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The Homeschool Academy of South Jersey
"We can help you Homeschool your child"
http://www.homeschoolacademysj.org
staff@homeschoolacademysj.org
609-805-2548
609-805-7242
"We can help you Homeschool your child"
http://www.homeschoolacademysj.org
staff@homeschoolacademysj.org
609-805-2548
609-805-7242
Cumberland County Community Church
1800 E. Broad Street
Millville, N.J. 08332
1800 E. Broad Street
Millville, N.J. 08332
Course Information 2011-12 School Year
Revised 9/13/11
Revised 9/13/11
Are you feeling overwhelmed with all the academic subjects you need to teach your child?
The Homeschool Academy of South Jersey (HASJ) provides courses in academic and enrichment subjects with highly
qualified teachers and small class sizes. HASJ has been operating successfully for nine years.
HASJ encompasses the 5th through 12th grades. Classes are held on TUESDAYS from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The school
year is divided into four 9-week quarters, with a two-week break in late December. All classes, except electives, are 60
minutes long. A one-hour lunch break begins at 12 p.m.
The Academy offers a unique learning experience. Teachers provide the instruction for all the lessons. The student
completes the homework at home under his/her parents’ guidance and returns the assignments the following week for the
teacher to grade. All homework assignments and grades are available through our online grading service, JupiterGrades.
Most classes offered at the Academy carry high school credit for Homeschoolers desiring to earn a diploma. This is
accomplished through HASJ’s High School Diploma Program. Your student’s schedule will be structured to meet New
Jersey diploma requirements. Many high school students graduate a year in advance. (If you are interested in this service,
our High School Consultant can help you prepare for the accelerated high school program).
HASJ is a "low-tuition" school. A monthly payment schedule is available. The first payment, due with registration, includes
the cost of textbooks, supply fees, lab fees, and diploma. HASJ’s Cancellation Policy states that classes may be cancelled at
any time with a prorated refund, but the registration payment is not refundable. Class size is limited to ten students, so it is
not advisable to wait until September to register. Special discounts are available for families registering two or more children
full time and also for registering before June 30th or August 31st. New registrations will be accepted until classes are full.
The Homeschool Academy of South Jersey admits students of all races, colors, national and ethnic origins. HASJ does not
discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and/or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies,
admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, or athletic and other school-administered programs. All students are
extended the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to any student enrolled in the
Homeschool Academy of South Jersey.
Principal and Director: Rose Sias
Financial Administrator: Denise Sias Teacher Advisor: Carla Ives
All families must have access to a computer with internet capability. Grades and homework will be available
online. Homework assignments may require internet research. All students must also possess a flash drive. In
the event that the student’s home printer is not functioning, written homework assignments should be brought to
school on the flash drive to be printed in the office.
Course content is appropriate to each grade level. Students may enroll in other levels by passing a placement test or with
consent of the teacher.
(All incoming 5th to 8th Grade students will take a math placement test on the first day of school. You can review the test at
www.mathusee.com by clicking on “placement.”)
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS FOR 5TH/6TH GRADE CLASSES
Language Arts (Grammar, Literature, Vocabulary, Spelling, and Handwriting)
This course is designed to cover all basic English skills. A rich variety of reading material will encompass not only
vocabulary, but also enhance the student’s daily verbal skills through the use of appropriate spelling words. Grammar is
incorporated into the writing assignments to provide a thorough understanding of the English language.
Delta *Self-Paced Math Course (5th Grade)
This course introduces students to the concepts of multiplication and division. Students will learn how to use each concept
in their everyday lives, thereby reinforcing each concept and demonstrating the importance of mastering it. The focus of the
course is that Mathematics can and should be fun.
Epsilon *Self-Paced Math Course (6th Grade)
This course focuses on functional fractions, measurements, and other useful techniques for fractions.
*All self-paced math courses are based on each individual student’s progress throughout the year. Students can move at
their own speed as they master the concepts.
History
This course is a study in Old World History, which is the study of the Eastern Hemisphere, from the Middle East where
history began, through Asia, Africa, Europe, Australia, Oceania, and Antarctica.
Science
Learning about Astronomy should never be boring. This course will take you to the moons of Jupiter, and explore the
possibility of life on these distant worlds. Travel through the expanse of the universe and discover just how much SPACE
there is in Space. Students will learn how modern day scientists are pushing the limits of space exploration every day.
