October 24, 2006

Dear Students and Parents:

Welcome to BIA! We are looking forward to a challenging and fulfilling year.

High school is a time in which you gain deeper knowledge about subjects with which you are already familiar, and explore new areas of knowledge and experience. In order to ensure that you gain depth of understanding as well as knowledge in new areas, we require that you take a certain number of credits in specific areas as well as choosing various electives that capture your own imagination and interest.

Our Academy offers a well-rounded selection of courses. We will begin each day in home room with character education. In addition to taking courses listed in our catalog, you may take courses at the University of Bridgeport or Housatonic Community College if you have good academic skills and special interests. If you need to meet a specific requirement to graduate and the course is not offered locally, you may also take a correspondence course. Community service is an integral part of the learning experience at BIA; as such, you are to complete 75 hours of community service as a graduation requirement.

Please read this catalog carefully. Our administration and faculty will continually check to make sure you are meeting your requirements. However, you must also take responsibility to understand what you must do in order to graduate from BIA.

God bless you and your family, and may each of you have a wonderful and exciting school year!

Sincerely,

Mrs. Nora Spurgin,

Principal

Academic Program

In order to prepare students for college, the academic program integrates cultural, scientific, artistic, and technological skills. The Academy provides pupils with a broad view of the world and of their place in it, as active and thoughtful citizens. Students are encouraged to explore many avenues of learning. Teachers seek to prepare them with solid academic and life skills for whatever personal and professional paths they may choose as an adult. University courses, as well as variety of high school classes, are offered. Efforts are made to bring all students to a basic level of technological literacy, so that they may become independent learners. At times, students may individualize their academic programs through distance learning and correspondence courses.

Academic Guidance & Evaluation

Academic guidance is provided for each student. Students are encouraged to make goals and work toward them strategically. Information on the SAT, ACT, and other college entrance tests, as well as material on applying to post-secondary institutions, is provided in the “College and Careers” class. This class provides information and guidance for all students to take these examinations. Sophomores are encouraged to take the PSAT. Upon matriculating, each new student is required to take diagnostic exams in English and Mathematics to determine his/her level of achievement. Academic transcripts, standardized test results, letters of recommendation from teachers, and medical evaluations must be provided for review in order to determine proper placement of each student. If a student has been dismissed from a previous school, parents must inform the principal and discuss the situation thoroughly prior to applying for admission. If records or information is knowingly withheld, it is grounds for subsequent dismissal.

Academic Evaluation Policy

Academic grades are awarded based on a 4-point scale and will reflect demonstrated mastery of the subject matter. During each school year, teachers will maintain a record of a student’s significant achievements to help effectively evaluate each student’s progress and development:

Content Grade Grading

Grades Points Scale

A 4.00 93-100% Outstanding

A- 3.7 90-92% Excellent

B+ 3.3 87-89% Very good

B 3.00 83-86% Good

B- 2.7 80-82% Satisfactory

C+ 2.3 77-79% Average +

C 2.00 73-76% Average

C- 1.7 70-72% Average - <

D+ 1.3 67-69% academic probation / needs improvement

D 1.00 63-66% academic probation / needs improvement

D- .7 60-62% academic probation / may risk failure of this class

F 0.0 Below 60% no credit awarded

Testing for Learning Disabilities

If learning disabilities are suspected, either the Principal or Vice-principal will inform the parents, and appropriate testing possibilities will be discussed and explored with the public school department. If the parent(s) or guardian(s) want to hire a qualified professional to evaluate the student’s learning disabilities, then it is at the parents’ cost.

Minimum Graduation Requirements

In order to graduate, the minimum requirements for graduation are as follows:

English 4 credits

History and Government 3 credits

Mathematics 3 credits

Science 3 credits

Foreign Language 2 credits

Physical Education 2 credits

Health .5 credits

Computer Science/Graphic Arts .5 credits

Elective Courses 4 credits

Total Credits 22 credits

Definition of Credit

One credit is based on completion of a course of study for meeting 200 minutes per week for 36 weeks, which equals one full year of study. One half credit is based on completion of a semester course of study for 200 minutes per week for 18 weeks or 100 minutes per week for 36 weeks.

