AP - ECE

AP Language and Composition   1 Credit                              Course No. 048
Level 1
Trimesters: 2
Prerequisite:  A minimum grade of a B+ in course 035 (American Literature level 1), or a minimum of an A in course 036 (American Literature level 2), AND teacher recommendation.    

The AP English Language and Composition course focuses on the development and revision of evidence-based analytic and argumentative writing, the rhetorical analysis of nonfiction texts, and the decisions writers make as they compose and revise. Students evaluate, synthesize, and cite research to support their arguments. Additionally, they read and analyze rhetorical elements and their effects in nonfiction texts—including images as forms of text— from a range of disciplines, cultures, and historical periods.
 

AP English (Literature & Composition)   1.5 DHHS Credits                                        Course No. 041
(Seminar in Writing through Literature: ENGL 1007)  8 UCONN Credits
Level 1          
Trimesters: 3 

Prerequisite:  A minimum of a B+ in a Level 1 English course and teacher recommendation. 

This course is part of the University of Connecticut’s Early College Experience Program. Students may also earn college credit or Advanced Placement status by good performance on the Advanced Placement examinations. Only students who are registered in the UConn/ECE program for this course and earn a passing grade will receive UConn/ECE credit.

AP/UConn English requires students to become skilled readers of literature written in various genres, periods, disciplines, and rhetorical contexts.  Students read to understand a work’s complexity, as well as its richness of meaning, and to analyze how that meaning is embodied in literary form.

AP/UConn English students also work to become confident writers who control a wide range of rhetorical strategies and who possess a keen sense of audience and purpose.  Peer evaluation and student/teacher conferencing help students develop revision skills.  Written assignments include a variety of personal essays, literary analyses, creative writing assignments, research-based writings, oral presentations, and multi-disciplinary projects.  

Note: This class includes extensive summer work. Students will be expected to have this work completed on the first day of school. Consequently, the deadline for enrollment for this class is June 30. 

Homework:  The typical homework assignment in this course will take over 60 minutes to complete.
 

Advanced Placement Calculus (BC)     1.5 DHHS Credits                                            Course No.  271
Level 1  
Trimesters: 3
Prerequisite:   Pre-Calculus Honors with a minimum grade of B or Pre-Calculus with a minimum grade of A.

This challenging course allows students to preview college work, build confidence, and earn college credit. It is concerned with developing student understanding of calculus concepts and providing experiences in theory, fundamentals, and applications.  Concepts will be explored graphically, numerically, analytically, and verbally.  This course focuses on all the topics of differential and integral calculus and investigates polynomial approximations and series.  Polar graphs, parametric equations, and differential equations will be included.  The curriculum in this course will also be sufficient preparation for the AP Calculus BC Exam. Graphing calculator use will be integrated throughout the course.  Students must have a graphing calculator for home use. Only students who are registered in the UConn/ECE program for this course and earn a passing grade will receive UConn/ECE credit.
Homework:  The typical homework assignment in this course will take approximately 45 minutes to complete.

Advanced Placement Calculus (AB)  1 DHHS Credit                                             Course No. 272
Level 1
Trimesters: 2
Prerequisite:   Pre-Calculus Honors with a minimum grade of B or Pre-Calculus with a minimum grade of A.

The course is designed to build a strong foundation in the basics of calculus: differentiation and integration.  Students are introduced to new ways of thinking about math including graphical, numerical, and analytical approaches.  Modeling, problem solving, and data analysis emphasizing real life data will also be studied.  The curriculum in this course will also be sufficient preparation for the AP Calculus AB Exam. The graphing calculator use will be integrated throughout the course.  Students must have a graphing calculator for home use. Only students who are registered in the UConn/ECE program for this course and earn a passing grade will receive UConn/ECE credit.
Homework:  The typical homework assignment in this course will take approximately 45 minutes to complete.
 

