Accotink Alternative's curriculum utilizes a mutlisensory & experiential approach to learning. Our courses are designed to meet graduation requirements for Fairfax County and District of Columbia Public School systems and to prepare students to pass the Virginia Standards of Learning (SOL) testing.

Course Descriptions 2007-2008

CORE SUBJECTS
English
Math
Science
Social Studies

ELECTIVES
Art
Journalism
Spanish
Technology for Publication
Music
Career & Future Pathways
College Prep
Physical Education and Health
Theatre Arts
Technology for Career & Future Success
Developing Literacy
Decoding and Fluency
Fluency and Comprehension
Algebra Support
Web Page Design
Organization and Tutoring

 

ENGLISH PROGRAM

English 7 & 8. Students read a variety of literature, building on an understanding of reading as a process that includes analyzing and comprehending texts. Language study includes vocabulary building and learning about grammar, language use, and spelling. Through varied and frequent writing assignments, students build on their understanding of writing as a process that includes drafting, composing, revising, proofreading, and publishing. They use writing to develop ideas and learn new concepts. Students also learn discussion skills and group process skills, and learn to adapt speaking and listening to the audience, topic, purpose, and situation. Reading and writing competencies addressed in the Virginia & DC standards of learning are incorporated into the course objectives.

English 9. English 9 is a survey course that includes the study of grammar, composition, and the major works of literature. Students review the basic rules of English grammar, develop note-taking skills, and practice research skills as they compose reports and compositions. Literary works include short stories, essays, novels, plays, and poems from a variety of genres. Technology skills are used to complete assignments such as research projects, essays, and multi-media presentations.

English 10. In English 10, students review and reinforce basic grammar, vocabulary and writing skills taught in previous English courses. After extensive research and experiment with various forms of writings such as short story, poetry, drama, and non-fictional essays, students produce a responsive multi-paragraph composition. Technology skills are used to complete research projects, essays, and multi-media presentations.

English 11. English 11 is designed to teach students competency in written and spoken English and to expose them to literature from American writers in the Colonial Period to the Twentieth Century. Grammar development continues through the application of rules for sentence formation, usage, spelling and mechanics. The student read both classical and contemporary American literature and are able to identify the prevalent themes and characterizations present in American literature.

English 12. English 12 includes a variety of British literature and an overall review of grammar. Students also engage in study skills as well as research skills that are designed to prepare them for college level work. Practical English skills include producing a resume, learning techniques for reading newspapers and writing a business letter. Technology skills are used to complete assignments such as research projects, essays, and multi-media presentations.

MATH PROGRAM

Math 7 & 8. Students examine and/or extend their knowledge of algebra- and geometry-preparatory concepts and skills and strategies for collecting and analyzing data. Problem solving, communication, and making connections among mathematical ideas are emphasized in a hands-on learning environment. The use of fraction calculators and computers may also be integrated with instruction.

Personal Finance. The course is designed to teach the skills necessary to manage personal finances and to make sound financial decisions. Students learn how to become educated consumers. Course topics include personal money management, budgeting, how to balance a checkbook, banking, taxation, how to open a bank account, and how to judge the quality of a bank's service. They track expenses, figure unit cost of products, compute sales tax and figure the final price of sale items, and develop budgets. Students also compute elapsed time, calculate wages and use measurements.

Pre-Algebra. This course is designed to transition students from basic math skills to the more formal Algebra program. Pre-Algebra teaches basic concepts of mathematics and introduces algebraic concepts in a step-by-step approach, using a variety of types of instruction delivery. Upon successful completion of Pre-Algebra, students are able to understand, represent and use numbers in a variety of equivalent forms such as integers, fractions, decimals, percentages, exponentials and scientific notations, in both real world and mathematical problem situations. Course content covers all basic operations in algebraic equations and expressions using whole numbers, decimals, and fractions. Students use order of operation, substitution and other appropriate strategies in evaluating algebraic expressions.

