AP Biology

Course Description

AP Biology is an introductory college-level biology course. Students cultivate their understanding of biology through inquiry-based investigations as they explore the following topics: evolution, cellular processes - energy and communication, genetics, information transfer, ecology and interactions.Students who take AP Biology will develop advanced inquiry and reasoning skills, such as designing a plan for collecting data, analyzing data, applying mathematical routines, and connecting concepts in and across domains. (College Board)

Goals of AP Biology

Upon successful completion of the course, the students will be able to:

• Understand that a change in the genetic makeup of a population over time is evolution and that the origin of living systems is explained by natural processes
• Explain how growth, reproduction and maintenance of living systems requires free energy and matter
• Explain how organisms control / regulate internal and external environments
• Explain how heritable information provides for the diversity and continuity of life
• Understand that interactions within biological systems lead to complex properties
• Use representations and models to communicate scientific phenomena and solve scientific problems
• Engage in scientific questioning to extend thinking or to guide investigations
• Plan and implement data collection then analyze and evaluate the data
• Connect and relate knowledge across various scales, concepts and representations in and across domains

These goals will be met through discussion, guided practice, reading historical and current documents, independent study, laboratory investigations and more.

Topic Outline

The AP Biology course is organized around four Big Ideas:

1.       The process of evolution drives the diversity and unit of life
2.       Biological systems utilize free energy and molecular building blocks to grow, to reproduce, and to maintain dynamic homeostasis
3.       Living systems store, retrieve, transmit, and respond to information essential to life processes
4.       Biological systems interact, and these systems and their interactions possess complex properties.

The concepts covered include biochemistry, cell structure and transport, cellular respiration and photosynthesis, DNA and protein synthesis, gene regulation, cell cycle, biotechnology, genetics, evolution, diversity of life, plant anatomy and physiology, human body systems (endocrine, nervous, immune), and ecology.

AP Calculus

Course description:

AP Calculus is a two-semester linked course – AP Calculus AB and AP Calculus BC. Students are recommended to sign up for both semesters of the class, however, students may take AB only with the understanding that they cannot take BC as a stand-alone course the following year.  The curriculum for AB is equivalent to a first-semester college calculus course, while BC is an extension of this course to cover the subsequent single-variable calculus course which would be a second-semester college calculus course.  Consistent with AP philosophy, all concepts will be expressed and analyzed geometrically, numerically, analytically, and verbally.  While technology is an important aspect of this course, students are expected to have a very strong background in mathematics and will be expected to solve and analyze problems without the aid of technology for a large portion of the course. Any student taking AB only will need to plan on doing independent AP review to be adequately prepared for the AP exam. 

 

There is summer work for this course which reviews the Precalculus concepts students will apply throughout the course and should be fluent with prior to entering the course.

Topic Outline:

AP Calculus is organized around the following major concepts:

• Limits and their properties
• Differentiation
• Applications of Differentiation
• Integration
• Logarithmic, Exponential, and other Transcendental Functions including applications with differential equations
• Applications of Integration
• L’Hospital’s Rule and indeterminate forms for evaluating limits

Additional BC Topics:

• Integration Techniques including Improper integrals
• Infinite Sequences and Series – Convergence testing
• Power Series and manipulations – including Taylor polynomials and their use in approximations of transcendental functions
• Parametric Equations, Vectors, and Polar Curves – including applications to tangent lines, motion, and the area between curves

AP Computer Science A

Course description 

The course introduces students to computer science with fundamental topics that include problem solving, design strategies and methodologies, data structures, algorithms, and the ethical and social implications of computing.  The course emphasizes both object-oriented and imperative problem solving and design.

Goals of AP Computer Science A Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to 

• Correctly solve given problems in java code.
• Analyze given code to find errors.
• Use data structures to simplify code.
• Use sorting and searching techniques.
• Understand ethical and social implications of computing systems.

