Program of Studies - Bensalem Township School District

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BENSALEM HIGH SCHOOL ADMINISTRATIVE STAFFMr. Robert AndersonMrs. Leonore HopeMr. Dean GargesMr. Kenneth NapaverMr. Steven LouellaHigh School PrincipalAssistant PrincipalAssistant PrincipalAssistant PrincipalAssistant PrincipalCOUNSELING DEPARTMENTRobert A. SchutterCounseling Department ChairpersonMr. Frank KernMrs. Pina HeslinMs. Eileen GallagherMrs. Mary Kay BarnettMrs. Maryann SmithMr. Robert SchutterA to CrCs to HarHas to McAMcB to PatePatf to SpeSpf to Z and I.U. StudentsDISTRICT OFFICE ADMINSTRATIONDr. David BaughDr. Monica McHale-SmallMrs. Maribel CampsMrs. Kathleen LeonMr. Brian CohenMr. Roy BrittonMr. Kenneth MedinaMr. Robert MoseleySuperintendentAssistant SuperintendentDirector of Elementary Curriculum & InstructionDirector of Secondary Curriculum & InstructionDirector of Special EducationDirector of Information TechnologyDirector of Business OperationsDirector of Facilities1

Bensalem High SchoolBensalem Township School District ▪ 4319 Hulmeville Road ▪ Bensalem, Pennsylvania 19020BENSALEM TOWNSHIP SCHOOL DISTRICT MISSION STATEMENTStriving to be the premier educational institution in Bucks County, we will provide a first classeducation for the whole child that challenges and supports each student to discover a passion forlearning while designing and achieving a personal vision of success.BENSALEM TOWNSHIP SCHOOL DISTRICT BELIEFSEach child has unique learning needs.All students can learn and be successful.Success in school can be defined in multiple ways.Our success requires the collaborative support of the entire community.Each member of our school community deserves mutual respect in a safe and healthyenvironment.While the District maintains fiscal responsibility, decisions should be driven bystudents’ needs and interests.NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICYThe Bensalem Township School District does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, color, religious creed, ancestry,national origin, handicap or sexual orientation in its educational programs, activities or employment policies, as required byTitle VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of1972, Equal Pay act of 1963, Executive Order 11246 as amended by 11365 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of1973.The School Board has appointed Robert Cardillo, Director of Human Resources in the District Office (3000 Donallen Drive,Bensalem; 215-750-2800, extension 4003) as Non-Discrimination Officer, to answer any inquiries regarding compliance.2

Bensalem High SchoolBensalem Township School District ▪ 4319 Hulmeville Road ▪ Bensalem, Pennsylvania 19020(215) 750-2800, Ext. 3000 Principal’s OfficeDear Parents and Students:The Bensalem High School Program of Studies presents a wide-range of courses. It includes essential informationof graduation requirements and educational opportunities offered by the school to challenge all students and tomeet individual goals. It is our intent to emphasize a high level of academic rigor and provide a meaningfuleducational experience for every student.The course selection process is important and should not be limited to this publication. Information from thestudent’s teachers and the school counselor is a critical component in making appropriate choices. Studentinterest, ability, past performance and goals for the future must also be considered.Bensalem High School has embarked on a number of exciting educational initiatives. These will include thefollowing:• STEM Academy (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics)• Freshmen Academy promoting “teaming” for instruction and student development• Developing Curriculum pathways which will lead to an academy approach in the Visual and Performing Artsas well as in Business Entrepreneurship and International Studies.Bensalem High School has an excellent educational program taught by a highly qualified and dedicated faculty.We are committed to providing each student with an education in which essential information, concepts and skillsare mastered; knowledge explored and ideas are critically analyzed and evaluated. This commitment to excellenceis not fully realized unless student and their parents select the appropriate courses and strive to master thecurriculum in those courses.The Bensalem High School faculty and staff are looking forward to a successful 2013 – 2014 school year.Respectfully,Robert A. AndersonPrincipal3

Table of ContentsHelpful Information..................................................................................................................1-8Mission Statement/District Beliefs/Non-Discrimination Policy.........................................2Letter from the Principal..................................................................................................3Table of Contents............................................................................................................4Course Selection and Planning....................................................................................5-6High School Graduation and Promotion Policy...............................................................7Options for High School Graduation Requirements.....................................................8-9Marking/Grading Policy.................................................................................................10Course Selection by Department..........................................................................11-12Art.............................................................................................................................11-12Business Program....................................................................................................12-14English......................................................................................................................15-19English Foundations.................................................................................................19Family and Consumer Science.................................................................................19-20Industrial Arts/Technology Education........................................................................20-21Mathematics..............................................................................................................21-23Music.........................................................................................................................23-25JROTC...........................................................................................................................25Science.....................................................................................................................25-28Social Studies...........................................................................................................28-30Wellness/Fitness.......................................................................................................31-32World Languages......................................................................................................32-34Miscellaneous Programs and Information............................................................34-36Co-Operative Education/Work Experience.....................................................................34Special Programs............................................................................................................35BCTHS............................................................................................................................35Personal Plan for Success/Sample Forms................................................................36-404

COURSE SELECTION AND PLANNINGFrom Your Course Selection to Your Schedule – a 6-month processThe course selection process for Bensalem High School students begins with a review of a students completed courses and hisgraduation requirements. School Counselors will meet with students to review their course selections to ensure proper placement.Parents/guardians are encouraged to contact their child’s counselor if they have any questions. Course selections should be consideredvery carefully. Courses are offered based on student requests and district resources.Course Selection Steps1. Counselors conduct classroom-based or large group presentations regarding course requirements and scheduling process.2. Core teachers make recommendations for the following school year3. Student completes a course selection form4. Student and Parent review form, sign it, and return it to their homeroom teacher.5. Counselor reviews course selection sheets and meets with students as needed.Once the course-verification sheet is received the student and parent/guardian will review the accuracy of the requests. Studentswill notify their School Counselors of any necessary change(s). All students are expected to continue in and complete the courses selected.All selections are final as of March 15, 2013.PROCEDURE LIMITING SCHEDULE CHANGESThe following procedures governing schedule changes have been adopted for the high school:1. If a student receives a requested course, then he/she must keep that course.2. Any parent override requires a meeting with school district personnel to review data and parent request.3. If the counselor or anyone responsible for evaluating transcripts and/or inputting scheduling data makes an error, then he/she willcorrect the error in the student’s schedule.For students in need of specially designed instruction, the development of an appropriate schedule of classes will be based on thestudent’s needs and the decisions of the IEP team. The IEP team should be guided by, but not limited by, these guidelines. If thereis any problem with a student’s schedule for next school year, he/she must call or see his/her school counselor no later than March 15 th by2:30 p.m. In accordance with the procedure stated above, no changes will be made after March 15 th .Guidelines for Changing Courses Once a student’s schedule is ready to be finalized, the schedule will be reviewed. If a change is necessary and the guidelines outlined below apply, these changes should be completed before the end of the school year or during the summer. Counselors schedule office hours during the summer break – after the close of school and just before school re-­‐opens in the fall – in order to assist students with scheduling. We ask for your patience when trying to schedule time with a counselor as their office hours are greatly reduced in the summer. Once students receive their schedule to review before it is finalized, course changes will be limited to the following circumstances only: • A required course is missing • A course is out of sequence with the core subject planning chart • A prerequisite(s) is not met • A course failure or summer school completion affects course sequencing • A graduation requirement is not met Guidelines for Dropping/Adding Courses – After Schedule is Finalized Periodically students may experience academic difficulty in a course(s) and may feel the need to drop said course after the initial add/drop period in the beginning of the school year or 2nd semester. When these situations arise, the following steps must be taken prior to an administrator’s consideration of a course change: • The student must submit the request in writing and clearly state the reason and/or rationale. This request must be submitted to the teacher and the counselor. • Once the counselor has received and reviewed the request and feels that the request is valid, the counselor will arrange a meeting with the student and the teacher to address the following: • Review the reason and rationale for the request 5

• Ensure that the student is meeting all necessary requirements for the class: • Attending regularly and actively engaging in classwork • Completing in-­‐class work and HW assignments • Maintaining an organized notebook and planner • Exhibiting good study habits • The teacher, counselor and student will develop a plan of action that must include at least a minimum of 5 documented after school sessions with the teacher or tutor over a 3 week period • Parent Contact • The teacher must contact the parent to discuss the situation • The parent will be asked to share information about home study habits and share efforts that will be made at home to address the issue • Teacher will share efforts that have been made in the classroom with regards to instruction & assessment strategies, and interventions (Use BHS Student Feedback Checklist) • If all of these steps have been followed and the student is still not making adequate academic progress, then a meeting with the counselor and administrator must be arranged to review the situation. Once all information is reviewed, the counselor and administrator will arrange a meeting with the student, parent and teacher to present their recommendation. If the decision is made to drop the course, a withdrawal code of “W” or “WF” will appear on the students transcripts based on the final recommendation. Course selection is important in preparing students for post-secondary endeavors. New ideas and careful sequencing canopen up exciting future opportunities. Parent conferences are also very helpful and welcomed by counselors. It is reallyimportant to keep in contact with the guidance counseling staff. Choosing the right courses is one of the most significant tasksa student completes each year. Courses should be selected with these questions in mind:• Will this course allow me to meet graduation requirements? • Will this course help me to meet college entrance requirements? • Will this course help me develop a skill to become employable after high school? • Will this course introduce me to a new subject or experience? • Is this course appropriate for my ability? Will it be a challenge? • Do I have the prerequisite for this course? Students are given opportunities to choose from a wide variety of elective subjects beyond the required core subjects listed inthis guide. Every effort is made to fulfill these requests; however, no master schedule can provide every course that everyindividual student requests. The development of a master schedule takes into consideration many factors when determiningwhich courses can be offered. Staffing, the number of students requesting a particular course, unique combinations of courserequests, school resources, etc., are among many factors that influence the access to particular courses in a given year. Theadministration and school counselors will work diligently and methodically to provide a rich and varied academic experience,but there may be some instances where, for scheduling purposes, the administration and school counselors will have to adjustan individual student’s course selections. If this occurs, every effort will be made to place the student in a similar course at asimilar level. That is why it is important for students to list an adequate number of electives and alternatives to insure they arescheduled in to courses aligned with their academic goals and interests.6

HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION AND PROMOTION POLICYFor students to be certified for a Bensalem Township School District diploma, they must meet the following requirements:Completion of Graduation Project and be a full-time student in the high school, who has successfully completed the specifiednumber of credits as defined by the Chapter 4 Curriculum Regulations of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. These credits willconsist of:English4 creditsSocial Studies3 credits(World History, Am. Government and Am History)Mathematics(with completion of Algebra II and Geometry) 3 creditsScience (Including Biology)3 creditsArts and/or Humanities2 creditsWellness/Fitness2 creditsComputer Application/Information Technology1 creditElectives10 creditsTOTAL28 credits*Total number of credits required is subject to change pending changes in the high school schedule.GRADE LEVEL PROMOTIONA. Promotion to Grade 9 – The student must successfully complete Grade 8 in accordance with the approved program of study.B. Promotion to Grade 10 – The student must successfully complete 6.00 units of credit in accordance with the approved program ofstudy.C. Promotion to Grade 11 – The student must successfully complete 13.00 units of credit in accordance with the approved program ofstudy and complete Geometry.D. Promotion to Grade 12 – The student must successfully complete 20.00 units of credit in accordance with the approved program ofstudy.*For purposes of this paragraph, “approved program of study” does NOT include a Home Schooling Program.Graduation RequirementsIn order to graduate and earn a Bensalem High School diploma, students must meet the following requirements: 1. Successfully complete and earn credit for courses as detailed in the table below. 2. Complete a culminating project that is referred to as a student’s Graduation Project. This process begins freshmen year and is monitored by the student’s advisor as they progress through high school. 3. Demonstrate proficiency on required Keystone Exams. All students that do not demonstrate proficiency on the Keystone Exams will be required to meet additional academic requirements prior to graduationBENSALEM HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION PROJECTAs a requirement for graduation from Bensalem High School, every student must complete a project identified by the Commonwealth ofPennsylvania in the Chapter 4 Regulations and the Bensalem Township School District. The purpose of the project, which may includeresearch, writing, or some other form of appropriate demonstration, is to ASSURE that the student is able to APPLY, ANALYZE,SYNTHESIZE and EVALUATE information and COMMUNICATE significant knowledge and understanding: A graduation project is definedas a self selected activity chosen by a single student, or a group of students, which reflects in-depth learning. The original project mayexpress the personal interests of the student.GRADUATION PROJECT REQUIREMENTSAt Bensalem High School the components of the Graduation Project will include:• a project contract• a written component• a visual aid• an oral component• an evaluation• a service componentThe original project may be completed as an independent project or may be completed in a class that may provide an opportunity to receiveGraduation Project credit. Each student will be assigned a mentor, and the student will begin the project in ninth grade and ultimately couldbe completed at the end of ninth grade. Students who do not complete the project have until the first semester of their senior year tocomplete this project. No student will receive a Bensalem High School diploma unless they have completed the Graduation Project.7

OPTIONS FOR HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION REQUIREMENTSA full time schedule for senior students must equal eight credits for the upcoming year. Seniors must carry a full load of courses equaling 8credits until the date of graduation. Fifth year seniors will take only those courses needed for graduation. Such seniors are mandated toleave school for the day at the completion of last class.POSSIBLE COLLEGE REQUIREMENTSPlease check with the college you are planning to attend for admission requirements. Many colleges require two or more credits in a WorldLanguage (Spanish, French, Hindi and Japanese) and may specify the Science courses (example: Biology, Chemistry and/or Physics).Most colleges require Algebra 1, Algebra 2 and Geometry; however, some colleges require Trigonometry or Pre-Calculus as well.PATTERNS OF COURSE SELECTION (Illustrative Only) COLLEGE PREP and ACADEMIC GRADE 9 GRADE 10 GRADE 11 GRADE 12 English 9 English 10 English 11 English 12 Algebra I or Foundations of Algebra II Geometry Algebra Energy and your Environment Biology Chemistry/Physics or Foundations of Physics World History American History American Government Wellness/Fitness Wellness/Fitness Elective Computer Application Electives (1 or 2) Electives (3) Electives (4) Electives (7) PATTERNS OF COURSE SELECTION (Illustrative Only) HONORS GRADE 9 GRADE 10 GRADE 11 GRADE 12 Honors English 9 Honors English 10 Honors English 11 or AP English Honors English 12 or AP English Honors Algebra II Honors Geometry Pre-­‐Calculus or Math Elective AP Calculus Honors Biology Honors Chemistry AP Courses Honors World History Honors American History Honors American Government Wellness/Fitness Wellness/Fitness Elective Computer Application Electives (2) Electives (3) Electives (4) Electives (6) BEGINNING WITH THE CLASS OF 2017, students will be scheduled into mandatoryelectives based on keystone test performance.8

