STEP

What is STEP?

The statewide mission of the Science & Technology Entry Program (STEP) is to increase the number of historically underrepresented and disadvantaged students prepared to enter college and improve their participation rate in mathematics, science, technology, health-related fields, and the licensed professions. STEP is funded in partnership by the New York State Education Department and Monroe Community College.

STEP is dedicated to the enrichment and support of students in the program, as well as advocacy on their behalf.

STEP provides tutoring and instruction to strengthen academic skills and enhance student performance in school courses and on standardized tests like the SAT.

STEP fosters interest in science, math, technology, and health-related disciplines in addition to building student awareness of the higher education opportunities and careers related to these fields.

STEP gives students added academic support, counseling, mentoring, and inspiration to help them make their college, career, and life goals a reality.

STEP is about nurturing potential and creating pathways to success.

STEP Service

STEP offers tons of fun opportunities and academic, career, and college support services.

Field Trips - Educational, Cultural, and College Visits
Science Bowl, Science Fairs, and the Annual STEP Conference in Albany
Leadership Opportunities
Saturday College
Tutoring
Academic Advisement
Mentoring
Career Exploration, Job Shadows, and Job Site Visits
College Preparation Seminars and Application Assistance
Skill-Building Workshops
Independent Research Opportunities
Summer Program
Annual STEP Awards Banquet
STEP Parent Council

THE DUAL CREDIT PROGRAM

Regents Exam Schedule

Regents Exam Schedule

New York State Learning Standards

Course Handbook                                           

This booklet offers a current description of courses taught in grades 7-11.  Each class is 45 minutes long and is either a half-year or a full-year in duration. A Student Planner is provided to each student at the beginning of the school year. It is highly recommended that this planner be used for students to chart homework assignments as well as daily activities. 

ENGLISH

The guiding philosophy of the English Department at RACS is that students should be able to read and write on grade level, be exposed to a variety of reading and writing experiences and be able to demonstrate mastery of skills on the Grade 8 ELA exam and Grade 11 English Regents exam.

Eng 7 (Grade 7)

 In seventh grade English, students will be introduced and study the elements of literature throughout the year using poetry, short stories, drama and novels. Emphasis will be on student writing at this level, and will focus on the writing process with emphasis on paragraph organization and development, vocabulary, grammar, spelling and punctuation. Students will begin to become familiar with all sections of the 8th grade ELA assessment and practice completing parallel assessments.

Eng 8 (Grade 8)

In eighth grade English, students will build on their composition skills begun in 7th grade English in preparation for the 8th grade ELA exam.  They will now engage in more advanced synthesis of class readings. Students will continue building on their analytical skills developed in 7th grade English. Study pure grammar and grammar usage as well as expanding their vocabulary and elements of composition.

Eng 100 (Grade 9)

The focus of 9th grade English is primarily literature-based. Students will read novels from a variety of genres, including autobiography, fiction, non-fiction and science fiction. Drama and Shakespeare will also be studied. Writing activities will generally be responses to literature, but a variety of techniques and modes will be employed. Emphasis in writing will be placed on personal narratives and various types of expository essays. Completion of a small group research project will also be a part of the curriculum.

Eng 101 Language and Composition (Elective)

Language and Composition examines prose (e.g.: biographies and autobiographies, fiction, essays, journalism, social and political writing, science and nature writing) across a wide range of periods and rhetorical contexts.  Students become skilled at writing for a variety of purposes, audiences, and rhetorical contexts.  This course places emphasis on “writing-skills” development.  Students will be ‘critiqued and advised” in the proper application of writing skills as follows: sentence structure paragraph structure, sentence sequence, and mechanics (punctuation, capitalization, and spelling) Vocabulary for the college bound student, in preparation for PSAT/SAT exams in the junior year. And continued study of grammar will be continued.Communications is a full year elective course designed to introduce students to interpersonal, small group, and public communications.

English 102 Communications (Elective)

Communications is a full year elective course designed to introduce students to interpersonal, small group, and public communications. This course focuses on four main Communications methods: Mass Media, Advertising, Public Speaking, and Film Studies. Students will be expected to create advertisements, analyze media outlets, present various speeches, and examine various film genres. While most of the work in this course focuses on speaking, students will also be graded on writing assingments as well.

English 103 Journalism

Journalism is a course designed to introduce students to the field of journalism and to produce a school newspaper. Specifically, in this course students will learn and polish news-writing techniques; examine the purposes, successes and failures of the mass media; examine layout, photography and production techniques and learn the history, laws and ethical issues related to journalism. Along with learning journalistic practices, students will learn to use computers for word-processing and page layout and to produce a school newspaper. Success in this course depends on a student’s willingness to assume responsibility for independent effort and ability to meet deadlines.