Arts & Crafts
Drawing, sketching, water painting, collage, and a variety of interesting crafts will be explored. Students will study great
artists and view their work. Besides having lots of fun, the student will make some beautiful and useful projects with a very
personal touch.
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS FOR 7TH/8TH GRADE CLASSES
Language Arts (Grammar, Vocabulary, Reading, Composition, Spelling, and Literature)
Students are given a thorough, systematic presentation of grammar, vocabulary, composition, and mechanics. The writing
process will be explained and demonstrated. Personal reading in classic literary works will build a lifelong appreciation of
good literature.
Zeta math (7th Grade)
This course focuses on percentages and decimals.
Pre-Algebra (8th Grade with required Pretest)
This course fulfills 8th Grade or high school level math and covers polynomials, area, circumference, volume, ratios, the
Pythagorean Theorem, positive/negative numbers and probability. Pre-Algebra combines the strength of systematic review
and hands-on manipulatives to teach at a conceptual level. The Math-U-See program will be utilized for this course.
General Science (7th grade)
This course covers the nature of botany and plant classification before moving on to reproduction, seeds, water movement,
nutrient production, and distribution. Some of the notebook assignments include a pollination “story,” bark rubbings, leaf
identification, and labeling the parts of a flower. The text includes interesting activities and projects, such as growing seeds
in plastic bags, making a light hut to grow plants, dissecting a bean seed, making pine cones open/close, and measuring
transpiration.
Physical Science (8th grade)
This course will provide a detailed introduction to the physical environment and some of the basic laws that make it work.
It will cover the earth’s atmosphere, hydrosphere, and lithosphere. It will also cover details on weather, motion, Newton’s
Laws, gravity, the solar system, atomic structure, radiation, nuclear reactions, stars and galaxies. Many lab experiments will
be performed during the lab portion of the class.
American History
This course presents American History with an emphasis on the people and events that shaped American character. It will
emphasis geography skills.
Arts & Crafts
Drawing, sketching, water painting, collage, and a variety of interesting crafts will be pursued. Students will study great
artists and view their work. Besides having lots of fun, the student will make some beautiful and useful projects with a very
personal touch.
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS FOR HIGH SCHOOL CLASSES
HISTORY COURSES
History of US 1 (American History through 1860)
At first glance, you might read “U.S.,” but it really is “US” – as in you and me and our history as a people. The History of
Us (by Joy Hakim) is an exciting series, full of pictures, maps, biographical vignettes, and other interesting “asides,” pieces
of history lost in many standard school textbooks. This course utilizes Books 1 through 5 in the series. Class time is
devoted to discussion, utilizing the text along with portions of carefully chosen, relevant historical novels, movies, quotes,
and other materials. Students are expected to read assigned chapters in preparation for class discussion. Short research
papers and project work will be assigned.
History of US 2 (1860 to present day) [Prerequisite: History of US 1]
This course is a continuation of History of US 1. Students discover the exciting events that shaped our country from the
Civil War to what’s going on in our present day world. This course utilizes Books 6 through 10 in The History of Us (by
Joy Hakim). Class time is devoted to discussion, utilizing the text along with portions of carefully chosen, relevant historical
novels, movies, quotes, and other materials. Students are expected to read assigned chapters in preparation for class
discussion. Short research papers and project work will be assigned. A computer lab may be utilized for this course.
World History [Prerequisite: History of US 1]
This course builds a solid foundation of ancient history that traces man, his lands, and cultures from the beginning of the
human race through current times. The history of ideas, art, music, revolution, evolution, socialism, communism,
humanism, liberalism, and more will be featured in this class. Toward the end of the course, there will be an emphasis on
current events that are shaping our 21st century world. There will also be an emphasis on map study.
Economics/Civics (Economics will be taught 1st and 2nd quarters; Civics in the 3rd and 4th quarters)
Economics. In the first quarter, Economics weaves a little history, current events, social studies, government, math, a little
science and some classic economics into a revealing look at the foundations and workings of our monetary system. In the
second quarter, the student gains hands-on experience with the Economics of Life, making what they learned in the first
quarter applicable to real-life situations.
Civics. This course briefly explores the origins of our country and the Constitution. It will cover how and why our national
government came into being, examine the Constitution in detail, and understand what it represents, as well as the means by
which it operates. Other topics include legal history, scientific law, political law, components of common law, reasons for
government, and unsolved legal problems. In the fourth quarter, these concepts will be applied to current events. This
course is an excellent introduction to law and justice. A computer lab may be utilized for this course.
