_

Academic Policy and Programs

Brother Rice Named One of the Top 50 Catholic High Schools in America...Again!

Course Descriptions

Curriculum and Educational Support Committees

Grades

Graduation Requirements

Special Report on Brother Rice Academic Leadership

Course Descriptions

Department Chairpersons

Business

Accounting (approval of selection and leveling by the Business Department. Juniors must take a third year of Math as a co-requirement)

The first year is designed to be an overview of the field of bookkeeping. It provides a thorough understanding of the basic principles of double-entry accounting, develops accuracy and neatness in keeping books, and presents methods of personal and social accounting. For those pupils who develop a marked degree of interest and have ability in accounting, the first year course will provide an excellent beginning for more advanced work in this subject in college. Practice sets will be used to add realism to the course.

Accounting Honors (approval of selection by Accounting teacher)

To further the accounting skills of a student who wishes to make a career in the accounting field, new emphasis will be placed on the interpretation of certain types of financial reports and a study of cost analysis, inventory methods, and cash flow will be done. Additionally, automated accounting will be introduced using computer simulations and analysis.

Business Law (no approval necessary; ability leveling by Business Department after student makes the selection)

This course is designed to serve the student who desires to acquaint himself with the laws of business, which can and will affect him in his everyday life and the serious business student who is planning for a future in business. Topics include contracts, bailments, buyer and seller, debtors and creditors, commercial paper, employer-employee, principal-agent, etc. A case-problem approach is taken to enhance the meaning of new terms and concepts presented.

Economics (no approval necessary)

This course is designed to develop an objective, rational way of thinking about economic problems, which will enable future citizens to attack these problems as they encounter them in everyday life. This is a study in which all students should attain an awareness of the function of prices, wages, credit, taxes, etc.; a sound understanding of the economy; knowledge to vote intelligently on economic issues; and use of this knowledge for their own good and that of society.

Microsoft Office (semester course; freshmen requirement)

This one semester introductory course will provide realistic, hands-on computer activities and critical thinking skills to help students create a portfolio of their work. The main focus of the course will cover the following applications: Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel and Microsoft PowerPoint. Students will also explore other office applications and learn proper keyboarding skill techniques using “All the Right Type.”

Consumer Education (no approval necessary)

The course will help students develop the skills they need to best achieve their consumer goals. Areas covered include home-ownership, writing checks, figuring interest rates, preparing budgets, obtaining loans, auto ownership, banking services and insurance.

Drawing and Arts

Technical Drafting Concepts

This course will give the students an introduction to the concepts in computer-aided drafting and design using AutoCAD LT software. Students will develop an understanding of the features and considerations associated with the computer as drafting/design tool. The course presents step-by-step instruction of AutoCAD commands, mode settings drawing aides, shortcuts and other valuable characteristics of AutoCAD.

Computer-Aided Drafting – AutoCAD LT

This course will give students an introduction to the concepts in computer-aided drafting and design using AutoCAD LT software. Students will develop an understanding of the features and considerations associated with the computer as drafting/design tool. The course presents step-by-step instruction of AutoCAD commands, mode settings drawing aides, shortcuts and other valuable characteristics of AutoCAD. The course concentrates on basic concepts and principles of technical drawing such as projection, size description, pictorial representation, techniques, and tools.

Visual Basic

Microsoft Visual Basic will give the student practical experience with an object-oriented event-driven language. Visual Basic allows the student to create attractive and useful applications that fully exploit the graphical user interface (GUI) of Windows. The student will be able to create the interface for his application graphically. The student will set the properties on these objects to refine their appearance and behavior. The student will then make the interface react to the user by writing basic code that responds to events that occur in the interface.

Cisco Networking Academy (approval by the department)

This is a four semester course offered to Juniors and continues through their Senior year. This course is designed to provide students with classroom and laboratory experience in current and emerging networking technology that will empower them in the computer networking field. Instruction included, but is not limited to, OSI model and industry standards, all local, state, and federal safety, building and environmental codes and regulations, networking standards, network terminology and protocols, Local-area Networks (LANS), Wide-area Networks (WANS), Ethernet/Internet IP addressing, problem-solving techniques, use of networking software tools, cable installation, router/switch configuration, and trouble-shooting. At the completion of this course students are eligible to take the CCNA (Certified Cisco Networking Associate) exam.

