The Arts:
1) Art History of the Western World - CANCELLED
Art History of the Western World is an introductory course designed for students interested in exploring the masterpieces of Western civilization. Students will examine the history of Western art from its classical roots in ancient Greece up to the present day. The artwork of each historical period will consider the social, political and religious contexts in which they were created. By comprehending the importance of great works within their own time frame, students will gain a stronger understanding of their significance today.
Open to: Grades 9 - 12
Level: College Prep
Course Duration: Second Semester
Prerequisite: None
Instructor: Meghan Drew
2) Digital Fine Art Photography
This introductory online course will explore the fundamentals of digital fine art photography, including composition, capture, editing, and output. We will cover the foundations of what it takes to make a high quality creative photographic image with a digital camera. The basic terms and techniques of photography will be explained so that students can get the most out of their subject and camera. We will discuss current digital imaging technology and how that affects the way we take pictures. Students will use online image editing software to edit and manipulate photographs. Students will need regular access to a 6 megapixel (or more) digital point-and-shoot or DSLR camera for this course. Additionally, students will create an online portfolio of their photographs and maintain a reflection blog of their experiences.
Open to: Grades 9 - 12
Level: College Prep
Course Duration: First Semester
Prerequisite: None
Instructor: Sterling Worrell
English:
3) Literature and Film: The Challenge of Adaption
Long before Twilight and Harry Potter, filmmakers have used literature as the basis for their works. The choices directors and screenwriters make in adapting novels evoke diverse results from their modern audiences. In this 18-week class, students will study Sense and Sensibility (1811, British), The Namesake (2003, American/Indian), and Ethan Frome (1911, American) as novels and films. Students will also pick one book/movie combination to independently study and report on. This course is for juniors and seniors and is honors level. Students must have successfully completed grades 9 and 10 English. Students who take this course should be independent learners who will read and take notes about four challenging novels and closely study four films. Books will be provided, but students will be responsible for locating and viewing films (with occasional screenings available at Millis High School). Weekly assignments will include short essays and forum discussions. Midterm and final assessments will be longer essays.
Open to: Grades 11 - 12
Level: Honors
Course Duration: Second Semester
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Gr. 9 & 10 English
Instructor: Abbey Dick
4) News Reporting
Participants in News Reporting will investigate how to discover and assess the nature of news. Students will evaluate and create short news packages relevant to the world in which they live. They will collaborate online to generate ideas, discuss relevant issues, and share their news packages. In addition, participants will learn how to market themselves and their finished products. Topics include: responsible journalism, field interviewing techniques, propaganda, composing a news package and marketing a product.
Open to: All
Level: College Prep
Course Duration: First Semester
Prerequisite: None
Instructor: Samantha Bookston
5) Unforgettable Short Stories: Reading, Writing, and Critical Thinking
Short stories are undoubtedly the most compelling genre, combining narrative elements of fiction, the style of poetry, and the emotional power of drama in a short, digestible format. In just a few pages, authors can create unforgettable characters, devastating conflicts, and impossible situations. In this course, students will study, discuss, and analyze some of the most remarkable short stories ever written, both from America and from around the world. Though some classic stories will be read, many will be modern and contemporary. Many of the works have been made into fascinating films to watch and dissect. Assignments will include journals, discussions, and essays. Students will also write creative articles of short fiction based on pieces they've read.
Open to: Grades 11 & 12
Level: College Prep
Course Duration: First Semester
Prerequisite: Successful completion of English 9 & 10
Instructor: Abbey Dick
6) Writers Seminar - CANCELLED
Does writing scare you, or do you like to express your ideas on the page? Whatever the case, it is important to polish your writing skills to engage, inform, and impress readers. Wherever you go and whatever you do in the future, you will have to communicate through the written word. This course will benefit you by helping to improve your ability for self-expression and build confidence in composing and editing. The course is designed to help prepare students for college-level writing, but students who enjoy writing but do not plan on attending college may also participate. Participants will read the works of several contemporary professional authors (such as David Sedaris, Sherman Alexie, Amy Tan, and Joyce Carol Oates, among others) to examine techniques to integrate into their own pieces. In addition, students will be expected to share their work with other participants in order to revise, edit, and offer helpful feedback. Approaching writing as a process, attention will be paid to clarity, organization, coherence, and analysis. Students will be asked to write journals, discussion posts, and essays (encompassing expository, analytical, and creative writing).