MATH COURSES
Personal Finance Math [Prerequisite: Passing Grade in Zeta Math]
This should be the only required math course since it will be the most useful. Learn the most important math concepts of
taxes, banking, interest, real estate, expense of operating an automobile and much more. The Math-U-See program is used
for teaching this course.
Algebra I
This course is the basic course in Algebra. The Math-U-See program is used for teaching this course. (An entrance test
may be required.)
Geometry [Prerequisite: Passing Grade in Algebra 1]
This course is the basic course in Geometry. The Math-U-See program is used for teaching this course.
Algebra 2 [Prerequisites: Passing Grades in Algebra 1 and Geometry]
This course is an advanced Algebra course. The Math-U-See program is used for teaching this course. (An entrance test
may be required.)
Pre-Calculus [Prerequisites: Passing Grades in Algebra 1, Geometry and Algebra 2]
This course is a complete course in Pre-Calculus. The Math-U-See program is used for teaching this course. (An entrance
test may be required.)
SCIENCE COURSES
Biology (Recommended for 9th Grade)
A strong background is provided in the scientific method, the five-kingdom classification scheme, microscopy,
biochemistry, cellular biology, molecular and Mendelian genetics, dissection, and ecosystems. Lab work will be a significant
part of the class.
Chemistry (Recommended for College Prep.) [Prerequisite: Algebra 1]
This course covers significant figures, units, classification, the mole concept, stoichiometry, thermochemistry,
thermodynamics, kinetics, acids and bases, redox reactions, solutions, atomic structure, Lewis structures, molecular
geometry, the gas laws, and equilibrium. Lab work will be a significant part of the class.
Earth Science
This will be half a year of Geology and half a year of Environmental Science. Primary textbook will be offered online. This
may be taken in place of Chemistry for the non-college bound student or as 3rd year science course. Course curriculum is
currently being developed and details will be made available to students prior to the term in which it is offered.
Anatomy/Physiology
This science course will be dealing with the structure and function of the human body and mechanisms for maintaining
homeostasis within it. It will include the study of cells, tissues, and the integumentary, skeletal, muscular and nervous
systems.
ENGLISH COURSES
Intensive Writing Course (Recommended for all incoming 9th grade and new students)
This course presents techniques developed by the Institute for Excellence in Writing. Along with a comprehensive review of
the 8th Grade Language Arts course (described previously), this course will cover topics such as summarizing a reference,
writing from pictures, research reports, creative writing, essay writing, expanded essay, persuasive essay, super essay,
personal essay, and literary critiques. Grammar and vocabulary will be included in the class.
Literary Analysis
Students will learn how to read, infer, analyze, and write about literature. Additionally, because literature has the power to
influence readers, this course seeks to teach students to recognize an author’s worldview and exercise discernment when
reading literature assignments. Course topics include: analytical techniques, literary elements, literary devices, and writing
genres. Students will study vocabulary and intensive writing skills to produce the basic essay, the expanded essay, the
persuasive essay, the super essay and the personal essay.
The Literary Analysis text seeks to build good character qualities while increasing the student’s enjoyment of good
literature. Leo Tolstoy, Nathaniel Hawthorne, O. Henry, and Guy de Maupassant are a few of the authors who will be
studied. Students also continue their study of grammar concepts, writing techniques, speech presentations, vocabulary,
reading comprehension, literary elements, writing genres, poetry, literary devices, and research writing, taken from the
aforementioned Institute for Excellence in Writing.
World Literature
Students will learn how to read, infer, analyze, and write about literature. Additionally, because literature has the power to
influence readers, this course seeks to teach students to recognize an author’s worldview and exercise discernment when
reading literature assignments. Course topics include: analytical techniques, literary elements, literary devices, and writing
genres. Students will study vocabulary and intensive writing skills to produce the basic essay, the expanded essay, the
persuasive essay, the super essay and the personal essay.
This course focuses on the writing of such famous authors as Dickens, Poe, Goethe, Tolstoy, and Hugo. Students also
continue their study of grammar concepts, writing techniques, speech presentations, vocabulary, reading comprehension,
literary elements, writing genres, poetry, literary devices, and research writing, taken from the aforementioned Institute for
Excellence in Writing.
