Upper School Course of Study

THE WALKER SCHOOL MISSION STATEMENT

Revised 2000

Our mission is to provide an excellent college preparatory education

in a nurturing environment that values personal integrity, that prizes

creativity, and that inspires the life-long love of learning.

THE BELIEFS

ADMISSION STATEMENT

The Walker School admits students of any race, color, and national or

ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally

accorded or made available to students at the School.  It does not

discriminate on the basis of race, color, or national or ethnic origin

in administration of its educational policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.

SCHOOL HISTORY

The Walker School was founded in 1957 as St. James’ Kindergarten under the direction of Father Joseph T. Walker, Rector.  In 1960, elementary grades were added, and the school became known as St. James’ Day School.  The school functioned as part of the St. James’

Episcopal Church until 1971 when it became an independent school.

The school was then moved to the Waterman Street location where it was housed for six years.  The Upper School (grades 7-12) was added

beginning with the 1975-76 school term.  In 1977, the school purchased property at the corner of Allgood Road and Cobb Parkway.  Due to growth, the Upper School was restructured in 1984 to become an Upper School with grades 9-12 and a separate Middle School with grades 6-8.

Today, The Walker School is a non-profit, independent, co-educational

day school, governed by a self-perpetuating Board of Trustees.  Walker's curriculum is college preparatory and is not designed to offer programs for children with special learning needs.  The school serves motivated students of average to superior ability in pre-kindergarten through twelfth grade.

UPPER SCHOOL STATEMENT

The programs in the Upper School stress academic challenge, individual excellence, and personal integrity.  The entire curriculum is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to be successful at even the most challenging of college environments.  Students discover the benefits of a strong liberal arts background in Advanced Placement, Honors, standard, and elective courses.

In an era where numbers such as grade point averages or standardized test sGPAs often become standards of measure, we stress the importance of individual achievement.  We believe that through meeting personal challenges our students discover the "lifelong love of learning" that is vital to an informed society.  A goal sought by every member of the Upper School faculty is that a student should experience the joy of excellence for its own sake rather than for the grade. 

Through our Honor Code, we believe that the Upper School provides an environment in which students learn to value honesty and to accept

responsibility for accomplishments, for actions, and for the well being

of others.

HONOR CODE

It is dishonorable for any Walker student to lie, cheat, or steal or for

any member of the Walker community to tolerate such behavior on

the part of a Walker student. 

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

A total of twenty-one and one half  (21.5) units is needed for graduation with the following distribution:

Course Type, Grades, and Averages

Courses are separated into two groups, those receiving a numerical grade and are computed into the Cumulative Average and those receiving a letter grade that is not computed into the average.  Both course types and corresponding grades are reflected on a student's transcript.  In this catalog GPA courses are marked by an asterisk (*) and non-GPA courses are marked by the number sign (#).

A student's academic average reflects work completed in the Upper

School and is shown two different ways: the Cumulative Average

is based on a 0-100 scale, and the Cumulative Grade Point Average is based on the 4.0 scale.  A student's Cumulative Average is determined by the sum of the end of course grades for all GPA courses divided by the total number of like units attempted.   A one-semester course receives ½ unit; therefore one half of the semester grade is figured into the total Cumulative Average.  The numerical grade earned in a course is shown on the transcript, but for calculation purposes ten points are added to the grade of an AP class and five points for an Honors class.  GPA courses completed in Middle School receive credit toward meeting departmental requirements, but neither the grade nor the credit earned is used to compute the Cumulative Average.

The Cumulative Grade Point Average is determined in a similar

fashion except course averages are converted to a 4.0 scale with

90-100 equaling 4.0, 80-89 equaling 3.0, and 70-79 equaling 2.0.  

A grade below 70 receives zero (0) points, but the course is included

in the total GPA units attempted. When computing the Grade Point

Average, one quality point is added to the grade of an AP course

and .5 added to the grade of an Honors course.  When converting

from Numerical to Grade Point, .25 is added for any passing grade

ending in 7, 8, or 9.

The Principal and Department Chair must approve all summer work to

be taken to make up a credit or to accelerate in a subject area. 

A student’s transcript reports only courses taken and grades earned

at The Walker School. 

COURSE ADD/DROP POLICY

If a student wishes to drop a course without a notation being made on

the transcript, the student must do so prior to the tenth class meeting. 

If a course is dropped later than this, the transcript indicates whether

the student dropped “passing” (WP) or dropped “failing” (WF), unless the Department Chair and Principal believe such a designation is inappropriate.  Adding or dropping after the beginning of a semester for a semester long course or the beginning of the school year for a yearlong courses requires a formal process.  A student must obtain a form from the office to be signed by the teachers involved, by the student’s parents, and by the Principal.

Credit for a course will be awarded only upon the completion of the course.  Semester courses earn one-half (1/2) credit and a yearlong course earns one (1) credit.  To receive credit for a course, a student must have completed all written work whether or not the work earns a minimum passing grade.

Students enrolled in Advanced Placement courses should note that they may drop the course during the first two weeks, at the end of the semester, or, after consultation with the teacher, at the recommendation of the Department Chair.

ACADEMIC SUPPORT

The Principal, Academic Dean, and Upper School Counselor meet weekly to review the academic status of all Upper School students.  Those having academic difficulty based on quarter grades or written teacher comments are scheduled to meet with the Counselor or Dean to determine where difficulties may lie and what strategies may provide success.  An academic plan is devised and student progress is charted through required weekly comments from teachers.  The Counselor or Dean will be in contact with the parents to arrange a meeting if deemed necessary. 

