HIGH SCHOOL ELECTIVES:

CCA offers a great variety of High School electives.
See Electives

CCA High School Elective Course Descriptions

Course offerings are subject to change and subject to run based on interest level of students. All courses are full-year courses unless otherwise specified. 

ENGLISH ELECTIVES:

  • AP English Language* (11th grade)

AP English Language and Composition looks at more the “how” the writer achieved what he or she achieved instead of merely looking at the “why.”  The emphasis of the class is rhetorical analysis.  This is when a critical thinker looks at a passage of text and identifies rhetorical devices an author uses and to what impact it brings to the author’s purpose.  Major devices studied and practiced are identifying tone, diction, syntax, and detail.  Analyzing pieces of nonfiction literature from the last few centuries is also an integral part of the course.  The course also looks at crafting student writing by practicing using sources to support arguments and students effectively communicating to the world around them through their writing and their speaking.

  • AP English Literature * (12th grade)

AP English Literature and Composition is an introductory college level literary analysis course. Students cultivate their understanding of literature through reading and analyzing texts as they explore concepts like character, setting, structure, perspective, figurative language, and literary analysis in the context of literary works.

  • Creative Writing (9th-12th grade)

Writers welcome! This course will look at all kinds of ways authors express themselves in a variety of traditional and experimental ways. This course will focus in and allow students more time to practice their written expression than ELA class can provide. Students will practice with poetic forms, narrative style, and nonfiction writing such as articles and reviews. The course will look at authors like Ray Bradbury, ee cummings, and Malcolm Gladwell as to all the various ways one is able to express themselves on the page. Waiting to read you!

  • Ethnic-American Literature (10th-12th grade)

The immigrant experience in America affects each of her citizens, regardless of when his/her people migrated here. It is a conversation that should be ongoing and reflect currents in Christian thinking and cultural mores. European, Asian, African, South American… we will hear directly from those who came to America, in their own words.  

SOCIAL STUDIES ELECTIVES:

  • AP European History* (10th and 11th grade) (offered 2021-22)

AP Euro is a challenging course that is meant to be the equivalent of a freshman college course and can earn students college credit.  It is a full-year survey of European history from the end of the Middle Ages to recent history- approximately 1450 to 20th century.  Solid reading and writing skills, along with a willingness to devote considerable time to homework and study, are necessary to succeed.  Emphasis is placed on critical thinking skills, essay writing, interpretation of original documents, and historiography.  Students will also prepare for the Regents Global test in June.

  • AP US History * (10th and 11th grade) (offered 2020-21)

AP US History is a challenging course that is meant to be the equivalent of a freshman college course and can earn students college credit.  It is a full-year survey of American history covering the native inhabitants of the American continents to the present- approximately 1491 to September 11, 2001.  Solid reading and writing skills, along with a willingness to devote considerable time to homework and study, are necessary to succeed.  Emphasis is placed on critical thinking skills, essay writing, interpretation of original documents, and historiography.  Students will also prepare for the Regents United States history test in June.

  • AP Government* (12th grade)

This AP course is designed to teach students to analyze the nature of government and the political processes that shape policy in the United States. We will examine Constitutional Foundations, Governmental Institutions, Civil Rights and Liberties, Political Parties, Political Beliefs, and how these affect the implementation of public policy.  This is a Political Science course… it is not a History course.  While we do look back throughout history to examine the evolution of our government, we primarily look at HOW government systems work.

  • World Geography (best for 9th-10th grade)

The World Geography course will familiarize students with the world using five geographic themes: location, place, human/environmental interaction, movement, regions.  The course will compare and contrast these themes across all continents, apply geographic skills and knowledge to different regions of the world, integrate critical thinking and historical processes, and promote problem solving.  Instruction will include concepts and principles from history, economics, geography, civics, and the humanities. (½ year course)

MATH ELECTIVES:

  • Intro to Algebra II (teacher recommendation)

Intro to Algebra II is designed only for students who struggle in Geometry and the teacher could see the need for a slower paced course.  This course is teacher recommended and parent approved. Intro to Algebra II covers topics from Algebra II at a slower pace.  This would allow the student to take Algebra 2 during their senior year if they wanted. 

