La Salle Academy

Course Catalogue 2019 – 2020

From the Office of the Assistant Principal for Academic Affairs

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Dear Students,

This Course Catalogue contains a description of the Academic Program, the

Graduation Requirements, and the courses that La Salle Academy will be

offering during the 2019-2020 school year. Review this information carefully

as it describes in detail what requirements must be fulfilled and courses that

can be elected. Note any prerequisites for courses to make sure you qualify.

Review this information with your Guidance Counselor, your teachers,

and your parents. Make your decisions wisely, especially when considering

your future. Colleges may require specific courses for admission to the school

or to a specific program. Make sure you are taking the courses you need to

fulfill those requirements.

Course selection is the first step in the process. Your performance in your

courses will be considered when courses are finalized. As you plan, resolve to

do your best in each of your courses so that you can achieve your goals.

If you have any questions, please feel free to see me at any time.

Sincerely,

Mr. Matthew Stark

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LA SALLE ACADEMY

COURSE OF STUDY

FRESHMEN SOPHOMORES

Religion 1 Religion 2

English 1 English 2

*Algebra 1 Geometry

Biology Chemistry

Global Studies 1 Global Studies 2

Microsoft Office Spanish 1/ French 1/ Italian 1

Physical Education Physical Education

Health IntroArt/IntroMusic OR Marching Band

Writing Workshop/Math Skills Art I

Music I

JUNIORS SENIORS

Religion 3 Christian Philosophy

English 3 World Religions or Social Justice

Algebra 2 World Lit/ AP English

American History/AP American History Trigonometry/ Pre-Calculus/ AP Calculus

Spanish 2/ French 2/ Italian 1 Government & Economics/ or

Earth Science/Physics AP Government

Studio Art/ Computers /Adv. Music/Chorus/Band Physical Education

Physical Education 2 Elective Courses

Graphic Art

ELECTIVES for Seniors:

Business Law Finance

Anatomy/Physiology Earth Science

Physics Chorus/Advanced Music

Advanced Music/Advanced Art/ Studio Art Spanish I, French 1, or Italian 1

Intro to Psychology/Sociology Criminal Law

AP Spanish

*Students may be placed in Geometry based on successful completion of Algebra 1 of at least a

90%, a 90% performance on the Algebra Regents Exam in 8th grade, and a La Salle placement

exam.

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The LaSalle Academy and New York State Regents Diploma

Minimum Requirements

Religious Studies 4 credits

English 4 credits

Social Studies 4 credits

Mathematics 4 credits

Science 3 credits

Foreign Language 2 credits

Health Education ½ credit

Art and/or Music 1 credit

Physical Education 2 credits

Electives 2 credits

To be eligible for a New York State High School Diploma, the following NYS

Regents Examinations must be completed with a grade of 65 or over:

Common Core English

Common Core Math (Algebra I, Geometry, or Algebra II)

Science Regents (must be a lab science)

Global History and Geography

U.S. History and Government

To be eligible for an Advanced New York State Regents Diploma, the

following NYS Regents Examinations and Requirements must be completed

with a grade of 65 or over in addition to the exams listed above:

2 additional Mathematics Regents

1 additional credit of a language

2nd Science Regents

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ENGLISH

The mission of the English Department is to foster an appreciation for a rich standards-

based literary instruction with strategy-based differentiation, analytical thinking and real-

world authenticity. Since ELA is the center-point to all learning, the primary goal is to

produce reflective, critical and creative thinkers of reading, writing, speaking and listening.

Students are exposed to literature that includes short stories, poetry, drama, fiction, and

nonfiction material written by people from different racial, ethnic, and cultural groups

during their four years of high school. The study of the writing process focuses on content,

organization, fluency, word choice, and conventions, so that students may find their own

identity.

ENGLISH 9: 115/9th grade/ 1 credit

This class is intended to expose the student to the many forms of English literature and

language. The student will learn and use new vocabulary in his own writing while

practicing grammatical structure. By the end of the year, the student will combine all the

skills he has learned and be able to compose a 750-1,000 word essay (2 page) essay

involving critical analysis of assigned texts as well as essays based on analysis, argument,

and exposition. The goal is to find connections between literature and the human

experience through the theme of identity.

ENGLISH 9 HONORS: 110/9th grade/ 1 credit

The course is designed for academically motivated students who read and write well above

grade level. This honors course is distinguished by an expectation for a greater degree of

outside reading, self-directed learning, student participation, and overall academic

leadership. This class is intended to expose the student to the many forms of English

literature and language. The course emphasis is student-driven inquiry with traditional

skill-building through the lens of essential questioning. During this year, students will

read, write, understand and interpret the various elements of the short story, novel, and

poetry. Students will learn and later use new vocabulary in their own writing while

practicing grammatical structure. This course is a writing intensive course including but

not limited to essays and an argumentative report. By the end of the year, students will

combine all the skills they have learned and be able to compose a 1000-1,500 word (3

pages) essay involving critical analysis of assigned texts as well as essays based on

analysis, argument, and exposition about literature using the MLA formal academic style

and proper paragraph structure. The goal is to find connections between literature and the

overall theme of Identity.

