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Academics
Curriculum
The content of these classes reflects state curriculum guidelines; however,
the teaching approach is unique. Spring Valley School emphasizes an experiential,
hands-on approach. In addition, by-pass approaches are used. By-pass strategies
might include technology such as voice-activated software, books on tape,
spell check-ers, and pedagogical strategies such as oral testing.
| English |
The study of the English language is designed to foster strong, independent
active readers, to enable students to speak and write correctly, and to
develop an appreciation for literature. A summer reading list is provided
for each grade, and students will be tested on summer reading at the beginning
of each school year.
English I
(two semesters, 1 credit)
This course provides the student with a survey of world literature through
its many genres: short story, novel, poetry, essay and drama. Applied
research is taught as well as a review of grammar, usage, and mechanics.
A focus is given to developing the writer's "voice." Weekly
vocabulary units are geared towards preparing students for SAT and ACT
tests.
English II
(two semesters, 1 credit)
This course offers the student a survey of American literature to 1900.
The course also includes vocabulary enrichment, composition strategies
and practice, applied research, and a review of grammar, usage, and mechanics.
The objective of this course is to expand the student's understanding
of literature and to continually build on the foundations of writing established
in previous grades. Weekly vocabulary units are geared towards preparing
students for SAT and ACT tests.
English III
(two semesters, 1 credit)
This course focuses on American literature since 1900, providing insight
into more contemporary issues. Writing assignments of varying length and
topics are a critical part of this course.
English IV
(two semesters, 1 credit)
This course focuses on a variety of British authors from different time
periods. The goal of this course is to further develop active readers,
critical thinkers, and articulate writers capable of meeting collegiate
demands in language and literature.
Academic Writing I
(one semester, 0.5 credits)
This one-semester course provides basic practice in research and writing
fluency necessary for academic success. Students will build on skills
learned in their English classes and complete various writing projects
to improve grammar, mechanics, topic analysis, and paragraph development
in writing Students will also gain competence in using MLA guidelines
for writing research papers and enhance their keyboarding skills. A workshop
setting is provided to allow students to develop and improve on their
assigned research paper for their English class.
Academic Writing II
Prerequisite: Academic Writing I or teacher's permission
This one-semester course will build on skills learned in Academic Writing
I. Students will continue their in-depth examination of and practice in
writing (grammar, mechanics, research, etc.) Using MLA guidelines, each
student will write a major research paper (5-7 pages) for their English
class.
Senior Thesis
Prerequisite: Academic Writing II or teacher's permission
This one-semester course will allow the student to develop a topic of
interest from one of their academic courses and develop it through the
research and writing of a major paper at least 12 pages in length. They
will present their papers in a panel discussion during the final week
of class. |
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| Mathematics |
Algebra I
(two semesters, 1 credit)
Prerequisite:
Algebra II
(two semesters, 1 credit)
Prerequisite: Algebra I or Algebra IA and IB
Algebra II is an extension of Algebra I. Topics place an emphasis on problem
solving. Topics include linear equations, inequalities, systems of equations,
systems of inequalities, relations, functions, polynomials, rational expressions,
rational equations, powers, roots, complex numbers and quadratic equations.
Geometry
(two semesters, 1 credit)
Prerequisite: Algebra I or Algebra IA and IB
Geometry presents a logical development of the basic concepts and understanding
of Euclidean geometry. Included in this course are topics from plane geometry,
solid geometry, and coordinate geometry. This course focuses on the study
of plane and space figures.
Advanced Geometry
(two semesters, 1 credit)
Prerequisite: Algebra I and teacher's permission
Math Applications
(two semesters, 1 credit)
This course will focus on real life applications of mathematics such as
problem solving, estimations, measurements, graph charts, dealing with data,
angles, shape, ratios, and proportion. |
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| Science |
Students are exposed to science in a hands-on, multi-sensory environment.
Biology
(two semesters, 1 credit)
Biology introduces students to the vast diversity of organisms and the characteristics
that define life. Units include cells, interdependence, genetics, and evolution.
Integrated Physics and Chemistry
(two semesters, 1 credit)
This is an introductory course of chemistry and physics. It develops
an awareness of the natural principles in the everyday world.
Earth and Environmental Science - EES
(two semesters, 1 credit)
Many important decisions that affect our daily lives depend on an understanding
of how Earth works and humanity's impact on the environment. The Earth
and Environmental Science course will explore Earth's physical environment
and geological processes, as well as the interactions of living things
with the environment. |
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| Social Studies |
World History Since 1500
(two semesters, 1 Credit)
This course explores historical development from 1500 to the present,
concentrating on the personalities, the ideas and events that have shaped
the modern era in Europe, the Western world, Africa and Asia.
U.S. History, Beginnings to 1900
(two semesters, 1 Credit)
This is the first half of a comprehensive two-year study of American history
and geography. Students cover the historical development of American ideas
and institutions from the Age of Exploration and Discovery to the turn of
the century.
