STEAM

Aviation Department

Aviation 1, 5 Credits

Aviation 1 is designed as an entry-level course that introduces high school students to the fascinating world of aviation. This course covers the fundamental principles of flight, including the history of aviation, basic aerodynamics, and the operation of aircraft. Students will engage with both theoretical concepts and hands-on experiences, utilizing our state-of-the-art flight simulator to gain practical insights into the mechanics of flying. Topics to be covered are as follows: History and evolution of aviation; Basic principles of aerodynamics and aircraft systems; Introduction to aviation terminology and procedures; and Flight simulator training: basic controls, navigation, and flight planning. By the end of this course, students will have a foundational understanding of aviation concepts and be able to operate a flight simulator with confidence. This course will provide a solid base for students interested in pursuing further education or careers in aviation.

Aviation 2, 5 Credits

Aviation 2 builds upon the knowledge and skills acquired in Aviation 1, delving deeper into the complexities of aviation technology and advanced flight techniques. This course emphasizes more sophisticated aspects of flying, including advanced navigation, flight safety, and the principles of meteorology. Students will continue to use the flight simulator to enhance their practical skills, with a focus on more complex scenarios and problem-solving. Topics to be covered are as follows: Advanced flight theory and aerodynamics; Complex aircraft systems and operations; Detailed navigation techniques and flight planning; In-depth study of meteorology and its impact on flight; and Flight simulator training: emergency procedures, advanced maneuvers, and real-world scenarios. Students completing this course will gain an in-depth understanding of advanced aviation concepts and improve their practical flying skills. This course is ideal for students looking to further their exploration of aviation or considering a career as a pilot or in aviation-related fields.

Arts Department

AP Art History, 5 Credits

Learn to critically analyze works of art within diverse historical and cultural contexts, considering issues such as politics, religion, patronage, gender, and ethnicity. Explore major forms of artistic expression including architecture, sculpture, painting and other media from across a variety of cultures. Learn about the purpose and function of art as you develop your ability to articulate visual and art historical concepts in verbal and written form.

AP Studio Art, 5 Credits

Learn to use 2-D design principles to organize an image on a picture plane to communicate content. Demonstrate mastery through any two-dimensional medium or process, such as graphic design, digital imaging, photography, collage, fabric design, weaving, fashion design, fashion illustration, painting, and printmaking. Develop technical skills and familiarize yourself with the functions of visual elements as you create an individual portfolio of work for evaluation at the end of the course.

Arts & Crafts, 5 Credits

Arts and Crafts incorporates the four art disciplines of art production, art history, art criticism, and aesthetics, but it is primarily a studio course. It allows students to apply the elements and principles of design to the creation of visual art and craft works in various media (drawing, painting, sculpture, ceramics, macramé/weaving, decorated textiles, lettering, commercial art, etc.)

Fashion Design, 5 Credits

The Introduction to Fashion Design course is intended to offer students a comprehensive overview of many aspects of the fashion design industry. The emphasis of this course is generally career-based and geared toward familiarizing students with skills needed to attend a fashion school or enter the fashion industry, but also teaches students various aspects of art and historical concepts. Developing student interests in textiles, trends, and style, this course will help deepen students’ understanding of the fashion design process that drives the fashion industry. Working with and learning various techniques students will learn how to visualize and render fashion ideas, use research to query the role of fashion in society, and recognize the qualities of a well-designed garment from sketch to final piece. Field trips to museums and department stores and visits from working designers will provide insight into jobs and current ideas in the fashion world.

Theater Production, 5 Credits

Theater Production introduces students to the design aspects of a theatrical production. Students learn the design principles for Scenic, Lighting, Costume, and Sound Design. Students put the principles into action by creating their designs for different genres of theater.

Independent Research in Art, 5 Credits

This independent research course is open to eleventh and twelfth-grade students. It is designed to offer students the opportunity for intensive, personalized study in a specific area, of their choice, in one of the visual arts or crafts. A program of study and/or research proposal will be developed jointly by the student and teacher. An independent in-depth project will be submitted by the student to be graded on a pass/fail basis. Counseling supervision and evaluation will be provided by the Art teacher. Admission requirements: Successful completion of Art I, approval of teacher, counselor, and the high school principal.