Placement: based of TACHS scores, eighth grade marks, and a La Salle placement exam.

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ENGLISH 9 Writing Workshop: 802/9th grade/ 1 credit

In this course, students will refine their writing skills through group workshop classes and

production of finished essays. Class will involve learning prose, the use of repetition in

writing, crafting elements of short stories and work transitions. The students will

experience the intense editing process for writing. A final La Salle Academy Literary

Magazine will be produced as a final project and participate in a school-wide Writing

Competition.

ENGLISH 10: 125/10th grade/ 1 credit

This course will develop the skills learned during the freshmen year of study. Students

will read and analytically discuss various types of literature and their philosophy (poetry,

short stories, and novels). Analysis and discussion will be central with an emphasis on

growth and the development of public speaking. The goal of the work will be the

recognition of choice as well as making correct and responsible decisions. Students will use

their skillful organization of ideas to write cohesive and coherent essays based on

persuasion, argument, and exposition. Students will work on quarterly projects to enhance

their understanding of the reading material.

ENGLISH 10 HONORS: 120/10th grade/1 credit

The course will proceed at an accelerated pace as compared with course 125. Self-directed

organic paper topics and group discussion will be central in the pursuit of aligning literary

classical works (poetry, short stories and novels) in life as a whole. It will focus on the

quintessential aspects of self-realization and discovery, responsibility, the active pursuit of

the good and recognition of choice. Students will use their skillful organization of ideas to

write cohesive and coherent essays based on persuasion, argument, and exposition.

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Honors English 9, 90+ overall average and

recommendation of English Teacher

ENGLISH 11 – American Literature: 135/11th grade/ 1 credit

This course continues to build and utilize new and increasingly complex vocabulary words

while preparing exhaustively for the Common Core English Regents Examination. The

course surveys the works of American authors and connects their work with American

History. Selected readings include The Crucible by Arthur Miller, Catcher in the Rye by

J.D. Salinger, Inherit the Wind by Jerome Lawrence and Robert Edwin Lee, and

Shakespeare’s Othello. There is a lengthy unit on poetry and short stories from early

American writers to contemporary authors. Students will use their skillful organization of

ideas to write cohesive and coherent essays based on persuasion, argument, and

exposition. Students take the Common Core English Regents Exam in June.

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ENGLISH 11 HONORS: 130/11th grade/ 1 credit

This course builds on what has been taught in freshmen and sophomore years and helps to

prepare the students to use higher order thinking skills. There is extensive work on the

development of thematic essays and the application of literary terms in essay writing. The

course surveys the works of American authors and connects their work with American

History. Selected readings include The Crucible by Arthur Miller, Catcher in the Rye by

J.D. Salinger, Inherit the Wind by Jerome Lawrence and Robert Edwin Lee, and

Shakespeare’s Othello. There is a lengthy unit on poetry and short stories from early

American writers to contemporary authors. Students will use their skillful organization of

ideas to write cohesive and coherent essays based on persuasion, argument, and

exposition. Students take the Common Core English Regents Exam in January.

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Honors English 10 and recommendation of English

Teacher

ENGLISH 12 – World Literature: 148/149/12th grade/ 1 credit

Using a variety of works in World Literature, students will develop an appreciation for

authors such as Sophocles, Achebe, Shakespeare and others with reference to literary

elements and techniques. Students will be expected to write several essays to improve

their writing skills while practicing the form and formatting. The Senior class will

continue to focus on vocabulary development with weekly quizzes and tests. Students who

maintain a 90% average overall, combined with an approval from their English teacher,

will be exempt from the final exam.

This course is required for all grade 12 students except those who take AP English.

AP ENGLISH LITERATURE: 180/12th grade/ 1 credit AP English Literature and Composition is designed to be a college/university level course, thus the “AP” designation on a transcript rather than “H” (Honors) or “CP” (College Prep). This course will provide you with the intellectual challenges and workload consistent with a typical undergraduate university English literature/ Humanities course. As a culmination of the course, you will take the AP English Literature and Composition Exam given in May (required). A grade of 4 or 5 on this exam is considered equivalent to a 3.3–4.0 for comparable courses at the college or university level. A student who earns a grade of 3 or above on the exam will be granted college credit at most colleges and universities throughout the United States. Course Goals

1. To carefully read and critically analyze imaginative literature.

2. Understand the way writers use language to provide meaning and pleasure.

3. To consider a work’s structure, style, and themes as well as such smaller scale elements as the

use of figurative language, imagery, symbolism, and tone.

4. To study representative works from various genres and periods (from the sixteenth to the

twentieth century) and to know a few works extremely well.

5. To understand a work’s complexity, to absorb richness of meaning, and to analyze how

meaning is embodied in literary form.

6. To consider the social and historical values a work reflects and embodies.

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7. To write, focusing on critical analysis of literature including expository, analytical, and

argumentative essays as well as creative writing to sharpen understanding of writers’

accomplishments and deepen appreciation of literary artistry.

