Options
2 periods/week (Some are semester courses, others run for a year)
The Options program aims to broaden a student's educational experience by giving her the opportunity to learn a variety of new skills, including pratical ones, and so encourage a love of learning. Many Options courses also develop group skills and cooperative learning, and many encourage the creative use of the imagination.
Students are required to choose two of the semester courses or one of the year courses. These mini-courses are offered twice a week and are worth a ½ credit for the two semesters.
- Active Option
- AI Foundations
- Debate
- Film Making
- First Aid
- Introduction to Computer Aided Design
- Introduction to Computer Programming in Java
- Jazz Dance
- Journalism
- Mandarin for Beginners
- Mathematical Diversions
- Musical Theatre
- Photography
- Robotics
- SAT English
- SAT Math
- Speech and Drama
- Vocal Music
- Wheel Throwing
- Writer's Lab
- Yearbook
Active Option
AI Foundations
One Semester - ¼ credit (Semester 1 only)
This course focuses on the foundational concepts behind AI. Students will need to use code to interact with data and apply the concepts they are learning. Students are assumed to have some basic familiarity with coding, but not expected to be proficient. Students should also have reasonably solid mathematical understanding.
The first part of the course will be a mini-Python programming bootcamp that reviews basic Python coding and data structures. Once students are familiar with the basics of the Python programming language we will address classical AI problems such as constraint satisfaction, classification, pathfinding algorithms, and simple AI agents in video games.
Debate
One Semester - ¼ Credit (G9 and G10 only)
Debate Option class explores far-ranging compelling contemporary topics that challenge our reasoning skills and foster stronger debate skills and techniques. We debate in teams and run class-based debate sessions throughout the semester. Simply stated, we enjoy lively debates of relevant topics facing our world today. Minimum 6 students.
Film Making
One Semester - ¼ Credit
n this option, students create one or more film(s) using various available equipment that will be presented to an audience. Final video projects can have the aim to submit to an external film contest or to be used for a different internal purpose. It is expected that all students will follow copyright rules and regulations as they create their films, and resources outlining these regulations will also be explored during the planning process. A project is created either as a pair or individually; filming and/or animation can be done either inside or outside of class time. A final film is edited and sound and special effects are added as needed for the final project. The students who choose to film live action have the chance to learn and practice filming techniques and operation of video editing equipment, including an introduction to the 'green screen' as an excellent resource for some projects. For those that choose to utilize other media, this is a fine opportunity for them to tap into their own creativity, often utilizing animation or digital design.
The class size is limited to 10 students.
First Aid
One Semester - ¼ Credit (Semester 2 only)
This course will enable students to acquire First Aid skills or further develop techniques and knowledge learned in previous First Aid courses offered in Middle School. The American Red Cross First Aid course materials will be used. In addition, we will discuss and explore preventive measures for health problems. Simple cooking classes may be included in order to demonstrate healthy eating. The class size is limited to 12 students.
Introduction to Computer Aided Design
One Semester - ¼ Credit (Semester 2 only)
This course has been designed to give students basic skills that will be of benefit if they are planning to study architecture, interior design, or engineering at college. We will focus on learning the basics of software used for computer aided design (CAD). This course is technical, requiring precision, measuring, and manipulating challenging computer software.
The class size is limited to 10 students.
Introduction to Computer Programming in Java
One Semester - ¼ Credit (Semester 2 only)
This is a one semester course designed for students to learn the basics of computer programming using the Java programming language. The main purpose of this course is to prepare students for AP Computer Science A by teaching them basic coding concepts, data types, data structures, and control structures such as conditionals and loops, among other topics. Students are expected to take this course once in the previous two years before taking AP Computer Science A. That said, any high school students of any grade level who are interested in computer science are encouraged and welcome to take the course.
Jazz Dance
One Semester - ¼ credit
In the Jazz Dance options course, students will experience creative movement and freedom of expression while gaining knowledge of dance technique, body awareness and confidence building. Students do not need to have prior dance experience but students with dance experience will be able to further their skills. Jazz Dance class will use music from different genres for musical awareness and creativity. Dance class will consist of basic technical movements, stretching and warm up routines. Students will be required to wear proper clothing for stretch and movement. Also students should bring liquid nourishment such as water or a sports drink for replenishment. Students will be expected to use their individual creativity and ideas for dance movement and choreography. Students can expect to develop themselves with their creativity, confidence and self-control through the fine art of dance movement and performance. Jazz Dance options class will be limited to 12 students each semester.