  • Pre-Calculus

This course combines review of algebra, geometry, and functions into a prerequisite course for calculus. The course focuses on the mastery of critical skills and students will be introduced to a set of skills necessary for success in subsequent mathematics courses. Concepts covered include linear, quadratic, exponential, logarithmic, radical, polynomial, and rational functions; systems of equations; and conic sections. Other topics are trigonometric functions, inverse trigonometric functions, application of trig, vectors, polar coordinates, etc. (Prerequisite: Algebra II)

  • AP Calculus AB*

This is a college-level calculus course designed to meet the Advanced Placement curricular requirements for Calculus AB (equivalent to a one-semester college course). The major topics of this course are limits, derivatives, integrals, the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus, application of differential and integral calculus. We will investigate and analyze course topics using equations, graphs, tables, and words, with particular emphasis on conceptual understanding of calculus. Applications to real world phenomena comprise of solid geometry, related rates, optimization, chemistry (growth and decay models), and physics (particle motion), etc. Survey: Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus

  • Survey of Calculus*

The main objective of this course is to facilitate students’ proficiency in calculus computations. The three main tools for analyzing and describing the behavior of functions utilized include limits, derivatives, and integrals. The course comprises of elementary differential and integral calculus. Topics include functions, limits, derivatives, techniques of differentiation, and integrals involving algebraic, exponential, and logarithmic functions. Applications include marginal analysis, curve sketching, and optimization, and extensions to multidimensional calculus. Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus

  • College Math 1 & 2*

These courses focus on subject-test assessments that evaluate students’ knowledge gained from three years of college-preparatory mathematics. The two courses (or tests) primarily differ in the breadth and depth of topics. Math 1 (or Level 1) covers algebraic expressions, coordinate geometry, data analysis, and number sequences. Math 2 (or Level 2) covers the same topics in addition to logarithmic functions and the law of cosines and sines. The course is particularly advantageous to students who have excelled in Algebra 1, Geometry, and Algebra 2; and provides leverage for students interested in pursuing math-based programs of study. Prerequisite: Algebra II

  • Business Math (12th grade)

This course introduces students to the mathematical concepts and applications necessary for successful business careers. Topics covered include profit and loss, statistics, simple and compound interest, interest rates, loans, finance charges, cash discounts, commissions, payroll, tax deductions, tax laws, depreciation, net present value, annuities, statistics, and graphs. Students complete a comprehensive business plan at the end of the course based on real property values.

MUSIC ELECTIVES:

  • Chorus (9th-12th grade)

Students in grades 9-12 may participate in High School Chorus.  Students will learn proper vocal technique and how to sight sing. The Chorus performs in the Christmas and spring concerts annually.  There are generally a few performances off-campus as well. Students in Chorus are eligible to participate in ECMEA and NYSSMA opportunities including All County, Area All State, and Conference All State.  

  • Concert Band (9th-12th grade)

Band at the High School level brings the focus toward helping students improve and build upon their own musical abilities at a more advanced level, both as individuals and as ensembles.  More emphasis will be put on expression and blend.  Students perform in the Spring and Christmas concerts each year. Outside opportunities for solo and ensemble performances are available to these students at ECMEA, NYSSMA, Pep Rallies, and Ministry Concerts. 

  • High School Orchestra (9th-12th grade)

Orchestra at the High School level brings the focus toward helping students improve and build upon their own musical abilities at a more advanced level, both as individuals and as ensembles.  Students perform in the Spring and Christmas concerts each year. Outside opportunities for solo and ensemble performances are available to these students at ECMEA, NYSSMA, Pep Rallies, and Ministry Concerts.

  • Music Appreciation

This class will be an overview of music history in the common practice era (1600-1800) to the present. There will also be a steady progression of theoretical work based upon common practice music. The goal is to cover this era broadly with attention to important elements and historical features.

  • AP Music Theory*

AP Music Theory builds competence and fluency in music analysis and theoretical understanding through the study of the fundamentals of harmony, melody, form, and rhythm. Students will be tasked with building upon an understanding of these principles in order to achieve proficiency in understanding various styles of music.

  • Music Artist Exploration and Research- ½ year course. 

Students will be free to pick an artist of their liking to research, listen to, analyze and discuss. Students will all follow the same rubric for doing their research, exploration, and discussion. Open to any HS student. 

ART: 

  • Studio Art (9th grade)

This class is an introductory exploration into many facets of the world of art. This includes art’s role in history, artists and their techniques, the special language of art, an understanding of aesthetic art appreciation, and an introduction to the use of various media. 

  • Advanced Studio Art (10th grade)

Students will learn techniques with a variety of media to include charcoal, colored pencil, design markers, watercolor paint, acrylic paint, and more. A basic knowledge of art terms and techniques is required as we build off of prior class experience and work at developing and fine-tuning creative skills. 

  • (Offered 2020-21) Advertising & Design (11th & 12th grade) 

Students will learn basic tools in professional design programs Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. Students will create expressive artwork using digital media as well as advertising media such as logos, letterhead, posters, etc.