Continued academic difficulties may result in a student being placed on either Academic Warning or Academic Probation for a specific length of time.  A student will be on Academic Warning for earning an F for the nine weeks or placed on Academic Probation if an F is earned in any course for the semester.  Poor academic performance also may result in the loss of a student’s privilege to participate in athletics or other extracurricular activities.  Deferral of a re-enrollment contract or a request to withdraw from school may occur after a student is on Academic Probation for two semesters or there are other documented concerns.

STATEMENT on ADVANCED PLACEMENT COURSES

Given the academic rigor, the need for academic sophistication, and the desire for students to pursue academic excellence regardless of grade adjustments, the Walker Upper School sets forth the following guidelines for student enrollment in Advanced Placement (AP) courses.   Our intent is to encourage students to take an appropriate course load and to help students and families resist academic pressure to take AP courses when it is not wise to do so.  Students carefully should consider enrolling in an AP course since the curriculum requires more time and commitment than a non-AP course.  Obligations to athletics, clubs, hobbies, work, and family should weigh in the decision to take Advanced Placement courses.

VALEDICTORIAN and SALUTATORIAN RECOGNITION

To be recognized as either valedictorian or salutatorian or to graduate with honors, a student must be a member of the Senior Class and have attended Walker three years.  Grades earned in GPA courses taken at Walker are used to determine these awards with final averages based on grades earned through the third quarter of the senior year.

EARLY GRADUATION from WALKER

A student wishing to be considered for early graduation must meet the following criteria:

1)     make the request for early graduation to the Principal in the spring of the junior year.

2)     be able to accumulate twenty-one and one half (21.5) credit units.

3)     must be in the process of successfully completing at least six (6) Advanced Placement courses with the following distribution: two (2) in English, one (1) in math, two (2) in Social Studies, and one (1) in Science.

SPECIAL TESTING GUIDELINES

The College Board and Educational Testing Services have established the following guidelines for students to receive additional time on any national testing (PSAT, SAT I, SAT II, and AP exams). 

A student must

To receive consideration for additional time on all national testing, a student meeting these guidelines must file a College Board Student with a Disabilities Special Student Eligibility form with the regular test application.  These forms are available in the Counseling Office and must be submitted six weeks prior to published deadlines.  A student with a documented disability not receiving accommodations for school based testing may be eligible for an additional-timed SAT test.  An appeal for this consideration must be filed with the College Board

six weeks prior to the test date.  Please contact Neil Clark, Dean of College Counseling and Guidance, with additional questions.

TYPICAL SCHEDULES

Students must be enrolled in seven (7) courses each semester with a

minimum of four (4) of those being GPA courses. 

ENGLISH
The English curriculum prepares students for the rigors of college level reading and writing while fostering a love of literature. The program grounds students in the classics, introduces them to the best of contemporary writers, and uses the analysis of literature and the study of language to develop cognitive skills at every level. Although classroom discussion forms the primary mode of instruction, teachers stress oral and written communication skills. Students at all levels write in a variety of styles and genres and practice the skills needed to use a wide range of research tools. Starting in the ninth grade, all students write in-class, timed essays to sharpen their analytical skills while preparing them for the format of exams and standardized testing.
Students mature as thinkers and writers at different rates, and their interests in literature and writing change over the years. Consequently, the English Department strives to provide opportunities for those students who show marked potential at any level to take advanced courses. Teacher recommendations, grades, and standardized test scores are all components in recommending students for an advanced course.

Requirements: Four (4) units, one required each year, are needed for graduation.

Summer Reading: Summer reading is an integral part of the English curriculum and supports our desire to “inspire the lifelong love of learning.” The books for each grade level form part of the curriculum and serve as the basis for instruction in the first weeks of school. Typically two books are chosen for each grade level with additional selections for Advanced Placement courses. The summer reading handout, accessible online, outlines the requisite writing assignment for each grade level and includes due dates.

Honors: Honors classes are designed for motivated students with good reading comprehension skills who can meet the challenge of an accelerated pace. Students are expected to be sound writers with a solid grasp of mechanics. The tenth grade curriculum is supplemented with correlative essays and additional texts.

Advanced Placement: The curriculums require excellent reading comprehension, mature analytical thinking, good writing skills, and diligent study. The courses are open to academically qualified students who have demonstrated the maturity, the responsibility, and the commitment necessary to meet the demands of a college level course. Although colleges may award English credit to a student for only one of the AP courses, students may takes both courses and write both exams—one in the junior year and one in the senior year.

English 9 * The Journey
Designed to lead students in developing skills in reading, in discussion, and in writing, the curriculum explores the various genres using works that explore the archetypal journey. Currently, the students study the journeys presented in Ender’s Game, The Bean Trees, The Odyssey, The House on Mango Street, Catcher in the Rye, and Macbeth. Students explore the art of poetry using the Perrine text, Sound and Sense. Writing assignments, both formal and informal, will stress methods of organization, the development and support of a thesis statement, and the skills of rewriting, editing, and proofreading. All ninth graders write a formal research paper for their English and Biology class. Vocabulary study continues throughout the year by examining words in context and with the use of a vocabulary textbook. Students who demonstrate superior language arts skills in English 9 may be recommended for Honors English 10.

