Programs of Study | Course of Study

SACRED HEART HIGH SCHOOL
Course Descriptions

ENGLISH DEPARTMENT

ENGLISH 011 - ENGLISH 1
Basic grammar skills are developed and intensive attention is given to usage and to mechanics. The essential tools for writing and revising are introduced during the year. Students are introduced to a concentrated study of literary genres: the short story, poetry, drama, and the novel. (1 credit Honors)

ENGLISH 012 - ENGLISH 1
Basic grammar skills are developed with an emphasis on mechanics and usage. Writing focuses on the well-developed paragraph, emphasizing a good topic sentence, solid supporting sentences, and a strong clincher sentence. In literature, students are introduced to the genres of the short story, poetry, drama, and the novel. (1 credit CP2)

ENGLISH 013 - ENGLISH 1
Basic grammar skills emphasizing correct usage are introduced and intensively reviewed. Solid note taking and outlining skills are encouraged to promote overall academic success. Writing skills begin with the construction of the solid clear sentence and progress to a solid clear paragraph (1 credit CP1)

ENGLISH 034- STUDY SKILLS
This course reinforces basic skills necessary for study at the high school level.  All subjects are included, and students are individually monitored for progress in each academic area.  Students are chosen on the basis of the Eighth Grade Placement Test. (1 credit CP1)

ENGLISH 021 - ENGLISH 2
This course intensifies the study of world literature, continuing with genre study and its various elements.   Students will work to improve their writing craft with a thorough study of grammar techniques, leading to the successfully prepared five-paragraph essay. (1 credit Honors)

ENGLISH 022 - ENGLISH 2
This course includes a more structured, more intense approach to the elements of genre study. Grammar techniques will be further developed and tested through integration with literature, vocabulary, and other writing exercises. Students will endeavor to improve their writing skills by learning the proper structuring of the five paragraph essay, a writing goal that is developed throughout the year. (1 credit CP2)

ENGLISH 023 - ENGLISH 2
This course focuses on building a solid foundation in reading comprehension and writing, while continuing the study of world literature. Grammar exercises and writing exercises are utilized to help strengthen student confidence in acquiring a practical writing base. (1 credit CP1)

ENGLISH 031 - ENGLISH 3
This course is a sequential study of the literature of the United States and of its corresponding social, historical, and cultural settings. The material covered constitutes a broad range of writers, genres, and literary movements. Instruction is given in completing a formal research paper in the MLA format.  (1 credit Honors)

ENGLISH 032 - ENGLISH 3
The history of the United States is traced through a chronological study of its literature. Special emphasis is put on the relationship between the authors and their writings, and the historical and cultural context from which they emerge. Strategies are offered for gathering, sorting, and presenting information in a formal research paper. (1 credit CP2)

ENGLISH 033 - ENGLISH 3
This chronological study of American literature includes representative readings from significant historical, cultural, and literary periods. Students cover a variety of works and genres through both guided and independent readings. Step-by-step instruction is given in gathering and organizing information for a research paper. (1 credit CP1)

ENGLISH 040 - ADVANCED PLACEMENT - ENGLISH 4
This course is an intensive study of a broad range of literary works, as students work to sharpen their interpretive and their composition skills. Selected short stories, plays, poems, and novels are fully analyzed in preparation for college and for the Advanced Placement Examination in the spring. Special emphasis is placed on the analysis in writing. BY RECOMMENDATION ONLY  (1 credit AP)

ENGLISH 041 - ENGLISH 4
Students further develop their analytical skills through literary study and through the writing program. In literature, students conduct an in-depth examination of the major evolutions in the development of British literature. In the writing program, special emphasis is placed on the multi-paragraph reaction paper, where students delineate their ideas in a logical, coherent fashion. (1 credit Honors)

ENGLISH 042 - ENGLISH 4
This course offers a chronological study of British literature and includes many representative works from each era. Writing assignments correlate to the analysis of the primary works in British literature. (1 credit CP2)

