ANDOVER HIGH SCHOOL - 2020-2021 INCOMING 9th GRADE PROGRAM OF STUDIES
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ANDOVER HIGH SCHOOL
2020-2021
INCOMING 9th GRADE
PROGRAM OF STUDIES
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Table of Content
Contacts 3
Core Values & 7 Plus H Schedule 4
Overview 5
AHS Minimum Requirements for Graduation 6
Promotion Requirements 7
Requirements for Entrance to Four Year Colleges 7
MassCore 8
Course Levels 9
Endorsement of Global Engagement 10
Online-Learning Opportunities 10
AVID 11
Community Service 12
Digital Learning 13
English 16
English Learner Education 19
Fine Arts • Performing Arts 20
Fine Arts • Visual Arts 25
Health Education 27
Mathematics and Computer Science 28
Physical Education 33
Science and Engineering 34
Social Studies 37
World Languages 41
Andover High School reserves the right to cancel any courses based on funding.
Courses without enrollment figures that satisfy at least one full section may not be offered.
Chapter 622
In compliance with Chapter 622 and Title IX, the Andover Public Schools follows the law that reads:
No person shall be excluded from or discriminated against in admission to a public school of any town or in obtaining the
advantages, privileges and course of study of such public school on account of race, color, sex, sexual identity, religion,
or national origin of such child.
Cover Art Water Color on Paper by Jenny Yu Class of 2021
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Directory
Administration
Program Coordinators
Dr. Sheldon Berman, Superintendent of
247 7010 Dr. Jorge Allen, World Language 247 5550
Schools
Adrianne Bock, Social Studies 247 5536
Mrs. Sandra Trach, Assistant Superintendent 247 7030
Joanna Ganci, English 247 5535
Mr. Philip Conrad, Principal 247 5510
Joanne Najarian, Digital Learning 247 7035
Ms. Caitlin Brown, Assistant Principal 247 5513
Katherine Richard, Math 247 5553
Mr. Scott Darlington, Assistant Principal 247 5512
Donna Ruseckas, Health and Phys. Edu 247 5508
Mr. John Norton, Assistant Principal 247 5511 Dr. Steve Sanborn, Science 247 5551
Andover High School, Main Office 247 5500 Brian Twomey 247 5558
Sean Walsh, Fine Arts 247 5568
Counseling Department
Aixa de Kelley, Dir. of Guidance 247 5549
Edward Abbott, Counselor 247 5546
Kimberly Bergey, Counselor 247 5548
Matthew Duncan Counselor 247 5547
Heather Dwyer, Counselor 247 5543
Anne-Marie Fortier, Counselor 247 5541
William Hutchins, Counselor 247 5540
Jayne Jones, Counselor 247 5538
Melissa Martin, Counselor 247 5542
Shaniel DeJesus, Registrar 247 5524
Debbie Lenzi, Secretary 247 5504
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Core Values
Andover High School is committed to providing a safe, supportive, and
equitable learning environment where students and staff alike lead by
example, demonstrating collaboration, intellectual curiosity, effective
communication, and real world application of skills. We believe that
promoting physical fitness, extracurricular activities, and student-led
initiatives cultivates active minds and fosters school pride. We believe
strongly in a challenging and diverse curriculum that encourages the
creativity, innovation and risk-taking necessary to succeed in a global
community.
ACADEMIC EXPECTATIONS FOR STUDENT LEARNING
7+ H Schedule Students at AHS are expected to…
Andover High School has a yearlong
rotating schedule that operates on an 1) listen and read actively to comprehend, interpret, and analyze
8-day cycle. Students enroll in 7 credits
meaning.
plus an H Block. Courses meet 5 times
during the 8 day rotation. Most courses 2) write and speak effectively with clarity and purpose.
are 1.0 credit yearlong classes. There
3) think critically and creatively to evaluate and solve problems.
are some elective courses that are
offered as .5 credit classes for a 4) research, examine, and synthesize information.
semester.
5) demonstrate real world applications of knowledge and skill.
6) utilize technology and media to enhance the learning process. to
H-Block
In addition to 7 academic credits, all SOCIAL EXPECTATIONS FOR STUDENT LEARNING
AHS students participate in H-Block
(Student Enrichment). H-Block is Students at AHS are expected to…
designed to personalize the students’
school experience at Andover High
School and create a strong sense of 7) act with respect, integrity, and compassion.
community. H-Block provides students 8) make informed decisions regarding the health and well-being of
with new opportunities: themselves and others.
1) Advisory— Meets Day 1 with a 9) demonstrate responsibility for their actions.
small group of students throughout
the year.
2) Academic Support—Students CIVIC EXPECTATIONS FOR STUDENT LEARNING
seeking assistance sign up for
Students at AHS are expected to…
extra time with teachers. Teachers
sign up students who are missing
assignments/need extra help.
10) cultivate their awareness of contributing to the common good.
3) Enrichment — If students are
11) advocate for positive change through active participation in the
caught up on academics, they are
democratic process.
free to sign up for a special activity
with a teacher. 12) broaden their knowledge of and respect for world cultures.
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Program of Studies
The program of studies contains information necessary to select courses for the academic school year 2020-2021. The
requirements for graduation are itemized on page 6. It is important for students and parents to be aware of their
responsibilities in course selection.
Responsibilities of Students and Parents
To be aware of all graduation requirements and to have a plan for meeting those requirements.
To review the established plan each year and check for completed graduation requirements.
To ensure that the student’s time spent at Andover High School is productive by choosing courses relevant to
his/her academic and career interests while challenging his/her abilities.
To work with the Counseling Department in addressing academic or personal/social difficulties.
To be aware of the scheduling deadlines for adding and dropping courses.
Credit Information
Andover High School students enroll in 7.0 credits of study. Students accumulate credit on their high school transcripts from
courses successfully completed during grades 9-12 only.
The Director of Guidance must approve all credit for courses taken outside Andover High School. No more than two summer
school make-up credits can be counted toward graduation requirements. Enrichment courses taken during the summer are
not eligible for credit and are not listed on the Andover High School transcript.