Broadcast Journalism, 5 credits

This course is open to students in 9th -12th grades. They begin learning the meaning of the phrase Broadcast Journalism and what is involved in the Broadcast Journalism production process. They learn about the equipment used, the philosophy of Journalism, and how to tell a story using video, sound, and graphics. Throughout the year students produce and edit television-style news stories, documentaries, and interviews. In the practicum phase of the course,, students will be responsible for producing Weehawken High School's daily announcements and newscasts. In addition to learning all aspects of the video production process students, most importantly, learn about the career opportunities available in the Broadcast Journalism industry, how to acquire one and how to keep it.

Fine Arts, 5 Credits

Fine Arts is designed to provide high school students with a comprehensive exploration of various artistic disciplines, including visual arts, music, theater, and dance. This course aims to develop students' artistic skills, enhance their creativity, and deepen their appreciation for the arts. Students will engage in hands-on projects, performances, and critiques, allowing them to explore different mediums and express their artistic voices. Topics to be covered are as follows: Visual Arts: Introduction to drawing, painting, sculpture, and digital media; Music: Basics of music theory, composition, and performance; Theater: Fundamentals of acting, stagecraft, and script analysis; Dance: Exploration of different dance styles, including contemporary, ballet, and hip-hop; Art Appreciation: Understanding the historical and cultural contexts of various art forms; and the Creative Process: Techniques for developing and refining artistic ideas, including concept development, problem-solving, and presentation. By the end of this course, students will have gained a broad understanding of the fine arts and developed their skills across multiple disciplines. They will be able to create, perform, and critique works of art with confidence and express themselves creatively. This course aims to foster a lifelong appreciation for the arts and inspire students to pursue further study or careers in artistic fields.

AP Music, 5 Credits

AP Music Theory is a college-level music theory course that covers a variety of topics and skills including dictation and ear training, sight-singing, analysis of musical form and structure, chords and harmony, and more. Through the course, students develop the ability to recognize, understand, and describe basic foundations and processes of tonal music that are heard or presented in a written musical score. The development of aural (listening) skills is a primary objective. Performance is also part of the curriculum through the practice of sight-singing. It is highly recommended that students have participated in the WHS Band program for at least 2 years before taking this course, or that students have studied an instrument privately outside of school for multiple years before enrolling in this course.

Wind Music Ensemble/Concert Band, 5 Credits

Wind Ensemble and Concert Band are instrumental music ensembles open to ninth, tenth, eleventh, and twelfth-grade students. Students are placed into each of the two ensembles based on auditions completed in the prior school year. Both ensembles study a variety of concert ensemble literature, instrumental technique, music theory basics, and more, and perform on multiple occasions for both school and community events throughout the school year. No prior instrumental music experience is required, though it is recommended. Instruments are provided at no cost to students who participate in the band program. To perform in the Weehawken HS Marching Band, all wind/percussion players must be enrolled in one of these two band courses. Students interested in studying multiple instruments may take both classes with prior approval from the band director.

Choral Music, 2.5 Credits

Choral Music Ensemble is open to grades nine through twelve. All students will develop the ability to adequately sing in the choral ensemble and will be welcomed by the choral director. The Weehawken High School Choral Ensemble offers a variety of activities to stimulate and encourage the growth of students interested in performing vocal music. As proficiency in performance grows, the choral ensemble will perform a wide scope of music, ranging from chorales to special arrangements of works from famous composers. Students will develop vocal techniques and music theory for the sole purpose of creating performance opportunities that may be frequent and varied throughout the school year. The performances of the vocal ensemble may include community events, Winter and Spring concerts, and competitive festivals. Any student at Weehawken High School may enroll in the vocal ensemble class.

Independent Research in Music, 5 Credits

This independent research course is open to eleventh and twelfth-grade students. It is designed to offer students the opportunity for intensive, personalized study in a specific area, of their choice, in music. A program of study and/or research proposal will be developed jointly by the student and teacher. An independent in-depth project will be submitted by the student to be graded on a pass/fail basis. Counseling supervision and evaluation will be provided by the Music teacher.

Admission requirements: Successful completion of music course, approval of teacher, counselor, and the high school principal.

Culinary Arts I, 5 Credits

In this course students learn basic food principles including selection and cooking by a variety of different methods and various ways of storage. Through kitchen work and class instruction, students acquire fundamental knowledge and skills in food preparation, kitchen management, nutrition, and exploration of ethnic dishes. The skills developed during this course provide expanded competency in food handling as well as preparation for more advanced study. Students may only take two years of Culinary Arts.

Pastry, 5 Credits

Students in this course will learn the basic food principles of storing ingredients and utilizing them when baking pastries and decorating them. Students will learn about pastries from around the world and will practice different recipes.

