Successful advice for success by Rob Amstel
Science
Technology
Engineering
Math
Design
Manchester High School
Computer-aided Design and Drafting 1
Designed for students planning to pursue engineering or other technical careers, this course introduces the basic techniques of drafting, using Computer-aided Drafting and Design (CADD) software. Students create three-dimensional models of real world objects such as a sports bottle, coffee mug and CD storage box. They will also create multi-part assemblies and animations. Geometric construction, sketching, and dimensioning are major components of the course.
Computer-Aided Design and Drafting 2
Sequential: Computer-aided Drafting and Design 1 This is a continuation of Computer-aided Drafting and Design 1, providing additional skills in problem solving using CADD software. Semester 2 increases skills with multi-bodied solids, sweeps, lofts, surfaces and material analysis. Sample projects include an offset screwdriver, tire iron, hard hat and crane hook. Students wishing to further their experiences in this subject should register for the appropriate Seminar in Technology Education.
Aviation & Aerospace
Aviation and Aerospace provides an introduction and overview of flight technologies. Students will study the parts of an airplane, power for flight, and rocket technology. The principles of flight will be examined and applied using scaled gliders, powered air- craft, and rockets. Satellites, space travel, and aerospace careers will also be explored. Students will exhibit their piloting skills using a flight simulator program. Students wishing to further their experiences in this subject should register for the Aviation and Aerospace Seminar in Technology Education.
Automotive Technology 1
This course introduces the basic principles of Power Mechanics Technology. Emphasis is placed on safety in the lab and the workplace, as well as the safe and proper use of tools and equipment. The small gas engine is studied thoroughly leading up to larger automotive engines. The automobile is also studied as a transportation system with emphasis placed on the basic operation of the engine and its sub-systems. Students will actively participate in basic routine maintenance procedures in a laboratory setting.
Automotive Technology 2
This advanced course allows the student to develop a more thorough understanding of the automobile as a transportation sys-tem. This course includes in-depth activities with automobiles with an increased emphasis on safe work habits and proper use of tools and equipment in the workshop. Activities include the diagnosis, inspection, service, and repair of automotive systems. Students will explore the use of alternate energy sources for transportation systems, including the design and building of operating vehicles for interscholastic competitions. Students wishing to further their experiences in this subject should register for the appropriate Seminar in Technology Education course.
Innovation/Engineering/Design
This course provides students with an introduction to the systems used by inventors and the manufacturing industry to develop, design, and engineer products to meet human needs and wants. Emphasis is placed on the use of the computer as a tool in design and problem solving. Students will learn how inventions have taken place in the past and present, their environmental impacts, and consequences. Using today's technology, students will create their own inventions and present the development of their ideas with supporting data.
Robotics
Recommended for students interested in robotics, engineering, or other technical careers. This course provides an introduction to the basics of robotics structure and control. Students will construct several different robots for different scenarios. Students will experience hands-on building, personal driving, and software programming of the robot. Students wishing to further their experiences
Mechanical/ Aviation Engineering
Core Requirements
English/ Language Arts
Sophomore English
Sophomore English builds upon the skills introduced in grade 9. The expectation is for students to improve upon their ability to dissect complex texts by participating in close readings and academic writing. Along with the classics and Young Adult Literature, a World Literature Anthology providing a variety of genres is used as the major resource. A vocabulary, speaking and listening and conventions of the English Language components are expanded and emphasized as well. Technology is infused and utilized in a variety of assessments ensuring students are kept abreast of technological opportunities which better prepare them in the 21s t century.
GRADE 11
Literature and Composition
This course engages students in careful reading and critical analysis of American and World classic / literature. Students develop skills in close reading of complex texts, analysis of rhetorical strategies and deeper understanding of the literary elements . Technology is infused and utilized in a variety of assessments ensuring students are kept abreast of technological opportunit ies which better prepare them in the 21st century. Students must sit for the AP exam in May, potentially earning college credit.