Algebra I, Part 1. This course sequence (Part 1 & Part 2) offers an extended time frame for the study of Algebra and greater opportunities for practice than does Algebra I alone. Content in this course is comparable to the first semester of Algebra I. The goal for students in Part 1 is to achieve competency in nine areas: fractions, decimals, signed numbers, combining like terms, order of operations, substitution, solving simple and complex equations, measures of central tendency (mean, median, mode), linear relations and functions, and graphing.

Algebra I, Part 2. Content in this course is comparable to the second semester of Algebra I. Further practice and mastery of concepts in Part I is provided including extending students knowledge of variables, expressions, equations, inequalities, and analysis of data derived from real-world phenomena. Application of algebraic concepts is emphasized. Calculator and computer technologies are used as tools whenever appropriate.

Algebra. This course teaches the basic concepts of algebra in a step-by-step approach, using a variety of types of instructional delivery. Upon successful completion of Algebra, students can understand, represent and use numbers in a variety of equivalent forms such as integers, fractions, decimals, percentages exponentials, and scientific notations in real-world and mathematical problem situations. The course content covers all basic operations using positive and negative integers, decimals and fractions to simplify and evaluate algebraic expressions and equations. Students identify and factor trinomials and solve quadratic equations by factoring. Students also identify the parts of a graph, solve equations for ordered pairs and graph a line, and evaluate linear equations and inequalities in the coordinate plane.

Algebra II. The purpose of the Algebra II curriculum is to increase student awareness of the importance of mathematics in the modern world. The students will become more confident with their ability to work with mathematical concepts and relationships. They learn how to think systematically and use the precise logic required for mathematical problem solving. This course builds on the student's understanding of basic algebraic and geometrical concepts in the study of more advanced algebraic skills and problem solving. Students learn to express real-world problems in algebraic sentences in order to find solutions. Successful completion of the course is an indispensable step in preparation for pre-calculus, trigonometry, and calculus course.

Geometry, Part 1. This course presents the first semester of Geometry in a year-long class, preparing students for Part 2 of the Geometry course required for graduation. The course consists of integrated plane geometry and an introduction to logic and proofs. Properties and relationships of lines, angles, and triangles are developed. Topics include conditional statements, syllogisms, points in space, parallel lines, transversals, planes, congruence, the Pythagorean Theorem, and similarity. This course includes an integrated review of algebraic topics needed in geometry.

Geometry, Part 2. Content in this course is comparable to the second semester of Geometry. The course offers an extended time frame for the study of each topic and greater opportunities for practice than does Geometry. Application of geometric concepts is emphasized. Topics include area, perimeter, symmetry, rotations, length, circumferences, secants, tangents, volume, surface area, and polyhedron.

Geometry. This course includes an overview of the properties of geometric figures, coordinate and transformational geometry, basic trigonometric relationships, and reasoning skills used to justify conclusions (logic and proofs). An emphasis is placed on two- and three-dimensional reasoning skills, and the use of geometric models to solve problems.

Trigonometry. In this course, students study trigonometric definitions and applications, graphing, and solving trigonometric equations and inequalities. An emphasis is placed on making connections between right triangle ratios and trigonometric functions, communication (oral and written) concerning the language of mathematics, the logic or procedure, and the interpretation of results.

SCIENCE PROGRAM

Life Science. This is a life science course in which interactions between organisms and their environment are studied through use of living materials, printed materials, laboratory investigations, and computer technology. Science content strands on cellular structure and function; heredity, and diversity, and ecosystems are emphasized throughout the year. Scientific skills such as the following are integrated during hands-on science experiences: designing experiments; collecting data, and interpreting results, and constructing models to illustrate concepts.

Physical Science. This course builds upon the experiences in the physical sciences introduced to students in upper elementary. Properties of matter; energy forms and their transformations; and forces and motion are content strands developed through a sequence of varied instructional strategies with an emphasis on experimentation, observation, generalization, and discussion. Skills for designing student investigations; collecting, organizing and analyzing data; and communicating results are integrated throughout the course. Graphing calculators and computer technologies including probe-ware, CD-ROM, and videodisc are integrated with instruction and used to enhance student understanding.