The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)DIVISION I 16 Core Courses: 4 years of English. 3 years of mathematics (Algebra I or higher). 2 years of natural/physical science (1 year of lab if offered by high school). 1 year of additional English, mathematics or natural/physical science. 2 years of social science. 4 years of additional courses (from any area above, foreign language or comparative religion/philosophy). DIVISION II 16 Core Courses: 3 years of English. 2 years of mathematics (Algebra I or higher). 2 years of natural/physical science (1 year of lab if offered by high school). 3 years of additional English, mathematics or natural/physical science. 2 years of social science. 4 years of additional courses (from any area above, foreign language or comparative religion/philosophy). For NCAA eligibility purposes, only core courses are used in the calculation of the grade-point average. This is an NCAA policy and is notrelated to the Bensalem High School Grading Policy noted earlier in this document. Be sure to look at your high school’s list of NCAAapprovedcore courses on the clearinghouse Web site to make certain that the courses being taken have been approved as core courses.The Web site is www.eligibilitycenter.org. Division I GPA and SAT test score requirements are determined by the NCAA Qualifier Index.Division II grade-point-average requirement is a minimum of 2.00.ADVANCED PLACEMENT COURSESAdvanced Placement Courses: The AP courses are offered by Bensalem High School in cooperation with The College Board. Thesecourses allow our students to take college-level studies while in high school. This is a national program whose policies are set by memberinstitutions and operated by Educational Testing Service. We encourage students enrolled in AP courses to take the AP exams offered byThe College Board each May. Participating colleges can grant credit if a student scores a 3, 4, or 5. The cost of the tests is set by TheCollege Board each year. The AP courses currently offered at Bensalem High School are: AP English 11 (Language), AP English 12(Literature), AP Calculus AB, AP Calculus BC, AP Statistics, AP Biology, AP Chemistry, AP Physics, AP American History, AP AmericanGovernment, AP European History, AP Psychology, AP Computer Science, and AP Music Theory. Students are strongly urged to take theAP Exams to fully enjoy the benefits of these courses. AP credit will not be awarded to students who do not take the AP Exam. Studentswho complete an AP course but elect not to take the AP Exam associated with that course will be awarded Honors level credit.ADVANCED PLACEMENT SCHOLAR AWARDSThe College Board recognized high school students who have demonstrated college-level achievement through AP courses and exams.Although there is no monetary award, in addition to receiving an award certificate, this achievement is acknowledged on any AP score reportsent to colleges.AWARD LEVELSAP ScholarGranted to students who receive scores of 3 or higher on three or more AP Exams.AP Scholar with HonorGranted to students who receive an average score of at least 3.25 on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 3 or higher on four or more of theseexams.AP Scholar with DistinctionGranted to students who receive an average score of at least 3.5 on all AP Exams taken, and score of 3 or higher on five or more of theseexams.State AP ScholarGranted to the one male and one female student in each U.S. State and the District of Columbia with scores of 3 or higher on the greatestnumber of AP Exams taken, and then the highest average score (at least 3.5) on all AP Exams taken.National AP ScholarGranted to the students in the United States who receive an average score of at least 4 on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 4 or higher oneight or more of these exams.9

THE BENSALEM STEM ACADEMYThe Bensalem STEM Academy will offer Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, Pathways. Students will be engaged inrigorous, challenging academic work that will require a mindset of growth and effort.Our goals are to:• Attract a broad spectrum of students who will be immersed in STEM learning experiences.• Offer advanced educational opportunities for students in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.• Provide students with a high quality, project based education, designed to give them the skills necessary to compete in the globaleconomy.• Have students work with faculty to design their own independent and group-based education, designed to give them the skillsnecessary to compete in the global economy.• Provide an education that is dynamic, relevant, and rigorous.• Offer a highly personalized learning environment within an academy model.• Offer high school/college enrollment programs, co-ops, and internships.• Partner with area colleges and STEM businesses to assist in the development of our new STEM high school’s offerings.• Build on the STEM experiences of our elementary and middle schools.MARKING/GRADING POLICYNUMERIC SCORE LETTER GRADE G.P.A. EQUIVALENT97-100 A+ 4.393-96 A 4.090-92 A- 3.787-89 B+ 3.383-86 B 3.080-82 B- 2.777-79 C+ 2.373-76 C 2.070-72 C- 1.767-69 D+ 1.363-66 D 1.060-62 D- .750-59 F .0WEIGHTED COURSESCourses are weighted, or given extra value, according to the difficulty level of the course. This emphasis is reflected in a student’s GPA.Class rank is based on weighted courses. The official weighted system:• College Prep and Electives= 1.0• Honors level courses, Gifted, Pre-Calculus, Statistics, Trigonometry, Calculus, third through fifth year world language courses = 1.1• Advanced Placement classes = 1.2 when taking the test and 1.1 without taking the test10

ARTThe Art Department at Bensalem High School seeks to provide a whole art experience for every student. The Art program provides studentswith the opportunity to take elective courses that are not sequential such as Crafts and Pottery and Drawing and Painting, to name a few,which have no pre-requisites. In addition we offer Art Major Courses, I, II & III and Pottery II, & III, designed for those students who wantadvanced courses and portfolio preparation for post-secondary opportunities. In addition, exhibition opportunities and competitions will beoffered and encouraged.The Art Department allows students to explore many different techniques and mediums within each class. All art courses are not only studiobased but incorporate art history, art criticism and aesthetics. Regardless of the level of experience, each student is encouraged to use his orher own creative expression. This base builds critical thinking, creative problem solving which aids the student in communicating their ownideas and self-expression. As always the keys to success in the art department are commitment and effort.7200 Introduction to Art ConceptsPrerequisite: NoneThis is an introductory art course that exposes the student to both 2 dimensional and 3 dimensional techniques of creating art. Students willexplore the “Elements and Principles of Design” which is the foundation to any work of art. The class will be divided between 2-D (drawing,painting, etc.) and 3-D projects (sculpture). This course is required for the Art Major path and a strong foundation for all other art courses.7220 Painting and Drawing 2Prerequisite: passed Painting and Drawing 1 with a “C” or better or teacher approvalThe aim of this course is to expand upon the 2D experience in Painting and Drawing. It will offer a higher level of course where students willfurther pursue the Elements and Principles of Art and Design. Students learn the basics in Painting and Drawing and then bend andmanipulate those basics with a further depth of understanding, while taking risks, in Painting and Drawing II. Students learn how to use thematerials to further express themselves visually and develop a wide breadth of work towards their portfolios. Color theory, linear perspective,compositional structure, figure/ground relationships, visual perception, spatial concepts, and critical thinking skills will all be emphasizedextensively. We will study and research major painting styles and movements in a historical context. The goals is for students to use aglobal approach to develop a “critical eye” in the evaluation of their own work as well as contemporary painting. Demonstrations, videos,PowerPoint lectures, and group and individual critiques will be given throughout the course.7230 SCULPTURE 2Prerequisite: passed Sculpture 1 with a “C” or better or teacher approvalThis course emphasizes skills learned in Sculpture I with a focus on analytical and critical problem solving skills which integrateMathematical, chemical and Scientific components. Students develop ideas, execute solutions to construction problems, analyze a variety ofsculptural works and explore materials, contexts, styles and sculptural traditions. Students will examine sculptural form as a means ofcommunicating ideas.7240 Crafts and PotteryPrerequisite: NoneCrafts and Pottery is a course designed to introduce students to traditional and contemporary forms of craft including but not limited to; batik,basket making, stained glass and weaving. In addition, the course will also include an exploration of three-dimensional clay techniques.Students will become familiar with pinch pot, coil and slab construction methods and also experience working on the Potter’s wheel. Thestudents will generate work in the studio and be responsible for sketchbook assignments as well as completion of a digital portfolio.7250 Pottery 2Prerequisite: Crafts and Pottery with a “C” or better or teacher approvalThis is an intermediate level course with emphasis on craftsmanship and creativity for students who have a real love of clay. Students willfurther develop skills and techniques in ceramic construction as well as enhance their ability to express ideas. Exploration of historical andcontemporary ceramic artists will be a component of the course. The students will generate work in the studio and be responsible forsketchbook assignments as well as completion of a digital portfolio.7260 Painting and DrawingPrerequisite: NoneThis is an art elective that will introduce drawing techniques and develop observational skills. Charcoal, gradient pencils, pastel, watercolor,tempera and acrylic will be among some of the media introduced. The students will produce both representational and expressive work whilealso learning art history, criticism and aesthetics. The students will generate work in the studio and be responsible for sketchbookassignments as well as completion of a digital portfolio.11

7270 SculpturePrerequisite: NoneThis elective will introduce students to investigate various sculptural methods and materials such as plaster, wire and clay. In addition,students will be exposed to historical and cultural influences of the discipline. Creative problem solving, preliminary sketches and productionwill be part of every project. The students will produce both representational and expressive work while also learning art history, criticismand aesthetics. The students will generate work in the studio and be responsible for sketchbook assignments as well as completion of adigital portfolio.7280 Art and CulturePrerequisite: NoneThis class is an elective that will provide a multi-disciplinary approach to understanding many different cultures and their art. This class willblend anthropology, history, geography, literature and studio art as avenues of exploring various world cultures. The class will create artworkthat is inspired by the study of the culture and the acknowledgement of the distinctive design elements that are specific to the culture.Reading assignments, writing assignments, as well as studio artwork will be requirements of this class.BUSINESSSocial Business Courses5210 Accounting 1 - QuickBooksPrerequisite: NoneThis course emphasizes the formal system of financial record management for accounting concepts and procedures used in a service andmerchandising business. Students will also study the accounting vocabulary, the relationship between accounting and business, and theaccounting cycle. QuickBooks accounting software will be used to enter transactions and create financial reports. This course providesentry-level job skills for high school graduates and a strong foundation for students majoring in Accounting or in Business Administration atthe college level. Naviance will be used to explore career opportunities in the accounting profession.5220 Accounting 2 - QuickBooksPrerequisite: QuickBooks Accounting 1This course is designed to reinforce basic accounting concepts and procedures learned in QuickBooks Accounting 1, and then to furtherexpand on these concepts and procedures. Students will gain experience dealing with specialized accounting applications such as specialjournals, taxes, depreciation, deferrals and accruals, managerial accounting, payroll, and cost accounting. Students will use QuickBookssoftware to complete application problems and assessments. Thorough investigation of career opportunities will be researched usingNaviance.5300 Business Management -Prerequisite: NoneBusiness Management helps students develop the skills necessary to manage in today’s corporate business climate. The course is basedon a simulated business where time is spent understanding corporations both domestically and internationally. Topics include: corporateorganizational charts, purchasing, payroll, contract negotiations, and the stock market; In addition to, banking, government, and supply anddemand concepts. The “hands on” experience of managing a business is learned through making managerial business decisions and usingproblem solving along with communication skills. Naviance is used to help students investigate different career paths in business.5940 Co-Op EducationPrerequisite: Senior Status - Credits must be up to date, released for 2 or more periods, minimum GPA of 2.50 and instructorapprovalStudents may be excused from school to earn elective credit(s) through on-the-job career preparation at training sites in government,business or industry. The Co-Op Education Coordinator must approve the work sites and applicants for the program and may also helpstudents find appropriate jobs. The work site will be monitored by the Co-Op Education Coordinator who, in cooperation with the employer,will assign a final grade for each marking period. Students enrolled in this program must be present in school each day on which they arealso scheduled to work. The Co-Op Education Coordinator’s office will notify employers of students’ absences on a daily basis. Working ondays when students are not present in school may be cause for removal from the program. Students interested in this program must meetwith the Co-Op Education Coordinator during the summer and provide proof of successful employment at that time. Students must have theirown transportation to and from the employment location.12