English 10 and Honors English 10 * Freedom and Human Dignity
The tenth grade curriculum seeks to heighten the level of students' literary awareness and to broaden both their social vision and analytical skills. To accomplish these objectives, students read such works as Montana 1948, Antigone, One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich, My Name is Asher Lev, Ellen Foster, and Frankenstein. Other aspects of social justice and human dignity are examined through short stories and essays. Emphasis is placed on learning the terminology for talking and writing about literature. The writing assignments serve to develop a sophisticated understanding of how sentences are constructed to create lucid and interesting writing. Students continue the study of poetry with the Perrine text, Sound and Sense. A structured approach to vocabulary helps students in their reading, writing, and their preparation for standardized tests. Honors moves at a faster pace with more emphasis on student initiative.

English 11 and Honors English 11 * The American Experience
The curriculum, serving as a complement to the study of American history, introduces the student to the major writers and ideas that constitute American literature. Works such as The Scarlet Letter, Death of a Salesman, The Great Gatsby, Their Eyes Were Watching God, and As I Lay Dying generate class discussion concerning historical events, American culture, and universal themes. Students read poetry, short stories, and essays from major literary, social, religious, and cultural movements in our country’s history. Students write literary analysis and criticism on a more sophisticated level and examine topics such as symbolism, form and function, and point of view. The importance of understanding vocabulary in context is stressed while text-based study continues. A research project is part of the eleventh grade curriculum. With advance permission, students in Honors English 11 may sit for the AP exam in May.

English 11 American Studies: Advanced Placement English Literature and Composition *
Offered in the junior year and taught in conjunction with Advanced Placement U.S. History, Advanced Placement Literature and Composition explores our culture and values through the careful reading and critical analysis of American literature. Students read poetry, short stories, and essays from major literary, social, religious, and cultural movements in our country’s history. The curriculum includes work such as The Scarlet Letter, The Great Gatsby, As I Lay Dying, Slaughterhouse Five, and Death of a Salesman, as well as more contemporary works like All the Pretty Horses. In addition, students are exposed to a variety of poems and essays reflecting American thought and culture. All students are expected to take the AP exam in May.

English 12 and Honors English 12 * Self and Society
As reading selections are more challenging and provocative, the senior curriculum requires that students deal with advanced material at a mature level. Students explore literature in depth through such works as The Canterbury Tales, The Lord of the Flies, Brave New World, and One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest. Drama selections have included Oedipus Rex and Hamlet. Readings may also include selections from the Old and New Testament that reflect the relationship between man and society. Non-fiction selections from The Art of the Personal Essay provide materials for argumentative essays as students develop the skills to be competent in writing both about literature and about personal experiences. In the fall, special emphasis is placed on writing essays for college applications. Honors classes move at a faster pace with more emphasis on student initiative. In these classes, the reading assignments may be longer and more challenging in both content and style. With advance permission, students in the Honors class may sit for the Advanced Placement Literature and Composition exam in May.

English 12 Advanced Placement English Language and Composition *
Advanced Placement Language and Composition seeks to prepare students to become skilled readers in a variety of genres, periods, disciplines, and rhetorical contexts and is similar in scope, design, and intellectual challenge to freshmen or sophomore level writing courses offered by competitive colleges. Besides providing students continuous practice in writing essays of many types and lengths, the readings offer wide perspectives of periods and areas of interest. Works are selected to show students how authors from different periods and disciplines suit their rhetorical choices to particular aims. The curriculum includes mostly nonfiction works such as The Omnivore’s Dilemma, Musicphilia, and The Best American Essays. All students are expected to take the Advanced Placement exam in May.

MATHEMATICS
As our society becomes more technologically advanced, the logical thinking and problem solving skills developed through mathematics become more important for its members to possess. With this in mind, students are encouraged to take as much mathematics as possible during their high school years. Our curriculum is designed to develop students’ problem solving abilities (including when and how to use technology), to teach students to correctly apply mathematics in their lives, and to provide each student with a solid foundation for future study.

Requirements: Four (4) units of math are required which must include Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II. One unit may be awarded for the successful completion of one of the above courses taken in eighth grade. A student must earn one unit credit during the junior or senior year.

MA1000 Algebra I *
In this course students learn terminology basic to the further study of mathematics. They develop skill and understanding in solving equations and inequalities in one and two variables, in graphing on number lines and the Cartesian plane, and in working with polynomials. Students are expected to master operations with variables and the real numbers including radical and exponential expressions. The concept of functions is introduced and explored.
Prerequisite: Competency with pre-Algebra topics as determined by testing.

MA2000 Geometry *
This course concentrates on traditional topics of Euclidean geometry and introduces the formal study of logic and proof. Basic terminology, measurement, inductive and deductive reasoning, transformations of figures, plane figures, three-dimensional figures, vectors, and simple trigonometry are introduced and studied. A review of Algebra I skills is interwoven throughout the course.
Prerequisite: Algebra I

MA200H Honors Geometry *
Although the same basic material is covered in Honors Geometry as in Geometry, the pace of the class is faster, the problems are more challenging, and more time is devoted to proof and trigonometry. The review and practice of skills developed in Algebra II is included.
Prerequisite: Algebra II or departmental approval

MA2100 Algebra II *
In Algebra II students study equations and inequalities in one and two variables, variation, systems of equations and inequalities, polynomials, quadratic relationships, matrices and graphing techniques. Modeling, exponential and logarithmic functions, series, and combinations are also studied.
Prerequisite: Algebra I

MA210H Honors Algebra II *
Although the same basic material is covered in Honors Algebra II as in Algebra II, the pace of the class is faster, the problems are more challenging, and the emphasis of the course is to provide a strong basis for Honors Pre-calculus. Only students planning to take a traditional, rigorous calculus course should take Honors Algebra II.
Prerequisite: Algebra I and departmental approval