No credit will be given for a course previously passed but repeated to improve proficiency; the repeated course may not be
used in determining eligibility for interscholastic athletics, with the exception of upper level Physical Education courses.
Andover High School reserves the right to make any necessary changes.
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ANDOVER HIGH SCHOOL
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
Department Class of 2020 & Beyond
English 1 credit 4 credits
per academic year
Social Studies includes World History: 3 credits
Global Interactions,
The Modern World,
US History II
Mathematics 1 credit 4 credits
per academic year
Science lab sciences 3 credits
World Language 2 credits*
Physical 2 credits
Education
Health Education 1 credit
Arts: Performing/ 1.5 credits*
Visual or Digital
Learning
Electives 3.5 credits
Minimum credits 24 credits
for graduation:
*The principal may waive this graduation requirement for
students with severe language-based learning disabilities
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Promotion Requirements
Class of 2020 and beyond
Grade 9 to 10 Students must have passed 6 credits
Grade 10 to 11 Students must have passed 12 credits
Grade 11 to 12 Students must have passed 18 credits
Grade 12 to Graduation Students must have passed 24 credits & the MCAS
Massachusetts Public College and University Minimum Admissions Standards
4 Years English
4 Years Math (minimum of Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry)
3 Years Lab-based Science
2 Years Social Studies (including 1 credit in U.S. History)
2 Years Foreign Language (in the same language)
2 Years Electives
Ideal Program for Entrance to Selective Colleges
4 Years English
4 Years Math
4 Years Science
4 Years Social Studies
3-5 Years World Language
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MassCore
Massachusetts High School Program of Studies
English/Language Arts 4 Units*
Mathematics 4 Units
Including the completion of Algebra II or completion of the Integrated Math equivalent. All
students are recommended to take a math course during their senior year.
Science 3 Units of lab-based science
Coursework taken in technology/engineering may count for MassCore science credit. Note: In
June 2012, the Massachusetts Board of Higher Education (BHE) revised its admission standards to
count technology/engineering coursework based on academic standards and taken for science
credit as meeting the science admissions requirement.
History/Social Science 3 Units
Including US History and World History.
Foreign Language** 2 Units
Of the same language.
Physical Education As required by law
State law (M.G.L. c. 71,s. 3) states: “Physical education shall be taught as a required subject in all
grades for all students.”
Health can be integrated into Physical Education, science, or taught as a stand-alone course.
The Arts** 1 Unit
Additional Core Courses 5 Units
Business Education, Career and Technical Education (CTE), Health,Technology or any of the
subjects above. Note: Most students majoring in CTE will take more than 5 units in a CTE program
of study.
22 Units - Is a minimum that students should take in high school
Additional Learning Complete as many of the following as possible:
Opportunities Advanced Placement (AP); Capstone or Senior Project; Dual Enrollment courses taken for both
high school and college credit; Online courses; Service Learning; and Work-based Learning.
*A unit represents a full academic year of study or its equivalent in a subject that covers all the standards contained in a specific
Curriculum Framework.
MassCore is the recommended program of study that Massachusetts high school students need in order to be better prepared for
college and a career. Developed by a statewide advisory group from the K-12, higher education and business sectors, MassCore
maintains flexibility for students and high schools while allowing districts to set additional graduation requirements. Courses
included in MassCore should be rigorous, engaging, and based on appropriate Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks high
school level standards.
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Credit Values of Courses
In a year, the majority of academic courses will meet 5 times in an 8 day cycle and 1.0 credit will be granted per course. Courses
meeting for one semester receive .5 credit. Credits are determined by the frequency of class meetings and granted as follows:
Full year courses: 1.0 credit
Semester courses: 0.5 credit
All courses offered at Andover High School emphasize critical thinking skills and are leveled according to difficulty.
Courses are leveled as follows:
Level 7 Advanced Placement
Level 5 Enriched
Level 1 Honors Program
Level 2 Demanding College Preparatory Program
Level 3 College Preparatory Program
Unleveled Elective Courses
Advanced Placement Program
The Advanced Placement program at Andover High School is designed to offer the able and motivated student an
academically challenging classroom experience comparable to a first year college course. Students recommended for an
Advanced Placement course are expected to complete a student contract and the required summer assignments. It is the
expectation that students enrolled in Advanced Placement courses take the A.P. exam(s). Students taking the exam(s) are
responsible for paying the standard test fee.
The Dual Enrollment Program provides opportunities for Andover High School juniors and seniors to take college-level
courses and earn credit simultaneously toward high school completion and their future college degrees. The Dual Enrollment
Program eases the transition from high school to college, allows students to get a head start on their college careers, and
provides meaningful and challenging academic experiences to qualified students.
Merrimack College Program
Andover High School juniors and seniors who have shown to be capable of succeeding at college level work are eligible to
take courses at Merrimack College on a tuition-free, space-available basis. Any other fees or costs are the responsibility of
the student. Students interested in registering for fall semester classes should discuss this option with their counselor and
review the course of studies and registration materials from Merrimack College during August.
Acceptable Use Policy & Administrative Procedures
All students must complete the district’s Acceptable Use Policy & Administrative Procedures form in order to receive a
password to access the school’s computer network. Please be aware that many courses require access to the school
department’s computer network.
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Endorsement of Global Engagement
The Endorsement of Global Engagement program (EGE) is an opportunity for students to earn an official certification attached
to the Andover High School transcript stating that the student has gone beyond normal expectations to analyze, interact and
develop global competence and understanding which will lead to future success in an increasingly interconnected world.
To obtain the endorsement, rising sophomores who are admitted into the program must meet the following criteria:
Earn 4 credits in the same world language.
Take 4 additional courses from the identified academic course list.
Participate in a Global Service Learning experience outside of Andover for a minimum of 20 hours.