American Literature
Students learn how to read, infer, analyze, and write about literature. Additionally, because literature has the power to
influence readers, this course seeks to teach students to recognize an author’s worldview and exercise discernment when
reading literature assignments. Course topics include: analytical techniques, literary elements, literary devices, and writing
genres. Students will study vocabulary and intensive writing skills to produce the basic essay, the expanded essay, the
persuasive essay, the super essay and the personal essay.
The American Literature text includes short stories, drama, poetry, and essays by some of America’s great preachers,
writers, authors, poets, statesmen, and scholars. Students also continue their study of grammar concepts, writing
techniques, speech presentations, vocabulary, reading comprehension, literary elements, writing genres, poetry, literary
devices, and research writing, taken from the aforementioned Institute for Excellence in Writing.
ELECTIVES
Foreign Language
Language courses are offered through our Online Academy. Additional fees apply.
Introduction to Microsoft Office (Practical Arts Credit)
The emphasis is on Computer Applications, with a concentration on Microsoft Word, Excel, Publisher, Access, and
PowerPoint. Students are also taught about computer hardware and peripherals, operating systems, and networks.
Keyboarding skills are emphasized.
Art Projects
Basic principles of composition, color, and two and three dimensional design will be explored. Students will have the
opportunity to work in a broad variety of media. Personal expression, creative techniques, critical analysis of artwork, and
art history are included. Media include: oil pastels, chalk pastels, colored pencils, etc. Famous artists and their work will be
examined with an eye towards appreciation. Advanced techniques using chalk pastels, charcoal, watercolor and acrylic
painting, and mixed media are also explored.
Healthy Living
This course is a study of all bodily systems. Disease and disease prevention are a primary focus.
This course will satisfy the health requirement for high school.
Other Electives
A wide variety of elective courses are available through our Online Academy. Additional fees apply.
New Jersey Minimum Requirements for a High School Diploma
English – 4 years
Physical Education/Health – 4 years
Math – 3 years (2009 begin with Algebra 1) (2010 begin with Geometry)
Science – 3 years
U.S. History – 2 years
World History – 1 year
Economics – ½ year
Foreign Language – 1 year (Two years recommended for college-bound students)
Art – 1 year
Practical Art – 1 year (Microsoft Office will satisfy this requirement)
Electives – 4 years
Total Credits – 24 ½ minimum required
Please note that all courses mentioned in this Course Information Brochure are subject to change based on availability and
interest.
The Homeschool Academy of South Jersey (HASJ) provides courses in academic and enrichment subjects with highly
qualified teachers and small class sizes. HASJ has been operating successfully for nine years.
HASJ encompasses the 5th through 12th grades. Classes are held on TUESDAYS from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The school
year is divided into four 9-week quarters, with a two-week break in late December. All classes, except electives, are 60
minutes long. A one-hour lunch break begins at 12 p.m.
The Academy offers a unique learning experience. Teachers provide the instruction for all the lessons. The student
completes the homework at home under his/her parents’ guidance and returns the assignments the following week for the
teacher to grade. All homework assignments and grades are available through our online grading service, JupiterGrades.
Most classes offered at the Academy carry high school credit for Homeschoolers desiring to earn a diploma. This is
accomplished through HASJ’s High School Diploma Program. Your student’s schedule will be structured to meet New
Jersey diploma requirements. Many high school students graduate a year in advance. (If you are interested in this service,
our High School Consultant can help you prepare for the accelerated high school program).
HASJ is a "low-tuition" school. A monthly payment schedule is available. The first payment, due with registration, includes
the cost of textbooks, supply fees, lab fees, and diploma. HASJ’s Cancellation Policy states that classes may be cancelled at
any time with a prorated refund, but the registration payment is not refundable. Class size is limited to ten students, so it is
not advisable to wait until September to register. Special discounts are available for families registering two or more children
full time and also for registering before June 30th or August 31st. New registrations will be accepted until classes are full.
The Homeschool Academy of South Jersey admits students of all races, colors, national and ethnic origins. HASJ does not
discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and/or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies,
admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, or athletic and other school-administered programs. All students are
extended the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to any student enrolled in the
Homeschool Academy of South Jersey.
Principal and Director: Rose Sias
Financial Administrator: Denise Sias Teacher Advisor: Carla Ives
All families must have access to a computer with internet capability. Grades and homework will be available
online. Homework assignments may require internet research. All students must also possess a flash drive. In
the event that the student’s home printer is not functioning, written homework assignments should be brought to
school on the flash drive to be printed in the office.
