Curriculum Guide: 2018-19

XAVIER

H I G H

S C H O O L

Curriculum Guide 2018–2019

TABLE OF CONTENTS Religion. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 English. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Modern and Classical Languages. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Mathematics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Science. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Fine Arts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Computer Science & Technology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Military Science. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Health & Physical Education. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Guidance Department Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Founded in 1847, Xavier High School is an academically rigorous, Catholic, Jesuit, college preparatory school in New York City that educates intelligent, motivated young men of diverse backgrounds and means. Xavier teaches students to take responsibility for their lives, to lead with integrity, to act justly in service of others, to pursue excellence in every endeavor and to deepen their relationship with God. Ultimately, Xavier forms young men who will go forth to transform the world for God’s greater glory.

RELIGION Introduction to Scripture: Encountering God’s Word (1 credit) The goal of freshman religion at Xavier is for students to understand and appreciate that, through their participation in the Catholic community’s worship, prayer, and activity for love and justice, they encounter the same dramatic and saving grace of God that was present to our Jewish ancestors and that is present in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The course begins with an exploration of how the abundance of meaning found in myths, stories, and rituals in the Judeo-Christian tradition makes present again God’s saving actions in history. During first semester, students will read selections from the Old Testament, beginning with the stories of the Patriarchs and Exodus, the defining experiences of the Israelites when they experienced God’s saving, covenantal love in historical events. Students will then explore how the Israelites worked to remain faithful to the covenant through the leadership of the kings and prophets. Throughout the second semester, students will turn their learning to the New Testament, with priority given to the Gospels, so that they may grapple with God’s definitive revelation of saving grace in the person of Jesus Christ, and what it means to have been baptized into Christ’s death in order to rise with him.

Discipleship: Responding to Christ’s Call (1 credit) The aim of this course is to introduce the sophomore student to the community of disciples through the rich tradition of the Church and to invite him to bring those traditions into his own personal experience of Christian discipleship. By critically examining the witness of significant disciples of different ages, the student will be invited to reflect critically on his own call to discipleship in light of the tension between the values of the Gospel and our contemporary world. An exploration of the Church, prayer, and moral decision-making will further support the student’s reflection and analysis of how he is called to respond to God’s activity in the world today.

Theology and Ethics (1 credit) By critically engaging with theological and moral questions of enduring significance, this course challenges the junior student to become more intentional at living out and reflecting upon how to be a faithful disciple in our contemporary world. Utilizing faith and reason, the student will be invited to reflect on his capacity to make God’s love present in the world and recognize that he needs to make a concrete decision to be an active, informed agent for personal and social change. The course will critically explore a variety of contemporary moral issues that highlight the tensions between the Gospel and Western values and culture. When exploring these issues, students will be challenged to develop a personal, informed, conscious perspective on these issues. To become informed, engaged moral agents, students will learn to analyze the social complexities of moral issues that will build a foundation for a more rigorous examination of justice issues in senior year.

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Social Justice (½ credit) As the required first semester course for each senior, Social Justice builds on the foundations of the first three years of religious education. This course explores social justice as a fundamental dimension of Christian discipleship in today’s world. The themes of this course are a natural extension of the theological, philosophical, moral, and social concerns studied throughout the junior religious education course. Informed by faith in Jesus Christ, the biblical vision of justice, and Catholic social teaching, this course will explore “the service of faith and the promotion of justice” as rooted in the dignity of human persons called to community and solidarity with one another, most especially for and with the poor.

Seniors must select one of the following religion courses for the second semester elective: Christian Ethics on War and Peace (½ credit) How does a Christian respond to the reality of violent conflict in the world? This semester elective will explore the two threads of the Christian tradition: just war theory and peacebuilding.

The student will explore the global impact and Christian understanding of war and peace in dialogue with interreligious perspectives, with particular emphasis on holy war, pacifism, active nonviolence, and just war theory. Attention will be paid to efforts for humanitarian intervention, conflict resolution, and reconciliation efforts in light of the challenges of contemporary warfare faced in the 20th and 21st centuries. The student will be invited to engage in a final project in which he dialogues with the work of nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) or grassroots organizations focused on peace.

Philosophical Foundations of Christian Thought (½ credit) This is an introductory philosophy course that will trace the development of Christian thought from the foundations of ancient Greek philosophy to the development of medieval and modern philosophy. Focusing on metaphysics and epistemology, key themes will include the problem of existence, the God question, the problem of evil, and ethical thinking. Particular emphasis will be placed on Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle as Augustine and Aquinas use them and their philosophy to explain Christianity.

Other philosophers we will discuss include Descartes, Kierkegaard, and Nietzsche. Students should expect challenging primary source readings and frequent essays as preparation for taking college level philosophy courses.

Ignatian Perspectives (½ credit) What will you take with you from your 4 years at Xavier? How can you make choices that deliberately build character and integrity?

What can you do with questions that seem to defy answers, and how do you draw meaning from your experiences – good and bad? This course will explore how Ignatius’ experiences and discernment methods are still relevant today and help you to refine your own approach to answer these and similar questions.

Like St. Ignatius’ Spiritual Exercises, the approach will be primarily Christ-centered; but any student comfortable with Christianity will be welcome to join in the process of self-reflection and adapting Ignatius’ perspectives for themselves. Expect this reflection process to involve writing assignments and a generous investment of your time in exploring your own experience.

World Religions (½ credit) This semester elective will explore how the Catholic Church recognizes and values the respective truth found in the world’s religions through interreligious dialogue. The student will be introduced to the nature and philosophy of the worldviews of various religious traditions, namely those of Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, and Islam. The student will explore the elements of each religion and the ways in which human persons have experienced the presence of the sacred and sought to comprehend the mystery of life. Attention will be given to various rituals and traditions associated with each religion alongside a comparative evaluation of how each comes to understand the unique roles of the divine, human nature, and our shared search for meaning. The student will be asked to engage in a major synthesis project that requires a visit to a place of worship from a religious tradition not his own.

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ENGLISH English 9 (1 credit)

English 10 Honors (1 credit)

In the first year of English study at Xavier, students begin with an intensive writing curriculum in the first quarter in which they will practice the art of writing. Students will read exemplary essays and writing samples – description, reflection, narration, argumentation, exposition, and analysis – and will write essays and short pieces in these modes of writing. Writing instruction is complemented by the study of grammar (particularly parts of speech, proper sentence structure, and agreement). In subsequent quarters, students will read widely across genres which will include the short story, poetry, and the novel. This course has multiple aims: to enable students to become confident and proficient readers; to develop and hone critical thinking skills through discussion and literary analysis; to fashion and foster one’s analytical and creative voice through the written and spoken word. Vocabulary is taught and reinforced both within the context of the literature at hand and also through study of commonly occurring words for academic and reading proficiency. Students will learn how to approach literary analysis by studying various longer texts which may include: Fahrenheit 451 (Bradbury), The Book Thief (Zusak), The Catcher in the Rye (Salinger) and Of Mice and Men (Steinbeck).

Students will also begin their four year study of Shakespeare with an intensive reading and analysis of Romeo & Juliet.

This course will enhance the literary studies begun in freshman year with a specific focus on British Literature. The students’ composition, vocabulary, and reading skills will be developed further, and the instructor will teach critical reading and writing with a pre-AP focus. English 10 Honors students will do more frequent and lengthier writing and reading assignments and more complex analysis of texts than the students in English 10.