U.S. History, 1900 to the Present
(two semesters, 1 Credit)
This course focuses on twentieth century America and beyond. While focusing
on political and economic his- tory, students will examine American culture
through a chronological survey of major issues, movements, people and
events in United States and Alabama history.
American Government/Economics
(two semesters, 1 Credit)
This course is devoted to the study of the levels and functions of government
in the United States. A basic understanding of macro/micro economics is
also studied. |
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| Spanish |
Spanish I
(two or four semesters, 1 Credit)
Prerequisite: Reading remediation completed
This introductory course presents the phrases, vocabulary, and basic grammar
needed for simple conversational Spanish. Group and paired activities
are used on a regular basis for practice and reinforcement of skills.
Students will also learn about the civilization and culture of the Hispanic
countries.
Spanish II
(two or four semesters, 1 Credit)
Prerequisite: Spanish I
Spanish II builds on the grammatical foundation acquired in Spanish I.
Students will learn additional verb tenses and increase their vocabulary.
Students will continue to develop their listening, writing, reading, and
speaking skills. The study of Hispanic culture is a component of the course.
Spanish III
(two semesters, 1 Credit)
Prerequisite: Spanish II
In addition to presenting further contextualized vocabulary and expressions,
level-three Spanish introduces several more advanced grammatical forms.
Class will be conducted primarily in the language. |
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| The Arts |
Art
(two semesters, 1 Credit)
This introductory course is designed to teach the elements and principles
of art while focusing on the fundamentals of perspective drawing, figure
drawing, painting and sculpture. Students learn to view art critically.
Choir
(one semester, 0.5 Credits)
Students taking choir will learn the basic fundamentals of musicianship
and music theory through singing varied literature. Students are taught
to express themselves through singing while being introduced to choral music
from many music periods.
Band
(one semester, 0.5 Credits)
Band offers students an opportunity to study a band instrument in a class
setting. Instruction is offered for flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet,
trombone, french horn, baritone, tuba, and drums. Emphasis is on learning
to read music, individual technique, and ensemble playing.
Bell Choir
(one semester, 0.5 Credits)
Reader's Theater
(one semester, 0.5 Credits)
This one semester course, open to all high school students, is a fusion
of acting, interpretation and rhetoric. Students will examine the multitude
of ways to approach the group presentation of literature through drama.
Students will learn how to analyze dramatic texts and present them in simple
or more complicated ways. Students will also have the opportunity to write
or compile their own scripts and perform them in a group format with their
classmates.
Speech
(one semester, 0.5 Credits)
This basic speech class is a traditional introduction to public address
and interpersonal communication. The class focuses on the fundamentals of
public speaking, interviewing, group discussion, and leadership skills. |
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| Physical Education |
Physical Education
(two semesters, 1 Credit)
This course provides students with the opportunity to develop an individual
level of fitness, acquire knowledge of fitness concepts, and understand
the significance of a healthy lifestyle.
Health Education
(one semester, 0.5 Credits)
This semester course is designed to include recent and reliable information
on the promotion of wellness, the reduction of health risks, the prevention
of disease, and the management of health problems. Health-related topics
include CPR, first-aid and emergency care, personal fitness, nutrition and
weight control, substance abuse, disease control, family relationships,
values, self-concept, emotional growth, and consumer awareness. |
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| Computers |
Computer Applications
(one semester, 0.5 Credits)
This semester course teaches students to key by touch and to create personal
and business documents using the computer. Microsoft Office (Word, Excel,
PowerPoint, Access) is used in formatting personal and business applications.
This course provides students with the basic concepts and skills regarding
knowledge of computer operations while utilizing computers as technology
productivity, too. |
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| Reading |
Alphabetic Phonics I
(two semesters, 1 Credit)
Prerequisite: Referral from administration
The Alphabetic Phonics Reading Program is a multi-sensory, structured
language approach based on the Orton Gillingham Method.
Alphabetic Phonics II
(two semesters, 1 Credit)
Prerequisite: Alphabetic Phonics I
This course continues the development of reading skills.
Wilson Reading System
(two semesters, 1 Credit)
Prerequisite: Referral from administration
The Wilson Reading Program is an Orton-Gillingham based reading curriculum
for decoding and spelling. |
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| Study Skills |
Study Skills I
(semester, 0.5 Credits)
This course teaches skills that make for successful students such as: test
taking skills, the SQ3R method, and organizational skills. Students are
also encouraged to use this time to seek added support in curricular areas
of need.
Driver Education
(semester, 0.5 Credits)
Driver Education is a self-paced course. This class will prepare students
to take the Alabama Driver test. Students will use a workbook, a computer
program and videos. Experience behind the wheel will have to be provided
by the parents. |
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©2008-2009 — Spring Valley School — All Rights Reserved
Spring Valley School, 605 Hagood St, Birmingham, AL 35213-2116
Telephone: (205) 423-8660 or 8661, FAX: (205) 423-8662, Web Master
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Curriculum
Graduation Requirements |
