The following courses represent the majority of the courses available at Tech Valley High School, though the total course roster is subject to change based changing state requirements on student interest. In addition to the in-house college offerings listed in the College Ready page and below, our flexibility and lose proximity to both SUNY Polytechnic Institute and the University of Albany may make it convenient to attend classes or participate in academic research at college while at TVHS. In addition, TVHS students often take advantage of online courses through several providers including local colleges, AccelerateU for high school and/or college credit or professional certifications.
Course of Study (* denotes course with college credit bearing option)
9th Grade:
- Freshman Foundations (1 credit)
- Global Humanities
- English 9 (1 credit)
- Global 9 (1 credit)
- Biochemistry
- Living Environment (1 credit)
- Biochemistry (1 credit)
- Chinese 1 (1 credit)
- Physical Education (.5 credit)
- Algebra (1 credit) OR
- Geometry/DDP*
- Geometry (1 credit)
- Drawing and Design for Production (1 credit)
10th Grade:
- Global Humanities
- English 10 (1 credit)
- Global 10 (1 credit)
- Chemistry (1 credit)
- Chinese 2 (1 credit)
- Physical Education (.5 credit)
- Health (.5 credit)
- Algebra 2* (1 credit) OR
- Geometry/DDP*
- Geometry (1 credit)
- Drawing and Design for Production (1 credit)
11th Grade:
- 2 Electives
- PHI-LA
- English 11 (1 credit)
- Physics (1 credit)
- US History* (1 credit)
- Physical Education (.5 credit)
- Algebra 2* (1 credit) OR
- Pre-calculus (1 credit)
- Introduction to Computer Science (1 credit)
12th Grade:
- 3 Electives
- Senior Seminar* (1/2 credit) AND
- Second English Course
- Public Speaking
- Artistic Reincarnation
- Chemistry* (for class of 2024 and 2025) (1 credit)
- Participation in Government and Economics (1 credit)
- Physical Education (.5 credit)
- Pre-calculus* (1 credit) OR
- Statistics* (1 credit) OR
- Calculus* (1 credit)
Electives include:
Anthropology*, Ethics, Creative Writing, Piano, Intro to Drawing*, Art Portfolio, 2D/3D Art , 2D/3D Art II, Materials Exploration in Design, Robotics and Electronics*, Chinese 3*, Chinese 4*, Survey in Nanotechnology*, Forensics*, and online courses in other subjects.
ACE
Course Overview
Resource Room service for special education students.
Advisory
All students take a non-credit bearing Advisory course which meets each day
ITerm
All students complete an ITerm project each year as they explore their Ikigai. Ikigai is a Japanese expression meaning Reason for Being. Exploring Ikigai helps students determine what they love, what they’re good at, what the world needs, and what they can get paid for. During their ITerm project, students meet individually and in groups with business partners both here at TVHS and off-site to learn more about the day to day life of various careers and the pathways professional take to accomplish their goals.
Freshman Foundations
Course Overview
This course will help students learn about positive growth mindsets and the school-wide learning outcomes that make up the key learning at TVHS. In addition, students will receive instruction regarding technology, design principles, and protocols that are essential for success at Tech Valley High School.
English Language Arts
Creative Writing
Course Overview
Whether you love to write or just want to improve your writing skills, come learn the craft and technique of poetry, fiction and creative non-fiction. We’ll explore the traditional (think haiku and short stories) and the non-traditional (think spoken word and flash fiction). We’ll invite poets and authors to visit, write and publish our own poems and stories, and become better writers and thinkers in the process.
English Language Arts
English 9
Course Overview
This class is integrated with Global Studies 9 and is called “Global Humanities 9”. A description of this class may be found under that class.
English 10
Course Overview
This class is integrated with Global Studies 10 and is called “Global Humanities 10”. A description of this class may be found under that class.
English 11
Course Overview
This class is integrated with Physics and is called “PHI-LA”. A description may be found under that class.