AP Java

The AP JAVA course is designed to give students the fundamentals of computer science taught in first-year college courses. The course will emphasize programming methodology with a concentration on problem solving and algorithm development. Because the development of computer programs to solve problems is a skill fundamental to study computer science, a large part of the course is built around the development of computer programs or parts of programs that correctly solve a given problem.

Concert Band

This course is open to students with a limited background in instrumental music as well as to students who lack the proficiency to gain admission to the Symphonic Band. Individual instruction as well as group participation is part of this class. As the student progresses and gains the necessary skills, he may be moved to the Symphonic Band.

Symphonic Band

This organization is the most prestigious and the most demanding course in the instrumental music program. Discipline is a must for any Symphonic Band member. During the fall season, the Symphonic Band is involved in various parades and the football games.

Art I

This course introduces the elements and principles of art and the role they play in creating art. The primary focus of Art I is to learn to draw. Other experiences include painting, printmaking, sculpture and ceramics. No former art experiences are necessary. Honors level is also offered. This is a pre-requisite for Art II.

Art II (approval of selection by Art teacher; Art I is a prerequisite)

The focus of this course is to develop an understanding of personal art style. We study artists to understand how they became who they are personally and artistically. We then create works of art in their style and medium. Projects include sculpture, printmaking, ceramics, drawing and painting. Honors level is also offered.

Art III (approval of selection by Art teacher; Art I and II are prerequisites)

This course is developed for a select group who has shown extraordinary talent in the field of Art study. These students pursue their interest on an advanced scale in preparation for entrance into higher education in Art on the college level. Honors level is also offered.

Exploring Art

Exploring Art is a one-semester course, which explores the basics of Art through the introduction of the elements - line, shape, color, texture and form. This is done by experiencing many different materials used in the processes of painting, printmaking, sculpturing, drawing and design.

English

English I (ability leveling by entrance examination)

The freshmen program is designed to concentrate on developing writing and language tools and skills. It is intended to give the students an understanding of the terms and constructions of standard grammar.

Grammar will be taught extensively using a grammar text. Students will write a minimum of four (4) formal essays this year.

The primary emphasis of the literature covered in freshman year is an understanding of the general principles and terms of fiction; secondary emphasis is given to other types of prose especially drama. The literature in the text will be supplemented with paperback books selected for their literary merit.

The student will learn library skills: the Dewey Decimal System and the use of the library catalogue, electronic databases, basic reference books, and information found in the dictionary.

Vocabulary work will consist of Level D of the Sadlier series with additional vocabulary taught in context via literary selections from the text and other readings.

English II (ability leveling by English I teachers)

Sophomores will have one semester of literature and one semester of writing. Literature will consist of the McDougal Littel Grade 10. Outside readings in the form of paperbacks will supplement and compliment the text. The study of literary terms will be continued and expanded.

Grammar will continue to be taught extensively by using a grammar text.

The writing course will heavily utilize the Cainkar Center’s “Writer’s Workbench” program and will focus on college preparation writing skills, i.e., expository writing. The research paper will be taught. Library skills will be taught in conjunction with the research paper, giving students familiarity with the use of databases and reference works, of making a bibliography, and of format and use of note-taking cards.

Vocabulary work will consist of Level E of the Sadlier series with additional vocabulary taught in context via literary selections from the text and other readings.

English III (ability leveling by English II teachers)

Vocabulary work will consist of the Level F of the Sadlier series, and usage will be given special attention in the first semester to prepare the students for the PSAT, the ACT, and the SAT. Concentrated preparation for these tests will be given at appropriate times.

Grammar will be taught extensively using a grammar text.

Literature will consist of a survey course of American literature. It will follow an historical approach and will help the student acquire a knowledge of and appreciation for America’s cultural and literary heritage. Paperbacks will supplement the text. Essays will relate to literary readings.

English IV (ability leveling by English III teachers)

Seniors will have one year of a survey of British literature, following an historical approach. It will help students acquire knowledge of and an appreciation for Great Britain’s cultural heritage, which much affects our own.

