Curriculum
English I
This is the standard year-long English course for freshmen,
focusing on the integration of writing, reading, speaking and
listening skills. Students will learn to read for both appreciation
and meaning while striving to become critical and creative thinkers
and speakers. It emphasizes literature, research, and composition.
Students will (1) examine the types of literature, including the
short story, non-fiction, poetry, novel and drama: (2) complete
research projects, utilizing technology and various resources; (3)
practice oral skills through presentations; and (4) write developed
compositions, including narrative, persuasive, expository, and
creative writing formats. In addition, specific grammar and
punctuation rules will be addressed through skill development and
writing.
Objectives as Aligned with Illinois Standards (IS)
- Read age-appropriate material with fluency and accuracy. (IS#
1.B.4c)
-Identify genres (forms and purposes) of fiction, nonfiction,
poetry and electronic literary forms. (IS# 1.B.1b)
-Write paragraphs that include a variety of sentence types;
appropriate use of the eight parts of speech; and accurate
spelling, capitalization and punctuation. (IS# 3.A.2)
-Write compositions that contain complete sentences and effective
paragraphs using English conven tions. (IS# 3.A.3)
-Ask questions and respond to questions from the teacher and from
group members to improve comprehension. (IS# 4.A.1b) -Organize and
integrate information from a variety of sources (e.g., books,
interviews, library reference materials, web-sites, CD/ROMS). (IS#
5.A.2b)
English II
This is a standard full-year course designed for sophomore
English student. It employs a thematic approach to literature
including contemporary and traditional novels. Students will write
persuasive, narrative, and expository compositions. A research
paper will be taught during the second semester.
Objectives as Aligned with Illinois Standards (IS)
-Students will read with understanding and fluency by continuously
checking and clarifying for understanding. (IS# 1.B.3c)
-Students will compare, contrast and evaluate ideas and information
from various sources and genres. (IS# 1.C.3c)
-Students will Identify and analyze a variety of literary
techniques within classical and contemporary works representing a
variety of genres. (IS# 2.A.3a)
- Students will write compositions that contain complete sentences
and effective paragraphs using English conven tions. (IS#
3.A.3)
- Students will compose narrative, informative, and persuasive
writings for a specified audience. (IS# 3.C.3a)
-Students will deliver planned oral presentations, using language
and vocabulary appropriate to the purpose, message and audience;
provide
details and supporting information that clarify main ideas; and use
visual aids and contemporary technology as support. (IS#
4.B.3a)
-Students will apply listening skills as individuals and members of
a group in a variety of settings (e.g., lectures, discussions,
conversa tions,
team projects, presentations, interviews). (IS# 4.A.4a)
- Students will organize and integrate information from a variety
of sources (e.g., books, interviews, library reference materials,
web- sites, CD/ROMs). (IS# 5.A.2b)
English III
This is a required junior-level course in the Regular sequence.
This course builds on the work of the freshmen and sophomore years.
Students (1) pursue further critical thinking skills and a
response-and judgment approach to the reading of significant
literature of the last half century, (2) critically and
responsively approach poetry, (3) will do extensive work with
verbs, spelling, modifier use, and sentence clarity; and (4) write
papers in response to readings and various type of personal
business correspondence.
Objectives as Aligned with Illinois Standards (IS)
- Identify reasons why American Literature is important. (IS#
2A.3b,2A.5d,2.B.4b)
-Strengthen written skills by writing a variety of papers. (IS#
3.A.5,3.B.3a,3.C.5a,3.C.4b)
-Reinforce reading skills by reading a variety of selections. (IS#
1B.5a,1.B.4c,1.B.3c,1.C.4a,1.C.5d)
-Practice higher level thinking skills by reading a variety of
selections. (IS# 2.A.5c)
-Learn the process of researching information and then compiling it
into a paper. (IS# 5.A.4a, 5.B.5a, 5.B.4b, 5.C.5b)
-Present orally to classmates for a variety of purposes. (IS#
4.B.5b,4B.5b,5.A.4b)
English IV
This course prepares students for life in and beyond the
classroom. Through the integration of reading, writing, listening,
and speaking skills, students will become better communicators and
critical thinkers. Individual attention will be provided to help
students further develop their composition and oral skills.