English 104 Writing Competency

Writing Competency is a writing-intensive course designed to expose students to many different writing styles and improve their writing skills. On average, one writing assignment will be completed each week, including drafting, peer editing, revising and final copies. Each student will create his or her own writing portfolio containing examples of different types of writing and reflections on their work. Students will study the crafts of fiction, nonfiction and poetry writing in four categories: narrative, creative, expositive and persuasive writing. Focus correction areas are thesis, support, paragraphing, sentence structure, and word choice. Peer editing, spot conferencing, and revision are also important aspects of this course. Success in the course depends of the student's willingness to assume responsibility for independent effort.

Eng 200(Grade 10)

The focus of 10th grade English is primarily literature-based. Students will read novels from a variety of genres, including autobiography, fiction, non-fiction and science fiction. Drama and Shakespeare will also be studied. Writing activities will generally be responses to literature, but a variety of techniques and modes will be employed. Writing will be again emphasized in grade 10, including personal narratives, various types of expository essays and persuasive essays. The study of research techniques and the completion of an individual research project will also be required.

Eng 201 Professional Reading and Writing (Grade 10-11, Elective)

The new SAT is a longer exam, the math is harder, and an essay section has been added to the exam.  In this course, pointed focus for preparation for the SAT exam is emphasized.  Students will practice writing brief, and effective expository paragraphs, “test writing” skills, and build vocabulary skills. 

Eng 300 (Grade 11)

This course continues where 10th grade left off expanding student understanding of all literary genres.  Students develop their skills writing literary response prose, critical analysis and evaluation of literature in preparation of the Grade 11 ELA Regents. A chronological survey of American Literature include reading, writing, listening and speaking skills parallels 11th grade US History.

Eng 400 (Grade 12)

Twelfth grade English explores British Literature and also requires writing compositions of a general nature which analyze compare and contrast values philosophies and themes in various literary genre.  English 12 students will prepare an extensive portfolio of writing tasks illustrating their acquired learning.

Eng 401 (AP English, Literature and Composition)

AP English is comparable to the first semester of College English, and further develops a student’s writing ability. Students study denotation, connotation, imagery, figurative language and tone and will be expected to facilitate the interpretation and evaluation of prose and poetry.  

SCIENCE

Sci 7 Life Science (Grade 7)

Seventh grade students learn how science works. Students  will value and use science as a process of obtaining and using observable evidence, and will develop an understanding of structure as common to all facets of life.  Therefore, students should have a personal  understanding of the relevance of science in their lives.Life Science examines the structure and function of cells and organisms and compares levels of organization structures and functions within living things.  Reproduction and heredity will be a focus.  Students will learn classification of organisms.  Chemical and physical changes and reactions involving atmospheric oxygen will be another area of study and students will research technological innovations elated to chemical and physical process.

Sci 8 Physical Science (Grade 8)

Eighth grade science focuses on “change”.  This course is a Junior High, introductory course that integrates earth and physical science with two primary goals:Students will learn to value and use science as a process of obtaining knowledge based on observable evidence and will develop and understanding of change as an organizing science concept common in life. Specifically, students will investigate the earths crust and climate will be investigated.  Students will determine the factors and events involved in the planet’s changing surface and analyze evidence of geological changes from climatic and rock changes and fossil formation. Also, Students will evaluate the nature of matter, and will analyze particles of matter and the role of motion.  Forces and energy related to motion are a focus in this course and forms and sources of energy will be identified.  Students will analyze energy movement by building and diagramming hands-on experiments in the science lab.  Students will participate in science fair competition for this course.

Sci 100 Living Environment, Biology (Grade 9-10)

Students taking the Living Environment course will explore the process of science by learning to use the scientific method, which will aid them in performing lab activities. This requires students to satisfactorily complete the lab activities and write ups. Topics covered include; controlled experiments, cells, evolution, genetics, human body systems, ecology, and biochemistry.  The course ends in a Regents exam in June, and a student must have accumulated 1200 minutes in documented lab time to sit for the regent’s exam.

Sci 200 The Physical Setting, Earth Science (Grade 9-10)

Earth Science is a detailed look at our planet and the processes that have shaped it.  During the one-year course, students will be exposed to important concepts in astronomy, meteorology, geology and physical oceanography.  The Regents earth science course at taught at Rochester Academy of Science is New York State's new 'core curriculum', "Earth Science - The Physical Setting". This version of the course places less emphasis on memorization and quantification than the previous Regents earth science courses. Rather, the emphasis is more on a qualitative understanding and application of scientific principles to earth processes. Classes meet every day, with a lab period once each week. The course ends in a Regents exam in June, and a student must have accumulated 1200 minutes in documented lab time to sit for the regent’s exam.