English 12/Senior Seminar
This class has a dual purpose. The first purpose is to support and guide seniors through their senior year project. The support will come in the form of determining an action plan, developing a research plan, research methods, the writing and editing of an extensive research paper and refining the presentation of the senior project as a whole. The second purpose is to explore, discuss, analyze and write about provocative texts in order to prepare seniors for college level reading, writing, analysis and discussions. We will focus on text that are of interest to the students along with helping them to explore the world around them through reading and discussions.
Fine Arts
Art and Design I
Course Overview
This introductory course provides an investigative and exploratory approach to art making. Students will create a portfolio of work that expresses their personal style and voice through a variety of projects that includes a taste of graphic design, mixed media, painting, sculpture, and drawing. Students will learn how to apply the elements of art and principles of design in thoughtful and meaningful ways to successfully communicate ideas and personal messages in 2D form.
Art and Design II
Course Overview
This course builds upon the knowledge learned in art & design I and provides an investigative and exploratory approach to art making. Students will create a portfolio of work that expresses their personal style and voice through a variety of projects. Students will learn how to apply the elements of art and principles of design in thoughtful and meaningful ways to successfully communicate ideas and personal messages in 3D form. This course will promote critical thinking as well as a basic experience in the expression of personal ideas in form. Use of mediums/technology may include but not be limited to: paper, clay, plaster, wood, CNC machine, chip board, cardboard, recyclable materials and fabric.
Intro To Drawing
Course Overview
This 3-credit course is offered through SCCC’s College in the High School program. It includes lessons on the history of drawing and its relationship to the history of art. It facilitates student development of basic drawing techniques through the exploration of fundamentals such as observation, composition, color theory, perspective, as well as working from still life, landscape, the figure, and music. (SCCC ART128/3.0 cr.)
Portfolio
Course Overview
This art course offers students the ability to develop a cohesive art portfolio based upon a creative and systematic investigation of formal and conceptual issues in art. Students will create a quality and polished body of work that includes at least 5 major pieces and illustrates a sustained investigation of a specific visual concept/idea. This specific visual concept/idea is student choice. Possible mediums for student choice may include but are not limited to: photography (need own camera), drawing, mixed media, painting, or sculpture. Students must have successfully completed Art & Design class in order to take this course.
Language
Chinese I
Course Overview
This course is designed for individuals who have little or no background of the Chinese language. In this course, you will be introduced to the pinyin and character system, which in turns help you to speak/listen, read and write basic Chinese. In addition, we will learn interesting things about China (and other Chinese-speaking countries from time-to-time); its history, geography, arts/music, culture, folklore/idiom stories, myths, and more. You will enjoy the different language and cultural activities conducted in class along with high-interest projects.
Chinese II
Course Overview
By now, you would have already acquired a basic command of the Chinese language and culture. In this follow-up course, we will build from the foundation we started last year, and you will learn more complex grammar and sentence structure along with thematic conversational Chinese. We will introduce more language and cultural activities along with interesting projects which will help you to gain a better understanding of Chinese. Focus will be placed on tone marks to help you pronounce more accurately. We will learn to write more characters as well and continue the journey to mastery level. As you expand your oral vocabulary and increase your memory load for characters, you will be able to listen, speak, read and write more confidently.
Chinese III
Course Overview
Students will focus on conversational Chinese, mastery of characters, and practical phrases used to communicate in authentic Chinese culture. Students will have the opportunity to take this course for college credits through HVCC and will prepare for the Chinese Regents exam in June. Successful completion of three years of a foreign language is required for an Advanced NYS Regents Diploma. (HVCC CHNS 100/3.0 cr.)
Chinese IV
Course Overview
This 3-credit course is offered through the University at Albany’s College in the High School program, pending final approval. This is a continuation of Chinese instruction that aims to further develop the students’ overall linguistic command of modern Chinese through the training of the four communicative skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. In addition, we will focus more on conversational Chinese and characters mastery. We will emphasize on accurate tones to help us pronounce the words. Throughout the school year, students will participate in special/engaging projects created to support the learning of the different topical units. This course will be taught by a visiting scholar from the Confucius Institute. (SUNY AEAC201/3.0 cr.)