Objectives as Aligned with Illinois Standards (IS)
-Students will review reading materials, make predictions and
relate reading to information from other sources. (IS# 1.B.3a)
-Students will continuously check and clarify for understanding
(e.g., in addition to previous skills , draw comparisons to other
readings). (IS# 1.B.3c)
-Students will read age-appropriate material with fluency and
accuracy. (IS# 1.B.5d)
-Students will use questions and predictions to guide reading. (IS#
1.C.4a)
-Students will describe how the development of theme, character,
plot and setting contribute to the overall impact of a piece of
literature. (IS# 2.A.3b)
-Students will produce documents that convey a clear understanding
and interpretation of ideas and information and display focus,
organization, elaboration and coherence. (IS# 3.B.3a)
-Students will edit and revise for word choice organization,
consistent point of view and transitions among paragraphs using
contem porary technology and formats suitable for submission and/or
publication. (IS# 3.B.3b)
-Students will write for real or potentially real situations in
academic, professional and civic contexts (e.g., college
applications, job applications, business letters, and petitions).
(IS# 3.C.5b)
-Students will use criteria to evaluate a variety of speakers'
verbal and nonverbal messages. (IS# 4.A.5a)
-Students will develop a research plan using multiple forms of
data. (IS# 5.A.5a)
Contemporary Literature
This is a one-semester elective. It provides students with
critical thinking experiences in reading, writing, and discussions
in the following units: alienation and isolation, traditional and
non-traditional values, justice and injustice, ethnic cultures, and
the future.
Multi-Cultural Literature
This is a one-semester elective course, which concentrates on the
works of and problems surrounding various ethnic groups (Hispanic,
African-American, Japanese, Irish, etc.) as they immigrated to the
United States. A study of novels, poetry, and short stories will be
the focus for this course's approach to multi-cultural
literature.
Computer Technology
Students develop basic skills in computer literacy including
components of the computer, Internet skills, and computer ethics.
Emphasis is placed on finger positioning and accuracy development.
Students will format documents using a word processing program and
learn to organize and analyze data using a database and spreadsheet
program. Time will be made available for students to prepare
assignments that require the use of these software
applications.
Computer Applications
Students will design solutions to solve problems and use
computer applications to implement the solutions. The use of
spreadsheets, word processing, database management, graphics, and
desktop publishing are integral parts of the course content.
Consumer Education
Consumer Education covers the basic concepts of the economy as
they apply to practical daily living. Students will study
installment purchasing, budgeting, and comparison of prices. Other
topics include the consumer in the marketplace, credit, buying of
goods and services (housing, food, transportation, clothing,
health, recreation, home furnishings, and appliances), insurance,
savings and investments, taxes, the consumer in the economy, and
labor and trade unions.
Objectives as Aligned with Illinois Standards (IS)
-Explain the relationship between productivity and wages. (IS#
15.A.3b)
-Explain and understand the process of paying and filing income tax
forms. (IS# 15.E.3a)
-Describe how income reflects the choices made about education and
careers (Reality World). (IS# 15.A.2b)
-Describe the different forms available to a consumer in regard to
money/currency (e.g., credit, cash). (IS# 15.B.4a)
Human Development 1 and 2
This program focuses on human development prior to conception
through preschool age children. They include the following topic
areas: family relations and parenting; pregnancy and birth;
childcare and development; children with special needs; and careers
in childcare and family services.
Pre Algebra
Students explore and develop skills in recognizing patterns,
using formulas, estimating, measuring, analyzing data, identifying
geometric shapes and their properties, and computing with signed
numbers. Additionally, students are introduced to the language and
techniques of algebra.
Objectives as Aligned with Illinois Standards (IS)
-Explain operations and number properties including commutative,
associative, distributive, transitive, zero, equality and order of
operations. (IS# 8.C.2)
-Apply the properties of numbers and operations including inverses
in algebraic settings derived from economics, business and the
sciences. (IS# 8.C.3)
-Solve linear equations involving whole numbers. (IS# 8.D.2)
Algebra Enhanced or Algebra PV
This course covers the same topics outlines for Algebra but
addresses the visual and kinesthetic learning styles. Applications
to careers and real life are emphasized. Manipulatives and
mathematical models are used to help students "see" algebraic
concepts.
Algebra
Algebra is a course designed for the math student to think in
both concrete and abstract terms. Students should be proficient in
the use of basic properties and definitions. Students will become
competent in problem solving techniques and will be able to
translate English into the language of mathematics and the reverse.
Students develop skills in using variables, solving equations,
factoring, graphing and using functions. Problem-solving skills
will be emphasized and developed.