5943 Related Training for Co-Op EducationPrerequisite: Senior Status - Credits must be up to dateThis classroom requirement for students in the Co-Op program is to develop the competencies necessary to succeed as employees in theworld of work. Topics covered are career development and planning using Naviance, employment acquisition and retention, health andsafety, communications development, legal awareness, consumer skills and economics, and especially human relations, or how to get alongwith other people on the job.5590 Students Assisting Teachers – Career Development CoursePrerequisite: Senior Status - Minimum GPA of 2.75 and instructor approvalThis course is designed for senior students who plan to enter the field of education or technology in a related field. Senior students will assistelementary, middle, or high school teachers in their instruction. Students will assist in all levels of preparation, planning, and instruction.Selected students will report to their assigned teacher(s) on a daily basis and to their high school advisor once per week. Students mustprovide their own transportation to attend the elementary/middle schools.5510 EntrepreneurshipPrerequisite: Sophomore, Junior, and Senior StatusEntrepreneurship education seeks to prepare students to be responsible, enterprising individuals who become entrepreneurs orentrepreneurial thinkers and who contribute to economic development and sustainable communities. Entrepreneurship gives studentsopportunities to develop skills which increase their likelihood of success as entrepreneurs and which better equip them for life and the worldof work, regardless of their ultimate career choices. The Entrepreneurship course will involve students in the exploration and evaluation ofthe skills, attitudes, business environments and commitments that are necessary to successfully open and operate an entrepreneurialventure. The course emphasizes the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship as a career choice through Naviance by utilizing criticalthinking and problem solving skills, along with incorporating new dynamic technologies. It will provide training and guidance from communityentrepreneurs, exposing key elements of creating a formal business plan. Students will create a plan for success that can be used whenthey move forward in their future educational and professional endeavours. As an added bonus BHS has partnered with The JuniorAchievement Program of Delaware Valley to offer students the opportunity to start and run an actual business with the assistance ofmentoring professionals from such outstanding corporations as Vanguard, Microsoft, KPMG LLP, and IKEA.5320 IndependencePrerequisite: Junior, and Senior StatusIndependence is a course for students as they prepare themselves for life after high school. Whether pursuing that first job or attendingcollege, all students will benefit from acquiring these skills. They will utilize the Naviance database that allows students to research a varietyof career and schooling options that will help build a personal and professional plan for success. Some of the topics covered in the courseinclude: personal budgeting, checkbook writing and balancing, housing options, automobile costs, income taxes, and other financial options.5340 Money ManagementPrerequisite: Junior and Senior Status (Highly Recommended)Money Management provides students with the exposure to learn how to manage their finances. Students explore monetary topics pertainingto the creation, preservation, and growth of personal wealth. They will employ strategies to successfully budget, save, and manage theirfinances while learning how to minimize exposure to risk. Topics discussed include: job and career analysis using the Naviance database,checking accounts and reconciliation, saving and investing options, stocks, bonds, mutual funds, budgeting, loan and credit options, creditcards, income and payroll taxes.5330 Retail Fashion MerchandisingPrerequisite: NoneThis course introduces the student to the fashion industry from a marketing perspective. Topics will include the fundamentals of fashionmarketing, types of businesses involved in the industry, and the array of career opportunities available in fashion marketing. Areas of studyinclude an introduction to fashion design, the fashion industry, market research, fashion cycles, fashion promotion, advertising, buying, textiledesign, and career exploration. Students develop skills in such areas as fashion economics, marketing segmentation and target marketing,product selection and buying, and inventory systems. Through using Naviance, they will uncover possible career choices in this field. Theywill also complete an individual business hypothesis on a topic or subject of interest approved by instructor.5310 Sports and Entertainment MarketingPrerequisite: NoneThis course introduces students to the world of marketing and advertising and the powerful impact it plays in our economy. Throughresearch, planning, and execution, students will discover how important the role of marketing not only plays in the sports and entertainmentindustries, but all industries across the globe. Other areas of study include the marketing mix, market segmentation, economic utility, thefunctions of marketing, elements of selling, and distribution. Students will create their own marketing plan on a product or service. Throughusing Naviance, they will uncover possible career choices in this field. They will also complete an individual business hypothesis on a topic orsubject of interest approved by instructor.13

5570 Global Entrepreneurial/International BusinessPrerequisite: Junior or Senior statusWe live in a global marketplace. Technology has made global markets accessible. Today’s youth around the world are learning how tointeract on a global level, by learning customs, cultures, and business practices. Global entrepreneurial/International Business will introducestudents to the understanding of the interrelationships between different counties' political and economic policies, and business practices.Topics include awareness of Global Entrepreneurial/International Business, communication strategies, environmental factors, ethics, finance,management practices, and import/export and balance of trade issues. Exposure to real world economics as they affect everyday life is animportant topic for today’s business savvy students. The Naviance program will aid in a career search within the World Market.Technology Courses5540 AP Computer Science –Prerequisite: Junior, and Senior Status - Students must have successfully completed or be currently enrolled in Algebra II andhave successfully completed one of the following: Visual Basic Gaming, Java or have obtained permission of the instructor.AP Computer Science introduces students to the formal concepts of object-oriented computer programming, including program design,control structures, data structures and algorithms using the Java programming language. It is a year-long course designed to be comparableto a first year college level computer programming class. The curriculum of AP Computer Science in Java is based on the syllabusdeveloped by the College Board. Topics include program design and implementation, algorithm analysis, standard data structures, andobject-oriented programming design. AP Computer Science in Java emphasizes programming methodology with an emphasis on problemsolving and algorithm development. It is intended to serve both as introductory courses for computer science majors, and for students whowill major in disciplines that require significant involvement with computing.5100 Computer Applications 1This course is required for all 9 th grade students. It combines two fundamental elements of instruction geared to help first year high schoolstudents: gaining essential computer skills and initiating a career plan for success. Students will become proficient in all phases of MS-Office programs including: Excel, Access, Word, Power Point, Movie Maker, Web Page Design, Micro Type, Naviance, MAP Testing, InternetSafety, Cyber Bullying, and EverFi designed for Financial Literacy.5550 Computer Applications 2/Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) Certification TrainingPrerequisite: Computer Applications/ Information Technology or Placement ExamThis course will cover Microsoft Office Word (word processing) in detail so that students may use their skills to work toward a MOScertification. The MOS certification provides employers with proof that students have received official training and have proven themselveson a national certification exam. This certification provides a globally recognized standard for individuals seeking to advance their careers asmost employers accept this certification as proof of proficiency. The Computer Applications 2 part of this course trains students in theadvanced components of Microsoft Office Excel (spreadsheet), Access (database), and PowerPoint (presentation) so that students canenhance their skills while working on integrated projects.5500 Information TechnologyThis course meets the computer applications requirement for graduation. It is designed for those students who were unable to scheduleComputer Applications during their freshman year, as well as for those who did not perform well academically. It combines two fundamentalelements of instruction geared to help first year students gain essential computer skills and initiate a career plan for success. Students willbecome proficient in all phases of MS-Office programs including: Excel, Access, Word, Power Point, Movie Maker, Web Page Design, MicroType, Naviance, MAP Testing, Internet Safety, Cyber Bullying, and EverFi designed for Financial Literacy.5520 Java ProgrammingPrerequisite: Visual Basic or Learning Visual Basic through GamingThis course is designed for those students who already have an interest and experience in computer languages. Essential concepts, syntax,and programming and naming standards will be discussed. Additionally, the use and impact of numbering systems, data representations,the fundamentals of structured programming, problem solving object oriented programming will be discusses. Upon completion of thiscourse, students will have a solid foundation that will enable them to start writing their own programs.5560 Learning Visual Basic through GamingPrerequisite: Completion of Computer Applications 1 or 2Geared towards students who thrive in a non-traditional, but creative and fun environment, this entry-level programming class is gearedtowards students who are new to computer programming. Through games, they will be introduced to program design using concepts ofstructured programming and logic in the Windows environment. Programming topics include variables, data types, control structures,looping, program breaks, and arrays. The student will learn traditional programming concepts, but with an emphasis in applications gameprogramming and game development. Planning topics include program development, organization, and documentation.14

ENGLISHStudents must successfully complete the required sequence of English classes in order to graduate from Bensalem High School. Allstudents should select the level of course difficulty according to their language ability. Course content and materials may vary somewhat. AllEnglish courses contain elements of the fundamentals of communication: reading, writing, listening and speaking, and are planned to havestudents successfully meet State Standards. Because all English courses involve reading and writing, instruction and practice in criticalthinking are inherent in English courses at all grade levels.The members of the English department strongly suggest that all students select their career program carefully, with a realistic appraisal ofskill levels. Sequential skill development is a focus of all English courses. Poor performance or failure in any grade level English classhinders that skill development, which can continue to interfere with skill development in subsequent grades.Examinations are required in all core courses. Students will have experience in the Computer Writing Laboratory as part of their courses inEnglish. The process of research is integrated into all appropriate English courses at all grade levels.Guide for Choosing an Appropriate ProgramThe College prep student is:A student who should have an average or above average grade from the previous year’s class. He/she is motivated and intends togo to college. The student is articulate in speech and writing and is energetic and committed to college preparatory work and he/sheis capable of independent reading.The Honors English student is:Capable and highly motivated and clear about goals for post secondary education, demonstrating the ability to achieve the higherstandards demanded by advanced level courses. Requirements include, but are not limited to, proficiency or advanced status inreading and writing, superior grades from prior year’s courses, and ability to complete rigorous assignments to include mandatorypre-course reading assignments.The Gifted English student is:One who has met the state mandated guidelines in the gifted program and is capable and highly motivated and clear about goals forpost secondary education, demonstrating the ability to achieve the higher standards demanded by advanced level courses.Recommendations include, but are not limited to, proficiency or advanced status in reading and writing, and ability to completerigorous assignments to include mandatory pre-course reading assignments.The Advanced Placement student:Accepts the challenge of meeting the demanding criteria of a college-level curriculum of intense and in-depth study of the Englishlanguage and English Literature. The AP student must be willing to read and to write with greater understanding and expressionthan in most classes. The AP student should expect to take the AP final exam not just for possible college credit, but for thedemonstration of his/her new found understanding of the AP curriculum.GRADE 90100 College Prep English 9Prerequisite: NoneThis course is designed to provide instruction and practice in critical thinking that is provided through the study of literary genres:novels, plays, short stories and poems. Independent reading and writing skills are required. Along with writing assignments relatedto the readings, students will learn research and speaking skills. Instructional preparation for the SAT’s will include review anddevelopment of standard usage, grammar and mechanics. Summer reading will be required.0120 Honors English 9Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation required and student must earn a “B” as a final grade as an 8 th grader.Honors English 9 is the first in the sequence of courses designed to accommodate those students whose reading abilities, writingskills and critical thinking skills function at a higher level. The pace of the course is accelerated and the workload increased.Students who register should be consistent and self-motivated workers. The course is designed to concentrate on higher-levelanalytical writing skills and the development of an understanding of literature. This course is geared to prepare students for coursesthat rely heavily on superior verbal and composition skills and a broad knowledge of literature. Summer reading will be required.0130 Gifted English 9Prerequisite: Students must meet state-mandated guidelines for placement in the gifted program.The 9 th grade gifted English curriculum emphasizes project-based instruction, group instruction, and guided discussion. Studentsstudy parallel units with the 9 th grade gifted World Cultures course focusing on world literature. Students are able to engage in independentresearch studies and learn about a diverse array of authors. Students also concentrate on developing focused, clear, and well-organizedwriting in all formats. Summer reading will be required.15

GRADE 100200 College Prep English 10Prerequisite: NoneThis course is designed to provide instruction and practice in critical thinking through the study of literary genres: novels, plays, shortstories, and poems. Independent reading and writing skills are required for this course. Along with writing assignments related to thereading, students will continue to develop research and speaking skills. Instructional preparation for the SAT’s will further develop thestandard usage, grammar and mechanical skills presented in 9 th grade. Students will explore possible career paths and educationalinstitutions through the use of research and on-line databases, such as Naviance. Summer reading will be required.0220 Honors English 10Prerequisite: Student must have earned an “A” in College Prep English 9This course is the second in the sequence of courses designed to accommodate those students whose reading abilities, writing skillsand critical thinking skills function at a higher level. The pace of the course is accelerated and the workload increased. Students whoregister should be consistent and self-motivated workers. The course is designed to concentrate on higher-level analytical writingskills and the development of an understanding of literature. This course is geared to prepare students to complete those coursesthat rely heavily on verbal and composition skills and a broad knowledge of literature. Students will explore possible career pathsand educational institutions through the use of research and on-line data bases, such as Naviance. Summer reading will be required.0230 Gifted English 10Prerequisite: Students must meet state-mandated guidelines for placement in this programThe creative use of critical thinking skills in reading, writing, and discussion is vital here. World literature, as presented in a variety ofliterary genres, centers on these themes: individuality; moral dilemma of conscience verses authority; appearance versus reality;social injustices and abuse of power. There is continued emphasis on the correlation between history, literature, and the arts.Summer reading is required.GRADE 110300 College Prep English 11Prerequisite: noneThis course is designed to provide instruction and practice in critical thinking which is provided through the study of Americanliterature, including novels, plays, short stories, and poems. Independent reading and writing skills are required. Along with writingassignments related to the reading, students will extend their research skills. This course includes activities designed to review and tostrengthen SAT test-taking skills such as the SAT Vocabulary Program. Summer reading will be required.0320 Honors English 11Prerequisite: Student must have earned an “A” in College Prep English 9This course is the third in the sequence of courses designed to accommodate those students whose reading abilities, writing skillsand critical thinking skills function at a more challenging level. The pace of the course is accelerated and the workload is increased.Students who register should be consistent and self-motivated workers. The course is designed to concentrate on higher-levelanalytical writing skills and the development of an understanding of American literature. Summer reading will be required.0330 Gifted English 11Prerequisite: Students must meet state-mandated guidelines for placement in the Gifted Program.Thematic study of American literature incorporates the genres of essays, poetry, short stories and novels to illustrate and stress thethemes being covered. The approach encourages students to see the relationships among literature, art and history of America.Students strive for excellence in communication skills with various group and individual assignments. Summer reading will be required.0390 Advanced Placement English 11: Language and CompositionThe AP English Language and Composition course teaches and requires students to write in several forms such as narrative,expository, analytical, and argumentative essays and also in informal contexts about a variety of subjects (pop culture, politics,science, technology, etc.). The course requires various composition assignments that are based on readings that represent a varietyof prose styles and genres. Students are taught the basic elements of rhetoric: writing with purpose, addressing and appealing to anaudience, creating effective text structures, and adopting an appropriate style. Students write essays that proceed through severalstages or drafts with multiple revisions. Summer reading and a follow-up assignment are required.16