Independent Research in Culinary Arts, 5 Credits

This independent research course is open to eleventh and twelfth-grade students. It is designed to offer students the opportunity for intensive, personalized study in a specific area, of their choice, in one of the culinary arts. A program of study and/or research proposal will be developed jointly by the student and teacher. An independent in-depth project will be submitted by the student to be graded on a pass/fail basis. Counseling supervision and evaluation will be provided by the Culinary Arts teacher.

Admission requirements: Successful completion of Culinary Arts, approval of teacher, counselor, and the high school principal.

Music Technology, 5 Credits

This course explores the various uses of technology in the music world of the 21st century. Extensive hands-on work will be done using computers and synthesizers to arrange, compose, and orchestrate music using different software - Garageband, Pro-Tools, Sibelius, Finale, and Logic. Students will work in fundamental areas such as harmony, form, timbre, and orchestration, as well as arranging, audio engineering, stage set-up, producing, composition, and recording techniques. This course is intended for students who are planning on majoring or minoring in music in college, but not exclusive to only those students.

Business, Intro to Sports Marketing, 5 Credits

Intro to Sports Marketing introduces students to the dynamic field of sports marketing and management. This course explores the strategies and techniques used to promote and sell sports events, teams, and products. Students will gain insight into the relationship between sports and business, and learn how marketing principles are applied within the sports industry. Through hands-on projects, case studies, and real-world applications, students will develop a foundational understanding of sports marketing and its impact on both the industry and consumer behavior. Topics to be covered are as follows: Fundamentals of Sports Marketing; Market Research and Analysis; Promotion and Advertising; Brand Management; Event Planning and Management; Digital and Social Media Marketing; and Ethics and Legal Issues. By the end of this course, students will have a comprehensive understanding of sports marketing concepts and practices. They will be able to apply marketing strategies to various aspects of the sports industry and develop the skills necessary to pursue further education or careers in sports marketing and management.

Mathematics Department

Algebra I, 5 Credits

This course offers opportunities to improve problem-solving and reasoning skills. Because of the ability of the students and their preparation in eighth grade, the development of algebraic topics is rigorous. Topics are covered with great depth challenging the students’ abilities. Students will find opportunities to use skills in everyday life as well as in theoretical situations.

Geometry, 5 Credits

This course is designed for students who have completed Algebra I. Geometry enables students to develop a logical system of thinking by using present knowledge to develop solutions to new situations. Definitions, postulates, theorems, and proofs are studied and used to provide information on congruent and similar triangles, special and similar polygons, circles, coordinate geometry, and area and volume.

Geometry Honors, 5 Credits

Algebra II, 5 Credits

This course is primarily designed for students who have completed Geometry. In this course, the study of the structure of our number system is extended to cover real and complex numbers with applications of techniques, concepts, and skills from Algebra and Trigonometry. Algebra II is required by all colleges and universities.

Algebra II Honors, 5 Credits

This course is primarily designed for students who have completed Geometry in ninth grade. In this course, the study of the structure of our number system is extended to cover real and complex numbers, with an application of techniques, concepts, and skills to Algebra and Trigonometry. Algebra II is required by many four-year colleges and universities.

Admission requirements: recommendation of Geometry teacher; cumulative weighted grade point average of 3.0; un-weighted grade point average of 3.0 in geometry.

PreCalculus, 5 Credits

This course is offered to eleventh and twelfth-grade students who have completed Algebra II. Topics to be covered include Trigonometry, Advanced Algebra, and an introduction to Analytic Geometry and Calculus. This course provides students with sufficient background to proceed directly to a course in Calculus. It is recommended for students who are planning careers in Mathematics, Engineering, Science, or Accounting.

Admission requirements: completion of Algebra II with a grade of 3.0 or better; approval of teacher; cumulative weighted grade point average of 3.0.

PreCalculus Honors, 5 credits

Admission requirements: completion of Algebra II with a grade of 3.0 or better; approval of teacher; cumulative weighted grade point average of 3.0.

Financial Literacy, 5 Credits

Financial Literacy is designed to equip students with essential money management skills and knowledge. This course covers fundamental financial concepts, including budgeting, saving, investing, credit, and financial planning. Through practical activities, real-world case studies, and interactive exercises, students will learn how to make informed financial decisions and develop a solid foundation for managing their finances. Topics to be covered are as follows: Budgeting and Saving; Banking and Financial Services; Investing Basics; Credit and Debt Management; Consumer Awareness; and Financial Planning. By the end of this course, students will have developed practical skills for managing their finances, understanding financial products, and making informed financial decisions. This course aims to empower students with the knowledge they need to establish sound financial habits and prepare for financial independence in the future.