Grammar will be taught/reviewed using a grammar text, and essays will be related to literary reading.

Advanced Placement English IV (test fee)

This course is offered as an option, with teacher approval to honors students who wish to take a course to prepare them to take the Advanced Placement Examination in English Language and Literature. It focuses on literary criticism; students study fiction, drama, poetry, and the essay by reading appropriate works.

Journalism (two semesters)

This course, an elective for juniors and seniors, offers intensive experience in writing for newspapers, magazines, yearbooks, and other appropriate publications. Offering student hands-on experience in Brother Rice High School publications, this course will teach the following skills: elements of a news story and the inverted pyramid; verbal interviewing skills culminating in writing a short article based on the interview; in-depth reporting of a sports story, an editorial, and a feature story; basic rules of journalistic grammar, usage, mechanics, and spelling as per The Associated Press, United Press International Stylebook; and layout emphasizing computer-assisted layout design. This course is ideal preparation for anyone considering a career related to journalistic writing.

Beginning Speech (one semester)

This speech class is offered as an elective to sophomores. In this course students will learn the fundamentals of speech making: to recognize and select effective and appropriate speech techniques and to employ bodily movement, eye contact and voice projection well. The course will teach students to plan and deliver several of the most basic types of speeches: demonstration, information, argumentation, and sales. It will include the rules of debate and group discussion skills.

Advanced Speech (one semester)

This course, which is offered to juniors and seniors as an elective sixth subject, teaches the following: effective public speaking, marketable communication skills, theory and practice of speaking, group discussion skills, research skills, job-interviewing skills, debate, and parliamentary procedure. The course works in conjunction with Drama, presenting, utilizing, and fostering many complimentary skills.

Reading Program (two semesters)

The objective of the reading program is to enhance the reading and basic study skills necessary for advancement not only in reading but also in all areas of study. The student will be guided toward a better understanding of reading methods and how they pertain to his own achievement and advancement in education.

The program will concentrate on the following skills: word recognition, comprehension (literal/inferential), interpretation, critical reading, rate building, listening skill building, and outlining, writing summaries.

The program’s emphasis is on remediation. Those students who lack the basic skills in reading and vocabulary are encouraged to be in the program. It is hoped that the program will bring the student to his full potential in those areas so essential to success in high school.

Foreign Languages

Some colleges and universities strongly recommend three to four years of foreign language study. Other universities may waive their language requirement for students who have successfully studied one foreign language for four years.

* Second year language courses are open to incoming freshmen if proficiency in the first year skills has been established.

** Students who are enrolled in honors French IV, German IV, or Spanish IV and who meet the university requirements, may enroll in the St. Mary’s University of Minnesota college credit program called PACC (Program for Advanced College Credit). Upon successful completion of their language IV honors class, these students will receive a transcript from St. Mary’s University with six hours of college credit transferable to nearly every public and private college and university in the United States.

Spanish I (leveling by entrance examination)

This course introduces students to Spanish by first developing active listening skills through exposure to oral and written language they can understand. Supported by a solid foundation in the basics of Spanish grammar, students will use the Natural Approach to language acquisition and proficiency to respond to and produce meaningful speech about them. Students are encouraged to build an appreciation for Hispanic cultures and civilizations through their introduction to a cast of textbook characters from around the Spanish-speaking world, including the United States. Spanish tapes and videos are an integral part of this course.

Spanish II (leveling by Spanish I teacher)

Bridging enables this course to make a smooth transition from Spanish I by expanding the student’s knowledge of vocabulary, grammar, verb tenses and pronunciation all within activities that are communicative in nature. The skills of listening, conversation, reading comprehension and composition are increasingly stressed. Culture continues to be an integral part of each unit.

Spanish III (leveling bySpanish II teacher with a minimum of C+ in Spanish II)

This course emphasizes oral communication, linguistic skills, and culture. Students are encouraged to create with the language as they simultaneously study Hispanic peoples, art, poetry, prose, history, and geography. Command of spoken and written Spanish is further developed through intensive vocabulary acquisition and through strengthening and reinforcing the mastery of the language skills acquired in levels one and two. The class is conducted mainly in Spanish.