Credit for Community Service

Each student is required to complete 75 hours of community service as a graduation requirement. It is strongly recommended that students complete 25 hours of service each year, beginning in freshman year. Students may complete their community service at the location of their choice. In order to assist those not familiar with the area, the office has a list of agencies in need of volunteers. Students must have site supervisors sign off on their volunteer hours. Community Service Forms are available in the office.

Credit for Physical Education and Martial Arts

Students are required to participate in physical education, which includes team sports, individual sports and martial arts. These activities take place each semester for two hours a week (.25 credits per semester). In addition, students are encouraged to participate in various other co-curricular sports.

The Core Curriculum

Grade 9

World Literature I

World Civilizations I

Earth Science

Algebra I or Geometry*

Physical Education and Martial Arts

Introduction to Computers

Foreign Language/Electives

Grade 10

World Literature II & Composition

World Civilizations II

Geometry and/or Algebra II*

Biology

Computer Networking and Graphics

Physical Education

Foreign Language/Electives

Grade 11

American Literature or American Short Stories

Algebra II or Pre-calculus*

Physics

Health

US History

College and Careers

Physical Education

Electives

Grade 12

British Literature or Contemporary Literature

American Government

Advanced Integrated Math or Calculus*

Science or social science elective

Physical Education and Martial Arts

Electives, Internship, or optional Senior Project

*Testing and prerequisites will determine the appropriate math and English placement for each student

Note: Advanced students will be offered the opportunity to take courses at the University of Bridgeport and Housatonic Community College, but each student must buy his/her own books and pay a fee of $ 200 for each and every university course taken.

Transfer Credit and Credit for CLEP tests

With a grade of C or higher, credit will be accepted for transfer students from other high school institutions and from recognized home school and distance learning programs. Credits may be given for any course in lieu of class time by passing comprehensive exams in the subject. CLEP examination results, community college courses, distance learning courses, independent study or university courses may also be considered in fulfilling high school credit.

Courses

Computer Science

Introduction to Computers, 1 credit

This course will offer introductory level, hands-on computer lab training. It starts with lessons about primal PC, network systems and keyboarding practice, and it advances to Microsoft application software for documentation, spreadsheet, and database practice. Graphic application software and presentation software lessons will be provided. Spring semester will be spent learning internet website designing and programming JAVA and Visual Basic programming. Mini projects and term projects to design Graphics, designing website will be assigned. Students will have practice making presentations. With the accumulation of computer skills, BIA school website will be constructed as cooperative projects.

Computer Graphics, .5 credits

This course is the intermediate course of hands-on computer lab training designed for students who have taken Introduction to Computing course or equivalent courses. It covers software application training of spreadsheet, and relational database, database programming using PHP. Advanced training of HTML and Visual Basic Programming are introduced. Students will learn movie editing using diminutive equipment and MS Movie Maker, and creating videos using the software as a group project. Students will understand the concept of software applications and the procedure of Website production and Movie Editing through the projects. Group cooperation will be essential for the project progress.

Advanced computer Graphics, .5 credits

Prerequisite: Introduction to Computer Course or permission from Instructor, fundamental understanding of PC-Network structure is required.

This course is hands-on, computer lab training. It covers training of application software learned in the introduction course, and the extensive work of computer graphics, web designing and web programming, and video editing and computer repair. Students will design and/or program BIA website using HTML. Students will learn the process of software applications and website amd video production. Each student will be assigned an individual project. Group cooperation and the ability to self-control to manage projects are essential for the success of the course.

Electives

Art, .25 (1 semester)

This is an introductory art course intended to expose students the study of lines and shapes. Students will explore drawing, painting, color and perspective, utilizing a variety of materials and media.

College and Careers, .25 credits (1 semester)

This course offers a survey of colleges and careers, practical skills for completing college applications, applying for scholarships, taking SAT and PSAT tests, writing application essays, resume writing and interviewing skills.

Yearbook, .25 credits (1 semester)

This hands-on class offers students the opportunity to create a publication from start to finish. Students are solely responsible for the digital production, the group-imposed deadlines and the journalism and photography that is used in the publication.

Ceramics, .25 (1 semester)

This course meets once a week in the University of Bridgeport ceramics studio. Students learn to work on the pottery wheel as well as the basics of shaping, glazing, and firing pottery. (There is a materials fee for this course.)

Mural Painting, .25 credits (1 semester)

This course is a hands-on experience on mural techniques. Students learn the technique of using a grid to execute the mural and how to mix pigments in order to reach a desired color. Plan composition, design and execution of the mural are stressed.