8. To become aware of, through speaking, listening, reading, and, chiefly, writing, the resources of

language: connotation, metaphor, irony, syntax, and tone.

Prerequisites:

• 90% or higher GPA for three years of English

• 90% or higher on English Regents Exam

• 90% or higher on all previous essays

• A recommendation from the previous year’s instructor, testifying a work ethic that

ensures the completion of all reading assignments

• Students may be required to take an on-demand writing sample. This is a 40-

minute writing sample, similar to the prompts found on the AP Literature exam.

FINE ARTS

INTRODUCTION TO ART: 220/10th grade/.50 credit

The multi-media art course introduces the student to the terminology and processes of the art world.

Students explore art in everyday life and participate in structured art exercises in the classroom. The

course enables students to become aware of what is art, where it is and how it can be used to enrich

one’s life experiences. It exposes the students to the art around him and helps the student value art as an

essential part of human development.

ART ONE: 211/10th grade/1 credit

Art 1 is a basic drawing class. It involves drawing from observation. We use pencil, charcoal, watercolor, marker and conte crayon. Students start with line and shape and move into learning all the elements of art while developing compositions. Outdoor outings are also conducted to develop those drawings into paintings.

GRAPHIC ART: 235/11th grade/1 credit

Graphic/Digital Design

This is an introductory class to visual communication. You will learn the concepts and tools to learn the

fundamentals of graphic design, sharpen your digital skills, color theory, typography and composition.

You can develop the essential design skills you need to produce graphics for print anywhere, not just

ordinary images but innovative, compelling images that show your power!

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STUDIO ART: 225/11th grade/1 credit

This class focuses on the practical application of artistic techniques, resulting in large scale work in

charcoal, oil pastel, chalk pastel, markers, colored pencils, and paint. This multi-media course

concentrates on developing the student’s individual talent. Both realistic and abstract art is addressed.

Museum and gallery visits are an integral part of the class. Students planning a career in art or an

art-related field are advised and guided in the preparation of their portfolios. The course culminates in

the annual Art Expo, a display of various student works.

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Introduction to Art and Approval of Art Teacher

ADVANCED ART: 226/12th grade/ 1 credit

This course is a continuation of the Studio Art course with the addition of watercolor and oil painting.

This course incorporates an in-depth exploration of the art techniques covered in Studio Art. Students

are encouraged to develop a personal style and maintain an art portfolio. Museum and gallery visits are

an integral part of the class. The course culminates in the annual Art Expo, a display of various student

works.

Prerequisites: Successful completion of Studio Art and the approval of the Department Chairperson

MUSIC 1: 249/10th grade/1 credit

Music 1 offers students their first glimpse into the academic study of a subject which has the power to

move each of us on both an emotional and physical level. Emphasis is placed on developing a solid

background on western music history from the 19th century to present day offerings. Students learn

about composers, bands and individuals who both influenced and changed the course of music history.

Assignments range from score study to researching their favorite artists to find what makes them tick.

After all, even our musical heroes are mortal - this class seeks to uncover what makes them so special.

INTRODUCTION TO MUSIC: 250/10th grade/.50 credit

The course consists of two components: music theory where students are taught basic ability to read

music and understand the vocabulary that a musician uses. Students gain a perspective on how music

impacts the world by studying the musicians who make it.

CHORUS: 258 /10th, 11th or 12th grade/1 credit

The course develops the vocal abilities of those students interested in singing. It covers: proper vocal

training, ear training, singing harmony, breathing techniques, diction and dynamics (loudness and

softness). The course prepares a repertoire of songs to be sung at various events during the school year.

Students are graded on focus, participation and use of their talent.

Prerequisite: Audition and approval by the Music Teacher

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ADVANCED MUSIC: 265/ 11th or 12th grade/ 1 Credit

This course is designed for the serious musician or any student wishing to further their education in

music. Through the study of theory, students will come to a better understanding of the elements of

music. This course will use a variety of techniques to teach composition, ear training and analysis.

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Introduction to Music and Approval of Music Teacher

MARCHING BAND: 263/10th, 11th or 12th grades/1 credit

This course is designed to give students the opportunity to participate in a corps style marching band. It

is open to sophomores only (with exceptions made on an approval basis) and no prior instrument or

band experience is necessary. Thebandisafun, exciting musical group that rehearses during class

periods in the school day, followed by required after-school sectionals (individual instrumentation)

several afternoons per week. All students who elect to take the Marching Band Class will be asked to

participate in the Summer Band Camp at the French Woods Performing Arts Center, an elite band camp

that LaSalle will provide free of charge. The band’s activities include home basketball games, pep

rallies, parades and community events. There are only 30 slots open for this class. Every student will be

provided an instrument of his own as well as a full band uniform.