Spanish IV (leveling by Spanish III teacher with a minimum of C+ in Spanish III)

This course emphasizes further mastery of the communication skills introduced and developed in levels one, two and three. This advanced study of Spanish continues to encourage a variety of activities including cultural concepts, geography, history, famous Spanish speaking people, literature and art. Student study focuses on communicative skills, global understanding and content-based instruction. The class is mainly conducted in the target language.

Spanish V AP (leveling by Spanish IV teacher)

This course is an advanced study class for seniors who tested into the second year of Spanish during their freshmen year. Spanish V is designed for the intensive study of grammar, composition, reading, writing, speaking and listening skills. Students will be expected to take the Advanced Placement Language Exam at the end of this course.

French I (leveling by entrance examination)

This course deals with a five-step approach to proficiency: comprehension of authentic language; awareness of structure; guided practice for building accuracy; cooperative learning; opportunity for self expression. The course introduces the students to basic French grammar. Listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills are equally emphasized. French videos and tapes are an integral part of this course. Students are also given basic knowledge of the geography of France and the city of Paris. Cultural differences between France and the United States are discussed. Emphasis is put on communication of simple ideas, statements, needs and questions.

French II (leveling by French I teacher)

This course emphasizes communication and stresses interpersonal relationships in meaningful cultural contexts. There is an emphasis on daily life themes, a side variety of readings, encouragement of cooperative learning and self-expression. In French II students expand their vocabulary, grammatical, and comprehension skills. More in depth tape activities are utilized. Intermediate listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills are reinforced and tested. The curriculum also includes short stories for comprehension, as well as passages of historical content. Cultural material covers the French Provinces, other French speaking countries and French traditions and norms.

French III (leveling by French II teacher with a minimum of C+ in French II)

This course allows students to express themselves increasingly more precisely and consequently in more detailed language. French III emphasizes the progression of reading, writing, listening and speaking skills. Verb tenses are reviewed and reinforced and vocabulary is expanded. A separate reader includes literary and historical selections. Advanced composition writing is introduced. Culture includes feature length films in French covering historical aspects of France. The class is conducted mainly in French.

French IV (leveling by French III teacher with a minimum of C+ in French III)

This course deals with a continuing emphasis on student mastery of the French language. Advanced grammar concepts are introduced. Emphasis is put upon mastering communication and writing skills. More in depth historical perspectives of France are covered. This class also includes classic literary selections smaller classes enable the students to use their French creatively. Feature length films are viewed and discussed. Videotapes, French commercials, and dialogues are all part of the course material. Class is conducted in French.

French V AP (leveling by French IV teacher)

French V is an advanced study class for seniors who tested into the second year of French during their freshman year. This group of students meets with the teacher for class three times a week. One of the objectives of this course is to prepare the student for the Advanced Placement Language Exam. The course is designed for the intensive study of grammar, composition, reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills.

German I (leveling by entrance examination or the Foreign Language Department)

This course introduces the student to the fundamentals of the German language and to the culture of German speaking countries. The four language skills - reading, writing, listening and speaking are equally emphasized. Students are guided to proficiency through a variety of activities designed to increase comprehension of authentic language, to increase awareness of sentence structure, to provide guided practice and to provide opportunities for self-expression. Emphasis is put on communication of simple ideas, statements, needs and questions. German tapes and videos are an integral part of this course.

German II (leveling by German I teacher)

This course emphasizes communication and stresses interpersonal relationships in meaningful cultural contexts. Through spiraling of functions, vocabulary and grammar, students are presented with opportunities to increase retention of newly acquired language and to use the language in various situations. A variety of activities and strategies meets individual student needs to achieve proficiency in German. Cultural material focuses on major German cities and states. German tapes and videos are an integral part of this course.

German III (leveling by German II teacher with a minimum of C+ in German II)

German III emphasizes the progression of reading, writing, listening and speaking skills. Command of spoken and written German is further developed through intensive vocabulary acquisition and through strengthening and reinforcing the mastery of the language skills acquired in levels one and two. A separate reader includes literary and historical selections. Advanced composition writing is introduced. The class is conducted mainly in German.