ENGLISH 043 - ENGLISH 4
This course focuses on a chronological approach to British literature, with a representative work examined from each era.
(1 credit CP1)

Back To Top



MATHEMATICS

MATH 111-ALGEBRA I HONORS
This course presents a non-traditional approach to algebra. It highlights applications, using statistics and geometry to develop the algebra of linear equations, inequalities, and linear systems. (1 credit Honors )

MATH 112-ALGEBRA I
This course is presented as a traditional approach to algebra. Students are introduced to concepts that include solving equations. Skill building is a major focus of this course. ( 1 credit CP2 )

MATH 113-INTRODUCTORY ALGEBRA

This is the first year of a three semester approach to Algebra I. Students will begin their algebra study with operations of signed numbers, evaluating algebraic equations, solving equations, graphing ordered pairs, and an introduction to linear equations (1 credit CP1 )

MATH 121-GEOMETRY HONORS
Students will be expected to visualize and draw figures according to the written descriptions. Algorithms will also be learned and applied to real world situations. The concept of transformations will be utilized to present and prove traditional Euclidean geometry theorems. (1 credit Honors )

MATH 122-GEOMETRY
Traditional Euclidean geometry concepts are emphasized throughout this course. Transformational geometry and coordinate geometry are also introduced. Proofs are explored with an emphasis on the development of logic and reasoning skills. (1 credit CP2 )

MATH 123-INTERMEDIATE ALGEBRA I
This course completes the three semester cycle of Algebra I. A study of linear equations continues with equation writing, linear systems, inequalities, polynomials, and irrational numbers.   An introduction  to concepts in Geometry begins in the second semester.  (1 credit CP1 )

MATH 131-ALGEBRA II HONORS
This course provides a survey of advanced topics similar to the Algebra II CP2 curriculum. A greater focus is on the relationship between functions and their graphs. Appropriate technology includes the graphing calculator, which is used for instruction and assessment. (1 credit Honors )

MATH 132-ALGEBRA II
Algebra II continues the students’ study of fundamental algebraic concepts and provides a greater exploration of advanced topics such as functions and their graphs, polynomials, rational expressions, complex numbers, systems of equations, systems of inequalities, matrices, and exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions. (1 credit CP2 )

MATH 133-GEOMETRY
This is a basic geometry course covering the topics of deductive reasoning, applications of geometric theorems and postulates through the extension of concepts learned in Algebra I, polygons, similar figures, Pythagorean theorem, circles, areas, volumes, and coordinate geometry.   An introduction to Algebra 2 beins in the second semester.  (1 credit CP1)

MATH 140-UConn ECE CALCULUS
This course is the equivalent to Math 115 and 116 in the UConn catalog.  Topics include a rigorous presentation of functions and their behavior. Methods of differentiation and integration are developed both in theory and for applications. Advanced sequences and series are also studied. Students in this class who maintain a 'C 'average for each semester will be eligible for 8 UConn credits. (1 credit AP )

MATH 141-PRE-CALCULUS HONORS
This course is designed to complete the student’s preparation for Calculus. The standard pre-calculus topics of relation and function, polynomial and rational functions, the analytical geometry of conics, exponential and logarithmic functions, trigonometry, and sequences and series are all covered. (1 credit Honors)

MATH 142-PRE-CALCULUS
The standard pre-calculus topics are covered as listed in the honors course (141). However, they are not covered to the same depth nor with the same rigor. The core material covered in the course prepares a competent student for calculus. (1 credit CP2)

MATH 152-STATISTICS AND PROBABILITY
In this course, the students will experience an in-depth introduction to the world of statistics and probability. Classification of data, identification of central tendencies, analysis of trends, and prediction of confidence levels of statistical sampling will be emphasized. ( 1 credit CP2 )