Advanced Placement Statistics     1 DHHS Credit                                                                       Course No. 291
Level 1
Trimesters: 2
Prerequisite:   Pre-Calculus Honors with a minimum grade of B- or Pre-Calculus with a minimum grade of A.

This course will use modern methods of data analysis to explore and master all topics necessary for success on the AP Statistics exam. Students will explore the four broad conceptual themes: exploring data, planning a study, probability, and statistical inference. Technology will play an essential role in the learning through graphical representation, simulation, and experimentation. The graphing calculator use will be integrated throughout the course.  Students must have a graphing calculator for home use. Only students who are registered in the UConn/ECE program for this course and earn a passing grade will receive UConn/ECE credit.

Discrete Math    0.5 DHHS Credit                                                    Course No.  267
Level 3
Trimesters: 1 
Prerequisite:   Algebra II Level 3 with minimum grade of C.

This course has been designed to extend the high school mathematics experience of level 3 students after they complete Algebra II. Each chapter introduced is independent of the other and focuses more on applications, modeling, and use of technology rather than abstract algebraic concepts. Topics covered will include but not necessarily be limited to finances, probability, election theory, and graph theory. Only students who are registered in the UConn/ECE program for this course and earn a grade of C or better will receive UConn/ECE credit.

Advanced Placement Computer Science A     1 Credit                             Course No. 281    
Level 1
Trimesters: 2
Prerequisite:  Students should have completed both of these courses:
a) Algebra II Level 2 with a final grade of A- or higher OR Algebra II Level 1 with a final grade of B- or higher.  
b) Introduction to Computer Science Level 2 with a final grade of A OR Introduction to Computer Science 
Level 1 with a final grade of B- or higher OR personal programming experience with teacher approval.

AP Computer Science A is an introductory college-level computer programming course that focuses on problem solving through the use of computer programming. The course follows the College Board’s AP Computer Science curriculum, with a goal of preparing students for the AP Computer Science A exam.  Students will understand and be able to use the concepts, techniques, and skills typically covered in a typical college-level introductory computer science course.  Specifically, students will be able to analyze problems and design and implement software solutions to these problems using an object oriented approach.  Students will become sufficient in writing, executing, testing, and debugging programs in the Java programming language.

Advanced Placement Biology   1.5 Credits                                                                           Course No. 370                                                                  
Level 1   
Trimesters:  3                                                                                                       
Prerequisite:  B in Biology-Honors or an A in Biological Systems AND a B in 
Chemistry-Honors or an A in Chemistry Level 2. 

This course is designed to be the equivalent of a full year, introductory biology course in college, usually taken by biology majors during their first year. It will prepare students to take the National Advanced Placement Biology Exam.  The curriculum suggested by Educational Testing Service and the College Board will be completed with an emphasis on molecular biology. First trimester will include a detailed look at cell biochemistry, cell division, and the mechanisms of photosynthesis and cellular respiration.  Second trimester will focus on genetics (Mendelian, molecular, and biotechnology applications of DNA) and evolution.  Studies will end in the third trimester with a look at organism classification and phylogeny.  Students will do an independent study of ecology. A significant portion of the course will include sophisticated laboratory investigations recommended by the College Board. These labs will require students to apply effective strategies for inquiry-based problem solving as well as analysis and interpretation of data.  A summer assignment will be given as review of biology and chemistry prerequisites. All students are encouraged to take the National AP Examination. 
Homework:  The typical homework assignment in this course will take over 60 minutes to complete.
 

Advanced Placement Chemistry   1.5 DHHS Credits                                                    Course No. 351                                               
Level 1
Trimesters: 3
Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Chemistry Honors with a B- or better.

This course is designed to provide a foundation for more advanced courses in chemistry.  Topics include atomic theory, physical and chemical behavior of gases, liquids, solids, and solutions, as well as thermodynamics, kinetics, equilibrium systems, electrochemistry, and nuclear chemistry. First semester labs focus on quantitative measurements illustrating the laws of chemical combination. Second semester labs focus on equilibrium in solutions and qualitative reactions of the common cations and anions.  Daily classes are “lecture based” and students are treated as they will be treated when attending college.  All students are encouraged to take the AP Examination.

