements in several fields
how to create a blog as a method to communicate views on several topics.
iOS App Development Semester 3 credits
(6270) Open to all grades
Prerequisite: None
This is an introductory project-based learning course designed to develop a student's understanding
of coding skills as they pertain to developing websites. This course introduces students to Apple‘s
powerful, beginner-friendly programming language, Swift. Students, working within the Swift
Playground app, will learn the fundamentals of programming and iOS app development. The Swift
Playground (an iPad app) provides an interactive environment with built-in lessons and challenges
that teach fundamental coding concepts. Students interested in a career in computer science, or just
interested in seeing what programming is all about, will benefit from this course.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
develop skills in problem solving, communication, and creativity
understand core coding concepts such as: algorithms, boolean and logic operators, commands,
functions, parameters, loops, conditional statements, variables, operators, types and initialization
place and manipulate images in conjunction with touch events and coordinates
troubleshoot, test and debug their code (using development tools such as Code.org and Glide)
develop a basic iOS app for an iPhone and/or iPad
Video Game Design and Development Semester 3 credits
(6320) Open to all grades
Prerequisite: Intro to Programming , iOS App Design, and/or department approval
Do you enjoy playing games or are you interested in a video game design career? Then why not learn
the process involved in designing and creating them! This project-based course explores the aspects
of game design / development prevalent today. Throughout this course, students are introduced to a
2D and 3D video game environment where they will work collaboratively to design, develop, and test
their original digital games within an industry design game engine and standards.
In addition to coding, there will be an emphasis on the video game industry and process where you
will learn about the roles of a 2D/3D animator, level designer, audio and lighting creator, artist,
storywriter and programmer. Here you will experience the process that professionals use in a real
world career setting. Coding and design work will be focused on learning the video game program
through small projects, with a final assessment that requires you to create an original game of your
own.
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Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
Demonstrate basic understanding of game design principles.
Demonstrate basic game programming ability.
Overview of visual art production processes.
Skillfully apply fundamental game design, visual art, narrative development and programming
concepts in the development of an original and creative game.
Develop clear and concise documentation for lab assignments and original games.
Analyze popular games from commonly used genres, examining intent, form and functionality.
Develop an independent analysis of a specific game.
Demonstrate user-friendly design in lab assignments and original games.
Develop an effective understanding of the various segments of the game development industry
and the different employment opportunities within that industry.
Understand how to collaborate and debug code and design to achieve success in coding output.
AP Computer Science Principles Full Year 6 credits
6240 Advanced Placement
Open to Grades 10-12
Prerequisite: One of the following courses with a 80 or higher: Computer Programming with
JavaScript, Web Design using HTML & CSS, iOS App Design, Video Game Design and
Development.
The AP Computer Science Principles course is designed to meet the College Board requirements for
preparing students for the AP Computer Science Principles exam. This course utilizes resources
provided through Harvard University's CS50 Introductory Computer Science course.
This course teaches students how to think algorithmically and solve problems efficiently. Topics
include abstraction, algorithms, data structures, encapsulation, resource management, security, and
software engineering. Students will explore the foundations of computer science, including the
hardware and software that makes a computer function and the impacts technology and computing
has had and has on society. A large focus of the course will be learning the fundamentals of coding
using the C programming language, explore web programming using HTML, and also using Python
and SQL. The major projects of the course will be aligned with the College Board AP evaluation.
The course engages all students in authentic, project-based learning to develop computational
thinking through:
Collaborative problem solving
Creative design of unique solutions
Data representation through modeling and simulations
Algorithmic reasoning
By the conclusion of this course, students will be able to:
Understand the basics of computer systems
Understand the digital representations of real-world things
Evaluate and analyze the tremendous impact of computing on the world
Analyze and draw new conclusions from large data sets
Apply foundational programming constructs to solve problems
Create programs that serve useful functions
All AP students are expected to take the AP exam in May. This exam includes both a multiple choice
test and a digital portfolio (Create Performance Task) that students submit on their own.
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Students will only receive Advanced Placement quality point weighting toward their GPA average
upon submitting a portfolio to the College Board. Honors credit will be given to any student who does
not submit both parts of the AP Exam.
TV/Media I Semester 3 credits
(6170) Open to all grades
In this course, students will learn the basics of video production through theory and hands-on
experience. Students will work on various projects such as commercials, interviews, and talk shows.
The students will also learn about Media Literacy and how to become more subjective when using the
media for information. The class will also, at times, have guest speakers from local media outlets to
give participants "real world" experience.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
edit on a non-linear format
master basic production skills
understand advertising and public relations techniques
develop an understanding of ethics in media
TV/Media II Semester 3 credits
(6250) Open to all grades
TV/Media II students will learn the rudiments of public relations, advertising, and news reporting as
they work on two monthly half-hour programs covering on-campus events and local sports. Students
will learn advanced production skills, camera technique, and digital editing. The final programs will be
seen locally on DSCTV.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
demonstrate mastery of advanced editing on non-linear format
demonstrate mastery of advanced reporting and digital packaging skills
demonstrate mastery of advertising and public relations techniques
develop an understanding of ethics in media news reporting
TV/Media III Semester 3 credits
(6310) Open to all grades
In this course, students will be taking the skills they have mastered in previous TV Media classes and
using them to work on a singular long term project for the semester: a twenty minute pilot for a sitcom.
The first term of the class will be spent in pre production (storyboard and script writing) and the
second term will be spent shooting, editing, and promoting the project as it nears its premiere on
DSCTV and YouTube. Due to space limitations, this class is limited to ten students who are entering
their junior or senior year and have taken TV Media I and TV Media II. Teacher recommendation is
required.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
produce long form content using digital tools to produce and create
master intermediate production skills
create and implement a public relations/advertising plan to promote their content to potential
viewers
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ENGINEERING & INDUSTRIAL ARTS
Industrial Technology I Construction
(7300) All Year 6 credits
(7310) Semester 3 credits
Open to Grades 10, 11, 12
These are introductory courses with an emphasis on shop safety, the proper use of hand tools and
machine tools that are used to perform basic woodworking operations and processes. Woodworking
knowledge will be applied in the construction of student selected projects.
Industrial Technology II - Manufacturing
(7330) All Year 6 credits
(7340) Semester 3 credits
Open to Grades 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: Industrial Technology I
These courses consist of the study and application of advanced machine tool operation, fabrication
techniques and safety practices utilized in manufacturing industries and metal-working. Knowledge
and experience gained will be applied in the construction of a project of the student‘s choosing.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
graphically record a design for an item they wish to construct
organize a work schedule in a written plan of action for construction of an item of their choosing
develop problem-solving skills based on information received in this "hands-on" experiential
learning environment
communicate the intricacies of complex processes and procedures inherent to this area of
learning, using the correct terminology
know and apply the proper and safe rules of conduct in a work environment
acquire a foundation of knowledge of the materials and processes used in wood construction and
fabrication
evaluate the results of their undertakings
develop cooperative learning skills in this multi-activities learning environment
assist and direct less experienced peers in the safe and correct use of portable and machine tools
Industrial Technology III - General Contracting Semester 3 credits
(7371) Honors
Open to grades 11-12
Prerequisite: A 90 or above in both Industrial Technology I and II and also Teacher recommendation
This course is designed to give students an authentic, project-based learning experience replicating
the work of a general contractor. Unlike Industrial Technology I & II where students pick their own
projects to build and keep, Industrial Technology III students will be building projects for the Dover
Sherborn community. Students will seek out projects by connecting with community groups and local
schools, creating a list of options and then presenting these options to the teacher. Once a project has
been accepted by the teacher, students will work with the school administration or community group
leaders, plants and facility director, fire chief, business manager, school custodian, town inspectors,
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and all other stakeholders in the project to be certain all local and federal code requirements are met.
Students will present a formal proposal including an outline of time and materials as well as cost to
the appropriate group. Once a plan is approved and funding is secured, students will order materials
and then build the project. Upon completion of the project students will give a formal presentation of
the process and their end result to members of the regional school committee.
By the conclusion of this course, students will be able to:
Seek out projects by connecting with local leaders and school administration.
Research and understand local and federal laws around building codes.
Understand the process to gain approval for a large scale project, including permits if necessary.
Create a formal proposal for a project including plans, and an estimate of time and materials.
Work with local supply companies to secure quotes for materials.
File a formal request for project funding.
Manage time and materials to be sure the cost does not go over the budget and the deadline is
met.
Build a project to plans, while also altering and getting approval as issues might arise.
Give a formal presentation of the project to a large group as their final exam in the course.
Engineering All Year 6 credits
(7360) College Prep
(7361) Honors
Open to Grades 10*, 11, 12
*(Grade 10 only upon recommendation of Teacher and Dept. Head)
Students may apply the six credits toward either the Science or elective graduation
requirement. This will be reflected in GPA on transcript for both science credit and for elective
credit.