English 10 Honors also requires independent research and in-class presentations. Some assigned texts will be the same as those in English 10 since this is also a British Literature class, however, there will be several texts that are different from or in addition to the list of texts that the English 10 students will be reading.

English 9 Honors (1 credit) All freshman students admitted to the Ignatian Scholars Honors Program will be enrolled in English 9 Honors. Students will begin with an intensive writing program, and critically challenging reading and writing assignments will be geared toward developing Pre-AP thinking and writing skills featuring literary and rhetorical analysis.

Students will study grammar topics related to writing clearly and powerfully. Students will be assigned to read more texts than the students in English 9, including a second Shakespearean play.

English 10 (1 credit) This course provides an overview of the British canon in literature from Anglo-Saxon times to the present. Texts will include selections from Beowulf and The Canterbury Tales, and full-length works, including Shakespeare’s Macbeth, Frankenstein (Shelley), and Never Let Me Go (Ishiguro). In addition, students will study numerous pieces of short fiction, non-fiction, and poetry from across the various literary movements in British Literature. Students will continue to develop their skills in expository, analytical, and argumentative writing, their understanding and implementation of the rules of grammar, and their study of vocabulary for enhancement of critical reading and comprehension.

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English 11 (1 credit) English 11 is an American Literature survey course in which students examine the literary features of a broad range of American literature from colonial times to the present. Texts are placed in the context of the time period and literary movements that have shaped American literature over the years. Texts include various American short stories, poetry, documents, and speeches, and long works may include Death of a Salesman (Miller), Adventures of Huckleberry Finn (Twain), and The Great Gatsby (Fitzgerald). Students continue their encounter with Shakespeare with an intensive reading of Othello.

Writing advances in difficulty and expectation as students learn to place their own literary analysis in the context of the views of other critical studies. Grammar studies continue in the junior year both to improve student writing and to enhance proficiency in light of college entrance exam expectations. Deliberate study of vocabulary continues in the junior year to enhance student reading comprehension.

AP English Lang. & Composition (1 credit) The study of American Literature forms the background of this course, and some of the texts will be common to the English 11 course list; however, the AP course is primarily a college-level study of rhetoric and writing. The course engages students in becoming skilled readers of prose, mainly non-fiction, from a variety of literary periods, disciplines, and rhetorical contexts.

Students will focus on becoming skilled writers who compose for a variety of purposes. Frequent writing and reading tasks will make students aware of the interactions among a writer’s purposes, an audience’s expectations, and the writer’s subject, as well as the way conventions in writing and the resources of language contribute to effectiveness in writing. Special attention will be devoted to development of voice and style in writing.

Seniors must select one of the following English elective pairings (Unless taking AP Lit. and Composition): Pairing #1: Shakespeare: The Man and His World & Irish Literature and Culture Pairing #2: Modernism: “Make it New!” & Imprisonment in Literature Pairing #3: Surviving: True and Unbelievable Stories & Soldiers’ Stories Pairing #4: Sympathy for the Grotesque & New York Literature: The Dream, The Grit, and The Grind Pairing #5: The Rise and Reign of the Antihero: 1963-2017 & Dread, Angst, and the Battle Against Oblivion Pairing #6: Voices of the Harlem Renaissance & The Dream Deferred

Pairing #1 Shakespeare: The Man and His World (½ credit) To build on the foundation already established in the freshman through junior years -- a knowledge and appreciation of William Shakespeare, the man and the writer -- the student will engage in an in-depth look at Elizabethan London, writings from Shakespeare’s contemporaries, and close readings of two plays by Shakespeare, a tragedy and a comedy, as well as several sonnets.

The overall goal of the course is that by immersing the student in intensive study and discussion of Shakespeare’s language, themes and characters, he will be able to make connections among the timeless universal truths that motivate all human beings regardless of time or place. Texts to include: Shakespeare: The World as Stage (Bryson), King Lear and Twelfth Night, and supplemental articles, poems and essays.

Irish Literature and Culture (½ credit) That so small a country, Ireland, has produced such literary powerhouses as Joyce, Swift, Heaney and Doyle deserves a semester of in-depth reading, writing, and discussion. Ireland has been called “a terrible beauty” and the writers that hail from her shores have spent countless hours and many pages exploring this intense paradox. In this elective we will look not only at this but at questions that connect us across ethnic, religious, and societal divides: What is it to love one’s country? Where does love end and fanaticism begin? How can one recover from loss of identity and love? Where can we find beauty and happiness in the most mundane corners of life? One does not have to be Irish to engage in these conversations and appreciate these funny, sad, and brilliant writers! We will also enjoy a delving into Irish culture that will include looking at Irish immigration in New York, Irish food, music and folklore. Authors to include: James Joyce, Roddy Doyle, Colum McCann, Jonathan Swift, Seamus Heaney and Claire Keegan. Walking tour of the New York Irish experience, Irish step dancers, seeing a play at the Irish Rep, and enjoying Irish delicacies are some of the encounters included in this course.

Pairing #2 Modernism: “Make it New!” (½ credit) The tumultuousness of World War I fostered a new class of artists and writers who were disillusioned with the technological advances of warfare that took annihilation and destruction to new heights. Modernist writers destroyed conventions and championed each individual’s perception of his world. This class will explore the roots of Modernist literature, beginning with Ezra Pound and tracing the trajectory of modernism as it forever altered the literary landscape. We will examine the writers and artists who broke with tradition, embraced change, and created a new way to envision the world. We will read works by T.S. Eliot, Virginia Woolf, E.E. Cummings, Eugene O’Neill, Gertrude Stein and Ernest Hemingway. We will also look at works by Picasso, Braques, Brancusi, and other artists, who worked alongside the modernist authors to depict our world in unprecedented ways.

Imprisonment in Literature (½ credit) This class spans both fiction and nonfiction to explore the function and impact of prisons on our society. We begin by examining how laws, prisons, and the judicial system work to keep certain segments of the population captive. In The Handmaid’s Tale, a totalitarian government imprisons all of its women in order to facilitate repopulation after a cataclysmic environmental disaster.

This dystopian novel slyly and subtly reflects shifts in our own society with the advent of computerized banking and surveillance.

We shift gears with Just Mercy, a nonfiction account of Bryan Stevenson’s work on behalf of prisoners, which powerfully examines the shattering effect of imprisonment on individuals and their families. The use of laws to criminalize behavior will be illuminated by shorter works including Oscar Wilde’s The Ballad of Reading Gaol and Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Letter from Birmingham Jail. This course concludes with a close reading of The Tempest, where we will ponder the thesis posed by Northrop Frye: the possibility of bring(ing) forth again the island that the world has been searching for since the dawn of history, the island that is both nature and human society restored to their original form, where there is no sovereignty and yet where all of us are kings.”

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Pairing #3 Surviving: True and Unbelievable Stories (½ credit)

Pairing #4 Sympathy for the Grotesque (½ credit)

What does it take to survive? How do writers of tales (or true accounts) of extreme adversity approach their stories in ways that best define and illuminate personal grit? In this course students will read pieces that deal with adversity – both internal and external – brought about by nature, by human interactions, by addiction or mental illness. Seminar-style classes will allow for in depth discussion of Cormac McCarthy’s post-apocalyptic novel, The Road, non-fiction accounts of survival such as Krakauer’s Into Thin Air, Junger’s The Perfect Storm, selections from memoirs and documentary film accounts of survival such as Twelve Years a Slave (Northup), Man’s Search for Meaning (Frankl), and Finding Home, plus articles and talks by Elyn Saks, Sherwin Nuland, and others. All works studied will aim to illuminate and inform our understanding of the human will to survive and the questions people must consider when faced with extreme adversity.