AP Calculus, 5 credits

The Calculus Advanced Placement course is designed to emphasize Definitions and Theorems, Proofs, Graphics, The Cartesian Plane and Functions, Limits and Their Properties, Differentiation, Applications of Differentiation, Integration and Applications, Exponential and Logarithmic Functions, Trigonometric Functions and Inverse Trigonometric Functions; all of which are needed to succeed in college as well as to pass the Advanced Placement exam given in the Spring.

AP Statistics, 5 credits

The Statistics Advanced Placement course is divided into four areas: Exploratory Analysis, Planning a Study, Probability, and Statistical Inference. Exploratory Analysis of data makes use of graphical and numerical techniques to study patterns and departures from patterns. Data must be collected according to a well-developed plan if valid information on a conjecture is to be obtained. Probability is the tool used for anticipating what the distribution of data should look like under a given model. Statistical Inference guides the selection of appropriate models. The goal is to pass the Advanced Placement Test given in the spring of each year.

Intro to Stats, 5 credits

Intro to Statistics is an introductory course intended for students in a wide variety of areas of study. Topics discussed include displaying and describing data, the normal curve, regression, probability, statistical inference, confidence intervals, and hypothesis tests with applications in the real world. Students also have the opportunity to analyze data sets using technology.

Independent Study in Mathematics, 5 Credits

This course is designed to meet the needs of students who wish to pursue concepts in mathematics through a personalized learning plan. Students will be assigned a Mathematics Mentor based on the branch of mathematics under study. The student will create a project that will foster the student’s career goals, will use technology, and is approved by the Mentor and the Principal. The student will be encouraged to use any number of research possibilities and technology including materials external to the school facility.

Real World of Math, 5 credits

Real World of Math covers Consumer Arithmetic, Maths & Health, Maths & Driving, Maths & Communication, Maths & Resources, and Mental Computation.

Science Department

Freshmen Physics, 5 credits

The course is Algebra 1-based physics and meets the NGSS for high school physics. It begins with an introduction to science, physics, and word problem-solving. We shall move on to simplified 1D Kinematics, Newton's Laws of Motion, and circular motion. This is followed by Newton's law of gravitation and applications, and conservation of energy and momentum. Next, we briefly cover thermal energy and phase change. We move on to Electricity and basic circuits, introducing Coulomb's Law. This is followed by Magnetism, and Optics, Wave Phenomena, and Electromagnetic Radiation. Students will gain a familiarity with physics experimentation, with the same exciting labs as the Honors students, preparing them for AP courses, and beyond, for college.

Biology Lab, 5 credits

This course is primarily a tenth-grade course. However, it is open to eleventh and twelfth-grade students and is designed to meet the needs of all students regardless of career plans. Biology introduces the students to the chemical and physical processes of living organisms. This course covers scientific concepts such as nutrient cycling, ecosystem dynamics, evolution, cellular systems, and genetics. These topics are paired with modeling activities, analysis of data, and composition of evidence and conclusive reasoning.

Biology Lab Honors, 5 credits

This course is primarily designed for ninth-grade students who have achieved a high scholastic average in General Science. Biology Honors introduces the student to nutrient cycling, ecosystem dynamics, evolution, cellular systems, and genetics. These topics are paired with modeling activities, complex analysis of data, and composition of evidence and conclusive reasoning. There is considerable emphasis on mathematical applications to data analysis. Student-centered learning activities help to develop proper techniques in laboratory methods to the application of scientific methods, investigative skills, and reasoning abilities. Students are expected to complete lab calculations, accomplish considerable independent inquiry projects, and be fully involved in classroom discussions. Admission requirements: cumulative weighted grade point average of 3.0; un-weighted grade point average of 3.0 in Science 8; Science 8 teacher recommendation.

Chemistry Lab, 5 credits

Chemistry is open to eleventh and twelfth-grade students who intend to further pursue academic or technical training. It is the study of different substances and the changes they undergo. Chemistry uses the study of atoms and molecules to develop the student’s investigative reasoning abilities. There is stress on mathematical applications of chemical theories therefore Algebra II is a co/prerequisite. Students conduct their problem-solving. Detailed lab reports for each experiment are required for successful completion of this course.