Open to: Grades 11 - 12
Level: College Prep
Course Duration: Second Semester
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Gr. 9 & 10 English
Instructor: Anne Malchodi
Foreign Language:
7) Latin and Greek
Latin and Greek is intended for all students interested in developing the skills necessary for reading Latin and Ancient Greek literature. The objective of the course is a thorough understanding of the basic grammatical patterns of Latin and Greek literature, the development of a strong vocabulary base, and an ability to read short stories in Latin and Ancient Greek. The history and mythology of classical Rome and Greece are emphasized. Careful nightly preparation is expected. This course is particularly useful in building the English vocabulary skills needing for success on the SAT by manipulating Latin and Greek roots in high-level English vocabulary. Latin and Greek may also be used to meet the foreign language requirement.
Open to: Grades 9 - 12
Level: Honors
Course Duration: Full Year Course
Prerequisite: None
Instructor: Bruce Mitchell
8) Spanish for Business - FILLED, taking waitlist
Spanish for Business will focus on teaching students how to communicate in typical business situations through listening, speaking, reading and writing. The course will apply the use of appropriate etiquette, cultural notes, grammar and conversation. Class experiences will include webquests, wikis, blogs, and listening to audio recordings of vocabulary sets, simplified grammar rules and conversations. Lessons for each topic will contain conversational situations for specific business. The class is organized into chapters covering different business themes as well as various cultural aspects and business etiquette of Spanish speaking countries. Students taking this course must have at least four years of Spanish.
Open to: Grade 12
Level: Honors
Course Duration: Second Semester
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Spanish 4
Instructor: TBA
Health/Wellness:
9) Destination Health and Fitness
This course is an exploration into the hot topics in wellness facing high school students today. This semester-long course will focus on developing lifelong healthy living and decision-making skills for the 21st century. Students will explore attitudes, thoughts, beliefs and current trends around topics in personal fitness, nutrition, diabetes, and heart health. Unlike a traditional physical education class, students will keep activity logs and create fitness programs based on their interests. Evaluation of the course will be determined by: online discussion boards, readings and responses, written assignments of current research and data pertaining to these topics, Food Inc video and responses.
Open to: Grades 9 - 12
Level: College Prep
Course Duration: Second Semester
Prerequisite: None
Instructor: Dara Johnson
Math:
10) Beyond Algebra & Geometry - CANCELLED
Now that you have successfully completed Algebra and Geometry what is your next step beyond Algebra & Geometry? This course will provide an opportunity to actually apply and enhance the math skills students have previously acquired. Through a diverse collection of math topics including logic and problem-solving skills involving deductive reasoning, quadratic equations, sets and number theory, applied problems related to ration proportion and measurement and geometric concepts, students will add to their math toolkit. Participants will be challenged to process and solve applied problems related to each of these topics. In addition, the topics of the math of finance and probability will be introduced. This course may be used for credit recovery.
Open to: Grades 10 - 12
Level: College Prep
Course Duration: Full Year
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra and Geometry
Instructor: Mike Curry
11) Introduction to Business/Personal Finance
This course is an introduction to essential business skills such as management, understanding consumer needs, and ethical/responsible behavior. Business is also used as a way of illustrating important real world skills such as making decisions, managing processes, critical thinking, and acting as a responsible citizen. The course is hands-on, project based, and utilizes a variety of engaging computer-based simulations that allow students to operate convenience stores, distribution centers, and experience other realistic situations. A significant "life skills" unit teaches financial literacy, setting financial goals, managing one's career, understanding credit and debt, and achieving balance between personal and work life.
Open to: Grades 9 - 12
Level: College Prep
Course Duration: Second Semester
Prerequisite: None
Instructor: Joe Williams
12) Managing My Money
This course will present an overview of topics related to individual and family money management. In the first semester, students will set up and maintain a personal budget, a checking account and a savings account. They will also learn about borrowing money using credit cards, taking out an installment loan for a major purchase, and shopping for a mortgage. In the second semester, the class members will continue to manage their personal budgets and bank accounts while exploring longer-term investments and saving for major purchases such as college, a house, and eventual retirement. Students will also learn how to shop for insurance for health, life, automobile, and home. They will create and manage a portfolio of investments and will examine the impact of career choices on reaching financial goals. It won't be long before you are on your own. How will you handle your finances?
