Dr/Nermien Ismail American School: Course D escriptions
English English 9 The ninth-grade student will demonstrate an understanding and use of oral language structure. The student will plan, present, and critique dramatic readings of literary selections. Knowledge of literary terms and forms will be applied in his or her own writing and in the analysis of literature. The student will be introduced to significant literary works. Increased requirements for research and reporting in all subjects will be maintained by the use of print, electronic databases, online resources, and a standard style sheet method to cite reference sources. Writing will include narrative, literary, expository, and informational forms, with attention to analysis. The student will show correct use of language, spelling, and mechanics by applying grammatical conventions in writing and speaking. Prerequisite
: completion of 8th grade English.
Credit
: 1.0
Length of course
: 1 year
English 10 The tenth-grade student will become a skilled and active communicator in smallgroup learning activities. The student will read and critique literary works from a variety of eras and cultures. The student is to analyze consumer information, such as labels, owners’ manuals, warranties, and contracts. The student will critique the writing of peers and professionals, using analysis to improve his or her writing skills. The student will continue to build research skills by crediting sources and presenting information in an appropriate format for content. Grammar knowledge will be expanded as the student presents, writes, and edits materials, using and applying the conventions of language. Prerequisite
: completion of 9th grade English.
Credit
: 1.0
Length of course
: 1 year
Dr/Nermien Ismail American School: Course D escriptions
English 11 The eleventh-grade student will be able to make informative and persuasive oral presentations, with attention to the accuracy of evidence and the effectiveness of delivery. Studying classic and contemporary American literature will enhance the student’s appreciation for literature. The student will be able to identify some of the themes and characterizations of American literature. The student will be able to write clear personal, professional, and informational correspondence and reports for research and other applications. Grammar development will continue through the application of rules for sentence structure, usage, spelling, and mechanics. The student will be able to develop informative and persuasive compositions by locating, evaluating, and citing applicable information with careful attention to organization and accuracy. Prerequisite
: completion of 10th grade English.
Credit
: 1.0
Length of course
: 1 year
English 12 The twelfth- grade student will use organizational skills, audience awareness, appropriate vocabulary and grammar, in addition to both verbal and nonverbal presentation skills, to plan and deliver an effective presentation. The student will analyze British literature and literature of other cultures, with attention to the many classic works which will be studied. Writing will include the production of informational and expository essays, which are organized logically and contain clear and accurate ideas. The student will also produce a well-documented research paper, using a standard technique of documentation. The student will display advanced knowledge of grammatical conventions through writing, and speaking. Prerequisite
: completion of 11th grade English.
Credit
: 1.0
Length of course
: 1 year
Dr/Nermien Ismail American School: Course D escriptions
Social Science Geography 9 In grade 9, students will address standards that emphasize physical and political geography and explain the five major concepts of geography: location, place, human interaction with the environment, movement, and regions. Students will analyze the concept of place refers to the physical and man- made characteristics of a place such as a town or city. The course studies the human, interaction with the environment and explains the many ways in which people have adapted to their surroundings or altered them for economic reasons. Students will analyze the movement of people, goods, and ideas in comparison to the shifts of climates and living situations. The course explains region, refers to ways of categorizing areas of the earth, such as by climate. Prerequisite
: completion of 8th grade Social Studies.
Credit
: 1.0
Length of course
: 1 year
World History I Students in grade 10 study the social, cultural, and technological changes that occurred in ancient world and the ways in which archaeologists and historians uncover the past, students study the history and geography of great civilizations that were developing concurrently throughout the world during medieval and early modern times. Prerequisite
: completion of 9th grade Geography.
Credit
: 1.0
Length of course
: 1 year
Dr/Nermien Ismail American School: Course D escriptions
World History II In Grade 11 students examine the growing economic interactions among civilizations as well as the exchange of ideas, beliefs, technologies and commodities. They learn about the resulting growth of enlightenment philosophy, and the new examination of the concept of reason and authority. Finally students assess the political forces let loose by the enlightenment, particularly the democratic ideas and they learn about the continuing influence of these ideas in the world today, with a focus on North America. Prerequisite
: completion of World History I.
Credit
: 1.0
Length of course
: 1 year
Business The course is designed to help students develop critical thinking skills, through the understanding, application and analysis of fundamental business concepts. Prerequisite
: Grade 11/12 standing.
Credit
: 1.0
Length of course
: 1 year
Economics The economics course examines the allocation of scarce resources and the economic reasoning used by government agencies and by people as consumers, producers, savers, investors, workers, and voters. Key elements include the study of scarcity, supply and demand, market structures, the role of government, national income determination, money and the role of financial institutions, economic stabilization, and trade. Prerequisite
: Grade 11/12 status.
Credit
: 1.0
Length of course
: 1 year
Dr/Nermien Ismail American School: Course D escriptions
Psychology Students enrolled in this course study the history of psychology as well as individual and social psychology. Students will study how the knowledge and methods of psychologists are applied to the solution of human problems. This course helps students understand the human development, biological bases of heavier, sensation and perception. Students study the process of learning, memory, cognition behavior patterns, motivation, emotion and adjustments to social environments. It studies psychological disorders and their treatments. This course stresses application, problem-solving, higher-order thinking skills, and use of classroom performancebased/open-ended assessments with rubrics. Prerequisite
: Grade 11/12 standing.