Participate in an Immersive Global Engagement Travel experience for a minimum of 20 hours
Fulfill the EGE e-Portfolio requirements, which includes a Capstone Research Project and a final presentation.
Virtual Courses – Online Learning Opportunities
Andover High School juniors and seniors who have demonstrated academic success have the opportunity to enroll in online
elective courses through a variety of educational institutions including Virtual High School, Keystone High School Online,
Brigham Young University Online and edX.
Virtual High School (VHS) is a non-profit organization that offers online learning opportunities to high school students
throughout the United States and the world. VHS utilizes teachers from member schools to teach courses. Because of the
large number and variety of member schools in VHS, VHS offers a wide range of classes. Many courses are available, including
Advanced Placement, honors, and standard courses spanning a variety of disciplines and interests. Juniors and seniors at
Andover High School may apply to take courses through VHS. Because VHS uses an online format, students must possess a
high degree of self-discipline and independence in order to keep up with the coursework. Interested students should peruse
the VHS catalog (http://vhslearning.org/) and see if there are courses that interest them. Some courses have grade level
restrictions, so students should make sure that they are at the appropriate level. Students may not take a VHS course that
directly duplicates a course offered at Andover High School.
Students will receive credits for VHS courses, but VHS courses will not count towards the Andover High School GPA. Students
should take the VHS on-line quiz to see if they possess the necessary skills to be successful in the program. Students who feel
that VHS is an appropriate choice, should find a course of interest in the VHS catalog, and fill out an application. Applications
are available in the Counseling Department. Once this paperwork is complete, the student should return the application to
the Director of Guidance, who will evaluate the student's application. If approved, the student will be assigned an account on
VHS and be enrolled in the course. Andover High School is allotted 25 VHS seats per semester. If there are more qualified
students interested in VHS than seats available, a lottery will be held to select students
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AVID
AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) is a college readiness elective class for highly motivated students who
plan to attend a four-year college. Students are required to take a rigorous course load (some honors and AP), with the under-
standing that they will be supported in the AVID Elective class.
Students will be supported by focusing on various strategies, which will help them to be successful such as:
organization time management
study skills reading & writing
note taking public speaking
INFORMATION ABOUT THE AVID ELECTIVE CLASS - Students must complete a weekly assignment, which requires them to
demonstrate a deeper understanding of the content from their other classes. College students visit the AVID classes each week
to support their learning and to serve as role models. Starting freshmen year, AVID students begin to learn what is required to
be accepted into a four-year college and about the college experience. Each year, students visit at least one college campus in
order to begin to consider the characteristics that will be important to them when they apply to college.
WHAT IS REQUIRED OF AN AVID STUDENT? AVID students are required to maintain an organized binder, to utilize a planner,
and to take Cornell notes in their classes. In addition, they are expected to maintain good grades and appropriate behavior. As
freshmen, AVID students are strongly encouraged to take at least two honors classes. Each progressive year of high school,
enrollment for honors and AP courses is expected to increase.
HOW TO APPLY FOR THE AVID PROGRAM? AVID applications are available in the Counseling Department. For more infor-
mation about the application process for incoming 9th graders, please contact Aixa de Kelley at (978) 247-5549.
AVID1 AVID Year 1 1.0 Credit
Prerequisite: Students will be selected through an application and interview process.
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Community Service
CS040 Peer Mentor Health Connections Unleveled .5 Credit
Peer Mentors are paired up with disabled students in the Excel Program and help facilitate instruction in the Health
Connections classroom. The Health Connections class is co-taught by a general education Health teacher and the Special
Education teacher in a reverse inclusion model. The Peer Mentors work closely with both the Health and Special Education
teachers to plan and prepare Health lessons within the reverse inclusion model and then are paired up with their disabled
peers and help facilitate instruction.
CS050 Peer Mentor Science Connections Unleveled .5 Credit
Peer Mentors are paired up with disabled students in the Excel Program and help facilitate instruction in the Science
Connections classroom. The Science Connections class is co-taught by a general education Science teacher and the Special
Education teacher in a reverse inclusion model. The Peer Mentors work closely with both the Science and Special Education
teachers to plan and prepare science lessons within the reverse inclusion model and then are paired up with their disabled
peers and help facilitate instruction.
CS060 Peer Mentor Excel/ABA Programs Unleveled .5 Credit
Students volunteer to work as Peer Mentors in either the Excel or ABA Special Education Programs. Peer Mentors are paired up
with disabled students in either the Excel or ABA Program and work under the direction of the special education teacher.
CS080 Peer Mentor Life Skills Unleveled .5 Credit
Students volunteer to work in the Life Skills Program. Peer Mentors are paired up with disabled students in the Life Skills
Program and work under the direction of the special education teacher.
Please note that community service work completed during the summer is not eligible for high school credit.
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DIGITAL LEARNING
Digital Learning courses offer insights in the Business, Technology
and Communication fields. Each course offers students opportunities to
address real world problems and a variety of business issues. Students will
apply critical thinking and communication skills in each of the classes offered.
In addition; students will enhance creativity by working individually as well as
collaboratively. In addition to providing valuable career information and
experiences, courses in Digital Learning are intended to provide transferable
skills that are useful in both personal and employment situations. The
emphasis on technology in these courses is intended to reflect transferable
skills, competencies and technological advancements, which are important
components of all career fields.
DL112 Marketing College Prep/ Level 2 .5 Credit
Introduction to Marketing is a program of instruction in merchandising and management. Students also investigate many
career opportunities and are prepared for a business administration/business management curriculum in college. Some of
the areas covered are retailing, fashion merchandising, advertising, buying and selling as well as the marketing and
distribution of goods and services. Students have the opportunity to join the DECA Business and Marketing Organization.
Students enrolled in this course work within a computer lab but are encouraged to bring their own district-approved laptop
as well. Additionally, students participating will receive a certification in Online Business Development. Students who
participate in DECA may also receive a Certificate of Excellence. Open to grades 10-12.