Course content is appropriate to each grade level. Students may enroll in other levels by passing a placement test or with
consent of the teacher.
(All incoming 5th to 8th Grade students will take a math placement test on the first day of school. You can review the test at
www.mathusee.com by clicking on “placement.”)
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS FOR 5TH/6TH GRADE CLASSES
Language Arts (Grammar, Literature, Vocabulary, Spelling, and Handwriting)
This course is designed to cover all basic English skills. A rich variety of reading material will encompass not only
vocabulary, but also enhance the student’s daily verbal skills through the use of appropriate spelling words. Grammar is
incorporated into the writing assignments to provide a thorough understanding of the English language.
Delta *Self-Paced Math Course (5th Grade)
This course introduces students to the concepts of multiplication and division. Students will learn how to use each concept
in their everyday lives, thereby reinforcing each concept and demonstrating the importance of mastering it. The focus of the
course is that Mathematics can and should be fun.
Epsilon *Self-Paced Math Course (6th Grade)
This course focuses on functional fractions, measurements, and other useful techniques for fractions.
*All self-paced math courses are based on each individual student’s progress throughout the year. Students can move at
their own speed as they master the concepts.
History
This course is a study in Old World History, which is the study of the Eastern Hemisphere, from the Middle East where
history began, through Asia, Africa, Europe, Australia, Oceania, and Antarctica.
Science
Learning about Astronomy should never be boring. This course will take you to the moons of Jupiter, and explore the
possibility of life on these distant worlds. Travel through the expanse of the universe and discover just how much SPACE
there is in Space. Students will learn how modern day scientists are pushing the limits of space exploration every day.
Arts & Crafts
Drawing, sketching, water painting, collage, and a variety of interesting crafts will be explored. Students will study great
artists and view their work. Besides having lots of fun, the student will make some beautiful and useful projects with a very
personal touch.
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS FOR 7TH/8TH GRADE CLASSES
Language Arts (Grammar, Vocabulary, Reading, Composition, Spelling, and Literature)
Students are given a thorough, systematic presentation of grammar, vocabulary, composition, and mechanics. The writing
process will be explained and demonstrated. Personal reading in classic literary works will build a lifelong appreciation of
good literature.
Zeta math (7th Grade)
This course focuses on percentages and decimals.
Pre-Algebra (8th Grade with required Pretest)
This course fulfills 8th Grade or high school level math and covers polynomials, area, circumference, volume, ratios, the
Pythagorean Theorem, positive/negative numbers and probability. Pre-Algebra combines the strength of systematic review
and hands-on manipulatives to teach at a conceptual level. The Math-U-See program will be utilized for this course.
General Science (7th grade)
This course covers the nature of botany and plant classification before moving on to reproduction, seeds, water movement,
nutrient production, and distribution. Some of the notebook assignments include a pollination “story,” bark rubbings, leaf
identification, and labeling the parts of a flower. The text includes interesting activities and projects, such as growing seeds
in plastic bags, making a light hut to grow plants, dissecting a bean seed, making pine cones open/close, and measuring
transpiration.
Physical Science (8th grade)
This course will provide a detailed introduction to the physical environment and some of the basic laws that make it work.
It will cover the earth’s atmosphere, hydrosphere, and lithosphere. It will also cover details on weather, motion, Newton’s
Laws, gravity, the solar system, atomic structure, radiation, nuclear reactions, stars and galaxies. Many lab experiments will
be performed during the lab portion of the class.
American History
This course presents American History with an emphasis on the people and events that shaped American character. It will
emphasis geography skills.
Arts & Crafts
Drawing, sketching, water painting, collage, and a variety of interesting crafts will be pursued. Students will study great
artists and view their work. Besides having lots of fun, the student will make some beautiful and useful projects with a very
personal touch.
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS FOR HIGH SCHOOL CLASSES
HISTORY COURSES
History of US 1 (American History through 1860)
At first glance, you might read “U.S.,” but it really is “US” – as in you and me and our history as a people. The History of
Us (by Joy Hakim) is an exciting series, full of pictures, maps, biographical vignettes, and other interesting “asides,” pieces
of history lost in many standard school textbooks. This course utilizes Books 1 through 5 in the series. Class time is
devoted to discussion, utilizing the text along with portions of carefully chosen, relevant historical novels, movies, quotes,
and other materials. Students are expected to read assigned chapters in preparation for class discussion. Short research
papers and project work will be assigned.