Math
Algebra 2 Common Core (College Algebra and Trigonometry)
Course Overview
Building on their work with linear, quadratic, and exponential functions, students extend their repertoire of functions to include polynomial, rational, and radical functions. Students work closely with the expressions that define the functions, and continue to expand and hone their abilities to model situations and to solve equations, including solving quadratic equations over the set of complex numbers and solving exponential equations using the properties of logarithms. (HVCC MATH150/4.0 cr.)
CC Algebra
Course Overview
This course will deepen and extend understanding of linear and exponential relationships by contrasting them with each other and by applying linear models to data that exhibit a linear trend, and students engage in methods for analyzing, solving, and using quadratic functions.
Engineering
Course Overview
This is an introduction to engineering integration that can be paired with Algebra or Bioengineering.
Geometry/DDP
Course Overview
Look around, geometry is everywhere! From architecture to astronomy, from carpentry to civil engineering–geometry was even used to create the table you are sitting at! Geometry is one of the oldest sciences and most widely used branches of mathematics across all professions. Geometry is a branch of mathematics that deals with the measurement, properties, and relationships among points, lines, angles, surfaces, and solids. Furthermore, these geometric elements are the building blocks of engineering design.
Through projects in this course, you will learn the fundamentals of geometry and apply what you learned to solve real-world problems through the design and production process. Although there are many types of geometry, this course is devoted primarily to plane Euclidean geometry, studied both synthetically (without coordinates) and analytically (with coordinates).
Design and Drawing for Production, or DDP, focuses on how ideas are transformed into finished products. Technical drawing, by hand and computer, is an essential part of this process. In this course, students will learn the design process and how to express ideas through the graphical language of technology. (St. Rose MAT145/3.0 cr.)
Intermediate Algebra
Course Overview
Intermediate Algebra is designed to broaden and expand the concepts of Algebra l. This course covers all the essential topics needed to be successful in Algebra ll. Topics include: right triangle trigonometry; linear, quadratic and exponential functions; transformations; polynomials.
Pre-Calculus
Course Overview
This course is designed to prepare students for Calculus 1 and other math courses at the college level. This course will focus on the following main areas:
Review the fundamental concepts of algebra
Further explore exponential, logarithmic and trigonometric functions and construct functions from verbal descriptions and formulas;
Conic section applications and analytical Geometry;
Polynomial and Rational Functions applications;
Review trigonometry from the perspective of the unit circle;
Explore additional topics in trigonometry such as: Polar Coordinates, Vectors, The Dot Product;
Further explore Complex Numbers;
Matrices and determinants;
and at the end of the 2nd semester we will introduce calculus topics such as limits, continuity and derivatives.
Statistics
Course Overview
This course serves as an introduction to the concepts of data analysis and statistics. Applications will come from a variety of areas. Topics include, but are not limited to, data analysis and summary for both one and two variables, sampling techniques and design of experiments, basic probability concepts, discrete and continuous probability distributions, the central limit theorem, sampling distributions, confidence intervals and hypothesis tests. This course is project driven and will include significant use of technology for computations and analysis. Students will be eligible to receive HVCC credit for this course. (SCCC MAT147/3.0 cr.)
AP Calculus
Calculus is used in Physics and Economics, Statistics and Psychology, Finance and Urban Planning, … its uses are endless. This course is the first step; you will explore the concepts of limits, differentials and integrals, and their applications in science and industry. You will develop an understanding of the theory and the ability to use these ideas in applications. Throughout the course, you will develop new mathematical knowledge by examining concepts and solving problems presented using various representations – analytical, numerical, graphical and verbal. This course is an AP course and culminates in the AP exam for Calculus AB.