DL100 Entrepreneurship Unleveled .5 Credit
This course will provide students with the techniques and tools needed to start and operate their own business. Tools include
web design, financial reports, advertising campaigns, and public relations. Through peer reviews and product development,
students will utilize critical thinking, creativity, collaboration and communication to fulfill the course requirement. The focus
of this course will be to select a business/product, prepare a business plan, and learn how to manage an ongoing business.
Students will also have the opportunity to join the DECA Business and Marketing Organization. Students enrolled in this
course work within a computer lab but are encouraged to bring their own district-approved laptop. Additionally, students
participating will receive a certification in Entrepreneurship: Creating The Business. Open to grades 9-12.
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DL200 Film/Video Production Unleveled .5 Credit
This is a hands-on course designed to demonstrate the interdisciplinary nature of television as a medium for communication.
Working primarily in groups, students will learn about the principles of communication, techniques of effective audio/visual
communication and technical setup and operation of television equipment. They will also be taught to write, produce, direct,
and edit both studio and field productions for use on the Andover Channels: Educational Channel (Verizon 43/ Comcast 99) and
Public Channel (Verizon 47 / Comcast 8), also streamed live 24/7 at AndoverTV.org. The course involves after-school hours that
will be used to record various sports and school events. At the conclusion of the course students will have the opportunity to
receive a certification in Video Production. Students enrolled in this course have access to a computer lab but are encouraged
to bring their own district-approved laptop as well for scriptwriting, note taking and daily assignments. This entry level course
requires no previous production experience. Open to Grades 9-12.
DL240 Broadcast Journalism Unleveled .5 credit
Broadcast Journalism is an introductory course that will explore all aspects of television news and visual storytelling. Students
will learn the basics of reporting, videography and broadcast journalism. In this hands-on, collaborative environment, students
will produce and broadcast the AHS News program, which will air weekly to the AHS Community. Areas of study would include
producing, story selection, writing, reporting, interviewing, camera work, editing, directing, graphics, audio, lighting and much
more. This entry level course requires no previous production experience. Open to Grades 9-12.
DL400 Web Design and Development I Unleveled .5 Credit
This project-based course introduces students to the design and development of websites using HTML5 and CSS3 and
JavaScript. By the end of the course, students will know how to plan, design and code web applications from scratch.
Students will learn how to convert a design mockup into static web pages and to use Responsive Web Design Fundamentals so
their web apps look good on any device - desktop, tablets and mobile!
Throughout the course students will become proficient in the languages of HTML and CSS. In addition, the basics of JavaScript
will be covered.
Technologies, software and frameworks used last year:
Brackets code editor
Image editors such as Pixlr and Gimp
Materialize CSS front end framework based on Google’s Material Design
Some additional topics covered include:
How the Internet Works and the Internet and Society
User Interface and User Experience
Web App Performance
The course does not require any prior knowledge of HTML or web development.
Students enrolled in this course work within a computer lab but are encouraged to bring their own district-approved laptop as
well.
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DL420 Andover Innovation Design Lab Unleveled .5 credit
The AI Design Lab is an innovation lab that offers our students the skills to grapple with problems that do not yet exist.
Students in the AI Design Lab experience an “intense integrated environment characterized by ambiguous, complex, ill-
defined and unstructured problems to be addressed by rigorous brain/hand storming, extreme collaboration, prototyping,
iterating, design, and experimental methodologies.”
The AI Design Lab class operates around a semester based theme, (themes include: the classroom, myth, fun and games, play-
ground power, stuff, society, risk, etc), during which students participate in four, month-long design challenges. During the
first month of every semester, students learn essential design thinking skills utilizing IDEO and Stanford University’s Design
Thinking tool kits. Design challenges in each theme are based on an iterative model, where learners undergo a series of gradu-
ated problems under the close supervision of a faculty coach who constantly assesses and offers feedback to the students.
There is an online component to this class. Students are required to spend time posting to the discussion board on the class
website (http://andoverhighschoolstudenthelpdesk.blogspot.com). Students will also find critical information for class posted
there as well. Students are expected to visit the website daily.
Course Objectives: Through the AI Design Lab, the students will develop the following skills:
radical collaboration
immersive project-based environment
mission-critical classroom
cutting edge skills and technologies
work with ill structured problems in completely integrated, action oriented environment
Students also enhance classical skills The AI Design Lab offers students an opportunity to
focus on five process areas -
research 1. solution-finding/framing,
oral communication and presentation 2. multidisciplinary team building,
quantitative reasoning and analysis 3. ideation/brain and hand storming,
4. prototyping/testing and iterative design,
audio, visual and digital art
5. narrative/counter-narrative development.
scientific reasoning and analysis
Students will engage the course as design thinkers
tackling local and global issues and then mapping/
creating solutions.
DL300 Yearbook Publication Unleveled .5 Credit
Students enrolled in this course will work collectively to develop the Andover High School Yearbook. The course requires
outside time. Students will develop knowledge of photo, typography, color theory and online design programs. This course
will use various software to create, edit and lay out the annual yearbook. Class activities will be coordinated with the advi-
sor of the yearbook. Open to all grades. Prerequisite: Students with experience producing a yearbook, who have taken
Graphic Design or Photography, or with permission from the teacher.
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English Language Arts
The mission of the Andover High School English Department is to prepare all students to successfully participate in a modern
society in which great literature and literary traditions are valued and passed on, clear communication and successful collabo-
ration are essential to the common good, and creative endeavors are wholeheartedly supported. We offer a program that
strives to develop literate and literary citizens who can read and think critically and creatively, who can analyze literature and
text, and who are able to write with power and clarity for various purposes. Students also learn study and research strategies
and they develop communication and active listening skills. By experiencing a relevant and rigorous English curriculum, Ando-
ver High students will be well-positioned to pursue advanced studies in any area of interest.
Andover High School students are required to earn four credits of English and to take English all four years to qualify for a di-
ploma.