Only students who are registered in the UConn/ECE program for this course and earn a passing grade will receive UConn/ECE credit.
Homework:  The typical homework assignment in this course will take over 60 minutes to complete.

Note: There is an additional fee to register for UConn’s ALEKS online homework system, which is part of the course.
Note: Students will start laboratory experiments at 7 AM.

Advanced Placement Physics 1          1.5 DHHS Credits                                     Course No. 361              
Level 1
Trimesters:3
Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Algebra II Honors with a B- or better or Algebra II Level 2 with an A- or better.  Successful completion of Chemistry-Honors with a B- or better or successful completion of Chemistry Level 2 with an A- or better or successful completion of UConn ECE Chemistry with a C+ or better.

This course covers basic principles of physics using algebra and trigonometry.  Topics covered are Newtonian mechanics (including rotation and oscillation), fluid mechanics, thermal physics, electricity and magnetism, waves and optics, and some topics of modern physics.  The level and content of the course is typical of what the student would experience in a first year general physics college course. The course will allow students the opportunity to prepare for the Advanced Placement Physics 1 Examination. All students are encouraged to take the AP Examination.

Only students who are registered in the UConn/ECE program for this course and earn a passing grade will receive UConn/ECE credit.
Homework:  The typical homework assignment in this course will take over 60 minutes to complete.
 

Advanced Placement Physics (C)     1.5 DHHS Credits                                              Course No. 363
Level 1
Trimesters: 3
Prerequisite:   Successful completion of Honors Pre-Calculus with a C+ or better or Level 2 Pre-Calculus with a B+ or better.  Successful completion of Chemistry-Honors with a B- or better or successful completion of Chemistry Level 2 with an A- or better or successful completion of UConn/ECE Chemistry with a C+ or better.  Successful completion of or concurrent enrollment in AP Calculus (BC) or AP Calculus (AB).

AP Physics C is offered to students who have successfully completed or are concurrently enrolled in AP Calculus (BC) or AP Calculus (AB) and who are planning to study physical science or engineering in college. This course will prepare the student for the Mechanics portion of the AP Physics C exam. Electricity and magnetism will also be covered. The use of calculus in problem solving and derivations will increase as the course progresses and will be used freely in formulating principles and in solving problems during the second half of the course when electricity and magnetism are covered. All students are encouraged to take the AP Examination. 

Only students who are registered in the UConn/ECE program for this course and earn a passing grade will receive UConn/ECE credit.
Homework:  The typical homework assignment in this course will take over 60 minutes to complete.

AP U.S. History     1.5 DHHS Credits                                              Course No.171
(U.S. History to 1877: HIST 1501 & U.S. History since 1877: 
HIST 1502)  8 UCONN Credits
Level 1
Trimesters: 3
Prerequisite:  A level 1 social studies course with a minimum grade of B- or a level 2 social studies course with a minimum grade of A- and a genuine interest in the subject.

This course provides the student with an in-depth study of U.S. History.  Emphasis is placed on the development of writing, critical thinking, oral participation, and research skills.  Original source documents are examined, and extensive reading in economic, cultural, intellectual, and political history is assigned.  Students who exhibit a seriousness of purpose, a positive attitude towards education, and high academic potential are encouraged to select this course. A summer assignment is required.  Students who select this course are expected to take the AP exam.

Homework:  The typical homework assignment in this course will take over 60 minutes to complete.
 

AP European History     1.5 DHHS Credits                                                                     Course No. 192
(Modern Western Traditions: HIST 1400)   8 UCONN Credits
Level 1     
Trimesters: 3                            
Prerequisite:  A level 1 social studies course with a minimum grade of B- or a level 2 
social studies course with a minimum grade of A- and a genuine interest in the subject.