Science
Bio-Engineering
Course Overview
Great advances have been made in the field of biology in recent decades that will continue to have a major impact on our lives. From advanced in nanomedicine to green technology, Tech Valley Region is at the forefront of these developments. To participate in these advances, Tech Valley High school students enroll in Bioengineering, a 2.0 credit course, with one credit earned in Living Environment and the second in Engineering. The course is focused on “science in service” and engages students in solving real world problems that impact our community. (AP Biology/credit by exam)
Computer Science
Course Overview
This course is a broad introduction to a variety of fundamental topics in computer science through contemporary themes such as multimedia and media computing. Students will consider problems in the application area that can be solved with software. Using the theme of the course, students will be introduced to important areas of computer science including abstraction, computer organization, representation of information and the development and evaluation of algorithmic solutions. Python is the programming language introduced and used in this course. Python is often used in Web and media programming. The web search engine Google is mostly programmed in Python and the media company Industrial Light & Magic uses Python. The version of Python used in this course is Jython. Jython is Python implemented in Java. Jython will let us program multimedia that will work across multiple computer platforms. This course will also be using the Finch, a robot manufactured under license from Carnegie Mellon University and designed for computer science education. The Finch robot will allow students to write richly interactive programs and see the result of their programs hands on and connect to the field of robotics. (St. Rose CSC111/3.0 cr.)
Environmental Science
Course Overview
A course which studies the scientific basis for environmental issues that impact upon society. This course includes an introduction to earth systems and resources, population, land and water use, energy resources and consumption, pollution, and global change. The emphasis will be on analyzing environmental problems (natural and anthropogenic), evaluating their risks, and examining possible solutions. (AP Environmental Science/credit by exam)
Physics
Course Overview
This is an introductory Physics course. The course includes an algebra based introduction to mechanics, dynamics, electricity and magnetism, waves and modern physics. The mathematical emphasis is on modeling physical systems using formulas, graphs and scaled diagrams. (AP Physics/credit by exam)
Robotics & Electronics
Course Overview
Students will use electronics to solve a variety of technical problems. Topics will include an introduction to electricity and electronics, robotics, and programming. The emphasis will be on building solutions based on theoretical understanding.
Chemistry
Course Overview
This class focuses on the theory and problem solving in chemical reactions, atomic structures and periodic trends, chemical bonding, states of matter, gases, and energy. The first semester is integrated with English and will focus on communication as well as chemistry content.
Survey in Nanotechnology
Course Overview
Introduction to the definitions, principles and applications of nanotechnology. Discussion of emergent nanoscale properties, atomic and molecular self-assembly and concepts of bottom-up and top-down processing and fabrication. Introduction to selected nanoscale systems, including quantum dots, carbon nanotubes, and graphene. (SUNY Poly N ENG 101/3.0 cr.)
Forensic Science Investigation
Course Overview
An introduction to forensic science and the various methodologies and applications used in today’s multi-discipline crime laboratories. Topics will include a brief history of forensic science, introduction to crime laboratory disciplines and quality assurance, crime scene processing, analysis of physical evidence by the crime lab [firearms and tool marks, chemistry (toxicology, controlled substances), trace evidence, biology, patterned evidence, questioned documents, etc.] and presentation of test results in legal procedures. (SUNY ABIO 175/3.0 cr.)
Health & Wellness
Health
Course Overview
In this .5 credit course, students are meeting National and State Health Education standards through practicing seven personal and social skills while learning specific research-based functional knowledge from nine essential content areas. Students complete multiple projects in areas related to Mental Health, Physical Activity and Nutrition, Drugs and other health areas.
Physical Education
Course Overview
Physical Education is a yearly .5 credit course and is based upon the acquisition of knowledge and skills that are the foundation for engaging in physical activity. Students will participate in a variety of Units and Projects with the goal of empowering all students to sustain regular, lifelong physical activity as a foundation for a healthy, productive and fulfilling life.
Independent Physical Education
Course Overview
Independent PE is a hybrid .5 credit course offered to seniors who need extra space in their schedule. This course takes regular Physical Education to an independent level, where students are provided a FitBit and require to create and track goals over the course of the year. Students are also required to seek out opportunities for physical activity outside of their regular school schedule.
