Dundalk High School

 

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Art
Avid
Business
Completers Programs
Course Descriptions
English
Family Studies
Grad.Requirements
Math
Music
NJROTC
Physical Education
Science
Social Studies
Technology Education
World Language

 

 Course Descriptions

 

Select the links below to obtain course descriptions offered at Dundalk High School.

 

 

Art

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Digital Arts I

Course Number: 41.1010.0

Course Number: 41.1010.5 (GT)

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Fundamentals of Art

Credit: 1

This course provides the foundation for Intermedia and examines the elements of art and principles of design as they relate to the studies of illustration, graphic design, and visual communication. They will maintain a portfolio of work in both a traditional and electronic format.

Design in Clay I

Course Number: 40.8210.0

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Fundamentals of Art

Credit: ½

Students will explore a variety of hand building clay techniques using design criteria. Students will have opportunities to explore functional and non-functional clay works through an analysis of past and contemporary collections and apply their knowledge in design.

Design in Clay II

Course Number: 40.8220.0 

Prerequisites: Successful completion of Design in Clay I

Credit: ½

Students will solve a variety of design problems in clay to reflect personal expression. Students will study functional and non-functional artworks and apply their knowledge to the creation of personal work reflecting a variety of purposes.

Fine Arts

Course Number: 40.3000.0

Course Number: 40.3000.5 (GT)

Prerequisites: Successful completion of Fundamentals of Art

Credit: 1

This course provides opportunities for students to refine skills developed in Fundamentals of Art. Students will study and critique artistic styles and trends and apply knowledge gained in their own work. Emphasis is placed on working from observation using drawing, painting, and 3-D media and incorporating imaginative ideas to begin developing a personal style. Students in this course will be required to maintain a sketchbook and a portfolio.

Fundamentals of Art (Art I)

Course Number: 40.1010.0

Prerequisite: None

Credit: 1

Note: This is the foundation course for a concentrated study in art and satisfies the 1 credit Fine Arts graduation requirement.

Students will develop the foundational skills needed to communicate ideas visually while developing understandings about the contributions of various artists/craftsmen to their cultures. Emphasis is placed on observational drawing and exploring composition and design in the art of various cultures using drawing, painting, and 3-D media. Students will be encouraged to keep a sketchbook and a portfolio.

Photography I & II

Course Number: 40.4100.0

Course Number: 40.4010.5 (GT)

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Fundamentals of Art.

Credit: 1

In these courses students will have opportunities to learn the basic processes and techniques of photography which include elements of the 35mm and digital camera, composition in photography, and film processing.

Photography III & IV

Course Number: 40.4110.0

Prerequisites: Successful completion of Photography I and II

Credit: 1

Note: A fee may be required.

In advanced courses, emphasis will be on composition, advanced techniques in film processing, and presentation of artwork. Students will explore the purposes of photography and develop a portfolio of artwork.

Photojournalism I

Course Number: 40.4210.0

Prerequisites: Successful completion of Photography I and II and Journalism I

Credit: 1

Photojournalism I provides an introduction to the field of photojournalism. Students will build on technical expertise and artistic understanding gained in Photography I and II and the information gathering and writing techniques gained in Journalism I to become effective reporters. They will work on assignments focusing on spot and general news, sports, features, illustration, and human interest both inside and outside the school.

Studio I (AP & Standard)

Course Number: 40. 3110.0

Course Number: 40. 3110.6 (AP)

Prerequisites: Successful completion of Fine Arts

Credit: 1

This course provides flexibility in planning an independent program for the highly motivated, honors, or GT art student. Emphasis is on preparing a portfolio that reflects the develop-ment of a personal style and/or artistic focus. Opportunities to help students develop depth, breadth, and quality in creating artworks will be provided through the investigations of ideas and art problems, and the exploration and experiences in a variety of media. Students have the option of submitting their portfolio for review by the AP College Board. Career guidance and scholarship opportunities in the visual arts are provided.

Studio II (AP & Standard)

Course Number: 40.3120.0

Course Number: 40.3120.6 (AP)

Prerequisites: Successful completion of Studio I/AP Studio I.