Earth Science. This course is the same as GeoSystems offered by FCPS. Students explore the planet Earth, its changes and its place in the solar system. Earth Science can be divided into four major branches: geology: the study of the solid part of the earth; meteorology: the study of the atmosphere; plate tectonics: the study of the movement of the earth's crust; and, astronomy: the study of the universe and the earth's position in it. Topics include: Stewardship of the Earth; Exploring the Earth and Methods of Science; the Biosphere; Mapping; the Dynamic Earth; Composition of the Earth; History of the Earth; Oceans; Atmospheric Forces; the Earth in Space; the Solar System, Galaxy, and Universe.

Biology. This course is an introductory study of life processes and organisms. Laboratory activities allow students to directly study organisms and practice the process of observation, classification, and appropriate lab technique. Included is an overview of the chemical nature of matter and life, cells, genetics, evolution and evidence for change, classifications of organisms, and ecological interactions.

Chemistry. Chemistry is the scientific study of the properties and interactions of the building blocks of matter. Matter is anything taking up space that has weight. In this course students develop a practical understanding of the connection between matter and energy through the use of laboratory techniques, manipulation of chemical quantities and problem-solving applications. The scientific methodology is used in experimental and analytical investigations, using observation, experimentation, models, evidence and systematic processes.

Physics. This course will motivate the student to investigate and explore the physical nature of the world using classical physics. Through the use of hands-on laboratory experiences, Internet resources, and teacher-led activities, students conceptualize and understand principles of physics. These principles include mechanics, heat, light and optics, waves and sound, electricity and magnetism. Underlying all investigative aspects of the course will be the fundamental three-step process of problem-solving: Observe, Analyze, Predict.

SOCIAL STUDIES PROGRAM

Social Studies 7 & 8. The seventh grade program surveys United States history since 1877. Important trends in United States history are identified by analyzing the roles of individuals and important events. Students develop historical thinking skills and extend understanding of how geography shapes history.

The eighth grade program prepares students for responsible and productive citizenship. An understanding of government and politics in a democratic republic and the American economy system is emphasized. Students develop an understanding of individual rights and responsibilities; the ideals of liberty, justice, and equity; and the rule of law. Students learn about making choices and recognizing the consequences of personal, political, and economic decisions. Students learn to value individual and group expression, diversity, and the attributes of good citizenship.

World History & Geography I. This course provides ninth grade students with an introduction to ancient Greece, Rome, and Western European society up to the Renaissance. The course also examines the birth of democracy, age of imperialism, nationalism, and the spread of war and revolution. Students learn about the rise and fall of nations, the ideas of great thinkers, and the lasting influences of different cultures. Students also learn how geography and scientific discovery have affected the history of the world.

World History & Geography II. This course is part two of a survey of the history of humankind as viewed through the perspective of the Western hemisphere. The course begins with the time period known as the Renaissance. General themes taught include: the Renaissance, the Protestant Reformation, the Enlightenment the Industrial Revolution, World War I and II, and Religious Movements. Additionally, students analyze these eras in contrast to the empires and cultures of Asia, Africa, North and South America. Particular emphasis is placed upon economy and public policy.

VA and U.S. History. The objective of this course is to increase the student's understanding of United States history (the political, economic, social, and cultural growth) including the role of Virginia. While focusing on political and economic history, the students gain a basic knowledge of American culture through a chronological survey of dominant movements and events. Students use historical and geographical skills to explore the role of the five institutions of society (church, government, school, family and community) as applied to events, people and ideas

VA and US Government. Students study the origins of the American political system and how it works at all levels: national, state and local. Students gain knowledge about the United States and Virginia constitutions and the structure and operation of government institutions. Students examine the process of policy-making, and the impact of the individual and public, political parties, interest groups, and the media on government. The roots of government are traced as far back as the Roman Empire.