Engineering: Science, Technology, and the Design Process is a full year course designed to introduce
students to the world of technology and engineering as a first step in becoming technologically literate
citizens. The course will help students answer the question, ―Why should I study math, science and
engineering if I don‘t plan on a technical career?‖ Through this course‘s practical real world
connections, students will have the opportunity to see how mathematics, science and engineering are
part of their everyday world, and why it is important for every citizen to be technologically and
scientifically literate. Students will also design, build and program robots to complete tasks in the
classroom and in competitions.
Students will develop a deep and rich understanding of the term ―technology‖
Students will develop their abilities to use the engineering design process
Students will understand the complementary relationship between science, mathematics,
technology, and engineering
Students will understand how advances in technology affect human society, and how human
society determines which new technologies will be developed
Students will be able to apply fundamental concepts about energy to a wide variety of
problems
Students will be able to apply design ideas and programming knowledge in the building of
robots that must complete assigned tasks
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Astronomy Semester 3 credits
(6190) College Prep
(6191) Honors
Open to Grades 11, 12
Prerequisite: BOTH Biology and Chemistry, Algebra II (completed or currently enrolled)
This one semester course will provide a survey of modern astronomy. The content will include the
history and development of astronomical ideas, as well as an in depth look at the science of
theoretical and applied astronomy. Students will learn how to categorize and classify astronomical
bodies and how to use a telescope as a scientific tool for investigation. Students will participate in
evening observations and laboratories, and will be expected to complete a long term exploratory
project. Project possibilities will include astrophotography, orbit analysis through observation,
advanced web design, and engineering of optical telescopes. Students will also conduct public
observations for the community in the school's observatory. Students may apply the three credits
toward either the Science or Technology requirement.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
demonstrate a broad but cohesive knowledge of modern astronomical ideas
utilize mathematics and fundamental physics to do quantitative astronomical analysis
operate a computerized telescope and digital camera as scientific tools for investigation
maintain a webpage documenting work and research done in the class
Educational Technologies Courses offered via Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth (CTY)
and Stanford Online High School (SOHS)
We have researched online alternatives and have found courses at The Johns Hopkins Center for
Talented Youth (CTY - http://cty.jhu.edu/ctyonline) and The Stanford University Online High School
(SOHS - http://ohs.stanford.edu/) to be academically rigorous and well managed. The table below
details the courses that are pre-approved from each of these schools.
CTY
Introduction to Java Programming
Qualifying math score
3 Educational
Technology credits
Advanced Java Programming
Qualifying math score &
completion of Introduction to
Java Programming
3 Educational
Technology credits
AP Computer Science A
Qualifying math score &
completion of Algebra 1 and DS
Introduction to Visual Basic
Programming
6 Educational
Technology credits
SOHS
Introduction to C Programming
(Fall only)
Successful completion of Honors
Algebra 2
3 Educational
Technology credits
Programming in C: Algorithms
and Techniques (Spring only)
Introduction to C Programming
3 Educational
Technology credits
AP Computer Science
Concurrent enrollment in
Precalculus Honors or
successful completion of another
SOHS computer science course
6 Educational
Technology credits
Data Structures and Algorithms in
Java
AP Computer Science or a 4 or
above on the AP Computer
Science Exam
6 Educational
Technology credits
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1. Qualifications Any student in good standing at Dover Sherborn High School can opt to take a
technology class via CTY or SOHS. These courses will be counted as original credit courses
once we receive a transcript from the school indicating a student‘s passing grade.
2. Admissions each school has its own admissions process that includes, among other things,
standardized test scores. Students considering these courses will need to manage the
admissions process independently (including making sure to meet the admissions process
timeline set by the online school). CTY has a rolling admissions process that can be
completed at any time. However, DSHS recommends that a student apply for admission to
the following academic year by April of the current academic year. The AP Computer Science
A course is session based, not Individually Paced. SOHS has a rolling admissions process,
but admission for the following academic year should be completed by February 15
th
of the
current academic year.
3. Cost since these courses are all above and beyond those offered at DSHS, the individual
student must cover all costs. Costs as currently listed for each school are shown below:
School
Cost by course
Additional Costs
CTY
The Java courses are Individually paced, but
typically take 6 months to complete. The AP
Computer Science course is session based (see
http://cty.jhu.edu/ctyonline/calendar/index.html for
application deadlines) Current costs are formulated
by the number of months a student chooses:
3 months - $860
6 months - $1,665
9 months - $2,385
Costs of any book(s)
used is additional
SOHS
Courses are to be completed according to the
academic calendar found at
http://ohs.stanford.edu/academics
Current cost is $5,130 per course.
Costs of any book(s)
used is additional
4. Work load
CTY quotes at least 1 hour per day, 5 days per week and weekly email communication
with the course instructor.
SOHS quotes 8-10 hours per week including online discussions (two 1-1.5 hour
discussions required per week), viewing lectures, and completing assignments outside of
class time.
5. Supervision - While we want to allow for flexibility in terms of scheduling (if the student does
not take another DSHS class, he or she will be assigned to a DR for this period), we want to
have some oversight of the progress a student is/is not making. Given the small number of
students expected to opt for this route, we have decided to have them report to the
Mathematics department head on a quarterly basis. This communication will allow us a view
into the student‘s progress as he or she moves through the course.
Courses must be approved by the Department Head and Principal before registering for courses.
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In Grade 9, students will engage in a semester of Health Education and a semester of Outdoor
Education/Fitness Development. Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors participate in quarterly elected
modules. The modules total sixteen elective offerings and are listed in the pages that follow.
Wellness Graduation Credit Requirement
The graduation credit requirement for Wellness has been amended so that credits will be aligned
with the credit assignment for all other disciplines based on the number of class meetings.
Grade
Class Meetings Per 8-Day Rotation
Credits
Per Semester
Total Credits
9
5 per semester for both semesters
2.5
5
10
3 per semester for both semesters
1.5
3
11
3 per semester for both semesters
1.5
3
12
3 per semester for one semester
1.5
1.5
Total Credits
12.5
American Gov.
Wellness Department
1 Semester
Health Education
1 Semester
Outdoor Education
and Fitness
Development
Quarterly Elective
Modules
2 Semesters
Grade 9
Grade 10
Grade 11
Quarterly Elective
Modules
2 Semesters
Grade 12
Quarterly Elective
Modules
1 Semester
101
WELLNESS DEPARTMENT
Grade 9 Wellness
Grade 9 students must complete one semester of Health and one semester of Outdoor
Education/Fitness Development. The class meets 5 times in an 8-day rotation.
Health Education Semester 2.5 credits
(9110)
Freshmen Health class incorporates the dimensions of Wellness into a variety of activities. The
students will participate in the following units: Mental Health, Nutrition, Sexuality and Relationships,
Alcohol and Other Drugs.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
Interpret and breakdown consumer information
Understand the importance of nutrition in daily life
Understand factors that contribute to positive mental health
Understand the different components of mental health including self-esteem, emotion, and stress
managements skills
Understand Human Growth and Development in Sexuality and Relationships
Identify ways to promote health and prevent disease
Outdoor Education/ Fitness Development Semester 2.5 credits
(9120)
Freshmen Outdoor Education/Fitness Development will focus exclusively on Outdoor Education for
the first quarter. Students will participate in games, initiatives and the high ropes course which
includes a multitude of low and high elements. The second quarter will focus on Fitness
Development.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
Work within a group and recognize the strengths and benefits of working together. Increase
mutual support within a group.
Develop an enhanced familiarity and identification with the natural world
Develop an increased level of fitness inclusive of agility, coordination, strength training and
cardiovascular training
Develop a specific personal fitness plan.
Exhibit responsible personal and social behavior that respects self and others in physical activity
and sports settings
Grade 10, 11 and 12 Wellness
Grade 10, 11 and 12 students must complete five semesters of wellness electives, in accordance with
the credit distribution outlined on page 79. Classes meet 3 times in an 8-day rotation.
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Sophomore, Junior and Senior Wellness Education Semester 1.5 credits
(9210)
(9220)
Each module will meet for a quarter. This elective programming is designed to prepare students for
the demands of the 21
st
century. Our elective modules seek to answer the question: What do our
students need to know and be able to do in order to prepare for their futures?
Upon successful completion of these modules, students will be able to:
Demonstrate the skills and knowledge, concepts and principles, strategies and tactics in order to
effectively participate in lifelong activities
Develop sportsmanship and respect through a variety of activities
Appreciate the benefits of teamwork, problem solving and leadership as it pertains to these
elective modules
Engage in activities that improve their physical and mental well-being
Develop an appreciation for fitness pursuits, health pursuits and physical activity pursuits as they
relate to overall well-being
Sophomore /Junior / Senior Modules
Fitness My Choice
General Survival
Stress Management
Sport Education Model-Net Sports
Invasion Games
Dance, Dance, Take A Chance
Fitness Walking
Advanced Outdoor Pursuits
CPR/AED/First Aid
Yoga
Sport Education Model-Winter Team Sports
Coaching, Teaching, Recreation and Leadership
Drugs and Society
Muscular Fitness
Student Leadership TA
RAD Systems of Self Defense
Sports and Society
Target Sports - Archery and Frisbee Golf
What’s Next
Contemporary Health Topics
Fitness My Choice
This module will provide students the opportunity to select activities of their choosing with instructor
approval, with the knowledge to evaluate and participate in an aerobic exercise program. . Students
will analyze their current level of cardiovascular fitness using different assessments. Exercise science
principles such as calculating maximum heart rate, target heart rate, recovery heart rate and rate of
perceived exertion will be covered. A majority of the movement time will allow students the
independence to choose enjoyable workouts while reaping cardiovascular benefits of being in the
target heart rate zone which will translate into lifetime habits. Students will be assessed via data
using Polar Heart Monitors, reflections from readings and/or writing prompts, CV Log and final
assessment.
