Magnet Courses

RESEARCH BASED ANALYSIS H  (MT620)

Grades 10; 5 credits; One Year Requirement for the Math/Science Magnet Program; Prerequisites: Algebra 2 H and Geometry H; enrollment in the Magnet Program 

RBA introduces students to the fundamental principles of statistics and scientific research.  These include analysis of variance, probability theory, hypothesis testing and others. Students both analyze published research studies and develop studies of their own.  Original research is then conducted in groups or individually. 

AP SEMINAR(SC631)      

Grade 11; 5 credits; One Year Elective; Prerequisite: Successful completion of RBA and enrollment in the Math and Science Magnet Program.

AP Seminar is a course that engages students in cross-curricular conversations that explore the complexities of academic and real-world topics and issues by analyzing divergent perspectives. Using an inquiry framework and Forensic Science Point of view, students will practice reading and analyzing articles, research studies, and foundational, literary, and philosophical texts; listening to and viewing speeches, broadcasts, and personal accounts; and experiencing artistic works and performances. Students will incorporate Biochemistry, Chemistry, and Physics into their investigations. Students will conduct case studies, laboratory activities, and field studies to develop support for their arguments and defend their hypotheses. Students will learn to synthesize information from multiple sources, develop their own perspectives in research-based written essays, and design and deliver oral and visual presentations, both individually and as part of a team. In addition, students will be trained in critical reading and technical writing so that they will be able to communicate convincing arguments through research writing. Ultimately, the course aims to equip students with the power to analyze and evaluate information with accuracy and precision in order to craft and communicate evidence-based arguments. A special emphasis will be given to the mathematical and scientific toolbox that the students learned in RBA I. Students in this course will be required to take the AP exam. This course has a required Summer Assignment.           

AP RESEARCH (SC641)

Grade 12; 5 credits; One Year Required. Prerequisite: RBA & AP Seminar, Corequisite: Enrollment in the Math and Science Magnet Program.

AP Research is the second course in the AP Capstone experience. This course allows students to deeply explore an academic topic, problem, issue, or idea of individual interest. Students design, plan, and implement a yearlong investigation to address a research question. Through this inquiry, they further the skills they acquired in the AP Seminar course by learning research methodology, employing ethical research practices, and accessing, analyzing, and synthesizing information. Students will incorporate Biology, Chemistry, & Physics into their investigations Students reflect on their skill development, document their processes, and curate the artifacts of their scholarly work through a process and reflection portfolio. The course will culminate in a 4,000 to 5,000 word academic thesis, presentation, and oral defense. Throughout the course, emphasis will be given to the mathematical, scientific, and critical thinking tools learned in RBA I and AP Seminar. Students who take this course will be required to take the AP assessment. This course has a required Summer Assignment.