GRADE 120400 College Prep English 12Prerequisite: NoneThis course is the final year of a sequential program. Instruction and practice in critical thinking are provided through the study ofBritish literature, including novels, plays, short stories, and poems. Independent reading and writing skills are required. This courseincludes activities designed to review and to strengthen SAT test-taking skills and vocabulary development. Summer reading will berequired.0420 Honors English 12Prerequisite: Student must have earned an “A” in College Prep English 11;This course is designed to accommodate those students whose reading abilities, writing skills and critical thinking skills function at amore challenging level. The pace of the course is accelerated and the workload increased. Students who register should beconsistent and self-motivated workers. The course is designed to concentrate on high-level analytical writing skills and thedevelopment of an understanding of literature. Honors English 12 is geared to prepare students to successfully complete thosecourses which rely heavily on verbal and composition skills and a broad knowledge of world literature. Summer reading will berequired. Summer reading will be required.0430 Gifted English 12Prerequisite: Students must meet state-mandated guidelines for placement in the Gifted ProgramThe goal of this course is to consciously examine man and his beliefs as they are reflected in the humanities: philosophy, literature,and the arts. In a seminar approach, students examine the basic elements of philosophical and critical characteristics of the maturehero in his quest for love and honor and of the anti-hero, his isolation, violence and aggression. Students will continue to perfect theircritical thinking and communication skills. Summer reading will be required.0490 Advanced Placement English 12: Literature and Composition-The AP English: Literature and Composition course engages students in the careful reading and critical analysis of imaginativeliterature. Through the close reading of selected texts, students deepen their understanding of the ways that writers use language toprovide both meaning and pleasure for their readers. As they read, students will consider a work’s structure, style, and themes aswell as the use of figurative language, imagery, symbolism, and tone. Summer reading and a follow-up assignment are required.0500 Literacy StrategiesPrerequisite: Students are assigned based on multiple criteria in lieu of an elective creditStudents are placed in this course based on assessment data and teacher recommendation.This course provides students with the active reading skills and strategies that are required to be successful with high school content areaclasses. The course will focus on the reading process, building a strong vocabulary, active reading strategies, developing root wordknowledge, note taking skills and reading for a deeper understanding. Students will read from a variety of texts and mediums. Throughoutthe year, a student’s reading progress will be assessed. At the end of the course, students will know how to conduct authentic research andread critically for information and then apply their research in writing.ENGLISH ELECTIVESElective courses may be taken in addition to the required English courses. Elective courses provide students with an opportunity for in-depthstudy and experience in areas that are touched upon in many of the required courses. As with the required English classes at any level ofdifficulty, the key to success in any of these electives stays the same: daily attendance and commitment to completing all assignments.0610 Creative WritingPrerequisite: Junior or Senior StatusThis course is for students who possess competent writing skills and wish to extend those skills into other areas of writing.Students will experience writing poetry, drama, short fiction and non-fiction. This is not a remedial or basic composition course.0620 Speech and DebatePrerequisite: NoneThis course begins with several informative speeches and a review of basic public speaking skills. The middle of the course introduces theelements of persuasion and debate using a variety of current issues as topics for discussion. Some research is required. The course endswith social occasion and impromptu speeches.17

0630 Introduction to Media CommunicationsPrerequisite: Sophomore level course based on application and instructor approval.This course is designed for sophomores who are interested in pursuing a career in the communications field. This course is designedto give students a theoretical background in video and television production. The class will be held in a computer classroom settingas opposed to the media studio. Students will learn the textbook techniques needed to succeed in the more advanced MediaCommunications courses offered at Bensalem High School. This course will also include communicative and life skills that areimportant for intrapersonal communications. These will be taught through various readings by Dale Carnegie and Pat Croce, as wellas through short writing assignments based on different quotes given each day as writing prompts. This course acts as a prerequisitefor Media Communications 1.0640 Media Communications 1Prerequisite: Junior Level CourseJunior students who have successfully completed the introductory course, will learn the hands-on techniques associated with videoand television production. Emphasis will be placed on either live television production or pre-recorded productions. In both cases,students will learn how to operate the television studio, anchor news shows, videotape events, and engage in high-end video editing.Video editing will be performed on non-linear editing systems equipped with Final Cut editing software. The aim of this course is toallow students to apply the theoretical skills learned in the introductory class as they learn the hands-on skills required to succeed inthe advanced class offered to seniors. Productions are aired on close-circuited television in the high school and on the communitycable channel 6. Students will be required to commit time to projects in the afternoon, evening, and occasionally during the schoolday to videotape events throughout the district.0650 Media Communications 2Prerequisite: Senior Level CourseSenior students who have successfully completed the introductory course and Media Communications 1 will apply the skills they havelearned during their sophomore and junior years. Emphasis will be placed on both live television production and pre-recorded productions.Students will operate the television studio, anchor news shows, videotape events, and engage in high–end video editing, while helping juniorstudents learn the basics. Video editing will be performed on non-linear editing systems equipped with Final Cut editing software. The aimof this course is to allow students to apply the theoretical and hands-on skills learned in the previous classes as they produce shows thataired on close-circuited television in the high school and on community cable channel. Students will be required to commit time to projects inthe afternoon, evening, and occasionally during the school day to videotape events throughout the district.0660 Film and Literary AnalysisPrerequisite: Sophomore, Junior, and Senior StatusThe goal of this course is to develop students’ abilities to view films critically and to deepen their understanding of the film experience.This course will help students better understand how films communicate with the viewer and have an effect on them. Students will study andwrite about movies as literature, considering theme, plot, character, style and other literary techniques. Students should expect to writeessays and complete frequent reading selections. Parents and students are urged to be aware that films may have strong thematic elements,disturbing images, or other mature content. Ratings of the films include G, PG, and PG-13.0670 Public SpeakingPrerequisite: NonePublic speaking focuses on interpersonal communication and public speaking. The goal of this course is to introducestudents to a wide variety of informal and formal modes of oral communication so that they may become comfortable and adept atpublic speaking. Students will perform a variety of speeches using different formats and strategies.0600 Journalism/YearbookPrerequisite: Written application and personal interviewThe journalism course dovetails with all aspects of the publishing of the high school yearbook. Students work with photography,layout and design, theme development, artistic interpretation, pagination and also written aspects of the book. Staff membersbecome fully familiar with different publishing terms, methods and styles. A thorough knowledge of the arts as a designmedium, literary expertise and computer design programs are required.0680 Introduction to ActingPrerequisite: NoneThis course is designed to introduce students to the basic techniques of acting through theater games and improvisation. The essential skillsnecessary for acting, staging, and stage directing will be explored through a variety of exercises. Students will be required to improvisesituations and pantomimes, and prepare monologues and scenes for this class.18

0690 Graduation Seminar/Prerequisite: open to 11 th gradeSAT, Keystone, college prep, etc.- not relevant to 12th graders)This course is centered on three critical components; research, Keystone proficiency in literature and the Graduation Project. Specific topicsinclude; Keystone prep, test-taking skills with a strong focus on vocabulary, research/internet skills, and the State required GraduationProject.0102 Assessment Strategies and Skills for English Literature –Prerequisite: Student fails Keystone English/Literature testThis course is offered to students who are in need of improving their skills in English Literature, comprehension and other English areas asthey relate to the Keystone State tests. The course will focus on attainment of the skills, concepts, and test-taking strategies presented in theKeystone Test and will be individualized to meet the needs of each student’s area of weakness. Students will be enrolled in this coursebased on their previous assessment results and/or academic performance during their previous English courses. (Assigned supplementaloffering; not for English credit but an elective credit.)ENGLISH FOUNDATIONS _____________________________________________________________________4001 English Foundations 1Prerequisite: None______This course is designed for students who have limited English proficiency. Students will learn the names of everyday objects and activities.A focus will be placed on helping students become comfortable speaking English. Fundamental English speaking, reading, writing andlistening skills will be practiced. Students will learn how to ask and answer basic questions. Topics concerning American culture will betaught. Basic mathematics terminology will also be covered. Upon scoring at the second level of the yearly WIDA ACCESS assessment,students will advance to English Foundations 2.4011 English Foundations 2Prerequisite: NoneThis course is designed for students who have developed basic English skills. Continuing to build students emerging English skills will bethe focus of this course. English grammar, writing and reading skills will be the main content of this course. Topics covered will include theparts of speech, plurals, use of commas, essay writing, figurative language and reading comprehension. Upon scoring at the third level ofthe yearly WIDA ACCESS assessment, students will advance to English Foundations 3.4021 English Foundations 3Prerequisite: NoneThis is an intermediate level ESL English course. It is designed for students to improve their English skills in speaking, listening, reading andwriting to a higher level in order to succeed in their social and academic environments. Upon scoring at the fourth level of the yearly WIDAACCESS assessment, students will advance to English Foundations 4.4031 English Foundations 4Prerequisite: NoneThis is an advanced level ESL English course. It is designed for students to continue improving their skills in speaking, listening, reading andwriting. Students will exit the ESL program once they have demonstrated English proficiency according to the WIDA exit criteria guidelines.FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCE6110 Family and Consumer Science 1Prerequisite: recommended for grades 9 and 10Students will be instructed in each of three standard areas of Family and Consumer Sciences. These areas include – Financial andResource Management, Balancing Family, Work, and Community Responsibility, and Food Science and Nutrition. Both theory andlaboratory experiences will be explored.6130 Foods and Nutrition (successful completion of Family and Consumer Science is recommended)Prerequisite: recommended for grades 11 and 12This course will afford students the opportunity to acquire an in depth knowledge of nutrition and utilize this knowledge in the planning andpreparing of basic foods in a foods laboratory setting. Special emphasis will be placed on nutritional needs of the teenager and planningmeals that meet both nutritional and lifestyle needs.19

6140 Child DevelopmentPrerequisite: Junior and Senior Status, written application and interviewThe course is an in-depth study of children from birth to school age with special emphasis on the 4 & 5-year old. It is designed to be anintroduction to working with young children, and a laboratory setting is provided for interaction with, observation of, and evaluation of preschoolchildren. Special emphasis will be placed on the social, emotional, physical and cognitive development of children.INDUSTRIAL ARTS/TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION6200 Computer-aided Drafting and Design (CADD)Prerequisite: NoneThis course is designed as an introductory drafting and design course. Students will start out with very basic sketching and drawingtechniques that will lead into more complicated computer generated drawings and blueprint type drawings. This course is a prerequisite forall other computer-aided or CADD-assisted courses.6230 Metals TechnologyPrerequisite: NoneThe student will practice basic and advanced gas and arc welding. The planning and completion of various student and instructor-generatedprojects help to further develop basic machining skills. An introduction to computer-aided machining helps to round out this course.6240 Basic Woodworking TechnologiesPrerequisite: NoneThis course is designed as an introductory course in woodworking along with other associated skills and techniques. This course is designedfor those students with little or no experience in woodworking and tool or machine use. The class centers around the skills needed to safely,effectively and properly use a variety of hand tools and machines to create products. Throughout the course students will gain knowledge inthe following areas: planning and designing a product, pricing and marketing products, mass production (manufacturing), etc.6250 Home RepairPrerequisite: NoneA do-it-yourself attitude will be emphasized in this course. All areas of home construction will be explored including: electrical, plumbing,heating, framing, and roofing. Students will learn how to safely operate various tools and machines while completing projects and modulardesign work. Basic trouble-shooting skills will also be emphasized along with planning and budgeting for home improvements.6260 Engineering 101This course is designed to be an introductory course to engineering. Students will build on skills they learned at the middle school level tocontinue in the development of their knowledge of engineering and technology in society. The main emphasis of this course will be problemsolving using the engineering design process along with utilizing computer aided design software. Students will enhance their knowledge oftechnology by studying its impacts on society, various uses of technology in society, technology evolutions, designing for technology andtechnology systems all of which will be related to various areas of engineering. Emphasis will be placed on products and skills used in theengineering and manufacturing world with the use of a variety of tools, design software, machines, and other equipment.6270 Engineering 102 (Prerequisite course is Engineering 101 or teacher/administrative approval) (pending Budget Approval)This course is designed to build upon skills and knowledge learned in the introductory course (Engineering 101). Students will build on skillsthey learned in the previous course to continue in the development of their knowledge of engineering and technology in society. Problemsolving and the engineering design process will be emphasized in this course along with utilizing computer aided design software. Studentswill build upon their knowledge of technology and engineering by studying more in depth the impacts of technology and engineering onsociety, technology evolutions, more advanced design techniques for technology and more complex technological systems and engineeringtechniques. Emphasis will be placed on products and skills used in the engineering world with the use of a variety of tools, design software,machines, and other equipment.6480 Graphic Arts/PrintingPrerequisite: NoneStudents in this course will further develop their skills in Graphic Arts. Students will use the Macintosh computer and work primarily in AdobeIllustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, Freehand, and the Internet for the designing process. The course will touch on basic animation. They willuse scanner, digital copier, and bindery areas to complete various printing projects. Students will be illustrating, designing, and printingdocuments such as letterhead, business cards, brochures, logos, three-dimensional images, newsletters and program covers for personal,school and community use.20

6500 Introduction to PhotographyPrerequisite: NoneThis course will introduce the student to the principles of photographic design and photography as a medium of expression. Half of the yearwill be spent learning the 35mm film camera, developing film, printing and presentation of the pictures. The other half of the course, thestudents will use their own digital camera to take pictures and learn to edit them in Photoshop with the Macintosh computers.6510 Advanced Black & White PhotographyPrerequisite: Successful completion of Black and White Photography / Digital Photography (6500)The emphasis of this course will be using the 35mm SLR camera. Students will expand their basic knowledge of the darkroom along withlearning the special effects of sepia toning, blue toning, hand coloring and professional presentation. There is a lab fee associated with thiscourse of $35.00, which will cover the cost of the photographic paper & 5 rolls of film.6520 Digital Photography/PhotoshopPrerequisite: Successful completion of Black and White Photography / Digital Photography (6500)Students in this class will expand their knowledge of photography through the use of the Digital Camera, Scanned Film and the Macintoshcomputer. They will explore portrait, food, object and sport photography. Students will create, enhance and modify their photo expressionsin the digital realm with an in-depth study of Photoshop. Students must have their own digital cameras and phones do not meet thisrequirement.MATHEMATICSThe Secondary Mathematics Mission Statement: As secondary mathematics teachers in the Bensalem Township School District, our missionis to provide math instruction that encompasses everyday problem solving skills while utilizing literacy, real world applications andincorporating technology. This will be accomplished by providing a safe learning environment where all students have the opportunity tobecome lifelong mathematical thinkers capable of succeeding in our ever-changing world. We are committed to providing a quality educationto our students by continually educating ourselves, reflectively revising curriculum, monitoring and sharing instructional strategies andaddressing the needs of individual students.The Mathematics Program at the High School offers a complete four-year secondary school curriculum for all students. A sequence ofmathematics courses offered at the high school follows the course description. Bensalem High School’s program of problem-basedmathematics includes the traditional topics of Algebra 1 – Geometry – Algebra II/Trigonometry – Pre-Calculus and Calculus. This curriculummeets college entrance requirements and prepares the students to use problem-solving skills at school and on the job. As students enterinto professions and trades, demands will be placed on them that focus on their problem-solving and communication skills. Preparingstudents for the challenges of business and industry requires a shift in instruction away from manipulation of symbols and procedures towardan in-depth, conceptual understanding of mathematics. Your mathematics program integrates traditional areas of mathematics with newtopics such as probability, statistics, discrete mathematics, and matrix algebra and includes the use of graphing calculators and computers.The students are evaluated on class participation, homework assignments, and unit assignments, quizzes, and tests. The mathematicscourses that follow have recommendations. In all the mathematics courses, any absence or incomplete assignment will detract from thestudent’s understanding of the course content, which may directly affect the grade earned in the course.For most math classes the TI-83, TI-83 Plus, or TI-84 Plus are the required calculators.2130 Foundations of Algebra 1Prerequisite: Pre-Algebra or administrative discretion.This course is designed to give students a mathematically sound introduction to algebra. The student is given the opportunity to developfundamental algebraic skills and concepts based on the structure of the system of real numbers such as equations, inequalities, problemsolving, polynomials, factoring, graphs and functions, simultaneous equations, irrational numbers, square roots, relations, functions, andstatistics. Because graphing activities are integrated throughout classroom presentations and textbook activities, a graphing calculator isrequired for this course. As part of the course, the student will be scheduled for a math enrichment elective to reinforce conceptstaught in the Algebra 1 program.2120 College Prep Algebra 1Prerequisite: Minimum of “B” in Pre-AlgebraAlgebra 1 applies previously learned arithmetic skills to expressions involving variables. The fundamental operations and their properties arestudied. Topics include: factors, exponents, radicals, polynomial expressions, rational expressions and some data analysis. Students learnhow to solve linear and quadratic equations, inequalities, and word problems. Students entering this course need to complete the summerpacket for Algebra 1 which can be found on the district website under the student tab.2210 College Prep GeometryPrerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra 2This course introduces students to the study of points, lines, planes and space. Topics include angles, angles measurement, triangles,quadrilaterals, congruence, similarity, measurement, circles, parallel lines, solid figures, perimeter, area, volume coordinate geometry logic,21