Topic Outline for AP Computer Science A 

The AP Computer Science A course is organized around five major topics: 

• Basic Java 
•  Methods
• Classes and Object-Oriented Programming 
• Data Structures
• Algorithms and Recursion

AP Computer Science Principles

Course description 

The course offers a multidisciplinary approach to teaching the underlying principles of computation.  The course will introduce students to the creative aspects of programming, abstractions, algorithms, large data sets, the Internet, cybersecurity concerns, and computing impacts.  AP Computer Science Principles also gives students the opportunity to use current technologies to create computational artifacts for both self-expression and problem solving.

Goals of AP Computer Science Principles Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to 

• Create a basic web page
• Develop computational thinking skills vital for success across all disciplines
• Analyze and study data
• Draw conclusions from trends
• Develop computational artifacts
• Develop communication and collaboration skills while problem solving

Topic Outline for AP Computer Science Principles 

The AP Computer Science Principles course is organized around eight major topics: 

• Web Development 
• Programming with JavaScript 
• JavaScript Control Structures
• Functions and Parameters 
• Basic Data Structures
• Digital Information
• The Internet
• Data

AP Environmental Science

Course Description:

The goal of the AP Environmental Science course is to provide students with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world, to identify and analyze environmental problems both natural and human-made, to evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and to examine alternative solutions for resolving or preventing them.

Topic Outline:

• Earth Systems and Resources
• Ecology
• Population and Population Dynamics
• Water Resources and Water Pollution
• Energy
• Air and Air pollution
• Human Toxicology

Prerequisites

The AP Environmental Science course is an excellent option for any interested student who has completed two years of high school laboratory science — one year of life science and one year of physical science (for example, a year of biology and a year of chemistry). Due to the quantitative analysis that is required in the course, students should also have taken at least one year of algebra.

AP Human Geography

Course description 

The course introduces students to the systematic study of patterns and processes that have shaped human understanding, use, and alteration of Earth’s surface. Students employ spatial concepts and landscape analysis to examine socioeconomic organization and its environmental consequences. They also learn about the methods and tools geographers use in their research and applications.

Goals of AP Human Geography Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to 

• Interpret maps and analyze geospatial data;
• Understand and explain the implications of associations and networks among phenomena in places;
• Recognize and interpret the relationships among patterns and processes at different scales of analysis;
• Define regions and evaluate the regionalization process; and 
• Characterize and analyze changing interconnections among places. 

Topic Outline for AP Human Geography 

The AP Human Geography course is organized around seven major topics: 

• Geography: Its Nature and Perspectives 
• Population and Migration 
• Cultural Patterns and Processes 
• Political Organization of Space 
• Agriculture, Food Production, and Rural Land Use 
• Industrialization and Economic Development
• Cities and Urban Land Use

AP Language & Composition (11th Grade English)

Course Overview

The AP English Language and Composition course is a unique learning experience requiring diligence, commitment, and a willingness to delve into the many layers of literature. Equivalent to a freshman college English course, this class studies how an author creates purpose through language, rhetorical choices, and genre conventions. Students will explore many novels, essays, and short stories as well as literary terms, rhetorical devices, and language.  The goal of this course is to challenge students to become deeper and more analytical writers and thinkers, and to prepare students for college level English courses.

Course Objectives

• Analyze and interpret samples of good writing; identify and explain author’s use of rhetorical strategies and techniques
• Apply effective strategies and techniques in writing
• Create and sustain arguments based on readings, research, and personal experience
• Demonstrate understanding and mastery of standard written English as well as stylistic maturity in writing
• Produce expository, analytical, and argumentative compositions that introduce a complex, central idea and develop it with appropriate evidence drawn from primary or secondary source material
• Demonstrate understanding of conventions of citing primary and secondary source material
• Move effectively through the stages of the writing process
• Analyze images as text

Required or Recommended Prerequisites

Students entering AP Language and Composition should be recommended by their English II teacher.  Students without a recommendation should speak with an AP Lang teacher prior to enrolling. Students should enter with a strong command of the English language.  Students should be committed to completing Summer Work, ONE hour of homework per night, purchasing (or using a public library) additional novel. Successful AP Lang students are enthusiastic about writing, analytical reading and willing to share in class discussions.

