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AFTERNOON BLOCK REQUIRED CLASSES Each student completes all of the following main block courses: Literature and Composition: Junior High Each literature and composition course incorporates grammar, the eight parts of speech, cases, advanced phraseology, clauses, complex sentence structure and English usage. A formal expository paper three times a year is required at the end of each English block. Each of the following is a year-long course. European Youth Classics Robert Coles’ studies reveal that children worldwide have an openness to inquiry joined with a profoundly moral capacity for kindness despite their lack of maturity. As youngsters mature, they are faced with the choice to commit to compassion and imagination or to conform to a harsh, prejudiced world view. These themes are explored in each of the class readings. Sample Sources:
American Youth Classics Maslow's theories of moral development provide a framework to evaluate the actions of each literary character in each of our class readings. Sample Sources:
Literature and Composition: Senior High Ancient Classics and Mythology The concept of the mythic journey is studied in this course. The theme of the “common man” as hero is introduced in the first English novels. Students write original stories patterned after the mythic journey. Sample Sources:
Shakespeare Class readings, literary studies and 3 expository papers are based on themes inherent in various Shakespeare plays. Creative writing evolves from freestyle poetry to Elizabethan style sonnets. Shakespeare Plays:
World Literature Involves studying a large selection of neo-classic, romantic, realistic, symbolist and impressionist works and basing 3 expository papers on these works. Focus is given to identifying various moods and structures from the literature studied and developing poetry and prose in each of these styles. Sample Sources:
Two classic film nights at HSC are required in addition to class time in grades 9-12. Science: Junior High Physics Demonstration Students learn basic concepts in physics and explanations for each demonstration. At the end of the class, students perform a physics demonstration show for parents. Botany An introduction to the abundant flora found in Hillside's native forest. Focus is on identification, interconnection and ethnobotanical uses of our native plants as well as an awareness of invasive species and the destruction they cause. General Science General science begins with a study of the basic building blocks from atoms to molecules and provides an introduction to forms of matter (solids, liquids, and gases) and a basis for the study of human biology. Human biology provides an understanding of the development and function of the major organ systems and how they interact within us. Models and dissection are used to clarify the complex and unique complexities of human life. Finally, we continue on with astronomy, exploring stars and galaxies, places and time, and the wonders of our own solar system with a focus on the most amazing object we know of so far in the universe, the planet Earth. Science: Senior High Conceptual Physics (with Algebra I) Conceptual Physics uses math at the Algebra I level. Lab experiments reveal the basic principles of projectile motion, free fall, Newton’s laws of motion, properties of matter, thermodynamics, waves and vibrations as they relate to sound and light. The course begins with discussion of the philosophy of science, the need for a precise language of science (mathematics), a clarification of scientific method and the interaction of science, technology, art and religion in society. Advanced Math-Based Physics (with Algebra II, Trigonometry, Analytical Geometry) - Advanced Advanced Math-Based Physics is a rigorous approach to physics with a heavy emphasis on the mathematics involved. Advanced algebra, analytic geometry and trigonometry are all used to reinforce the students’ understanding of both the science and math. Topics studied include Newton’s laws of motion, rotational and harmonic motion, conservation of momentum and energy, relativity and more. We utilize computer linked motion and force sensors combined with data analysis software in a variety of demonstrations and lab projects. This allows the students to integrate the mathematics into the study of the phenomena we model. This sophisticated approach provides students with the background and understanding needed to pursue future studies in complex science and mathematics. Biology Among trees towering 200 feet above us in the complex native forest ecosystem that surrounds Hillside, we study photosynthesis, cellular respiration, plant biology and vertebrate biology in depth as a basis to better understand change and diversity, the interactions of life in a complex ecosystem, and community and ecological dynamics. We explore such diverse areas as the threats and solutions in our biosphere, population and communities, and the effect of people on the environment. Through daily lab work, class discussions and ecological games we stimulate students’ curiosity about the living world and encourage a lifelong interest in environmental discovery and stewardship.
Social Studies: Junior High We expect students will leave with the knowledge and appreciation of the many diverse cultures of our world. Geography and World Cultures The geography and general histories of Africa, Asia and South America are explored in addition to each region’s indigenous culture. This is enriched through pictures, stories, music, dance, art, food, field trips and speakers. Washington State History and Government Original source materials are extensively used. Students study and compare cultures and values of Pacific Northwest Native Americans, explorers, pioneers, and historic Seattleites. Students visit local Suquamish natives and learn authentic tribal art forms. The course includes a study of the state government as well as the impact major societal events have had on Washington Stare from 1850 -2000. Sample sources:
Social Studies: Senior High Through study of primary sources and analysis of art, music, literature, politics, and philosophy, students are challenged to analyze, to think critically, to look beneath the surface of a work, to find and evaluate the ideas and point of view it expresses—as well as to develop a sense of compassion. Students explore the frames of reference of cultures and individuals and are encouraged to look beyond simple answers to explore the complexity of character and motive in history. Preparation, writing and revision of two research papers help to train students for comparable college work. The culminating activity—based on each student’s research of an historical character—is the scripting and dramatization of a meeting of minds where students engage each other’s characters in conversation and respond to questions from an audience. Western Civilization: Ancient through Renaissance A survey of ancient, medieval, and renaissance history, this course traces the roots and development of civilization’s ideas, creations and problems. Using original source materials such as art, music and texts, we look at the evolution of western attitudes toward the individual, religion, government and the nation-state. Sample Sources:
Western Civilization: Modern World A survey of the history of the modern world, this course traces scientific and political revolutions and their practical and philosophical backgrounds as well as their expression in the contrasting styles of classical and romantic art, music and literature. We explore nationalism as both an ideal and a source of conflict. We study the economic systems of capitalism and socialism and their consequences and critics. We debate Colonialism, 20th Century conflicts, the Cold War, and current problems. We discuss the possibilities of conflict resolution through alternatives such as those adopted by Gandhi or the village of Le Chambon. Original sources include works by Molière, Hobbes, Locke, Voltaire, Rousseau, Marx, Conrad and others. Sample Sources:
United States History We discuss and debate themes of independence, both person and political, the ongoing tension between freedom and security in government and the meaning of America. Diverse roots of American political ideas and archetypes are reviewed through sources from the Bible to John Locke. Students learn to apply methods of historical inquiry. After studying primary sources, they take roles and debate Independence, the Constitution, the causes of the Civil War, and US policy in Vietnam. Music history becomes another avenue for understanding. In one unit, we examine how Rock ‘n’ Roll is a unique American amalgam of African and European traditions arising from a creative response to tragedy and loss. Visual Arts Arts and Crafts – Junior High Emphasizes drawing and design skills. Students work with a variety of media, drawing both from life and imagination while practicing the basics of composition and perspective. Various 3-D and craft media are explored such as weaving, papier mache and clay. Art - Senior High There are several overlapping areas of emphasis: drawing and painting, design and composition, sculpture and crafts. Perspective and landscape are introduced. Drawing and painting includes exploration of still lifes, the figure and portraiture. Tone and line are realized using a wide variety of wet and dry media. Line drawings from nature are used to compose paintings in watercolor, then oil paint, in a stepped exploration of dry and wet media. Principles in composition and design are studied and used in calligraphy, logo design, and commercial design oriented problems.
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