UCONN Honors American Studies
American Studies is a work intensive, interdisciplinary, team taught course. Students are expected to independently read college level fiction and nonfiction texts and write sophisticated thesis driven essays that synthesize their understanding of American history, literature, and culture. Students meet daily which fulfills the requirements for Junior English (1.00 credit) and U.S. History (1.00 credit). The course offers a variety of learning experiences, including a number of field trips designed to enhance the curriculum. Technology is infused and utilized in a variety of assessments ensuring students are kept abreast of technologic al opportunities which better prepares them in the 21st century. Students who earn a “C” or better and who register for this course per the University of Connecticut’s guidelines are eligible to receive 3 UCONN credits, which may also be transferable to other institutions. Students must be recommended for this course by both their English teacher and their History teacher.
American Literature
The course of study for juniors emphasizes the analytical study of American literature. The primary focus is on close reading and academic writing in order to convey one’s depth of knowledge in a sophisticated manner. This theme based course connects current events with history spanning from the Colonial Period through the Modern Era. Students independently research American topics to support their views of American ideologies. Vocabulary, speaking and listening, and the conventions of English language, are an essential component of junior English courses. Technology is infused and utilized in a variety of assessments ensuring students are kept abreast of technological opportunities which better prepare them in the 21st century.
Senior English
The Senior English course is designed to ensure college and career readiness. Its focus is on rigorous college preparatory writing, as well as on developing competency in reading, understanding, and responding to college level texts. Required reading will be drawn from nonfiction, fiction and various multimedia sources. Students will continue to explore reading and writing as processes, with the goals of improving the effectiveness of oral and written communication as well as developing the ability to analyze texts and synthesize information. Technology is used in a variety of assessments ensuring students are kept abreast of technological opportunities which better prepare them in the 21st century.
Senior English/Public Speaking
This course is designed to improve students’ speaking, writing, and listening skills in order to become more confident and effective communicators. With an emphasis on articulating the conventions of the English Language written essays, speech preparation, topic related research and improved delivery techniques are honed. There is an accompanying technology component that enhances the course keeping students abreast of current technological advancement which support presentations. This course is not approved by the NCAA as a core English course.
Mathematics
Algebra 2
The Common Core Algebra 2 curriculum connects students’ prior knowledge of function analysis, geometric reasoning and working with data to the investigation and application of more complex algebraic a nd trigonometric functions. The curriculum focuses on strengthening students’ ability to model and interpret complex situations and develop and defend mathematical solutions to problems.
Geometry
The Common Core Geometry curriculum connects students’ prior knowledge of algebraic reasoning, function analysis and working with data to the investigation and application of geometric relationships and formulas. The curriculum focuses on the study of coordinate geometry, congruence and similarity relationships, and connections from algebra and functions. It also strengthens students’ ability to model and interpret situations, and use deductive reasoning to develop mathematical solutions to problems.
Pre-Calculus
This course presents important concepts and methods from Algebra, Analytic Geometry, and Trigonometry. It illustrates how they may be used in concert to attack significant, theoretical and practical problems. Emphasis is placed on Trigonometry and function theory to provide the foundation for the study of college level mathematics.
Calculus
This course is designed to provide highly motivated students the opportunity to study Calculus topics as a preparation for their college career. Topics include limits, derivatives, anti-derivatives, and indefinite and definite integrals. A study of transcendental functions is included, as well as infinite sequences and series. Emphasis will be placed on application of Calculus topics and integration of graphing calculators to solve problems.
Science
Biology
All students taking Biology will have the same core course material, studying the topics of biochemistry, cell structure and function, genetics and evolution. The curriculum is aligned with State standards for science. All levels of biology emphasize a hands-on, minds-on approach to increase student involvement in their learning. Labs and activities are done to illustrate the conceptual material. CAPT-like activities are done throughout the year to help students prepare for the CAPT.