COMPUTER SCIENCE

MICROSOFT OFFICE: 767/9th grade/ .5 credit

This course is designed to give students the requisite computer skills to be successful in a college

environment. They are taught the four basic computer applications from the Microsoft Office Suite:

Word, Excel, PowerPoint. They are also taught how to integrate those basic applications so that one can

communicate with the others. Master the world's standard business software with this course. Through

lots of examples, practice, and hands-on projects, students will learn Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook,

and PowerPoint, with special units integrating several of the applications. This course provides valuable,

marketable workplace skills. Required for all Freshmen.

COMPUTER APPLICATIONS: 769/11th grade/ .5 credit

Students will learn the basic language of HTML. It begins with an introduction to web technologies and

then provides a comprehensive overview of HTML, culminating in the creation of websites and

proficient use of other online applications. This course will help students learn essential computer

applications and Internet technology skills for personal, academic, and professional success. Students

will effectively use a current Windows operating system and appropriate file management resources;

develop and refine research skills on computers for speed and accuracy. The learning of particular

software tools and programming languages (coding). The use HTML 5 to create websites. Having

students understand the computational practices of algorithms and their uses. Understanding the limits of

computers, and societal and ethical issues regarding technology.

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FOREIGN LANGUAGE

SPANISH I: 315/10th grade/ 1 credit

This course offers an introduction to the basic elements of Spanish. It is designed to teach the following

basic skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing. Elementary grammar patterns are introduced, as

well as cultural background. Audio-lingual materials will acquaint the student with Spanish. This course

will be guided in a review of all lessons using the Duolingo program for basic Spanish learners.

SPANISH I NATIVE: 310/10th grade/ 1 credit

This is an advanced language course for students who have a degree of understanding in the Spanish

language and want to develop a proficiency in writing, speaking, and oral communications. Through

vocabulary development, grammar lessons, and essay writing, additional communication skills are

acquired. The course also includes contemporary Latino and Latina writers as an introduction to Latino

literature, such writers as Neruda, Octavio Paz and Laura Esqivel. Duolingo is used for advance students

in reviewing grammar and vocabulary.

Prerequisites: Assessment in speaking, reading and comprehension by the Instructor

SPANISH II: 325/11th grade/ 1 credit

This course will build on the skills acquired in Spanish I. Emphasis is placed on grammar constructions

and writing. Elements of culture are introduced through the use of newspapers, slides and films. There is

also an emphasis on vocabulary and, to a degree, writing through dictation and sentence composition.

Duolingo is used as a review in conjunction to grammar, vocabulary and syntax.

SPANISH II NATIVE: 320/11th grade/ 1 credit

This is an advanced course in Spanish for students whose primary language at home is Spanish or for

those who excel in their studies. The most important concentration is the communication arts, e.g.

writing, speaking and reading through vocabulary development, translations and interpretations of

idiomatic expressions and concepts. Literary greats such as Cervantes, Garcia Lorca are studied as a

continuation in understanding Latino/Latina literature from Spain to Latin America. Duolingo will be

incorporated as a review of grammar and vocabulary in the 2017-18 year for the first time.

AP SPANISH (LANGUAGE AND CULTURE): 333/12th grade/ 1 credit

The AP Spanish Language and Culture course takes a holistic approach to language proficiency and

recognizes the complex interrelatedness of comprehension and comprehensibility, vocabulary usage,

language control, communication strategies, and cultural awareness. Students will learn language

structures in context and use them to convey meaning. The course strives to promote both fluency and

accuracy in language use. The course engages students in an exploration of culture in both contemporary

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and historical contexts. e course develops students’ awareness and appreciation of products, both

tangible (e.g., tools, books) and intangible (e.g., laws, conventions, institutions); practices (patterns of

social interactions within a culture); and perspectives (values, attitudes, and assumptions that underlie

both practices and products). In order to best facilitate the study of language and culture, the course is

taught in the target language. All students will take the AP exam in May

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Spanish I and II, approval by Spanish Teacher

FRENCH I: 340/10th and 12th grade/ 1 credit

This course is for students who are beginners to the language and interested in studying

French beyond the high school level. It introduces the student to the basics in grammar, pronunciation,

reading and writing. It is intended to guide the student in an awareness of the language. A workbook and

supplementary materials such as music and simple readers will be used.

FRENCH II: 345/11th grade/ 1 credit

This course is a continuation of French I with a greater emphasis on conversation, writing, and reading.

Grammar, usage, and comprehension will be important elements toward an increased awareness of the

language. In addition, the culture of francophone countries will be expanded and highlighted,

emphasizing the linguistic differences among them.

ITALIAN I: 360/ 10th/11th/12th grade/ 1 credit

This year marks the beginning of study of Italian and Italian culture. The emphasis will be on mastering

the basic elements of the Italian Language: grammar, vocabulary, writing, listening, and speaking

(conversationally and alone.) We will also focus our studies on the historical, geographical, and cultural

awareness of Italy and the Italian culture.

MATHEMATICS

ALGEBRA I: 518/ 9th grade/1 credit

This course covers the material that aligns to the New York State Common Core Standards. The topics

include foundations of algebra; solving equations and inequalities; linear, quadratic and exponential

functions; arithmetic and geometric sequences; systems of equations and inequalities; radical

expressions and functions; and rational expressions and functions. The course is built on a foundation of

problem-solving and visual learning. All students must be in possession of a graphing calculator to

successfully complete the course. All students will take the Common Core Algebra I Regents

examination in June.

