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Upper School: Course OfferingsView 2007-2008 Curriculum Guide Computer
and Information Science Computer and Information ScienceLiza Morrison, Chair Classes in computer science give students a chance to explore programming in depth and to examine ways in which they can communicate with technology. The core curriculum ensures that all students meet minimum standards of computer literacy and elective courses allow for further study. The MPH campus operates a networked computer environment, with computer labs for Lower, Middle, and Upper School students. All classrooms have computers with high-speed Internet connections, and additional wireless connectivity is available in all academic buildings. The MPH library provides electronic access to numerous journals, newspapers, and reference materials via online database subscriptions. Computer-aided media, including digital imaging and video production/editing, is also supported.
EnglishFred Montas, Chair The desire to understand and to be understood through the written and spoken word is shared by all human beings. Although the form, history, or style in which this communication takes place will differ, the cultivation of respect for differences in the world enriches all people. Classes use a culturally diverse range of fiction, non-fiction, and poetry along with art, film, and music. Students begin to assume increasing responsibility for their learning as they make choices, design projects, work collaboratively, evaluate their work, and reflect on the connection between classroom experiences and their own lives. Writing as a tool for creative expression, communication, and analysis is emphasized in all classes. To further foster the students' powerful connection with literature and writing, the department sponsors additional learning opportunities such as interdisciplinary programming, summer reading projects, trips to theater performances, student-directed writing workshops, and the award-winning literary magazine, The Windmill.
Fine ArtLinda Sherman, Chair MPH gives students ample opportunities and encouragement to explore and discover the rich, creative wellspring of ideas and abilities they may possess. Through a wide assortment of age-appropriate experiences, students are invited to create original works in a variety of media and to become literate, lifelong appreciators of art. Art history, visiting artists, and visits to museums and workshops help to develop each student's perspective on the arts. Emphasis is always placed on respectful nurturing of individual creativity.
Health and WellnessKathy Kelly, Chair The curriculum for Health 10 is based on the philosophy that health and wellness are achieved through understanding the interactions of the various components of each person's life: occupational, social, physical, intellectual, spiritual, and emotional. Critical thinking skills are sharpened and the consequences (both negative and positive) of personal choices, decisions, and behaviors are emphasized. History and Societal StudiesPeter Wozniak, Chair Classes in this department analyze how humankind has structured society over time, giving students the chance to understand humans and the world they have created. The curriculum encourages open-minded and creative thinking; helps students develop a sense of respect and understanding for a variety of views, values, and traditions; and gives students the tools to articulate and defend their beliefs.
MathematicsDonna Meehan, Chair Classes in the mathematics curriculum are geared toward strengthening problem solving skills, developing analytic capabilities, and mastering authentic applications. Every student must complete a three-year sequence of college preparatory mathematics that integrates algebra and geometry with logic, probability, graphing, and trigonometry. Students can then pursue a variety of elective courses. Teachers blend the best of traditional pedagogy with proven contemporary teaching practices, including frequent collaborative projects and open-ended investigative activities. Interactive computer software, graphing calculators, and the Calculator-Based Lab (CBL) are used in courses when appropriate. As part of the School's "Writing for Life" initiative, students must express mathematics in clear, coherent writing in various ways in their math courses.
AC = Accelerated Performing ArtsMichele Koziara, Chair MPH students are encouraged to participate in and to enjoy music, drama and dance, starting in Prekindergarten and continuing through the Senior year and beyond. There are more than 30 performing groups ranging from string quartets and jazz ensembles to Concert Chorale and full-scale Broadway-style musical productions. MPH students excel in outside organizations such as NYSSMA, OCMEA All-County, Area All-State, Conference All-State, All-Eastern, Syracuse Children's Chorus, Syracuse Symphony Youth Orchestra, Syracuse State, and other area theater and dance groups. Dance provides an introduction to classical ballet, modern dance, and contemporary jazz. The curriculum allows students to experience the works of various choreographers and movement styles, giving them broader understanding of the art form. The creative process is cultivated, and students are encouraged to submit original choreography for the annual Student Choreography Concert. MPH students often find themselves to be both top scholars and performing artists. Our graduates continue their music, dramatic, and dance studies at prestigious colleges and universities.
Physical EducationDon Ridall, Chair Learning the skills and appreciation of a sport is an invaluable part of a student's education. Students have the option of participating in interscholastic athletics each sport season, enrolling in an MPH fitness course, or attending a dance class. Sports teams include basketball, cross-country, golf, indoor track, lacrosse, skiing, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis, track and field, and volleyball. Students who do not participate in interscholastic sports have the option of doing an independent study that must be approved by the Upper School Head and monitored by a physical education faculty member.
ScienceSusan Loedel, Chair In order to be informed members of the global community, MPH students should achieve a scientific literacy that takes into account disparate ideas and facts in order to be able to make ethical decisions while considering various points of view. Upon graduation, students should have mastered basic scientific concepts from a broad range of studies, including biology, chemistry, and physics. Opportunities are available for students to work both individually and as part of a team to solve problems, develop skills to test questions using the scientific process, and to communicate ideas. This process involves researching a question, designing and carrying out an experiment, solving problems, analyzing data, drawing conclusions, and communicating findings. Students may study areas of personal interest through independent study, Envirothon, and the Model Rocket Club.
World LanguagesWilliam O'Malley, Chair The World Language program at Manlius Pebble Hill offers the study of both classical and modern languages beginning in Pre-Kindergarten. Through the study of world languages, students develop an understanding of the structure of language and a wider perspective of the world. In classical studies, students focus on the reading and writing aspects of language in order to gain an understanding of the linguistic and cultural heritages derived from both Latin and Greek. In the study of modern languages, students develop skills in speaking, listening, reading and writing, as well as a knowledge and appreciation of another culture. The goal of the modern language program at MPH is to empower students to communicate successfully in today’s multilingual world. The World Language department offers small classes which are conducted in the target language and provide an ideal environment for language acquisition. Students experience an immersion into another culture through food, music, art, literature, publications, film, and other media. Students learn about the close link between language and culture, and gain a better understanding of their own language. Additionally, the department offers regular opportunities for travel and cultural immersion. The study of a world language is a progressive acquisition of linguistic
skills. In Sixth Grade, students begin a sequence in a world language
that may continue through the AP level and beyond. Students must complete
three World Language credits between grades 9-12, and are required
to complete through Level III of one language. Proficient students
are encouraged to advance to levels IV, V, or Advanced Placement;
other students may fulfill their third Upper School credit with another
Upper School class offered below.
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