Course Descriptions

Statistical Reasoning in Sports & Media 2.5 credits

Grades 11, 12

This half year course teaches students how to use four steps of the statistical process in the context of sports and the media: ask questions, collect data, analyze data, and make conclusions. Each chapter will begin with either a sports or media related statistical  question drawn from current news making headlines. Major statistical topics include: analyzing distributions of univariate and bivariate data, using graphs and summary statistics, correlation and least squares regression (to name a few). Use of technology, including online applets and the graphing  calculator will be prominent in the course. Prerequisites: At least a 60% in Algebra 2. Students are not allowed to take this course concurrently with AP Statistics.  Students who already completed AP Statistics are not eligible for this course. 

AP Statistics 5 credits

Grades 10, 11, 12

This is a college-level introductory, non-calculus based course in statistics. It will introduce students to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing and drawing conclusions from data. Students will make extensive use of statistical graphing calculators and statistics software. All topics in the syllabus for the Advanced Placement Statistics test are included in the curriculum. Satisfactory performance on this test may qualify the student for college credit for one or more semesters of statistics. As a college-level course, considerable nightly preparation is required. Prerequisite: At least a 90% in Algebra 2 or Pre-Calculus or an 85% in Algebra 2 Honors or Pre-Calculus Honors.

Calculus 5 credits

Grades 11, 12

This course involves the study of algebraic, trigonometric, exponential and logarithmic functions and elementary differential integral calculus, and focuses on the practical applications of these concepts. Graphing calculators will be utilized extensively. This course is for the student interested in being exposed to Calculus topics related to their field of interest. Prerequisite: At least a 60% in Pre-Calculus or Pre-Calculus Honors.

AP Calculus AB 5 credits

Grades 10, 11, 12

This course involves an  in-depth study of algebraic, trigonometric, exponential and logarithmic functions and elementary differential integral calculus. All topics in the syllabus for the Advanced Placement Mathematics Test, Calculus AB, are included in the curriculum. Satisfactory performance on this test may qualify the student for college credit for one or more semesters of calculus. As a college-level course considerable nightly preparation is required. Prerequisites: At least a 90% in Pre-Calculus or 85% in Pre-Calculus Honors or Calculus.

AP Calculus BC 5 credits

Grades 10, 11, 12

This course involves an in-depth study of elementary differential and integral calculus, vector, polar, and parametrically defined functions, and infinite series (including Taylor Series). All topics in the syllabus for the Advanced Placement Mathematics Test, Calculus BC, are included in the curriculum. Satisfactory performance on this test may qualify the student for college credit for two or more semesters of calculus. As a college-level course, considerable nightly preparation is required. Prerequisites: At least a 95% in Pre-Calculus or 90% in Pre-Calculus Honors or Calculus.

Calculus 2 (DC with Syracuse University) Syracuse University 4 credits/HVCHS 5 credits

Grades 11, 12

This is the second course in a three semester calculus sequence designed for mathematics, science and engineering majors. Concepts covered: exponential logarithms and inverse trigonometric functions and see how they can be applied to a wide range of topics. This is a college course offered through Syracuse University. Juniors and Seniors have the option to pay a (discounted) fee for SU credit. They will receive a Syracuse University transcript with the ability to transfer credits to most US colleges and universities. As a college-level course, considerable nightly preparation is required. Prerequisite: Score of 4 or better on AP Calculus AB exam. This Course is eligible for AP weight.

*Please note- for an additional fee students may receive Syracuse University credit pending half the students in the class sign up for credit through Syracuse.

Calculus 3 (DC with Syracuse University) Syracuse University 4 credits/HVCHS 5 credits

Grades 11, 12

This is the third course in a three-semester calculus sequence designed for mathematics, science and engineering majors. Concepts covered include vectors, vector-valued functions, functions of several variables, partial derivatives, and multiple-integration.  This is a college course offered through Syracuse University, and students paying the (discounted) fee for SU credit will receive a Syracuse University transcript. As a college-level course, considerable nightly preparation is required. Prerequisite: Earning a score of 4 or better on the AP BC Calculus exam or earning a qualifying score on Syracuse University examinations.  This Course is eligible for AP weight.

*Please note- for an additional fee students may receive Syracuse University credit pending half the students in the class sign up for credit through Syracuse.