German IV (leveling by German III teacher with a minimum of C+ in German III)

The advanced study of German IV focuses on German mythology, history and modern culture as well as on vocabulary development, writing skills, and fluency in communication skills. Advanced grammar concepts are introduced. Feature-length films are viewed and discussed. The class is conducted mainly in German.

Mathematics

Pre-Algebra

Pre-Algebra is a course designed to prepare students’ mathematical abilities for Algebra I. It concentrates on basic math operations, notations and concepts. Students are then introduced to basic algebraic concepts.

Algebra I; Algebra I Honors (ability leveling by entrance examination)

Algebra I introduces the student to the basic structure of algebra, the real number system. A large number of problems and exercises are used to help the student to acquire skill in applying the techniques that result from this structure. A focus is placed on solving problems numerically, algebraically, and graphically.

Advanced Algebra Honors (leveling by Placement Test)

Advanced Algebra is offered only to freshmen whose entrance score indicates exceptional ability and background in mathematics. The course is used to begin the Advanced Placement Track. Students complete Algebra I in approximately one semester, and spend one semester doing Advanced Algebra. Real world applications and data analysis are stressed using available technologies.

Geometry; Geometry Honors (ability leveling by Algebra I teacher and/or Placement Test)

Geometry illustrates the use of intuition on spatial visualization in two and three dimensions followed by a formulation of conclusions (theorems) in careful language. These conclusions are then proven with logical reasoning within an axiomatic system. This process allows the use of algebra and arithmetic while introducing the concepts involved in logical proof.

Advanced Geometry/Trig. (leveling by Advanced Algebra teacher or Placement Test)

In addition to the topics of Geometry honors, students receive a full treatment of the concepts, formula and graphs of trigonometry. This course leads to AP Calculus as seniors.

Pre-Calculus Honors (completion of advanced Geometry or Placement Test)

Pre-Calculus is designed for juniors who have successfully completed Advanced Algebra Honors and Advanced Geometry. It reviews and completes the Algebra topics necessary for Calculus and proceeds to Analytic Geometry, Trigonometric and Exponential Functions, and Limits. Successful completion of this course qualifies a student for AP Calculus in senior year.

Algebra II/Trig.; Algebra II/Trig. Honors (leveling by Geometry teacher or Placement Test)

Designed for juniors who wish to take a major in math, business or science fields in college. The course completes the topics of algebra I and extends them to a complete treatment of functions. Students learn date analysis techniques through real-world application problems. An extensive study of trigonometry follows in the second semester from basic definitions through trigonometric equations and their graphs. ACT review is also dealt with in the second semester.

Algebra II (approval by the Geometry teacher)

This course begins with a thorough review of Algebra I topics. A study of functions and their applications is pursued with and emphasis on solving problems numerically, algebraically, and graphically. Emphasis is placed on a large amount of practice to aid in mastery.

AP Calculus (fee) (approval Math Department)

The syllabus is that for the College Board Advanced Placement Test. Students taking Calculus will be required to take either the AB or BC form of this test.

Analytic Geometry and Calculus (Leveling by Junior Honors Teacher)

This is an honors course that covers a review of the Algebra II and Pre-Calculus topics needed in Calculus. After this review, standard Calculus I topics are covered.

Pre-Calculus (approval by Math Department)

Seniors who have successfully completed Algebra/Trig. will use analysis of functions as a unifying theme. The concepts of limit, continuity, vector and derivative are introduced and related to Algebra, analytic Geometry and Trigonometry with a view toward enabling the student to begin, without further preparation, a first course in Calculus on the college level.

Algebra III - Trigonometry (leveling by junior Algebra II teacher)

Students compete the algebra topics necessary for the study of analytic geometry including quadratic functions and second-degree curves. An extensive study of trigonometry is competed. Students begin with the basic definitions and develop through trigonometric functions and their graphs. Students learn to solve trigonometric equations and their applications.

Advanced Programming

This two semester course is offered to juniors and seniors who have taken the sophomore elective Elementary Programming. It is required that students have also completed Geometry with a grade of B or better, and are taking a math and a science course. Freshmen taking advanced courses may be allowed to take this course in their sophomore year.

One semester will be spent learning the Pascal programming language. This will include structured programming, procedures, loops, arrays, disk files, and advanced algorithms in specific applications. There will also be a team project to conclude this course.