Back To Top



FOREIGN LANGUAGE

SPANISH 212-SPANISH 1
This course is designed to afford students the opportunity to gain an understanding of, and appreciation for the Spanish language. Presentation and practice of functional expressions, vocabulary, and grammar structures are interwoven with cultural information and technology carefully sequenced to enable students to progress steadily to the ultimate goal of basic linguistic and cultural proficiency. (1 credit, CP2)

SPANISH 213- SPANISH 1
An introductory course, Spanish 213 presents students with the basic skills of reading, writing, speaking, and listening to the Spanish language in everyday situations. (1 credit, CP1)

SPANISH 221-SPANISH 2 HONORS
This course is an advanced course which utilizes a highly integrated approach to build upon the information and skills presented in the Spanish 212 course. This course is more intensive that Spanish 222. Reading, writing, and oral proficiency will become essential in this course. (1 Credit, Honors)

SPANISH 222-SPANISH 2
This course is an intermediate course which utilizes a highly integrated approach to build upon the information and skills presented in the Spanish 212 course. (1 credit, CP2)

SPANISH 223-SPANISH 2
This interactive course provides students with an enjoyable instructional experience in which they benefit as the course is designed to accommodate a variety of unique learning styles. Meaningful language proficiency is the ultimate goal. Students enrolled in the Spanish 223 course, however, will  be eligible for Spanish III CP1.  (1 credit, CP1)

SPANISH 231-SPANISH 3 HONORS
This course will expand on the knowledge base formed in Spanish I and II. Reading, writing and
oral proficiency will become essential in this more intensive course. This course will serve as preparation for Spanish IV Honors. (1 credit Honors)

SPANISH 232-SPANISH 3
This course will expand on the knowledge base formed in Spanish I and II. Reading, writing and oral proficiency skills will be enhanced. (1 credit CP2)

SPANISH 233-SPANISH 3
This course will expand on the knowledge base formed in Spanish 213 and 223.  (1 credit CP1)

SPANISH 241-SPANISH 4
This course offers the study of advanced grammar and culture through the study of Spanish literature.  Oral proficiency and other communication skills are developed. (1 credit Honors)

ITALIAN 215-ITALIAN 1
This introductory course begins a four-year approach to effective communication in Italian. Basic grammar, greetings, customs, and culture are the focus at this level (1 credit, CP2)

ITALIAN 225-ITALIAN 2
After a brief review of the basics, emphasis shifts towards the spoken language. Concentrating on the formation of effective questions and answers is the primary goal. (1 credit, CP2)

ITALIAN 235-ITALIAN 3
Open Class Discussion conducted in Italian is the aim of this course. Considerable attention is given to the individual student’s need for thoughtful expression, while the common need for refined grammar, pronunciation, and writing skills, is still addressed (1 credit, Honors)

ITALIAN 245-ITALIAN 4
This conclusive course also offers the opportunity to study and discuss Italy’s timeless, classical literary and artistic works. (1 credit, Honors)

Back To Top


SCIENCE

SCIENCE 302-PRINCIPLES OF SCIENCE
Topics that will be discussed include the properties of matter, atoms and the periodic table, chemical reactions, motion, force, wave properties, and current topics in Health Education. (1/2 Credit CP2)

SCIENCE 311-HONORS BIOLOGY
This rigorous course provides for an intensive study of biological principles. Laboratory exercises, Internet activities and independent study are required.(1 credit Honors )

SCIENCE 312-BIOLOGY
This course explores the wonders and complex nature of living things. Relationships among living organisms are stressed. Laboratory exercises and Internet activities are required where appropriate. (1 credit CP2 )

SCIENCE 313-BIOLOGY
This course introduces the student to basic biological principles and explores the nature and diversity of living organisms. (1 credit CP1 )

SCIENCE 320-AP CHEMISTRY
This is a course that will be taught on the college levelcovering introductory subjects and more advanced concepts.  Lab work will be extensive and integral part of theis course.  Students will be chosen woth the permission of the instructor. Pre-requisite Algebra 2 Honors. (1 credit AP)