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ALGEBRA I HONORS: 511/ 9th grade/1 credit

This course covers the same topics as Course 518 but at a greater depth focusing on more challenging

problems. The required Common Core Algebra Regents Examination will be given in June of the

freshmen year.

Placement: by Department based on TACHS scores, 8th grade marks, and La Salle Placement Exam.

MATH SKILLS: 772/9th grade/.5 credit

The math portion of this course completes the Algebra/Algebra Honors course. The topics covered are

statistics and data analysis which include measures of central tendency and dispersion, frequency

histogram, box and whisker plots, standard deviation, samples and surveys. Additional topics of

factoring and sequences are covered as well.

GEOMETRY: 525/10th grade/ 1 credit

This course covers the material that aligns to the New York State Common Core Standards. The topics

include essential geometric tools and concepts, transformations, rigid motions and congruence,

Euclidean triangle proof, constructions, coordinate geometry including proof based content,

quadrilaterals, dilations and similarity, right triangle trigonometry, geometry of the circle, measurement

and modeling. An optional Geometry Regents Examination will be given in June.

GEOMETRY HONORS: 524/ 10th grade / 1 credit

This course covers the same topics as Course 525 with a greater depth focusing on more challenging

problems especially in Euclidean triangle proofs. Students will take the Geometry Regents Examination

in June.

Prerequisites: Successful completion of Course 511 or course 518 with teacher recommendation AND a

Regents score of 85 or above (discretion of department).

ALGEBRA II: 535/ 11th grade/ 1 credit (Part 1 of a 2-year course)

This course covers algebraic essential review, functions (linear, exponential, logarithmic, quadratic,

transformations, polynomial and rational) radicals and the quadratic formula.

ALGEBRA II/TRIGONOMETRY: 534/11th grade/ 1 credit (1-year course)

This honors course covers topics aligned to the Common Core syllabus which includes the Algebra II

course (535) and Trigonometry course (575) combined in 1 year.

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Prerequisites: Successful completion of Course 524 or 525 and a passing grade on the Geometry

Regents Exam of 75 or above.

TRIGONOMETRY: 575/12th grade/1 credit (Part 2 of a 2-year course)

This course (the 2nd year sequence to Algebra II) covers topics aligned to the Common Core syllabus

which includes trigonometric functions including the unit circle, graphs including the inverse

trigonometric functions, trigonometric identities and trigonometric equations and their applications

using the Law of Sines and Cosines. Additional topics of probability, statistics, complex numbers and

sequences and series are covered.

PRE-CALCULUS: 546/12th grade/1 credit

The topics covered are in-depth analysis of functions and their graphs (polynomial, rational, exponential,

logarithmic, and trigonometric), vectors, de Moivre's Theorem, polar coordinates. Additional topics may

include matrices, determinants, partial fraction decomposition, the conic sections, limits and continuity

and an introduction to Calculus.

Prerequisites: Successful completion of course 534 Algebra II/Trig.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT CALCULUS AB: 580/12th grade/1 credit

This course is equivalent to a first semester college calculus course. The course covers functions with an

emphasis on their domains and composition, limits and continuity, differential calculus, both in its

mechanics and its applications and an introduction to integral calculus including procedures for taking

an integral and some elementary applications. All students are expected to sit for the AP Calculus

examination in May.

Prerequisites: Approval by Math Teacher and the following -

• Successful completion of Algebra II/ Trig course

• Passing the Algebra II/ Trig Regents exam

• Overall average of 88 or higher

• Algebra II/Trig Regents score of 80 or above

• Successful completion of perquisite assignment at end of Junior year and summer packet.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND HEALTH

PHYSICAL EDUCATION: 9th – 12th grades/ .50 credit per year

The emphasis of the program is on team sports, with a unit spent on lifetime activities. Students are

taught basic skills in soccer, football, basketball, volleyball, whiffle-ball, weight and cardio-vascular

training. Physical testing is also conducted. Participation is expected and students are graded on

participation and effort.

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HEALTH: 700/9th grade/ .50 credit

The topics covered in this course are: factors that influence mental and emotional health, the effects of

drugs and other chemicals on physiological body functions, the influence of attitudes on health behavior,

understanding human needs, including sexuality, motivations and the role of personal relationships, the

causes and prevention of major communicable and non-communicable diseases, the importance of

prevention rather than remedial action, the development of knowledge and skills in first aid, the growth

and development of the human body from birth to death, identifying and coping with environmental

change, and awareness of career opportunities in health-related fields. Instruction will prepare the

students to manage stress in their lives by developing a personal fitness plan along with developing and

implementing a personal nutrition program.