Although the word grotesque is often used colloquially to signify something hideous or terrifying, what makes grotesque characters so fascinating in literature is the empathy they evoke from the reader. Although not always good, or easy to love, grotesque characters, because of their innate humanity, make us feel. They are present in Victorian novels and Souther gothic short stories.

Frankenstein’s monster, Count Dracula, and Gregor Samsa of “The Metamorphosis”, are all examples of the grotesque. In this class, we will explore examples of the grotesque from different periods and genres and countries to ask the questions: what makes something or someone grotesque, and, ultimately, what makes him or her human as well? Authors will include Bram Stoker, Emily Bronte, Franz Kafka, Fryodor Dostoyevsky, Nikolai Gogol, Ralph Ellison, Flannery O’Connor, Sherwood Anderson, George Saunders, and Junot Diaz. Major Works: Dracula, by Bram Stoker; Wuthering Heights, by Emily Bronte; Invisible, by Ralph Ellison; The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao, by Junot Diaz.

Soldiers’ Stories (½ credit) Honor. Glory. Freedom. Young men and women serve in the military for a host of reasons, and every year soldiers transition back to civilian life. Much has been written by and about soldiers at war and returning from war. In this course we will delve into soldiers’ stories – their experience of war and experience of coming back from war. Students will read Redeployment (Klay), All My Sons (Miller), American Sniper (Kyle), Thank You For Your Service (Finkel) and short works and selections by Tim O’Brien, Robert Graves, Brian Turner, Wilfred Owen and others. Students will also evaluate dramatic film and documentary film depictions of soldiers’ stories. Films may include Restrepo, Hell and Back Again, and The Hurt Locker.

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New York Literature: The Dream, The Grit, and The Grind (½ credit) Of all the qualities that New York demands of its citizens, grit is arguably the most vital. New York is a massive city made up of eight million people, each striving for success in his or her own way, so in a lot of ways the odds are stacked against the individual.

Yet even against such long odds, what brings people here is the promise of achievement when one is willing to put in the work. In this class, we’ll explore the difficult process of making it in New York. Through works by writers such as James Baldwin, Joan Didion, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Langston Hughes, Bernard Malamud, Edith, Wharton, E.B. White, and Colson Whitehead, we’ll explore the ways that the New York grind can either wear a person down or build him or her up. We will also compare characters from literature with characters from films, such as: Do the Right Thing, A Bronx Tale, Whiplash, and Taxi Driver.

Pairing #5 The Rise and Reign of the Antihero: 1963-2017 (½ credit) Our current fascination—indeed, obsession—with protagonists who bend and sometimes even break the rules raises important questions about what our society values. This course will trace the timeliness and popularity of the antihero, from 1950s gendered Americana, to super-antiheroes like the Dark Knight, to a contemporary critique of jock culture. Texts include Sylvia Plath’s The Bell Jar, and Frank Miller’s The Dark Knight Returns, Ta-Nehisi Coates’s Black Panther, and Gabe Habash’s Stephen Florida. Students will be charged with charting the development of an antihero/heroine from historical catalyst to literary response.

Classes will be comprised of seminar-style critical reading sessions, character analyses, presentations, and debates.

Dread, Angst, and he Battle Against Oblivion (½ credit) Being a Man for Others is what Xavier instills in its students, and within its walls, this value is paramount, but how do young men committed to social justice confront a world in which morality is consistently challenged? This seminar-style class will focus on an intertextual discourse between texts previously encountered at Xavier pertaining to religion and ethics (including Frankl, Kant, Aristotle, and Mill) and works that deconstruct our notions of right and wrong, just and unjust. Can we find values in the void, or are these works black holes? How has Xavier equipped you to contend with the omnipresent assault on meaning in these texts?

Texts include Cormac McCarthy’s Blood Meridian, Han Kang’s Human Acts, and listening sessions dedicated to studying albums

by Nirvana, Joy Division, Ice-T, and Sly Stone.

Pairing #6 Voices of the Harlem Renaissance (½ credit) Rising out of the ashes of slavery, reconstruction, and the Industrial Revolution, the Harlem Renaissance was at the forefront of the African-American experience. This important movement was born from a theory created by philosopher, professor, and essayist Alain Locke, who believed in the reinvention and redefinition of the Negro in 20th century America. Literature, the arts, and music were essential to this rebirth, and the first semester examines contributions from key African-Americans of the time in order to understand this new vision. Essential to the landscape of New York City history, this course also seeks to discover the importance of identity, culture, and self-determination. Selected works include poems by Claude McKay and Countee Cullen, Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston, Langston Hughes’ Not Without Laughter, and Nella Larsen’s Quicksand which will culminate in a final project by each student.

The Dream Deferred (½ credit) Taken from the Langston Hughes poem of the same name, the second semester focuses on the dreamers of African-American literature: the protagonists who dream and the prices they pay for their dreams. Through the study of these characters and the writers who immortalize them, this course considers and investigates themes regarding knowledge of self, the African-American family structure, the complexity of power, and the evolution of race relations in the United States. This course will also study the impact of these works on the African-American community and its development into the 21st century. Selections will include Lorraine Hansberry’s A Raisin in the Sun, James Baldwin’s The Fire Next Time, Toni Morrison’s Song of Solomon, August Wilson’s Fences, and Ta-Nehisi Coates’ Between The World and Me.

Creative Writing (1 credit) This course will serve to expand the student’s powers of observation, imagination and language through exposing him to various forms of creative writing, reading and analyzing a variety of well-respected fiction writers and developing the student’s own creative voice through rigorous writing assignments. Creative Writing is an additional elective and must be taken with a pair of English electives or AP English Literature & Composition.

Journalism (1 credit) This introductory course to journalism and news-writing will emphasize critical reading, thinking, and writing along with the ethics and responsibilities of journalists. The course will cover many journalistic writing styles and we will look at techniques for gathering, evaluating, using, and citing sources and conducting interviews. We will also explore print, digital, and web-based publications and the use of photography in journalism. Journalism is an additional elective and must be taken with a pair of English electives or AP English Literature & Composition.

AP English Lit. & Composition (1 credit) This program is offered to students of proven ability and performance who wish to pursue a college-level literature course.

Writing assignments focus on the critical analysis of literature as well as essays in exposition and argument. Readings will represent several genres and periods and may include works by Austen, Bronte, Dante, Greene, McCarthy, Morrison, Shakespeare, and Waugh. Emphasis will be on close reading and intensive study of representational works of literary merit. In addition, students will examine critical views of the works they are studying and learn how to situate their reading and analysis of the literature among the voices and views of contemporary critics.

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HISTORY Global Studies 1 (1 credit)

Modern U.S. and World History (1 credit)

The freshman year course investigates the ancient through medieval histories of the Near East, Africa, Greece, Rome, Europe, India and the Far East. History is surveyed from the dawn of civilization to the European Renaissance. By studying the geography, society, government, economy, and philosophy of different regions, students gain an understanding of the diversity of human culture and learn the underpinnings of Eastern and Western civilization.