MA2200 Functions, Statistics and Trigonometry (FST) *
This course is available to students who have completed Algebra II but are not yet ready for Honors Pre-calculus. Topics consist of algebraic and transcendental functions including trigonometry and the unit circle function and discrete topics such as series, sequences, and probability. Mastery of functions, operations with the real numbers, simplifying algebraic expressions, and solving equations is expected. Applications of concepts and the appropriate use of technology are emphasized throughout the course.
Prerequisites: Geometry and Algebra II

MA2300 Pre-calculus *
This course is designed for seniors who do not plan to take a traditional, rigorous calculus course in college. Emphasis is placed on the mastery of functions, rational expressions, and trigonometry. Significant time is spent on modeling through technology and applying math to life situations.
Prerequisite: Functions, Statistics, and Trigonometry or departmental approval

MA230H Honors Pre-calculus *
This course gives a traditional comprehensive treatment of trigonometry; logarithmic and exponential functions; polynomial, rational, and algebraic functions; analytic geometry with conic sections; polar and parametric equations; vectors; and sequences and series. Limits are introduced and studied as time permits. The goal of Honors Precalculus is to prepare students for the study of a traditional, rigorous calculus course in high school or in college.
Prerequisites: Honors Algebra II and departmental approval

MA2400 Advanced Placement Statistics *
AP Statistics uses data, meaning numbers within a context, to answer questions. The course covers how to collect, analyze and draw conclusions from data with techniques ranging from recognizing patterns in graphical displays to using statistical inference to test hypotheses. There is a heavy emphasis on application to real-world questions; therefore, the course combines assessment through AP-style tests with hands-on projects. Because technology is used extensively, graphing calculators are required.
Prerequisites: Algebra II and departmental approval

MA2500 Advanced Placement Calculus AB *
The College Board’s Advanced Placement syllabus for Calculus AB is the backbone of this course. Beginning with a review of functions, trigonometry, and analytical geometry, the course continues with limits, curve sketching, and comprehensive treatment of derivatives and integrals. Requirements for success in Advanced Placement Calculus include mastery of manipulating rational expressions and trigonometric relationships, self-discipline, time for out-of-class work, and the ability to think abstractly.
Prerequisites: Honors Pre-calculus and departmental approval

MA2600 Advanced Placement Calculus BC *
This course is also based on the College Board’s Advanced Placement syllabus for Calculus BC. In addition to all the topics covered in the AB syllabus, the following topics are studied: parametric, polar, and vector functions; applications of integrals; and polynomial approximations and series. In order to cover all required topics, the pace of this course is quicker than that of an AB Calculus course. Requirements for success in Advanced Placement Calculus include mastery of manipulating rational expressions and trigonometric relationships, self-discipline, time for out-of-class work, and the ability to think abstractly.
Prerequisites: Honors Pre-calculus and departmental approval

MA2700 Advanced Topics *
Providing an overview of mathematical topics normally not included in a high school curriculum yet fundamental to any university level math program, this course is geared toward the strong math student who may be considering a math related major in college. One of the primary goals of the course is to help students develop the ability to think abstractly to form well-constructed arguments. This is done through the study of propositional and predicate logic, direct proof and inductive reasoning, and discrete structures such as sets, relations, functions, groups and graphs. In addition, the course ends with a hands-on unit during which time students assemble robots from the circuit board up.
Prerequisite: Because of the advanced nature of the topics discussed, students must have completed or be currently enrolled in one of the AP Calculus courses. Students who find enjoyment in exploring new mathematical topics are ideal candidates for this course.

MA2950 Basic Accounting (2nd semester) #
This course introduces accounting principles and double entry recording of transactions in journals and accounts. Basic financial statements are analyzed with an understanding of revenues, expenses, assets, liabilities, and adjusting and closing entries.

FOREIGN LANGUAGES
The study of a foreign language and knowledge of foreign cultures are crucial to helping individuals understand others and themselves, thereby helping to promote understanding among the nations of the world. With all classes taught primarily in the target language, classes are designed for individuals to develop their communication skills and intellectual capabilities. It is important that high school students graduate with an understanding of the culture and proficiency in both the written and spoken language. To achieve this, a minimum of three years must be dedicated to the study of the language. A fourth or fifth year enables students to study the language in more detail and to analyze and understand more deeply the literary works.

Requirements: Students must complete level three (III) of French, German, Latin, or Spanish. One unit is awarded for the completion of the first year of a foreign language in eighth grade.

FL1100 French I *
Designed to introduce students to the French language and culture, this course develops a student’s communication skills in the areas of speaking, reading, and writing. Vocabulary and grammatical structures are reinforced through the use of a video program that accompanies the textbook.

FL1200 French II *
In addition to reviewing and amplifying the material covered in French I, there is continued emphasis on auditory and oral skills through the use of role-playing assignments and the presentation of short skits. New vocabulary and grammatical structures are introduced and writing skills are refined.
Prerequisite: French I

FL1300 French III *
Synthesizing and refining the language skills acquired in French I and II, the student is introduced to French history and literature. Writing skills are developed further through expository and creative writing assignments, and speaking skills are honed in class discussion of texts and lessons on French history, geography and civilization. Included are an in-depth review of all verb tenses, the French pronoun system, and other advanced points of French grammar. Phonetic study with the goal of improving pronunciation and comprehension is an integral part of the French III course. At the end of the year, students read an adapted version of a work of French literature.
Prerequisite: French II

FL140H Honors French IV *
An advanced grammar course designed to further prepare serious students for either college work or the Advanced Placement course offered in the fifth year program. Students continue to develop speaking, reading, and writing skills with increased emphasis on oral comprehension skills. During the year students read adapted versions of two examples of 19th and 20th century French literature.
Prerequisites: French III and departmental approval