SCIENCE 321-HONORS CHEMISTRY

This course provides for an intense study of chemical principles and the structure and behavior of matter. . Prerequisite: Algebra 2, which may be taken concurrently. (1 credit Honors)

SCIENCE 322-CHEMISTRY
This course provides students with an understanding of the structure and behavior of matter. Laboratory exercises and Internet activities are required. Prerequisite: Algebra 2, which may be taken concurrently. (1 Credit CP2 )

SCIENCE 323--INTRO TO ALLIED HEALTH
This course is an introduction to the Health Care field.  Students will explore a variety of vocational opportunities within the helath care field.  Basic skills, including CPR will be learned.(1/2 credit CP2)

SCIENCE 324--ALLIED HEALTH
This 3 credit senior elective will be held in cooperation with St. Mary's Hospital.  Students will learn all of the basic skills necessary to successfully complete the Certified Nurses' exam.  Students will spend three periods per day  in the hospital environment.  ( 3 credits CP2)

SCIENCE 330-PHYSICS UCONN COOP
This course is offered through the University of Connecticut Early College Experience Program. It mirrors Physics 121 & 122 taught at the University of Connecticut as entry-level physics. It is taught at a college level and therefore requires effort and preparation consistent with college level work, as such; it offers the student an excellent opportunity to prepare for college level science and technology courses. Student receiving a “C” or higher during each semester will receive a transcript from the University of Connecticut with 4 credits for each semester. (1 credit AP)

SCIENCE 331-HONORS PHYSICS
This is a mathematically rigorous course that is designed to explore the relationship between matter and energy. Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra 2. (1 credit Honors )

SCIENCE 332-PHYSICS
This course explores the relationship of matter and energy. The major areas of mechanics, thermodynamics, sound and wave motion, light and electricity will be developedPrerequisite: Completion of Algebra 2. .(1 credit CP2 )

SCIENCE 342-ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY
This course introduces the student to the structural organization of the human body and its relationship to bodily functions. This course provides strong preparation for advanced studies in the biological and health sciences. Animal and organ dissections are included. ( 1 credit CP2 )

SCIENCE 344-HUMAN BODY SYSTEMS
This one semester course provides an overview of the structure and function of the human body. (1/2 credit CP 2 )

SCIENCE 362-NUTRITION
This is a one-semester course that is intended to acquaint students with the nutritional requirements of the body. Digestion, metabolism, proper diets and therapeutic nutrition are included topics. (1/2 credit CP2 )

SCIENCE 382-ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
This one semester course studies the interdependent relationship that is found between humans and their environment. ( _ credit CP 2 )

SCIENCE 384-FORENSICS
This one semester course is open to students in grades 11 and 12.  It is an introduction to some of the science and tools used in Forensic Science.  Extensive laboratory work.  (1/2 credit cp2)


PHYSICAL EDUCATION/HEALTH

The basic principles of health, hygiene, and nutrition are offered, as well as a variety of sports to encourage physical, emotional and social health. Students who are on a Sacred Heart High School CIAC team may receive Physical Education credit for that season and opt out of gym. (1/2 credit CP2)

Back To Top


SOCIAL STUDIES

SOCIAL STUDIES 411-WORLD HISTORY
It presents a chronological narrative of world history from the dawn of humans through the development of early civilizations to the present. (1 credit Honors)

SOCIAL STUDIES 412-WORLD HISTORY
This course examines the development of major civilizations and cultures throughout history. (1 credit CP2)

SOCIAL STUDIES 413-WORLD HISTORY
See description for Social Studies 412. RECOMMENDED FOR STUDENTS TAKING ENGLISH 013. (1 credit CP1)

SOCIAL STUDIES 422-GLOBAL STUDIES
This comprehensive social studies course will enable students to build social action skills and inspire students to participate in a culturally diverse world. Areas of study are based on current global events. (1/2 credit CP2)