AP Environmental Science 7 credits

Grades 11, 12

The goal of the course is to provide students with an understanding of the scientific principles governing the natural world and to apply these concepts to the analysis and proposed remediation of environmental problems. This is designed to be the equivalent of a one-semester introductory college course in environmental science. Concepts covered include: earth systems and resources, population, land and water use, and energy resources and consumption (to name a few). Required lab work will include outdoor activities, extensive use of technology in the laboratory, and field trips to local environmental study sites. This course meets for 4.5 periods every four days.

Prerequisites: Minimum grades of 90% in Chemistry or 85% in Honors Chemistry. 

AP Biology 7 credits

Grades 11, 12

This is a full-year course designed for high-ability students who wish to pursue a college-level curriculum in the biological sciences. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for the Advanced Placement test in Biology. Concepts covered include: evolution, ecology, homeostasis, communication, genetics and interactions. There is a heavy emphasis on laboratory work, with some statistical analysis and independent learning. This course meets for 4.5 periods every four days. Prerequisites: Minimum grades of 85% in Physics or 80% in AP Physics 1. Students may be enrolled in Physics or AP Physics 1 concurrently if they earned an 85% in Chemistry or an 80% in Honors Chemistry. 

AP Chemistry 7 credits

Grades 11, 12

The curriculum is designed to prepare students for the Advanced Placement Examination in Chemistry. This course emphasizes the application of the following six “big ideas”: atomic structure, attractive forces between particles, chemical reactions, thermodynamics, chemical kinetics and chemical equilibrium. This course meets for 58 minutes each day of the 4-day cycle, including 1 extended lab period. Prerequisites: Minimum grades of 90% in Chemistry, and Physics or 85%  in Honors Chemistry, AP Physics 1 and 90% in Algebra 2 or 85% in Honors Algebra 2. Students may be enrolled in Physics or AP Physics 1 concurrently if all other prerequisites are met. 

AP Physics C 7 credits

Grades 11, 12

This course is designed to emulate a freshman college physics course in which calculus is employed in derivations and problem-solving. Concepts covered include: Newtonian mechanics, including kinematics, dynamics, work and energy, momentum, rotational mechanics, gravitation, and oscillations as well as classical electricity and magnetism. The use of calculus increases during the year. The laboratory component of the course is intended to provide experiences for students to construct understandings of the topics of study, to think critically, and to develop science-process skills. This course meets for 4.5 periods every four days.  Prerequisites: Must be taking Calculus concurrently or have successfully completed Calculus, a minimum grade of 85% in Pre-Calculus Honors or 90% in Pre-Calculus, and minimum grade of 90% in Physics or 85% in AP Physics 1. 

Astronomy 2.5 credits

Grades 11, 12

This survey course will provide students with a basic knowledge of the facts, principles, and processes of astronomy. This course may be taken concurrently with another science, but it does not replace a biological or physical science and does not meet the 3-year science requirement. Concepts covered include: the phenomena of the Earth, Sun, Moon, planets, stars, galaxies, constellations and cosmology. There is no specific lab period; however, students will engage in the development and limitations of astronomical models. 

Prerequisites: At least a 60% Physics or enrolled in a physics course concurrently and 60% in Algebra 1 and Algebra 2.

Biochemistry 2.5 credits

Grades 11, 12

This course emphasizes chemical reactions as they occur in living organisms. This course may be taken concurrently with another science, but it does not replace a biological or physical science and does not meet the 3-year science requirement.  Concepts covered include: a review of the atomic theory, the importance of water in living things, organic molecule nomenclature, and the chemistry and biology of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and nucleic acids. There is no specific lab period; however, labs will be implemented throughout the semester. 

Prerequisites: At least a 75% in Biology and Chemistry. 

Human Anatomy and Physiology 2.5 credits

Grades 11, 12

This course focuses on the level of organization in organisms. This course may be taken concurrently with another science, but it does not replace a biological or physical science and does not meet the 3-year science requirement. Concepts covered include: the structure and function of the muscular, skeletal, nervous, endocrine, cardiovascular, respiratory, excretory and digestive systems. There is no specific lab period; however, labs will be implemented throughout the course including the dissections of the frog and a mammal. 

Prerequisites: At least a 60% in any level of Biology and Chemistry. 