FL1500 Advanced Placement French Language *
In preparation to take the Advanced Placement test, students polish their language and literary appreciation skills, read authentic examples of French literature, and study the literary classics that correspond to works read by intermediate college students. French is the sole language of instruction.
Prerequisite: Departmental approval

FL1600 Advanced Placement French Literature *
This course prepares students to take the Advanced Placement exam in Literature. The curriculum is based on the required reading list of great works of French literature and includes three novels, three plays, and a selection of poetry. Careful reading, analysis, and discussion are key components as students study the process of literary analysis and criticism. Weekly papers, oral presentations, leading class discussions, and projects help students improve their analytical skills and presentation of ideas.
Prerequisite: Departmental approval

FL2100 German I *
Level I provides students a cultural introduction to German speaking countries and a solid understanding of the language within its cultural context. The skills of reading, listening, and writing in the target language are given equal emphasis with the oral component. An integrated video program provides further practice in the areas of active vocabulary and structure. All German I students take Level 1 of the Association of Teachers of German Examination.

FL2200 German II *
In the second year, the material covered in German I is reviewed with new vocabulary and grammatical structures introduced. The reading of short stories, role-playing exercises, and the presentation of short skits reinforce the emphasis on the spoken language. All students take Level 2 of the AATG Examination which tests the skills of writing, reading, and listening comprehension.
Prerequisite: German I

FL2300 German III *
The material presented in German I and II is expanded in the third year of study. With increased emphasis on written composition and listening comprehension, students complete the study of major verb tenses and the use of all cases. Many aspects of German life and culture are studied, and students frequently use the Internet for research. There is continued emphasis on oral work as well as the writing and presentation of skits in class. All students take Level 3 of the AATG Examination.
Prerequisite: German II

FL240H Honors German IV*
Students not ready for the challenge of an AP program are provided the opportunity to continue their study of the German language and culture. Subject matter may parallel the AP course but assignments will differ. All students take Level 4 of the AATG Examination.
Prerequisites: German III and departmental approval

FL2500 Advanced Placement German *
In a rigorous preparation for the Advanced Placement examination, there is an intensive review of grammar and continual practice in oral work and listening comprehension. Students read literary selections, newspapers, and magazine articles to expand their knowledge of German history and culture. All students take Level 4 of the AATG Examination.
Prerequisites: German III and departmental approval

FL2600 German Conversation #
This one semester course for those who have completed AP German is offered based on interest and is designed to allow students to continue the study and use of the language in a more conversational setting. Readings and discussions will enhance vocabulary and understanding of the culture.

FL3100 Latin I *
Level I consists of Latin vocabulary, SAT word derivatives, Latin expressions or abbreviations used in English, basic Latin grammar, Greek and Roman Mythology, Roman history and culture, daily sight translations, and the Greek alphabet.

FL3200 Latin II *
The curriculum is the second half of a two-year sequential course that develops the skills needed to read Latin literature. Grammar and vocabulary are taught in context and as an aid to reading comprehension. Latin vocabulary is expanded and a student’s English vocabulary is increased. The study of Roman culture, Roman history, and classical mythology also are included. Ecce Romani serves as the text.
Prerequisite: Latin I

FL3300 Latin III *
The primary focus of this course is on the prose literature of the late Republic and early Empire. The readings are concentrated on Roman history and grammar is taught in the context of the readings. Vocabulary focuses on the expansion of both Latin and English (SAT) vocabulary. All students take the Prose section of the National Latin Exam.
Prerequisite: Latin II

FL340H Honors Latin IV *
Focusing on the study of well-known Roman authors, including Pliny, Cicero, Ovid, and Vergil, students discover how to read, understand, and appreciate a variety of literary selections. Emphasis is on the recognition of literary terms and styles, on increasing Latin vocabulary, and examining the cultural, political, and historical background of the readings. All students take the National Latin Exam.
Prerequisite: Latin III

FL3500 Advanced Placement Latin *
AP is the study of Vergil’s Aeneid. Read in its entirety in the English translation, the lines translated are those designated by the AP curriculum. The course includes vocabulary study, mythology, and history related to the Aeneid and the development of skills needed to read poetry in dactylic hexameter. All students take the AP exam.
Prerequisite: Latin IV and departmental approval

FL4100 Spanish I *
The introductory course in Spanish is designed to offer students a view of the Hispanic culture and to allow them to begin speaking, writing, and understanding the language. Oral and written practice of grammatical concepts as well as the text, visual aids, games, and computer activities provide students with the opportunity to become comfortable with the target language. Students are encouraged to use Spanish at every opportunity when expressing themselves in class.

FL4200 Spanish II *
Level II reviews material covered in Spanish I and introduces students to new vocabulary and grammatical concepts. Class time is spent practicing conversational and reading skills, and drilling grammatical structures. Role-playing, short writing assignments, slides, films, newspapers, and class discussions supplement the text.
Prerequisite: Spanish I

FL4300 Spanish III *
With the target language used exclusively in class, third year study reinforces and expands on the knowledge of the Spanish language and culture through reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Class activities emphasize the finer points of Spanish grammar as well as the study of all verb tenses. Written assignments require the transition from short paragraphs to longer compositions.
Prerequisite: Spanish II

FL440H Honors Spanish IV *
This course will further a student’s knowledge of advanced grammar topics through review and readings from literary and non-literary sources as well as from discussions and writings on selected cultural and contemporary topics. Students wishing to continue the study of Spanish at the AP level will be well prepared.
Prerequisite: Departmental approval

FL4500 Advanced Placement Spanish *
The curriculum encompasses an intensive grammar review and development driven by the thematic study of selected cultural and contemporary topics. Preparation for the AP exam is stressed throughout the year and the language experience is enhanced through discussions, debates, film, papers and oral presentations on the topics studied. Students will enjoy this advanced level of study of the Spanish language.
Prerequisite: Departmental approval

The Hispanic Studies program is composed of four one-semester culture/conversation courses open to any student who has completed Spanish III. The courses will be offered in pairs in alternate years and any of the four may be taken concurrently with Honors Spanish IV or AP Spanish. Each course will earn one half (1/2) credit.