Chemistry Honors Lab, 5 credits

Chemistry Honors is open to any student who meets the criteria. It is the study of different substances and the changes they undergo. Chemistry uses the study of atoms and molecules to develop the students’ investigative reasoning abilities. There is stress on mathematical applications of chemical theories so a background in Algebra II is required. In laboratory experiments, students learn to solve problems. Detailed lab reports for each experiment are required for successful completion of this course.

AP Biology, 5 credits

The AP Biology course is designed to be the equivalent of a college introductory biology course usually taken by biology majors during their first year. This course is significantly different from the first high school course in biology in the textbook used, the range and depths of topics studied, and the kind of laboratory work required. General areas of study include molecules and cells; genetics and evolution; and organisms and populations. The goal of the AP Biology course is to provide a learning environment that enables students to develop a detailed understanding of the principal concepts of biology. All students are expected to take the AP Biology exam in early May. This course is best taken after the successful completion of a chemistry course.

AP Environmental Science

Explore and investigate the interrelationships of the natural world, identify and analyze environmental problems, both natural and human-made, evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and examine alternative solutions for resolving and/or preventing them. Participate in hands-on, laboratory, and field investigations to apply scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies to better understand our natural systems and to critically think about environmental issues and potential solutions.

Geoscience, 5 credits

This course follows the NGSS standards for Earth Science and is a comprehensive account of Earth landforms; Climate, weather, atmosphere, and oceans; plate tectonics, and volcanism. We will also cover Astronomy, the human impact on the earth, and the major environmental issues, including global warming and the greenhouse effect.

Meteorology Lab, 5 credits

This course is open to eleventh and twelfth graders who have completed General Science and Biology. Meteorology is designed to give students a basic understanding of the atmosphere, its processes, and its interactions with the Earth’s system. This course aims to foster critical thinking and to promote confidence in handling lab material and the use of real-time data available on the internet.

AP Computer Science Principles, 5 Credits

Whether it's 3-D Animation, engineering, music, app development, medicine, visual design, robotics, or political analysis, computer science is the engine that powers the technology, productivity, and innovation that drives the world. Computer science experience has become imperative for today's students and the workforce of tomorrow. The AP Program designed this course to create leaders in computer science fields and attract and engage those who are traditionally underrepresented with essential computing tools and multidisciplinary opportunities. The AP Computer Science Principles course will complement AP Computer Science and will focus on the fundamentals of computing, including problem-solving, large-scale data, the Internet, and cybersecurity. Students are required to take the AP Exam.

Intro to Engineering Design, 5 Credits

How do bridges hold the weight of so many cars? Are buildings supposed to sway in heavy winds? What role do robots play in the real world? This semester's course emphasizes the application of integrated STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) principles and the design process to design and fabricate models and prototypes. Problem-solving and design skills are taught through a variety of activities, with a specific focus on structures and robotics. This course provides all students with valuable skills such as problem-solving, design and creativity, systems thinking, teamwork, documentation, computer applications, and exposure to 3D printing.

Robotics, 5 Credits

Robotics introduces students to the fundamental principles of mechanical design with an emphasis on robotic and mechanical systems. Students will construct robots using mechanical systems and programming to address a variety of Engineering design challenges. Electronic fundamentals and wireless communication will be introduced as part of the design challenges. Major emphasis is placed on learning how these systems are designed, manufactured, and applied to real-world problems.

Honors Physics 8

This is an Honors Algebra-based course in High School Physics that meets the Next Generation Science Standards as a pre-AP course; the problem-solving and topics covered are more challenging than Freshman Physics. The course will begin with an introduction to science, physics, and word problem-solving. The course covers Newton's Laws of Motion, Newton's law of gravitation Kepler's Laws, and the conservation of energy and momentum. We briefly cover thermal energy and phase change. We cover Electricity and basic circuits; Coulomb's Law; Magnetism and Electromagnetic Induction. Finally, Optics, Wave Phenomena, and Electromagnetic Radiation, including the Photoelectric Effect and Planck's Black Body Radiation. Students will gain a familiarity with physics experimentation, giving them just a taste of a professional Physics career.

Independent Research in Science, 5 credits

This independent research course is open to 10th, 11th, and 12th grade students upon referral by a faculty member and an administrator. It is designed to offer students the opportunity to develop proper research techniques. Submission of a research proposal will be followed by an independent in-depth research project.

Admission requirements: approval from two science teachers, the school counselor, and the high school principal.

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