proof, and transformations. Integration of Algebra skills is essential for this course. Geometer’s Sketchpad will aid students withvisualizations and the formation of conjectures. Students entering this course need to complete the summer packet for Advanced Geometrywhich can be found on the district website under the student tab.2220 Honors GeometryPrerequisite: Minimum of “B” in Algebra 2 and teacher recommendationThis course is a study of the major ideas of geometry and the basic properties of geometric figures, with an emphasis on formal proofs.Topics include angles, angle measurement, triangles, congruent triangles, quadrilaterals and other polygons, circles, parallel lines, solidfigures, perimeter, area, volume, and geometric probability. An ability to perform basic algebra skills is necessary. This course is appropriatefor students preparing for a scientifically oriented College curriculum. Students should be highly motivated, able to think and process mathconcepts quickly and in alternate fashion. Students should be recommended by their teacher and must have earned a solid “B” in Algebra 1in the middle school. A graphing calculator is recommended for this course. This course covers the same material as Advanced Geometry,but in greater depth. The course also covers additional topics; therefore, the pace is more rapid than that of Advanced Geometry. Studentsentering this course need to complete the summer packet for Honors Geometry which can be found on the district website under the studenttab.2310 College Prep Algebra 2Prerequisite: successful completion of Algebra 1This course reviews and extends the concepts of College Prep Algebra 1 by going into more depth in studying equations, inequalities,problem solving, factoring, irrational numbers, linear equations, and simultaneous equations. New topics include the study of polynomial,quadratic, radical, rational, exponential, greatest integer, and logarithmic functions. Also covered in the course are matrices, linearregression lines, and scatter plot graphs. Students entering this course need to complete the summer packet for Algebra 2 which can befound on the district website under the student tab.2320 Honors Algebra 2Prerequisite: Minimum of “B” in Algebra 1 or administrative discretionThis course covers the same material as Advanced Algebra 2, but in greater depth. The course also covers additional topics; therefore, thepace is more rapid than that of College Prep Algebra 2. Honors Algebra 2 reviews and extends the following algebraic concepts: equations,inequalities, problem solving, factoring, irrational numbers, linear equations and simultaneous equations. New topics include the study ofcomplex numbers, functions and their inverses, matrices, linear programming, polynomial, quadratic, exponential and logarithmic functions.Students should be highly motivated, able to think and process math concepts quickly and in alternate fashion. Students should berecommended by their teacher and must have earned a solid “B” in Honors Algebra 1 in the middle school. Because graphing activities areintegrated throughout classroom presentations and textbook activities, a graphing calculator is used extensively in this course and isrequired. Students entering this course need to complete the summer packet for Honors Algebra 2 which can be found on the districtwebsite under the student tab.2400 Intermediate Math Concepts (THIS CLASS IS NOT OFFERED FOR 2013-2014)Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra 2This course is intended for college bound students who do not plan on majoring in mathematics. It includes material likely to be encounteredin a required freshmen college mathematics course. Topics include: logic, sets, linear programming, matrices, probability and statistics,polar and vector coordinates, logarithms, and Venn diagrams. This course emphasizes a hands-on approach to the application ofmathematics. Students entering this course need to complete the summer packet for intermediate math Concepts which can be found on thedistrict website under the student tab.2410 TrigonometryPrerequisite: Minimum of “C” in Algebra 2 or administrative discretionThis course includes the study of trigonometric functions both as circular functions and as ratios in similar right triangles. Throughout thecourse real-life problem situations will be used to connect trigonometry to many other fields and occupations. Algebra skills will bestrengthened as needed. Technology will be an integral part of instruction. A graphing calculator is recommended for this course. The TI-83,TI-83 Plus or TI-84 Plus are the required calculators. Students entering this course need to complete the summer packet for trigonometrywhich can be found on the district website under the student tab. An assessment will be given during the first week of school to ensuremastery of previous mathematics course concepts.2520 Pre-CalculusPrerequisite: Minimum of “C” in Honors Algebra 2 or Trigonometry or administrative discretion22

This course prepares students for modern courses in Calculus and Abstract Algebra. Topics include polynomial functions, trigonometry,exponential and logarithmic functions and analytic geometry. Students in this course must be prepared to spend at least one hour each nighton course work. Students entering this course need to complete the summer packet for Pre-Calculus which can be found on the districtwebsite under the student tab. An assessment will be given during the first week of school to ensure mastery of previous mathematicscourse concepts.2620 CalculusPrerequisite: Minimum “C” in Pre-Calculus or administrative discretionCourse topics include limits, differential calculus and some integral calculus will be covered. Other topics include functions, derivatives andtheir applications and integral calculus and its applications. Calculus 1 parallels the first-semester of most college calculus courses.Students must have an excellent command of algebraic processes to successfully complete this course.2690 Advanced Placement Calculus ABPrerequisite: Minimum “B” in Pre-Calculus or administrative discretionThis course is a full-year course covering AB and additional BC topics. It is designed to prepare students for either the AdvancedPlacement Calculus AB Examination or the BC exam. The course outline completes the recommended topics described by theCollege Board at a fast and intense pace to guarantee time for practice testing exercises. Students selecting this course should planto take the Advanced Placement Calculus AB or BC Examination. Students may be required to complete independent study in orderto prepare for the BC exam. Please visit the following website for more information: www.collegeboard.com2790 Advanced Placement Calculus BCPrerequisite: Minimum ‘B’ in AP Calculus AB or administrative discretionThis full-year course reviews the AB topics but transitions into the higher level functions presented and in preparation for the AP examin May. Please visit the following website for more information: www.collegeboard.com2630 StatisticsPrerequisite: Minimum of “C” in Algebra 2 or administrative discretionStatistics is designed to meet the mathematical and research needs of students who plan to enter such fields as economics, business,education, psychology, sociology, biology and medicine, as well as science and mathematics. This course is considered adequatepreparation for usual college courses offered in these fields. This course includes one part of probability that will both help the studentcalculate odds and learn to have fun with mathematics.2890 Advanced Placement StatisticsPrerequisite: Algebra 2This course is a continuation of Statistics. It will continue to explore major concepts and tools for collection, organizing, and gathering data todraw a conclusion. Exploring data, planning a study, anticipating patterns and statistical inference will be the major components of thecourse. The course outline is designed in conjunction with the recommendations of the Educational Testing Service. This course will befast-paced and requires students to complete various writing assignments in order to justify their findings. Students who take this courseshould plan to take the Advanced Placement Statistics Test.2100 - Assessment Strategies and Skills for Math – passes algebra 1 but does not demonstrate keystone proficiencyThis course is offered to students who are in need of improving their skills in algebra, geometry, and other math areas. The course will focuson attainment of the skills, concepts, and test-taking strategies presented in the PSSA and will be individualized to meet the needs of eachstudent’s area of weakness. Students will be enrolled in this course based on their previous assessment results and/or academicperformance during their previous math course. (Assigned intervention offering; not for math credit but an elective credit.)MUSICThe music department offers two types of music classes; those that are performance-based (i.e. band, choir, orchestra ensembles), andgeneral music classes. The general music classes are music technology, piano lab, and AP Music Theory. These classes are intended forstudents who wish to broaden their musical education. Band, choir and orchestra are ensembles designed for those students who desire toimprove and expand their musical skills and study music through performance. These courses are open to all students who participated intheir previous school’s music program, or those who have auditioned and have the permission of the director. Students selecting theprograms described below are required to participate in all activities as directed by the course syllabus in order to earn credit for the course.Enrollment in any of the following performance courses makes students eligible for co-curricular ensembles offered by the music department.* Marching Band, Jazz Ensemble, Percussion Ensemble, and Femineus Vocalis are co-curricular ensembles requiring out of classparticipation.**Ninth grade students who have elected music can defer Computer Applications or foreign language to another year when more electivesare possible.7430 Concert BandPrerequisite: Participation in the middle school (or former school) instrumental program, or auditionThis class is a performance-based class designed for instrumental music students who have participated in their previous school’s band23

program, students working on secondary instruments (with permission of the band director), or those who (with approval of the band director)are learning an instrument to participate in the band program. This is a full credit class that meets during the school day as a scheduledclass. Emphasis will be placed on proper tone production, technique, performance, rehearsal etiquette, and music reading skills. Studentswill perform a wide variety of instrumental music and concert band literature. Students will be required to attend all after school rehearsalsand all dress rehearsals leading up to the concert. Concert participation is mandatory and is a major part of the final grade. Participation inthis class is recommended before Symphonic Winds, but students may schedule Symphonic Wind Ensemble with a successful audition andapproval of the band director.7420 Symphonic Wind EnsemblePrerequisite: Participation in the concert band program, or auditionThis class is a performance-based class designed for instrumental music students who have participated in the concert band program, orthose who have successfully auditioned with the band director for acceptance into this group. This class in intended to be the second level ofcurricular study. This is a full credit class that meets during the school day as a scheduled class. Emphasis will be placed on proper toneproduction, technique, performance, rehearsal etiquette, and music reading skills. Students will perform a wide variety of instrumental musicand concert band literature. Students will be required to attend all after school rehearsals and all dress rehearsals leading up to the concert.Concert participation is mandatory and is a major part of the final grade.7520 Freshman ChoirPrerequisite: NoneFreshman Choir class will develop students’ music and vocal skills and techniques so that they may participate in all choral activities. Thischoral class meets every other day all year long. There are no after school rehearsals, and an average of 4- 5 nightly concerts are held eachyear. Freshman Choir is the first level of curricular choir at Bensalem High School. This choral class is designed to give first year choralstudents basic background in music and the fundamentals of choral singing. The Freshman Choir performs mostly three-part music, whichincludes two female parts and a male part. Students must be in ninth grade or be a first-year choral music student who demonstrates interestand ability to perform choral music. Freshman Choir is an open enrollment ensemble that requires no audition.7530 Women’s ChoirPrerequisite: NoneStudents enrolled in this choral class will further the musical and vocal skills and techniques they learned in Freshman Choir. This choralclass meets every other day all year long. There are no after school rehearsals and an average of 4-5 nightly concerts are held each year.Women’s Choir is an all-female ensemble that aims to build on the fundamentals of tone quality, musicianship, balance and blend that werepresented at the Grade 9 Choir level. Women’s Choir is the second level of curricular choir at Bensalem High School. The Women’s Choirperforms mostly three-part music, which includes two soprano parts and an alto part. This choral class is an open enrollment ensemble forfemales in grades 10, 11 and 12 and requires no audition, although students are encouraged to take Grade 9 Choir first. The choral directorreserves the right to determine exceptions.7540 Concert ChoirPrerequisite: NoneStudents may be enrolled in this ensemble after they have successfully completed one year of choral music study at Bensalem High School.This choral class meets either every other day, all year long or every day for one semester. There are no after school rehearsals, and anaverage of 4-6 nightly concerts are held each year. All male students, grades 10-12, participate in Concert Choir, while females, grades 11-12, are placed into this ensemble at the discretion of the choral director in order to achieve proper balance. Concert Choir is the second andthird level of curricular choir at Bensalem High School. The Concert Choir performs music in four parts, SATB. This ensemble is a mixedchoral group, which aims to further build upon the skills and techniques learned in Grade 9 Choir and/or Women’s Choir. Students in thisensemble are both expected and encouraged to audition for county, district and regional level ensembles.7620 OrchestraPrerequisite: Participation in the middle school or former school instrumental program, or auditionThis course is designed for string orchestra students, i.e. violin, viola, cello and bass. It is designed for string students with at least two yearsof playing experience, or those who have the director’s permission. Students will study and perform string orchestra literature of variousstyles. Concepts in music theory and history will be further explored. All students must demonstrate interest and ability to perform orchestralmusic. Students will be expected to attend all performances and rehearsals scheduled throughout the school year. Participation in the coursewill make students eligible to audition for the County, District, Regional and All-State Orchestra festivals held throughout the year.7700 AP Music TheoryPrerequisite: Students must be able to read musical notation. This course may be taken concurrently with a performance courseThis full year course is designed for the serious music student who wishes to fully understand the building blocks of musical composition,form and structure. It is highly recommended for those students who wish to continue either studying or playing music on the post-secondarylevel. This course will meet the criteria established by the Educational Testing Service as a registered AP course. Students are, therefore,24