The second semester will be an introduction to the C++ programming language. Emphasis will continue on structured programming, functions, and problem solving. A brief history of computing and relevant computer topics will round out the year.

The student’s grade will be based on the programs he writes, quizzes, tests, and other written assignments.

Advanced Placement: C++

This is a two-semester course. The student is expected to take the AP exam given in May by the College Board. The primary objective of AP Computer Science is to teach students how to write logically structured, well-documented computer programs. The syllabus can be found on the College Board Internet web site. The student’s grade will be determined by the programs he writes and by quizzes and tests given during the course.

Elementary Programming: Sophomore Elective

This one-semester course is meant for students who want to learn more about computers and programming. Visual Basic is the language that will be taught.

Physical Education

Physical education is a requirement for all freshmen and sophomores. Those who have been excused from PE because of a doctor’s note are required (unless the Assistant Principal for Academics schedules another activity) to be present at the class and receive PE instruction.

A freshman takes swimming for one full quarter. This quarter of swim includes the American Red Cross skills dealing with breathing techniques, floating, gliding, survival techniques, treading water and a variety of swimming strokes. During the second quarter the freshmen will be in the gym for conditioning, physical fitness testing, obstacle course and one unit of track, softball, indoor soccer, volleyball, basketball, circuit weight training and cardiovascular testing.

A sophomore student will be instructed with the same swimming skills as a freshman but at an intermediate level and following up to level 8 and using all American Red Cross skills, drills and testing. Additionally, the sophomore will do more “lap” swimming, swimming turns, and disrobing in the water skills and basic rescue and water safety skills. A sophomore’s second quarter in the gym will include the same program as the freshman but at an intermediate level.

During a freshman’s second semester he will take Microsoft Office and a sophomore will have a choice of five different electives: Consumer Education, Basic Computer Programming, Speech, Exploring Art and Geography.

Science

Biology - Laboratory Science (Focus, Academic, Honors and Advanced Placement) (approval and leveling by the department)

This course deals with the following topics in a lecture-laboratory format: the structure and functions of plant and animal cells and the process of cell division; compounds and elements basic to life; genetics, the digestive and respiratory systems; organic compounds. This course is designed for sophomores and honors sophomores.

Anatomy and Physiology – Laboratory Science (Honors, Academic)

This course emphasizes the following topics in a lecture laboratory format: human physiology, human anatomy, human genetics, systems, chemistry and biochemistry. This course is designed for juniors and seniors.

Chemistry - Laboratory Science (Basic, Academic, Honors and Advanced Placement)
(approval and leveling by the department)

This course provides the student with a broad introduction into the nature of chemistry. It surveys the major fields of physical, analytical, organic and inorganic chemistry. By classroom study and laboratory exercises the theories of chemistry are explained and demonstrated. This course is designed for juniors and honors sophomores.

Earth Science - Laboratory Science (Academic) (approval by the department)

Earth Science consists of the study of the Earth, the Atmosphere, the oceans, and space. The course stresses the importance of energy conservation, water and air pollution, and how humans can best apply technological gains to better the environment. This course is designed for juniors and seniors.

Physics - Laboratory Science (Academic and Honors) (approval and leveling by the department)

This course studies the following topics in a lecture laboratory format: mechanics, heat, sound, light, electricity, magnetism and nuclear energy. A strong emphasis is placed on the use of mathematics in problem solving along with the graphical analysis of data, and applications to the physical world. This course is designed for juniors and seniors.

Social Studies

World History (ability leveling by entrance examination)

This course is divided into units within a basically chronological framework. Each unit focuses on a broad theme in world history, and the sections within each unit directly contribute to the development of that theme. Beginning from the four centers of ancient civilization, the study of history progresses to contemporary times.

Geography

This course has certain themes or divisions. The five themes of geography are: 1) location - absolute or relative; 2) place - the unique physical or human characteristics of a place; 3) human -environment interaction - how people use and change their environment; 4) movement of people, goods, and ideas; and 5) regions - how the world can be divided according to places with shared characteristics. Also included are the many tools with which to collect, analyze and display information. Today advances in technology have made new and more sophisticated tools available to geographers. These tools include pictures taken from places or satellites, remote sensing, and census data.