RELIGIOUS STUDIES

Freshman Year Religion I

This course studies the life and work of St. John Baptist de La Salle and the origins of the Lasallian

Educational Mission. It will introduce students to the charisms of the Christian Brothers so that they

may develop a Lasallian world view. Students will explore central concepts of Lasallian spirituality that

they apply to their personal faith life and the life of the Lasalle Academy community.

This course also provides a general knowledge of the sacred Scriptures. Students will learn how to read

the Bible and become familiar with its major sections in the books included in each section. Particular

attention will be paid to the gospels as instructions to the mystery of Jesus Christ, the living word of

God, students will understand the Christian ideal that Jesus Christ is the ultimate revelation to us from

God. in learning who He is, and who he calls us to be.

RELIGION I: 015/9th grade/ 1 credit

This course will give the students general knowledge and appreciation of the Sacred Scriptures. They will learn

how to read the Bible and become familiar with its major sections and the books included in each section.

Particular attention will be paid to the Gospels as introductions to the mystery of Jesus Christ, the living Word of

God. Students will understand Christian ideal that Jesus Christ is the ultimate Revelation to us from God and, in

learning who He is, will also learn who He calls us to be.

Sophomore Year Religion II

In the first semester, students explore God’s promise of salvation by exploring in depth the passion,

death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, and the implications of the Paschal Mystery for the Christian life.

This course explores the central place of Jesus as a teacher, role model, friend and Savior for Christians

and the types of writing concerning him in the New Testament.

In the second semester, students examine the origin, structure and mission of the Catholic Church, and

the role the Church plays in the life of today’s modern world. An in-depth analysis of the Lives of the

Apostles and Saints allows Students to relate to the trials tribulations and hope of the Christian message.

This course builds upon the knowledge gained in the freshman year by discussing the churches liturgical

year, the purpose of the sacraments and the example of saints as role models.

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RELIGION II: 025/10th grade/ 1 credit

This course explores the central place of Jesus as teacher, role model, friend and savior for Christians and the

types of writings concerning Him in the New Testament. The gospels are the primary sources. Students will also

learn about the early Christian movement as featured in the Acts of the Apostles, the Letters and historical

findings that continue the story in the post-Jesus era. This course builds upon the knowledge gained in the

freshmen course by discussing the Church’s liturgical year, the purpose of the Sacraments and the example of

saints as role models.

Junior Year Religion III

The first part of the course will be an in-depth study of the sacraments of the church. Each sacrament

will be examined as to how students can encounter Christ in a full and real way, especially in the

Eucharist. The course also explores the history, scriptural foundation, and current practices of the

Sacraments.

The second semester will focus on the study of the moral concepts and precepts that govern the lives of

Christians. Topics that relate to our modern world and every day choices will be discusses and analyzed

from a Catholic perspective. Students will be introduced to real life current and historical events that can

be applied to the moral framework given to us by our faith. Students will be given an opportunity to sort

out their values from a Roman Catholic, Christian and Lasallian perspective.

RELIGION III: 035/11th grade/ 1 credit

The first part of the course will be a an in-depth study of the Sacraments of the Church. Each sacrament will be

examined so as to learn how students can encounter Christ in a full and real way, especially in the Eucharist. The

second part will be a study of the moral concepts and precepts that govern the lives of Christians.

RELIGION IV:

CHRISTIAN PHILOSOPHY: 050/ 12th grade/ 0.5 credit

Christian Philosophy (Senior Elective) Semester 2

This Introductory Christian Philosophy course aims to teach the purpose and methods of philosophy and

how it can be applied to Christian thought. Students will trace the history of Christian thought from its

foundations in ancient Greek philosophy to the development of medieval and modern philosophy.

Students will examine topics of metaphysical investigation including existence, objects and their

properties, space and time, cause and effect, and possibility. Focus will be given to the problem of good

and evil and the existence of God. Students will develop an appreciation to the works of Socrates, Plato,

and Aristotle, Augustine and Aquinas and use them and their philosophy to explain Christianity. Other

more contemporary philosophers will be discussed to help clarify the arguments presented. This is one

of the two religion courses seniors can choose from, to fulfill the 12th grade religion requirement.

SOCIAL JUSTICE: 048/ 12th grade/ 0.5 credit

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Social justice Semester 1 (All Seniors)

This course introduces students to the churches social teaching. Students will learn about Christ’s

concern for others especially the poor and needy and how He is present today in the church’s social

teachings and mission. Students will encounter the major themes of Catholic social teaching and what

they express about God's plan for all people. This course will explain the evangelistic role of the

Catholic Church in the world with the Social Encyclicals of the 19th and 20th centuries being the focus.

The content covered will work to move students to a life of service and work for the Kingdom of God.

WORLD RELIGIONS: 049/12th grade/0.5 credit

World religions (Senior Elective) Semester 2

This course will study the beliefs and practices of major non-Catholic and non-Christian religions in the

world. It will help students recognize the ways in which important spiritual truths can be found in these

churches and how the Catholic Church relates to them. The content highlights recent events in the

history of these traditions and helps students understand the people, dimensions, and religious principles

of the world's major religions. This is one of the two religion courses seniors can choose from, to

fulfill the 12th grade religion requirement.