Credit: 1

This course is for students who want to continue the advanced level study begun in Studio I/AP Studio I. It provides flexibility for planning independent study and focuses on experiences that further develop personal artistic style through refinement in three areas of emphasis: 1) quality, 2) concentration in one or more areas of interest, and 3) breadth of experiences in exploring formal, technical, and expressive qualities of works. Students have the option of submitting their portfolios for review by the AP College Board. Career guidance and scholarship opportunities in the visual arts are provided.

 

AVID

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AVID 9

Course Number: 81.0100.0

Prerequisite: None

Credit: 1

The AVID (grade 9) course is an elective class for college bound students. It will provide academic, tutorial, career goal planning, and social support for students through the AVID curriculum (WIC-R) and AVID High School Libraries focus on Writing, Inquiry, Collaboration, and Reading. To ensure success in college-prep courses students work independently and as partners, as well as in teacher and tutor-led collaborative groups. Note-taking, outlining, writing, speaking, reading, test-taking strategies, maintaining organized notebook binders, self-awareness, and preparation for PSAT online are stressed. Students receive introductory information and direction regarding AP classes and may participate in AP classes. In addition, the AVID course includes college motivational activities.

AVID 10

Course Number: 81.0200.0

Prerequisite: None

Credit: 1

This grade 10 course continues with the AVID WIC-R curriculum, advances to more rigorous individual and small-group instruction in support of all the student’s academic courses, and college-awareness activities. Instructional emphasis is on writing skills and helping students to successfully pass High School Assessments. Students continue to receive instruction and practice using PSAT online. Students are given guidance and support in preparation for enrollment in AP classes. AVID tutorials meet individual and group needs for real-time academic support through teacher or tutor-led collaborative work. Tutors serve as role models and as sources of information about college life and expectations. By the end of this course, students are expected to enroll in one or more AP courses.

AVID 11

Course Number: 81.0300.0

Prerequisite: None

Credit: 1

This grade 11 AVID course is an elective class for students who are college bound. To ensure success in college-prep courses, students work independently as well as in teacher or tutor-led collaborative groups. Note-taking, outlining, writing, speaking, reading, test-taking strategies, SAT preparation, and self-awareness are stressed. The course provides college motivational and career exploration activities. Students use problem-solving and decision-making skills. In addition, students work independently and with others in a variety of settings using critical thinking skills to organize information acquired from a variety of sources such as electronic technology and research. By the end of this grade 11 course, students are expected to enroll in at least two or more AP courses.

AVID 12 (Honors)

Course Number: 81.0400.4 (H) (Senior Seminar)

Prerequisite AVID 11

Credit: 1

This AVID Senior Seminar is the culmination of the students’ years in the AVID program. Like all AVID courses, it encompasses WIC-R curriculum and tutors. The course involves substantial critical reading and writing as well as preparation for weekly Socratic Seminars. Students working with tutors are expected to eventually act as moderators for Socratic Seminars. Students receive support in test-readiness for external exams such as AP and International Baccalaureate. Students enrolled in the Senior Seminar are required to complete weekly timed writings and analytical discourses in subjects across the curriculum. In addition, students are required to make written and oral presentations to the class on topics related to college admissions, contemporary issues, and social concerns. During this course, students are expected to apply for admission to several colleges and/or universities.

 

Business Education

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Accounting I

Course Number: 35.2010.0

Prerequisite: None

Credit: 1

Note: Elective in grades 10, 11, and 12

This course emphasizes basic accounting principles. Students learn how to interpret business forms and how to prepare a simple set of accounting records--journals, ledgers, and financial statements.

Accounting II

Course Number: 35.2020.0

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Accounting I

Credit: 1

This course reviews and extends the accounting principles learned in Accounting I and helps develop a marketable skill in keeping, analyzing, and interpreting accounting records and statements.

E-business Management

Course Number: 35.3620.0

Prerequisite: None

Credit: ½

This class will deal with a broad spectrum of topics related to e-business, including e-commerce. The purpose of e-business is to prepare students to be productive employees and entrepreneurs of the fast-changing economy. This course will teach students that e-business is an essential component of the evolving economy. The goal is to teach students to embrace new technologies in e-business, preparing them for their continuing education and making them more valuable employees.