strongly encouraged to take the AP exam in May for possible college credit. Students should check with their college of choice to determinehow such credit might be applied.7710 Music TechnologyPrerequisite: NoneThis course is designed for those students who wish to enhance their current musical abilities or who wish to expand their musicalawareness through technology. This course combines the use of keyboarding (piano) and computer skills and will meet in our musictechnology lab. Topics covered will include song writing, music editing/mastering, recording, and other related topics including basic musictheory and history.7730 Piano LabPrerequisite: NoneThis course is designed to teach beginners the basics of piano. An emphasis will be placed on musical literacy, including rhythm and pitch,as well as improvisation, chording, and keyboard techniques.JROTC7160 JROTC APrerequisite: Freshmen Status7162 JROTC BPrerequisite: Sophomore Status7168-7169 2 A and BPrerequisite: Junior and Senior StatusThis course is designed to start students on the road to better understanding the value of citizenship, service to the Unites States, personalresponsibility, and a sense of accomplishment. Students receive classroom instruction in the following curriculum areas: leadership,citizenship, personal growth and responsibility, public service and career exploration, and general military subjects. In addition, subjectssuch as physical conditioning and close order drill will be taught. Lessons provided within the curriculum include: financial management(three week program), ledge preparation, job application and interview process, resume writing, community service, military history, andmore. Students will also have the opportunity to become a member of the Bensalem High School MCJROTC close order drill team,marksmanship team, and color guard. Qualified students will have the opportunity to participate in a week-long orientation trip to a majormilitary installation.SCIENCEThe Bensalem Science Department has designed science programs to meet the needs of our students. All science courses meet and/orexceed the Pa. Science StandardsThe College-Prep program prepares students for college, technical school or the work force. Students will take life sciences and physicalscience courses. The courses place an emphasis on laboratory experiences, discussion and problem solving. Algebra I skills are essentialfor success in these courses.The Honors Program is designed for students who want to pursue a career in science and/or truly enjoy the challenge of a more rigorousscience program. The Honors Program addresses both the physical and life sciences in laboratory setting. Students in this program shouldalso be in the honors-level mathematics program.NOTE: In any science class, attendance and homework are two keys to success. Attendance for laboratory exercises is very importantsince many exercises are difficult to make up outside of class and most tests/quizzes are based on concepts learned during the labexercises.GRADE 93010 Foundations of PhysicsFoundations of Physics is a standard-level physics course that is aligned with Foundations of Algebra 1 mathematics course. Studentsenrolled in this course should be concurrently enrolled in Foundations of Algebra 1. Foundations of Physics will provide students with handson,tangible experiences that use the algebra skills they are learning in their math class. These experiences will reinforce the algebra andmake it relevant. The physics concepts being addressed in the course include how to describe and explain motion, conservation of energyand the conservation of momentum.3020 College Prep Energy and Your EnvironmentPrerequisite: None25

This course is designed for college-prep freshmen. The course will cover topics in energy and the environment and develop science processskills. Students will use outdoor classroom space, hands-on laboratory experiences, and computer simulations to develop a deepunderstanding of energy transformations and how these relate to our environment. Students will participate in a personal project to researchenvironmental systems or work on community action. As part of their study of energy and our environment, students will increase theirunderstanding of the scientific process, data gathering, data analysis and the mathematics associated with these skills.3120 Honors BiologyPrerequisites: Students should have an “A” average in their 8 th grade Algebra 1 and science classes.Honors Biology is devoted to the study of living things. The course uses a laboratory-oriented approach to study topics that includeBiochemistry, Biological change through time, Cell structure and function, Cell Energy, Genetics, Biotechnology, and Ecology. This coursewill exceed the State standards in science. Students should take this course if they are considering a career in science or engineering, orplan on taking Advanced Placement Biology, or other highly motivated students who want to experience a challenging course that willprepare them for honors courses in high school and college. The PA “Keystone” Exam in biology will be given to students at the end of thiscourse.GRADE 10-123110 College Prep BiologyPrerequisite: Successful completion Energy and Your EnvironmentThis course follows the college prep level Energy and Your Environmental Science Course. A biology course devoted to the study of livingthings that involves a laboratory-oriented approach. Major topics include biological change through time, Cell structure and function, CellEnergy, Homeostasis, and Genetics3120 Honors BiologyPrerequisite: Minimum of “A” in math and science classes.Honors Biology is devoted to the study of living things. The course uses a laboratory-oriented approach to study topics that include biologicalchange through time, Cell structure and function, Cell Energy, Homeostasis, and Genetics. This course will exceed the State standards inscience. Students will complete an independent research laboratory project as part of this course. Students are highly encouraged toparticipate in PJAS. Students should take this course if they are considering a career in science or engineering, or plan on taking AdvancedPlacement Biology, or other highly motivated students who want to experience a challenging course that will prepare them for honorscourses in high school or college.3210 College Prep ChemistryPrerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra 1 and biology, teacher recommendation and/or administrative discretionCollege Prep Chemistry is designed to provide an understanding and appreciation for fundamental chemical concepts and their applicationsto everyday life. The course includes laboratory experiments to develop and enhance students’ use of scientific methodology. In addition,mathematics is applied in laboratory experiments and problem solving. This course is designed to meet a portion of the Physical ScienceStandards from the State of Pennsylvania.3220 Honors ChemistryPrerequisites: Successful completion of Honors Biology, and Algebra I, teacher recommendation or administrative discretionIn Honors Chemistry, emphasis is placed upon chemical principles and their development through experiments and classroom discussion.This course is for the science-oriented student who plans a career in science or engineering, and who has demonstrated above averageability in math. Honors Chemistry is recommended for students planning to take AP Chemistry.3310 College Prep PhysicsPrerequisite: Algebra 1This course will concentrate on an area of physics known as Mechanics specifically in the areas of kinematics, dynamics (two dimensional),energy and momentum. These topics will be taught using a “modeling” approach to conceptual understanding. Students will act as scientistsby observing physical phenomena, collecting data, interpreting data, and then drawing conclusions. Students will discover patterns in thenatural world and develop theories to better explain the world in which they live.3320 Honors PhysicsRecommended: Successful Completion of Algebra 1 and Geometry (or concurrently enrolled with admin approval) with at minimum of a “B”This course will concentrate on an area of physics known as Mechanics specifically in the areas of kinematics and dynamics. In addition,students will be introduced to mechanical energy, momentum, circular motion and the Universal Law of Gravitation. These topics will be26

taught using a “modeling” approach to conceptual understanding. Students will act as scientists by observing physical phenomena, collectingdata, interpreting this data, and then drawing conclusions. Students will discover patterns in the natural world and develop the mathematicalrelationships that explain the world in which they live.SCIENCE ELECTIVES FOR SCIENCE GRADUATION CREDIT3190 Advanced Placement (AP) Biology3192: Prerequisites: Successful completion of honors biology and honors chemistryOR administrative discretionThe Advanced Placement (AP) Program provides an opportunity for high school students to pursue and receive college credit for collegelevelcourse work completed at the secondary school level. The AP program offers highly motivated students the opportunity to demonstratethe level of their ability and to prepare for success in college work. AP Biology at Bensalem is a program designed to prepare students forthe competition they will encounter in the most rigorous programs at the college level.During the year students will cover the AP curriculum. This curriculum includes college-level laboratory investigations. The AP Biologyteacher will meet with each student who has opted to take the course to review the packet of work that must be completed during thesummer prior to the fall semester. All students approved for the course must meet with the instructor in the spring of the year prior to takingthe course. After completion of the AP test in May, students will study human anatomy and physiology. The students will complete adetailed dissection of the fetal pig. Taking the Advanced Placement Biology exam is strongly encouraged for students selecting this course.3290 Advanced Placement (AP) Chemistry3292 Prerequisites: Students must be in the Honors Science Program, and have successfully completed Honors Biology and HonorsChemistry OR administrative discretionAP Chemistry at Bensalem High School is a program designed to prepare students for the competition they will encounter in the mostrigorous of programs at the college level. The course has two components. One is the preparation for the AP test that constitutes all the timeup to the test. The second component is a lab-based survey of additional topics in chemistry not covered in the AP curriculum. This iscovered after the AP test. The AP Chemistry teacher will meet with each student who has opted to take the course to review a packet ofwork that must be completed during the summer prior to the fall semester. All students approved for the course must meet with the instructorin the spring of the year prior to taking the course. Taking the Advanced Placement Chemistry exam is strongly encouraged for studentsselecting this course.3390 Advanced Placement (AP) Physics3392 Prerequisites: Successful completion of Honors physics, at least concurrently enrolled in Pre-Calculus OR administrative discretionThis course is designed as a second year physics course to prepare students for successful performance on the AP Physics B exam inMay. This two-semester course is recommended for students with a strong background in mathematics and who want to gain a deeperinsight into the fundamental nature of the universe. This is a survey course that will cover a wide variety of topics (Mechanics,Thermodynamics, Electricity and Magnetism, Optics). The AP Physics teacher will meet with each student who has enrolled in the course inthe spring prior to taking the course to review a packet of work that must be completed during the summer prior to taking the course. Takingthe Advanced Placement Physics exam is expected for students selecting this course.SCIENCE ELECTIVES THAT DO NOT RECEIVE A SCIENCE GRADUATION CREDIT3470 Anatomy and PhysiologyPrerequisites: Successful completion of BiologyThe Anatomy and Physiology course is designed for students who are interested in continuing their study of biology beyond Honors, CP oreven AP biology. Human body systems along with their interactions will be examined. We will also focus on evolutionary relationships, theirinfluence on contemporary form and function, and their value in understanding the biologic relationships between humans and otheranimals. Dissections will be performed as part of this course. Anatomy and Physiology will be particularly useful for those students whointend to enter medical, nursing, and allied health professions.3630 Independent Research in Science: 9-12 (STEM Science)This course uses project-based learning to learn about scientific research. Students will be exposed to techniques in Biology, Chemistry,Physics and Engineering while they research scientific questions or engineering problems. This laboratory-based course will require studentsto use laboratory, mathematical, computer-based research and presentation skills. Students will work individually or as part of a team toproduce projects that could be entered in science fairs or science Olympiad-like competitions. The course is open to all students but targetsstudents considering majoring in science or engineering in college. Students may enroll as freshman or upperclassmen. Upperclassmen willbe given the opportunity to work as mentors for freshman or other less advanced students.3600 Forensic Science27

Prerequisite: Biology or Chemistry courseThis is a lab-oriented course that is designed for students in 11 th and 12 th grades. This course introduces students to the world of ForensicScience. This course will follow the steps necessary to collect evidence, test and identify its source. Students will use DNA evidence,fingerprints as well as trace evidence to identify suspects. Areas of biology, chemistry and physics will be explored in this course.3000 Biology Keystone Supplemental Course:Prerequisite: Student passed biology but failed the Keystone Biology TestThis course is only open to students who have completed one year of biology but who have not passed the biology keystone exam. Thecourse is designed to support students in their efforts to complete the biology keystone graduation requirement. Students will focus on topicsthat relate to the module (section) of the test that the student failed. Students will use laboratory experiences and projects to review topics inbiology and environmental science. Students will re-take the Biology Keystone at the end of this course.SOCIAL STUDIESGRADE 91100 College Prep World HistoryPrerequisite: NoneThis course will explore as a comprehensive survey on the development of western society from the 1500 to the present times and its impacton world development. Students will explore historical events, key figures and their contribution in history. In addition students will exploretopics in depth, which places more demands on students to write, analyze and discuss their views. Reading and writing skills are importantfor successful completion of the course.1120 Honors World HistoryPrerequisite: Minimum of a “B” in 8 th grade Social Studies course or teacher recommendationHonors World History will explore as a comprehensive survey on the development of western society from the 1500 to the present times andits impact on world development. Students will explore historical events, key figures and their contribution to in history. In addition studentswill explore topics in depth, which places more demands on students to write, analyze and discuss their views. Students will be required toread assigned novels and historical documents. Reading and writing skills are very important for the successful completion of this course.1130 Gifted World HistoryPrerequisite: Students must meet state-mandated guidelines for placement in the Gifted ProgramThe ninth grade gifted World History integrates literature, philosophy and chronological history. Students will explore historical events, keyfigures and their contribution to in history. In addition students will explore topics in depth, which places more demands on students to write,analyze and discuss their views. Students will be required to read assigned novels and historical documents. Reading and writing skills arevery important for the successful completion of this course. Project-based self-learning is paramount for class completion.GRADE 101200 College Prep 20 th Century American HistoryPrerequisite: NoneThe College Prep 20 th Century American History course is designed to be a comprehensive survey of the economic, social and politicalforces which have shaped the history of the United States throughout the past century. This course places a strong emphasis uponleadership and the process of decision-making at the highest levels. As a college prep student, you should have a strong background ingeography, current events, and world history.1220 Honors 20 th Century American HistoryPrerequisite: Minimum of a “B” in 9 th Grade Honors World History or teacher recommendationThe Honors 20 th Century American History course is designed to provide students with an in-depth study of the significant forces which haveshaped the course of American history throughout the 20 th century. Students will be required to read from a series of documents, narrativesand a novel in addition to the textbook. This course will require a major commitment of time and effort in order to complete the additionalreading and writing assignments. An honors student should have a strong background in geography as well as the major cultural areas ofthe world.1230 Gifted American HistoryPrerequisite: Students must meet state-mandated guidelines for placement in the gifted program28