Social Studies
US History
Course Overview
This course begins with the colonial and constitutional foundations of the United States and explores the government structure and functions written in the Constitution. The development of the nation and the political, social, and economic factors that led to the challenges our nation faced in the Civil War are addressed. Industrialization, urbanization, and the accompanying problems are examined, along with America’s emergence as a world power, the two world wars of the 20th century, and the Cold War. Students explore the expansion of the federal government, the threat of terrorism, and the place of the United States in an increasingly globalized and interconnected world. (HVCC HIST 110&111/3.0 cr.)
Cultural Anthropology
Course Overview
This one-year, 3-credit course is offered through the University at Albany’s College in the High School program. The course introduces students to the field of cultural anthropology and how anthropologists go about their work in the writing of ethnographies. Anthropology seeks to understand all cultures around the world and throughout time on their own terms and according to their own standards and beliefs. This course will explore key theoretical, topical, and ethical issues of interest to cultural anthropologists. We will examine diverse ways in which people around the globe have constructed cultural identities (such as gender, ethnicity, nationality, race, and class) and we will consider the impact of increasing globalization on such processes. (SUNY ANT 108/3.0 cr.)
Ethics
Course Overview
The content of the course addresses business concepts, principles, and knowledge related to business ethics. Students will learn to analyze and solve ethical problems and investigate the relationship between business, government, and society.
Community Service
Course Overview
Students must complete 100 community service hours at a rate of approximately 25 per year. At least 10 service hours must be completed each year. Completion of community service hours is a requirement for completion of the TVHS program.
Global Humanities 9
Course Overview
Global Humanities is an integration of social studies and English language arts in which you will closely examine issues that currently affect the lives of individuals and communities around the world. As readers, writers, historians and literary scholars, we will explore many varied social, political and economic points of view, and probe the myriad texts that tell the stories of humankind, from ancient times to the present. The ninth grade curriculum will cover global history from ancient times to the mid-18th century.
Global Humanities 10
Course Overview
Global Humanities is an integration of social studies and English language arts in which you will closely examine issues that currently affect the lives of individuals and communities around the world. As readers, writers, historians and literary scholars, we will explore many varied social, political and economic points of view, and probe the myriad texts that tell the stories of humankind, from ancient times to the present. The tenth grade curriculum will cover global history from the mid-18th to the 21st century.
I-Term 9
Course Overview
Students must interview a professional, attend two trips to work sites, attend 2 exposium sessions, attend 2 paideia sessions, complete a poster on the topic provided to them, and present their poster in a fair atmosphere. Participation in I-Term is a requirement for completion of the TVHS program.
I-Term 10
Course Overview
Students must interview a professional, attend two trips to work sites, attend 2 exposium sessions, attend 2 paideia sessions, complete a poster on the topic provided to them, and present their poster in a fair atmosphere. Participation in I-Term is a requirement for completion of the TVHS program.
I-Term 11
Course Overview
Students must complete a 1 week internship (20 hrs) , attend 2 exposium sessions, attend 2 paideia sessions, complete and present a TED Talk. Participation in I-Term is a requirement for completion of the TVHS program.
I-Term 12
Course Overview
Students must complete a 2 week internship (40 hrs) and present a senior project. A passing senior project is a requirement for completion of the TVHS program.
Participation in Government and Economics
Course Overview
This course integrates the principles of modern economics with participation in government. Students will explore the challenges facing the global economy and various policy-making opportunities available to government to address these challenges. This course aims to provide students with opportunities to become engaged in the political process by acquiring the knowledge and practicing the skills necessary for active citizenship. Participation in government and in our communities is fundamental to the success of American democracy.
Technology
Principles of Design
Course Overview
This course will focus on the elements or art and, specifically, how they can be used with maximum impact for presentations and projects.
Principles of Tech
Course Overview
This is a tech literacy course that will focus on the many tools that students use at TVHS.