Open to: Grades 9 - 12
Level: College Prep
Course Duration: Full Year
Prerequisite: None
Instructor: Richard Mobley
Science:
13) AP Environmental Science
This full-year AP Environmental Science class is equivalent to an introductory, one semester, college level Environmental Science class. If you have successfully completed both high school level biology and chemistry, if you are interested in the environment and, if you are looking for a challenge, this course might be for you! Because this is a college level course, be ready to commit time to your study. This course will cover concepts in ecology, geology, sociology, biology and chemistry that will further your understanding of Earth and the life on it. Students examine interrelationships with the natural world, identify and analyze environmental problems, both natural and human-made, evaluate risks associated with these problems, and examine alternative solutions for resolving/or preventing them. Integrated in the course is a laboratory component which will improve the students' observational skills, allow them to develop and conduct well-designed experiments, and have them interpret and share their results and conclusions with classmates. Each student will also become involved in a Personal Research Project.
Open to: Grades 11 - 12
Level: AP
Course Duration: Full Year
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology & a lab course in the physical science(s)
Instructor: Charlotte Shire
14) Environmental Science - CANCELLED
Environmental Science is the scientific process that seeks to explain how humans interact with and manipulate the natural environment. The guiding theme throughout the course is sustainability and how humans can use the earth's natural resources while preventing negative impacts on ecosystems. Thus, the course will examine the wide range of ecosystem capital provided by natural systems including water, fossil fuels and energy, ecosystem function and management, soil, and the atmosphere. Students will apply the scientific process of questioning and controlled experimentation to determine impacts of human activities such as mining and air pollution on vegetation and population dynamics. The goal of this course is to create students who think and act in ways that promote a sustainable relationship between themselves and the natural environment.
Open to: Grades 11 - 12
Level: College Prep, Honors
Course Duration: First Semester
Prerequisite: at least two of the following: Biology, Physics, and Chemistry
Instructor: Christopher Ashley
15) Forensic Science
In this course, students will learn how criminal investigators use science to provide information that could establish the guilt or innocence of people suspected of criminal activity. Each student will be asked to play the role of forensic scientist. Applying the principles of chemical science, physical science, life science, earth science, archaeology and anthropology, students will gather, analyze, and interpret evidence and make interpretations of crime scenarios. Lab activities and website interactions will be important parts of the course. In order to add realism to the course, students will investigate real-life studies (e.g., video presentations and website programs). The course has been designed for students that are motivated and are able to work well independently and in small groups. Some of the topics that will be covered include DNA fingerprinting, forensic toxicology, forensic anthropology, forensic informatics, and firearms and ballistic examination. Using various disciplines of science, students will gather, analyze, and interpret evidence, and make interpretations of crime scenarios.
Open to: Grades 11 - 12
Level: College Prep
Course Duration: Second Semester
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology
Instructor: James Levasseur
16) Genetics
This course is designed as an introduction to the study of genetics. We will begin with the form and function of DNA and progress to how genes are expressed and passed down from generation to generation. Biotechnology will be introduced as it applies to the topics covered. Students will investigate how genetics impact their daily lives. Emphasis will be placed on problem-solving, online activities, discussion and projects, as well as reading and research. Although the class does not have a physical lab at their disposal, they will be utilizing a number of available electronic tools in order to replace the laboratory.
Open to: (see prerequisite)
Level: Honors
Course Duration: First Semester
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology
Instructor: Lindsey Reichheld
17) Marine Biology - CANCELLED
People all over the world are fascinated with the beauty and the power of the sea. Are you? If so, this course is for you. This course is designed for any student with an interest in the marine ecosystems. Students will gain knowledge of the ocean ecosystem and an awareness of the importance of protecting that environment. This introduction to the ocean environment will provide a chance to apply some physics, biology, geology and chemistry concepts. Major topics to be covered include the diversity of marine organisms, the ecology of the various sea zones, coastal geology, tides, ocean currents and tectonic activity. Instruction will be a combination of readings, research, and lab activities (both hands-on and online simulations.)
Open to: Grades 10 - 12
Level: College Prep
Course Duration: Second Semester
Prerequisite: College Prep Biology
Instructor: Judy Noble
Social Studies:
18) The Archaeology of Ancient Greece - FILLED, taking waitlist
How does the culture of ancient Greece reveal itself to us? How do we know so much about a culture that existed almost 2,000 years ago? The Archaeology of Ancient Greece will explore the material remains of ancient Greece, focusing on the primary sources, both literary and physical, that allow us to formulate some understanding of these distant cultures. This course will include historical, literary, and art historical readings and units. The Greece course will begin with the mythology of early Greece, including the Trojan War and its heroes, progress through classical Athens and its development of democracy, and end with the empire of Alexander the Great. Assessments will include, but will not be limited to, short quizzes, response journals and creative projects.