Objectives as Aligned with Illinois Standards (IS)
- Students will demonstrate their knowledge and use of numbers and
their representations in a broad range of settings. (IS# 6.A)
-Students will investigate, represent and solve problems using
number facts, operations and their properties, algorithms, and
relationships. (IS# 6.B)
-Students will compute and estimate using mental mathematics,
paper-and-pencil methods, calculators, and computers. (IS# 6.C)
-Students will measure and compare quantities using appropriate
units, instruments and methods. (IS# 7.A)
-Students will describe numerical relationships using variables and
patterns. (IS# 8.A)
-Students will interpret and describe numerical relationships using
tables, graphs, and symbols. (IS# 8.B)
-Students will solve problems using systems of numbers and their
properties. (IS# 8.C)
-Students will use algebraic concepts and procedures to represent
and solve problems. (IS# 8.D)
-Students will organize, describe and make predictions from
existing data. (IS# 10.A.)
Algebra II
This course continues and expands on topics introduced in
Algebra. Students develop in-depth understanding of graphing
techniques and problem-solving skills needed to solve algebraic
problems. Linear, quadratic, polynomial and rational functions are
explored using traditional, as well as modern, technology.
Applications to careers and real-life are emphasized.
Algebra II with Trigonometry
This course continues and expands on topics introduced in
Algebra I. Students develop in-depth understanding of graphing
techniques, systems, and the complex number system. Linear,
quadratic, polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, and
trigonometric functions are explored using traditional as well as
modern technology.
Geometry Enhanced
This course covers the same topics outlined for Geometry but
addresses the visual and kinesthetic learning styles. Applications
to careers and real life are emphasized. Manipulative activities
and mathematical models are used to help students "see" geometric
properties and concepts.
Geometry
This course develops those skills necessary to analyze,
categorize, and draw conclusions about points, lines, angles,
planes, and space. Properties of figures are examined, developed,
and applied to solve a variety of problems. Congruency and
similarity of figures are investigated and applied. Direct and
indirect measurement techniques are used to determine angle
measure, perimeter, area, and volume of figures. Algebraic
techniques are used to symbolically represent and solve geometric
problems in a wide variety of settings. Deductive reasoning skills
are developed through work with formal and informal proofs.
Objectives as Aligned with Illinois Standards (IS)
-Use concepts of symmetry, congru ency, similarity, scale,
perspective, and angles to describe and analyze two- and
three-dimensional shapes found in practical applica tions (e.g.,
geodesic domes, A-frame houses, basketball courts, inclined planes,
art forms, blueprints). (IS# 9.A.3c) -Use geometric figures and
their properties to solve problems in the arts, the physical and
life sciences and the building trades, with and without the use of
technology. (IS# 9.A.5) -Identify, describe, classify and compare
two- and three- dimensional geometric figures and models according
to their properties. (IS# 9.B.3)
Biology
Biology is a one-year course, which deals with the study of
living things and attempts to develop understandings of the basic
biological principles. Emphasis is placed upon the chemical and
physical basis of life, the continuity of life, the fundamental
life processes, evolution of life, and the interdependence of
living things.
Earth Science
This course provides the students with an understanding of the
Earth. The topics of study include astronomy, weather, pollution,
oceanography, maps and globes, rocks and minerals, glaciers,
earthquakes, volcanoes, fossils and geologic time. Problem solving
strategies and the scientific method are stressed.
Chemistry
Students will understand and apply scientific concepts,
principles, and theories pertaining to the physical setting and
living environment and recognize the historical development of
ideas in science. Students will also learn and understand: energy
exists in many forms, and when these forms change, energy is
conserved; energy and matter interact through forces that result in
changes in motion; matter is made up of particles whose properties
determine the observable characteristics of matter and its
reactivity.
World Civilizations
This is a one-year course designed to assist students of
average potential who need specialized and individualized
instruction in reading, writing, speaking, and comprehension skills
to support the understanding of world history from the beginning of
civilization through the late 20th Century. The areas of study are
Africa, Asia, and Europe.
World Civilizations Regular
This is a one-year course designed for average and above average
students. This course is a survey of world history from the
beginning of civilization in Africa, Asia, and Europe through the
20th Century.
Civics
This semester course covers the American system of government,
the American legal system, the criminal justice system, our rights
and responsibilities as citizens, as well as consumer awareness and
protection. Throughout the study of citizenship, government and
law, students will gain a better understanding of their rights and
responsibilities as members of society. In addition, students will
study consumer issues related to contracts, credit, purchasing
goods and services, and career planning.
World Geography
This course is designed as an introductory course for social
science. Physical geography and basic geographical skills are
emphasized, natural resources, farming, manufacturing, and the
historical and cultural development of Africa, Asia, and Europe are
also studied.