Credit
: 1.0
Length of course
: 1 year
Sociology The sociology course introduces students to the social systems that are the foundation of society. Emphasis will be placed on culture and socialization, social status, social institutions, and social problems. It studies the effects and influences of social expectations on behavior. Using the tools and techniques of sociologists, students will examine changes that are occurring in society and define their causes, consequences, and possible solutions. Students will read major sociological theorists as well as consider how sociologists approach issues. This course stresses the application, of problem-solving to reach higher-order thinking skills, and the usage of classroom performance based on open-ended assessments and rubrics. Prerequisite
: Grade 11/12 status.
Credit
: 1.0
Length of course
: 1 year
Dr/Nermien Ismail American School: Course D escriptions
Science Physical Science The 9 th Grade Science Program will aid the student to build an adequate database concerning knowledge of Physical Science as a subject and Scientific Terminology which will help the student throughout his/her education to be able to manage relative issues. The course encompasses the Constituents of life, the surrounding environment and how we interact with it to be able to live. Students will get to know the meaning of Matter & an Atom, a Compound, a Chemical Bond, and other terms. Students will undergo lab sessions to cover the practical part of the curriculum. Prerequisite
: Grade 9 status.
Credit
: 1.0
Length of course
: 1 year
Biology Biology is the study of life. In this course you will explore units covering the characteristics of science, ecology, cells/molecular biology, genetics, diversity of organisms, and how organisms change over time. Throughout the year, students will be engaged in both classroom and laboratory activities to further enhance their understanding of biological concepts. Prerequisite
: Successful completion of 9th grade Science.
Credit
: 1.0
Length of course
: 1 year
Dr/Nermien Ismail American School: Course D escriptions
Chemistry Students should explore chemistry through inquiry, hands-on laboratory investigations, individual studies, and group activities. The students’ experiences in chemistry should enable them to understand the role of chemistry in their lives by investigating substances that occur in nature, in living organisms and those that are created by humans. Their study should include both qualitative and quantitative descriptions of matter and the changes that matter undergoes. Students should practice the necessary precautions for performing safe inquiries and activities and appreciate the risks and benefits of producing and using chemical substances. Prerequisite
: Successful completion of 10th grade Biology.
Credit
: 1.0
Length of course
: 1 year
Physics Physics is the study of the relationship between matter and energy and how they interact. Using the inquiry method, students will investigate mechanics, thermodynamics, waves and sound, light and optics, electricity and magnetism, and atomic and nuclear physics. Students will operate as individuals and group members in a technology and laboratory rich environment. This course will utilize the laboratory exercises in the course textbook, laboratory manual, along with additional resources. Prerequisite
: Successful completion of 10th grade Biology.
Credit
: 1.0
Length of course
: 1 year
Dr/Nermien Ismail American School: Course D escriptions
Math Integrated Math The course expands on the concepts studied in both Algebra and Geometry. Course topics include quadrilaterals, polygons, volumes, systems of equations, similar triangles, matrices, transformations, polynomials, quadratic functions, right triangle trigonometry. Prerequisite
: Pass 8th grade Math.
Credit
: 1.0
Length of course
: 1 year
Algebra 2 The course includes absolute value inequalities, systems of equations in three variables, inverse matrices and Cramer's rule, quadratic inequalities, the remainder and factor theorem, exponential and logarithmic equations, rational functions, radical functions, conic sections, arithmetic and geometric sequences, trigonometric graphs and equations. Prerequisite
: Pass Integrated Math.
Credit
: 1.0
Length of course
: 1 year
Dr/Nermien Ismail American School: Course D escriptions
Pre-Calculus This course provides the mathematical background needed for Calculus. Topics will include: review of basic terminology; techniques for finding algebraic solutions for various types of equations and inequalities; polynomial and rational functions; exponential and logarithmic functions; and trigonometric functions and equations. Prerequisite
: Successful completion of Algebra 2.
Credit
: 1.0
Length of course
: 1 year
Calculus This course provides preliminary review on Pre-Calculus. The next part is limits and continuity. Topics include differentiation, application of differentiation, integration and application on integration. All this prepares the students to apply to Engineering and Computer Science Faculties. Prerequisite
: Minimum grade of (B) in Pre-Calculus.
Credit
: 1.0
Length of course
: 1 year
Dr/Nermien Ismail American School: Course D escriptions
Technology Computer Science I This course enables students to understand the technological and computer concepts they need in order to design, develop, and build usable products and/or deliver services, and to pursue further technological education studies. Students will use the technological design process and a variety of tools and software to solve problems, complete projects, and strengthen their communication skills. The basic components of the course will include introduction to programming, networking, and introduction to computer graphics. Prerequisite
: Grade 11 or 12 status.