Open to: Grades 9 - 12
Level: College Prep, Honors
Course Duration: First Semester
Prerequisite: None
Instructor: Ed DeHoratius
19) The Archaeology of Ancient Rome
How does the culture of ancient Rome reveal itself to us? How do we know so much about a culture that existed almost 2000 years ago? The Archaeology of Ancient Rome will focus on primary sources, both literary and physical, that allow us to formulate some understanding of this distant culture. We will begin with Rome's legendary beginnings in Troy and the legend of Romulus and Remus, continue through the Roman Republic and the Roman Civil Wars, focusing on the role of Caesar and the rise of Augustus, and end with the Roman Empire and its legacy. Assessments will include, but will not be limited to, short quizzes, response journals and creative projects with the materials.
Open to: Grades 9 - 12
Level: College Prep, Honors
Course Duration: Second Semester
Prerequisite: None
Instructor: Ed DeHoratius
20) Facing History and Ourselves - CANCELLED
Facing History and Ourselves is a course that uses The Holocaust, the attempt by the Nazis to exterminate the Jews, and "others that were perceived as undesirable groups" of Europe during World War II, as a case study to explore the social systems, psychology, economics and history that are the causes of such events. The course explores issues of the individual in society, societal groupings into "we and they", and the judgment, memory and legacy of people and events of the Holocaust. Students will learn what it means to be a victim, perpetrator, resister, and bystander and how they have the power to choose, in many cases, the role they play. Nightly readings, frequent journal entries and online discussions are core aspects of this course along with analyzing video and other digital recordings and creating digital projects to demonstrate understanding.
Open to: All
Level: College Prep
Course Duration: Second Semester
Prerequisite: None
Instructor: Christine Carr
21) Irish History
This course will explore key periods of Irish history and how those periods impacted the development of Ireland as a nation, including how that history contributed to the creation of Northern Ireland. Students will identify the early influences of the Celtic society, discover the factors contributing to Irish nationalism as well as examine inequities for the Catholic majority in Northern Ireland and identify how this contributed to the civil unrest in the 1960s. The impact of the 1916 Rebellion, the Irish Civil War and the partitioning of Northern Ireland will be investigated. And finally to bring history to the present, the student will compare and contrast the British Army's role in Northern Island with that of the US Army's role in Iraq.
Open to: Grades 11 - 12
Level: College Prep
Course Duration: Second Semester
Prerequisite: Completed US History I and II
Instructor: Scott O'Connor
22) Modern Global Issues
Modern Global Issues explores the critical themes of the Post-Cold War world, examining trends in Independence, Globalization, the Middle East Crisis and Terrorism. Students will study how technology and globalization have impacted the world in the late 20th and early 21st century. Students will be expected to use online resources to research specific themes and create essays, presentations and videos to present to the class. Students will be required to consistently contribute to message board discussions and provide insightful and independent thoughts to instructor-directed debates.
COURSE UNITS
Unit 1: Cold War: The End and Its Impact
Unit 2: Globalization: Technology, Communication and the Shrinking World
Unit 3: Independence Movements: The Struggle for Freedom
Unit 4: The Middle East: Crisis and Conflict
Open to: Grades 9 - 12
Level: College Prep
Course Duration: First or Second Semester
Prerequisite: None
Instructor: Matt Brenneman
23) Sociology
Sociology is the study of human society and social interaction. Students will learn how people relate to one another and influence each other's behavior, gaining the ability to see the connection between the larger world and one's personal life. After an introductory unit on the development of this social science and the three main theoretical perspectives, topics will include education, culture, collective behavior, social class, gender, the American family, adolescence, crime and deviance, and prejudice and discrimination. Students will use a textbook and supplemental readings and view video clips and at least two "Hollywood" movies in this course. We'll ask questions like these: Why is there crime? What causes poverty? What is the difference between prejudice and discrimination? Are there common American values? Are women really paid less than men? Are American families truly "going to hell in a hand basket"? Are there "hidden agendas" in American education? In this elective course, students will be required to consistently contribute to message board discussions and provide thoughtful comments to the instructor. The ideal student likes social studies and/or is curious about answers to real social problems.