AP Physics 1 - AP Physics 1 is an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course. Students cultivate their understanding of physics through classroom study, in-class activity, and hands-on, inquiry-based laboratory work as they explore the following concepts: kinematics, forces and dynamics, gravitation, circular and rotational motion, work, energy, power, momentum, waves and harmonics, and electric fields and force.
APP1 is a one-semester course offered to Juniors & Seniors who are concurrently enrolled or have passed precalculus.
25% of the instruction will be spent in the laboratory setting

AP Physics 2 - AP Physics 2 is an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course. Students cultivate their understanding of physics through classroom study, in-class activity, and hands-on, inquiry-based laboratory work as they explore the following concepts: electric fields and force, AC and DC circuits, magnetism, pressure & fluids, thermodynamics, optics, and nuclear / modern physics.
APP1 is a one-semester course offered to Juniors & Seniors who have taken / passed AP Physics 1.
APP1 & APP2 do not have to be taken the same year!
25% of the instruction will be spent in the laboratory setting

I highly recommend taking AP Physics courses if you are planning on entering any field of engineering or the medical field (MCAT preparation).
These courses are designed to prepare you for college level science courses.
These courses are math-intensive.

AP Psychology

The purpose of the AP course in Psychology is to introduce the systematic and scientific study of the behavior and mental processes of human beings and other animals. Included is a consideration of the psychological facts, principles, and phenomena associated with each of the major subfields within psychology. Students also learn about the ethics and methods psychologists use in their science and practice.

 

Goals of AP Psychology

• Describe and compare different theoretical approaches in explaining behavior.
• Describe how research design drives the reasonable conclusions that can be drawn.
• Identify basic processes and systems in the biological bases of behavior.
• Apply learning principles and methods to explain human behavior.
• Identify key contributors in the vast field of psychology.
• Compare and contrast various cognitive processes.
• Discuss the interaction of nature and nurture (including cultural variations) in the determination of behavior.
• Compare and contrast the major theories and approaches to explaining personality, intelligence, development, emotion, psychological disorders and other human cognitive processes.

Topical outline of AP Psychology

• History and Approaches
• Research Methods
• Biological Bases of Behavior
• Sensation and Perception
• States of Consciousness
• Learning
• Cognition
• Motivation and Emotion
• Developmental Psychology
• Personality
• Abnormal Behavior and treatment
• Social Psychology

AP Literature and Composition (12th Grade English)

There is no better place than an AP English class to learn and appreciate the miraculous power of words and how to intelligently use these words to articulate and explain ideas! This AP English class carefully explores and examines literature and hones expository and analytical writing skills through position papers, timed response papers, essay exams and fully developed essays.

The focus of this class is the rigorous study and understanding of many renowned literary genre and the equally challenging task of learning to clearly and intelligently express the discerning readers’ insights in class discussions, group collaboration and well-written essay exams and formal essays.

Studying and recognizing literary techniques, developing analytical writing skills,  learning to read and understand even the more subtle nuance of literary analysis,  and practicing and mastering AP exam strategies will not only prepare students for the AP exam, but also for the rigor of college level classes.

The proper use of literary devices, varied syntax, well-developed paragraphs, proper use of transitional devices and coherency are the goals in all writing endeavors.

Understanding and utilizing the Socratic discussion method is important for success in group and class discussions.

AP Spanish

AP Statistics

What is AP Statistics?

AP Statistics is a course offered through the AP Program of the College Board. The course is a college-level subject that allows a student to earn college credit upon the successful completion of the AP Exam given in May.

What does the course cover?

There are four major areas covered in AP Statistics:

• Exploring Data teaches students to describe patterns and displays of data.
• Sampling and Experimentation show students how to plan and conduct a study or an experiment.
• Anticipating Patterns includes probability and simulation, which set the foundation for our final topic…
• The course concludes with Statistical Inference which includes estimating parameters and testing hypotheses. The emphasis is both on calculations and on interpretations of results.

What materials do I need?