Our curriculum is informed by the Guiding Principles for English Language Arts and Literacy Programs as outlined in the 2017
Massachusetts Curriculum Framework for English Language Arts and Literacy. In addition to the course specific essential ques-
tions we have developed, students in grades 6-12 explore the overarching essential questions Who am I as a reader, as a writ-
er, as a speaker, and as a thinker?, Why are reading, writing, and storytelling essential components of the human experience?,
and How does English Language Arts expand our perspective?
Our courses are designed to:
● Develop thinking and language through interactive learning
● Use literature to develop student understanding of their literary heritage
● Draw on informational texts and multimedia to build academic vocabulary and content knowledge
● Develop oral language and literacy
● Emphasize writing arguments, explanatory/informative texts, and narratives
● Hold high expectations for all students
● Provide explicit skill instruction in writing
● Build on the language, experiences, knowledge and interests of students
● Nurture students’ sense of their common ground and prepares them to participate responsibly in school and civic life
● Reach out to families and the community to sustain a literate society
Summer Reading Initiative
The Andover High School English Department will continue its summer reading program to encourage all students to be active
readers during the vacation months. Our goal is to build a community of readers and to provide our students the experience of
sharing, discussing and writing about a text at the start of each semester. The summer reading assignment/choices will be
posted on the APS website. We encourage family members to participate.
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English Language Arts Course Offerings
Year Course Options Options
Freshman English 9 Honors
1 credit OR or
College Prep
Freshman World Studies Honors and College Prep in
2 credits (1 English & 1SS) same class
Full year: meets 2 periods across the cycle
Sophomore English 10 Honors
1 credit or
OR College Prep
Sophomore Modern World Studies Honors and College Prep in
2 credits (1 English & 1SS) same class
Full year: meets 2 periods across the cycle
Junior AP Language and Composition Advanced Placement, Honors
1 credit Survey of American Literature or
College Prep
OR
Junior American Studies Honors and College Prep in
2 credits (1 English & 1SS) same class
Full year: meets 2 periods across the cycle
English 12 Courses/Junior Electives
Senior Survey of British Literature Honors
1 credit Dramatic Literature or
Humanities College Prep
Literary Connections: STEM, STEAM to ESTEAM
Mirrors and Windows: Exploring Our Multiple
Identities in Texts
Contemporary Text
Dominant Ideas
Journalism: Literary Non-Fiction
Senior Capstone: Advanced Research Project
Survey of American Literature or AP Language and AP
Composition (Seniors may choose a Junior course
they did not take in Grade 11.)
Advanced Placement Junior or Senior Year Advanced Placement Language and Composition AP
1 credit
Advanced Placement Senior Year Only Advanced Placement Literature and Composition AP
1 credit
Elective Courses— do not count toward ELA credit
Sophomore, Junior, Senior Creative Writing Unleveled
1/2 credit, 1 semester
Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, Senior Newspaper Production (this course may be taken Unleveled
½ credit, 1 semester more than once)
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Leveling
The Honors/Level 1 course is designed for those who have demonstrated a high level of proficiency in both reading
and writing, who can work easily and well with abstract ideas and who can responsibly and independently manage a
rigorous academic workload. The College Prep/Level 2 course is designed for those who have demonstrated proficien-
cy in both reading and writing, who need some assistance making the leap from concrete to abstract ideas and who
benefit by a bit more structure in order to be successful with a rigorous academic workload. College Prep/Level 3 is
designed for students who require substantial accommodations or modifications in order to access the general educa-
tion curriculum. Classes offered at varied or mixed levels provide differentiated approaches to instruction, assign-
ments, assessments, and/or pacing.
Advanced Placement (AP) courses are taught at the college level and follow an approved College Board curricu-
lum. AP courses are demanding courses requiring a great deal of outside preparation. The pace is rigorous.
Grade 9
Criteria for Placement into Grade 9 Honors and College Prep
Past experience indicates that students experience greatest success when the information about class levels and the
course selection criteria below are followed:
Honors – Students should average A or A- in English Grade 8.
College Prep/Level 2 – Students should average B+ to B- in English Grade 8.
College Prep/Level 3 – Students averaging C+ or below in English Grade 8.
EN011 English 9 Honors 1 Credit
EN012 English 9 College Prep/Level 2 1 Credit
EN013 English 9 College Prep/Level 3 1 Credit
English 9 explores the essential questions Why do see the world the way we do?, How do relationships shape who we are?,
How is our identity developed, changed, influenced?, and How do universal human experiences connect us to one another?
Students will explore these questions through foundational texts like The Odyssey and Romeo and Juliet as well as through
robust text sets that provide students with voice and choice. Students will develop their skills in reading, writing, speaking and
listening, and language throughout the year while learning to work in a collaborative community of peers.
EN021 World Studies Honors 1 Eng/1 SS Credit
EN022 World Studies College Prep/Level 2 1 Eng/1 SS Credit
World Studies is a full year course which combines ninth grade English and Social Studies, and is therefore an alternative to
taking English 9 and World History: Global Interaction separately. This course will utilize an interdisciplinary, team-taught ap-
proach to studying the cultures, history, and literature from the time-period of early modern world history. Using small group
collaborative activities, oral presentations, process writing, debates, discussions, and individual assignments, the class will
engage students in a broad spectrum of educational experiences preparing them to participate responsibly in school and civic
life. Honors and College Prep are combined in the class.
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English Learner Education Program
The English Learners' (EL) Program assists multilingual students to attain linguistic and communicative competence in
English. EL courses focus on developing and strengthening academic language following the World-Class Instructional
Design Standards (WIDA) and the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks.
The EL classes are composed of three levels, EL 1-Entering/Emerging, EL 2-Developing/Expanding, and EL 3 Expanding/
Bridging. At each level, students practice all language skills in English; learn essential vocabulary and study skills to pro-
mote success in content area subjects.
*ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNER PLACEMENT HAS PREREQUISITES AND MUST GO THROUGH A PLACEMENT EXAM AND
COMPLY WITH DEPARTMENT GUIDELINES
EL102 ELL Level 1 - Entering/Emerging College Prep/Level 2 .5 Credit
This course is for students with limited or no English language proficiency. Students use reading comprehension strategies
to access beginner-level texts and develop listening/speaking skills to understand social and academic English.
EL202 ELL Level II – Developing/Expanding College Prep/Level 2 .5 Credit
This course is for students with early intermediate-intermediate English language proficiency. Students expand their aca-
demic vocabulary in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Emphasis is on academic language and the ability to communi-
cate using a variety of registers.
EL302 ELL Level III- Expanding/Bridging College Prep/Level 2 .5 Credit
This course is for students with advanced English language proficiency. The course encompasses all four domains of lan-
guage acquisition with emphasis on strengthening academic language skills, writing for a variety of purposes and audiences,
and developing vocabulary through a variety of texts.
EL402 English Writing Seminar College Prep/Level 2 .5 Credit
This class prepares former English learners for the analytical writing expected at AHS. Students learn how to summarize a
text, recognize the elements of good academic writing, evaluate evidence and analysis in expository texts, and construct
a convincing argument of their own. In the process, students increase their academic vocabulary, learn effective writing
strategies, and reach a greater understanding of American cultural values and controversies.
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Fine Arts—Performing Arts
The Performing Arts Program at Andover High School provides learning opportunities in music and drama emphasizing
ensembles and the study of the performing arts where arts skills, critical thinking, and creative problem solving are
emphasized on stage and in the classroom. Central to this creative work is utilizing one’s risk-taking, curiosity, and
collaborative abilities. The Performing Arts Department strives to build student confidence and resiliency that fundamentally
transforms students into creative learners supporting 21st Century learning skills. The curriculum focuses on developing
creative sensitivities and technical proficiency, literacy in a variety of mediums and expressions, and multiple opportunities to
develop a lifelong relationship with the arts. The department supports collaborative cross-curricular opportunities and
encourages students to communicate and advocate through the fine arts, seeing this as an important life skill that extends
into and complements all other disciplines.
Music Production 1 & 2
Music Theory
Survey of Music
Designing, Building, and Performing: Recycled Instruments
Exploring Percussion
Concert Choir/Concert Choir Honors
Chamber Choir/ Chamber Choir Honors
Orchestra/Orchestra Honors
Chamber Music for Orchestra
Concert Band/Concert Band Honors
Jazz Band
Show Choir
Foundations of Theatre
Improvisational Theatre & Advanced Acting
Theatre for Young Audiences
Film & 20th American Culture
Technical Theatre
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FA101 Concert Choir Honors 1.0 Credit
FA100 Concert Choir Unleveled 1.0 Credit
FA105 Concert Choir .5 Unleveled .5 Credit
In this course, students will study many genres of music from significant historical eras in original languages as well as musical
theatre and pop. In the process of preparing music, students develop vocal technique, aural skills, elements of expression, good
rehearsal habits and stage etiquette. They experience exploring the musical language, developing music reading skills, and
learning about various styles of music. The course includes participation in occasional community performances and concerts
with a few possible after school rehearsals. It is important to note that students must be enrolled in an ensemble for the entire
year in order to be eligible to audition for MMEA Northeast Districts or All-State festivals.
Students participating in Honors Concert Choir will enroll in the whole year and must complete one additional project, lead
school sectionals/ensemble, and participate in an Honors Recital with an original or selected solo. Students electing Concert
Choir do not need to elect the honors level until the class is in session.
FA111 Chamber Choir Honors 1.0 Credit
FA110 Chamber Choir Unleveled 1.0 Credit
In this course, students develop a high level of musicianship and proficiency in an advanced, audition-only ensemble
performance. They explore and perform a variety of choral literature, vocal techniques, and advanced sight-singing. Students
perform in both accompanied and unaccompanied performances and get the opportunity to take the lead conducting the
group. Repertoire can include popular and sacred songs in English, Italian, German, French, Latin and more. Participation is
expected in community performances, festivals, and home concerts. Travel is also a possibility as part of the group. It is
important to note that students must be enrolled in an ensemble for the entire year in order to be eligible to audition for
MMEA Northeast Districts or All-State festivals. Students participating in Honors Chamber Choir will enroll for the entire
year, and must complete one additional project, lead school sectionals/ensemble, and participate in an Honors Recital with an
original or selected solo. Students electing Chamber Choir do not need to elect the honors level until the class is in session.
FA121 Concert Band Honors 1.0 Credit
FA120 Concert Band .5 Unleveled .5 Credit
FA150 Concert Band Unleveled 1.0 Credit
This ensemble requires rehearsing and performing in a wide variety of concert band repertoire. Class time will be spent on
building a strong foundation of playing fundamentals for the individual musician and the band as a whole, as well as rehearsing
concert repertoire and sight-reading. A variety of assessments may be used to determine progress and assignments. At home
practice and participation in all concerts is required. Concerts include the Fall In-School Concert with the Orchestra, January--
Winter Concert, March--All Bands Night Concert, May--Spring Concert, and June-- graduation. Students must be enrolled at
least one semester in Concert band, Chorus, or Orchestra in order to be eligible to audition for MMEA Northeast District or
All-State festivals. Prerequisite: Successful completion of middle school band program or at least 3 years of private music
study. Students participating in Honors Concert Band will be enrolled for the entire year and must complete one additional
project, lead school sectionals/ensemble, audition for Districts, and participate in an Honors Recital with an original or selected
solo. Students electing Concert Band do not need to elect the honors level until the class is in session.
FA010 Improvisational Theatre & Unleveled .5 Credit
This course will delve deeply into the art of improvisation as well as other acting techniques. Students will begin with simple
improvisation exercises that develop imaginary object use, free association and spontaneity skills, free form improvisation,
movement improvisation, and structured improvisation. In addition, students will also work within structured scenes and
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explore different acting methodologies. The ensemble approach is strongly emphasized and the structure will force students
to invest in each other's success. Thematic work around performance genres, stereotyping character, metaphor and abstrac-
tion will be ongoing. Prerequisite: Improvisational Theatre & Advanced Acting will be open to students who have taken Foun-
dations of Theatre, or with departmental permission.