  • (Offered 2021-22) 3D Design (11th & 12th grade)

Students will be introduced to a variety of sculpture media which may include paper, cardboard, plastic tape, clay, plaster, and found objects. This course is meant to provide students with a deeper understanding of three-dimensional art and how to manipulate a variety of new materials. Each project is designed to strengthen skill and build an understanding of how to properly identify and employ the elements of art and principles of design.

  • Painting I* (11th & 12th grade) (ECC CREDIT BEARING COURSE)

This class is a foundational course that introduces the student to basic painting techniques with an emphasis on color theory and composition. This course provides a solid foundation for further painting exploration. Upon completion of the course, the student will be able to: gain an understanding of color theory, manipulate imagery and incorporate it into design solutions, attain working knowledge of painting media, and critique painting and art through acceptable vocabulary. (Cost is $285/semester; students need to be in 11th or 12th grade; 4 times/week if seeking college credit) 

  • Drawing I* (11th & 12th grade) (ECC CREDIT BEARING COURSE)

This class is an introductory foundation course that explores a variety of drawing techniques and media. Emphasis will be placed on drawing from direct observation of forms in space. This course will involve the study and practice of the visual elements of composition and provides a solid foundation for development in any of the visual arts. Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to: demonstrate a willingness to experiment in various drawing media, experiment and develop independent drawing and design solutions, and critique drawings and art through acceptable vocabulary  (Cost is $285/semester; students need to be in 11th or 12th grade; 4 times/week if seeking college credit)

MEDICAL/STEM & SCIENCE ELECTIVES:

  • AP Biology* (11th and 12th grade)

This class will study the core scientific principles, theories, and processes that govern living organisms and biological systems. Students will do hands-on laboratory work to investigate natural phenomena.

  • AP Physics C* (11th and 12th grade)

Explore concepts such as kinematics; Newton’s laws of motion, work, energy, and power; systems of particles and linear momentum; rotation; oscillations; and gravitation. You’ll do hands-on laboratory work and in-class activities to investigate phenomena and use calculus to solve problems.

  • Medical Terminology (½ year course) 

Medical Terminology is the study of words and word parts that pertain to chemical composition, biological systems, anatomy, physiology, medical processes and procedures, and a variety of diseases.  It provides specialized language for the sciences, enabling workers to communicate in an accurate, articulate, and concise manner.  This course is designed to give the students a comprehensive knowledge of word construction, definition, and use of terms related to all areas of science.

  • Medical Internship (½ year course)

 Internship with Good Neighbors Health Center. Requires in-class participation and once-a-week attendance at the clinic in the evening. 

  • Technical Graphics II*- (ECC CREDIT BEARING COURSE) 

This is a continuation of CAD that students take in 8th grade. The purpose of this course is to provide students with an understanding of the importance of graphic communication to the engineering design process. Students will expand their knowledge of Computer-Aided Design while learning AutoDesk Inventor, engineering software. The student will gain knowledge of orthographic projections, sections, auxiliary views, and created isometric drawings after mastering the skills of creating 3D models.  The course provides step-by-step instruction of Autodesk Inventor commands. Prerequisite: None. 

  • Manufacturing

This is a continuation of Technical Graphics II. The purpose of this course is to provide students with an understanding of the manufacturing options after the engineering design process. Students will use their knowledge of Computer-Aided Design to take their 3D CAD designs into fruition using the 3D Printers, Laser Cutter and 3D Scanners. The student will gain knowledge of exporting designs from Autodesk Inventor to be compatible with the appropriate manufacturing equipment.  The course provides step-by-step instruction of 3D Printers, 3D Scanners, and a Laser Cutter. Prerequisite: Technical Graphics II.

  •  Mindstorm Robotics/Programming

LEGO® MINDSTORMS® Education EV3 Core Set is a hands-on, cross-curricular STEM solution that engages students by providing the resources to design, build and program their creations while helping them develop essential skills such as creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, and communication. Easily adaptable to fit any learning environment, MINDSTORMS EV3 offers the opportunity for confidence-boosting in-depth study, preparing students to pursue further education in computer science, engineering, and other related areas.  LEGO® MINDSTORMS® Education EV3 combines LEGO Technic building elements, powerful hardware, and Python programming with project-based learning units focusing on engaging STEM topics. The EV3 Intelligent Brick, motors, and sensors let students analyze and apply real data, as they design and build advanced and diverse robotics inventions.

  • AP Computer Science A* / Java coding

This course teaches students the fundamentals of the Java programming language and covers all required topics defined by the College Board’s AP Computer Science A course description.