Open to: Grades 11 - 12
Level: College Prep
Course Duration: First Semester
Prerequisite: None
Instructor: Jeffrey Szymanski
24) U.S. History II - CANCELLED
This course covers American history from 1877-present. Students will analyze the causes and consequences of the Industrial Revolution and America's growing role on the world's stage. Students will study the goals and accomplishments of the Progressive movement, the squalor of the Great Depression and the successes and failures of FDR's New Deal. Participants will learn about the various factors that led to America's entry into World War II as well as the consequences of World War II on American life. Finally, the class will study the causes and course of the Cold War, as well as the major political and social changes of the 1960's. These will include the Civil Rights movement, Vietnam, and the "hippie" counterculture. Lastly, recent events and trends that have shaped modern-day America will be examined. The course is student-centered and has been designed around the Massachusetts Social Studies frameworks to suit the needs and interests of many learners. Individual web-based assignments, projects, primary and secondary readings, music, literature, video clips, discussion boards and research will be some of the major methods of instruction. This course will fulfill credit recovery.
Open to: All
Level: College Prep
Course Duration: Full Year
Prerequisite: None (preferably U.S. History I)
Instructor: Jessica Durdel
25) U.S. Politics & Media: The History of Campaigning - CANCELLED
When the Founders of our country formulated guiding principles of governance in the Constitution, they created only two nationally elected positions: the Presidency and the Vice Presidency. The first election was a staid, gentlemanly affair controlled by an elite. The election of our President has since evolved into a multi-million dollar, two-year minimum process of communicating to the electorate through mass media for the purposes of garnering votes. As the inclusiveness of voting franchise expanded, and political parties developed, the election process utilized tools of mass communication reflecting the technology of the age. This course will explore the evolution of presidential elections through primary sources that will include essays, pamphlets, editorials, political cartoons, speeches, debates, political advertisements, campaign websites, hats, balloons and buttons. Background reading will be assigned. Course units will include the development of political parties, Adams v. Jefferson, Jackson v. J.Q Adams, Kennedy v. Nixon and Obama v. McCain, with discussion of campaign finance and regulation. Skill emphasis will culminate in media literacy and an understanding of the persuasive powers of new media.
Open to: Grades 11 - 12
Level: Honors
Course Duration: Second Semester
Prerequisite: Two year of Social Studies
Instructor: Betsy Sugameli
26) Women in American Society: A Thematic History of Gender Inequality - CANCELLED
Throughout American History, a woman's role in society has been in constant transformation. Women's movements, along with other social reform campaigns, have challenged social norms though democratic activism. In this 18-week course, students will trace the roles of women in American society since the Age of Industrialism. Each unit within the course will focus on re-occurring themes that define the women's pursuit of gender equality. Students will examine both primary and secondary sources in order to recognize how the daily lives of ordinary women paved the path to reform. In addition to the advancements made towards gender equality, each unit will explore gender as it intersects with race, class, ethnicity, and religion. Students are expected to demonstrate advanced academic abilities and an active awareness of social issues.
Open to: Grades 11 - 12
Level: Honors
Course Duration: Second Semester
Prerequisite:Completed U.S. History I & II
Instructor: Maryann Ziemba
Technology:
27) Cybercrime and Security
This course is an exploration into the motives of cyber criminals, the means with which they cause harm, and how each user can help prevent himself or herself from becoming the next victim of various forms of cybercrime. Students will explore case studies, learn about preventative techniques and implement safety measures to protect themselves and their families. Topics will include the following and more: system and data, commercial and home networks, Malware, identity theft, browsing and email, social networking and cyber-bullying, E-commerce and banking, peer to peer networks and piracy, mobile devices, and ethics and legal issues.
Open to: Grades 11 - 12
Level: College Prep
Course Duration: First or Second Semester
Prerequisite: None
Instructor: Doug Scott
28) Introduction to Computer Science
The purpose of Introduction to Computer Science is to provide an introduction to the field of computer science. The course provides those students who are planning to study computer science with a solid foundation in the key concepts they will develop further in college. For others, it gives them the basic tools and knowledge to understand the science and engineering behind today's computer and information-oriented society. This is not a "programming course"; it is much broader than that. However, students who do not know how to program will learn, and those who already know will improve their skills.
Open to: (see prerequisite)
Level: Honors
Course Duration: First Semester
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra II
Instructor: Mark Holthouse
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