Mathematics and Computer Science (Cont.)

Introduction to Statistics (1 credit, full year)

Prerequisite: Fundamentals of Precalculus, Precalculus

12th

This elective course explores how to collect, display, interpret and analyze statistical data. The course centers around applying statistical methods to real-world issues with current data sets. In addition to traditional assessments, students will be expected to collaborate with their peers to design their own surveys, collect and analyze the results, and present their findings. Other topics covered include probability, displaying sampling distributions, confidence intervals, and testing hypotheses. Simulation software packages and other technology will assist in investigating large data sets.

Advanced Statistics (1 credit, full year)

Prerequisite: Honors Algebra 2, Precalculus, Honors Precalculus, Department permission required 10th, 11th, 12th

This course is an introduction to the major concepts of a college-level introductory course in statistics. Students will be expected to select methods for collecting and/or analyzing data for statistical inference, describe patterns, trends, associations, and relationships in data, explore random phenomena using probability and simulation, and develop an explanation or justify a conclusion using evidence from data, definitions, or statistical inference. Units include one and two-variable statistics, collecting data, probability and sampling distributions, and statistical inference for categorical and quantitative data. This course prepares students to take the AP Statistics Exam.

Global Online Academy: Computer Science I: Conceptual Thinking (0.5 credit, fall

Prerequisite: Honors Geometry, Algebra 2 or spring or summer)

Computational thinking centers on solving problems, designing systems, and understanding human behavior. It has applications not only in computer science but also myriad other fields of study. This introductory-level course focuses on thinking like a computer scientist, especially understanding how computer scientists define and solve problems. Students begin the course by developing an understanding of what computer science is, how it can be used by people who are not programmers, and why it’s a useful skill for all people to cultivate. Within this context, students are exposed to the power and limits of computational thinking. Students are introduced to entry-level programming constructs that help them apply their knowledge of computational thinking in practical ways. They learn how to read code and pseudocode as well as begin to develop strategies for debugging programs. By developing computational thinking and programming skills, students will have the core knowledge to define and solve problems in future computer science courses. While this course would be beneficial for any student without formal training as a programmer or computer scientist, it is intended for those with no programming experience.

Advanced Computer Science (1 credit, full year)

Prerequisite: Algebra 2/Trig, Department Permission Required

10th, 11th, 12th

This course, which uses the Java language, is designed to meet the requirements of the AP Exam.

Advanced 3D Modeling, Computer Aided Design & Manufacturing (0.5 credit, spring only)

Corequisite: Precalculus

10th, 11th, 12th

Coursework will cover introductory and advanced 3D modeling, introduction to simulation, manufacturing design principles, and project management. This course uses the open-source modeling software Autodesk Fusion 360 to create multifaceted designs. Students will explore real-world applications to devise models from an initial design to a final physical product. The projects will guide students through an exploration of computer science, mathematics, science, and engineering. Sample projects include developing mechanical components, creating full-scale blueprints of a modular house, and analyzing production output data to optimize efficiency. In addition, students will be given opportunities to gain skills and knowledge needed in the product development and manufacturing industry.

Introduction to Big Data Analytics (0.5 credit, fall only)

Prerequisite: Algebra 2/Trig

10th, 11th, 12th

Blending mathematics, statistics, and computer programming, this course provides an introduction to the emerging field of data science. Students will analyze large sets of data from areas such as the financial sector, retail sales, sports analytics, healthcare industry, and social networking platforms looking for patterns and trends. Using the opensource computer language R, students will identify regularities within a data set, exposing secrets and making original discoveries. Sample projects include gathering vast amounts of data about consumers to predict shopping habits and analyzing sports statistics to evaluate an athlete’s value and performance.

Episcopal believes that a comprehensive understanding of the scientific process provides a basis for decision-making and more responsible citizenship in an increasingly complex and technical world. Students are introduced to the fundamentals of physics in the ninth grade, followed by chemistry in the 10th grade, and biology in the 11th grade. Additionally, teachers incorporate skills, concepts, and problems that span a variety of scientific disciplines in their teaching. Episcopal students are expected to draw upon the skills, concepts, and content learned in prior science courses to further their understanding in subsequent courses. The laboratory component of each course is designed not as a supplement, but as an integral part of the program.

Graduation Requirement: 2 credits

Students are required to earn at least two credits in laboratory science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology), the last of which must be earned at EHS. Episcopal strongly encourages students to take more than two lab science credits, as many colleges expect students to have three or four science credits.

Physics (1 credit, full year)

9th

This Introductory course takes a conceptual approach to the understanding of physics and places emphasis on fundamental concepts and their applications to daily life. The focus of the first semester is on mechanics. Second semester topics include electricity, waves, sound, and light. Frequent hands-on activities and group work including both qualitative and quantitative laboratory experiments, demonstrations and problem solving characterize class time.

Conceptual Physics (1 credit, full year)

Corequisite: Algebra 1

9th

This Introductory course is designed for students enrolled in Algebra 1. The course takes a conceptual approach to the understanding of physics and places emphasis on fundamental concepts and their applications to daily life. The first semester begins with a discussion of waves, sound, and light. Then the course continues with the study of mechanics. Mathematical problem solving is introduced at an appropriate level. Frequent hands-on activities and group work including both qualitative and quantitative laboratory experiments, demonstrations and problem solving characterize class time. The goal is to connect principles with everyday experiences.

Intermediate Physics (1 credit, full year)

11th, 12th

This course is a survey of many topics that comprise the study of basic science and Physics: measurement, experimental design, data collection and analysis, mechanics, energy, sound, electricity, magnetism, and light. The presentation is complemented by a mathematical component at an appropriate level supported by demonstrations and hands-on lab, study, and projects. The goal is to connect principles with everyday experiences.

Advanced Physics 1 (1 credit, full year)

Pre-requisite: Completion of Honors Algebra 2 Trig or Precalculus or higher math course or co-enrolled in Honors Precalculus or higher. Expectations in this course include a grade of 95 in their previous regular science course or evidence of success in Honors- or Advanced-level science courses, active participation in class, and demonstrated ability to work independently and with others in a variety of classroom situations. Department permission required.

11th, 12th

This course serves as a physics survey and as a proper introduction for those who may go on to further technical studies in college. The course covers many of the same areas as an introductory physics course focusing on mechanics, however the approach is more analytical and makes free use of algebra and trigonometry. Frequent laboratory experiments are an important component of the class.