Sci 300 Chemistry (Grade 11)

Students in Chemistry will do in-depth study of atomic structure and theory, chemical formulas and equations, thermo chemical equations, behavior of gases, periodic table, electronic structure of atoms, ionic and covalent bonding, solution chemistry, organic chemistry, rate of reaction, chemical equilibrium, acids and gases, precipitation reactions, oxidation-reduction reactions and electrochemistry.  Students should possess a high degree of self-motivation and the ability to work independently.  The course ends in a Regents exam in June, and a student must have accumulated 1200 minutes in documented lab time to sit for the regent’s exam.

Sci 301 General Chemistry (Grades 10, 11)

This course is designed for the student who desires a basic knowledge of chemistry, related laboratory technique, and a greater awareness of the chemical environment for his/her own improvement or for some form of higher education.  Topics include matter and energy, atomic properties of acids and bases, organic compounds, and nuclear chemistry.  Laboratory work is an integral part of this course and written laboratory reports are required.

Sci 302 Forensic Science

Forensic science is the application of basic biological, chemical and physical science principles and technological practices to the purposes of justice in the study of criminal and civil issues.  Major themes of study in this course are pathology, anthropology, odontology, ballistics, trace evidence, biological fluids, DNA, fingerprints, impression evidence, questioned documents and forensic psychiatry/psychology.

Sci 400 Physics (Grade 12)

In Honor Physics, students will be introduced to the ideas of physics. This course focuses on the methods that physicists use in building models to describe the workings of the universe. The relationships among observation, measurement, and description will be explored in depth through experimental work in a variety of topics, including mechanics, electric circuits, optics and thermodynamics, among others. Emphasis will be on experimental design and data analysis, with a focus on techniques for fitting mathematical models to measured data and assessing the validity of those models. The students will keep a logbook of their work and their results, and write papers to communicate those results to the rest of the class. Most of the time spent in class will be dedicated to lab work, with occasional class “conferences” for student presentations. Because of the nature of the work, this course requires strong math skills and an inclination towards independent exploration.

Sci 401 Environmental Science (Grade 12 Elective)

Environmental Science carefully analyzes the various interactions that are taking place between modern humans and their environment. Special emphasis is placed on our need for and use of energy and mineral resources. The course develops the concept of the ecosystem and the basic laws that govern energy/resources use. It examines our traditional energy sources and consumption patterns and then analyzes our current supply-demand situation. Finally, our alternatives for the future are carefully considered.  In addition, the environmental and socioeconomic impacts of large-scale energy development and mineral use are examined. The role played by government, industry, international policies, and the individual in the energy/resource/ environmental system are all considered. Emphasis is placed on direct student involvement in specially designed and classroom tested lab-type activities. The textbook clarifies and expands on those activities. In addition, it provides questions, problems, and reference materials to help the student master the course content.

Sci 501 AP Biology

AP biology at Rochester Academy of Science conforms to all Standards prescribed by the AP College Board for AP courses and covers all of the themes in the AP Biology Course Description.  Major topics covered include; biochemistry, cell structure and function, cellular metabolism, heredity, molecular genetics, evolutionary biology, microbiology, plant physiology, animal physiology and ecology. Science is an ongoing process and as such, this course will be conducted in such a way that will emphasize the scientific discovery process behind each theme. It is the belief of biologists that evolution is the founding principle on which modern biology is built. Therefore, every topic taught in this course will be integrated with the underlying evolutionary theory.

SOCIAL STUDIES

SS 7 (Grade 7)

Seventh Grade Social Studies covers the history of the United States from its earliest beginnings through 1877.  Topics covered are: Discovery and exploration, colonization, conflict and revolution, the new government, early American lifestyles, conflict with Britain, expansion westward, slavery, division and reunion. The 8th grade curriculum finishes the course of study to present day.

SS 8 (Grade 8)

The 8th grade course is the second part of a two-part course begun in the 7th grade.  The curriculum is rigorous and fast moving; therefore it is imperative that students keep up with instruction and assignments.  Course material starts with  reviewing the land bridge to North America and early civilizations and culminates with current U.S. events.  In addition, the course serves to create an awareness of individual rights and responsibilities in American democracy.  There is an 8th grade assessment given at the end of the academic year.