FA020 Technical Theatre Unleveled .5 Credit
Students will explore several disciplines within the field of technical theater. Utilizing the Collins Center stage, scene shop, and
technical equipment, the students will gain hands-on experience in scenery and prop construction, stage rigging, theatrical
lighting, and audio. Besides completing various projects in class, each student will work on the technical crew for at least one
show during the semester. Offered during third and fourth block only.
FA060 Music Theory Unleveled .5 Credit
Music Theory will develop your ability to recognize, understand, and describe basic materials and processes of music that are
heard or presented in a score. Achieve this goal by developing and strengthening aural skills, sight‐singing skills, written skills,
compositional skills, and analytical skills through the use of listening, performing, writing, creative, and analytical exercises.
Master the rudiments and terminology of music, including hearing and notating pitches, intervals, scales and keys, chords,
meter, and rhythm. These concepts will be addressed through listening to a wide variety of music, including not only music
from standard Western tonal repertoire, but also twentieth‐century music, jazz, popular music, and the music of non‐Western
culture tonality. The ability to read and write musical notation is fundamental to this course and it is strongly recommended
that the student have acquired at least a basic performance skillset in voice or an instrument.
FA030 Foundations of Theatre Unleveled .5 Credit
Students will be introduced to contemporary drama, comedy, and tragedy through in-class reading, discussion, and script
analysis. Projects include scene production where students exercise basic theatrical technique and collaborative play
writing. In understanding that the audience is central to the theatrical event, students will learn to appreciate the value of
giving and receiving critique. Students will learn to work in imaginative situations. A variety of approaches to drama and
theater will be illuminated. Exploratory improvisation, movement, text and vocal work are used to examine the human
condition in real and imagined scenarios. Students will develop an understanding of theatrical form and function.
FA040 Theatre for Young Audiences Unleveled .5 Credit
This course is open to all students interested in theater production (actors, designers and technicians) and is encouraged for
students whose career paths may include early childhood education. Students will investigate the special style of acting that is
needed to perform in Theater for Young Audiences. All class members will be involved in all production and performance are-
as. Topics include storytelling, improvisation, theatre games, acting, play selection, direction, settings, and costumes. Students
will collectively explore the world of Children’s Theater: its goals, tactics and audience and ultimately build and manage a tour-
ing production that will visit Andover Elementary Schools.
FA050 Film & 20th Century American Culture Unleveled .5 Credit
This course will study American culture as viewed through the lens of the first 100 years of film. Students will study films,
which most closely represent shifts in American culture and thinking throughout the 20th century. Students will examine
screenwriters, directors, producers and actors that created art from the events that shaped America during this time. We will
examine how the same work of art can communicate different messages to different people. The goal of this course is to
teach students how to critically analyze and evaluate films as cultural texts. Students will write critical film reviews to examine
both, how a film works, and how and why it affects the viewer the way it does. Students will learn how to use popular
American films to understand competing perspectives on American history, culture, and society.
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FA070 Survey of Music I Unleveled .5 Credit
This class will cover a variety of musical topics to broaden students’ knowledge and appreciation of contemporary music of to-
day and music of the past. We will study instrument families, their various ensemble groupings, and their means of sound pro-
duction. Students will develop a basic understanding of music as a means of communication by exploring topics such as music
composition, basic musical form, and musical genres. Students will survey the history of music by studying the characteristics of
and composers from the musical eras in Western music. It is geared towards students who have a genuine interest in broaden-
ing their basic knowledge of music and expanding their musical pallet. Students will be assessed through the use of quizzes, class
discussion, class notes, and reports on events/performances they have attended.
FA080 Music Production 1 Unleveled .5 Credit
In this course, students will master the creative tools and techniques required to compose, record, remix, improvise, produce
and edit your musical ideas, using Apple’s Logic software. Logic is a digital audio workstation where students can arrange pre-
recorded music or create their own piece. Music Production 1 is designed to enhance student understanding of modern music
production through individual and group work. By the end of the course, you will know how to use MIDI, audio, filters, and auto-
mation to make your own music. Students will develop skills in arranging, basic keyboarding, and advanced audio techniques in
multiple styles and genres.
FA090 Music Production 2 Unleveled .5 Credit
In this course, students will apply their foundation skills learned in Music Productions I to build upon their skills with a digital au-
dio workstation as well as focus on intermediate to advanced concepts of writing, producing, and performing music in the digital
workspace by using Logic Pro X. Students apply various software and hardware combinations to create successful club and radio
productions by expanding their understanding of creative processes. Techniques include mixing and mastering process, digital
signal processing, reverb, delay, equalization, and compression. Students will develop refined listening, evaluation, and judgment
assessments. Students will work on projects within the school building and community.
FA130 Exploring Percussion Unleveled .5 Credit
This course is open to any student interested in exploring the origins of percussion (i.e. drum circles), its uses today (i.e. Silkroad
Ensemble to Stomp), and playing as a musical ensemble. No musical experience required. The course covers the fundamentals
of playing a variety of percussion instruments, some basic music reading skills, and music history. Students will experience mak-
ing music as members of in-class ensembles of varying size. Students will study sound production on modern day instruments.
Using their gained knowledge of sound production and instrument design, the class will build their own playable instruments
from everyday objects. Students will explore music, engineering, and science as well as develop their problem solving skills in
this innovative and creative class. The students will perform as a group on their newly made instruments at the end of the se-
mester.
FA160 Marching Band Unleveled .5 Credit
This ensemble will rehearse and perform from the beginning of the school year through the weekend after Thanksgiving, with up
to three parades/performances through the remainder of the school year including the All Bands Night in March. Attendance at
football games, competitions, parades, and rehearsals is required. This group meets outside of regular school hours, including
Tuesday and Thursday afternoons/evening rehearsals, Saturday afternoon rehearsal, regular Friday night performances at foot-
ball games and weekend competitions. Students should not request this course on their Course Selection Sheet; they will be as-
signed after group selection.