This course will survey the history of the world and the United States since World War II. The course will begin with a study of economics and how it has impacted history. The course will enable students to understand contemporary events in the context of recent history. Students will use primary and secondary sources to analyze long term issues and events such as World War II, The Cold War, The Vietnam War, Middle Eastern conflicts, the end of colonialism, the rise of new nation states, modern technological developments, the rise of pandemics such as AIDS, civil rights struggles in the United States, the rise of fundamentalism and international terrorism, and recent developments in American politics, society and culture. This will be a writing intensive course and will include a term research paper.

Global Studies 1 Honors (1 credit) All freshman students admitted to the Ignatian Scholars honors program will enroll in Global Studies 1 Honors. The structure of this course is similar to Global Studies 1. Students in this course can expect more writing assignments and will be held to a higher standard on these. This is an accelerated and pre-AP course, so the students can expect a heavier workload compared to Global Studies 1.

Global Studies 2 (1 credit) This is a world history survey course that continues the study begun in freshman year. It opens with the Renaissance of Europe and the development of Western civilization, the Protestant Reformation, the Catholic Counter-Reformation, the Commercial Revolution, the Age of Discovery, the Industrial Revolution, and the impact of Imperialism. The class traces the effect of the struggles and establishment of modern nationalism on all the continents to enable students to have a clearer understanding of the complexities of the modern world.

AP World History (1 credit) This college-level course in world history focuses on the period from 10,000 B.C. to the present. Students in the course will examine the impact of interaction among major societies, the impact of technology on people and the environment, changes in the structures and functions of nations and states, systems of social structure and gender structure, and cultural and intellectual developments throughout the world. Students will master various methods that modern historians use to evaluate and interpret historical documents. Students are expected to take the Advanced Placement Examination in World History at the conclusion of the course and may earn college credits through this exam.

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AP United States History (1 credit) This is a college level course in American History. Students will gain a strong grounding in the facts surrounding important events in United States History. They will also learn to read historical material analytically and critically, to weigh historical evidence and interpretations and to arrive at conclusions on the basis of informed judgments. The student will be expected to acquire knowledge of primary sources as well as their use, to interpret maps, statistical tables, and graphic materials. Students are expected to take the Advanced Placement Examination in United States History at the conclusion of the course and may earn college credits through this exam.

AP Comparative Gov. & Politics (1 credit) This college-level course introduces students to the fundamental concepts used by political scientists to study the processes and outcomes of politics in a variety of country settings. This course aims to communicate to students the importance of global political and economic changes. It explores the major concepts that are used to organize and interpret what we know about political phenomena and relationships through an emphasis on specific countries and their governments including China, Great Britain, Iran, Mexico, Nigeria and Russia. The political system of the United States will also be covered as a point of comparison. In addition, students will sharpen their oral, analytical and writing skills.

AP European History (1 credit) This is a college level course in European History. This course will uncover the history of Europe from the Renaissance to the present.

In this course, students will examine how Europe was transformed from the “medieval” to the “modern” over the course of one thousand years. Students will investigate the social, economic, political and military movements that have come to define Europe.

Attention will be given to artistic and literary movements.

AP United States Gov. & Politics (1 credit) This is a college level course which will give students an analytical perspective on government and politics in the United States.

This course includes both the study of general concepts used to interpret U.S. government and politics and the analysis of specific examples. It also requires familiarity with the various institutions, groups, beliefs, and ideas that constitute U.S. government and politics. Students successfully completing this course will know important facts, concepts, and theories pertaining to U.S. government and politics, understand typical patterns of political processes and behavior and their consequences, be able to analyze and interpret basic data relevant to U.S. government and politics, be able to critically analyze relevant theories and concepts, apply them appropriately, and develop their connections across the curriculum. In addition, students will sharpen their oral, analytical and writing skills.

American Civil Rights & the World’s Human Rights (1 credit) This is a two part course with the first semester exploring the history of the search for civil rights in America and the second semester course exploring the role the United States has played in cases of major human rights violations during the 20th and 21st centuries. After an exploration of civil rights—their substance, meaning and origin, the course will examine the African American fight for civil rights in the United States beginning with the struggle to end slavery and continuing through the modern civil rights movement in the United States. Original source documents, commentary, film and the arts will form the basis for our exploration. Readings will range from the founding documents of the nation—the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution-- to Martin Luther King’s Long Walk to Freedom.

Among others we will explore the work of John Courtney Murray, S.J. ’20, as well as the more recent writing of Cornel West, Derrick Bell, James Cone and Brian Purnell ’96. While the focus will be on the African-American search for civil rights, some attention will be paid to other movements including women’s suffrage and the ERA, as well as the gay rights movement to more deeply explore the concept of rights and the complexities of different movements.

The purpose of the human rights course is to provide students with the intellectual framework for understanding the numerous and complex geopolitical issues related to genocide and the debates surrounding its study as well as present day violations of human rights and potential genocides. An examination of several major cases of genocide post-1948 (Cambodia, Iraq, Rwanda, Balkan Peninsula, Darfur & Syria) will provide the foundation for comparative analysis and the exploration of universal questions relating to human rights and their gross violation. Students will also read accounts of the personal experience of genocide and why the international community, including the United States, found it so difficult to adequately respond. Ultimately students will formulate answers to the questions: How can or should the United States government respond to humanitarian crises and who has the power to affect change when governments fail to protect their people?

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MODERN AND CLASSICAL LANGUAGES FOREIGN LANGUAGE REQUIREMENT:

Italian 1 (1 credit)

1. Students are required to take a 3-year sequence (3 years of the same language) in a foreign language at Xavier. The fourth level of the language may be taken as an elective.

The main goal of this course is to provide students with the basic structures of the Italian language that will enable them to understand, speak, write and read about a variety of topics related to everyday life in Italy. They will study the present tense, basic grammatical rules, and acquire vocabulary relating to school, family, food, travel and home. Students will develop these skills through speaking and listening exercises, dialogues, group work, and assessments such as projects, homework, quizzes and tests.

Students will also receive an overview of Italy’s culture, traditions, history and way of life.

2. Students who begin a second language in junior year are required to continue the second level of this language in senior year. Choices for a second language include Spanish 1, French 1, Italian 1, Latin 1, and Arabic 1.

Spanish 1/Spanish 1 Honors (1 credit) This course is designed to introduce students to the Spanish language. Students will develop an understanding of grammar concepts as well as knowledge of vocabulary and culture.

Students are expected to speak, read, and write in Spanish as much as possible. By the end of the year, students will have begun to possess the skills necessary to express themselves on a variety of topics in the target language.

Spanish 2/Spanish 2 Honors (1 credit) This course is designed to strengthen students’ understanding of grammar concepts as well as their knowledge of vocabulary and culture. Students are expected to speak, read, and write in Spanish.

By the end of the year, students will have the skills necessary to express themselves on a variety of topics in the target language.

Spanish 3/Spanish 3 Honors (1 credit) This course is a comprehensive continuation of the two previous Spanish courses. Through an in-depth analysis of the language, this course completes the presentation of Spanish grammar, while at the same time emphasizing reading, writing and oral skills.

Spanish 4 (1 credit) Spanish 4 is designed to be an overall review and expansion of the basic skills of Spanish. It is intended, through an in-depth examination of grammar, to increase accuracy and consistency in reading, listening, and writing, and to develop oral proficiency.

Students read newspaper articles, literary selections, and practice letter-writing skills. Spanish and/or Latin-American films may be studied in order to introduce cultural themes and to reinforce vocabulary in context.