Journalism
One year – ½ credit
Students become part of a team to create and promote a dynamic online publication for the wider ISSH community. Students will learn the basics of the journalistic process through researching, interviewing, reporting, and editing articles, editorials, and reviews for the publication. Students will be involved in designing the site using the many options available through the site host, School Newspapers Online. SNO will also connect students to a worldwide network of student journalists and offer opportunities for students to earn recognition for their work. Although completing work for the publication requires additional time outside the weekly Options class, Journalism is a challenging and rewarding course for students interested in writing, media, and leadership.
Mandarin for Beginners
One year - ½ Credit
This class is designed for enthusiastic non-native speakers interested in studying Mandarin Chinese and culture. Class time will be spent with an emphasis on speaking, individualized tone correction as well as integrating fun activities such as group/partner conversations and games to further reinforce language skills. In the first semester we will build up strong pronunciation skills as we learn essential vocabulary (numbers, time, colors, foods). Students will gain confidence as they master basic sentence structures with accurate pronunciation. Students will also learn how to order and describe food, while being introduced to Chinese culture and cuisine. In the second semester we will cover simple daily-life topics such as shopping, and asking directions, etc. Field trips to a Chinese Restaurant and Chinese Store will give students chances to utilize what they have learned in real life. An introduction to Chinese poetry and other cultural aspects will be given if time permits. Upon completing this course students will have built a strong foundation, preparing them for future studies in Chinese.
The class size is limited to 12 students.
Mathematical Diversions
One Semester - ¼ credit (Semester 2 only)
Mathematics can be learned and enjoyed in many different forms. This course is designed for everyone to have fun while stretching her logical thinking skills. Activities will include various logic puzzles, cryptanalysis, ideas from probability and statistics, number games, as well as PSAT and SAT questions.
Musical Theatre
One semester - ¼ credit (Semester 2 only)
In the Musical Theatre Option course, students will mount a full musical theatre production with acting, singing, dancing, costuming, set design, and lighting. Students do not need to audition to be a part of this class, however, an audition will be held during the first week of class in order to cast the musical.
Once students have committed to the course, they have committed to the entire semester of study.
Students may not change courses because they are unhappy with the part they were assigned. Students may enroll in the class as performers and/or crew with the director’s approval however, the role of the crew may vary depending on the musical chosen and the number of cast.
Students can expect to fine tune their auditioning skills, develop as performers/ public speakers and experience what it’s like to create a theatre production in a collaborative environment.
*Please note that the process and the product may vary depending on the situation of the global pandemic.
Photography
One Semester - ¼ Credit (Semester 1 only)
This is for students who would like to learn more about using their camera settings and the foundations of composition in order to produce quality photographs. We will also use Photoshop to manipulate some of our images. We will begin with weekly shooting assignments and shift toward individual final projects; a body of photographs exploring a topic of your choice. It is essential that students who choose this option have their own DSLR (Digital Single-Lens Reflex) camera. The class size is limited to 15 students.
Robotics
2 periods per week - One Year - ½ Credit
High School Robotics introduces real-world engineering, STEM skills, and the design process engineers use to innovate and create solutions. In the first lessons, students will learn the basics of motors, drivetrains, mechanisms, structures, competition robots, tools, and safety with the VEX Robotics Competition (VRC) platform. Students will add controllers, sensors, and batteries by coding the robot's “brain” with VEXcode for autonomous challenges. Students will also apply key concepts like gear ratios, center-of-gravity, weight, materials, friction, torque, and acceleration.
Robotics teams include builders, drivers, coders, researchers, project managers, and game strategists. Students will collaborate as a team to share ideas, prototype designs, build and test robot designs, and maintain a team engineering notebook to track the team’s progress and improve their results. Students can test their designs and skills by competing in local robotics tournaments.
SAT English
One Semester - ¼ Credit (Semester 1 – G9, G10, G11, G12, Semester 2 – G9, G10, G11)
All grade 9, 10 and 11 students at Sacred Heart sit the PSAT. Almost all high school students then go on to sit the SAT during grade 11 and/or 12. This options course prepares students for the tests by focusing on honing critical reading and writing skills. Through practice sections of the test, students will learn how to read effectively, expand vocabulary and develop skills for the editing of writing.