SS 100 Global History and Geography I (Grade 9)

Social Studies 101 is the first year of a two-year sequence in Global History focusing on a thematic study of the world outside North America.  Grade 9 students review the importance of geographic influences on societal development and explore the various belief, political, and economic systems that have served as foundations of civilizations across time throughout the world.  Ninth graders study history and geography from the beginning of recorded time to the European Renaissance.

SS 200 Global History and Geography II (Grade 10)

In tenth grade, themes will expand upon the basic foundations of societal development introduced in grade 9.  Students will explore the importance of science and technology on world cultural development, the means by which conflicts within and among societies are resolved, the role of law, justice, and human rights in societies and the increasing global connections that have come from societal interdependence.  At the end of the two-year sequence, students should recognize the similarities and differences among the practices, beliefs and choices of human societies around the world throughout the ages. All students are required to take and pass the NYS Regents in Global Studies and Geography to graduate.

SS 300 US History (Grade 11)

Eleventh grade students examine an indepth study of United States History.  Topics include US Constitutional Foundations and the study of the United States as an industrial nation.  Constitutional and legal issues are examined through WWI, WWII and the Cold War as well as topics pertaining to international issues.  NYS Regents exam required for graduation.

SS 301 AP Advanced Placement United States History and Government (Grade 11-12)

This course is designed for those students who wish to take the AP exam, while earning Regents credit for 11th grade social studies.  This course will give students grounding in US history and in the critical analysis of major selected themes.  After taking the AP exam in May, students will complete a final unit on the US Constitution and will prepare for the June Regents exam.

SS 302 Criminal Justice

In this course students will explore the many facets of the criminal justice system. Some of these topics include history of the criminal justice system, the roles and functions of the police, the court system, prison system and the many different ways crimes can be classified. By the end of this course students will have a basic understanding of the criminal justice system.

SS 303 Current Events

In this course students will learn and discuss issues that currently face the world. Topics include but are not limited to population growth, terrorism, and global warming, politics and local and regional concerns. By the end of this course student will be more aware of events surrounding the world.

SS 400 Participation in Government (Grade 12)

Participation in Government is a required, half-year course, which discusses the ways in which government in this country is organized, the variety of activities performed by government, and the role of the citizen in affecting government. Students will learn the basics of participating in a government that depends on the active involvement of its citizens. Current issues and the formation of public policy are important components of the course.

SS 401 Economics (Grade 12)

Economics is a required half-year course taken during the students’ senior year. This course is a general overview of the American economic system. It will cover micro and macro aspects of economics in a consumer friendly manner.

SS 501 College Economics (Dual Credit) (Grade 12)

This  is a half-year 12th grade course and  deals with the elements of Microeconomics. Microeconomics will give students a thorough understanding of the principles of economics that apply to the functions of individual decision-makers, both consumers and producers, within the larger economic system. Students taking this course are required to take the Advanced Placement exam given in May. Students also have an option to challenge the Macroeconomics exam for no additional cost. This course also fills the requirement for grade 12 general economics.

MATHEMATICS

Math 7 (Grade 7)

The intent of Seventh grade math is that students will master math as it applies to real world skills. Their understanding of fractions, decimals, and real numbers is deepened and strengthened. Students solve problems using ratios, rates and proportions.  Students build on their knowledge of geometric concepts, and study patterns and sequences using tables, graphs, and formulas. They find the probability of both simple and complex events, and learn about sampling, surveys, and how to use data to make predictions.

Math 8  (Grade 8)

Eighth grade math carries the student deeper into the world of math first encountered in seventh grade.  Students master integers and algebraic expressions, exponents and powers, geometry and measurement, and probability. Students  review pre-algebra concepts, solving a full range of first degree and literal equations, perform operations with polynomials, factoring polynomials, work with inequalities, study analytic geometry, as well as simultaneous equations, functions, rational expressions, and quadratic equations.

Math 100 Integrated Algebra (Grade 9)

This is the first course in a two-year track leading to the New York State Math A Regents Examination.  A primary focus of the 9th grade math course is algebra.  Additional topics covered include exponents, ratio, proportion, percent, scientific notation, polynomials, factoring binomials and trinomials, radicals, linear systems, transformation geometry, symmetry, combinations, permutations, the coordinate plane, Pythagorean theorem, right triangle trigonometry, algebraic fractions, probability, and statistics.  A cumulative review strategy is emphasized to foster mastery of the material.