AP Spanish 4 (1 credit) This is an intensive course of study designed to provide the factual knowledge, and the reading and writing proficiency needed for success in the Spanish AP Language Exam. Through a wide variety of written and oral assignments, as well as various reading selections, the students are not only trained to read, write, and speak the language in preparation for the exam, but also to master the skills that would allow them to successfully interact in a Spanish-speaking country.

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Italian 2 (1 credit) Italian 2 builds on the lessons learned in Italian 1. The lessons follow the logical sequence of grammatical topics in the text and workbook as well as introducing additional vocabulary and exercise provided by a variety or supplementary material. The students are also exposed to the rich culture of Italy via various methods such as discussions and films based on topics ranging from contemporary life in Italy to Italian social customs and traditions.

Italian 3 (1 credit) Italian 3 is designed to build upon the material presented in the two previous years with particular care given to the introduction and application of the subjunctive mood. In preparation for Italian 4 and AP Italian, Italy’s cultural and historical relevance is presented and discussed as well as the social customs, traditions and issues affecting its current society.

Italian 4 (1 credit) Italian 4 concludes the language sequence by recapitulating the student’s experience in terms of detailed syntax, lexical precision, and focus exercises that enhance previous learning and prepare the student for a practical and immediate use of the language in accordance with departmental expectations for the fourth year.

AP Italian 4 (1 credit) This is an intensive course which emphasizes knowledge of the current culture of Italian society while providing the language skills needed for success in the Italian AP Language Exam. Students will receive preparation in the four major areas of language acquisition (reading, writing, listening, speaking).

French 1 (1 credit)

Latin 2 (1 credit)

The focus of this course is the integration of the four skills – reading, writing, listening, and speaking – that are involved in mastering another language. Students will develop these skills by means of activities such as speaking and listening exercises, dialogues and group work, and assessments such as projects, homework, quizzes and tests. Students will learn a wide range of vocabulary as well as the present and the immediate future of verbs in French 1. In addition, a French 1 student will learn about the cultures and major monuments of different French speaking countries. He will critically examine the similarities and differences between his culture and those of various French-speaking countries, thereby informing his own global perspective.

Latin 2 continues the traditional Classical Latin curriculum with the introduction of the subjunctive mood and its multiple uses in independent and dependent clauses, as well as the use of participles (e.g. ablative absolutes), temporal, concessive, causal, and hypothetical clauses. Again, repetition and review of previous grammar, together with intensive practice of the new, will prepare the student not only for this level’s requisites, but, more importantly, for the more serious and challenging Latin 3 course. The National Latin Exam is offered to all students enrolled in this course.

French 2 (1 credit) This course is a continuation of French 1 with increased emphasis on the skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The skills are honed with the aid of various readings, poems, short stories, and other appropriate texts. Culture and geography of the nation and its neighbors are also stressed.

French 3 (1 credit) In French 3, the skills from the previous two years of study are maintained and improved. Analysis of the language grows in complexity within French 3, and familiarity with French contemporary society is broadened by various readings in the areas of history, literature, contemporary social and political structures, and everyday life.

French 4 (1 credit) In the fourth year students are expected to become familiar with the history, literature, and art of the French people over the centuries. In addition, structures are reviewed as necessary.

The focus is on the reading of various selections. Questions and answers concerning the readings are in French. The various cultural, philosophical and religious aspects of these works are explored. Films are used whenever possible to help students understand further a particular historical period or to visualize a literary work.

Latin 3 (1 credit) Having acquired knowledge of the morphosyntactics of first and second year Latin, in the Latin 3 course the student will be able to encounter and develop: a mastery of declensions and conjugations, the ability to recognize the logical and grammatical parts of a Latin text, and finally recognize the syntactic organization of studied subordinate clauses of the gerund and gerundive constructs and the passive periphrastic. The National Latin Exam is offered to all students enrolled in this course.

Arabic 1 (1 credit) Designed to give incentive and advantage for students to continue Arabic and Middle Eastern studies in college, Arabic 1 duplicates college-level Elementary Arabic with mastery of the alphabet (both print and cursive), the basic grammar of Modern Standard Arabic, reading proficiency, basic conversational skills, and the culture/history of the Middle East. All participants must meet with Dr. Caliendo before final registration. There is no guarantee that Arabic will fit in the junior year schedule. Priority will be given to seniors.

Latin 1 (1 credit) Xavier’s Latin 1 course follows the traditional curriculum for Classical Latin learning, with emphasis on vocabulary, grammar and syntax for immediate reading comprehension. The course includes all declensions, special case uses (e.g. accusative of extent, genitive/ablative of description), conjugations (active and passive indicative), infinitives and deponent and irregular verbs, pronouns, adjectives/adverbs and comparison, and numerals.

Repetition and review, moreover, are constant, keeping previous learning on par with newly acquired skills. Various aspects of Roman culture are presented, particularly mythology and Roman heroes and legends, both within the text and with assigned reading. The National Latin Exam is offered to all students enrolled in this course.

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MATHEMATICS Algebra 1 (1 credit)

Algebra 2/Trigonometry Honors (1 credit)

This course begins with students understanding the language of algebra. The first half of the course then progresses into examining real numbers, polynomials, factoring, and concludes with the understanding of linear equations and inequalities through solving, analyzing, and graphing their relations. The latter half seeks to apply and build upon these fundamental skills, focusing on quadratic functions and both exponential and radical expressions and equations. The course will also explore data display and analysis.

This course provides a more intensive and extensive focus on the topics covered in the regular Algebra 2/Trigonometry course. This course aims to prepare students for a higher level Calculus course.

An emphasis on inquiry based learning allows students to acquire knowledge through investigation and discovery.

Algebra 1 Honors (1 credit) Incoming freshman students are admitted to Algebra 1 Honors based on their performance on the mathematics placement examination taken in the spring prior to their freshman year.

This course is very similar to Algebra 1, but typically moves at an accelerated pace, allowing the instructor to cover concepts with greater depth. An emphasis on inquiry based learning allows students to acquire knowledge through investigation and discovery. This method encourages students to use and hone their critical thinking skills to deepen their understanding of the mathematics and the appropriate application.

Geometry (1 credit) This course is for sophomores who have successfully completed the Algebra 1 course as freshmen. The course will focus on two dimensional space and the relationships between the figures within that space. Students will be taught how to develop and explain conclusions based on given information, logical reasoning and geometric rules and facts. Topics of three-dimensional geometry will also be addressed.

Geometry Honors (1 credit) The course, while similar to regular geometry takes a more intensive and extensive look at the concepts covered which include exploring congruent and similar 2 dimensional figures, and applications of surface area, volume and density of 3 dimensional figures. Students are asked to not only solve for values, but also to analyze and articulate the similarities and differences of geometric figures and concepts. An emphasis on inquiry based learning allows students to acquire knowledge through investigation and discovery.

Algebra 2/Trigonometry (1 credit) This course is for juniors who have successfully completed Geometry as sophomores. This course will cover an in depth exploration of functions including polynomial, exponential, logarithmic, radical, rational, and trigonometric. The characteristics of these functions, their graphs and how to algebraically solve equations involving these types of expressions will be the primary focus.

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College Algebra (1 credit) This is an option for seniors who wish to take a fourth year of mathematics. It will be a more comprehensive treatment of topics covered in Algebra 2/Trigonometry. The topics that will be covered are algebraic expressions, linear equations and inequalities, relations and functions, polynomial and rational functions, logarithmic functions, systems of equations and inequalities, and complex numbers. The first semester of this course will include some SAT preparation and the second semester will focus on real world applications of mathematical topics.