Musical Theatre, .25 (1 semester)

Students in this course stage a full production. Students act, create sets, and learn stage production. Previous productions include The Wiz,, Grease, Guys and Dolls and an original work based on three international fairy tales.

English

World Literature and Composition I, 1 credit

This course uses classic global literature as a bridge to teaching skills mastery: critical thinking and reading, writing, grammar, vocabulary, listening, and speaking with clarity. Diagnostic tests are administered to determine the student's comprehension level and progress is charted throughout the school year.

Students will develop their ability to write clearly in a variety of styles, ranging from essays to journalism to creative writing. Reading choices will include plays, short stories, novels, poems and essays in all styles. Students will read both teacher-selected and self-selected novels.

World Literature and Composition II, 1 credit

This course uses classic global literature as a bridge to teaching skills mastery: critical reading, writing and grammar, vocabulary, listening, and speaking with clarity. Diagnostic tests are administered to determine the student's comprehension level, and progress is charted throughout the school year.

In order to fully engage the student, a diverse methodology is incorporated into the daily lessons: oral interpretation, discussion groups, art transparencies, literary and writing software, group projects, interactive direct instruction and multi-media presentations. There is a special focus on themes ranging from self-identify to national identity to the nature of war and peace and their impact on teens. Themes vary each year.

American Literature and Composition, 1 credit

Students study some of the best examples of American literature, including novels, short stories, essays, poems, and plays. They read the works of and write about American literary greats from Nathaniel Hawthorne to Arthur Miller, Mark Twain to Maya Angelou. They consider the works of major American authors in their social, political and historical contexts.

This introduction to American literature emphasizes reading and writing skills. Students learn to edit and revise compositions. Focus is placed on the development and understanding of American literature, highlighting writing papers on each of the themes studied and on various novels and short stories. Issues of importance to the American experience will be regularly addressed.

British Literature and Composition, 1 credit

This course, primarily for seniors or advanced juniors, uses British literature through the ages as well as literature from around the world to help students understand how culture, history and communication all interact. Students will write a major research paper and present a multimedia project. The course examines the roots of literature in the English language, the works and impact of William Shakespeare, the impact on colonialism on non-English people and the range of writing styles. Students are expected to work on maturing their own “writing voice”, and to become critical consumers of the written, spoken, visual and electronic media.

American Short Stories, 1 credit

This course will familiarize the student with the genre of the American Short Story and its authors by providing a concise historical background starting from the 1920s to the 1990s in conjunction with the stories themselves. Next to the collection of short stories students will read two novels that address the many issues most of the American short story writers deal with such as racism, immigration, the “American Dream,” and various other topics familiar to Americans. To bring some of the readings to life, movies and film-clips will help foster an environment of free discussion.

English Language Learner (ELL) courses

The English as a Second Language Program is based on a series of Intensive English courses for the student whose limited English fluency inhibits his or her ability to perform at an optimum level in mainstream high school English speech and writing. The focus is on the four language skills of reading, writing, speaking and listening with attention given to the grammar and structure of the English language. The prospective candidate should have a good academic record in his/her first language and a willing attitude to experience and understand culture as communicated in the English language.

ELL Introductory Grammar and Vocabulary, 1 credit

This is designed as a beginner’s level English grammar course, focusing on verb tenses, word order, parts of speech, sentence structure and grammatical points related to the foregoing, as well as building the students’ use of basic vocabulary through the grammar text and its accompanying workbook.

ELL Introductory Reading and Literature, 1 credit

This is designed as a beginner’s level reading course. Initially, a beginning reader is used to establish basic reading skills, as well as augment the range of vocabulary. Midway into the course, a beginner’s level short story literature text is introduced, encouraging students to understand human experience across time and space, and to introduce them to the specialized language of literary texts. Conversational and listening skills are important as students are encouraged to discuss the readings intelligently.

Note: Students will also engage in a graded reading program during which simplified and shortened versions of certain classical or well-known novels and short stories will be read.

ELL Introductory US History, 1 credit

This ELL course covers American history, following the content in the mainstream US History course. A low vocabulary/rich content text is used.

ELL General Science, 1 credit

This ELL course is designed to introduce students to vocabulary and concepts taught in mainstream science classes. It focuses on studying the vocabulary of science through rich text and low vocabulary text books and interesting hands-on activities. It covers topic in life science, physical science and earth science.