Upon successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
Recognize enjoyable activities that implement the F.I.T.T principle in cardiovascular training.
Design and monitor workouts using target heart rate parameters.
Articulate their understanding of the components of cardiovascular endurance and personal
health benefits.
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General Survival
This module offers students the opportunity to learn the many skills needed to survive a variety of
survival situations such as natural disasters, vehicle emergencies, fire safety, and personal safety. We
will learn many different skills and strategies related to emergency situations such as but not limited to
primitive fire starting methods, basic car mechanics, weather system identification, and basic
navigation techniques.
Upon successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
Prepare and identify personal safety situations.
Identify potential weather anomalies.
Prepare for a natural disaster.
Repair or diagnose basic mechanical failures in a vehicle.
Health and Physical Education Student Leader and Teaching Assistant
This module will meet the needs of students who would like to assist a teacher in an experience of
their choosing. Students would apply to be a TA in Outdoor Education or Wilderness Survival, for
example, and meet the expectations of the teacher running the course. This is an opportunity for
seniors who would like to develop their leadership skills, who are interested in teaching or public
speaking, and who possess skills and knowledge in a particular area that they can share with
students. Good attendance is crucial for selection as a TA. Teaching assistants will review the
curriculum to deepen understanding of course content. They will facilitate student interaction and
discussion, provide feedback to students, and assist in class preparation, delivery, and assessment
for some lessons. Teaching assistants will schedule meetings with the teacher on a regular basis to
collaborate and to discuss their role in upcoming lessons.
Upon successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
Deliver a lesson in the chosen elective.
Provide meaningful and specific feedback to students.
Submit a self reflective journal to teacher.
Muscular Fitness
Upon completion of this module, students will be able to identify the location and function of the major
muscle groups as well as safely perform a wide variety of free weight and machine exercises for each
major muscle group. In addition students will experience some of the latest alternative conditioning
programs: CrossFit, Insanity, P90X. Assessments will involve reflections based on writing prompts,
the Workout Log, the student‘s daily level of involvement, Individual Muscular Fitness Plan with goals,
and the final assessment.
Upon successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
Demonstrate appropriate lifting technique for major and minor muscle groups.
Analyze contemporary strength training programs available through the media.
Demonstrate an understanding of anatomy and physiology as it relates to muscular fitness.
104
Stress Management
This module will help students identify the stressors in their lives and teach them to implement stress
reduction techniques such as mindfulness and deep breathing exercises. Students will also develop
habits of mind to manage stress in their lives. Participation in a variety of lab experiences will guide
self-reflection and understanding. Lab experiences could include such opportunities as yoga, time-
management, meditating, etc.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
Identify a number of techniques to reduce the stress in their lives.
Demonstrate the various stress reduction techniques used in class.
CPR, First Aid, and A.E.D Certification
This module will allow a student to become American Heart Association certified in CPR, First Aid,
and A.E.D. training or American Heart Association certified. This certification allows a student to apply
for a variety of summer jobs working with children in camp and outdoor settings. The course will cover
all the necessary material related to the American Heart Association, along with learning emergency
techniques to treat basic to severe life threatening emergencies.
Upon successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
Complete the American Heart Association practical and written exams for certification.
Advanced Outdoor Pursuits and Wilderness Survival
This module offers students the opportunity to experience the outdoors in all of its wonder and simple
solitude. Through hands-on activities, students will learn a variety of wilderness survival skills such as
shelter-building, water procurement and water purification, preparing and cooking food in the outdoor
environment, and finding edible and safe outdoor survival foods and plants. Students will ultimately be
prepared to ensure a safe journey into a remote forested environment. Students will participate in a
mandatory overnight camping event hosted on campus, along with DS staff, as the culminating final
exam for the course. .An alternative activity such as a paper or project will be assigned if a student is
unable to participate in this overnight camping event.
Prerequisite: Outdoor Pursuits 1 or Wilderness Survival
Upon successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
Build suitable natural shelters for a variety of conditions.
To procure water and utilize sterilization methods for safe drinking water.
Find an abundance of natural foods found in the wild.
Prepare and cook a variety of food for survival outside.
Complete a single night camping experience on campus
Sport Education- Net Sports
This course is a comprehensive look at various net sports such as tennis, pickleball and volleyball
using the Sport Education Model. Students will participate in various roles in these activities as
coach, player, official and manager. Students will develop sport specific techniques and fitness using
this model of instruction.
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Upon successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
Design a playbook with sports specific warm ups and drills for preseason, practice and
competition.
Demonstrate roles as coach, player, official, and manager.
Officiate a game or contest using rules of the game.
Keep records of contests and player performance.
Dance, Dance, Take A Chance
This module will provide students the opportunity to experience an array of dance genres in an
encouraging environment. Students will experience social dance in an atmosphere where students
will learn the movement concepts of such dances as ballroom, hip hop, and jazz. Students do not
need to have any prior dance experience to participate in the class. The class will be peer led by
students who have prior dance experience working with those who have not. The course will
culminate in each student choreographing and performing a dance presentation with their peer leader.
The course is designed to enhance fitness while helping students celebrate their unique differences;
explore the cultural perspectives of dance, and personal self expression.
Upon successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
Expand on their movement technique and expression through dance.
Demonstrate a consciousness and awareness of self, others and their dance environment.
Use accurate observation and accurate critique of dance.
Demonstrate a choreographed dance performance.
Coaching, Teaching, Recreation and Leadership
Students interested in becoming camp counselors, coaches and future educators will benefit from this
module. Through exploration of various teaching techniques, management and safety protocols, each
student will find the confidence to pursue leadership opportunities. Students will observe teachers
and coaches and be introduced to lesson plan writing and implementation.
Upon successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
Receive a certificate of course completion applicable to seasonal job opportunities.
Create and implement a lesson plan.
Utilize a toolbox of educational strategies and best practices.
Sport Education- Winter Team Sports
This module is a comprehensive look at team sports such as hockey or basketball using the Sport
Education Model. Students will participate in various roles in these activities as coach, player, official
and manager. Students will develop sport specific techniques and fitness using this model of
instruction.
Upon successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
Design a playbook with sports specific warm ups and drills for preseason, practice and
competition.
Demonstrate roles as coach, player, official, and manager.
Officiate a game or contest using rules of the game.
Keep records of contests and player performance.
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Yoga
Students will be introduced to the safety, basic postures, breathing techniques, relaxation methods,
movements, and fitness benefits of yoga. The students in this module will learn the benefits of yoga
and its impact on movement, how to breathe and stretch more effectively as they learn to relax,
dispose of built up stress, and learn to get more out of their life through yoga. Students will not just
focus on ones core strength, but will work the entire human body. Ultimately students will learn the
benefits of gaining strength and balance, muscle development, as well as flexibility and increased
range of motion for the joints.
Upon successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
Execute the various poses/asanas covered in class.
Understand the health benefits gained by participating in yoga.
Design a 15 minute yoga workout.
Fitness Walking
The class will offer students a variety of trail hiking, and fitness walking. Students will learn the wide
spectrum of activities the outdoors has to offer while gaining an appreciation for the environment and
how we protect this valuable resource.
Upon successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
Understand appropriate trail management skills when walking in the outdoors.
Complete 2 to 3 mile hikes each class through the neighborhoods and woods of Dover and
Medfield.
Value physical activity for health, enjoyment, self expression and/or social interaction
Drugs and Society
This module is designed to explore the complexities and impact drugs have on our society. Students
will explore drug use and abuse on a social spectrum, rather than a physical one. Students will gain
knowledge in the history of drug use in the United States, drug use as a social problem, and current
drug regulations; including state and local laws.
Upon successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
Research and analyze data regarding drugs and their effects on society.
Complete a comprehensive research project.
Use technology to present an overview of the student‘s research.
The RAD Systems of Self Defense
The R.A.D. Systems of Self Defense (rape aggression defense) offers a program for women only.
RAD is a program of realistic self-defense tactics and techniques. It is a comprehensive course that
begins with awareness, prevention, risk reduction, and risk avoidance, while progressing on to the
basics of hands-on defense training. This course includes educational components comprised of
lecture, discussion, and physical resistive strategies all of which are facilitated by our very own
certified R.A.D. instructors.
Upon successful completion of this course students will be able to:
Demonstrate the practical techniques of self defense.
Complete the final practical assessment.
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Sports and Society
The class will involve the direct investigation of the sociological aspects of sports. It will explore the
social setting of sport and its impact on American society. Students will probe sport as a social
institution in our culture.