U.S./D.C. Government. Students study the origins of the American political system and how it works at all levels: national, state and local. Students study the United States constitution and analyze the workings of the District of Columbia city government, which is not part of a state system. Students examine the process of policy-making, and the impact of the individual and public, political parties, interest groups, and the media on government. The roots of government are traced as far back as the Roman Empire.

ELECTIVES PROGRAM

Algebra Support. This course is designed for the student who is required by district guidelines to take Algebra in 9th grade and does not have the essential math skills to successfully complete the class. Instruction will be given to help the student develop the missing skills.

Active Physics. In this elective physics course, the subject matter (the physical universe and its rules) is treated conceptually. Activity, discovery "hands-on" approach is used to explore subject matter. Topics include kinematics, forces, heat, electricity, magnetism, energy, light and waves.

Art I. This course focuses on the study and exploration of basic fundamentals of drawing, sculpture, and painting in a variety of media. The study of art history, criticism, and aesthetics is incorporated. Students develop skills in drawing, painting, printmaking, and 3-D media.

Art II. Students expand and refine knowledge and skills in the areas of art production, visual literacy, and art history developed in Art I. Students study art history, aesthetics, and criticism from a chronological perspective. Emphasis on developing analytical and critical thinking skills while evaluating works of art.

Career & Future Pathways I. This course is offered to juniors and seniors for the purpose of helping them prepare for their futures. This course is designed to introduce and examine necessary employability skills such as work ethic, communications skills, organizational skills, self-discipline, and the importance of an enthusiastic attitude. Students will explore interests in future occupations, colleges, or vocational training. Many students participate in off-camps internships through which they acquire entry-level work experience, work references & recommendation letters, and are paid a small stipend. Students also participate in the classroom component of the course, in which they explore careers, evaluate their interests and abilities, research and apply for colleges and training opportunities, learn money management skills, and learn job search and job retention skills. Classroom activities include on-line research, discussion, role-plays, individual and small-group projects and individual guidance from the teacher in setting and achieving individual goals.

Career & Future Pathways II. This course is a continuation of Career & Future Pathways I. Students are provided another occasion to explore various occupations and opportunities. Students refine interviewing skills, job retention skills, and work ethic. Students refine their individual life goals and steps to achieve these goals.

Character Education. This course utilizes on-line teen-oriented software to engage students in thinking about personal and social ethics, purposes of community service and volunteerism, and their role and responsibility as future leaders of their community. Students have the opportunity to create and engage in a community service project.

College Prep. Our school is approved as a testing site for the PSAT and the SAT. This course offers test preparation skills and strategies for standardized tests such as the PSAT and SAT. This course also helps students learn important academic skills such as note taking, research preparation and organization, and time management. It focuses on essential vocabulary and advanced writing skills necessary for success in college.

Computer Literacy I. This course spans instruction from basic keyboarding, application of Microsoft Office programs such as MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Publisher. Students will also learn basic internet research skills.

Computer Literacy II. This course expands on the knowledge learned in Computer Literacy I with more advanced practice in the programs. Students create PowerPoint presentations and websites. Students also learn the basics of computer repair. Students learn how to use one of the following programs: DragonSpeak and/or ViaVoice to assist them in writing research papers.

Decoding and Fluency. This course is designed for the student who has mastered basic phonemic skills but is not able to apply the knowledge fluently. The student may struggle with automaticity in either sound, single syllable or multi-syllable words.

Developing Literacies. This course provides direct remediation of reading comprehension skills necessary to understand the contents of math, science, social studies, and English literature. This course is intended for students with reading comprehension test scores demonstrating three years or more behind grade level.

Fluency and Comprehension. This course is designed for the student who has good or developing ability to fluently decode single sounds or syllables. Fluency strategies are employed to increase automaticity while reading in connected text to aid reading comprehension.

Health Education. This course focuses on understanding teenage physical, social and emotional development; and, personal growth through positive and informed decision-making. The readings and group discussions cover personal responsibility and character education, human anatomy and development, healthy hygiene, safe practices in dating and socializing, and a general overview of sexually transmitted diseases.