Entrepreneurship

Course Number: 35.4300.0

Prerequisite: None

Credit: ½

This course explores how to start, finance, manage, and market your own business. It features The Business Disc, an interactive laser disk which enables students to work with computers while making business decisions.

Financial Management Using Software Applications

Course Number: 35.4650.0

Prerequisite: None

Credit: 1

This course provides students with the knowledge and practice they need to make informed financial decisions and to successfully manage financial resources for a business. Banking, investing, borrowing, and risk management (insurance) are core content areas of this course. Students will gain knowledge and understanding of revenue, expenses, credit, and money management to enable them to make informed decisions in a highly technical and competitive society. Students will gain competencies in software using Microsoft applications and other financial software. Financial management is a skill that is essential in all business environments.

Marketing Essentials

Course Number: 35.4100.0

Prerequisite: None

Credit: 1

Note: Grade 11 or 12 Standing

This course introduces students to areas of marketing, distribution, and entrepreneurship. Classroom instruction, combined with the high school’s DECA activities, enables the students to gain a basic understanding of distribution as well as career opportunities. Activities include field trips, guest speakers, competitive events, projects, and student research based on individual occupational goals. Although employment is not required for this course, students are encouraged to secure part-time employment. Work-based learning is a strong component of the program, and will be treated as a priority.

Marketing Management

Course Number: 35.4110.0

Prerequisite: Grade 12 Standing

Credit: 1

This course allows students to develop the management skills necessary to start their own business and function in the corporate environment. Students will apply the foundations of marketing learned in the level one course. Our business partners requested the integration of soft skills. In response, this course will include decision-making skills, communication, team building, problem-solving, and customer service.

Principles of Business, Administration, and Management

Course Number: 35.0310.0

Prerequisite: None

Credit: 1

This course provides students with knowledge of the types of businesses, as well as various applications, laws, and theories of business. Along with a brief historical perspective, business terminology and principles will be emphasized. Students will learn to analyze the functions of business through evaluating, planning, organizing, and controlling. Students will: develop the communication skills that are necessary for success in the workplace and college; be expected to think analytically; improve written and oral communication skills; enhance listening and questioning skills; learn and practice the art of conversation; improve public speaking skills; broaden their awareness of career options; practice using teamwork to make decisions and solve problems; and, learn why communication, people, and networking skills can help them succeed in their careers. Additionally, students will develop human resource skills as well as time management and setting priorities. Students will write grammatically correct correspondence and communicate orally.

Software and Computer Applications I

Course Number: 35.2510.0

Prerequisite: Successful completion of a keyboarding course is recommended.

Credit: ½

Students will develop computer literacy that focuses on how computers are utilized for personal, educational, and professional use. The course will use word processing, spreadsheet, and database software in order to produce various documents. Students will be expected to think analytically, manipulate information, and use the computer as a productivity tool through integrated application programs.

Software and Computer Applications II

Course Number: 35.2520.0

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Software and Computer Applications 1 is recommended

Credit: ½

This course is designed for higher-level uses of problem solving and theoretical applications using word processing, spreadsheet, database, and/or presentation graphics software. Further emphasis is placed on oral and written communication skills and the use of technology to enhance work and life skills. Opportunities are provided to earn globally recognized certifications.

 

English

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College Readiness: Reading

Course Number: 10.9360.0

Prerequisite: Juniors and seniors who took the Accuplacer writing test and were deemed to be not "college ready" or "on track."

Credit: ½

This elective is a reading course for juniors and seniors who took the Accuplacer reading test as part of the College Readiness Program and were deemed to be not "college ready" or "on track." Students will focus on strengthening reading skills for college readiness.

College Readiness: Writing

Course Number: 10.9340.0

Prerequisite: For juniors and seniors who took the Accuplacer writing test and were deemed to be not "college ready" or "on track"

Credit: ½ 

This elective is an additional intervention program for students who have not attained the level of "college ready" as indicated by their performance on the Accuplacer writing test that they took at the end of College Readiness Writing.