This course thematically studies the cause and effect relationships of major events of the Twentieth Century. The course attempts toachieve the American Dream, to understand America’s gains and losses through technology, to examine America’s search for identity in aconstantly changing society – all analyzed from an historical perspective. Concepts and ideas considered at the same time are examined inthe literature of the gifted English course.1290 Advanced Placement American HistoryPrerequisite: Minimum of a ”B” in Honors World History or teacher recommendationThe Advanced Placement American History Course is designed to cover a wide range of philosophical, political, and historicalaspects of American History. Emphasis will be placed on critical and evaluative thinking skills, essay writing and interpretation oforiginal historical documents. Students will be expected to read from a number of sources in addition to a college level textbook. Thisis a demanding course that requires a substantial commitment of time and effort. Taking the Advanced Placement American Historyexam is strongly encouraged for students selecting this course.GRADE 111300 College Prep American GovernmentPrerequisite: NoneThese courses are designed to be a comprehensive survey of the American legal system established by the Constitution. They place astrong emphasis upon the foundation and process in our government and basic concepts of our economy. Students who elect this coursewill have an adequate foundation for the study of government and economics at the college.1320 Honors American GovernmentPrerequisite: Minimum of a “B” in Honors American History or teacher recommendation.The Honors American Government course is designed to provide students with an in-depth study of the forces that have shaped Americangovernment and our economic system. Students will be required to complete additional research, readings and papers. An honors studentshould have a strong background in geography, the major cultural areas of the world and the historical developments that have shapedwestern civilization during the 19 th and 20 th centuries.1330 Gifted American GovernmentPrerequisite: Students must meet state-mandated guidelines for placement in the gifted programThe gifted American Government course is designed to cover four separate but related units that examine the philosophical, political, andhistorical underpinnings of American Government. Topics of study include but are not limited to: the institutions of American Government,political beliefs and political parties, interest groups, the influence of mass media on modern American Government, civil liberties and civicengagement. Students will be expected to read from a number of sources to apply content to current political issues within America. Thiscourse coincides with the eleventh grade gifted English program.1390 Advanced Placement American GovernmentPrerequisite: Minimum of a “B” in Honors American History or teacher recommendation.The AP American Government course is designed for both juniors and seniors. It will cover a wide range of topics from the philosophical,political and historical underpinnings of American Government to the structure of our federal system at every level. It also will include adiscussion of the major economic systems that exist in the world today. Students will be expected to read from a number of sources inaddition to a college-level textbook, while at the same time continuing to develop their essay writing skills. This is a demanding course thatrequires a substantial commitment of time and effort on the part of juniors and seniors preparing for college. Taking the AdvancedPlacement American Government exam is strongly encouraged for students selecting this course.SOCIAL STUDIES ELECTIVESElective courses may be taken in addition to the required social studies courses listed above. Elective courses provide students with anopportunity for in-depth study and experience in topics that are touched upon in the required courses.1490 Advanced Placement European HistoryPrerequisite: Grade 11 or 12. Minimum of a “B” in previous Honors Social Studies courses or teacher recommendationThe Advanced Placement European History course is designed for senior students who are seriously considering pursuing a history or socialsciences major in college, or for students extremely interested in learning about the historical evolution from the age of Louis XIV to the ColdWar. Students will be expected to read from a series of sources in addition to the college-level textbook, while at the same time continuing todevelop their essay-writing skills. This is a demanding course that requires a substantial commitment of time and effort on the part of seniorspreparing for college. Taking the Advanced Placement European History exam is strongly encouraged for students selecting this course.29

1630 PhilosophyPrerequisite: NoneTaking its direction from people such as Einstein, this course is designed to assist students in understanding the complexities of life. It is anexcellent preparation for college providing a solid foundation in the history of thought. The course tackles questions about existence, thenature of time, the pursuit of happiness, and ethical dilemmas. Students will stroll through The Agora with Socrates, explore Plato’s Cave, setsail for Utopia and walk the streets of Bensalem in search of guiding principles and enduring values. This course includes a look at logic,aesthetics, epistemology, and ethics. It is a course for those who like to think and write.1690 Advanced Placement PsychologyPrerequisite: Junior or Senior Status. Minimum of a “B” in previous Honors Social Studies courses or teacher recommendationThe Advanced Placement Psychology course is designed for juniors and seniors. The course will cover a wide range of topics from thetheoretical to practical applications of Psychology. It will introduce the systematic and scientific study of the behavior and mental processesof human beings and other animals. Included is a consideration of the major subfields within Psychology. Students also learn about theethics and methods psychologists use in their science and practice. Students will be expected to read from outside sources and a collegelevel textbook. This is a demanding course that requires a substantial commitment in time and effort. Taking the Advanced PlacementPsychology exam is strongly encouraged for students selecting this course.1600 Youth and the LawPrerequisite: Junior or Senior Status or teacher recommendation.This course is designed to give high school students an introduction to the American Legal System. Youth and the Law will provide studentswith an understanding of their legal rights and responsibilities, knowledge of everyday legal problems, and the ability to analyze, evaluate,and in some situations, resolve legal disputes. Youth and the Law will address general problems in the areas of criminal and juvenile justice;torts; and consumer, family, and individual rights.1610 Issues in Society TodayPrerequisite: NonePart of this course will focus on important contemporary social and political issues of today. The issues will directly reflect upon the pressingissues that affect the minds and consciences of today’s student. Emphasis will be placed upon the development of personal values and thetoleration of others. This course will also attempt to identify and define a variety of problems present in today’s society. Primary emphasiswill center on the following areas: American democracy, foreign policy, crime, oppression, basic economics and applied psychology. Otherareas such as social unrest, urban problems, gender discrimination, drug abuse and racial issues will also be discussed throughout thecourse of the semester. This course will also focus on the purpose of law in society. Special emphasis will be placed on the police, courtsand our correctional system. The subject matter will inform and reaffirm the rights and responsibilities of youth in our society. Specialemphasis will also be placed on juvenile delinquency and youth as a criminal.1620 SociologyPrerequisite: Minimum of a “C” in previous Juniors and Seniors Social Studies courses or teacher recommendation.This course is designed for juniors and seniors and examines how society and human behavior interact and how this interactionaffects human behavior in society. Specialized topics that will be studied and discussed include crime, the justice system, poverty,religion, prejudices, the media, education, the teen years, adulthood, culture dating, marriage and divorce.1640 Contemporary American StudiesPrerequisite: NoneThis course will trace the history of popular culture in the United States with an emphasis on popular trends throughout the 20 th century. Thecourse will focus on the importance of fashion, music, television, movies, sports and how they have influenced American culture.1650 PsychologyPrerequisite: Minimum of a “C” in previous Juniors and Seniors Social Studies courses or teacher recommendationThis course is designed for juniors and seniors and provides an examination of how the behavioral and mental processes of the mind affectour everyday lives. The basic theories explaining behavior are examined and the prominent people who have made contributions to theadvancement of psychology are presented. Basic principles of psychology such as conditioning, human development, psychobiology,testing, consciousness, cognition and psychological disorders are some of the topics covered in this course.1660 Cultural DiversityPrerequisite: Junior or Senior StatusThis course is designed for juniors and seniors and examines the various ethnic and cultural groups found in America that helped form the“melting pot” of American culture. Special emphasis will be placed on diversity in America during the 20 th century. The course will addressthe future of diversity in America.30

WELLNESS/FITNESSThe purpose of this program is to provide every student with knowledge to develop practices necessary to maintain physical, social andemotional health throughout their lifetime.Students are advised that, to a very large degree, they determine their grade in any wellness/fitness required or elective course. All studentsare required to dress and participate in all class activities. All students must take Wellness/Fitness 9 and one (or more) elective for a total of2 Wellness/Fitness credits. An additional key to success in the wellness curriculum (classroom instruction) is completing all assignments.Students who are absent from wellness/fitness classes have the opportunity to make up the missed time, thereby preserving their grade.Students are solely responsible for making arrangements with their assigned teacher to make-up the missed time before or after school.REQUIRED WELLNESS/FITNESS PROGRAM9800 Wellness/Fitness 9Prerequisite: Freshmen courseAll students must successfully complete course to graduate. During one half of the year, students will be introduced and engage inclassroom health activities that will promote a healthy lifestyle. During the other half of the year, students will be introduced to andengage in individual and team sport activities, which include conditioning and preparation for physical fitness testing and other assessments.ELECTIVES9810 Team Sports/Gym Games/Net Games/FitnessPrerequisite: NoneStudents will be taught and assessed on their knowledge of the rules, strategies, techniques and skills needed to participate inactivities such as: soccer, football, softball, frisbee, football, basketball, tennis and badminton.9820 Pilates/Advanced Fitness TechniquesPrerequisite: NoneStudents will learn various techniques of Pilates along with “core” strength training. Combining these two methods will lead toimproved strength, flexibility, posture and toning of muscles.9830 Conditioning and Weight Lifting – Gym 2 Weight RoomPrerequisite: NoneThe students will be introduced to the proper form and techniques for the use of weight equipment and will be guided through thedesign of their own personal fitness program. Aerobic activities, Universal machines, and some free weights are used.9840 Body Sculpting and Toning with Light Weights - Gym 2 Weight RoomPrerequisite: NoneStudents will be instructed in the correct methods of weight training using machines and dumbbells along with conditioning techniquesdesigned to improve athletic performance and physique. Students will be given the opportunity to perform various methods of weight trainingand designing their own workout program, which they will follow and adjust as needed. Emphasis will be placed on improving strength, bodyshaping, agility, and commitment toward personal goals. Students will learn the names of major muscle groups and the correspondingexercises and machines that work these muscle groups. Students will record their personal workouts on a daily basis.9850 Weight Training and Fitness – Gym 1 Weight RoomPrerequisite: NoneStudents learn the correct methods of weight training and conditioning techniques designed to improve athletic performance. Emphasis is onimproving strength, agility, quickness, power, speed and flexibility through the use of free weights and some mechanical weights. Thiscourse is open to all students and it may be scheduled more than once for credit.9802/9803 Adaptive/Modified Physical EducationPrerequisite: Teacher recommendation, medical referral, or administrative discretion31

This course is for students who are unable to participate in a regularly scheduled Wellness/Fitness class. Students who have physicallimitations may be scheduled into this program. The class is designed in cooperation with the student’s physician and the wellness/fitnessstaff.9890 Care and Prevention of Athletic InjuriesPrerequisite: must have passed W/F 9 and, minimally, co-enrolled in (3470) Anatomy and PhysiologyThis course is designed for students interested in fields such as athletic training, physical therapy, medicine, fitness, physiology of exercise,kinesiology, nutrition, and other sports medicine related fields. Topics include class work and practical hands-on application in the followingareas: prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation of sports injuries, taping and wrapping of injuries, first aid/CPR, emergency procedures,and sports medicine careers. In addition to work in the classroom, students will be required to intern after school with the Certified AthleticTrainer in the Athletic Training Room and at home sporting events.AQUATICS ELECTIVES9860 Basic Swimming - Restriction of 24 students per classPrerequisite: NoneThis course will benefit those students in need of the basics of Beginner’s Swimming. Students will gain confidence and experience througha logical progression of skill-based experiences. Students will undergo a thorough training of safety procedures and will engage in a varietyof water games and activities. Students will follow a certified Red Cross curriculum.9870 Water Sports & Fitness – Restriction of 24 students per classPrerequisite: Students must pass swimming test and approval by teacherIn this course the student will be instructed in various water activities including: water polo, water basketball and water volleyball. Studentswill also be instructed in snorkeling and other water games and relays. There will be a swimming skill unit which reviews the 10 swimmingstrokes. They will cover topics such as: CPR/AED, First Aid and Basic Water Safety.9880 Lifeguard Training -- Restriction of 24 students per classPrerequisite: Students must be able to meet the following requirements as demonstrated to the swimming teacher: be at least 15 years ofage; able to tread water for two minutes using legs only while their hands are out of water; able to swim 500 yards (21 laps) continuouslyusing a variety of strokes; and do a 20-yard swim into deep water and surface dive to 7 feet to retrieve a 10 pound brick. This course will givestudents American Red Cross certification (cards) in the following areas: lifeguarding, first aid, and CPR for the professional rescuer.Students, therefore, must pass all skill and written tests as well as the hours of instruction requirement. Other cards which can be earnedare: AED, Oxygen Administration, Prevention of Disease Transmission and the Waterfront Module. There is a minimal fee of $14.00 thatgoes to the Red Cross for its administration fee.WORLD LANGUAGESAs our country becomes more multicultural, the acquisition of communicative ability in a second language is beneficial for many students. Alllanguage courses are designed to provide the student with a functional knowledge in all basic skill areas – listening, speaking, reading andwriting with special emphasis on spoken communications. In addition to developing linguistic skills, aspects of everyday life in foreigncultures are also discussed. Students who have been successful in the study of a modern language may elect to study two languages withinthe same school year.All World Language classes:elements for success.Recognition that daily attendance and commitment to completing all assignments are the fundamentalAll language courses are designed for non-native speakers. Those students who already speak another language should enroll in a classNOT related to their own linguistic background.4110 Spanish 1Prerequisite: NoneSpanish 1 introduces students to basic Spanish conversation and to the cultures of Spanish-speaking countries. Students will have theopportunity to use Spanish for the purpose of self-expression.4120 Spanish 2Prerequisite: Spanish 1This course is designed for the student who is interested in developing communicative skills in Spanish and plans to continue studyingSpanish beyond Level 2. Emphasis will be placed on expanding listening and speaking skills and developing vocabulary within meaningfulcontexts.4130 Spanish 3Prerequisite: Spanish 232

Spanish 3 offers the opportunity to expand and refine conversation and grammar skills through a variety of interactive experiences.Contemporary readings will enhance the student’s appreciation of Spanish-speaking cultures.4140 Spanish 4Prerequisite: Spanish 3This course enables students to study the language in greater detail, to expand their knowledge of Spanish speaking countries, to read forcomprehension from a variety of authentic sources, and to use the spoken language more often than has been done in Spanish I, II, and III.This course provides the student with a truly delightful experience that makes the Hispanic language and cultures come alive.4150 Spanish 5Prerequisite: Spanish 4This course will prepare the student with greater depth in all language skills: listening, speaking reading and writing. It continues toemphasize oral and written skills developed through a survey of Spanish literature and contemporary life. Journal writing, group projects, andcultural activities will expand linguistic skills and promote cultural awareness.4210 French 1Prerequisite: NoneFrench 1 stresses the development of basic vocabulary and sentence structure. Various classroom activities will enable students to expressthemselves and communicate with others in French. The course will also direct attention to cultural aspects of French-speaking countries.4220 French 2Prerequisite: French 1French 2 emphasizes grammar, vocabulary and reading skills within the framework of communicative activities. Students will be exposed toculture through short reading experiences and enhanced technology.4230 French 3Prerequisite: French 2This course emphasizes a conversational approach to the study of French grammar, literature and culture. The use of readings that dealwith contemporary issues will lead to classroom discussion and composition.4240 French 4Prerequisite: French 3This course enables students to study the language in greater detail, to expand their knowledge of French speaking countries and territories,to read for comprehension from a variety of realia, and to use the spoken language more often than has been done in French I, II, and III.This course provides the student with a truly captivating experience that makes the French language come alive.4250 French 5Prerequisite: French 4This course will prepare the student with greater depth in all language skills: listening, speaking reading and writing. It continues toemphasize oral and written skills developed through a survey of French literature and contemporary life. Journal writing, group projects, andcultural activities will expand linguistic skills and promote cultural awareness.4310 Japanese 1Prerequisite: NoneJapanese 1 emphasizes the development of basic vocabulary and sentence structure. Classroom activities will encourage students tocommunicate with others in Japanese. Additional attention will be given to learning the first Japanese system of writing (hiragana). Topicsinclude family, daily home and school life.4320 Japanese 2Prerequisite: Minimum of a “C” in Japanese 1This course adds the second alphabet (katakana) as well as 30 additional Chinese characters. We continue to practice conversationalJapanese through reading, writing, listening, and speaking activities. Topics include making decisions, festivals, after-school activities,sports, movies, dining out and shopping.4340 Japanese Speaking A (Offered alternative years) (NOT OFFERED IN 2013-2014)Prerequisite: Minimum of a “C” in Japanese 233