Upon successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
Understand sport as a significant experience in culture and incorporate the sociological
perception of sport in other parts of the social world.
Explore Sport as a social construct in society.
Evaluate consequences of sport on organizational variations.
Differentiate sport and athletics from various perspectives.
Target Sports- Archery and Frisbee Golf
The Frisbee Golf and Archery Elective will be an eight week 15 class unit. Students and the general
community are looking for alternative forms of recreational activities in an effort to improve health and
quality of life. Frisbee Golf and Archery helps students gain a better level of upper and lower body
strength while increasing fitness level through active participation. Frisbee Golf and Archery also
promote the use of both mental and physical skills along with increasing their personal concentration
skills by mastering shots and negotiating obstacles.
Upon successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
Students will be able to play a complete round of Frisbee Golf, consisting of creating and
playing a 9-hole course.
Use combinations of manipulative, locomotor, and non-locomotor skills to develop movement
sequences and patterns, both individually and with others
Students will demonstrate competence and proper form while using 4 different types of throws
in Frisbee Golf.
Students will demonstrate appropriate behavior while participating in Frisbee Golf and Archery,
showing personal responsibility and avoiding dangerous situations.
Students will show respect for others and give feedback and evaluation of other class
members.
Students will be able to explain the benefits of participating in Frisbee Golf and Archery as a
lifelong activity
Invasion Games
In this elective, students will participate in a myriad of Invasion Games such as team handball,
Treasure Island, Speedball, Football, Soccer and Capture the Flag.
Tactical problems related to Invasion Games include
Maintaining possession
Attacking/defending space
Winning possession
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What’s Next
This course is designed to equip students with a greater personal awareness to make informed health
decisions as they move into independent living situations post-graduation. This course will give
students the opportunity to reflect on decisions made in high school and how to use those decision-
making skills in the next chapter of their lives. Practical life skills will also be an integral part of the
learning process.
Upon successful completion of this course students will:
Be aware of mental health resources available at the local, state, and federal level.
Recognize the signs of stress and depression
Explore issues of communal living and cultural sensitivity
Recognize the signs and symptoms of eating disorders
Evaluate exercise and weight management plans that affect overall health
Explore health and safety issues relating to birth control and sexual responsibility, prevention
and treatment of sexually transmitted diseases, rape prevention and treatment
Understand substance abuse issues outside of high school
Develop skills in managing money, food, clothing, housing, and transportation
Explore alternative forms of medicine and treatment of illnesses
Create a Portfolio of resources, ideas, and tools to use in the future
Contemporary Health Topics
This module encourages students to examine practices and plans regarding the most recent health
issues facing our country today, along with learning about significant public health events in the past
and how those were handled on a local, state, federal, and global level. Through interactive activities,
student survey choice topics, and thought-provoking studies, students will focus on topics such
as: health care, healthcare equality, vaccines, pandemics, peer influence, and organ donation.
Upon successful completion of this module students will be able to/know:
Where to search and the sources they can trust to provide accurate health information.
How to be advocates for good health for themselves and others in their community.
Analyze the relationship between access to health care and health status.
Analyze how the culture supports and challenges health beliefs, practices, and behaviors.
Analyze how public health policies and government regulations can influence health
promotion and disease prevention.
Demonstrate refusal, negotiation, and collaboration skills to enhance health and avoid or
reduce health risks.
Demonstrate how to ask for and offer assistance to enhance the health of self and others.
Please note: The Wellness Department will select when electives are offered. (semester and
term)
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French
No WL
or
Other WL
Novice 1
H or CP
Novice 2
H or CP
Novice 3
H or CP
French
Novice 3
H or CP
Intermediate
1
H or CP
Intermediate
2
H or CP
AP French
Language
Intermediate
3
H or CP
World Language
Chinese
Grade 8
8888888
Grade 9
9
Grade 10
10
Grade 11
111
Grade 12
12
Curriculum diagram for World Language is continued on next page
Intermediate
1
H or CP
110
Grade 8
Grade 9
Grade 10
Grade 11
Grade 12
No WL
or
Other WL
Novice 1
H or CP
Novice 2
H or CP
Novice 3
H or CP
Spanish
Novice 3
H or CP
Intermediate
1
H or CP
Intermediate
2
H or CP
AP Spanish
Language
Intermediate
3
H or CP
AP
Latin
Advanced Topics
in Latin A/B
Latin
Latin
Novice 3
H or CP
Intermediate 1
H or CP
Intermediate
1
H or CP
Advanced Topics
in Latin A/B
No WL
or
Other WL
Novice
2 A
CP
Novice
1 A
CP
Novice
1 B
CP
Novice
2 CP
AP Latin
Spanish
Spanish
Advanced
Topics in Latin
B/A
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WORLD LANGUAGE
The World Language Department offers courses that are aligned with the National
Standards in World Language Education and the Massachusetts World Language
Curriculum Framework. Course names reflect the ACTFL (American Council of Teaching
of World Languages) Performance Guidelines. These standards measure a student’s
comprehensibility, comprehension, language control, vocabulary usage, communication
strategies and cultural awareness. In a grade 6-12 program, as language students’ level
of proficiency increases, they move from the Novice to Intermediate stages of language
proficiency.
The World Language Department offers sequential programs in Chinese, French, Latin,
and Spanish.
***Students who have completed the grade 6-8 sequence at the middle school will enroll
in the Novice 3 course of the world language.
***The successful completion of three years of world language at the high school is
required for graduation.
****Any student transferring to Dover-Sherborn High School who has previously studied
one of the four languages offered will be given a placement test to determine proper
course placement.
CHINESE
Chinese Novice 1 All Year 6 credits
(5101) Honors
(5110) College Prep
Honors Prerequisite: Recommendation of the World Language Department
This course is an introduction to the Chinese language (Mandarin). Students begin to acquire
skills in speaking, writing, reading and listening, and explore links between the Chinese
language and culture.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
communicate in short sentences on familiar topics
understand words and phrases for simple questions, statements, high-frequency commands
and courtesy formulae about topics that refer to basic personal information or the immediate
physical needs
produce and comprehend materials which include basic grammatical structures and
thematic vocabulary
demonstrate some accuracy in oral and written presentations
recognize some of the perspectives, practices and products of the Chinese world
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Chinese Novice 2 All Year 6 credits
(5121) Honors
(5130) College Prep
Honors Prerequisite: B+ or better in Chinese 1 Honors (A in Chinese 1CP) and/ or
recommendation of the World Language Department
This course is a continuation of the study of the Chinese language (Mandarin). Students
continue to develop and refine skills in speaking, writing, reading and listening, and explore links
between the Chinese language and culture.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
communicate in short sentences and/or paragraphs on familiar topics
understand words and phrases for simple questions, statements, high-frequency commands
and courtesy formulae about topics that refer to basic personal information or the immediate
physical needs
produce and comprehend materials which include more grammatical structures and
thematic vocabulary
demonstrate some accuracy in oral and written presentations
demonstrate an expanded knowledge of the perspectives, practices and products of
Chinese-speaking societies.
Chinese Novice 3 All Year 6 credits
(5141) Honors
(5150) College Prep
Honors Prerequisite: B+ or better in Chinese Novice 2 Honors (A in Chinese 2 CP) and/or
recommendation of the World Language Department.
This course is a continuation of the study of the Chinese language (Mandarin). Students
continue to develop and refine skills in speaking, writing, reading and listening, and explore links
between the Chinese language and culture.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
communicate in sentences and paragraphs on a variety of topics
understand words and phrases for simple and complex questions, statements, high-
frequency commands and courtesy formulae about topics that refer to basic personal
information or the immediate physical needs
produce and comprehend materials which include complex grammatical structures and
thematic vocabulary
demonstrate accuracy in oral and written presentations
demonstrate an expanded knowledge of the perspectives, practices and products of
Chinese-speaking societies.
Chinese Intermediate 1 All Year 6 credits
(5161) Honors
(5160) College Prep
Honors Prerequisite: B+ or better in Chinese Novice 3 Honors (A in Chinese Novice 3CP)
and/or recommendations of the World Language Department.