Chemistry
All students taking Chemistry will have the same core course material. Topics include the mole, formula writing, principles of chemical reactions, quantitative measurements of reactions, a study of energy change, rates of reactions, atomic theory, chemical bonding, acids and bases, and organic chemistry. Supplementary topics may be added by the instructor based on time available and student interests. The curriculum is to be aligned with National standards for science. The depth of content and the independence at which the students work determines the level of the course which should be selected. All levels of chemistry emphasize a student-centered activity approach to increase student involvement in their learning. Labs are done on a weekly basis with lab write-ups required.
Physics
All students taking Physics will have the same core course material. Topics include scalars, vectors, kinematics, dynamics, conservation of energy and momentum, universal gravitation and planetary motion, simple harmonic motion, light, optics, static electricity, current electricity, electric circuits, electromagnetism and introductions to electronics, radioactivity and nuclear physics. Supplementary topics may be added by the instructor based on time available and student interests. The curriculum is aligned with National standards for science. The depth of content and the independence at which the students work determines the level of the course which should be selected. All levels of physics emphasize a hands-on, minds-on approach to increase student involvement in their learning.
Scientific Principles of Technology
Taught cooperatively by the Science and Technology Education Departments for science credit, this is an applied physical science course designed for students who plan technical careers and those wishing to expand their knowledge of the principles of modern technology. It stresses a hands-on approach to learning the principles of mechanical, electrical, fluid, and thermal systems. This course has been accepted by major universities as meeting the laboratory science entrance requirement.
Social Studies
Law and Order
This course is designed to teach the Criminal Justice System as it relates to the average citizen. It is team-taught at the police station with a police officer (MPD educational coordinator). The course includes field trips to Hartford Superior Court and State of Connecticut correctional facilities. The class includes numerous “practical” field tests for students. Those students who enroll in the Criminal Justice Pathways Program can take this course for MCC credit. Students in this class will be given the opportunity to complete the Service Learning requirement.
Participation in American Society
The goal of this course is to get students actively involved in the world around them and convince them of the importance of being an active and contributing member of American society. The emphasis is on participation which might include simulations, case studies, position papers, mock trials and debates, interviews, polls, field trips, guest speakers, community service, and shadow experiences. Students in this class will be given the opportunity to complete the Service Learning requirement.
Modern US History
The goal of this course is an in-depth analysis of key events, people and issues in late nineteenth and twentieth century United States History, with special emphasis on key themes, concepts, and skills. The course is arranged chronologically and begins with the United States centennial of 1876. The first semester examines American politics, culture, foreign policy and economics. The second semester follows the United States through the Great Depression of the 1930s until present day. Students in this class will be given the opportunity to complete the History Day requirement.
UCONN American Studies
This course is offered in conjunction with the University of Connecticut’s Early College Experience program. Students study American History and Literature. The course also places a heavy emphasis on American cultural studies, such as art, architecture and music. Students in this course will be given the opportunity to complete the History Day requirement. The course meets for one block every day. The student earns a credit which fulfill the U.S. History requirement as well as a credit for one year of English coursework. Students who elect for UConn credit must pay a fee and complete UConn requirements. See your Guidance Counselor for specific program requirements.
Modern World History The focus of this course is to examine the interaction of the Western and non-Western world from 1500 to the present. Developments in the West will be a major focus of the 10th grade requirement; in addition, focus will be placed on non-western cultures prior to and independent of their interaction with Europe, giving the students a truly worldwide view of history. Students also practice the format and skills that are required to complete the CAPT Interdisciplinary Writing Test given in March of the 10th grade.
Electrical/ Computer Science
Electronics Technology 1
This course is designed for students who plan to pursue engineering or other technical careers. Students are introduced to the basic concepts of household wiring, electricity/electronics and their applications. The course features hands on lab work which employs electronic test equipment in the building and testing of experimental circuits. Students will apply basic assembly skills in producing a variety of circuits.