Introduction to Ecology 2.5 credits

Grades 11, 12

This course is designed to challenge students to examine how ecosystems function and how are they are impacted by their environment. Concepts covered include: nutrient cycling, energy flow, community interactions, population dynamics, biodiversity,  and human impact on the environment, such as water quality, climate change, and endangered species. Special emphasis throughout the course is placed on monitoring human impacts, how these impacts affect ecosystems, and developing potential, practical solutions to these issues. There is no specific lab period; however, students will be required to engage in labs and projects throughout the course.  There is a required field trip during the course that is an inquiry-based field investigation in an outdoor learning environment. This course may be taken concurrently with another science, but it does not replace biological or physical science and does not meet the 3-year science requirement.  The only exception is that a student may not take this course if concurrently enrolled in or has completed the AP Environmental Science Course. 

Prerequisites: At least a 60% in any level of Biology and Chemistry. 

Pharmacology 2.5 credits

Grades 11, 12

This course is designed for students who would like to develop an understanding of how drugs are manufactured and work in our biological systems as well as their impact on a developing brain. Concepts covered include: basic pharmacology, the science of medication actions, sources, chemical properties, classification, uses, therapeutic effect, side-effects, adverse effects, and routes of administration, and the 100 most frequently prescribed drugs. There is no specific lab period; however, students will engage in inquiry-based lab activities. This course may be taken concurrently with another science, but it does not replace biological or physical science and does not meet the 3-year science requirement. Students with an interest in pursuing medical careers such as nursing, medical assistant, psychology, dental technician, dentist, physician or pharmacist will find this course beneficial. 

Prerequisites: At least a 60% in any level of Biology, Chemistry, and 60% in Algebra 1 and Algebra 2. 

Toxicology 2.5 credits

Grades 11, 12

This course will develop the student’s understanding of toxicology and the effects of xenobiotics on the body. Concepts covered include: dose-response relationships, routes of exposure, organ function and the effects of selected xenobiotics on various organs, carcinogenesis and teratogenesis, mechanisms and effects of neurotoxins, effects of radiation, and effects of plant and animal toxins. There is no specific lab period; however, students will engage in inquiry-based lab activities. This course may be taken concurrently with another science, but it does not replace biological or physical science and does not meet the 3-year science requirement.

Prerequisites: At least an 80% in any level of Biology and Chemistry; Biochemistry recommended but not required.

Zoology          2.5 credits   

Grades 11, 12

This semester course would provide students with the ability to survey invertebrate and vertebrate anatomy and physiology from a systems approach using taxonomic criteria.  The focus of the course will include classification, anatomy & physiology and ecological value of invertebrates (sponges, coelenterates, worms, mollusks and arthropods) and vertebrates (fishes, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals).  A representative invertebrate and vertebrate dissection will also be included.This course may be taken concurrently with another science, but it does not replace biological or physical science and does not meet the 3-year science requirement

Prerequisites: At least a 60% in any level of Biology and Chemistry. 

Forensic Science 2.5 credits

Grades 11,12

This semester course provides students an application of science to criminal and civil laws. Students will learn how to properly collect, store, and examine evidence in order to solve crimes. Topics include: blood spatter analysis, serology, fingerprinting, and DNA analysis (to name a few). There is no specific lab period, however, students will engage in inquiry based lab activities throughout the course. This course may be taken concurrently with another science, but it does not replace biological or physical science and does not meet the 3- year science requirement. Prerequisites: At least a 70% in Biology and Chemistry

Marine Science 2.5 credits

Grades 11,12

This semester course is designed for students who would like to develop an understanding of marine science and oceanography. Concepts previously learned in physical and life science courses will be used to explore ocean ecosystems and habitats, coastal environments, and oceanography.  Students will learn the scientific understandings of the biological importance of sea life, diversity of habitats, the fundamentals of oceanography and the human impacts on the sea. Topics will include ocean acidification, biogeochemical cycle, the dead zone, ocean layers, currents, waves, tides, El Nino, technology, plate tectonics, sediments, coastal dynamics, plankton, invertebrates, vertebrates, marine ecosystems, marine policy, and technology.  Laboratory experiments, discussions and projects will be used to evaluate adaptations of marine organisms, ocean physics and chemistry. This course may be taken concurrently with another science, but it does not replace biological or physical science and does not meet the 3- year science requirement. Prerequisites: At least a 70% in Biology and Chemistry

Introduction to Computer Science using Java 2.5 credits

Grades 10, 11, 12

This course introduces the programming and object-oriented techniques of Java.  Students will learn the Object-oriented programming concepts and the fundamentals of the Java language and syntax.  Students will complete project driven exercises with hands on tasks. Additionally, students will have a graphic representation of Java interspersed throughout the course using simulations and games.  This course will enable students to build useful programs while learning the basics of structured and object-oriented programming techniques. (Students may also pursue further study and experiences in this field for additional credits through CTE- Cooperative Work Experience.  See course description for further details.) 