SCIENCE

REGENTS BIOLOGY: 620/ 9th grade / 1 credit

This course focuses on the unity and diversity among living things. Topics include

life processes, cell structure, plant and animal comparisons, reproduction, genetics, evolution, ecology

and human physiology. Students are required to complete a minimum of 1200 minutes of laboratory

time. Students take the New York State Living Environment Exam in June. Required of all Freshmen.

REGENTS CHEMISTRY: 630/ 10th grade/ 1 credit

This course presents the basic structure of matter and the changes it can undergo. Topics include:

phases, types of matter, atomic structure, the Periodic Table, bonding, kinetics and equilibrium, acids

and bases, oxidation-reduction, and organic compounds. Practice in calculations involving Chemistry is

also done. Laboratory exercises introduce simple laboratory skills and reinforce the topics and skills

presented. Students are required to complete a minimum of 1200 minutes of laboratory time. Students

will take the New York State Chemistry Regents Exam in June.

Prerequisite: Completion of a Biology course, approval by science teacher

CHEMISTRY: 635: 10th grade/ 1 credit

This course will present the basic structure of matter and the changes it can undergo. Topics include

matter, atomic structure, the Periodic Table, bonding, kinetics and equilibrium, acids and bases,

oxidation-reduction, organic chemistry. Practice in simple calculations involving chemical compounds

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and reactions is also done. Laboratory experiences introduce simple skills and reinforce the topics

presented in the classroom. The New York State Regents Exam in Chemistry is optional.

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology

REGENTS PHYSICS: 640/ 11th and 12th grades / 1 credit

This course explores the various forms of energy. Topics include: motion, forces, mechanical energy,

waves, sound and light, electric and magnetic fields, electric current, and basic concepts of “modern”

physics. There is a strong emphasis on mathematical applications and problem-solving. Laboratory

experiences reinforce the topics and skills presented. Students are required to complete a minimum of

1200 minutes of laboratory time. Students take the New York State Physics Regents Exam in June.

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Chemistry, approval by science teacher

HUMAN ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, FITNESS AND CONDITIONING: 633 /

12th grade/ 1 credit

This course examines the structure and function of the human body. Topics include: the parts of the

body (bones, muscles and organs) and the roles of the body’s systems. Laboratory experiences will be

included. The course will focus on fitness and conditioning which includes two or three sessions per

week at the gym. A separate fee will be applied to this course. At the culmination of the course, the

student is eligible to sit for the exam certifying them as a personal trainer.

Pre-requisite: Completion of two laboratory science courses, one of which must be Biology

REGENTS EARTH SCIENCE: 660/ 11th and 12th grades/ 1 credit

This course explores various processes occurring on the Earth and beyond the planet. Topics include:

geology, tectonics, mountains, continental drift, fossils, earth history, rocks and minerals, the water

cycle, oceanography, weather and climate, weather maps, astronomy, solar system, and evidence of the

origin and evolution of the universe. Students are required to complete a minimum of 1200 minutes of

laboratory time. All students must take the New York State Earth Science Exam (including the lab

practicum) in June.

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology and Chemistry

SOCIAL STUDIES

GLOBAL HISTORY I: 415/9th grade/ 1 credit

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This course covers important events in world history and the development of civilizations from the Paleolithic

(Old Stone Age) Period to the Renaissance.

GLOBAL HISTORY I HONORS: 410/9th grade/ 1 credit This course covers important events in world history and the development of civilizations from the Paleolithic

(Old Stone Age) Period to the Renaissance. Students will be challenged with independent study, discussion,

research, presentations and outside readings.

Prerequisite: Placement by the Department based on TACHS scores and 8th grade record

GLOBAL HISTORY AND GEOGRAPHY II: 425/10th grade/ 1 credit

This course reviews the history, culture and politics of the world. It begins with the Age of Exploration

and ends with current global issues. The students are expected to participate in large group discussions

and complete two research papers per marking period and one oral presentation per semester. Students

will take the New York State Regents Examination in Global History and Geography in June.

GLOBAL HISTORY AND GEOGRAPHY II HONORS: 420/10th grade/ 1 credit

This course stresses the history, culture and politics of the world. It begins with the Age of Exploration

and ends with current global issues. The students are expected to participate in large group discussions

and complete two research papers per marking period and one oral presentation per semester. Students

will take the New York State Regents Examination in Global History and Geography in June.

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Global History I

U. S. HISTORY AND GOVERNMENT: 435/11th grade/ 1 credit

This course examines the history of the United States from 1620 to 2011 with an emphasis on the United

States Constitution and how its interpretation has evolved over two centuries to change American life.

Major topics include the Colonial Period, the Constitution, Sectional Conflict and the Civil War,

Reconstruction, Industrialization, the World Wars, and the Cold War. Students will take the New York

State Regents Examination in United States History and Government in June.