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This course is a continuation of the study of the Chinese language (Mandarin). Students
continue to develop and refine skills in speaking, writing, reading, and listening and explore links
between the Chinese language and culture.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
communicate in interactive, task-oriented and social situations
understand sentence and paragraph-length utterances in a situational context
read and understand some connected texts with chronological sequencing
communicate needs by creating statements and questions that recombine learned
vocabulary and structures through oral and written expression
use of knowledge of their own culture to interpret oral and written texts more accurately
FRENCH
French Novice 3 All Year 6 credits
(5301) Honors
(5310) College Prep
Prerequisite: Completion of the middle school program and recommendation of the World
Language Department
The Novice 3 student continues the study of French.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
demonstrate expansion of their communication skills through short sentences and
paragraphs on familiar topics
understand brief conversations and narrations in expanded contexts
produce and comprehend materials which include some advanced grammatical structures
and vocabulary
function in the target culture by expanding their knowledge of the perspectives, practices
and products of the Francophone world
French Intermediate 1 All Year 6 credits
(5321) Honors
(5330 College Prep
Honors Prerequisite: B+ or better in French Novice 3 Honors (A in French Novice 3 CP) and/or
the recommendation of the World Language Department
The Intermediate 1 student continues the study of French.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
communicate in interactive, task-oriented and social situations
understand sentence and paragraph-length utterances in a situational contexts
read and understand some connected texts with chronological sequencing
communicate needs by creating statements and questions that recombine learned
vocabulary and structures both through oral and written expression
use knowledge of their own culture to interpret oral or written texts more accurately
114
French Intermediate 2 All Year 6 credits
(5341) Honors
(5350) College Prep
Honors Prerequisite: B+ or better in French Intermediate 1 Honors (A in French Intermediate 1
CP) and/or recommendation of the World Language Department
The Intermediate 2 student continues the study of French.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
communicate in a variety of interactive, task-oriented and social situations and participate in
conversations on topics beyond the most immediate needs
understand sentence and paragraph-length utterances in a situational context as well as
announcements and reports over the media
read and understand texts which require the student to make suppositions and to which the
student brings personal interest and/or knowledge
write on topics related to personal experience and in a variety of time frames and aspects.
use culturally appropriate vocabulary and idiomatic expressions and recognize differences
and similarities in the perspectives of the target culture and their own
French Intermediate 3 All Year 6 credits
(5361) Honors
(5370) College Prep
Honors Prerequisite: B+ or better in French Intermediate 2 Honors (A in French Intermediate 2
CP) and/or the recommendation of the World Language Department
The aim of this course is to elevate language to a higher level of spoken, comprehensive and
cultural proficiency. The course will focus on the cultural and historic relevance of France and
the francophone countries through authentic texts, film and music.
Upon successful completion of this course students will be able to:
communicate oral and written information about familiar topics with a higher degree of
accuracy
demonstrate an understanding of general concepts, main ideas and more specific
information about both familiar and unfamiliar topics
demonstrate culturally appropriate vocabulary and interpretation of oral and written texts
AP French Language All Year 6 credits
(5382) Advanced Placement
Prerequisite: B+ or better in French Intermediate 2 Honors (A in French Intermediate 2 CP)
and/or recommendation of the World Language Department
The French Language and Culture AP course provides students with opportunities to
demonstrate their proficiency in each of the three modes of communication (Interpersonal,
Interpretive and Presentational) in the Intermediate to Pre-Advanced range as described in the
ACTFL Performance Guidelines for K12 Learners. The course takes a holistic approach to
language proficiency and recognizes the complex interrelatedness of comprehension and
comprehensibility, vocabulary usage, language control, communication strategies, and cultural
awareness. Students will learn language structures in context and be able to use them to
convey meaning.
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Students who take this course will be expected to take the Advanced Placement examination in
May.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
identify and summarize the main points and significant details and make appropriate
inferences and predictions from a spoken source on an academic or cultural topic
identify and summarize the main points and significant details and predict outcomes form an
everyday conversation on a familiar topic
identify and summarize main points and important details and make appropriate inferences
and predictions from a written text
write a cohesive and coherent analytical or persuasive essay in relation to a text
describe, narrate, and present information or persuasive arguments on general topics with
grammatical control and good pronunciation in oral presentations
communicate via formal and informal written correspondence
initiate, maintain and close a conversation on a familiar topic
formulate questions to seek clarification or additional information
use language that is semantically and grammatically accurate according to a given context
demonstrate an expanded knowledge of the perspectives, practices and products of French-
speaking societies.
Summer Assignment: Students enrolled in French AP Language will read articles from a
variety of authentic print sources and listen to a variety of auditory sources. They will be
expected to write summaries of articles and express their opinions on the themes presented in
the articles.
LATIN
Latin Novice 3 All Year 6 credits
(5501) Honors
(5510) College Prep
Recommendation of the World Language Department
This course is designed for students who have completed three years of Latin study at the
Middle School. The Latin Novice 3 course builds on the skills learned in Latin I (Middle School).
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
demonstrate a basic knowledge of Latin roots, prefixes, suffixes
demonstrate the relationship of Latin words to their derivates and cognates in English
demonstrate knowledge about the Roman world by reading adapted or selected Latin
sources
demonstrate reading comprehension by answering simple questions in Latin about short
passages in Latin
demonstrate a basic knowledge of the daily life of the ancient Romans, famous Romans,
and historical and geographical facts of the ancient world
recognize plots and themes of Roman myths in the literature of other cultures
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Latin Intermediate 1 All Year 6 credits
(5521) Honors
(5530) College Prep
Honors Prerequisite: Latin Novice 3 Honors and/or recommendation of the World Language
Department
Students will review and complete the study of Latin morphology and syntax by the end of the
fall, using English to Latin composition both for review and for acquisition of the few remaining
topics. They will then spend most of the remainder of the year reading the prose authors
Caesar, Sallust and Cicero in the original, as well as preparing for the SAT II subject test in
Latin. In the spring they will learn to scan and read dactylic hexameter and translate excerpts
from Ovid and Vergil.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
Translate, analyze and discuss Latin texts of Golden Age authors in the original, unadapted
Latin.
Understand the historical and cultural background of these authors.
Understand the art of rhetoric and be able to use rhetorical tools and skills.
Use all Latin grammatical constructions, both English to Latin and Latin to English.
Enter into either AP Latin or Advanced Topics in Latin.
To scan dactylic hexameter.
Be prepared for the SAT II subject test in Latin.
Advanced Topics in Latin A All Year 6 credits
(5541) Honors
Prerequisite: Latin I Intermediate and/or teacher recommendation
This course will run every other year. Advanced Topics in Latin B will be offered during the
years when Advanced Topics in Latin A is not running.
This course is designed to prepare juniors to take AP Latin as seniors as well as to provide
seniors who have already taken AP as juniors an opportunity to continue their study of the
language. Seniors who have taken Advanced Topics B as juniors may also elect to take
Advanced Topics A.
The curriculum for this course includes selections of poetry and prose from authors of Classical
Latin such as Catullus, Vergil, Ovid, Cicero, Caesar, and Livy. The goal of this class is to
strengthen reading comprehension skills, literal translation, grammar skills and syntax, and
analysis of Latin script.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
translate passages of Classical Latin poetry and prose
discuss the relationships between poetry and the political environment of the time
scan dactylic hexameter and elegiac couplet meter
write analytical essays on given text
be prepared to take AP Latin
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Advanced Topics in Latin B All Year 6 credits
(5561) Honors
Prerequisite: Latin I Intermediate and/or teacher recommendation
This course will run every other year. Advanced Topics in Latin A will be offered during the
years when Advanced Topics in Latin B is not running.
This course is designed to prepare juniors to take AP Latin as seniors as well as to provide
seniors who have already taken AP as juniors an opportunity to continue their study of the
language. Seniors who have taken Advanced Topics B as juniors may also elect to take
Advanced Topics A instead of AP.
The curriculum for this course includes selections of poetry and prose from authors of Classical
Latin such as Catullus, Vergil, Ovid, Cicero, Caesar, and Livy. from the poems of Catullus and
the Metamorphoses of Ovid (including Apollo and Daphne, Pyramus and Thisbe, Orpheus and
Eurydice, and others), as well as some prose readings. The goal of this class is to strengthen
reading comprehension skills, literal translation, grammar skills and syntax, and analysis of Latin
script. This course will prepare students juniors to take AP Latin the following year and will
provide seniors with another opportunity to improve their reading skills.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
translate passages of Classical Latin poetry and prose
discuss the relationships between poetry and the political environment of the time
scan dactylic hexameter and elegiac couplet meter
write analytical essays on given text
be prepared to take AP Latin
AP Latin All Year 6 credits
(5552) Advanced Placement
Prerequisite: A- or better in Latin Intermediate I or B+ or better in Advanced Topics in Latin
and/or the recommendation of the teacher.
This class is open to juniors who have completed Latin Intermediate 1, or seniors who have
completed Advanced Topics in Latin.
This course is designed for students to become advanced readers of Latin poetry and prose
(Vergil‘s Aeneid and Caesar‘s De Bello Gallico). Students will develop and apply their skills in
four categories: Reading and Comprehending, Translation, Contextualization, and Analysis of
Texts. Throughout the course, students will develop their language skills through various
activities: precise, literal translation of prepared poetry and prose, reading with comprehension
of sight passages, both poetry and prose; and written analyses that demonstrate the results of
critical reading in clear and coherent arguments supported by textual examples.