Introduction to Calculus (1 credit) This is the standard course for seniors wishing to take a fourth year of mathematics. This course will review the different types of algebraic and trigonometric functions with a focus on graphical analysis. The course will introduce the concepts of limits and differential calculus and explore appropriate applications.

Calculus (1 credit) This course offers a more in-depth study of the major topics of both differential and integral calculus, as well as a closer look at the theory of calculus. This course covers most of the essential topics for the AP Calculus AB exam enabling students to take the AP exam in May, if they wish.

AP Calculus AB (1 credit) This course offers a more intensive and faster paced treatment of the topics covered in the Calculus course. There is a thorough review for the nationwide AP exam.

AP Calculus BC (1 credit) This course covers additional topics in calculus that were not covered in Calculus or AP Calculus AB. Such topics include additional integration techniques, parametric equations, and infinite series. There is a thorough review for the nationwide AP exam.

Financial Accounting (1 credit) This course will provide students with an opportunity to learn the art of recording and processing business transactions. Students will develop the skills required to work through the accounting process of preparing financial statements used by management, investors, and lenders to inform their business decisions. This course is beneficial to students who hope to pursue a business degree in college.

SCIENCE Biology (1 credit)

AP Chemistry (1 credit)

Biology is a freshman level course that covers in depth topics such as the scientific method, the cell along with its organelles and their microscopic structures and functions, cellular processes such as reproduction, respiration and photosynthesis, genetics, heredity, and evolution. While biology is a natural science, we also emphasize, in the spirit of Jesuit education, the social, ethical and environmental impacts of biological research at a local, as well as, a global level. Each cycle, students are required to complete major laboratory experiments or conduct group assignments in which data collection and analysis are required. In addition to these laboratory experiments, the instructor will conduct in-class demonstrations to expose students to more advanced laboratory techniques and practices.

The AP Chemistry course provides students with a college-level foundation to support future advanced coursework in chemistry.

Much of the coursework will include laboratory and inquirybased investigations. Students will continue to explore topics learned in Chemistry and Chemistry Honors, such as: atomic structure, intermolecular forces and bonding, chemical reactions, kinetics, thermodynamics, and equilibrium. The course explores core scientific principles, theories, and processes that cut across traditional boundaries and provide a broad way of thinking about the particulate nature of matter underlying the observations students make about the physical world.

Biology Honors (1 credit) Biology Honors progresses at an accelerated pace with more in depth coverage of the chemistry behind cellular processes such as photosynthesis, cellular respiration, protein synthesis, DNA/RNA replication, and human genetics. This course takes full advantage of cross-curricular opportunities by exploring and incorporating major principles of chemistry, physics, and mathematics in living systems, both during lecture and laboratory activities. During laboratory activities, which occur more frequently, students use more advanced techniques such as preparing buffers, transferring solutions using micropipettes, and preparing and running electrophoresis gels.

AP Biology (1 credit) This course is designed to fulfill the requirements of college level biology. It includes class work, contracts, traditional and independent laboratory investigations, and outside assignments.

The student must be able to do independent work. The student’s overall academic performance and standardized testing will be considered in the application process.

Chemistry (1 credit) This is a traditional chemistry course using atomic and molecular structure to describe and explain how matter behaves and how the composition of substances governs their interactions. Students will enhance their knowledge of scientific thinking and the course will cover the structure and interactions of matter. Topics include: Atomic structure, Chemical Reactions and equations, Phases of matter, Bonding, Temperature, Stoichiometry, Acids and bases and interactions between energy and matter.

Chemistry Honors (1 credit) This course covers the content in Chemistry and pursues more in-depth coverage of several subjects, including quantum mechanical chemistry, applications of chemical processes in other branches of science and industry, nuclear chemistry, and deeper focus on research methodology as it pertains to chemistry.

Physics (1 credit) In physics, students observe objects and processes and describe them mathematically. Topics covered include mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, and optics.

Laboratory experiments are computer based and integrate the formal learning process. A facility with numbers is helpful; the ability to use algebra is essential.

AP Physics 1 (1 credit) AP Physics 1 is an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course that explores topics such as Newtonian mechanics (including rotational motion); work, energy, and power; mechanical waves and sound; and introductory,simple circuits.

Through inquiry-based learning, students will develop scientific critical thinking and reasoning skills.

AP Physics 2 (1 credit) AP Physics 2 is an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course that explores topics such as fluid statics and dynamics; thermodynamics with kinetic theory; PV diagrams and probability; electrostatics; electrical circuits with capacitors; magnetic fields; electromagnetism; physical and geometric optics; and quantum, atomic, and nuclear physics. Through inquiry-based learning, students will develop scientific critical thinking and reasoning skills.

Anatomy & Physiology (1 credit) Anatomy & Physiology, an introductory college-level course, is a science elective available to juniors and seniors. Students study anatomical terms, cells, tissues, homeostasis, the human body in health and disease, and genetics. The course covers the anatomy and physiology of each body system. In addition to laboratory dissection and computerized virtual dissection simulation, class activities include the analysis of case studies and identification of illustrative anatomy on diagrams, radiographs and photographs.

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Microbiology (1 credit) This is a college level course on microbial biology consisting of both lecture and laboratory. The course will cover eukaryotic and prokaryotic microbes and viruses, but will emphasize bacteria.

The majority of this course will deal with learning and mastering the laboratory techniques used by universities and hospitals in bacterial identification and will culminate with students presenting their personal research concerning two unknown bacterial samples that were given to them at the beginning of the course.

This will provide the students with a conceptual and experimental background in microbiology and is aimed at those rising junior and senior students that have a strong desire to enter into the world of health science and/or laboratory science research fields.

Astronomy and Astrobiology (1 credit) This is an introductory-level science elective course available to juniors and seniors. This course will explore the universe focusing specifically on celestial bodies (stars, planets, asteroids and comets), their specific properties or processes and their interactions. The first half of this course will focus on habitability in our solar system and the factors that contribute to Earth’s habitability. The second half of this course will apply the principles of habitability to the study of exoplanets. This course will develop analytical thinking and inquiry skills while students explore habitability throughout our universe. Field trips to the Hayden Planetarium and New York Hall of Science will supplement in class discussions.

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FINE ARTS Art 1: Introduction to Art (½ credit)

AP Studio Art (1 credit)

This one-semester studio course touches on drawing, painting, sculpture, and art history. The topics include elements and principles of art, composition, drawing techniques, graphic design, linear perspective, color theory, painting, sculpture, and art history.

This course meets a full year, but students must be willing to schedule extra time to complete assignments. This is a collegelevel course that assumes a high degree of proficiency and commitment on the part of the student. The course will focus on creating a personal voice for each student by exploring the three areas required by the College Board: quality, breadth, and a 12-piece developed exploration of a personal theme.

The AP Studio Art test is not a written test, but rather a portfolio submission based on stringent requirements.

Art 2: Drawing Skills & Color (1 credit) Learn to draw anything you see! This course is for students who have an interest in continuing the art sequence. It is a full-year studio art course. There is an emphasis on drawing techniques featuring demonstration, observation and practice using charcoal and watercolor. The students will develop their knowledge of art concepts and techniques as well as their own style and working methods. Critiques, drawing, painting and art history are part of the curriculum. “Smocks” will be required. This course is a prerequisite course leading to a four-year sequence in art and culminating in AP Art. Although not necessary for the course, any student who is already thinking of a career in the arts should take this class as part of a three or four year sequence. That allows a student to focus on preparing a college portfolio and creating scholarship-level work.