Math 200 Geometry (Grade 10)

This 10th grade math course is the second in a two-year track leading to the New York State Math A Regents Examination.  A primary focus of the course is geometry including angles, circles, polygons, quadrilaterals, and solids.  Additional topics covered include quadratic applications, advanced algebraic fractions; coordinate geometry (midpoint, slope, distance formulas), mathematical systems, locus, and constructions.  A cumulative review strategy of all Math 9 topics is strongly emphasized throughout the year to foster mastery of the material.

Math 201 Problem Solving Strategies I (Grade 10-11, Elective)

This course is designed to prepare students for the Math section of the new 2005 SAT exam to increase the chance of a student’s acceptance into major colleges and Universities by increasing their test scores.  Standards of such tests and test taking skills will be covered as well as major topics in these tests.

Math 300 Algebra 2 (Grade 11)

This course includes much of the algebraic content of the Pre-Calculus course.  The topics are covered in a manner that is more concrete and more computational than the approach of the Pre Calculus course.

Math 301 Calculus (Dual Credits) (Grade 11-12)

The course is designed for a strong student who may be considering a career in mathematics or science.  Students in this course must have mastery of the concepts and skills presented in all the previous regents level mathematics courses.  Topics Covered include mathematical induction, sequences and series, vector algebra, analytic geometry, polynomial function, complex numbers, limits and derivatives, and exponential and logarithmic functions.  This course is a prerequisite for AP Calculus.

College Statistics (Dual Credits)  302

In this course, students will be introduced to the major concepts of probability, interpretation of data, and statistical problem solving. Students will learn the course concepts through hands-on experimentation and investigation. They will analyze existing data as well as data collected through a survey, observational study or experiment. They will then display the data in different ways, analyze it, and draw conclusions based on the results. The four main components of the course are: exploring data, data collection, probability, and inference.

ART

Art 7 and Art 8 Studio in Art 1 and Art 2 (Grade 7-8)

Emphasis is placed on developing drawing skills while integrating the elements and principles of design.  A variety of media are introduced in the learning of two and three-dimensional design.  Students are required to draw in a sketchbook on a regular basis and maintain a portfolio.  A midterm and final exam are given.

Art 100 Drawing and Painting 1 (Grade 9)

Drawing and Painting provides students with art knowledge and skills that they can use during their lifetime for personal enjoyment or professional art career.  This class is for the student who wants to develop their ability to draw and paint from observation, improve techniques and become more familiar with various media.  Graphite, marker pen, charcoal, colored pencil, mixed media, pastel, contre crayon, watercolor and acrylic are just a few of the materials used in Drawing and Painting I.  Students will become more familiar with color theory, color mixing gradation as well as various painting techniques. Students will continue to explore the elements and principles of art, develop compositional skills, and expand on their knowledge of art history.  Portfolio preparation is offered to the college bound student.

Art 200 Drawing and Painting 2 (Grade 10-12)

A strengthening and broadening of the skills utilized in Drawing and Painting 1, and a continued preparation and development of a students art portfolio for college.

MUSIC

Music 7 and Music 8 (Grade 7-8)

This course is designed to help 7th and 8th grade students develop listening skills and a vocabulary with which music can be discussed. Students will listen to a variety of music; however, our focus will be on music history including, but not limited to, Middle Ages, Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and 20th Century. In addition to developing informed listening skills, we will discuss a variety of cultural and historical issues that pertain to the pieces and the periods in question, and forms of instruments and instrument classification throughout history. Students will also learn the fundamentals of music theory including notation, ear training, composition, and music reading. Throughout the year, students will learn different aspects of music and instruments, and have many opportunities to create their own music using their knowledge of music theory. Through active listening and participation, this course will provide both skilled musicians and novices with fruitful material for continued musical enjoyment.

Music 100 Music in our Lives (Grade 9)

Music in our lives is a course designed for any student who needs to complete his/her music requirement for graduation.  In keeping with the title, the students will be having experiences with music rather than studying about it.  As much as possible, “hands-on” activities such as creating, composing, and performing etc. will take place.  Students will create projects and participate in group activities which will be presented to the class.

Music 101 Chorus

Chorus is a vocal ensemble that meets everyday.We sing a large variety of repertoire in three-party harmony including many styles : jazz standards, classical, Broadway music (Rent, Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserables...), and much more. Through our repertoire and warm-ups students learn correct singing position, breathing, posture, and diction. Grades in chorus rely on attendance and mandatory class participation.

Music 102 Keyboard Ensemble

The RACS Keyboard Ensemble is a class where students learn the theory of music, the proper playing of a keyboard, and the opportunity to perform music in an orchestra-type format. Each student has individual playing tests which range from repertoire being studied to scales and arpeggios that help in learning the theory behind music. Grades are based on individual playing exams and class participation (practicing skills).