FL4600 The Hidden Treasures – Central and South America*
This course focuses on Central and South American culture, language, and geography. The history of the region (Pre-Colombian to present) is studied through the analysis of literature and film and conversation is practiced using the textbook series Revista.

FL4620 Suspiros de Espana – Spain*
The Whispers of Spain is a study of Spanish history, culture, geography, and language with an emphasis on the Spanish Civil War. Films and film analysis will be the tools used to discuss and study Contemporary Spain. Conversation is practiced using the textbook series Revista.

FL4640 Salsa Latina – Latinos/Hispanos in the United States*
Contributions of Latinos and Hispanics to American society will be the focus of study and discussion. Conversation is practiced using the textbook series Revista.

FL4650 de Agua y Madera – Of Water and Wood*
This is a study of the Caribbean Spanish speaking countries. The geography, history, language, culture and music from Pre-Colombian societies to present will be discussed. Emphasis will be placed on the cultural contributions of music, art, and food. Conversation is practiced using the textbook series Revista.

HISTORY AND SOCIAL SCIENCES
Because we believe “that an understanding of the past is fundamental to understanding the present,” the curriculum is designed so students will understand their place in the modern world as well the forces that have shaped their own and other societies. A critical study of history promotes not only knowledge, but also clear analytical thinking and writing skills. A variety of courses is offered which gives students the opportunity for a broad knowledge in the Social Sciences.

Requirements: Three (3) units of history are needed for graduation with one year of World History, to be taken in grades nine or ten, and U.S. History in eleventh or twelfth grade. While not required, students seeking admission to colleges in the Georgia university system are encouraged to complete a semester of government and a semester of economics.

SS1000 Early World History *
Early World History is the entry-level course designed for ninth grade students but may be taken by sophomores new to Walker. Although some attention is given to other societies as well, the major emphasis of the curriculum is on the civilizations of Europe, China, Africa, and Southwest Asia. Study begins with the hunting and gathering societies of pre-recorded history and ends with 17th Century Europe.
Students learn the salient characteristics of classical civilizations as they study major themes such as technological innovation, the evolution of social classes, the growth of bureaucracy, the structure and types of government, environmental transformation, and gender roles. Although emphasis is placed on the uniqueness of each culture, students also come to understand the cultural, economic and political links that run across different civilizations and connect them with other societies. The major religions and/or world-views of Buddhism, Christianity, Confucianism, Hinduism, Islam and Judaism are studied from the point of view of believers. Throughout the course attention is paid to the cultural achievements of the past, especially art, architecture, music and literature.

SS2000 Recent World History *
Designed for sophomores, the curriculum continues the themes developed in the Early World course while emphasizing the evolution of the institution of the modern state in Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. The principal developments in world and regional history from the 17th Century to the present form the primary focus of study. Independent thinking and interpretation of thematic developments including: the rise of nationalism, industrialization and the expansion of the modern world economy, evolution of philosophy, art, and music, and technological advancement are stressed throughout the year. Students will study and understand the links between past historical developments and present-day political, economic, and social conditions.

SS2500 Advanced Placement World History *
A college level course, the curriculum relies heavily on a college text, primary source documents, and outside readings. Students should have a well-developed ability to construct and evaluate arguments as well as handle a diversity of information and interpretations of historical events. Special emphasis is given to historical writing through essay and document-based questions. The time period covered includes the Age of Exploration to the present day. Special attention is given to the interactions of peoples and cultures, global trade networks, and the comparison of civilizations over time.
Prerequisite: Departmental approval

SS3000 United States History *
The approach to the study of United Stated history is of the traditional chronological style beginning with the pre-Columbian civilizations of North America and ending at the beginning of the 21st Century. Students are made aware of the unique position of the United States in world history with its combination of European, African, and Native American heritage; democratic form of government; variety of population; and abundant natural resources. Usually taken during the junior year, this course is required for graduation.

SS3500 Advanced Placement United States History *
This in-depth college level course is open to qualified juniors or seniors and fulfills the US History graduation requirement. The curriculum is designed to provide students with the factual knowledge and analytical skills necessary to deal critically with the problems and ideas in American History. The interplay of four major forces is a major theme of the course; the combination of European, African and Native American heritage; the democratic form of government; the variety of population, and the availability and use of abundant natural resources.
Prerequisite: Departmental approval

SS3550 American Studies – Advanced Placement United States History *
Taught in conjunction with Advanced Placement English Literature and Composition, this in-depth college level course is open to qualified juniors or seniors and fulfills the US History graduation requirement. The curriculum is designed to provide students with the factual knowledge and analytical skills necessary to deal critically with the problems and ideas in American History. In conjunction with the English class, the course explores the central question “What does it mean to be American?” Components of that exploration include history and historiography, literature, theology, art and architecture, philosophy, music, science, folklore, ethnic studies, anthropology, political science, psychology, marketing, ecology, communications, education, gender studies, ethnic studies, and pop culture. An integral part of the course is a year-long project to develop an original paper, film, or podcast to answer, in some small part, the central question.
Prerequisite: Departmental approval

SS4000 United States Government and Politics (1st or 2nd semester) *
This semester course usually is completed in the senior year but may be taken earlier with departmental permission. The primary focus is on the three branches of American government and their interaction with each other. Institutional, societal and Constitutional influences on the three branches of government will also be studied as well as how and why changes have occurred. Students planning to attend a college or university in Georgia strongly are advised to take this course.