Credit
: 1.0
Length of course
: 1 year
Computer Science II This course covers the fundamental ideas of the science of computing. Lectures and hands-on assignments cover a wide variety of topics such as hardware organization, the Internet, computer programming, limits of computing, and graphics. Prerequisite
: Grade 11 status.
Credit
: 1.0
Length of course
: 1 year
Dr/Nermien Ismail American School: Course D escriptions
Foreign Language French I This course focuses on students beginning to develop their ability to communicate in French and their understanding of the culture(s) of francophone countries. The three strands include: speaking and writing as an interactive process in which students learn to communicate with another French speaker; listening and reading as receptive processes in which comprehension of French is developed; and speaking and writing in a presentational context in which students are focused on the organization of thoughts and an awareness of their audience in delivering information. Prerequisite
: Grade 9 status.
Credit
: 1.0
Length of course
: 1 year
French II This course emphasizes the further development of oral communication, reading, and writing skills. Students will build on and apply their knowledge of French while exploring a variety of themes, such as relationships, social trends, and careers. Students who successfully complete this course may be skilled enough to write the DELF A1 French proficiency test in order to obtain a diploma certifying their French language skills. DELF stands for "The Diplome d/Etudes en langue Française" which is a certification of French Language abilities for non- native speakers of French. This is officially awared by the French Ministry of Education. Prerequisite
: Grade 10 status.
Credit
: 1.0
Length of course
: 1 year
French III This is an intensive course designed to help students move on to an active learning approach calling upon critical thinking skills and active participation in the process of discovering the French language. Students who successfully complete the course may be skilled enough to write the DELF A2 test. Prerequisite
: Grade 11 status.
Credit
: 1.0
Length of course
: 1 year
Dr/Nermien Ismail American School: Course D escriptions
Arabic Arabic and Religion 9, 10, 11, 12 The primary objective of this course is to enable students to correctly use the structures, lexicon, composition and poetry found in level appropriate texts. Another equally important objective is to reinforce the linguistic competence of the students through a systematic study of selected and level appropriate literary and cultural texts: short stories, drama, poetry and newspaper articles. Prerequisite
: Native speaking Egyptian students who have successfully completed previous coursework in Standard Arabic prior to Grade 9 and successfully complete (in sequence) each year of high school Arabic and Religion courses.
Credit
: 1.0
Length of course
: 1 year
Dr/Nermien Ismail American School: Course D escriptions
Arabic Social Sciences Social Studies (9) According to the Egyptian Ministry of Education, this course covers World Geography, with a special emphasis on India, Nigeria and Germany. As for the history, it covers Egypt from year 1453 – present. Prerequisite
: Successful completion of 8th Grade.
Credit
: 1.0
Length of course
: 1 year
Arabic Social Science (10) According to the Egyptian Ministry of Education, students in this course will study History (Paranoiac, Greek and Roman in Egypt), World Geography, and Civics. Prerequisite
: Successful completion of 9th Grade.
Credit
: 1.0
Length of course
: 1 year
Art Introduction to Art This course includes: 1. Painting – This will include independent study to enhance personal portfolios and to work with handmade paper techniques. 2. Drawing – This will cover perspective, abstract cubism and surrealism. Prerequisite
: This is a required course for 9th or 10th grade students.
Credit
: 1/2
Length of course
: 1 year
Dr/Nermien Ismail American School: Course D escriptions
Art and Design This course includes the following: 1. Drawing and Composition: An introduction to expressive drawing within a variety of media, as well as organization of structural relationships in twodimensional space. 2. Painting: An introduction to the painting materials and techniques of the medium along with various subjective problems involving form, color and composition. 3. Design: The study of the basic design studio problems are investigated – form, color, balance, pattern and texture. 4. Life Drawing: Drawing and composition from the structure, proportions and movement of the human model and expressive exercises in a variety of media. 5. Work on personal portfolio preparation, if desired. Prerequisite
: Grade 11 or 12 status.
Credit
: 1/2
Length of course
: 1 year
Physical Education PE 9 Students demonstrate the ability to use basic skills, strategies, and tactics. Students demonstrate more specialized knowledge in identifying and applying key movement concepts and principles. They assess and develop a personal physical activity program aimed at improving their skill performance. They apply their understanding of personal fitness to lifelong participation in physical activity. Prerequisite
: Grade 9 status.
Credit
: 1/4
Length of course
: 1 year
Dr/Nermien Ismail American School: Course D escriptions
PE 10 Students are proficient in all fundamental movement skills and skill combinations and are competent in self-selected physical activities that they are likely to participate in throughout life. They develop the ability to understand and anticipate how physical activity interests and abilities change across a lifetime. Prerequisite
: Grade 10 status.
Credit
: 1/4
Length of course
: 1 year
PE 11 &12 Physical education provides students with the opportunity to participate in physical activities for specific purposes. Quarterly rotations between soccer, volleyball, handball, and speedball are offered. Prerequisite
: Grade 11 and 12 status.
Credit
: 1/2
Length of course
: 1 year