U.S. History (ability leveling by either the student’s Social Studies or English II teacher)

U.S. History is also a course divided into units within chronological framework which encompasses colonial times up to present times of the United States. Also included in this course is coverage of the requirements prescribed in the school code, which are necessary for graduation; this includes material treated in the American Declaration of Independence, the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the State of Illinois.

Advanced Placement U.S. History (fee)

In addition to the requirements of the general syllabus in the US History and of the Honors Addenda to that syllabus, Advanced Placement students must meet the current requirements for the May examination in U.S. History published by CEEB. Moreover, each Advanced Placement student will be expected to exercise his AP option upon completion of the course.

Advanced Placement European History (fee)

In this course European History is seen in a broad perspective, reflecting an awareness of other disciplines and a diversity of techniques of presentation. Intellectual-cultural, political-diplomatic, and social economic history questions form the basis for the course. Students are expected to demonstrate knowledge of basic chronology and of major events and trends from approximately 1450 to the present, that is, from the High Renaissance to the very recent past. In addition to providing a basic narrative of events and movements, the goals of the AP Program in European History are to develop a) an understanding of some of the principal themes in modern European History, b) an ability to analyze historical evidence and c) an ability to analyze and to express historical understanding in writing.

Senior Social Studies Electives - Semester Courses Only (no approval required; honors level available with “A” in U.S. History and departmental approval)

1. WWW/Present: The rise of Fascist dictatorships broke the peace in Europe. The greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere was on the march in the Pacific, while the United States followed its isolation and neutrality policies. Yet, within a decade, from 1935 to 1945, the U.S. would go from isolation to world leadership, and then to a struggle to maintain the freedom of the western world. This course is designed to cover U.S. History during our participation in the War, through the post-war period, the happy days of Eisenhower, the shining armor of Camelot, the scandals of Nixon, Carter’s humanitarianism, Reagan’s new economics, and Clinton’s new world order. This course is an in-depth approach to current U.S. History covering our past at home and our relations with the rest of the world. Chronology: the mid-thirties to the present.
2. Sociology is designed to acquaint the student with the science of Sociology. The course will attempt to analyze why individuals act as they do within various groups and societies and whether or not such action is considered normal or problem behavior by others. Special emphasis is given to the structure of society and the function of institutions.
3. Government in America is designed with a two fold purpose in mind: 1) to acquaint the student with the structure and function of the governments of the United States - Federal, State, County and Local - and 2) to analyze man’s political behavior for solving the basic human problems of a society.
4. Criminal Law covers individual rights and liberties that are provided in and protected by the Constitution. The juvenile court system is also examined. A trip to the Criminal Courts Building is included, and classroom discussion with attorneys and police officials is an integral part of this class offering.
5. Civil Law is a course designed to provide the student with a practical understanding of law and the legal system that will be applicable to his everyday life. Emphasis is placed on the fundamental principles and values underlying our Constitution, laws, and our legal system. Current issues and controversies relating to law and the legal system are stressed.
6. Psychology: An overview of the historical development of the field of psychology, as a multi-disciplinary academic approach, “crossing” and “drawing” from the various areas of natural science and social science. This historical background is traced from the myths of demonology, witchcraft and pseudo-religious views of the earliest times through the more humane approaches to the current trends of the biological.
7. The History of Vietnam: U.S. Involvement - This is a course that will analyze the political, social, and economic factors which contributed to the United States's involvement in Vietnam. The thrust of the course will be an “in-country” looks at the American GI and how those contributing factors affected him. The chronological approach will concentrate on main issues including the fall of Dien Bien Phu, the assassination of Diem, the first U.S. combat troops, A GI’s life in Vietnam, protest movement, the Paris Peace Accord, the fall of Saigon and finally, “the wall.” Through the use of videos, guest speakers and lecture the student will begin to develop an understanding of America’s longest and most controversial war.

Theology

Theology I

Life Skills Management (Semester I)

This course attempts to develop, within the student the skills necessary to deal with the pressures and temptations of alcohol, tobacco and drugs. The students will learn to analyze the social forces that pressure students to conform. Students will learn to think rationally and to develop a reasoned opinion. Anger management and diversity issues with an emphasis on tolerance and respect for individual differences are also included.