The most important item needed for AP Statistics is a graphing calculator with statistical features. The TI-84 is the calculator used in class. A TI-83 Plus is comparable. It is highly recommended that a student have his/her calculator so that practice can be done at home.

What skills do I need to take AP Statistics?

The minimum math skills needed for AP Statistics is success in Honors Math 3. If you are concerned about your math skills, however, it is usually best to complete AFM or Pre-calculus before attempting AP Statistics. Good writing skills are necessary for the interpretation of data. More importantly, a great work ethic and maturity are essential for success in statistics.

For More information contact:

Ed Tharrington etharrington@wcpss.net

AP Studio Art Course Overview in 2D Design, 3D Design and Drawing

The AP Studio Art Program consists of three portfolio exams—2-D Design, 3-D Design, and Drawing corresponding to the college foundation courses in art. Portfolios allow flexibility of coursework while guiding students to produce college-level quality, artistic investigation, and breadth of work. Students may select one or more portfolios to complete over one year.

-The 2-D Design portfolio addresses two-dimensional design issues and involves decision making about how to use the elements and principles of art in an integrative way. Students' portfolios demonstrate skills and ideas developed, refined, and applied throughout the course to produce visual compositions.

-The 3-D Design portfolio addresses three-dimensional design issues and involves decision making about how to use the elements and principles of art in an integrative way and applying to the 3D form. Students explore sculptural issues and understand 3-D design principles as they relate to the integration of depth and space, volume and surface.

- The Drawing portfolio explores drawing issues including line quality, light and shade, rendering of form, composition, surface manipulation, the illusion of depth and mark-making through a variety of means, such as painting, printmaking or mixed media.

Students submit portfolios in May consisting of three separate sections demonstrating artistic investigations in the portfolio of choice. Each portfolio has the following sections. Section 1 is physically submitted to College Board with the exception of 3D and Sections II and III are submitted online.

Section I Selected Works (Quality) — 5 actual works | 33.3% of portfolio score

* Includes works that exhibit the synthesis of form, technique, and content. (5 best pieces)

Section II Sustained Investigation (Concentration) — 12 digital images | 33.3% of portfolio score

* Create a body of works that demonstrates sustained investigation of a specific visual idea

Section III Range of Approaches (Breadth) — 12 digital images | 33.3% of portfolio score

* Demonstrates understanding of design or drawing issues through a variety of works.

AP US History

The AP U.S. History course focuses on the development of disciplinary practices and reasoning skills and an understanding of content organized around seven themes:

• American and National Identity
• Politics and Power
• Work, Exchange, and Technology
• Culture and Society
• Migration and Settlement
• Geography and the Environment
• America in the World

The course is divided into nine chronological periods (some units overlap chronologically due to the different concepts covered in each unit):

• 1491-1607
• 1607-1754
• 1754-1800
• 1800-1848
• 1844-1877
• 1865-1898
• 1890-1945
• 1945-1980
• 1980-present

In this course, you’ll develop the AP history disciplinary practices and reasoning skills:

• Practice 1: Analyzing historical evidence
• Practice 2: Argument development
• Skill 1: Contextualization
• Skill 2: Comparison
• Skill 3: Causation
• Skill 4: Continuity and change over time

AP United States History will:

• Provide you with the reasoning skills and enduring understandings necessary to deal critically with the main issues and documents of U.S. history
• Prepare you for intermediate and advanced college courses by making demands upon you equivalent to those made by full-year introductory college courses
• Enable you to assess historical sources — their relevance to a given interpretive problem, their reliability, and their importance — and to weigh the evidence and interpretations of the past presented in historical scholarship
• Develop the skills necessary to arrive at conclusions of informed judgment and to present reasons and evidence clearly and persuasively in an essay format
• Train you to analyze and interpret primary sources, including documentary materials, maps, statistical tables, and pictorial and graphic evidence of historical events
• Teach you to take notes from both printed materials and lectures or discussions, to write essay examinations, and to write analytical and research papers
• Enable you to express yourself with clarity and precision and know how to cite sources and credit the phrases and ideas of others