U.S. History
This is a one-year course required by law of all high school
graduates. This course is a chronological survey of major
political, economic, social, and cultural events from colonial
times to present in the United States History. The importance of
geography in the development of the nation should be addressed as
well as the role played by important persons. Students also learn
about current issues and problems and their connections to events
from the past. Students will take the U.S. Constitution test. This
test must be passed as a graduation requirement.
Objectives as Aligned with Illinois Standards (IS)
-Describe how groups competed for power within the colonies during
the early national period. (IS# 16.B.3a)
-Explain how and why the colonies fought for their independence and
how their ideas reflect in the constitution. (IS# 16.B.3b)
-Describe how the constitution has changed over time as a result of
amendments. (IS# 16.B.3c)
-Explain the relationships that were developed in the American
economy due to slavery & immigration. (IS# 16.C.3b)
-Describe the development and government policies that affected the
countries economy after 1865. (IS# 16.C.3c)
-Analyze the westward expansion on America economy. (IS#
16.C.4b)
-Describe ways in which America developed as a world/political
power. (IS# 16.B.3d)
-Analyze worldwide consequences of isolated events such as; Civil
War, World Wars 1 & 2, & the Vietnam War/Conflict. (IS#
16.B.5a)
-Make inferences about historical events and eras using historical
maps and other resources. (IS# 16.A.3b)
-Compare competing historical interpretations of an event. (IS#
16.A.4b)
Issues in America
This is a one-semester course designed to study events in Post
World War II America. The course will cover challenges that the
U.S. has faced in its recent past and present. The focus is on
contemporary events that impact our lives.
African-American History
This is a junior-senior elective designed to cover the
African-American experience from its origins in Africa to the
current efforts in the United States toward true equality. The
course offers a historical, cultural, and literary perspective to
the African-American experience in the U.S. and the impact of
African-American culture on U.S. history. Course activities include
classroom discussion, journal writing, projects, and personal
experiences.
Latin-American History
This is a junior-senior elective consisting of a survey of
social, political, and economic trends in Spanish America from the
15th to the 20th Centuries. Differences, as well as similarities,
in the development of Latin American countries will be studied to
provide students with insights into how humans can provide
different solutions to similar problems.
Sociology
This course introduces students to sociological theories and
terminology necessary to explain and analyze social behavior among
humans. Students will learn how to use the scientific method for
studies. The sociology units are designed to utilize a variety of
critical thinking skills. Students learn how to select logical
approaches and reliable experts to solve group problems and social
issues. They learn to recognize ways of influencing group behavior.
Individual units focus on achieving stable family lives and
demonstrating how prejudice affects people. Throughout the course
an emphasis is placed on evaluating the sources or authorities on
which one relies for information, those sources used in class, and
those outside of class.
Psychology
This course is the study of human behavior. It is a general survey
of the field of psychology. Critical thinking is used to evaluate
theories and hypotheses. Topics which are examined include: the
biology of behavior (brain, central nervous system, etc.),
perception, learning (classical and operant conditioning),
language, thought, intelligence, and personality theory. The
primary emphasis is on the exploration of individual human behavior
and experience.
Illinois, Chicago, and Local History
This semester course will broaden students' understanding of the
historical, political, economic, and social history of the
communities that serve Proviso Townships High Schools, as well as
the State of Illinois and the City of Chicago.
Reading and Communications
This course emphasizes a multi-faceted approach to reading, which
also includes emphasis on study skills, organizational skills,
sound-symbol relationships, whose language, and
receptive-expressive language development.
Civic Responsibility
This course concentrates on the responsibilities of adult life.
Students develop an understanding of the need for government and
law, the rights and responsibilities of voting and paying taxes and
their importance to their lives as functioning members in a
democratic society.
Health Education
This course fulfills the health education requirement for
graduation as stipulated in Section 861 of The School Code of
Illinois. Students study human ecology and health, human growth and
development, prevention and control of disease, public and
environmental health, consumer health, safety education and
disaster survival, mental health and illness, personal health
habits, nutrition, and dental health. Other topics include the use
and abuse of alcohol, drugs, tobacco in relations to one's
health.
Driver Education in the Classroom
The Driver Education classroom portion is designed to develop
safe, courteous, and skillful drivers. To enter the driver
education program, students must have completed freshman physical
education and maintained a 90% Attendance Rate during the school
year prior to taking this course. The classroom phase emphasizes
the importance of students developing desirable attitudes toward
the responsibilities associated with the operation of a motor
vehicle.