This course continues to practice conversational Japanese through reading, writing, listening, and speaking activities. Apart from variousaspects of Japanese culture, there will be an emphasis on grammar and verbs forms.4342 Japanese Writing B (Offered alternative years)Prerequisite: Minimum of a “C” in Japanese 2This course’s main focus is on Chinese characters and their role in the Japanese writing system. Students will be reading shorts stories tofurther expand their vocabulary. Proper technique and usage will be practiced through daily writing exercises.4410 Hindi 1Prerequisite: Junior and Senior StatusThis is a basic language course aimed at helping students learn conversational Hindi using authentic written and visual materials. Thestudents will learn to speak and write simple sentences for expressing themselves in Hindi. They will be able to understand and infermeanings of information provided during classroom sessions and will be consistently engaged in interpretive, interpersonal, andpresentational modes of communication. This course is offered as an elective for students who have completed two years of anotherlanguage at the high school level and is interested in learning the common language of India.4510 Latin 1Prerequisite: NoneThis course is designed to develop the student's understanding of language structure and ancient Rome's influence on the modern world. Anemphasis on derivatives will help to expand the student's English vocabulary. Group and paired activities will encourage the student to thinkcritically while promoting the active use of Latin. This course is offered as an elective for students who have already completed two years ofanother language at the high school level.4520 Latin 2 (Not offered in 2013-2014)Prerequisite: Latin 1Latin 2 is a continuation of the concepts introduced in Latin 1. Emphasis will be given to the study of Greek and Latin roots which will give the studentsadditional support in preparing for the verbal sections of the SAT. Students will expand communicative skills by learning new verb forms and idiomaticexpressions. The study of the Roman culture will provide insight into its influence on modern American life. The pre requisite is a passing grade in Latin 1.CO-OPERATIVE EDUCATION5940 Co-Op Education Released for 2 or more periodsPrerequisite: Senior Status/Credits must be up to date, Graduation Project FulfilledStudents may be excused from school to earn elective credit(s) through on-the-job career preparation at training sites in government,business or industry. The Co-Op Education Coordinator must approve the work sites and applicants for the program; the coordinator mayalso help students find appropriate jobs.The work site will be monitored by the Co-Op Education Coordinator who, in cooperation with the employer, will assign a final grade for eachmarking period. Students enrolled in this program must be present in school each day they are also scheduled to work. The Co-OpEducation Coordinator’s office will notify employers of students’ absences on a daily basis. Going to work on days not present in school iscause for removal from the program. If interested in this program, students must meet with the Co-Op program coordinator during thesummer and provide proof of successful employment at that time.5493 Related TrainingPrerequisite: Senior Status/Credits must be up to date, Graduation Project FulfilledThis classroom requirement for students in the Co-Op program develops the competencies necessary to succeed as employees in the worldof work. Topics covered are career development and planning, employment acquisition and retention, health and safety, communicationsdevelopment, legal awareness, consumer skills and economics, and especially human relations, or how to get along with other people on thejob.34

SPECIAL EDUCATION PROGRAMSA full continuum of services is available for students in need of special education supports and specially designed instruction in order forstudents to receive a free and appropriate public education. Students that participate in these programs have undergone a thoroughMultidisciplinary Evaluation and have received a diagnosis by a Certified School Psychologist. Program and course selection isindividualized based on the needs of the student and discussed at the IEP meeting. Each student, regardless of program or amount ofinterventions required, receives a case manager that monitors the IEP and reports back to the IEP team. Focus is also placed on assistingstudents in making a smooth transition from high school to post secondary education or employment. Parental involvement is alwaysencouraged and they are a vital member of the IEP team and the ultimate success of the student.Levels of Support for Students with Individualized Education Plans (IEP)In accordance with state and federal mandates, a continuum of services is available for students with various special needs including, butnot limited to learning disabilities, social/emotional disabilities, autism, and severe cognitive challenges. In addition, we provide services forstudents with speech/language, hearing, vision, physical, and occupational therapy needs. Transition to adult life is provided for eachstudent as described in each student’s individual plan. Least restrictive environment mandates general education be considered as the firstoption for service provision. Services in the general education can span from minor curriculum modification to support from instructionalassistants. Special education teachers can also serve as co-teachers in the general education classroom. Special education classes areprovided when services delivered in the general education classroom are not considered sufficient to meet a student’s educational needs asdetermined by the IEP team.Career Preparation Acquisition and Advancement (Pre-requisite: IEP Team recommendation)Goals include preparation for post-secondary education such as college or technical education. Students will functionally apply previouslylearned academic skills such as reading, writing, math, speaking, and listening. Skill development will include social skills necessary foreffective interaction in the work place, development of skills and knowledge to understand how personal behaviors contribute toemployability including, but not limited to, time management, task completion, work place attitudes, values, and motivation (internal andexternal). In addition, students will learn to identify areas of self-need, identify problems, develop potential solutions, analyze solutions, andmonitor the effectiveness of a chosen solution. Students will also learn to follow work-related health and safety procedures. Expected levelof work performance and range from minimal to exceptional product will be reviewed. Students will develop an understanding of work placepay as related to personal budget. Understanding of work place culture and power structures will be provided with the goal of studentslearning to work and interact effectively within a work organization.BUCKS COUNTY TECHNICAL HIGH SCHOOLBucks County Technical High School (BCTHS) is a comprehensive technical high school offering both academic and technical programmingfor students grades 9 through 12. BCTHS is known as the best of both worlds, as it prepares students for both the world of work and theworld of post-secondary education (approximately 70% of BCTHS graduates go on to college).BCTHS is comprised of five academies: Technology (including the Applied Engineering Technology Cluster), Construction, Creative Arts,Services (including the Culinary Arts Cluster) and Transportation. Within these academies, a total of 28 separate technical programs areavailable. Additionally, BCTHS offers AP, honors, college prep and foundational level academic programming, and has a strong specialeducation program.BCTHS is an application based high school which is open to students from six sending school districts, including the Bensalem SchoolDistrict. BCTHS representatives make presentations to Bensalem School District middle school students in October and interested studentscan join their classmates for a school wide tour of BCTHS in November. Additionally, BCTHS holds an evening Open House in earlyNovember.For more information regarding the programs within each technical academy, academic programming, extracurricular activities and theapplication process, visit the Bucks County Technical High School website at www.bcths.com. Students and parents may also contact theirmiddle school counselor, or speak directly to a Bucks County Technical High School representative at (215) 949-1700 ext. 2978.35

BENSALEM HIGH SCHOOLPERSONAL PLAN FOR SUCCESS Student Name_____________________________Counselor________________________________Grade________Number of Credits________Subject Areas:Credits Neededfor GraduationCourses36

English (4) ____English 9 ____English 10 ____English 11 ____English 12 Math (3) ____Algebra 1 ____ Algebra 2 ____ Geometry Science____Energy & ____Biology ____Chemistry ____Physics Environment Soc. Studies (3) ____World ____Am. History ____Am. Govt. HistoryPhysical Education (2) ____Wellness Fitness ______________ Arts/Humanities (2) ________________ _______________ (Includes Foreign Language, English or Social Studies Electives, ROTCFamily and Consumer Science, Music, Industrial Arts, Art classes)Information Technology (1) _______________ Graduation Project (P) _______________ Electives (10) ______________ _______________ ______________ ________________ ______________ ______________ _______________ ______________ ________________ ______________ • Will this course allow me to meet graduation requirements? • Will this course help me to meet college entrance requirements? • Will this course help me develop a skill to become employable after high school? • Will this course introduce me to a new subject or experience? • Is this course appropriate for my ability? Will it be a challenge? • Do I have the prerequisite for this course? 37

BENSALEM HIGH SCHOOL 9 TH GRADE COURSE SELECTION SHEET 2013-2014Student Name: PRINT_______________________ Telephone Number:_______________ Student Email:___________________Student ID No.: _________________________ Counselor Name: ________________ Parent Email:____________________COURSENUMBERSTUDENTSELECTION9 TH GRADECOURSES0100 English CP English 90120 Pick 1 Hon. English 90130 G/T English 91100 Social Studies CP World History1120 Pick 1 Hon. World History1130 G/T World History3010 Science 9 th Gr Foundations of Physics3020 Pick 1 CP Energy & YourEnvironment3120 Honors Biology2130 Pick 1 Found of Algebra 12120 CP Algebra 12227-2327 Honors Geo/Alg. 22210 CP Geometry2220 Honors Geometry5100 Required Computer Applications9800 Required Wellness Fitness7160 JROTC 9 th grade JROTC4110 World Language Spanish 14120 Spanish 24160 Native Heritage Spanish4210 French 14220 French 24130 Japanese 17520 Music Education 9 th Grade Choir7430 9 th Grade Band7620 9 th Grade OrchestraCRTEACHER RECOMMENDATIONSTUDENTREQUESTChoice only 1-3 Electives (Enter 3):0620 Speech and Debate0670 Public Speaking0680 Intro to Acting1610 9 th grade Issues in Society6110 Elective Family & Con Science6260 Options Engineering 101 (STEM)6500 Introduction to photography7200 Introduction to Art Concepts7240 Elective choices Crafts and Pottery7260 Are not Painting and Drawing7280 Guaranteed Arts & Culture8 Total credits__________________________________________________________________________STUDENT SIGNATURE DATE PARENT SIGNATURE DATEIEP CASE MANAGER SIGNATURE ______________________________________All changes to student course selections must be made by March 15, 2013. After the start of school, the only student requests forchanges that will be approved are those based on schedule errors and/or the completion of credit recovery in the summer.BEGINNING WITH THE CLASS OF 2017, students will be scheduled into mandatory electives based on Keystone test performanceand assessment data in English, Math and/or Science38

BENSALEM HIGH SCHOOL 10 TH GRADE COURSE SELECTION SHEET 2013-2014Student Name: PRINT_______________________ Telephone Number:_______________ Student Email:___________________Student ID No.: _________________________ Counselor Name: ________________ Parent Email:____________________COURSENUMBERSUBJECT10 TH GRADECOURSES0200 English CP English 100220 Hon. English 100230 G/T English 10CREDITTEACHERRECOMMENDATIONSTUDENTREQUEST1200 Social Studies CP American History1220 Hon. American History1230 G/T American History1290 AP American History3100 Science CP Biology3120 Hon. Biology3200 CP Chemistry3220 Hon. ChemistryMathCore Math ChoiceWellness ElectElectives (5)1 st Choice2 nd Choice3 rd Choice4 th Choice5 th Choice8 TOTAL CREDITSSophomores in 2011-2012 have three years to fulfill the fitness/health requirements (2 credits)____________________________________________________________________________STUDENT SIGNATURE DATE PARENT SIGNATURE DATEIEP CASE MANAGER SIGNATURE ______________________________________All changes to student course selections must be made by March 15, 2013. After the start of school, theonly student requests for changes that will be approved are those based on schedule errors and/or thecompletion of credit recovery in the summer.BEGINNING WITH THE CLASS OF 2017, students will be scheduled into mandatory electivesbased on Keystone test performance and assessment data in English, Math and/or Science.39

BENSALEM HIGH SCHOOL11 TH GRADE COURSE SELECTION SHEET 2013-2014Student Name: PRINT_______________________ Telephone Number:_______________ Student Email:___________________Student ID No.: _________________________ Counselor Name: ________________ Parent Email:____________________COURSENUMBERSUBJECT11 TH GRADECOURSESCRTEACHERRECOMMENDATIONSTUDENTREQUEST0300 English CP English 110320 Hon. English 110330 G/T English 110390 AP English1100 Social Studies CP American Gov.1120 Hon. American Gov.1130 G/T American Gov.1390 AP American Gov.3200 Science CP Chemistry3220 Hon. Chemistry3290 AP Chemistry3100 CP Biology3120 Hon. Biology3190 AP Biology3300 CP Physics3220 Hon. Physics3390 AP PhysicsCore MathChoiceWellness ElectElectives (5)8 TOTAL CREDITS____________________________________________________________________________STUDENT SIGNATURE DATE PARENT SIGNATURE DATEIEP CASE MANAGER SIGNATURE (If required) ______________________________________All changes to student course selections must be made by March 15, 2013. After the start of school, theonly student requests for changes that will be approved are those based on schedule errors and/or thecompletion of course work in the summer.BEGINNING WITH THE CLASS OF 2017, students will be scheduled into mandatory electivesbased on Keystone test performance and assessment data in English, Math and/or Science40

BENSALEM HIGH SCHOOL12 TH GRADE COURSE SELECTION SHEET 2013-2014Student Name: PRINT_______________________ Telephone Number:_______________ Student Email:___________________Student ID No.: _________________________ Counselor Name: ________________ Parent Email:____________________COURSENUMBERSUBJECT 12 TH GRADECOURSES0400 English CP English 120420 Hon. English 120430 G/T English 120490 AP English2690 AP Calculus AB2790 AP Calculus BCCREDITTEACHERRECOMMENDATIONSTUDENTREQUESTCourses Needed forGraduation:Electives:1 st Choice2 nd Choice3 rd Choice4 th Choice5 th Choice6 th Choice7 th Choice8 th Choice8 Total Credits____________________________________________________________________________STUDENT SIGNATURE DATE PARENT SIGNATURE DATEIEP CASE MANAGER SIGNATURE ______________________________________All changes to student course selections must be made by March 15, 2013. After the start of school, theonly student requests for changes that will be approved are those based on schedule errors and/or thecompletion of credit recovery in the summer.BEGINNING WITH THE CLASS OF 2017, students will be scheduled into mandatory electivesbased on Keystone test performance and assessment data in English, Math and/or Science41