Computer Science II 2.5 credits

Grades 10, 11, 12

A comprehensive look into computer science as it is used in our world today.  Students will be able to enhance their programming abilities and their knowledge base by creating real world programs and applications for mobile devices.  The engaging, relevant content emphasizes programming principles to prepare competitive programmers to meet the increasing demands in business today. Students will be able to demonstrate their understanding of emerging technology to introduce key practical principles and important programming skills. (Students may also pursue further study and experiences in this field for additional credits through CTE- Cooperative Work Experience. See course description for further details.)  Prerequisite: Computer Science using Java.

AP Computer Science Principles 5 credits

Grades 11, 12

AP Computer Science Principles offers a multidisciplinary approach to teaching the underlying principles of computer science. This hands-on course will introduce students to key ideas including the creative aspects of programming, abstractions, data sets, the Internet, cyber security concerns, and the impacts of computing. AP Computer Science Principles will give students the opportunity to use technology to individually and collaboratively address real-world problems and build relevant solutions. Students will use multiple facets of computer science in class to aid in mastering the essential skills required for the AP Computer Science Principles Exam.  (Students may also pursue further study and experiences in this field for additional credits through CTE-Work Experience. See course description for further details.)  Prerequisite: Introduction to Computer Science using Java and Computer Science II.

Introduction to Engineering Design (PLTW) 5 credits

Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

IED provides students with opportunities to be creative and to apply their decision-making and problem-solving skills to design problems. Students use powerful computer hardware and software (AutoDesk Inventor) to develop 3D models or solid renderings of objects. Using a Computer Aided Design System, students learn the product design process through creating, analyzing, rendering and producing a model. The techniques learned, and equipment used, are state of the art and are currently being used by engineers throughout the United States.  This is a course that is part of the Project Lead The Way program (see above). 

Aerospace Engineering (PLTW) 5 credits

Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

Aerospace Engineering exposes students to the world of flight and engineering related to aeronautics and aerospace design. Students work in teams utilizing hands-on activities, projects and problems and are exposed to various situations faced by aerospace engineers. In addition, students use 3D design software to help design solutions to proposed problems. Students design intelligent vehicles to learn about documenting their project, solving problems and communicating their solutions to their peers and members of the professional community. This is a course that is part of the Project Lead The Way program (see above).  Prerequisite: Introduction to Engineering Design or recommendation of the department.

Principles of Engineering (PLTW) 5 credits

Grades 10, 11, 12

This course is intended to introduce the student to the field of engineering and all the aspects related to engineering.  Students will start by looking at the educational path that leads to a career in engineering.  The path of solving technical problems, from design and development, to manufacturing and testing will be covered.  Most of this will be achieved by students working through the process.  Because of the nature of some engineering challenges, there will be some elements of physics, vector math, and statistics involved.  Students will work extensively with computer technology, as well as word processor, spreadsheet and presentation software.  This is a course that is part of the Project Lead The Way program (see above).   Prerequisite: Introduction to Engineering Design or recommendation of the department. 

Computer Integrated Manufacturing/Robotics (PLTW) 5 credits

Grades 11, 12

CIM/Robotics is a course that applies principles of robotics and automation. It builds on computer solid modeling skills developed in Introduction to Engineering Design. Students produce actual models of their three dimensional designs. Fundamental concepts of robotics used in automated manufacturing, and design analysis are included.  This is a course that is part of the Project Lead The Way program (see above). Prerequisite: Introduction to Engineering Design, Aerospace Engineering, Principles of Engineering or recommendation of the department. 

Architectural Design 1     5 credits 

Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 

This course focuses on residential design and construction. Floor planning, architectural style, interior design, energy, site planning, and construction concepts are applied to both computer and hand design drawings and hands on scale modeling. A complete set of plans for a dream house will be drawn including floor plans, elevations, foundation, detail drawings, perspectives and site plans. Each student will build a scale model of their dream home design from their plans generated in the course. The course is a great resource for any future home or business owner or anyone interested in exploring architecture, construction, engineering or other design related fields.

Please click on this link to see how the courses would align by pathway and grade level.