Electronics Technology 2
This course covers semiconductors for digital circuits, digital logic circuits and digital integrated circuits; introduces Boolean Algebra, flip-flops and registers, sequential logic circuits and combinational logic circuits. Students learn how digital circuits are used in semi- conductor memories. Some AC wiring and switching is covered as well as some basic computer maintenance and networking topics. Students wishing to further their experiences in this subject should register for the appropriate Seminar in Technology Education.
Innovation/Engineering/Design
This course provides students with an introduction to the systems used by inventors and the manufacturing industry to develop, design, and engineer products to meet human needs and wants. Emphasis is placed on the use of the computer as a tool in design and problem solving. Students will learn how inventions have taken place in the past and present, their environmental impacts, and consequences. Using today's technology, students will create their own inventions and present the development of their ideas with supporting data.
Robotics
Recommended for students interested in robotics, engineering, or other technical careers. This course provides an introduction to the basics of robotics structure and control. Students will construct several different robots for different scenarios.
Computer Programming I
This course is designed to teach the fundamentals of computer programming using Visual BASIC. Emphasis is placed on the creative design of well-structured programs. Students will learn the vocabulary and the process for designing and running a windows-based program.
Computer Programming and Game Design
This course is designed to further the study of computer science. The course incorporates theory, language, and the architecture of computer game design into the challenge of dealing with the complete design and programming of a computer game. Emphasis on software design and programming will be stressed by using Game Maker Pro. Graphic design will incorporate Autodesk 3D Max. Multiple platforms are used.
AP Computer Science Prerequisite
This course emphasizes the design issues that make programs understandable, adaptable, and reusable. The development of useful computer programs and program modules is used as a context for introducing other important concepts in computer science, including the development and analysis of algorithms, the development and use of fundamental data structures, and the study of standard algorithms and typical applications. The course teaches students to read and understand a large program consisting of several classes and interacting objects, and enables students to read and understand the current AP Computer Science Case Study posted on AP Central that is a required part of the AP Computer Science curricula. Students are responsible for checking with their specific colleges for exact AP course acceptance.
Architecture 1
This course introduces students to the basic drafting techniques, building codes, and conventions used in producing architectural drawings. Students are introduced to the home design process and focus on room layout and relationships, window and door planning, aesthetic considerations and functionality. Emphasis is placed on the planning and specification of structures in light of their intended functions and the characteristics of their component parts.
Architecture 2
This course builds upon the experience in Architecture 1. Students will address the more advanced concepts of design, structural efficiency, and aesthetics. Focus will be placed on presenting design ideas, specifying building materials and components and incorporating schedules and detail drawings into the design process. These concepts will be incorporated into student constructed scale models and CAD drawings. Students wishing to further their experiences in this subject should register for the appropriate Seminar in Technology Education. Students successfully completing Architecture 1 and 2 in grades 11 or 12 may earn credit from Capitol Community College or MCC when enrolled in the appropriate Career Pathways program.
Construction Technology 1
This course provides the student with an overview of structures such as walls, trusses, beams, towers, dams, bridges, and the forces acting upon them. Various materials that are used in the construction process are studied. Destructive testing will be employed to verify structural design and assembly of models. Students will expand their working knowledge of basic math. Students will improve skills such as reading a ruler, using fractions and applying simple geometric concepts, and work with construction specific power tools.
Construction Technology 2
This course deals with the various components of the U.S. infrastructure, including houses, bridges, highway systems, buildings etc. Emphasis is placed upon light construction, residential building, creating and reading blueprints and shed construction. Students enrolling in Construction 2 are expected to be proficient in basic math. They should be able to read a ruler, use fractions and have an understanding of geometry. Students may select one component of the infrastructure and build a scale model based upon individual research.
Innovation/Engineering/Design
This course provides students with an introduction to the systems used by inventors and the manufacturing industry to develop, design, and engineer products to meet human needs and wants. Emphasis is placed on the use of the computer as a tool in design and problem solving. Students will learn how inventions have taken place in the past and present, their environmental impacts, and consequences. Using today's technology, students will create their own inventions and present the development of their ideas with supporting data.