English 9

Course 10.0900.0

Course 10.0900.4 (H)

Course 10.0900.9 (Review)

Prerequisite: None

Credit: 1

The English 9 program culminates the study of literary genre initiated in middle school and provides a balanced program of reading, writing, speaking, listening, grammar, usage, and mechanics skills within the context of literature. Participating in a variety of integrated, student-centered, interdisciplinary activities, students learn to process information efficiently, examine ideas critically, and express themselves effectively in the real-life worlds of study, work, and leisure.

English 10 - World Literature

Course Number: 10.1000.0

Course Number: 10.1000.4 (H)

Course Number: 10.1000.9 (Review)

Prerequisite: Successful completion of English 9

Credit: 1

Note: This course provides a Service Learning component

English 10, an integrated language arts program of literature, composition, grammar, usage, and mechanics focuses on developing awareness of various world cultures as expressed through literature. The program continues developing skills in reading/interpreting, writing, listening, speaking, language, thinking, and research through the study of a variety of literary genres. Some themes/issues in this course make connections to the grade 10 world history course. This is an HSA course.

English 11 - American Literature

Course Number: 10.1100.0

Course Number: 10.1100.4 (H)

Course Number: 10.1100.9 (Review)

Prerequisite: Completion of English 10 is recommended

Credit: 1

Note: This course is also offered online

Building on the awareness of the diversity of cultures and literature begun in grade 10, the grade 11 English program provides a balanced program of reading, writing, speaking, listening, grammar, usage, and mechanics skill development within the context of an expanded and updated canon of American literature reflecting the cultural and ethnic mosaic of American society. The themes and issues studied make direct connections to the grade 11 American history course.

English 12 - British Literature

Course Number: 10.1200.0

Course Number: 10.1200.4 (H)

Course Number: 10.1200.9 (Review)

Prerequisite: Completion of English 11 is recommended

Credit: 1

Note: This course is also offered online

English 12, a course built around British literature, emphasizes reading and analyzing literature; writing clear and logical compositions, including a research paper; refining grammar, usage, and mechanics skills; developing research and study skills; participating in a program of outside reading; and practicing skills needed for formal, oral presentations. Students learn to process information efficiently, examine ideas critically, and express themselves effectively as they prepare for post-graduation academic study and work.

Introduction to Creative Writing

Course Number: 10.1360.0

Credit: 1

Course Number: 10.1370.0

Credit: ½

This course introduces all aspects of creative writing, including poems, short stories, short plays, and essays.

Journalism I

Course 10.1510.0

Credit: 1

Course 10.1550.0

Credit: 1

Course 10.1810.0

Credit: ½

Prerequisite: None

Journalism I prepares students with the fundamentals for writing, producing, and editing school newspapers.

Journalism II

Course 10.1520.4 (H)

Credit: 1

Course 10.1560.4 (H)

Credits: 2

Course 10.1820.4 (H)

Credit: ½

Prerequisites: Successful completion of Journalism I.

This advanced course provides the production staff for the local school newspaper. Skills developed in Journalism are applied to all levels of newspaper preparation and distribution.

Journalism III

Course Number: 10.1530.4 (H)

Credit: 1

Course Number: 10.1570.4 (H)

Credits: 2

Course Number: 10.1830.4 (H)

Credit: ½

Prerequisites: Successful completion of Journalism II

For this course, students must accept major leadership responsibility, usually as an editor, for the school paper. This group must meet with the Journalism II production staff at least three periods a week.

Language! A-B, Language! C-D, and Language! E-F  9th Grade

Course 10.0930.0 (Language! A-B)

Course 10.0940.0 (Language! C-D)

Course 10.0960.0(Language! E-F)

Prerequisite: This course is for grade 9 students who are lacking in specific reading and comprehension skills. A placement test is administered for correct placement.

Credit: 1

Note: This course runs concurrently with Literacy/Language 9.

Language! is a comprehensive reading program that integrates the skills necessary for students to become proficient readers, such as: phonemic awareness, grammar, comprehension strategies and writing skills.