History of US 2 (1860 to present day) [Prerequisite: History of US 1]
This course is a continuation of History of US 1. Students discover the exciting events that shaped our country from the
Civil War to what’s going on in our present day world. This course utilizes Books 6 through 10 in The History of Us (by
Joy Hakim). Class time is devoted to discussion, utilizing the text along with portions of carefully chosen, relevant historical
novels, movies, quotes, and other materials. Students are expected to read assigned chapters in preparation for class
discussion. Short research papers and project work will be assigned. A computer lab may be utilized for this course.
World History [Prerequisite: History of US 1]
This course builds a solid foundation of ancient history that traces man, his lands, and cultures from the beginning of the
human race through current times. The history of ideas, art, music, revolution, evolution, socialism, communism,
humanism, liberalism, and more will be featured in this class. Toward the end of the course, there will be an emphasis on
current events that are shaping our 21st century world. There will also be an emphasis on map study.
Economics/Civics (Economics will be taught 1st and 2nd quarters; Civics in the 3rd and 4th quarters)
Economics. In the first quarter, Economics weaves a little history, current events, social studies, government, math, a little
science and some classic economics into a revealing look at the foundations and workings of our monetary system. In the
second quarter, the student gains hands-on experience with the Economics of Life, making what they learned in the first
quarter applicable to real-life situations.
Civics. This course briefly explores the origins of our country and the Constitution. It will cover how and why our national
government came into being, examine the Constitution in detail, and understand what it represents, as well as the means by
which it operates. Other topics include legal history, scientific law, political law, components of common law, reasons for
government, and unsolved legal problems. In the fourth quarter, these concepts will be applied to current events. This
course is an excellent introduction to law and justice. A computer lab may be utilized for this course.
MATH COURSES
Personal Finance Math [Prerequisite: Passing Grade in Zeta Math]
This should be the only required math course since it will be the most useful. Learn the most important math concepts of
taxes, banking, interest, real estate, expense of operating an automobile and much more. The Math-U-See program is used
for teaching this course.
Algebra I
This course is the basic course in Algebra. The Math-U-See program is used for teaching this course. (An entrance test
may be required.)
Geometry [Prerequisite: Passing Grade in Algebra 1]
This course is the basic course in Geometry. The Math-U-See program is used for teaching this course.
Algebra 2 [Prerequisites: Passing Grades in Algebra 1 and Geometry]
This course is an advanced Algebra course. The Math-U-See program is used for teaching this course. (An entrance test
may be required.)
Pre-Calculus [Prerequisites: Passing Grades in Algebra 1, Geometry and Algebra 2]
This course is a complete course in Pre-Calculus. The Math-U-See program is used for teaching this course. (An entrance
test may be required.)
SCIENCE COURSES
Biology (Recommended for 9th Grade)
A strong background is provided in the scientific method, the five-kingdom classification scheme, microscopy,
biochemistry, cellular biology, molecular and Mendelian genetics, dissection, and ecosystems. Lab work will be a significant
part of the class.
Chemistry (Recommended for College Prep.) [Prerequisite: Algebra 1]
This course covers significant figures, units, classification, the mole concept, stoichiometry, thermochemistry,
thermodynamics, kinetics, acids and bases, redox reactions, solutions, atomic structure, Lewis structures, molecular
geometry, the gas laws, and equilibrium. Lab work will be a significant part of the class.
Earth Science
This will be half a year of Geology and half a year of Environmental Science. Primary textbook will be offered online. This
may be taken in place of Chemistry for the non-college bound student or as 3rd year science course. Course curriculum is
currently being developed and details will be made available to students prior to the term in which it is offered.
Anatomy/Physiology
This science course will be dealing with the structure and function of the human body and mechanisms for maintaining
homeostasis within it. It will include the study of cells, tissues, and the integumentary, skeletal, muscular and nervous
systems.
ENGLISH COURSES
Intensive Writing Course (Recommended for all incoming 9th grade and new students)
This course presents techniques developed by the Institute for Excellence in Writing. Along with a comprehensive review of
the 8th Grade Language Arts course (described previously), this course will cover topics such as summarizing a reference,
writing from pictures, research reports, creative writing, essay writing, expanded essay, persuasive essay, super essay,
personal essay, and literary critiques. Grammar and vocabulary will be included in the class.