As part of the University of Connecticut’s Early College Experience Program, this course will give students the opportunity to earn three (3) college credits which are accepted by many other colleges in addition to the University of Connecticut. Only students who are registered in the UConn/ECE program for this course and earn a passing grade will receive UConn/ECE credit. This course also will allow students the opportunity to prepare for the Advanced Placement European History Exam. 

During the course, the Renaissance period is studied as a transition from ancient to modern times.  Eighteenth century economics, political and scientific revolutions are related to nine¬teenth and twentieth century problems of expansion, war, and peace.  Students should be prepared to read widely, to examine histori¬cal documents carefully, and to evaluate historical interpretations criti¬cally.  A summer assignment is required.

Homework:  The typical homework assignment in this course will take approximately 45 minutes to complete.

AP Macroeconomics   1 Credit                                                                                      Course No. 180
Level 1
Trimesters: 2
Prerequisite:  A level 1 social studies course with a minimum grade of B- or a level 2 social studies course with a minimum grade of A- and a genuine interest in the subject.

AP Macroeconomics is dedicated to studying the measures and the tools available to monitor and stimulate economic growth. Students will consider the impact of these tools on a variety of social issues such as unemployment and poverty and how economists apply them to our economy to improve our nation’s standard of living and quality of life. Particular emphasis is given to the study of Gross Domestic Production and how prices are determined. It also develops students’ familiarity with various economic indicators and performance measures, stabilization policies, financial markets, economic growth, and international economics.  

AP Psychology    1.5 Credits                                                                                         Course No. 198
Level 1
Trimesters: 3
Prerequisite:  A level 1 social studies course with a minimum grade of B- or a level 2 social studies course with a minimum grade of A- and a genuine interest in the subject.

This rigorous, activity-oriented course provides an introduction to the systematic and scientific study of behavior and mental processes. Readings are college level and demand the ability to interpret and apply concepts learned in class. Students are exposed to principles and phenomena associated with each of the major subfields within psychology while learning the methods psychologists use in the research and study of their field. A summer reading assignment is required.  Students who select this course are expected to take the AP exam.

Homework:  The typical homework assignment in this course will take approximately 45 minutes to complete.

AP/ UCONN/ECE Latin 4                Course No. 436

(Topics in Advanced Latin: CAMS 3102) 3 UCONN Credits

Level 1
Trimesters: 2
Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Latin 3 – Honors and teacher recommendation.

Students in Latin 4 will follow the AP curriculum begun in Latin 3 Honors.  Students will be reading, in both English and Latin, major sections of the great Roman epic, Vergil’s Aeneid, and Julius Caesar’s commentary about the Gallic Wars. The course acts as a culmination of themes, vocabulary, and grammar skills developed throughout the students’ high school career.  Students in Latin 4 will be asked to answer the questions:  “How do the victors shape history?”, “What makes a hero?”, and “How does style shape meaning?”  Students taking this course are encouraged to take the College Board’s AP Latin Examination in May. Language acquisition is cumulative and with that in mind, this course has summer work in order to maintain language skills.  

Note: Only students who are registered in the UConn/ECE program for this course and earn a passing grade will receive UConn/ECE credit.

AP/ UCONN/ECE French 5    1 DHHS Credit                                                               Course No. 426
(Grammar and Composition: FREN 3268) 3 UCONN Credits
Level 1
Trimesters: 2
Prerequisite:   Successful completion of French 4 - Honors and teacher recommendation.

This course is designed for students who want to build advanced skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking in the French language, while enhancing their cultural competency.  Students engage in, and are assessed on, authentic use of the language and the understanding of francophone cultures by reading varied print materials, writing responses to prompted situations, listening to and viewing authentic audio and video sources related to everyday life and global issues, and speaking in response to simulated scenarios or formal presentation themes.  Students must speak exclusively in French during the course.  Students taking this course are encouraged to take the College Board’s AP French Language and Culture examination in May. Language acquisition is cumulative and with that in mind, this course has summer work in order to maintain language skills. 