Language! A-B, Language! C-D, and Language! E-F 10th Grade

Course 10.1020.0 (Language! A)

Course 10.1030.0 (Language! B)

Course 10.1040.0(Language! C)

Course 10.1050.0 (Language! D)

Course 10.1060.0 (Language! E)

Course 10.1070.0 (Language! F)

Prerequisite: This course is for grade 10 students who are lacking in specific reading and comprehension skills. A placement test is administered for correct placement. Students move from Book A/B to Book C/D and Book E/F.

Credits: 2

Note: This course runs concurrently with English 10. Students must register for both courses. Students will receive 2 elective credits.

Language! is a comprehensive reading program that integrates the skills necessary for students to become proficient readers, such as: phonemic awareness, grammar, comprehension strategies and writing skills.

Language! A-B, Language! C-D, and Language! E-F 11th Grade

Course Number: 10.1160.0(Language! A-B)

Course Number: 10.1170.0 (Language! C-D)

Course Number: 10.1180.0 (Language! E-F)

Prerequisite: This course is for grade 9 students who are lacking in specific reading and comprehension skills. A placement test is administered for correct placement. Students move from Book A/B to Book C/D and Book E/F.

Credit: 1

Note: This course runs concurrently with Literacy/Language 11. Students must register for both courses.

Language! is a comprehensive reading program that integrates the skills necessary for students to become proficient readers, such as: phonemic awareness, grammar, comprehension strategies and writing skills.

Language and Composition

Course Number: 10.9100.4

Credit: 1

Course Number: 10.9110.4

Credit: ½

Prerequisite: None

Note: This course is an elective for sophomores and juniors to be taken concurrently with Honors English 10 or 11 or as a "come-back" course for students enrolled in the AP English classes.

This course is designed to provide students with additional opportunities to develop the skills in critical thinking, analytical reading, and college-level writing that they need to be successful on the AP English tests.

Literacy/Language 9

Course Number: 10.0950.0

Prerequisite: This course is for grade 9 students who are lacking in specific reading and comprehension skills. A placement test is administered for correct placement.

Credit: 1

Note: This course runs concurrently with Language! A-B, C-D, E-F.

Language! is a comprehensive reading program that integrates the skills necessary for students to become proficient readers, such as: phonemic awareness, grammar, comprehension strategies and writing skills.

Literacy/Language 11

Course 10.1190.0

Prerequisites: This course is for grade 11 students who are lacking in specific reading and comprehension skills. A placement test is administered for correct placement.

Credit: 1

Note: This course runs concurrently with Language! A-B, C-D, or E-F.

Language! is a comprehensive reading program that integrates the skills necessary for students to become proficient readers, such as: phonemic awareness, grammar, comprehension strategies and writing skills.

Speech I

Credit: 1

Course Number: 10.2550.0

Credit: ½

Prerequisite: None

This is an introductory course in interpersonal communication and public speaking. It is designed to serve as either a self-contained program or as a springboard to more advanced courses and activities in public speaking, competitive speaking, or mass communication. It is not a speech correction course.

Speech II

Credit: 1

Course Number: 10.2560.4 (H)

Credit: ½

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Speech I

This course focuses on public speaking. Students will gain skills beyond those taught in Speech I and will be exposed to a wider variety of speeches and public speaking opportunities.

Technical Writing

Course Number: 10.4510.0

Credit: 1

Course Number: 10.4610.0

Credit: ½

In this course, students will learn the basics of technical writing.

Theatre Arts I

Course Number: 10.3010.0

Credit: 1

Prerequisite: None

Note: If completed for one credit, this course satisfies 1 credit of the fine arts graduation requirement. If completed for ½ credit, this ½ credit satisfies ½ credit of the fine arts credit requirement.

This course develops an understanding of theatre arts, including activities for voice and body. It includes an introduction to aspects of the visual theatre (scenery, lighting, costumes, and make-up).

Theatre Arts II

Course Number: 10.3020.4 (H)

Credit: 1

Prerequisites: Successful completion of Theatre Arts I

Note: If Theatre Arts I was taken for 1/2 credit, Theatre Arts II will satisfy another 1/2 credit of the Fine Arts graduation requirement.

In addition to a more refined approach to creative drama and technical theatre, this course includes script interpretation, character development, and scenic design.