ELL Intermediate US History, 1 credit

This course follows the content in the mainstream US History course. Students not quite ready for the rigor of the mainstream US History course, are placed into Intermediate US History. Students who complete this course are not expected to retake US History.

ELL Intermediate Reading and Literature, 1 credit

Students will read short stories by well-know writers. Emphasis is placed on reading out-loud as well as individual reading at home. The stories are divided into parts with comprehension questions and practice exercises using new language acquired and grammar presented. Students will practice drawing conclusions, making predictions and comparing and contrasting characters in stories. They will also practice finding the main idea, summarizing and making inferences in short stories.

ELL Advanced Literature, 1 credit

The ELL Advance Literature course is as described in the intermediate literature course; however, advanced literature students are mainstreaming in all other high school classes. More emphasis is placed on inferring meaning and studying the deeper meaning of the short stories studied. In addition to the literature textbooks used, class time is also focused on improving reading comprehension of specialized texts; literature, social studies, science and mathematics. Students are expected to be able to produce writing of a higher standard than the intermediate class.

ELL Algebra I, 1 credit

This class introduces the vocabulary of math in a content rich environment. The purpose of the class is for ELL students to prepare for regular course work in Geometry, Algebra II, and Pre-Calculus. All topics of Algebra I are covered in fall semester. In the spring semester, the concepts of algebraic expressions and equations are introduced, and preparation for geometry is made. The students who successfully complete this course are not expected to repeat the mainstream Algebra I course.

The following topics are covered in Algebra I: algebraic expressions and integers, solving one-step equations and inequalities, decimals and equations, factors, fractions, and exponents, operations with fractions, rations, proportions, and percents, solving equations and inequalities, linear functions and graphing, area and volumes, right triangles in algebra, data analysis and probabilities, nonlinear functions, and polynomials

History and Government

World Civilization I, 1 credit

This survey course begins with ancient Samaria and ends with the late Middle Ages. The contributions and cultures of various ancient and medieval civilizations are highlighted. An integral part of the course will be readings from primary sources to complement the textbook.

Students will examine the world in the context of specific times and places. During each historical period the focus will be on vital political, economic, intellectual, geographic, social, cultural and religious themes.

World Civilization II, 1 credit

Modern World History covers the period from the Renaissance through the present. The course introduces students to the cultures, people and events that have shaped the modern world.

As an introductory course students will be introduced to global history from early modern times including an investigation of how various cultures were influenced by historical events. The course traces the development of humankind, the making of nations, international relations, and the values, traditions and cultures of various civilizations, including Europe, Asia, Africa and the Middle East.

U.S. History, 1 credit

This course begins with the arrival of the first English colonists in 1607 and follows the emergence of America as the supreme Western power in this century. Students study America’s political, social, economic and religious beliefs, practices and institutions.

Consideration is given to the unique conditions that characterize American life: racial, ethnic and religious diversity; geographic mobility; and immigration. Students develop their historical understanding, improve their writing and research skills, understand how historical events and people are variously interpreted and are exposed to debate as a way of learning.

American Government and Citizenship, 1 credit

Pre-requisite: U.S. History, Modern World History, or instructor’s permission.

This class explores the development of the American political system from its colonial origins to the present day on the national, state and local level. The following topics are covered by the course: the origins of constitutional republics, fundamental principles of the American government, separation of powers, checks and balances, federalism, division of powers, Congress, the legislative process, the President, the bureaucracy and cabinet departments, the Constitution, the Supreme Court, various court systems, civil liberties, foreign policy, national defense, finances, political parties, interest groups, voter behavior, citizenship and comparative political and economic systems.

Mathematics

Algebra I, 1 credit

This course will cover the State of Connecticut’s Standards for a first year high school algebra course. The objective of this class is to give students knowledge of variables, functions, solving linear equations and inequalities, graphing linear equations, systems of equations and inequalities, exponents and exponential functions, factoring polynomials, quadratic functions and equations, radical expressions and equations, rational expressions and functions.

Geometry, 1 credit

This course will cover the State of Connecticut’s Standards for a high school geometry course. The objectives of this class are to give the student knowledge of Euclidean Geometry. The student will learn inductive and deductive reasoning. The student will understand the concepts of parallel, perpendicular lines, congruency of lines, angles, and triangles. Students will learn how to construct midpoint and bisection of lines and angles. Students will understand similarity and quadrilaterals, trigonometric functions, transformations, and area and volume formulas.