Art 3: Concept & Design (1 credit) Concept, concept, concept! Learn to THINK your way through a visual problem. This one-year studio course is based on the art skills and knowledge developed in the two preceding years. Art 3 enables the student to explore his own development and style through the Fine Arts. The course is structured to encourage creative exploration and critical thinking: a resource valuable in college and beyond. A portfolio suited to each individual’s style will be developed. A variety of materials will be provided. An Art History component is included. Regular homework, tests and critiques are used for assessment. Any third year student who might need a college portfolio should take this course.

Art 4: Portfolio Building (1 credit) This course meets during the AP class, and is essentially the same class except that the AP test is NOT required. Students must be willing to schedule extra time to complete assignments.

This course assumes a high degree of proficiency and commitment on the part of the student. Students are NOT REQUIRED to take the AP Studio Art test (which is not a written test, but rather a portfolio submission based on stringent requirements) AND THE AP DESIGNATION WILL NOT APPEAR ON THE TRANSCRIPT. The course will focus on creating a personal voice for each student by exploring the three areas required by the College Board: quality, breadth, and a 12-piece developed exploration of a personal theme.

Digital Magic with Photoshop (1 credit) No art or computer experience necessary! Learn all the basics of Photoshop and more as we explore the magic of computer graphics. This full year course will offer some introduction to graphic design and photo retouching, as well as “drawing” and “painting” on the computer. Grades based on mastery of the material, effort, timely assignments and class participation.

Music Appreciation (½ credit) This one-semester survey course introduces students to basic elements in the language and notation of music, the families of musical instruments and the development of various styles, genres, and periods of music history. Special topics include an overview of folk music and the significance of music in major events and movements in our history.

Foundations of Instrumental Music (1 credit) This course is meant for students who do not play an instrument and want to learn. Using traditional band methods, the yearlong course provides initial training on all band instruments (woodwinds, brass and percussion). If they do not own an instrument, students will be expected to rent one. As the year progresses, rhythm section instrument opportunities may become available.

Instrumental Music 1 (1 credit) This course is meant for experienced students who already play an instrument. Students will deepen their ties to the Xavier music community and strengthen instrumental performance skills through exploration of various musical genres.

Instrumental Music 2 (1 credit) This course continues the instrumental performance sequence and is designed to advance instrumental proficiency. Students will continue to deepen their ties to the Xavier music community by developing ensemble skills via performance opportunities.

Instrumental Music 3 (1 credit) This course continues the instrumental performance sequence.

Students are expected to play at an advanced proficiency and understand basic instrumental technique. Students are also expected at this point to be an integral part of the Xavier music community performances. This course will introduce more advanced music concepts such as music theory and improvisation.

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Vocal Music (½ credit)

Stage Craft (½ credit)

This course introduces the fundamentals of singing, including basic principles of vocal performance and music reading skills through exploration of many styles of music from Broadway and the Beatles to chant and folk songs. No prior singing experience is necessary, but students who have had some musical training will be able to add to the skills they have already developed. Grades are determined on the basis of individual preparation, practice, and participation as well as occasional essays and online quizzes.

Stagecraft is an introductory course exploring the technical aspects involved in a theatre production. It is a semester course which employs a hands-on approach to exploring theatre as a collaborative art. Elements of study include facets of theatre history, playwriting, directing, script analysis, lighting, sound, costume, prop, and set design, stage management, and tech crew.

Students will study assigned scenes and create production plans with supporting designs to articulate their unique vision of the play. Students will examine the work of some of the great theatre innovators, while developing and sharing their own designs and research during the course of the semester.

Vocal Chorus (1 credit) This course further develops both vocal skills and performance in both solo and ensemble repertoire. Students will study, rehearse, and perform pieces across the spectra of musical styles and historical periods, ranging from vocal jazz and musical theater to authentic folk songs and madrigals. Because a major goal of this course is building a solid ensemble capable of performing at various annual events, both at Xavier and elsewhere, students may elect this course several times. As the repertoire expands, written assignments broaden the students’ understanding and interpretation of the vocal literature.

Introduction to Acting (½ credit) This one-semester theater course reviews the fundamentals of acting, and is designed to allow students to fine tune their skills and explore more mature content and work. This course will also cover several theater history units.

Advanced Acting (½ credit) Advanced Acting course is for those students who have enjoyed and passed Introduction to Acting. It is a semester course designed to build upon experiences and skills learned in the introductory class. The course will focus on ensemble work, movement, voice, scene, and play analysis, scene work including an emphasis on objectives, obstacles, and acting techniques, as well as a unit on improvisational skills.

Acting for Film (½ credit) This course is designed to explore the practical and artistic elements involved in acting for the camera. Activities include the creation of a commercial, the performance of a monologue/ scene from film and television scripts and more, all with the aim of fostering an understanding of the discipline and skills needed for an actor to perform on camera.

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After school offerings: Blue Night Band (1 credit) The Blue Night Band is an award winning instrumental ensemble made up of advanced music players. The band performs each year in parades (Columbus Day and St. Patrick’s Day Parades), and various Xavier concerts and functions throughout the year.

The Band covers a diverse repertoire and requires a high level of proficiency on your instrument. The Band has gone on road trips and performed in many festivals around the country. Students who are accepted in the Blue Night Band must attend rehearsals from 3:00 to 4:30 PM twice per week (Tuesdays and Thursdays), and all the performances scheduled for the year. These include day and evening performances as listed. Students will also be given the opportunity to apply for a position as a Blue Night Band Officer as well. Independent practice will be required.

COMPUTER SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY Coding 1 (½ credit)

Game Design with Unity (1 credit)

The Intro to Computer Science class is required of all freshmen at Xavier. It is a semester long class. The topics covered include: effective search strategies, securing domains and hosting, FTP programs, publishing to the Web, HTML, CSS, basic algorithms, and programming in JavaScript. By the end of the course, students will have their own Internet domain populated with their own content. They will be familiar with how to code websites from scratch and they will know the basics of object-oriented programming using JavaScript.

Game Design is an elective for juniors and seniors. It will build on students’ prior experience with coding. Students will learn programming in the C# language and use the Unity platform to design 2D and 3D games for Web and Mobile devices. Concepts range from game creation for Virtual Reality to publishing on the Google Play store. Students will design a platform game in Unity, program it in C#, and have the option to publish it to the Google Play store as a final project.

Advanced Computer Applications (1 credit)

The Xavier Robotics curriculum combines skills in technology, math and science. Robotics allows students to think about solutions, try them out, and find out what works and what doesn’t.

It allows students to share ideas, work in teams, and keep on improving their solution, continually trying new ideas. Students use their artistic and writing talents to bring their robots to life and to let others understand their robots. Students learn how to program their robots by learning the C programming language. Students will compete with one another in design and programming challenges. The year will culminate in an autonomous robotics tournament against other schools.

This course is an introduction to the basic tenets of programming and software development. Emphasis is placed on gaining handson experience in programming for web platforms, as well as App development in C#. In the 1st semester, students will explore the App development process as it pertains to creating mobile apps for online websites. Each student will create a permanent onlinerepository of web apps that will be easily accessible from mobile devices. This repository will act as student’s online portfolio, and will be used to showcase their programming skills when applying to colleges and universities. The 2nd semester will focus on App development for mobile platforms iOS/Android). Students will partner with local businesses, and develop an App for their chosen community partner. Microsoft’s Xamarin will be the development environment of choice, and Apps will be programmed making extensive use of the programming language C#.