Students who take this course will be expected to take the Advanced Placement examination in
May.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
scan dactylic hexameter
translate passages of Classical Latin poetry and prose
write analytical essays on Latin prose poetry
relate Latin texts to Roman history, culture and literature
analyze linguistic and literary features of one or more Latin texts
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SPANISH
Spanish Novice 1 All Year 6 credits
(5701) Honors
(5710) College Prep
Prerequisite: Recommendation of the World Language Department
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
communicate in short sentences on familiar topics
understand words and phrases for simple questions, statements, high-frequency commands
and courtesy formulae about topics that refer to basic personal information or the immediate
physical needs
produce and comprehend materials which include basic grammatical structures and
thematic vocabulary
demonstrate some accuracy in oral and written presentations
recognize some of the perspectives, practices and products of the Hispanic world
Spanish Novice 1-A All Year 6 credits
(5720) College Prep
Prerequisite: Recommendation of the World Language Department
This course is an introduction to Spanish which spreads a traditional Novice 1 (first year)
curriculum over two years.
Upon successful completion of this course and the subsequent Novice 2-A course, students will
be able to:
communicate in short sentences on familiar topics
understand words and phrases for simple questions, statements, high-frequency commands
and courtesy formulae about topics that refer to basic personal information or the immediate
physical needs
produce and comprehend materials which include basic grammatical structures and
thematic vocabulary
demonstrate some accuracy in oral and written presentations
recognize some of the perspectives, practices and products of the Hispanic world
Spanish Novice 1-B All Year 6 credits
(5730) College Prep
Prerequisite: Spanish Novice 1-A and/or recommendation of the World Language Department
This course is a continuation of Spanish 1-A (CP) which together with Spanish 1-A, covers a
traditional first year curriculum over two years.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
communicate in short sentences on familiar topics
understand words and phrases for simple questions, statements, high-frequency commands
and courtesy formulae about topics that refer to basic personal information or the immediate
physical needs
119
produce and comprehend materials which include basic grammatical structures and
thematic vocabulary
demonstrate some accuracy in oral and written presentations
recognize some of the perspectives, practices and products of the Hispanic world
Spanish Novice 2 All Year 6 credits
(5741) Honors
(5750) College Prep
Honors Prerequisite: B+ or better in Spanish Novice 1H (A in Spanish Novice 1CP) and/or
recommendation of the World Language Department
The Novice 2 student continues the study of Spanish.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
communicate in short sentences on familiar topics
understand words and phrases for simple questions, statements, high-frequency commands
and courtesy formulae about topics that refer to basic personal information or the immediate
physical needs
produce and comprehend materials which include more grammatical structures and
thematic vocabulary
demonstrate some accuracy in oral and written presentations
demonstrate an expanded knowledge of the perspectives, practices and products of the
Hispanic world
Spanish Novice 2-A All Year 6 credits
(5760) College Prep
Prerequisite: Spanish Novice 1-B and/or recommendation of the World Language Department
Spanish Novice 2-A is the continuation of the Spanish Novice 1-A, Spanish Novice 1-B
sequence.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
communicate in short sentences on familiar topics
understand words and phrases for simple questions, statements, high-frequency commands
and courtesy formulae about topics that refer to basic personal information or the immediate
physical needs
produce and comprehend materials which include more grammatical structures and
thematic vocabulary
demonstrate some accuracy in oral and written presentations
demonstrate an expanded knowledge of the perspectives, practices and products of the
Hispanic world
Spanish Novice 3 All Year 6 credits
(5771) Honors
(5780) College Prep
Prerequisite: B+ or better in Spanish Novice 2 Honors (A in Spanish Novice 2CP) and/or
recommendation of the World Language Department
The Novice 3 student continues the study of Spanish.
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Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
demonstrate expansion of their communication skills through short sentences and
paragraphs on familiar topics
understand brief conversations and narrations in expanded contexts
produce and comprehend materials which include some advanced grammatical structures
and vocabulary
function in the target culture by expanding their knowledge of the perspectives, practices
and products of the Hispanic world
Spanish Intermediate 1 All Year 6 credits
(5791) Honors
(5800) College Prep
Honors Prerequisite: B+ or better in Spanish Novice 3H (A in Spanish Novice 3CP) and/or the
recommendation o the World Language Department
The Intermediate 1 student continues the study of Spanish.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
communicate in interactive, task-oriented and social situations
understand sentence and paragraph-length utterances in a situational contexts
read and understand some connected texts with chronological sequencing.
communicate needs by creating statements and questions that recombine learned
vocabulary and structures both through oral and written expression
use knowledge of their own culture to interpret oral or written texts more accurately
Spanish Intermediate 2 All Year 6 credits
(5811) Honors
(5820) College Prep
Honors Prerequisite: B+ or better in Spanish Intermediate 1 Honors (A in Spanish Intermediate
1 CP) and/or the recommendation of the World Language Department
The Intermediate 2 student continues the study of Spanish.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
communicate in a variety of interactive, task-oriented and social situations and participate in
conversations on topics beyond the most immediate needs
understand sentence and paragraph-length utterances in a situational context as well as
announcements and reports over the media
read and understand texts which require the student to make suppositions and to which the
student brings personal interest and/or knowledge
write on topics related to personal experience and in a variety of time frames and aspects.
use culturally appropriate vocabulary and idiomatic expressions and recognize differences
and similarities in the perspectives of the target culture and their own
Spanish Intermediate 3 All Year 6 credits
(5841) Honors
(5830) College Prep
Honors Prerequisite: B+ or better in Spanish Intermediate 2 (A in Spanish Intermediate 2 CP)
and/or the recommendation of the World Language Department
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The aim of this course is to elevate language to a higher level of spoken, comprehensive and
cultural proficiency. The course will focus on the cultural and historic relevance of Hispanic
countries through authentic texts, film and music. Students engage in communication activities
based on realistic cultural contexts.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
communicate oral and written information about familiar topics with a higher degree of
accuracy
demonstrate an understanding of general concepts, main ideas and more specific
information about both familiar and unfamiliar topics
demonstrate culturally appropriate vocabulary and interpretation of oral and written texts
AP Spanish Language All Year 6 credits
(5852) Advanced Placement
Prerequisite: B+ or better in Spanish Intermediate 2 (A in Spanish Intermediate 2 CP) and/or
recommendation of the World Language Department
The AP Spanish Language and Culture course is intended for students who wish to develop
proficiency and integrate their language skills, using authentic materials and sources. The
course helps prepare students to demonstrate their level of Spanish proficiency across three
communicative modes (Interpersonal, Interpretive and Presentational), and the five goal areas
outlined in the Standards for World Language Learning in the 21
st
Century.
Students who take this course will be expected to take the Advanced Placement examination in
May.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
identify and summarize the main points and significant details and make appropriate
inferences and predictions from a spoken source on an academic or cultural topic
identify and summarize the main points and significant details and predict outcomes form an
everyday conversation on a familiar topic
identify and summarize main points and important details and make appropriate inferences
and predictions from a written text
write a cohesive and coherent analytical or persuasive essay in relation to a text
describe, narrate, and present information or persuasive arguments on general topics with
grammatical control and good pronunciation in oral presentations
communicate via formal and informal written correspondence
initiate, maintain and close a conversation on a familiar topic
formulate questions to seek clarification or additional information
use language that is semantically and grammatically accurate according to a given context
demonstrate an expanded knowledge of the perspectives, practices and products of
Spanish-speaking societies.
Summer assignments: Students enrolled in Spanish AP Language will read articles from a
variety of authentic print sources and listen to a variety of auditory sources. They will be
expected to write summaries of articles and express their opinions on the themes presented in
the articles.
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SPECIAL PROGRAMS
ACADEMIC SUPPORT
Open to grades 9-12 No credit
Prerequisite: IEP Team Recommendation
Course Objectives
The goal of Academic Support Service, which is provided in a substantially separate setting, is
to maximize a student's access to and success with the high school curriculum, and to assist
students in effectively planning for transition to post-secondary opportunities. The Academic
Support Service is available to students with a current Individual Educational Program (IEP)
who require additional instruction in order for them to make effective progress at Dover-
Sherborn High School.
This class focuses on empowering each student to become an independent learner who can
successfully employ strengths and strategies to compensate for areas of weakness. Academic
support focuses on the goals and objectives identified in the student's Individualized
Educational Program (IEP). Instructional time is devoted to supporting students on their goal
areas as they impact access to curriculum. Some of these supports could include developing
effective executive functioning skills and learning academic strategies with specific links to
content area requirements. Students are encouraged to utilize technology and apply higher
order critical thinking skills that relate to the high school curriculum. Students are provided
instruction to become more efficient learners who are able to independently manage their
academic responsibilities. Among other priorities, special educators and instructional support
staff may focus on the following activities based upon the student profile:
Support all IEP goal areas
Support strategies in reading, writing, and mathematics
Assignment planning/recording
Development and use of outlines
Management of long-term projects
Academic content review
Study skills/test preparation
Executive functioning skills
Transition planning/support
Life skills
In-class support
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GROWTH RESILIIENCE INTEGRITY TENACITY (G.R.I.T.) PROGRAM
Open to grades 9-12 No credit
Prerequisite: IEP Team Recommendation
Program Objectives
The G.R.I.T. Program is based on a therapeutic learning center model, which services students
with emotional disabilities, social-emotional challenges, behavioral obstacles, and academic
challenges. The main structure is a home-base setting to support all areas of students‘
functioning when students require more assistance than they can receive in a traditional model
of intervention. Students receive support through a special education liaison and the program‘s
counselor and educational assistant(s) within one classroom available throughout the entire
school day.