Music 103 Steel Drum Ensemble

The RACS Steel Drum Ensemble is a class where students learn the theory of music and the proper playing of the steel drums including care, maintenance, and proper hand/playing position. All students have individual playing tests on the various repertoires we practice. Grades are based on playing exams and class participation (practicing skills).

Music 200 Performing Arts 1 (Grade 10-11)

This course teaches the fundamentals of singing, dancing, acting and technical theater.  Students will learn and perform the above fundamentals as independent art forms, and integrate skills necessary in staging a musical production.  Students are required to participate in all after school rehearsals and performances.  There is a written mid-term exam and a performance based final exam.  The Student will select the focus of musical interest as vocal, instrumental, or technical.

Music 300 Performing Arts 2 (Grade 11-12)

This course will present the student with the opportunity to achieve the “Distinguished” level of performance in the performing arts as prescribed in the NYS Framework for the Arts.  This course continues the areas of Theater, Music, and Dance with a higher level of achievement than Performing Arts 1 course presently allows.

SPANISH

Spanish 1 (Grade 7)

Seventh Grade Spanish students learn vocabulary, sentence structure and begin to practice the study habits necessary to learn a foreign language.  First year students focus on pronunciation of conversational Spanish.

Spanish 2 (Grade 8)

Eight Grade Students complete checkpoint A in the NYS Language other than English Curriculum for Spanish.  They learn about the culture of the Spanish people, and develop coherent sentences in conversational Spanish.  Required, is the NYS Language other than English Proficiency exam at the end of 8th grade.

Span 100 (Grade 9)

Ninth graders complete checkpoint B in the NYS Language other than English Curriculum for Spanish.  All NYS graduating seniors needs to have a unit of credit in a language other than English.  At the end of 9th grade, students will be able to write short essays in Spanish.

Span 200 (Grade 10)

10th grade Spanish is a regents course.  Students will carry on conversations in Spanish in present and past tense with ease, thereby completing Checkpoint C.  At the end of the 10th grade course students will write, and read with comprehension in Spanish.  They are also required to know about the many cultures of Spanish-speaking countries.

Span 201 Current Events in Hispanic Culture (Grade 11, Elective)

An introduction to the Spanish World, this course will focus on current events, particularly placing the issue in its historical cultural, and economic context.  The current events will be related to those happening in the Spanish-speaking countries, but also the effects it has on the United States.

HEALTH/Home and Career

LS 7 Life Skills (Grade 7)

LS 8 Life Skills (Grade 8)

LS 500 High School Health

Health Education offers students an opportunity to acquire knowledge, practice skills, and develop attitudes that can benefit them throughout life.  Building a solid foundation of good decision-making skills can contribute to a variety of healthy choices for self and others.  The students will learn ways to improve mental health and manage stress.  Strategies for appropriately and safely expressing emotions will be developed by the students.  They will recognize the range of emotions, including extremes.  It is known that many lifelong practices and habits are learned and acquired during childhood and youth.  These growing and developing years are extremely important to the establishment of sound health practices.  Teachers are encouraged to use the teaching resource files for the Alcohol and Drug Prevention Education Program to help students achieve these standards in RACS.  The students in health courses will understand the anatomy and physiology of the male and female reproductive systems while recognizing the impact teen pregnancies have on quality of life, lifestyle, and the incidence of child abuse.  They will discuss the legal, social, and emotional implications of pornography, prostitution, sexual abuse, incest, and rape persuasion The other subject is learning the immediate first-aid procedures which students may need throughout their lives.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

PE 7 Physical Education

PE 8 Physical Education

PE 100-200-300-400 Physical Education (Grades 9-12)

Physical Education is very important to the education and development of a Junior High and High School student.  The Rochester Academy of Science Physical Education Program has been designed with this philosophy in mind.  Through the RACS Physical Education Curriculum students will become moving, thinking and feeling citizens. This is done by teaching and developing the total child.  The total child consists of the students’ psychomotor, cognitive, and affective domains. We feel the RACS Physical Education program will build a positive attitude towards physical activity.  Students will be given an opportunity to be successful in a wide range of activities.  It is our goal to provide each student with the knowledge and skills needed to maintain a healthy and physically active lifestyle. Students must have a total of 2 credits in Physical Education to receive a High School Diploma in New York State.

COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY

Tech 7, Computer and Technology Education 1 (Grade 7)

Students will first learn and demonstrate proficiency in keyboarding. Emphasis is on good keyboarding techniques and familiarization with the keyboard.  Additionally, formatting for reports, letters, and research papers is covered. Following that, Students will learn Microsoft Office 2003 Word. MS Word processing in the seventh grade is to develop an understanding of computers, to explore computer software, and to investigate technology related careers. Students cover correct keyboarding techniques, letters, reports and composing. They are asked to proofread and edit documents using word processing functions: spell check, delete, replace, insert, move, copy, search and replace. Formatting and printing documents with margins, style, fonts, size, and justification is introduced along with correcting documents from proofreader’s marks and incorporating language arts skills.

Tech 8, Computer and Technology Education 2 (Grade 8)

This course begins with a review of keyboarding. Following that, the course reinforces keyboarding and expands the use of Microsoft Office 2003 for Windows to include more advanced features. It focuses on the integration of Office 2003's word processor (Word), presentation (PowerPoint), spread sheet (Excel). MS PowerPoint is a powerful tool to create professional looking presentations and slide shows. It allows students to construct presentations from scratch or by using the easy to use wizard.  MS Excel is allows students to create professional spreadsheets and charts. It performs numerous functions and formulas to assist students in their projects.

CT 200 Computer and Technology

Students will first learn and demonstrate keyboarding and expands the use of Microsoft Office 2003 for Windows to include more advanced features. It focuses on the integration of Office 2003's word processor (Word), presentation (PowerPoint), spread sheet (Excel). MS PowerPoint is a powerful tool to create professional looking presentations and slide shows.

CT 300 Database and Web Design (Grade 10-11)

Students will first learn and demonstrate proficiency in Database. MS Access is a powerful program to create and manage your databases. It has many built in features to assist you in constructing and viewing information. Following that, Students will learn Web Design. Computer software training will include Front Page and/or HTML. Electronic Commerce/Web Page Design will prepare students to develop commercial websites on the Internet. Students will develop Internet research techniques for business, acquire storyboarding skills, use web sites, and study fundamental concepts of security.

CT 301 Graph Design and Desktop Publisher I

This course provides an introduction to Microsoft Publisher 2003. Topics include creating and editing single-page and multi-page publications, using wizards, commercial printing considerations, editing text, colors, and graphic design objects, personal information sets, logos, the Pack and Go Wizard, and using Publisher to create flyers, newsletters, brochures, logos, calendars, and Web pages. Also included are topics covering business forms such as letterheads, business cards, envelopes, labels with mail merge, business cards, invoices, fax covers, tables, Web forms for e-commerce, and object linking and embedding.

CT 302 Graph Design and Desktop Publisher II

This course provides introductory through advanced instruction on Microsoft Office 2003 Topics include creating a worksheet and an embedded chart formulas, functions, formatting, and Web queries, What-If analysis, charting, and working with large worksheets, creating static and dynamic Web pages using Excel, financial functions, data tables, amortization schedules, and hyperlinks, creating, sorting, and querying a list, creating templates and working with multiple worksheets. This  course provides  introductory through intermediate instruction Macromedia  Application  include Understand the Macromedia Flash Environment ,Open a Document and Play a Movie, Create and Save a Movie, Work with Layers and the Timeline, Plan a Web Site, Distribute a Macromedia Flash Movie Use the Macromedia Flash Drawing Tools, Edit Drawings , Work with Objects ,Work with Text, Work with Layers.

CT 400 Introduction to Programming (Grade 11)

This course is highly recommended for anyone considering studying engineering or computer science in college. This course begins with a review of Database. Following that, Students will be introduced to the fundamentals of programming. After mastering the various programming techniques through a series of exercises and short programs, students are expected to complete a programming project. This course will include C++ and/or Java

Lang 102  Turkish

GRADE  PROMOTION POLICY

1) Rochester Academy will have 4 Marking periods for all grade levels.

2) Teachers will be flexible with final exams. The teachers whose students are taking State Assessments or Regents exams at the end of the year may opt to accept the State exams as their final exam grade.

3) Final exam score will be entered to school database as a percentage of the final course grade.

4) For special category subjects, it is recommended that teachers give a project in lieu of a final exam.

5) 65% is the passing score at RACS. At the end of the year, the average of the 4 MP percentages plus the final exam will be calculated and will represent the student’s final grade.

6) In 7th and 8th grade, student will be allowed to fail 1 core subject (2nd language is considered a core subject) and 1 special. Any student failing 2 or more core subjects will need to attend summer school and pass the subject to be promoted to the next grade level.

7) At high school level, students will need to pass all required core subjects. If they fail a course and take it in summer school and don’t pass it, they will need to repeat the subject the following year.

8) Students who earn a 3.0 – 3.49 GPA for the marking period will be granted Honor Roll Status.  Students who earn a 3.5 – 4.0 GPA for the marking period will be granted Dean’s List status.