Theatre Arts III

Course Number: 10.3030.4 (H)

Credit: 1

Prerequisites: Successful completion of Theatre Arts I and II

This course is directed to students having special aptitude for theatre. In addition to in-class course work, students will be responsible for independent projects from such areas as creative drama for children, reader’s theatre, puppet theatre, and design and production.

Yearbook I

Course Number: 10.2010.0

Credit: 1

Prerequisite: None

Yearbook I develops the skills necessary to produce the school yearbook; copy writing, photography, layout, budgeting, promotion, and art design are addressed.

Yearbook II

Course Number: 10.2020.4 (H)

Credit: 1

Prerequisites: Successful completion of Yearbook I

In this course, the student continues to apply yearbook skills, extend areas of expertise, and assume more responsibility, usually in an editorial or management position, in the production of the school yearbook.

Yearbook III

Course Number: 10.2030.4 (H)

Credit: 1

Prerequisites: Successful completion of Yearbook I and II

In this course, the student continues to apply yearbook skills, extend areas of expertise, and assume more responsibility in an editorial or management position in the production of the school yearbook.

Yearbook IV

Course Number: 10.2040.5 (GT)

Credit: 1

Prerequisites: Successful completion of Yearbook I, II, and III

In this course, students continue to refine yearbook skills and assume more responsibility in an editorial or management position in the production of the school yearbook.

 

Family Studies

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Child Development I/Education for Responsible Parenthood (HH)

Course Number: 65.1310.0*

Course Number: 65.1310.4 (H)*

Prerequisite: None

Credit: 1

Note: Elective for grades 11 and 12

Topics of study include influences on parenthood practices, child development, guiding child behavior, and responsibilities of parenthood. Students participate in a child development laboratory for preschool age children.

Living with Biotechnology

Course Number: 65.4540.0

Credit: ½ (T)

Note: The (T) designates that this course is approved as a match to fulfill ½ credit of the 1 .0 technology education credit required for graduation for graduating classes of 2008, 2009, and 2010 only.

Developments in biotechnology that impact personal and family living such as bioengineered foods, irradiated foods, genetic counseling, invitro-fertilization, and genetic fingerprinting are investigated.

Nutrition and Foods I

Course Number: 65.2010.0

Prerequisite: None

Credit: 1

The contribution of food to life-long wellness is studied in this course. Laboratory experiences are used to help students learn about the nutritive, psychological, and social aspects of eating. Consumer information related to food is included.

 

Math

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Algebra I

Course Number: 20.2100.0

Prerequisite: None

Credit: 1

Note: This course is also offered online.

Algebra I provides the foundation for a program in higher mathematics. The course includes simulations, data analysis, linear functions and graphs, systems of linear equations, irrational numbers, operations with polynomials, and exploration of nonlinear equations. Algebra I requires the use of a graphing calculator. (This is a High School Assessment course.)

Algebra II

Course Number: 20.2200.0

Course Number: 20.2200.4 (Honors)

Course Number: 20.2210.5 (Magnet)

Prerequisites: Successful completion of Algebra I is required. Teacher recommendation is required for Honors Algebra II. (Students who received a D in Algebra I are encouraged to retake the course in Summer School.)

Credit: 1

Note: This course is also offered online.

This course extends algebraic processes and models to matrices, systems of inequalities, linear programming, absolute value functions, quadratic relations and functions, complex numbers, rational equations, exponential functions, and logarithms. Algebra II requires of a graphing calculator.

Geometry

Course 20.3000.0

Course 20.3000.4 (Honors)

Course 20.0900.5 (GT9)

Course 20.0900.7 (IB)

Course 20.3010.5 (Magnet)

Prerequisites: Successful completion of Algebra I is recommended. Teacher recommendation is required for Honors Geometry and GT9 Geometry. (Students who received a D in Algebra I are encouraged to retake the course in Summer School.) Only 1 credit in Geometry may be earned.

Credit: 1

Note: This course is also offered online.

This course develops the important ideas of Euclidean geometry and the analytic-synthetic method of proof and lays a foundation for subsequent courses in mathematics and science. High school geometry is primarily deductive and employs methods of logical reasoning. Geometry from an algebraic perspective is emphasized throughout.