SAT Math
One Semester - ¼ Credit (Semester 1 only, G10 Enriched, G11 and G12)
Many of the universities our students attend consider their scores on the SAT as one of the criteria for admission. All our students take the PSAT, the preliminary versions of this test in grades 9, 10 and 11; grade 11 and 12 students usually take the SAT in the spring of their grade 11 year and/or in grade 12. In this Options course, students are given the opportunity to practice for the SAT Mathematics test using Khan Academy, the official online resource for College Board tests, SAT practice tests from the College Board, and other specially designed resources. In addition, test-taking strategies are illustrated and discussed..
Speech and Drama
One Semester - ¼ credit (Semester 1 only)
This Option class will provide opportunities for collaboration in a creative environment, and gain the skills to build confidence on stage/public speaking. The first half of the course involves students creating performances for the Kanto Plain Speech Festival (within the 3 categories: Multiple, Dramatic Duo, or Humorous). The students will also be attending the annual Drama Festival which will be a stellar annual opportunity for students to meet and work with industry professionals and students from other international schools to devise a short performance.
The second half of the course will involve preparing a performance for the students and faculty which parents and guardians are invited to watch.
Vocal Music
One Semester - ¼ credit (Semester 1 only)
The Vocal Music Option course offers an opportunity for students to experience individual vocal coaching, covering all areas of vocal technique and repertoire. The main goal of the course is for the students to improve their singing skills, become a more confident performer and expand their understanding of vocal technique.
Students at any singing level can take this course but must be in the HS Choir to be enrolled in this course. If a student is currently not in HS Choir, they can join at the beginning of the new school year.
The main emphasis of this course is preparation for the KPASS Vocal Solo and Ensemble Festival that takes place in November. The students will choose, prepare and perform the repertoire with the guidance of Ms. Horn.
This course can also be used to prepare and record vocal literature for college music auditions.
If a student is a pianist, they may also enroll in this course as an accompanist for the singers. Students must see the HS Choir director for approval to take the course as an accompanist. If a student is unable to find an accompanist, school will provide one but only for Vocal Solo and Ensemble Festival, Solo and Ensemble Recital and one practice. Students are encouraged to find a friend in school who can accompany them as that will allow them to be more prepared for the Vocal Solo and Ensemble Festival.
If a student wishes to participate in the Vocal Solo and Ensemble Festival, they must do one of the following:
- Take the Vocal Music Options Course
- Enroll in private study with a teacher of their choice.
- Learn the music on their own (The HS Choir director will help with selection of a piece and will meet with the student one more time closer to the festival to check progress.)
Wheel Throwing
One Semester - ¼ credit
No experience is needed, we will start out learning how to throw on the potter's wheel. As you gain confidence and skills we will start to work on finding your artistic voice through a variety of surface decoration techniques, altering wheel-thrown shapes, and combining hand-building and sculpture to create work that is unique to each individual.
The class size is limited to 12 students.
Writer's Lab
One Semester - ¼ credit
Students will work to strengthen reading comprehension, expand their vocabulary and build skills in composing and editing sentences and paragraphs, helping them to express their ideas more clearly and correctly. Ultimately, the skills reinforced in Writers' Lab will support achievement in other subject areas that require a large volume of reading and a high level of writing, particularly English and Social Studies. Homework may be assigned if necessary for a student’s progress. Entry into this course is by teacher recommendation only.Yearbook
One year – ½ credit (Grade 10, 11&12 only)
The yearbook, which is published towards the end of every school year, is a chronicle of school life – of significant events and activities that take place at Sacred Heart throughout the year. Students who join the Yearbook Staff record these moments of life at Sacred Heart and create an account that will be cherished by students, parents, teachers, and others for a lifetime.
It’s a big job, and a big responsibility that requires a serious commitment on the part of each Staff member. Throughout the two semesters, Staff will take and collect photographs, design page layouts using available software, and write and edit for a variety of audiences and purposes. In order to meet deadlines, Staff will work independently, in pairs, and as part of a team. They may interact with all members of the Sacred Heart community, including students, parents, teachers, administrators, and outside experts such as photographers. As part of the production process, they will learn time management, collaboration, leadership, and task delegation. Students who join in Grade 11 are expected to renew for a second year in Grade 12. Seniors who started as a yearbook Staff member in Grade 11 are eligible to run for positions as Yearbook Editors – a role which carries great respect and responsibility in the school community. G10 may choose this option on a space available basis.