  • Intro to Programming / Python Coding

Coding using the Python programming language. This course covers fundamental coding topics and skills such as: printing and user input, data types and variables, logical expressions and flow control, debugging skills, lists and loops, working with numbers, dates, and strings, writing and using functions, simple object-oriented programming, and more.

  • Unity Game Programming  (11th & 12th grade)

This course covers fundamental game design and C# coding skills such as: game engines, using the unity framework, C# scripting concepts, 2D game physics, data types, variables and math, logical expressions and flow control and sprites, and unity game components. (Prerequisite: Intro to Programming or AP Computer Science A)

OTHER ELECTIVES:

  • AP Seminar* (part of the AP Capstone program, followed by AP Research in the following year) (11th & 12th grade)

AP Seminar is an interdisciplinary course that encourages students to demonstrate critical thinking, collaboration, and academic research skills on topics of the student’s choosing. To accommodate the wide range of student topics, typical college course equivalents include interdisciplinary or general elective courses.

  • Teacher’s Assistant Program 

Student will work with teachers in a classroom setting providing assistance both to the teacher and working with students; typically in the K-8 level. Course includes writing assignment(s).

  • Independent Learning Programs (ILP) – in Music, Art, Physical Education or Science. 

This course is for students who wish to go above and beyond in a particular area of study. The student is responsible to develop and plan the curriculum. The cooperating teacher serves only as a supervisor and aid to assist students in completing their individual research projects. Students will present their completed project to a panel at the end of the year. Interested students should submit their ILP proposal to the teacher and only students approved for an ILP by the teacher will be scheduled. 

  • Media Technology 

Integral part of Chapel services and other events in the auditorium. Course involves running the sound and other technology involved with Chapel services, school plays, and some night activities. Before-school rehearsals are required in addition to the class time. 

  • Communications/Broadcasting (12th grade)

Communications is a full-year elective course for high school seniors. One of the purposes of this class is to teach Public Speaking skills. In addition to Public Speaking, an emphasis on Radio Communications is the focus in the first semester. In the second semester, there is an emphasis on Television Communications. Students will do various communication projects including producing a live radio show which will broadcast on WDCX, and take a field trip to a local television station.

  • Publishing Design

 Students will learn basic tools in professional design programs Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator as well as Herff Jones Edesign program. Students will create a literary and visual project by designing and producing the school yearbook as a team, each member using his/her talents to create a worthy publication. Additionally, a club version of Yearbook does exist for students who would prefer or that cannot fit into the class.

  • PE Teacher

 Would you like to teach children how to be physically active in life? This course will give you the opportunity to see firsthand what it would be like in the classroom (gym) with a group of excited and active children. You will learn what are some effective teaching styles, the PE curriculum, leadership skills, communication skills, fitness activities, basic sports skills, and how to assess students through the use of rubrics. At the completion of this program, you will have a better understanding if this is the right career choice for you!

  • Intro to Law*

This course is designed to provide the student with a general understanding of the law and our legal system. The textbook, classroom lectures, and other materials will provide the student with the essential background in law that any undergraduate ought to have. The intent is to cover basic fields of law such as property rights, contracts, torts, civil actions, and criminal law. This course will examine changes in the law in response to historical events and their impact on society as a whole. Fulfills SUNY General Education – Social Sciences.

  • Intro to Theater*

An introduction to the theatre experience. This course will involve a survey of the development of theatre, acting theory and techniques, directing theory and methods, and basic principles of stage design and stagecraft. Study will involve the relationship of these elements to the script and will emphasize the theatre as a form of cultural and social expression. Fulfills the following SUNY General Education categories: The Arts or Humanities. ECC Credit Bearing Course.

  • Spanish CLEP*

The purpose of the class is to prepare students who have completed Spanish 3, or demonstrate abilities equal to having finished Spanish 3, to take the Spanish Language CLEP exam. The class will use a variety of resources to reinforce learned grammar through listening, speaking, reading, and writing at a conversational and critical thinking level.

  • Perspectives on the World Christian Movement* 

Have your eyes opened to the heart and purpose of God, and how you can take part in His work all over the world. Scripture, history, culture and strategy converge to reveal the unfolding of God’s kingdom movement and redemptive purposes. Be challenged and inspired to see just how big God is and how much He desires that all might come to know Him. For more info, see http://www.perspectives.org/WesternNY21

  • Biblical Personal Finance

This course is designed to provide the student with an understanding of Biblical Financial Principles.  We will focus on areas of Biblical Stewardship and teachings on money throughout the bible. Study will involve integrating Biblical wisdom on finances with real-life practical knowledge today on managing money. Students will gain greater personal financial literacy that is integrated with Kingdom Principles. 

*denotes college credit available