Journalism. Students acquire journalistic skills needed to obtain accurate information and write precisely and succinctly for the school newsletter. They examine various kinds of media in society. Students will also learn the basic skills of interviewing, writing, and layout for the school's newspaper, yearbook, and website.

Music. Exposure to music is a vital part of a well-rounded course of study. Combining lectures, hands-on work, and creative projects, this course exposes students to musical expressions from other cultures as well as music unique to North America. Instruments include keyboard, drums, guitar, rhythm instruments, recorder and voice. Students are taught the basics of reading, writing and performing music and develop individual projects around their particular musical interests.

Organization and Tutoring. This course is designed for the student who has difficulty organizing their physical school supplies, assignments or projects. It is also useful for students who become overwhelmed with school assignments to help them organize and prioritize tasks.

Photography. This course teaches the principles of photography and fundamental camera techniques. Activities require outside shooting, rudimentary film development, and printing take place in our on-site dark room.

Physical Education. The two major aspects of our daily lives that most affect our level of wellness are exercise and diet. This course exposes students to a wide variety of sports using parks and local recreation centers. Activities have included softball, rock wall climbing, bowling, tai chi, golf and spinning. The physical education program works to instill in its students total fitness and wellness.

Spanish I. The main goal of Spanish I is the development of communication skills in real-life contexts. Rather than isolating vocabulary and grammar as discrete skills, they are integrated into hypothetical situations in which students could be required to function using the Spanish language. The course also focuses on learning about the cultures of Spanish-speaking countries through the viewing of movies, listening to music, and participating in Spanish cooking and holiday experiences.

Spanish II. This course is a continuation of Spanish I with a greater emphasis on developing the student's ability to communicate with fluency. Students are given opportunities to use Spanish in simulations of "real life" meaningful situations. Classes feature greater student-teacher interaction as well as daily oral activities including skits, games, listening activities, the viewing of Spanish language films, etc. Students develop an understanding of advanced grammatical concepts. Cultural knowledge is an important component: elements of Hispanic character, customs and the way in which Spanish and Latin American peoples view themselves and others in the world. The class is conducted entirely in Spanish and each student is expected to use his/her language skills to their maximum ability.

Spanish III. Students continue to develop proficiency in all four language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing with emphasis on consistent and sustained use of the languages orally using more complex grammatical structures. They discuss reading selections relationships and associate them with proper meaning. They write reports, general correspondence, and simple compositions. They also study the influence of the target language culture(s) on American culture.

Technology for Career & Future Success. This is an innovative course created for Accotink Alternative students and tailored to each individual's specific disability. The course focuses on teaching students to use technologies that have been developed to increase, maintain, or assist the functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities. Students will learn to enhance their ability to use technology to access content in academics. Students learn to recognize and utilize technology as a means of accommodation. Students will learn to use voice recognition software, alternative keyboards, environmental control devices, advanced feedback technologies, alternative writing instruments, electronic organizers, memory aids, the use of optimal font size and color, and word prediction aids in order to reach their educational goals as outlined in their IEPs/IIPs & transition plans. These technologies combined with the concrete educational objectives and tested teaching methods address ADD/ADHD and deficits in visual tracking, time on task, short term memory sequencing, and discriminatory processing. In addition, students will become familiar with their specific learning styles and encouraged to advocate for themselves by understanding which technology is appropriate in a variety of setting and situations.

Technology for Publication. This course provides the student with the technological skills necessary to publish a simple newspaper. In this course students will learn and apply MS Work, Publisher and Microsoft Pic Manager. They will become skilled at using a scanner and a digital camera to enhance publication. Students will use devices such as a tape recorder and internet search engines to research for articles. It also provides students with practice for essential written language skills in a meaningful context.

Theatre Arts. This course provides students with a survey of the theatre arts, allowing students opportunities to experience and appreciate dramatic literature, and participate in the creative processes of performance and production. The course emphasizes skill development and provides theatrical opportunities that enable students to determine personal areas of interest.

Web Page Design. This course is designed for students who have basic computer skills. The students will design a web site.