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FA221 AHS Orchestra Honors 1.0 Credit
FA220 AHS Orchestra .5 Unleveled .5 Credit
FA230 AHS Orchestra Unleveled 1.0 Credit
The Andover High School Orchestra rehearses during the school day in the Andover High School Band/Orchestra Room. This
string orchestra is an advanced ensemble that performs music from a wide variety of musical styles and time periods. The
orchestra performs in the January-Winter Concert, May-All Strings Concert and Spring Concert, and at the AHS Graduation in
June. A recent addition to the group’s performance calendar is an in school fall performance with the concert band. It is
strongly recommended that students in this ensemble take private lessons. Other performance opportunities available to
students in the AHS Orchestra are Junior/Senior District Festivals, All State Orchestra, and the Travelling Chamber Strings,
which performs in the community. Honors Orchestra students will be enrolled for the entire year and must complete one
additional project, lead school sectionals/ensemble, audition for Districts, and participate in an Honors Recital with an original
or selected solo. Please note: Students must be enrolled in Concert Band, Chorus, or Orchestra for at least one semester in
order to be eligible to audition for MMEA Northeast District or All-State festivals. Students selecting Orchestra do not need
to elect the honors level until the class is in session.
FA240 Jazz Band Unleveled .5 Credit
This course, for advanced woodwind, brass, percussion, and rhythm section musicians will meet once a week after school,
chosen by audition during the month of November. The group will perform in assemblies, evening concerts and competitions
throughout the school year. Attendance and participation at all rehearsals and performances will be required to receive a
passing grade. Students should not request this course on their Course Selection Sheet; they will be assigned after group
selection.
FA250 Chamber Music for Strings Unleveled .5 Credit
This course will survey the string quartet and string orchestra repertoire. The development of independent playing and
chamber music skills will be explored. (Full instrumentation will be necessary to schedule this course.) Students should not
request this course on their Course Selection Sheet; they will be assigned after auditions.
FA260 Show Choir Unleveled .5 Credit
From Start to Finish, Back to Bassics, and Nothin’ But Treble are Andover High’s audition-only show choir groups. Students
develop musicianship and proficiency in ensemble performance, study of appropriate literature, vocal techniques, sight sing-
ing, and choreography. Repertoire includes selections from popular music, jazz standards, and Choir has a heavy schedule of
extracurricular performances throughout the year including competitions and festivals that are required. Students should not
request this course on their Course Selection Sheet; they will be assigned after group selection. Any student who wishes to
participate in Show Choir is required to enroll in one semester of Concert Choir, or be enrolled in Chamber Choir.
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Fine Arts Department – Visual Arts
The Visual Arts Program at Andover High School provides learning opportunities where arts skills, critical thinking, and creative
problem solving are emphasized. Central to this creative work is utilizing one’s risk-taking, curiosity, and collaborative abilities.
The Visual Arts Department strives to build student confidence and resiliency that fundamentally transforms students into
creative learners supporting 21st century learning skills. The curriculum focuses on developing creative sensitivities and
technical proficiency, literacy in a variety of mediums and expressions, and multiple opportunities to develop a lifelong
relationship with the arts. The department supports collaborative cross-curricular opportunities and encourages students to
communicate and advocate through the fine arts, seeing this as an important life skill that extends into and complements all
other disciplines.
Prerequisite course: Foundation Studio
Drawing
Painting
Mixed Media
Graphic Design
Design Media
Advanced Drawing & Painting
Portfolio I & II
Independent Study in Art Portfolio
Ceramics/3D Design
Advanced Ceramics
Photography I
Digital Photo/Imaging
Advanced Photography
Portfolio Photography
Ways of Seeing: Art & Visual Culture
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“Foundation Studio” is a prerequisite course for all visual art courses and must be successfully completed before enrolling
in any other Fine Art courses.
FA300 Foundation Studio Unleveled .5 Credit
Foundation Studio is an introductory course in which students will explore a variety of arts materials, tools, and techniques. It
provides a comprehensive visual foundation, which is necessary for the total development of the high school student artist. The
course will lead students through an exploration of techniques in the visual arts across a variety of mediums, both two-
dimensional and three-dimensional. Students will be introduced to various concepts and ideas from art history, engage in dis-
cussions and critiques using the language of visual art and design, explore the Elements of Art and Principles of Design, and de-
velop their own personal ideas through their art making practice. Artistic conceptual and technical development will be explored
through long term and short-term assignments as well as a variety of visual, written, and verbal responses. Grades 9-12
FA330 Mixed Media Unleveled .5 Credit
This intermediate course will offer an in-depth exploration of techniques and new ways to see, use, and interpret mixed media
in art making. Course content examines the formal Elements of Art and Principles of Design. Students will investigate a wide va-
riety of methods and materials, both traditional and non-traditional. Techniques will include collage, bookmaking, drawing,
painting, assemblage, and printmaking. Students will examine artists working with mixed media and be encouraged to develop
their personal voice through a variety of projects and assignments. Mixed media is a project-based class that gives students an
opportunity to explore a variety of art media. Prerequisite: Foundation Studio. Grades 9 (in the spring semester) or grades 10-
12.
FA340 Ceramics/3D Design Unleveled .5 Credit
Ceramics/3D Design is a course where students build on knowledge and skills developed in Foundation Studio in a series of 3-D
projects. The course focuses primarily on clay but may also explore other sculptural materials and techniques. Students will
learn pinch, coil & slab hand-building techniques in making a variety of functional and non-functional objects. They will be ex-
posed to the ceramic process, from wet clay to fired object. Class participants will be expected to produce a minimum of six pro-
jects. There is a $15 lab fee for clay. For students on free and reduced lunch fees are waived. Prerequisite: Foundation Studio.
Grades 9 (in the spring semester) or grades 10-12.
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