Old Testament (Hebrew Scriptures) (Semester II)

The student will study many of the people, places and events of the Old Testament. They will focus on how the Old Testament can be understood in light of our current world, how it tells us something of our Christian heritage and identity and how it contains the mysteries of God for the Jewish people.

Theology II

Sacraments (Semester I)

This course is an analysis of Christian worship and the way God communicates his grace through the sacraments and the Church. An awareness of the connection between our lived experiences and the sacraments will be developed. Students will see the development of the sacraments throughout the history of the Church.

The New Testament (Life of Christ) (Semester II)

The aim of this course is to acquaint the student with the “message of Salvation” which Jesus delivered through His public ministry and how we can apply this message to our lives. An analysis of the culture as a necessary background to understanding scriptures will be reviewed as well as the symbolism so prevalent in the Gospel writings.

The Sophomore Retreat is mandatory for all sophomore students.

Theology III

Morality (Semester I)

This is the continuation of the Life Skills Management course, though on a deeper level. Students will analyze through a series of classic films the forces, which shape the development of their character and conscience. Emphasis is given to the role of morals and values, principles and faith in guiding and keeping them on the straight and narrow path.

Social Justice (Semester II)

A study of the causes of and remedies for social evils. Issues of poverty, prejudice and discrimination, war and peace, Third World development, medical ethics will be reviewed in light of Church encyclicals.

Theology IV

Christian Marriage (Semester I)

Marriage will be looked, as a calling from God and students will develop criteria for determining their callings in life. The reasons people get married; both conscious and subconscious will be analyzed. The difference between love and infatuation will be explored, as students search for their ability to find true love, as opposed to a fantasy. Habits of communication will be explored, as well as the masculine/feminine nature, sexuality and birth control.

World Religions and Cultures (Semester I)

Students will study the faith and traditions of various people around the world, from primitive religions through the world’s major religions of Islam, Judaism, Christianity, Hinduism, Taoism, and Buddhism. The morals, myths, rituals, symbols, and forms of worship will be analyzed as well as the impact of these on their cultural milieu. The religious roots of various conflicts around the world will be analyzed as well.

Faith (Semester II)

This course attempts to examine the phenomenon of faith as a universal human need, tying together the concepts introduced in freshmen year. It attempts to study Jesus as an answer to that need, concluding the process begun in sophomore year. Finally, it seeks to probe the function of the Catholic Church as a community of believers centered on the person of Jesus.

Peer Ministry

Brother Rice Campus Ministry, in response to the need for outreach programs and the pastoral care of its students, collaborates with the Theology Department to develop programs and activities sensitive to student’s personal, pastoral needs. Programs such as retreats, liturgies and paraliturgies, peer guidance and support, and Christian service opportunities rely on trained student ministers who participate in our shared mission to a) proclaim the Gospel message, b) promote strong Christian community, and c) develop and implement outreach programs that serve the Brother Rice community as well as the community at large. Participation in the KAIROS Retreat is a requirement.

* No leveling or approval necessary for any Theology Course (except Peer Ministry).

Freshmen and Sophomore Service Hours

Freshmen and sophomores are required to perform 5 hours of service to their community during the second semester. It is preferred that freshmen perform their service to the elderly and that the sophomores perform their service to their parish or grammar school.

Junior and Senior Service Hours

Juniors and seniors must complete twenty (20) hours of Christian Service within the school year, ten (10) of which must be completed by the end of the first semester. In order to allow a student more flexibility in choosing his project, any or all of the student’s Christian Service may be done during the summer with permission of the head of the department. With permission of their religion teachers, students will have the option of deciding the numbers and types of projects they wish to participate in order to fulfill their commitments. The Theology Department strongly recommends that students choose more than one project. This will enable them to interact with a larger segment of the community.

* A course dealing with diversity and multi-cultural awareness is covered by all teachers on all levels at some point during the year. This course was developed by the Kaleidoscope Group working closely with the Brother Rice Diversity committee to address the unique nature of our richly diverse community.

Revised June 2003