English I Honors - Excelsior

Students read a selection of short stories from Points of View, a highly regarded short story collection. Each story is analyzed for plot, theme, characterization, setting, tone and point of view. Students then choose one story and write a literary analysis essay on it using textual support and critical commentary if necessary.


Biology Honors - Excelsior

This laboratory-based course focuses on the development and refinement of observation skills, analysis, drawing conclusions, and writing formal lab reports. The students participate in various lab activities including, but not limited to, the Microscope Lab and Osmosis Lab.


Geometry Honors - Excelsior

This course focuses on essential Algebra and Geometry concepts. Topics include factoring polynomials, solving equations and systems of equations, solving Geometry-based word problems, and informal proofs. Applications of concepts and written and verbal explanations are stressed.


World History Honors - Excelsior

The World History Honors Excelsior Program focuses on three main components:

• 1. Study skill preparation specifically for social studies. Over the three day time period students work on identifying key elements of texts as well as primary sources.
  
  
• 2. Writing skills. The students are required to write an essay each day which focuses primarily on their ability to apply Bloom's Taxonomy on a variety of historical topics.
  
  
• 3. Analysis and Evaluation skills are specifically addressed. By utilizing methods of higher order questioning the students develop strategies on how to navigate such questions successfully.