Individualized Learning Program

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Our goal is to have all our students accepted to colleges, and we will specially focus on this issue for each student. College preparation is one of our main objectives.

In order to motivate students, one of the key features of the education program at RACS is the “Individualized Learning Program” approach. In this approach, each student, starting in 10th grade, have an Individualized Learning Program (ILP). The main goal of the ILP is ensure and track a program for the college entrance of each student. This is specifying the student's academic goals for the year. It is delineate the responsibilities of Students and Parents and includes a timeline and benchmarks for achieving the stated goals. The timeline and benchmarks provide the format for evaluating on-going skill attainment. The ILP will be developed by the parents, supervisor, and student (if appropriate).

Parents are encouraged to actively participate in the formation of the ILP. The ILP Includes the Present Level of Educational Performance which describes how well the student is performing at that time. Long-term goals will be determined. These long-term goals are specific goals for academic and other skills for the student during the academic year. Short-term objectives will also be identified. These objectives will be the measurable, intermediate teaching steps to aid the student in achieving his/her long-term goals. Methods of determining progress will be outlined in order to measure the student's progress toward the ILP goals.

How to Find a Field of Study

Choosing a major can be quite a complicated decision that requires serious thought and consideration. This is a decision that will shape your college experience, the career that follows and your life in general. Not to put any pressure on you or anything, but it really is that big of a decision.

So how does one go about selecting a major? What does the process involve and how soon do I need to have made a decision?

What Subjects Are You Interested In?

One great way to select a major is to consider what you are interested in. What have you been interested in during your life so far? What have been your favorite classes? Anything that has interested you is fair game at this point. Make sure you write down all of the topics and subjects you’re interested in. Now flip through your university’s course catalog to see what majors are available. Note anything that sparks your interest.

What’s the Subject Like?

As you come up with topics you’re interested in, why not take a class on the subject? This is the perfect way to familiarize yourself with the major and to see if you have enough of an interest in it to pursue for the remainder of your college career and into your professional career. Introductory courses are the perfect place to feel out majors to see if they are right for you.

What Will the Study Program Involve?

If you are still interested in the major after taking a class or two in the subject, it’s now time to look into what taking this as a major will involve. Go to the department in which the major is located and pick up course planners and information. You need to know things like what classes this major will require, what sorts of things will be covered in these classes and what will be expected of you. It’s also a good idea to meet with an advisor or counselor at this point to discuss your preliminary decisions.

It is very important that you can foresee yourself actually enjoying the classes required for this major. Now, no major is perfect and you certainly won’t enjoy every class. However, you need to expect to enjoy the majority of your courses, because otherwise what’s the point?

When Do I Need to Decide?

Now, if you know what you want to do with you life when you enter college, good for you! That’s truly a great accomplishment and you don’t have to worry about figuring out your major while in school. However, the majority of students are unsure about what they want to do for a career, so it’s not unusual for students to be well into their college career without having decided yet. However, you’re going to want to make a decision by the time you enter the third year of college. This is the time you will be taking upper division courses almost exclusively which will include your major courses, whatever they end up being.

What Career Opportunities Will it Provide?

One last consideration you need to think about before you choose a major is what sort of career you want to pursue after college. What are typical careers that people enter into after majoring in this subject? Will you need additional schooling before you can get a job in the field? Answering these questions will further help you select a major and make decisions about your life and future career.

Searching for a College

For students struggling to find direction, here are some “Important Questions and Considerations You Should Ask Yourself when Searching for a College”:

Admissions

• What is the school known for? Athletics, research, partying?
• What are the admission requirements?
• What qualities should prospective students have?
• Which standardized test scores do they require?
• What majors are offered? What’s the most popular?
• What are the application deadlines for admission?

Financial aid

• How much will tuition and expenses cost?
• What financial aid options are offered?
• When is your financial aid deadline?

Classroom

• What is the average class size, or student to professor ratio?
• How accessible are professors outside of class?
• When must you choose a major?
• What student services are offered (tutoring, career counseling, study workshops)?
• How up-to-date are the libraries, computer labs?

Housing

• What type of housing is available? On-campus, off-campus, apartments, dorms, co-op living?
• Is student housing guaranteed for four years?
• Would you have a roommate or live alone?
• What is the cost of renting apartments near the campus?

Student life

• What special interest groups, activities, fraternities/sororities are available?
• What’s it like on campus on the weekends?
• Are any programs offered to help students adjust to the college life?
• Are intramural, club, and varsity sports offered?
• Are meal plans available?