AP UNITED STATES HISTORY: 485/11th grade/ 1 credit

This course is designed to provide students with a survey of American History. It will provide students

with the analytic skills and factual knowledge needed to critically analyze and evaluate the economic,

cultural, intellectual, social history, political-constitutional and diplomatic history of the United States

between 1492 and 2015. Students will use primary sources, lectures, group work and independent

research to weigh the evidence and interpretations presented in historical scholarship. Students will

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develop the skills necessary to arrive at conclusions on the basis of informed judgments and to articulate

reasons and evidence clearly and persuasively in essay format. Students will take the AP United States

History test in May.

Prerequisites: Approval by the current history teacher and at least two of the following-

• 88 or higher GPA for 2 years,

• 90 or higher in Global Courses,

• 90 or higher on the Global Regents exam

AMERICAN GOVERNMENT: 440/12th grade/ .5 credit

The topics covered in this course include: the necessity of government, the governmental system of the

United States and other nations; the U.S. Constitution, the values of American constitutional democracy,

and the roles, rights, and responsibilities of citizenship. The course surveys many parts of our

democratic form of government.

ECONOMICS: 441/12th grade/ .5 credit

This course emphasizes the evolution of money and its purpose in the United States monetary system

from its early years to its current existence. Major topics include: the story of money, the establishment

of the Federal Reserve Bank, and the rise and fall of the New York Stock Exchange over the past 200

years.

AP GOVERNMENT: 486/12th grade/ 1 credit

This college level course includes the following topics: Constitutional Underpinnings of United States

Government; Political Beliefs and Behaviors; Political Parties, Interest Groups and Mass Media;

Institutions of National Government; Public Policy; and Civil Rights and Civil Liberties. Students will

learn to analyze and interpret data and other information relevant to US government and politics.

Students will sit for the AP government examination in May.

Prerequisites: Approval by History Teacher and at least two of the following -

• 88 or higher overall GPA for 3 years (9th, 10th, 11th),

• 90 or higher average in the course US History Course,

• 90 or higher on the US History Regents Exam

PERSONAL FINANCE: 442/12th grade/ 1 credit

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The course is designed to acquaint the students with the financial world they are about to enter. Topics

include: money, banking, savings accounts, checking accounts, CDs, investing, stocks and bonds,

insurance (life and health), IRAs, pension plans, 401K plans, wills, tax preparation, and credit cards. The

course is intended to be a “hands-on” course in which students are required to participate in many facets

of the financial world. The course is designed to educate the students with the financial world they are

about to enter and the fiscal literacy that they need long after they graduate high school & college.

Topics include: money, banking, savings accounts, checking accounts, investing, stocks and bonds,

insurance (life and health), IRAs, pension plans, 40 I K plans, wills, tax preparation, and credit cards.

Entrepreneurship, business startups and business plans, including marketing. The course is intended to

be a "hands-on" course in which students are required to participate in many facets of the financial

world.

CRIMINAL LAW: 444/12th grade/ 1 credit

This course is designed to introduce students to the fascinating world of law. Topics covered are: the

history of law, criminal law, court procedures, the Supreme Court and related cases, and various civil

cases that have had an impact of the United States legal system. The student will also study the various

amendments to the Constitution and the effects they have on present day law.

INTRODUCTION TO PSYCHOLOGY/SOCIOLOGY: 492/493/ 12TH grade/ 1

credit

This class will be an elective course for seniors and will introduce them to the dual disciplines of

psychology (first semester) and sociology (second semester). The Psychology semester will act as an

introduction to the scientific & systematic study of human behavior and mental processes. Students will

assess various approaches to psychology including biological, behavioral, cognitive and socio-cultural

perspectives. Topics covered include psychological learning as well as unpacking the mechanisms of

memory, motivation, emotion, and personality. Sociology (second half) will focus on the systematic

understanding of social interaction, social organization, societal changes, social inequality, and the

impact of all these on human behavior.

BUSINESS LAW: 496/ 12th grade/ 1 credit

This survey course touches upon the six legal subjects that a first-year law student would be taking with a focus on businesses and corporations. These six subjects are: Civil Procedure, Constitutional Law, Torts, Contract Law, Criminal Law and Property Law. Additional topics covered are commercial paper, criminal procedure, and the Uniform Commercial Code to name a few. Upon completion of the course, the student will be familiar with legal knowledge, terms and concepts that can be used in managing any business enterprise. This course will offer him a glimpse at the world of the law of business, economics and finance on a college level.

Dual-Credit Opportunity

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Students enrolled in the course will receive credit for a high school elective through La Salle as well as 3 credits from St. John’s University, our neighbor on Astor Place and one of the largest Catholic universities in the country. St. John’s University offers this Business Law course to their underclassmen as a pre-requisite for many of their majors, but specifically for St. John’s Tobin College of Business. By enrolling in this course, La Salle students will have a leg up on other students applying for coveted spots in St. John’s business program.

Action-Based Learning & College Preparation

This course will include an action-based learning component with a business twist. Throughout the school year, the class will take field trips to various New York City-based corporate headquarters and other business-related locales as well as to St. John’s University’s Manhattan and Queens campuses to meet with professors and tour the campuses in preparation for college.