Note: Only students who are registered in the UConn/ECE program for this course and earn a passing grade will receive UConn/ECE credit.

AP Spanish 5       1 Credit                                                                                               Course No. 419
Level 1
Trimesters: 2
Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Spanish 4 - Honors and teacher recommendation.

This course is designed for students who want to build advanced skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking in the Spanish language, while enhancing their cultural competency.  Students engage in, and are assessed on, authentic use of the language and the understanding of its cultures by reading varied print materials, writing responses to prompted situations, listening to and viewing authentic audio and video sources related to everyday life and global issues, and speaking in response to simulated scenarios or formal presentation themes.  Students must speak exclusively in Spanish during the course.  Students taking this course are encouraged to take the College Board’s AP Spanish Language and Culture examination in May. Students who successfully complete this course will be prepared for the University of Connecticut ECE Spanish 6 - Honors course. Language acquisition is cumulative and with that in mind, this course has summer work in order to maintain language skills. 

UConn/ECE Spanish Cinema & Conversation     1 Credit                                                                                Course No. 450
(Spanish Conversation: Cultural Topics: SPAN 3179) 3 UCONN Credits
Level 2
Trimesters: 2
Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Spanish 5 or AP Spanish 5. 

During their last year of high school, language study students will participate in a conversational approach to learning language through film analysis. Students will view a series of award winning Hispanic films and have meaningful conversations about the plot, themes, and cultural experiences using relevant vocabulary. Students will explore unit themes including “Between a Rock and a Hard Place,” “In Search of a Better Life,” and “Children of War.” In addition, there will be opportunities for further investigation via readings, compositions, and performance based assessments. Students will ultimately have the opportunity to select a Hispanic film of their choice to view, analyze, and share with their classmates. Active student participation in Spanish is necessary to increase all language proficiency skills.

Note: Only students who are registered in the UConn/ECE program for this course and earn a passing grade will receive UConn/ECE credit.

Note:  Due to the nature of Hispanic film, many of the films viewed in this course are rated R. Permission slips will be sent home at the start of the course.
 

If You Love It, Teach It   1.0 DHHS Credits                             Course No. 005
(If You Love It, Teach It EDCI 1100)  3 UCONN Credits

Course Description
This is an educational foundations survey course for those who are interested in learning more about the landscape of K-12 education and how to connect their passions to it. If You Love it, Teach It engages students interested in working in K-12 settings in studies about teaching, learning, and schooling in the United States. It explores teaching and learning as processes that can relate to personal passions as well as how those passions are shaped, cultivated, or denied in different educational contexts. Course topics will include introductions to historical, philosophical, and social foundations of education, as well as how those foundations and personal passions relate to teaching as a profession, school organization, educational reform, and the reimagining of educational futures. Only students who are registered in the UConn/ECE program for this course and earn a passing grade will receive UConn/ECE credit. 

Course Format

This course will use a wide variety of writing, speaking, reading, and arts-based practices to explore course themes. Interactive discussions, in-class and online activities, a field experience, and readings are designed to engage students in articulating their processes, values, and experiences of knowing, learning, and teaching. Activities and assignments such as portfolios, thinking journals, K-12 setting observations, project- based learning, whole-class and small-group inquiry, a midterm exam, and cooperative teaching and learning experiences will combine to help the students consider theoretical knowledge in relation to the realities of educational practices in the classroom and beyond. In addition, students will be given the opportunity to focus on specific areas of current and future educational thinking through the production of written assignments on selected topics.

Course Themes:

Primary Themes

• Passionate Teaching and Learning
• Histories of Education
• Philosophical and Social Foundations of Education

Considerations and Applications of Primary Themes 

• Teaching as an Art and as a Profession
• Standards-Based Education
• School Governance and Organization
• Alternative Conceptions to Schooling and Teaching (e.g., Culturally Sustaining Pedagogy, Social Justice Education, Human Rights Education)