SS4100 Comparative Government (1st semester) *
Students will address key concepts and basic constructions in general political theory to serve as a framework for the comparison of different political systems. The course will illustrate the diversity of political life, show available institutional alternatives, explain differences in processes and policy outcomes, and analyze the importance of global political and economic changes. With a strong focus on the core countries of Great Britain, France, Russia, China, Nigeria, Egypt, and Iran, the emphasis will be on the application of real world, real-time events in current publications to the abstract concepts presented in the text.

SS4150 Advanced Placement Comparative Government (1st semester) *
With the same basic curriculum as SS4100 Comparative Government, students may elect to do additional coursework and earn AP recognition. Students choosing this option are required to sit for the AP exam in May.
Prerequisite: Departmental approval

SS4500 Advanced Placement United States Government and Politics (2nd semester) *
This one-semester college-level course, open to qualified juniors and seniors, focuses on the nature and development of the American political system over the past two hundred years and how it continues to operate at present. Examined in detail are the principal processes and institutions through which the U.S. political system functions, as well as some of the public policies these institutions implement.
Prerequisite: Department approval

SS4600 Economics (1st or 2nd semester) *
Students are introduced to fundamental economic concepts such as scarcity, opportunity costs, and comparative advantage. The course begins with the study of the functions performed by an economic system and the way the tools of supply and demand can be used to analyze a market economy. Microeconomics and Macroeconomics concepts will be covered in order to provide students with the foundation for a thorough understanding of a college-level economics course. Usually taken the senior year, this semester course may be taken earlier with departmental permission.

SS4610 Advanced Placement Microeconomics (1st semester) *
Microeconomics is the study of how individuals and firms make decisions. Topics include the structure of markets [monopoly, perfect competition, etc.], the role of government in the economy, and using demand and supply analysis to determine market prices and the allocation of goods. This semester-long college level course is open to qualified juniors and seniors.
Prerequisite: Departmental approval

SS4620 Advanced Placement Macroeconomics (2nd semester) *
The curriculum is designed to give students a thorough understanding of the principles of economics that apply to a system as a whole. Particular emphasis is placed on the study of national income and price determination in order to develop a student’s familiarity with economic performance measures, economic growth, and international economics. This semester-long college level course is open to qualified juniors and seniors.
Prerequisite: Departmental approval

SS4700 Advanced Placement European History *
In addition to the factual narrative, the goals of the program are to develop in students an understanding of some of the principal themes in modern European history as well as an ability to analyze historical evidence. Areas of study include the intellectual and cultural, the political and diplomatic, as well as the social and economic influences on the history of Europe. The course begins with the decline of the Middle Ages (circa 14th Century) and ends in the late 1990’s. Students become familiar with the unique developments in each of the larger European countries as well as events and movements which cut across national boundaries.
Prerequisite: Departmental approval

SS5110/SS5120 History and the Media (1st and 2nd semesters) *
This course examines American and World History, culture, and society through the medium of film. The primary text for this course will be a plethora of films from the U.S., U.K., Australia, New Zealand, Afghanistan, and Germany covering the 1930s to the 2000s. Students will critically analyze how modern moviemakers manipulate the facts for the sake of entertainment and how this shapes popular perception of the past. The over-arching goal of this course is to teach students the skills needed to critically analyze and evaluate films as the cultural texts they are, ones that reflect our understanding of the world, past and present. That historical films should never be taken as the final word in what happened throughout time should be a given, but this is far too often not the case. Students will be asked to rethink the relationships between “reality” and “representation” and to re-conceptualize the boundaries between history and film.

SS5250 Advanced Placement Psychology *
As stated by the College Board, the goal of the course is to “introduce students to the systematic and scientific study of the behavior and mental processes of human beings and other animals.” As the course progresses, students are exposed to the psychological facts, principles, and phenomena associated with each of the major sub-fields within psychology. Students study the core concepts and theories, learn the basic skills of research, and recognize psychological principles when encountered in every day situations.

SS5410 Seminar in Modern Culture I: Legends and Theories (1st semester) *
This course, offered to students at the sophomore level and above, looks at the epistemology, analysis, principles, and themes in popular folklore, especially as they apply to urban legends and common or obscure conspiracy theories. Beginning as a teacher-centered course, it develops into a seminar course with students doing research and teaching much of the time.

SS5520 Seminar in Modern Culture II: Contemporary History (2nd semester) *
This is a seminar course open to juniors and seniors which examines issues in contemporary culture in the historical context that created them. One part history, one part public speaking, and one part psychology, this course is a survey of the entire gamut of offerings in the History and Social Sciences Department.
Prerequisite: World History and US History

SS5600 Modern Latin American History (1st semester) *
Providing an introduction to the political, social, and economic history of Latin America from 1825 to the present day, this course offers a detailed study of Mexico, Guatemala, Nicaragua, The Dominican Republic, Chile, and Argentina. Students will read literature that focuses on and highlights the themes of dictatorship, immigration, and magic realism.