The G.R.I.T. program services students with a variety of disabilities with a primary barrier of
social and emotional functioning. The students take general education classes and receive
support through a special education liaison and the program‘s counselor. The liaison and
counselor engage in regular communication with parents, outside therapists, general education
teachers, guidance counselors, department heads and the principal/administrative team to
apprise them of the student‘s progress and status. Special educators and instructional support
staff may focus on the following activities based upon the student profile:
Support all IEP goal areas
Social-emotional skill building
Planning for and managing day to day tasks
Support strategies in reading, writing, and mathematics
Assignment planning/recording
Development and use of outlines
Management of long-term projects
Academic content review
Study skills/test preparation
Executive functioning skills
Transition planning/support
Life skills
In-class support
LANGUAGE BASED INSTRUCTIONAL PROGRAM
Language Based Instruction
(9769) All Year 6 credits
(9759) All Year 3 credits
Prerequisite: IEP Team Recommendation
Language-based learning disability (LBLD) is the inability of individuals with average to above
average cognitive ability to learn at their level of potential and to access curriculum through
traditional educational techniques due to neurologically-based challenges with the processing
and expression of language. Students with LBLD require explicit skill-based, strategy-based
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instruction to develop literacy and support executive function. Executive function coordinates the
cognitive and psychological processes necessary for effective communication.
The Region‘s objective is to provide students with language-based learning disabilities a
language-based instructional model. The model integrates language-based strategies and
interventions into the student‘s general education classrooms through a collaborative approach
with the language based specialist, general education faculty and the speech and language
pathologist. The model includes a language-based instructional block within the academic day.
This class, Language-Based Instruction (LBI), explicitly teaches the skills, strategies, and
methods needed for students with this profile to succeed in the following areas:
Reading Foundation Skills: Instruction in phonemic awareness, decoding, fluency, and
spelling.
Reading Comprehension Skills: Instruction in recognizing and retaining specific details,
summarizing, inferential reasoning, analysis of text, making connections to prior
knowledge, making predictions, and finding the main idea.
Written and Oral Expression Skills: Instruction in the use of vocabulary, paraphrasing,
thematic development, organization of thought, single and multi paragraph development,
grammar, semantics and syntax.
Executive Functions: Organization, time management, note-taking, research and report
writing, self-advocacy, self-regulation and self efficiency.
Assistive Technology: Instruction in digital binder organization, creating templates,
speech-to-text technology, access to audio/digitally formatted text.
ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE
English as a Second Language I All Year 6 credits
(1120) Open to all grades
English as a Second Language (ESL) courses are designed for the rapid mastery of the English
language, focusing on reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. ESL courses usually begin
with extensive listening and speaking practice, building on auditory and oral skills, and then
move on to reading and writing. These courses provide an explanation of basic structures of the
English language, enabling students to progress from an elementary understanding of English
words and verb tenses to a more comprehensive grasp of various formal and informal styles
and then to advance to ―regular‖ English courses. ESL classes may also include an orientation
to the customs and culture of the diverse population in the United States.
English as a Second Language II All Year 6 credits
(1330) College Prep
Open to all grades
English as a Second Language (ESL) courses are designed for the rapid mastery of the English
language, focusing on reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. ESL courses usually begin
with extensive listening and speaking practice, building on auditory and oral skills, and then
move on to reading and writing. These courses provide an explanation of basic structures of the
English language, enabling students to progress from an elementary understanding of English
words and verb tenses to a more comprehensive grasp of various formal and informal styles
and then to advance to ―regular‖ English courses. ESL classes may also include an orientation
to the customs and culture of the diverse population in the United States.
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SENIOR PROJECT
Senior Project (Academic Option) A Senior Project is a six to eight week unpaid independent
internship offering seniors an opportunity to learn in an educational environment not previously
available to the student. The internship should focus on a career related interest. At the end of
the internship, students will write a culminating paper and showcase their experience through a
multimedia presentation to friends, family and faculty.
Admittance to this program is based upon a written proposal explaining the educational value as
well as the feasibility of the project. Senior Project proposals are subject to review and approval
by the Principal. A written statement by a faculty mentor is submitted in lieu of a grade.
Participation in the Senior Project program requires punctuality, good attendance, responsible
citizenship and satisfactory academic achievement. Satisfactory academic achievement is
considered having no final grades senior year below a 70 and no outstanding incompletes.
Students MUST fulfill their Community Service obligation by the end of the first semester of
senior year to be eligible for participation in Senior Project.
A student will be ineligible for Senior Project if he/she has accumulated 6 unexcused
tardies in either semester of senior year or if a student has lost credit in a course for
excessive absences or has been removed for excessive class cuts junior or senior year.
Students should note that participation in a skip day will result in loss or termination of Senior
Project. Skipping a class during Senior Project or a day at a student‘s Senior Project placement
will result in removal from Senior Project and be placed back into classes. Suspension from
school during senior year may result in ineligibility for or removal from Senior Project.
If a student is absent from Senior Project placement, the parent/guardian must call and notify
the high school of the absence. This will count as an absence from school. That morning the
parent/guardian must also contact the teacher mentor at the high school and the person that the
student is assigned to at the senior project placement. Students should be aware that they will
not be released from an Advanced Placement Course until after the AP exam for that course
has been administered, and then only with teacher approval.
Students planning to participate in a Senior Project that requires them to leave and/or return to
the high school campus for classes are strongly encouraged to purchase a year-long parking
pass when they are available at the beginning of the school year or make alternative plans for
transportation. Senior Project students have no guarantee that a temporary pass will be
available once Senior Project begins.
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COMMUNITY SERVICE
Graduation Requirement
Dover-Sherborn High School is committed to the benefits of a Community Service Graduation
Requirement. Students are required to demonstrate proof of forty (40) hours community
service. The definition of service and what constitutes a service activity can be found online on
the High School website on the Dover-Sherborn Community Service Blog.. Not all volunteer
hours will be approved as community service. Prior to beginning a service project, students are
advised to consult the Community Service blog or discuss their specific community service
activity with the Community Service Director to ensure it qualifies as community service.
Verification of community service hours are approved by the Community Service Director and
will be kept in a student file throughout their four years in high school, and must be turned in
within a year of completing the service. It is strongly recommended that students complete ten
(10) hours per year.
Students who transfer to Dover Sherborn High School after freshman year will be required to
complete 10 hours of community service per year for each year they are attending DS. For
example, students entering in their sophomore year will be required to complete 30 hours of
community service.
CHINA EXCHANGE PROGRAM
China Exchange Participant Spring Semester 12 credits
(4830)
The China Exchange Program was established between Dover-Sherborn and Hangzhou High
School in 2002 to enable students to have a rich cultural interchange with people in another
country. Each year several students and a teacher tour areas of China, live with host families,
and attend school in Hangzhou.
To participate in the program, students must be in good academic standing and are
expected to enroll in the Modern China course during the first semester and, if possible, a
Chinese language class at DSHS. Upon their return, seniors are required to present a Senior
Porject based on their experiences in China. They are also expected to participate in a
presentation of their experiences at the China Banquet fundraiser upon their return. While in
China, students are expected to fulfill DS class requirements as contracted by their teachers.
Students will receive 12 credits for the work that they complete related to the exchange and a
letter will be sent from guidance with the student‘s college applications explaining the exchange.
Students are expected to return to their DS class requirements upon their return as previously
approved by the Principal.
Applications and interviews for the China Exchange program are accepted from sophomores
and juniors in the spring preceding their junior or senior year. These applications are available
online on the China Exchange website which is linked to the DS site. The actual exchange
generally takes place during the second semester beginning with the Chinese New Year.
Students return to DSHS in time for AP exams and all senior activities. Cost of the airfare and
travel expenses are the responsibility of the student. Living expenses in Hangzhou, aside from
personal items, are subsidized by the Hangzhou hosts.
Modern China Tutorial Fall Semester 3 credits
(4820)
Open to students participating in the China Exchange during the fall semester prior to departure
to China.
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DIRECTED RESEARCH
Open to grades 9-12 No credit
Directed Research blocks within a student‘s daily schedule are educational opportunities for the
student to seek tutorial support from a teacher, to conduct research in an area of study, to work
on current course assignments or to gather with other students in study groups.
INDEPENDENT STUDY
Under the ―Student Learning Time Regulation‖ adopted by the MA Department of Elementary
and Secondary Education, December 27, 1994, Independent Study may be included as
―structured learning time.‖ Students may petition the Principal for independent study for either
three or six elective credits and grades will not be included in a student‘s GPA. Independent
study should be reserved for a project or program that is not currently offered in the school.
Students must finalize plans within the first two weeks of each semester. A signed contract with
clear expectations must be filed with the guidance office. Students must have signatures from
involved teachers, the appropriate coordinator and the Principal.