Web Programming and Design (1 credit) This course is an introduction to advanced level graphical presentations, the Internet, Web Page Design, and Adobe Design tools. Emphasis is placed on gaining hands-on experience in the use of these information technology tools. Students will create their own dot-coms and spend the year creating Web-based projects in HTML, CSS and JavaScript.

Robotics (1 credit)

Moviemaking and Editing with Premiere Pro (1 credit) Moviemaking with Premiere Pro is a technology elective for juniors and seniors. Students will learn the basics of pre-production, production, and editing with Adobe Premiere Pro. The course will allow students to plan, shoot and edit their own short films and present them at the end of the year at the Xavier Film Festival.

AP Computer Science (1 credit) AP Computer Science is both a college-prep course for potential computer science majors and a foundation course for students planning to study in other technical fields such as engineering, physics, and chemistry. The course emphasizes programming methodology, procedural abstraction, and in-depth study of algorithms, data structures, and data abstractions. This course is taught using the Java programming language along with program development environments. Instruction includes preparation for the AP Computer Science A Exam.

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MILITARY SCIENCE Military Science 9 (½ credit)

Military Science 11 (½ credit)

The LET 1 curriculum is the foundation upon which all future JROTC leadership training will build upon. The freshman curriculum will prepare cadets for the challenges they will confront as future leaders in the Xavier Regiment and future leaders in their communities. As a leadership and citizenship program, the freshman JROTC curriculum will cover the fundamentals of military customs and courtesies, rank and structure and drill and ceremony.

Cadets will be academically challenged with classes covering, among other topics, “Leadership Theory and Applications”, “Foundations for Success”, “Knowing Your Responsibilities as a Leader”, “Setting Financial Goals”, and “Conflict Resolution”. These broad topics will provide cadets with an opportunity to learn and practice skills that are universally accepted as key skills thought to be indispensable to good leaders. Additionally, cadets will learn and practice ethical decision making and problem solving skills, public speaking, goal setting and time management. Although military science stresses the need for leaders to be academically strong, it also stresses the need for leaders to be physically strong.

To this end, near the end of their freshman year cadets will practice for and take a five event physical fitness challenge that offers them a chance to earn a Presidential Physical Fitness Award. At the conclusion of their freshman year, cadets may choose to attend the JROTC Cadet Leadership Challenge, a three day event held at Ft. Devens, MA which is specifically designed to afford cadets the opportunity to practice their newly learned skills in a challenging and fun environment. Students attend three classes each cycle.

This course is a continuation of the Junior ROTC program. Applied leadership principles are emphasized. Cadets are preparing to assume the highest leadership roles during their senior year. The course reinforces Drill and Ceremonies to include: Platoon Drill, Company Formations and Movements and In Ranks Inspections.

Leadership tasks include: Basic Command and Staff Principles, Taking Charge, and Knowing your Responsibilities as a Leader.

Celebrating Differences, Cultural and Individual Diversity, Managing Anger, Conflict Resolution, Conflict Mediation, and Violence Prevention are social issues that are taught. The cadets are given the opportunity to create and present individual and group presentations. All juniors may enroll in Military Science 11, to include those who did not take Military Science 9 or 10.

Students who take this course enroll for the entire year. Students attend four classes each cycle.

Military Science 10 (½ credit) This is a continuation of the Junior ROTC program. As sophomores the Cadets will start to develop their leadership skills and are taught subjects that are useful throughout their lives. Drill and Ceremonies, Land Navigation, Map Reading, Military Justice System and Leadership Principles are the military related subjects that are taught. Components of Whole Health and Nutrition along with First Aid, Life-Saving Steps, Cold and Heat related injuries are skills that can be used as soon as they are learnt. Citizenship classes include: Introduction to Chief Justice, Our Natural Rights, Developing Republican Government, Colonial Government, State Constitutions, Articles of Confederation, Roles of Citizens, and Protection of Rights within the Judicial System. Preparation for leadership positions in the next two years is highly emphasized.

Cadets are urged to perform to the best of their ability to ensure a high ranking position as a junior. All sophomores may enroll in Military Science 10, to include those who did not take Military Science 9. Students who take this course enroll for the entire year.

Students attend three classes each cycle.

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Military Science 12 (½ credit) Army JROTC curriculum is based on the principles of performancebased, learner-centered education. Lessons and assessments are designed to actively engage students’ higher-order thinking and skill performance. Therefore, LET IV curriculum is a culminating experience which allows cadets to put into practice the training received through their previous 3 years in the program. The senior year curriculum will result in the development of a broad array of life-long skills that will be essential for success in all future endeavors. Under the guidance of the Army Instructors, fourth year cadets take ownership of the program by assuming the responsibilities attendant with their elevated positions. Cadets serving as Staff Officers are responsible for a broad range of duties to include Administrative Actions (S1), Operations & Training (S3), and Supply & Logistics (S4). Seniors also serve as Platoon Leaders, Company and Battalion Executive Officers and Commanders. All Officers of the Regiment have subordinate cadets whose success depends largely upon the officer’s ability to demonstrate excellent leadership. Additionally, senior cadets act as assistant instructors in selective subject areas for other JROTC classes. LET IV cadets continue to develop their leadership skills by taking charge in the planning of special unit events such as the Military Ball and the annual awards banquet.

HEALTH & PHYSICAL EDUCATION Health The maintenance and development of good health is basic to all of our lives. Adolescents need accurate health information in order to develop healthy attitudes and behavior patterns. Students are beginning to assume responsibility for their own health, and as a result, will be making choices and decisions that may affect them throughout their lives. The Health course at Xavier offers knowledge and skills that enable each student to make choices and decisions based upon accurate and current information related to: decision making, nutrition, tobacco, alcohol and drug abuse, sexually transmitted diseases, and First Aid/CPR. The goal of this course is to enable the students to assess their own lifestyles and risks, in order that they may choose behaviors that are healthy and responsible.

Physical Education In this course, students are introduced to the many ways of keeping physically fit in classes that meet once a cycle. Individual fitness programs and team sports are taught in an atmosphere that fosters communication and teamwork. General and sport specific weight training programs that focus on strength, power and balance are part of an overall fitness program taught to help increase core strength and prevent injury.

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GUIDANCE DEPARTMENT PROGRAM Xavier’s guidance program is grounded in the basic principle of helping students to become independent, fully functioning, contributing members of the community and society. Our responsibility to prepare learners to live and work in a changing society is met in individual, small group and large group settings.

The guidance curriculum is integrated and articulated throughout grades 9-12 and is developmentally appropriate.

Guidance counselors at Xavier High School are concerned with the students’ total development: intellectually, physically, emotionally and socially. They work to assist students to assume responsibility, develop to their highest potential, take an active role in the school community and be prepared for their future roles in society.

Counselors advocate for students in a variety of personal, social and educational roles.

The guidance counselors are experienced in assisting students to select courses of study that are best suited to their interests, abilities and personal goals. The counselors work closely with students, parents and faculty members in advising with regard to the level of difficulty of those courses and sequences that will be beneficial to the student. The counselors also assist the students in evaluating and selecting the appropriate post-secondary choices.

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XAVIER

H I G H

S C H O O L

30 West 16th Street New York, NY 10011 Tel: (212) 924-7900 Fax: (212) 924-0303 www.xavierhs.org