SOCIAL STUDIES 424-ASIAN STUDIES
The relationship between the United States and the Asian countries of China, Japan, and Korea is complex and challenged by vast linguistic and cultural differences as well as intense economic competition (1/2 credit CP2)

SOCIAL STUDIES 430 ADVANCED PLACEMENT U.S. HISTORY
This is an intensive, rigorous U.S. History course taken in preparation for college credit in the Advanced Placement examination in the spring. (1 credit AP)

SOCIAL STUDIES 431-UNITED STATES HISTORY
This is an advanced U.S. History course intended to give an overview of the economic, political, and social development of the U.S. from colonial times to the Gilded Age. (1 credit Honors)

SOCIAL STUDIES 432-UNITED STATES HISTORY
This course is a one-year survey of U.S. History from colonial times to the Gilded Age. (1 credit CP2)

SOCIAL STUDIES 433-UNITED STATES HISTORY
This one-year course explores the major thematic elements of American history, focusing on the development and transformation of America's economic and political systems. (1 credit CP1)

SOCIAL STUDIES 442- PRACTICAL ECONOMICS
This course is a full year, one credit (in the area of Social Studies) course that involves students in the running of the school store (1 credit CP2)

SOCIAL STUDIES 452-POLITICAL SCIENCE

This course develops an appreciation of the value of American citizenship and the responsibilities of each individual in our system of government. (1/2 credit CP2)

SOCIAL STUDIES 462-PSYCHOLOGY
This introductory course helps students understand the basic methods, concepts, and principles of Psychology. (1/2 credit CP2)

SOCIAL STUDIES 472-SOCIOLOGY
The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the way sociologists investigate, describe, and analyze social life. (1/2 credit CP2)

SOCIAL STUDIES 482-THE UNITED STATES IN THE 20TH CENTURY

This is a full year course from the Spanish American War to the present, balancing the political, social, and economic history of the period. (1 credit CP2)

Back To Top



RELIGION

RELIGION 612-UNDERSTANDING CATHOLIC CHRISTIANITY
Comprehensive survey of Catholic Christianity, based on the Catechism of the Catholic Church. (1 credit CP2)

RELIGION 622- THE HEBREW SCRIPTURES
This is a survey course in the Old Testament covering major figures, historical events and development of religious thought from Genesis through Macabees, including the impact of occupations of Greece and Rome. (1/2 credit CP2)

RELIGION 623-THE NEW TESTAMENT
This course is designed to guide students to an understanding of the New Testament, with special emphasis on applying this understanding to their daily lives. 1/2 credit CP2)

RELIGION 633- MAKING MORAL DECISIONS

This is a thorough course in Christian moral decision-making, designed specifically for high school students. (1/2 credit CP2)

RELIGION 642- SOCIAL JUSTICE
The goal of this course is to allow students to realize that the Christian is called to join with members of the faith community to address problems of injustice, discrimination, and improper distribution of the goods of this world. (1/2 credit CP2)

RELIGION 643-WORLD RELIGIONS
This is a survey course of the major religions of the world. (1 credit CP2)

Back To Top



BUSINESS/TECHNOLOGY

BUSINESS 710-INTERNET RESEARCH ACTIVITIES

This (independent) course is designed to help students gain comfort, insight and mastery of the Internet with activity oriented and hands-on approach for the Internet beginner. (1/2 credit CP2)

BUSINESS 712-COMPUTER CONCEPTS AND APPLICATIONS

Thiscourse provides students with practical experience and a working knowledge of beginning features of Microsoft Office for Windows 2000 and is designed to teach the input skills needed for keyboarding, formatting and document processing. (1/2 Credit, CP2)

BUSINESS 720-INTRODUCTION TO LAW AND LRE
This study of Law and LRE is structured to provide practical information and problem-solving opportunities that will help students develop the knowledge and skills necessary in our law-saturated society. (1/2 Credit, CP2)

