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UPSD New Course Proposals
Modern & Short Fiction
Grade Level: Academic 12
Length of Course: Semester
Course Credit: 1.0 Credit
The Short Fiction course will explore short stories and short novels (novellas) on a number of levels, including elements of fiction, various techniques of writing fiction, and themes. Theme, the broadest and most open for interpretation, will be a major focus; it may involve applications to authors, applications to issues of the times (for authentic connections), applications of various methods of literary analysis, and perhaps, the most common, applications to the human condition. In addition, the course will look at how literary form may affect or reflect presentation or perception of theme.
Film as Literature
Grade: 12th grade
Course Length: Semester
Course Credit: 1.0 CreditsFilm Production
Grades: 9-12
Course Length: Semester
Course Credit: .5 credits
You are that person that can’t just a watch a movie. If the title of this course has peaked your interest, keep reading. From basic Cinematography to set lighting, lens choices, camera choices and so many other cinematic concepts- you are starting Film School in this course.
Students write, direct and produce original short films, as well as perform the various roles in film production from acting to props management and set design. This is a performance-based class and students should be comfortable with computer and video technology, as well as writing. Students enrolled in this course will also have the chance to enter all of their films into local and regional film festivals in which the instructor has already guided dozens of students to top honors and scholarships for their work.
Sports Broadcasting
Grades: 9-12
Course Length: Semester
Course Credit: .5
Are you ready to produce professional level Sports videos for TV and Digital Media?
Then, this is the course to get you started!
From Camcorders to DSLR cameras and even your own Smartphone and tablet, you are about to dive in head first into the world of Sports Broadcasting and Sports Video Production!
In this class, the first of its kind in PA*, we shoot sports and entertaining videos on and around the campus as well as use popular videos and films to teach the concepts that help create them. Then, we teach you how to use the same to create your own. This is a performance-based class and students should be comfortable with computer and video technology, as well as writing.
Students enrolled in this course will also have the chance to enter all of their Sports feature stories, documentaries ad play-by-play broadcasts into local and regional film festivals in which the instructor has already guided dozens of students to top honors and scholarships for their work.
Principles of Engineering (Working Title)
Grade: 10-12
Course Length: Semester
Course Credit:1.0 credit
In this course students will be using scientific and engineering concepts to learn about the various areas of engineering. The may include: mechanical, civil, and bioengineering. Students will then use these science concepts and the engineering process to complete engineering challenges in each of these areas. Examples of these might include mousetrap cars, creating prosthetic limbs, and creating water treatment/stormwater management systems.
Introduction to Forensics
Grade: 10-12
Course Length: Semester
Course Credit: 1.0 credit
AP Physics 1
Grade: 11-12
Course Length: Semester
Course Credit: 1.0 credit
AP Physics 1 is a continuation of mechanical concepts taught in Honors Physics I (acceleration, forces, trajectory, momentum, energy, and rotational motion). It will also explore the concepts of electrostatics and electricity, electromagnetic waves, sound, and simple harmonic motion. These are all concepts necessary for students to take the AP Physics 1 exam. With the time left, students will explore buoyancy, thermodynamics, optics, and some advanced electronics principles. Inquiry, hands-on learning, labs, and projects will be an integral part of the course.
AP Studio Art
Grade: 11-12
Course Length: Year
Course Credit: 1.0 credits
AP Studio Art is designed for highly motivated students who are seriously interested in the study of art. It is recommended that students first take a drawing and painting course. AP Studio Art is not based on a written exam; instead, students submit portfolios for evaluation at the end of the school year. The AP Studio Art Program consists of three portfolios to choose from: 2-D Design, 3-D Design and Drawing. Students will explore their own skills while working with the teacher to develop a portfolio with three areas of concern: quality, concentration and breadth.