Grade 10 Curriculum Overview
- World Literature II
- Integrated Math II and III
- Catalan Language and Literature
- Physical Education
- Electives & Lynx Enrichment
World Literature II
During World Literature II, students will examine how authors can subvert and expand “the official story” that a society tells itself. In doing so, students investigate how authors expose their communities to stories that have previously been missing or silenced. Students will explore the role of literature in confronting questions such as: How does society identify and treat “the Other”? For whom are we responsible? and When do I take a stand?
Most of these units are designed to align with key historical eras covered during World History II. In “World Literature Book Clubs,” students explore the ways in which literature has been used to redefine a community’s sense of self (from the post-colonial to the global novel). In “Genre Study: Literature of the World Wars,” students explore how different texts have been used to record and communicate missing chapters of the official history. Finally, in “Our World in Our Hands: The Sophomore Symposium,” students explore the ways in which decolonization and the legacy of imperialism has given rise to global issues confronting our community today.
During each unit, students will engage in discussions and critical inquiry into the contexts and Essential Questions. They will work in small groups, pairs, and independently using articles, film, primary, and secondary sources. Additionally, students will synthesize their thinking through essays and notetaking. There are four reporting categories aligned with Common Core and IB standards which are recursive and will be assessed multiple times during each grading period as well as over the course of the year. And finally, students will conduct independent, interdisciplinary research about issues of social or environmental justice confronting their generation today; they will propose plans of action; and they will deliver the formal presentations of their findings during the Sophomore Symposium in the spring.
Integrated Math II and III
Integrated Math II
The Integrated Math II course aims to solidify and build upon skills learned in the previous course. We also aim to continue developing the skills that will be necessary for success in IB Mathematics. In this course we will study geometric relationships which will be later extended into trigonometry, where there will be a significant focus on problem solving skills. We will also look at the key concept of factoring quadratic expressions and how we can apply this skill to help us understand more about the nature of quadratic functions. Later in the course we will look at some probability and develop modeling techniques that help us to represent real life situations and make decisions based on our findings
Based on student performance, teacher recommendation, and standardized test scores in math, students may be placed in the higher level Integrated Math III course.
Integrated Math III
In the Integrated Math III course, students will learn to use new models and methods to think about problems as well as solve them. You will develop powerful mathematical tools and learn new ways to investigate situations. You will make connections, discover relationships, explain your thinking, and figure out what strategies can be used to solve problems. Learning to think in these ways and communicate about your thinking is useful in mathematical contexts, other subjects in school, and situations outside the classroom. The mathematics you have learned in the past will be valuable for this course. That previous work, and what you learn in this course, will prepare you for your future IB courses.
Catalan Language and Literature
This course is divided into two main parts: the study of semantics and linguistics and Catalan literature. Students will be introduced to Catalan literature, from its origins to the end of the twentieth century. Works representative of the most important movements in Catalan literature will be examined. There will be oral presentations and debate, video and oral recordings, as well as written assignments. Students will also have the opportunity to attend a Catalan theater performance. Note: Catalan is the language of instruction in this course and sufficient level of Catalan is required to take the course. Catalan as a Second Language may be offered where scheduling and numbers allow it.
Physical Education
This course exposes students to different lifelong recreational activities and sports, along with developing manipulative, locomotor and non-locomotor skills. Students are also taught basic fundamental fitness skills with proper warm up and cool down routines. Units include activities such as: floor hockey, badminton, softball, and ultimate frisbee.
Electives & Lynx Enrichment
Various electives are available to both ninth and tenth graders and can be taken as semester or year-long courses. Electives are 70 minutes long and take place twice every 6-day cycle. Students who take Catalan will have one elective; students who do not take Catalan will have two electives.
Lynx Enrichment activities are 45 minutes long and take place twice every 6-day cycle. All students take one Lynx Enrichment per semester.
Electives
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French
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Art
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Music
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Model United Nations (MUN)
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Debating Current Issues
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GOA Online Options
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Science in Service
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Technology (Various options including Maker Project Studio, Computer Science, Game Development, Video Effects, and more)
Lynx Enrichment
Service Programs
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English tutors at local schools ("Sharing to Learn")
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Yearbook
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RefugArt
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Rotary Interact
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Eco Club
Academic Programs
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NESDA Speech and Debate
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Model United Nations (MUN)
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Musical Theater
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MOOC
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Math Team
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Chess
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School Newspaper
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Film Studies
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Choir
Wellness
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Sport and Fitness
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Wellness (quiet space)
World Studies II
This is a survey of modern world history and social sciences that ranges from imperialism to globalization. Because of the enormous volume of information involved, emphasis will be on major events, concepts, trends and personalities. Students will be asked to identify conflicts, issues and solutions within their historical studies and make connections with the world today. Throughout the course, students will be asked to reflect on the following essential themes/questions that recur throughout this period of human history. The units include guiding questions such as “why do groups try to control one another?”, “is conflict inevitable?” and “how do oppressed people advocate for power and rights?”
Chemistry and Physics
Chemistry
This course is designed to give students a sound base in chemistry and demonstrate the practical applications of chemistry in our world. The course topics include atomic structure, chemical names, bonding (ionic, covalent and metallic), formulas, chemical reactions, equations ( molecular and ionic), stoichiometry, redox reactions , batteries, electrochemistry, and organic chemistry (hydrocarbons, functional groups, reactions including combustion, oxidation, addition and substitution) Students study both conceptual and analytical applications. Weekly lab experimentation supports the development of essential concepts.
Physics
A basic introduction to physics is given, covering a broad range of topics both conceptually and analytically. Basic algebra skills are required as problem solving skills with formulas are developed. Topics to be covered include math techniques, kinematics, dynamics, work and energy, machines, waves and optics, and imaging. Experimentation and report writing are also central components to the course.
Spanish History and Literature
The objective of this course is to learn about the History, Literature and society in Spain between the end of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century. Students will be exposed to different texts from this period and will learn how to approach them analytically keeping in mind the historical and socio-political context. In order to achieve this goal, we will apply different strategies that will lead to a better comprehension of this crucial time of Spanish History, as well as Spanish Literature.
Note: Non-native speakers of Spanish whose level of Spanish is not high enough to take part in this course take leveled Spanish Language Learners (SLL) with the goal of achieving fluency so that they can eventually be integrated into regular Spanish classes.
Advisory
This course focuses on the development of life skills that will help you make good decisions regarding health, emotional, social and sexual issues. We focus on matters such as relationships, self-esteem, peer pressure, and strategies for dealing with them. We also partake in several team building activities that allow us to interact better and form special bonds within our group.