BUSINESS 721-COMPUTER APPLICATIONS 2

This course will reinforce basic keyboarding skills and the skills learned in Computer Concepts and further provides a more comprehensive approach to exploring word processing, spreadsheets, databases and presentation software. (1/2 credit CP2)

BUSINESS 722-COMPUTER PROGRAMMING

This course introduces students to structured basic and modular programming concepts in the context of practical applications. (1/2 credit CP2)

BUSINESS 725-POST UNIVERSITY PRINCIPLES OF MANAGEMENT
This course is an introduction to the principles of management and their application to public, profit and non-profit organizations. Student may receive 3 credits from  Post upon payment of fee to University and grade of “C” or better. (1/2  credit CP2)

BUSINESS 726-POST UNIVERSITY HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
This course is a presentation, analysis and discussion of specific functions of an organization’s HumanResource Department including the human relation’s knowledge and skills vital to the success of any manager.  Student may receive 3 credits from  Post upon payment of fee to University and grade of “C” or better. (1/2 credit CP2)

BUSINESS 742-ACCOUNTING
This first-year accounting course is designed to give the student a thorough background in the basic accounting procedures used to operate a business. (1 credit CP2)

Back To Top



FINE ARTS

FINE ARTS 811-PORTFOLIO PREPARATION
This course is offered to junior and senior students who are interested in Visual Art as a possible career choice. This course provides the opportunity for students to work on portfolios for college admittance. (1 credit, CP2)

FINE ARTS 811-2-PORTFOLIO PREPARATION II
This course is a continuation of Portfolio Preparation 824 and follows the same criteria. PRE-REQUISITE: Fine Arts 811 (1 credit, CP 2)

FINE ARTS 812-DRAWING AND DESIGN
This course is the study of drawing using specific fundamentals of two-dimensional design. (1/2 credit, CP2)

FINE ARTS 822-COLOR AND PAINTING
This course is the study of color theory and exploration of painting techniques. (1/2 credit, CP2)

FINE ARTS 824-SCULPTURE
This course is the study of fundamental techniques in 3-dimensional design. SENIOR ELECTIVE ONLY (1/2 credit, CP 2)

FINE ARTS 825--INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC
This course in instrumental music is available to all students interested.  Students must provide their own instrument.(1/2 credit CP2)

FINE ARTS 826-VOCAL MUSIC
This course in vocal music is available to all interested students. (1/2 credit CP2)

FINE ARTS828-INTRO TO PHOTO SHOP
 This one semester course will introduce the student toPhotoshop and develop his/her digital imaging skills.  Junior , Senior elective only (1/2 credit CP2)

Back To Top


SPECIAL PROGRAMS

COLLEGE COURSES
College credit can be earned in a variety of settings including UConn Coop, video distance learning, special classes at Sacred Heart during school hours, and classes at local colleges after school hours with the permission of the Principal. Required courses at SHHS must be completed to be considered for enrollment. To receive college credit the course must be satisfactorily completed, and an additional fee will be assessed for a college transcript.  Early College Experience (ECE) through the Unversity of Connecticut provides academically motivated students the opportunity to take university courses while still in high school  These challenging courses allow students to preview work, build confidence in their readiness for college, and earn college credits that provide both an academic and financila head start on a college degreed.

DRIVER EDUCATION
This after-school program is offered by an outside agency for the students. There is an additional fee for the course.

GROUP GUIDANCE
Students meet in small groups during their junior and senior years to explore career and college opportunities. The college application process is also presented.

SAT PREP
This after-school program offers students a review of verbal and mathematics in order to improve performance on the SAT I exam. This program is offered in the Fall at an additional fee.

Back To Top

 

DEPARTMENTS
English
Mathematics
Foreign Language
Science
Physical Education
Social Studies
Religion
Business/Technology
Fine Arts
Special Programs

About Us | Academics | Admissions | Student Activities | Athletics | Calendar | Development | Contact Us

©2008 Sacred Heart High School, All rights reserved
Digital Solutions provided by Horizon Marketing Group, Inc.