DSHS SCHOOL TO CAREER SUCCESS PATH
The Dover Sherborn High School School to Career Program provides students in grade 11 or
12 an opportunity to meet their academic graduation requirements while gaining meaningful
work experience. Through this employment experience, students will work on developing and
growing the knowledge, skills and self-confidence to be successful in the workplace, in higher
education and in life.
Students participating in School to Career will attend their academic classes daily and be
granted a late arrival/early dismissal to participate in employment during school hours.
Students who do not abide by the expectations of the School to Career program will be removed
from the program and may not receive credit. Students must agree to abide by the following
expectations:
Academic Expectations
School to Career hours will replace up to 3 scheduled classes at either the beginning or
the end of the day (flexible based on student and employer preference).
o Students who enroll in a 12 credit option will replace 2 full year courses with
School to Career.
o Students who enroll in a 18 credit option will replace 3 full year courses with
School to Career
o Semester-based courses can be considered and included in this formula.
Students will be enrolled in at least 3 courses throughout the entire year and must
maintain passing grades in all academic subjects. Students who are in danger of not
passing their classes may be temporarily removed from the program until they are back
in good academic standing.
If absent from school, the student will not attend work on the same day. The student may
be removed from the School to Career program if they attend work and not school.
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The student will attend their classes daily, as listed on their schedule.
The DSHS course/academic attendance policy applies to School to Career.
Students will be graded Pass/Fail for their participation in the School to Career Program.
This will not calculate into a student's GPA.
All grade 9 & 10 academic requirements must be completed prior to starting School to
Career.
A final presentation/celebration will be required.
School to Career Expectations
Students are expected to secure their own employment prior to starting the program.
Students must sign the DSHS School to Career Contract and complete a Dover
Sherborn Public Schools Consent/Liability form prior to participating in this program.
Students are responsible for arranging transportation to and from the job site.
Students must work 10 - 15 hours per week during school days.
Students who enroll in a 12 credit School to Career must work at least 10 hours per
week.
Students who enroll in an 18 credit School to Career must work at least 15 hours per
week.
Students will submit signed timesheets weekly or pay stubs for each pay period. This
may be completed electronically.
Students must inform their Guidance Counselor about any thoughts of quitting their job
prior to giving notice to the employer.
Students must inform their Guidance Counselor if they are terminated from their job.
If the student quits or is terminated from employment a re-entry meeting will be held to
determine the student‘s academic plan going forward. This can include the potential for a
fifth year.
The student must be in good standing regarding school attendance, tardies and
discipline.
THE EDUCATION COOPERATIVE (TEC)
CONNECTIONS LEARNING & TEC INTERNSHIPS
TEC- Connections Learning
TEC, in conjunction with member schools, will offer a variety of online courses during the 2022-
2023 school years. Students opting for a TEC Connections Learning course are required to sign
an Acceptable Use Policy form (AUP) specific to the TEC Connections Learning.
Why take a TEC Connections learning course?
Develop communication and collaboration skills you need to be successful in college and
career
Take innovative courses that may not be offered in your own school
Flexibility and independence! Be in charge of your own learning schedule
Are you self-motivated, able to structure your time and meet deadlines? Developing these
habits is essential to succeed with online courses. Since there is no face-to-face contact with
your instructor or peers, you must take responsibility for your learning and create routines to
ensure that you actively participate in your course outside of the school day.
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Students will receive elective credit upon earning a passing grade, unless otherwise pre-
approved by the Principal prior to the student‘s enrollment. Online TEC-sponsored courses do
not fulfill graduation requirements and are not factored into a student‘s GPA, unless the course
is specifically pre-approved by the Principal. Course subscription costs are the responsibility of
the student. Please meet with your guidance counselor for assistance with the registration
process. Course Request Forms can be obtained in the Guidance Office.
For more information regarding this initiative please contact TEC:
Telephone: Antoinette Lahore at 781-352-5719
Website: https://tec-coop.org/tec-online-learning/
Please note: Due to serving a number of member school districts, the TEC Connections
learning school calendar may differ slightly from the Dover Sherborn High School
calendar.
TEC -The Education Cooperative/ Internship program - “What do you want to be when
you grow up?”
The Education Cooperative (TEC) provides a variety of custom real work internship experiences
for high school juniors, seniors and even college students. Our career services program is a
work-based educational internship learning experience that often helps to bridge the gap
between academics and a potential career choice. These explorations can help enrich
academics, motivate students to learn, and apply their education to real-world practices. This
program can benefit varying academic levels of students. Internships are an invaluable asset
for any student. Many colleges have found that students that participate in an internship are
more focused and academically successful. TEC‘s internship program provides meaningful
hands-on experience in a supervised professional environment, ensuring that students are able
to realize their full potential. This opportunity provides career exploration in a field the student
might wish to pursue upon graduation from high school and beyond.
In TEC‘s Signature internship program, students volunteer their time for a total of sixty hours,
approximately 12-18 hours per week in the summer. Those participating in the Academic Year
program students work 5 hours per week, 2-3 afternoons after school for approximately 3
months. In lieu of payment, Dover-Sherborn students receive 3 credits for a successfully
completed internship. The Extended internship Program allows students to spend 8-10 hours
each week for an entire school year at an internship site. Guidance and Principal approval for
extended internship participation is required.
This program can benefit a variety of students:
Students who learn more effectively through hands-on experience
High achievers and those who may not have a full academic course schedule and would
like to engage in career exploration
Students with an IEP and a grade average of C or better
Students with little enthusiasm for academics
Internships can occur during the school day in conjunction with a student‘s rotating schedule;
after school (no after school sport participation is allowed while doing an internship); or even
during the summer.
The scheduled days and hours are determined individually by each student‘s availability and the
internship placement. We take into consideration a student‘s interests, transportation limitations
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and geographical parameters when coordinating a suitable placement. A student‘s internship
may involve assisting with a project, shadowing a professional, or independently working on
assigned tasks, thus allowing him/her to identify a primary career of interest and establish work
experience.
Career Exploration Internship Program costs:
Internship Cost Signature program Academic Year (Fall or Spring) $850
For applications- https://tec-coop.org/career-exploration/
For any further questions please contact:
Emily Manz [email protected]rg
TEC 781-352-5700
Please see TEC website for application deadlines
Extended Day TEC Internship All Year 12 credits
(9800) College Prep
This program involves work-based learning plans linked to the student's high school curriculum
during senior year. The time commitment is 8-10 hours/week and is individually worked out to
best mesh with the student's academic schedule. Interested seniors are directed to speak with
their school counselor in the Guidance Office. Entry to this program requires recommendation
by committee, good citizenship and academic standing. Approved seniors must provide their
own transportation to and from school to the Internship site.
Currently TEC is only offering the Academic Year (Fall or Spring) and Summer Internships if a
student is interested in pursuing a full year Extended internship, please speak with your
guidance counselor and they will contact TEC to see if it is a possibility.
VOCATIONAL-TECHNICAL EDUCATION
The towns of Dover and Sherborn are served by two outstanding vocational/technical schools.
Minuteman Regional High School serves residents of Dover and Tri-County Regional High
School serves residents of Sherborn. Students entering grades 9 through 12 who wish to
receive a vocational or technical education as well as completing an array of other academic
courses have the option of attending either Minuteman or Tri-County instead of Dover-Sherborn
High School. Students who complete the graduation requirements from their respective
vocational/technical school receive a high school diploma from that school as well as
certification in their chosen career area.
Dover-Sherborn graduates who do not have immediate career or post-secondary plans may
wish to consider enrolling for daytime, post-high school technical training as an extension of
their education.
For additional information regarding the high school or post-high school programs, please call
the Admissions Office at the school serving your town.
Minuteman: Tel: 781-861-6500 or Tri-County: 508-528-5400
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THE VIRTUAL HIGH SCHOOL
The Virtual High School All Year 6 credits
AP
The Virtual High School Semester 3 credits
Standard/Honors
The Virtual High School program unites teachers and students from a variety of social,
economic, and geographic backgrounds to study and collaborate with one another in a virtual
learning environment. They offer a wide range of unique elective offerings, including many
Advanced Placement courses.
Students interested in electing VHS courses should have proven success in honors level
courses and self confidence in their ability to succeed in an independent learning environment.
Semester courses as well as full year courses are available. Students may enroll in a
maximum of two semester courses or one full year course. For more information or to view the
course catalog, visit the Virtual High School website at http://vhslearning.org. Please see your
guidance counselor for information on enrolling. Also pay close attention to add/drop dates as
they are earlier than Dover-Sherborn High School‘s dates.
VHS courses require students be actively engaged in their coursework approximately 6-8
hours for a standard level class, 8-10 hours for an honors level class, and 10-12 hours for
an AP level class each week. Courses are monitored by an online instructor on a weekly
basis.
Only under extenuating circumstances can a student withdraw from a VHS class. All VHS
students are expected to complete the entire course. Any VHS student taking an Advanced
Placement (AP) course is expected to complete the AP exam for that course.
All courses taken through Virtual High School will not be included in a student's GPA. Courses
and grades will be listed on the transcript as Virtual High School. Students may be able to take
a course to satisfy graduation requirements if approved by the Principal in advance.