Literary Analysis
Students will learn how to read, infer, analyze, and write about literature. Additionally, because literature has the power to
influence readers, this course seeks to teach students to recognize an author’s worldview and exercise discernment when
reading literature assignments. Course topics include: analytical techniques, literary elements, literary devices, and writing
genres. Students will study vocabulary and intensive writing skills to produce the basic essay, the expanded essay, the
persuasive essay, the super essay and the personal essay.
The Literary Analysis text seeks to build good character qualities while increasing the student’s enjoyment of good
literature. Leo Tolstoy, Nathaniel Hawthorne, O. Henry, and Guy de Maupassant are a few of the authors who will be
studied. Students also continue their study of grammar concepts, writing techniques, speech presentations, vocabulary,
reading comprehension, literary elements, writing genres, poetry, literary devices, and research writing, taken from the
aforementioned Institute for Excellence in Writing.
World Literature
Students will learn how to read, infer, analyze, and write about literature. Additionally, because literature has the power to
influence readers, this course seeks to teach students to recognize an author’s worldview and exercise discernment when
reading literature assignments. Course topics include: analytical techniques, literary elements, literary devices, and writing
genres. Students will study vocabulary and intensive writing skills to produce the basic essay, the expanded essay, the
persuasive essay, the super essay and the personal essay.
This course focuses on the writing of such famous authors as Dickens, Poe, Goethe, Tolstoy, and Hugo. Students also
continue their study of grammar concepts, writing techniques, speech presentations, vocabulary, reading comprehension,
literary elements, writing genres, poetry, literary devices, and research writing, taken from the aforementioned Institute for
Excellence in Writing.
American Literature
Students learn how to read, infer, analyze, and write about literature. Additionally, because literature has the power to
influence readers, this course seeks to teach students to recognize an author’s worldview and exercise discernment when
reading literature assignments. Course topics include: analytical techniques, literary elements, literary devices, and writing
genres. Students will study vocabulary and intensive writing skills to produce the basic essay, the expanded essay, the
persuasive essay, the super essay and the personal essay.
The American Literature text includes short stories, drama, poetry, and essays by some of America’s great preachers,
writers, authors, poets, statesmen, and scholars. Students also continue their study of grammar concepts, writing
techniques, speech presentations, vocabulary, reading comprehension, literary elements, writing genres, poetry, literary
devices, and research writing, taken from the aforementioned Institute for Excellence in Writing.
ELECTIVES
Foreign Language
Language courses are offered through our Online Academy. Additional fees apply.
Introduction to Microsoft Office (Practical Arts Credit)
The emphasis is on Computer Applications, with a concentration on Microsoft Word, Excel, Publisher, Access, and
PowerPoint. Students are also taught about computer hardware and peripherals, operating systems, and networks.
Keyboarding skills are emphasized.
Art Projects
Basic principles of composition, color, and two and three dimensional design will be explored. Students will have the
opportunity to work in a broad variety of media. Personal expression, creative techniques, critical analysis of artwork, and
art history are included. Media include: oil pastels, chalk pastels, colored pencils, etc. Famous artists and their work will be
examined with an eye towards appreciation. Advanced techniques using chalk pastels, charcoal, watercolor and acrylic
painting, and mixed media are also explored.
Healthy Living
This course is a study of all bodily systems. Disease and disease prevention are a primary focus.
This course will satisfy the health requirement for high school.
Other Electives
A wide variety of elective courses are available through our Online Academy. Additional fees apply.
New Jersey Minimum Requirements for a High School Diploma
English – 4 years
Physical Education/Health – 4 years
Math – 3 years (2009 begin with Algebra 1) (2010 begin with Geometry)
Science – 3 years
U.S. History – 2 years
World History – 1 year
Economics – ½ year
Foreign Language – 1 year (Two years recommended for college-bound students)
Art – 1 year
Practical Art – 1 year (Microsoft Office will satisfy this requirement)
Electives – 4 years
Total Credits – 24 ½ minimum required
Please note that all courses mentioned in this Course Information Brochure are subject to change based on availability and
interest.
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Updated: Sept. 13, 2011.
| The following files are listed for your convenience. View, download, and print them. You will need to have Adobe Acrobat Reader installed on your computer. 2011 to 2012 HASJ Schedule Registration form HASJ Scholarship Program form Parent-Student Handbook |