Algebra II, 1 credit

This course will cover the State of Connecticut’s Standards for a second year high school algebra course. The objective of this class is to give students knowledge of algebraic expressions, functions, equations, graphs, linear systems, matrices, quadratic equations, polynomials, radical functions and rational exponents, logarithmic functions, rational functions, conics and translations, sequences and series, statistics, probability, trigonometric functions

Statistics, 1 credit

This course will cover the State of Connecticut’s Standards for high school statistics course. The objective of this class is to give students knowledge of collecting and organizing data. Students will be able to graph data and interpret the results of the graphs. The student will gain basic knowledge of probability techniques, learn different discrete probability distributions such as binomial and normal, set up confidence intervals, hypothesis test with one and two samples, understand correlation and linear regression models and chi-square and F-Distribution tests.

Pre-Calculus, 1 credit

This course will cover the State of Connecticut’s Standards for a high school pre-calculus course. The objective of this class is to give students knowledge of functions and graphs, modeling and finding the zeros of polynomials, exponential, logistic and logarithmic functions. The student will be exposed to trigonometric functions, identities and applications of trigonometry. The student will solve systems of equations; learn matrices, conics, discrete math and an introduction to limits, derivatives and integration.

Modern Languages

Korean I and II

Korean I and II are designed to help students develop the five language competencies, speaking, listening, reading, writing, and cultural knowledge necessary for the introductory and intermediate level Korean proficiency.

Spanish I and II

Introductory and intermediate Spanish course work is designed to familiarize the students with Spanish vocabulary, grammar, and culture. Students will practice speaking, listening, reading and writing Spanish. Pronunciation, aural comprehension and conversation are practiced daily.

Japanese I and II

Japanese I and II are designed to help students develop the five language competencies, speaking, listening, reading, writing, and cultural knowledge necessary for the introductory and intermediate level Japanese proficiency.

*Students may take other languages through courses offered by either the University of Bridgeport or Housatonic Community College.

Physical Education

Physical Education, .5 credits

The emphasis in the physical education program is on improving the fitness levels and refinement of skills in various sports. More importantly, it is to instill the concepts and attitudes of sportsmanship and working together as one unit in team activities.

Martial Arts, .5 credits

This course introduces the student to the martial arts training of Tae Kwon Do. The goal is the unity of mind and body, self-discipline through controlling the mind to release inner power with the mental training. At the point that the body feels sore and tired, it is that moment to train to push for the limit to attain indomitable spiritual power. Other aspects of training are to develop the sense of politeness, respect and responsibility. Students will be graded on their speed, power, coordination, and flexibility.

Science

Earth Science, 1 credit

Through the practice of the scientific method, students will be exposed to useful knowledge in selected areas including our planet’s structure and dynamics. Oceanography, meteorology and astronomy will be investigated on an introductory level. Students will gain an appreciation for protecting our environment through hands-on experience. Special emphasis in this course will be placed on understanding Plate Tectonics as it relates to earthquakes, volcanoes and mountain building.

Biology with lab, 1 credit

This course provides an introduction to the study of life and living things. Topics include cell theory and the diversity, distribution and interaction of living things. Students learn the basics of chemistry and how it relates to life, as well as how life maintains itself. Special emphasis is placed upon the underlying importance of DNA to all aspects of life and inheritance. In order to allow students to make observations, laboratory work is correlated with classroom studies; a culminating lab project is the classic frog dissection.

Physics, 1 credit

This course is an introduction to physics, the study of matter and energy and their various forms and applications. Students will gain an understanding of the physical laws and principles that influence every aspect of our lives and utilize the scientific method and systematic observation as approaches to problem solving. The course is a conceptual approach to physics and emphasizes application in every day life, without as much mathematical emphasis as a traditional physics course.

Health and Human Biology, 1 credit

This course provides students with the skills necessary for healthful living. It offers information on topics that students need to know to make sound decisions regarding health. Topics include mental, physical and emotional health, diet and nutrition, safety and emergency procedures, CPR and first-aid, AIDS and STDs, drugs and alcohol, disease prevention and community health. The course presents a holistic approach to wellness.

*Additional science courses, including chemistry, are available at the University of Bridgeport and Housatonic Community College.