SCIENCE
Students will take Biology as freshmen and then, depending on their math level, take Physics, Chemistry or Honors Chemistry as a sophomore. Juniors and seniors have a variety of course options available to fulfill their requirement. Advanced Placement courses in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics are available for qualified students who have demonstrated a strong interest in the subject. Students are encouraged to take physics and chemistry as many liberal art colleges look for these sciences in a student’s background. The department recommends that a student interested in science, engineering, technical, or medical careers take four years of science.

Requirements: Students must take three (3) units of science in grades 9-12, including at least two (2) units of laboratory courses. Physical Science taken in the eighth grade satisfies the Physical Science requirement of the University System of Georgia but carries no credit toward graduation.

SC1000 Biology *
This is an introductory course that focuses on the interdependence of living things, stressing scientific inquiry and application. Specific topics covered include biochemistry, cell structure and function, metabolism, DNA and human genetics, evolution, public health, and ecology. An interdisciplinary project with the English Department is a major part of the second semester. Students learn through labs, lecture, projects and various technology applications.

SC1500 Advanced Placement Biology */ SC150L Lab
This is a rigorous, college level course that focuses on life’s organizational hierarchy, emergent properties, cellular basis, unity in diversity, ecological relationships, and inheritance of biological information. Through laboratory experiences, demonstrations, and lecture, emphasis is placed on the correlation of form and the function of living things. A common core theme of evolution underscores the dynamic nature of life.
Prerequisites: Chemistry, a superior performance in biology, and Department approval

SC2000 Chemistry *
In this hands-on introduction to modern chemistry, students focus on the applications of a variety of topics such as the structure of matter, the periodic table, bonding, nomenclature, stoichiometry, gas laws, equilibrium, kinetics, acid-base reactions, electrochemistry, and thermodynamics. Emphasis will be placed on laboratory technique, projects, and problem solving.
Prerequisites: Biology and enrollment in Algebra II

SC200H Honors Chemistry *
This course provides a rigorous lab-based introduction to chemistry. Students will study the historical and theoretical nature of the structure of matter, the periodic table, bonding, nomenclature, stoichiometry, gas laws, equilibrium, kinetics, acid-base reactions, electrochemistry, and thermodynamics. Emphasis will be placed on laboratory technique, projects, and problem solving.
Prerequisites: Biology and enrollment in Honors Algebra II or higher level math course

SC2500 Advanced Placement Chemistry */SC250L Lab
A rigorous curriculum offers classroom discussions based on college level texts, demonstrations, and experiments. Topics include gas behaviors, reaction kinetics, homogeneous and heterogeneous equilibria, the laws of thermodynamics, redox reactions and electrochemistry, colligative properties, bonding and structure, and the roles of functional groups in organic chemistry. The laboratory program includes analytical procedures that utilize ion exchange, pH titration, and spectrophotometry. Small-scale experiments enable students to perform hundreds of chemical reactions during the course.
Prerequisites: Superior performance in chemistry and departmental approval

SC3000 Physics *
This is an introductory course stressing concepts rather than the mathematical interpretation of those concepts. Hands-on lab investigation is emphasized to familiarize students with procedures, data collection, and analysis. Topics include mechanics, work, power, energy, harmonic motion, wave behavior, sound, light and optics, magnetism, and electricity. Students enrolled in Algebra II or a higher level math may not take this course.
Prerequisite: Algebra I

SC300H Honors Physics *
This is a math based introductory course in classical and modern physics. Classroom discussion, problem solving, and extensive hands-on lab work help students develop an analytical approach to physical phenomena. Topics include mechanics (kinematics and dynamics), principles of energy, wave behavior, sound, light, optics, electricity, and magnetism.
Prerequisites: Chemistry and completion of or concurrent enrollment in Pre-calculus.

SC3500 Advanced Placement Physics */SC350L Lab
This rigorous college level course includes the intensive study of classical mechanics, heat and thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, waves and optics, quantum theory, and modern physics. The course is highly lab oriented and utilizes procedures based on real-time data collection and analysis. While non-calculus problem solving is emphasized, a high level of math proficiency is required.
Prerequisites: Superior performance in either Honors Physics or AP Chemistry, enrollment in or completion of AP Calculus, and departmental approval

SC4100 Zoology (1st semester) *
Through lecture, laboratory exercises, and a detailed independent study of one animal, students explore the structural diversity of living organisms and their scientific names. In this study of invertebrates, the relationships between them, the places and situations in which they occur, and their impact upon man, each other, and their environment are discussed.

SC4200 Botany (2nd semester) *
The curriculum is designed to offer an introductory survey of important groups of plants, algae, fungi, and motile single-celled photosynthetic forms. Through lecture, laboratory exercises, and a detailed independent study of one plant, students explore the structural diversity of living organisms, their scientific names, their habitats and distribution, and their interactions with each other, the environment, and other organisms.

SC5000 Anatomy and Physiology *
Designed to introduce students to the complexity of the human body, this course explores the relationships between the structure (anatomy) with the functional mechanisms (physiology). Students also will gain an enhanced understanding of many diseases and how they affect the human body. Lab may include a dissection. To give proper treatment to the detail and complexity of the topics covered, course expectations are extensive.
Prerequisite: Strong performance in both biology and chemistry

SC6000 Geology (1st semester)*
An introductory course, the curriculum allows the student to examine the dynamic evolution of the earth as well as the materials and processes that make up and shape its surface. Key topics include rocks and minerals, plate tectonics, streams and drainage, weathering, groundwater, glaciers, wind action and deserts, oceans, volcanoes, earthquakes, and energy resources. Labs, slides, and video presentations